Hello All,
Just wondering if Wegovy is covered yet under Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance or is there some way I can get it covered?
Started off on Wegovy of January 2023 and it was not covered by my insurance at that time so had to pay $800 twice and that was with the Wegovy savings card. This was for a month’s supply.
My doctor then switched me to Ozempic in March 2023 which my insurance did cover and only had to pay a little over $100 out of pocket.
The problem I face now is you cannot get on Ozempic unless you are pre authorized and a diabetic. I did have bloodwork done which shows I am insulin resistant, leptin resistant and my triglycerides are high.
Currently on Zepbound 7.5mg and I am not seeing ANY results. My doctor started me off at 2.5 then 5 and now I just finished my last dose of the 7.5. I’ve been on Zepbound for about 4 months now and I know certain medications take time, but when I was on Ozempic I was able to lose over 30 pounds by then.
It’s really a shame because I really did feel good about myself. The only downside with Ozempic was dealing with the nausea.
If anyone knows if Wegovy is covered fully or even partially through Blue Cross Blue Shield please let me know. Or if there is any way to get Wegovy cheaper than $800 a month!
Maybe there is a way I can have my doctor advocate for me about my test results and possibly get me back on Ozempic?
If not I will probably have to switch doctors since I can tell and see what works best for my body and I should not have to be paying out of pocket for stuff that does not work.
Thanks!

I’ve had a few people ask me how to play, and this is intended as a basics guide and some of my personal thoughts on the subject. Anybody who wants can butt in with their experiences as well, but I wanted to get this up so I don’t lose it.
Let’s start with the very basics. Each game you select a total of 4 patrons which inform what card suites are available to you and your opponent. Finding the right decks for you is essential to your success. Not every deck clicks the same for everyone.
Know every deck. This comes with practice, but by knowing the decks you know the probable strategies your opponent wishes to employ. If he picks Hermaeus Mora, he’s going fast. If he picks Raj he’s going to make you suffer etc
Don’t clutter your deck. Pick only what you need. If you’re stumped, just upgrade a coin to a 2 coin at the bank. You could have amazing cards, but if you only get to play them once every 5 hands, you’re probably not going anywhere. You want a fast deck cycle time. That’s how often you can expect to play your whole deck. As an example your starting deck has a cycle time of 2 turns.
When possible try to stick to only building a deck of 1 or 2 colors. These cards have synergies with their suite so the more you stack your deck with a given suite, the more likely your cards will “do the cool thing”.
Gold allows you to buy cards. You can also spend it at a couple different patrons.
Power allows you to kill opposing agents, and at the end of the turn is converted into prestige.
Prestige is the “Win” condition. Less complicated than the others.
Crow (Purple) is the best all around deck. If he’s in the shop, buy purple. You do NOT want your opponent to build a deck of him. That’s gold, power, AND draw. Nasty stuff. If you’re a true beginner, focus on Crow and hope for the best. My advice? Don’t use his patron ability unless you’ve got a FAT pile of gold (at least 10+). Prevents you locking yourself out of the ability. Pairs well with gold generating decks like Hlaalu or Rhajiin.
Pelin (Red) is straightforward power gain with some minor attention to defensive agents. A good deck, and pairs very well with patrons who SPEND power such as Red Eagle (Black) and Mora (Dark Green).
Hlaalu (Gold) is the ultimate gold generator. Focus is on gaining high value cards or simply massive gold piles (excellent strat to pair with Crow patron). The real trick with this patron is to continually pare down junk cards after play so you can keep your cycle time low. Otherwise it’s a noob trap that bloats the deck.
Psijiic (Blue) focus is on deck manipulation by SKIPPING your junk cards. Decent gold gain. Patron is a decent emergency anti agent button. Not my favorite but that’s just because his players tend to take forever haha
Ansei (Light Green) is focused on choice and versatility. Most of his cards let you choose the effect, tailoring to your need. Can also recycle old cards back to top of draw. Not my favorite. I prefer more pointed win conditions.
Red Eagle (Black) is another power deck, but also focused on shrinking your deck. I like to pair him with chain heavy decks like Crow or Mora because his patron helps you push out just one more when you’re on the edge of a monster turn.
Orgnum (Light Blue) is focused first and foremost on prestige gain directly. Almost always turns into a match of “who can click the patron the most” because you can’t afford to let your opponent spam it. I pair it with Hlaalu because it has some cards that can give you cards for free. You can spend gold at the patron and use the free card for more merchant cards. Not a favorite deck.
Almalexia (Dark Blue) is about controlling the opponents cards and tossing your own cards for synergies. Complex but versatile. Good but not a favorite.
Druid (Super Light Green) is all about agent spam. I hate him lol. Can also control the shop by spending power.
Rhajiin (Orange) is focused on gold gain, but MOSTLY trolling. Excellent at killing agents, reducing prestige, cluttering decks, and generally slowing down your opponent. It’s a good deck but if both players are good at him it makes games take ages.
Hermaeus Mora (Dark Green) is my favorite. He focuses on accelerationism. He does a lot. He can prune your deck, generate gold and especially power (at ludicrous rates). The catch is that each card you play helps your opponent. This means you have to COMMIT to a Hermy deck or you’re just handing free resources to your opponent. Patron ability can spend a little power to hand a card to both players (can be great to use tactically such as if it’s a card that helps you but hurts them. Or if you’re fighting over crow cards and you’re out of gold… sometimes it’s better to make sure you both get it rather than only them). Leads to fast games.

Hi, everyone! This is my first time creating post because I don’t know where to talk.
I’m 24 F. Last year, I was in almost perfect relationship that people see I’m so happy. My parents and friends are really supportive of my romantic relationship. I knew him from dating app. He’s (24 M) a last year uni student just like me that’s why we really get along together. He really like perfect guy, he would pick me up at 7 am to go to work together, and accompany me when my dad sick.
One of his friend, back then warning me that he would be totally different 100% change, if he’s at the lowest point in life. But all other of his friend said I should feel lucky to have him because he’s kind and loyal. At first, it made me confused but then slowly I see the truth.
Whenever we’re in argument and fight, he would order me to hide it from his friends. I’m a sarcastic person, I know my words sometimes hurt. When I give sarcastic jokes to my ex, he would pinch me until black and blue. If I said a joke with something sarcastic and bad, he’s threatening me that he will pinch me many times and I should be silenced. Luckily, I took a picture of his pinch on my thigh and send it to him. He said sorry but then he told me, I shouldn’t overreact to it because the bruise only stay for 4 days, but in fact it stayed for 15 days.
So sad, I didn’t count this as physical abuse because I just think maybe he’s also joking too. But, is it not equal my sarcastic joke with physical jokes? I don’t realize it until after 5 months of break up that it’s physical abuse after my friend point that out.
He’s also yelling at me in the supermarket because I didn’t listen to him properly. I asked him to apologize but he thought, I deserved it.
Context: We’re going to supermarket to see some discounted chicken. He saw the chicken, but at that time I said to him, I wanted to see some discount on underwear. I feel that I already said to him, but it turns out he’s focusing to much on chicken and he didn’t pay attention to it. I know it my mistake. I know that at that time, he’s tired after work. But he really drag my hand and yell at me in public. I said to him, I didn’t deserve to be treated that way but he still said I deserved it.
He’s guiltripping me about my past regarding my virginity. Yes, it’s his first time with me. But after, we broke up, turned out he slept with several girl from dating app. (I chose to be friend with him after break up, but know we blocked each other).
Last before he blocked me, he said he’s already have a girlfriend and his new girlfriend in her first time relationship and still virgin.
It haunts me so bad. My past history of this abusive relationship, hinder me to dating again. I don’t want to go back with my ex, I want to start new romantic relationship. However, I can’t get over all the abuse that I had because I’m afraid I get abuse relationship in the future. (He guilttrip me again that no guy wants me). I feel like, I get sabotage by that thinking.
Is any of you are survivor of abusive relationship, how do you guys overcome it and start a new relationship?

I'm mostly asking for reinforcements, honestly. I know my reasons are solid.
TLDR: see title. wife of a very short time was seeing a massage therapist / former lover behind my back. is that alone enough reason for me to leave her?
I met someone last year in August. It was an intense courtship, we moved in together in December and married at the courthouse on Valentine's day. Now it's not even June, and already I have enough reason to pack up and go. There are several other issues, but there was one that was the last straw.
That was how after we'd only been married about two months, she arranged for a private massage therapist to come to our house. He was going to come while I was at work, I only heard about it when he had to reschedule for a time when I might be home. She described him just as 'this guy'. LONG story short, several weeks later, she eventually admitted (after lying about it, at first) that he wasn't just a good friend but also a former lover! From "many years ago", sure, but they began as dating, had sex, broke it off and became friends. I was absolutely livid. Nearly divorced her. She cried, apologized, begged me not to go. I forgave her and we stayed together.
'Many' in this circumstance is maximum 7, by the way. That's when she moved here originally.
Then I realized when reading my journal and looking at old messages; he'd come to her house before. Way back after we'd only been dating a couple months - but were definitely exclusive - I came over one afternoon and there was a guy on her block loading a massage table into his car. He had asked me to come a bit later, was taking a shower - among other signs. It was clear that he'd been there to see her. She has few neighbors and all of them are very poor (this is in Mexico), they couldn't afford it. Once I jogged my memory enough, I realized it was the same guy. Same car, same bag, same table. I had asked her about it that day, wasn't upset, just curious. She got mad at me for asking and called it an 'accusation'.
She still hasn't admitted that she was having him over back then. I no longer trust her at all, and I'm assuming they were probably doing more than professional massages. (They couldn't have been professional, by the way. All massage therapists learn in their first term of school about ethics, and how you should never take on a client you've had a relationship with, especially involving sex, before.)
So, now, I've found an apartment and am planning on moving June 1st. She can't afford the house we're in, but she has family on the US side (we're in a border town) who can help. What really sucks is that she has to take care of her disabled mother who will be recovering from surgery. I'm going to pay the rent for June at this place and my new apartment, just to help her out.
I keep trying to remind myself that I'm being kinder about this than I have to be. What she did was cheating. It doesn't matter if there was no sex or kissing, or even romance. She did something she knew I would be uncomfortable with, multiple times, lied about it, and still is.
There are multiple other reasons, but those issues alone were manageable. I'm just looking for some backup on if this issue alone is enough reason to break it off and go. My reasoning is that since she's refusing to come clean and be honest, after all this, means that I shouldn't trust her in the future. You can't have true love without trust, and it's a shaky bridge made of thin ice I shouldn't cross. I need to get out before this goes any further, definitely before we have a child.
So, what do you think? Am I right, or should I just get over it and move on.

disclaimer: some points may be speculations
If you have played shining Nikki, you would be familiar with the overall concept of designer reflections. They all have a set attribute/type they excel at and boost your styling battle score. Over at infinity Nikki we have a similar system. The official name in english is yet to be announced, so for the sake of discussion I will just call it effect(s)
You can equip a total of 3 effects- one for the head area, the other for hands and last but not least for the feet area. Aside from the stunning visual effects they are mostly used for styling battles. After you're done dressing up you get to equip one for each area, which makes it a total of 3 bonus effects in use. Even outside of battling you can put them on for aesthetic purposes and match them with your outfit for fun.
Each effect has different grades(up to 5 stars for now) and attributes they excel at. Based on this clip alone, I can assume that there's a total of 6 tiers- the more unlocked the better. The types seem the same as in shining Nikki (green, purple, pink, blue, yellow as in cool, sexy, fresh etc) so 5 tiers in total. the last tier (6) seems to be the rainbow colored one. there are no exact details for the exact powebenefits of the last tier but it seems like with each tier you increase the power for individual attributes and overall stats. Since each type represents a different color you get to play around and pick a color of your choice, which makes it even more fitting when styling different clothes and colors together.
I have seen a variety of effects- from flowers to butterfly's, water droplets and a lot of glitter. I can't wait to see what kind of effects we can get further down the line.
https://reddit.com/link/1cslui1/video/0ij19s5rjl0d1/player

So I recently got a message from someone on Psych Today and the way that this person worded things kind of set off red flags and I was wondered what others thought on this are.
"I had a couple questions about your services! Would you be able to tell me how much my insurance would cover, are you able to diagnose, and are you able to write ESA letters? Thanks so much in advance!"
Now I will write ESA letters I've wrote a couple them for a couple clients but I have to know the clients and have good rapport with them. It just seemed off to me that they mentioned it first thing off the bat. Would love ya'lls thoughts on this.

Hello all I hope you all are having the best time of your life.

I would like to ask for your assistance here, but first, it might be worthy to share a little bit of my walk.
Professionally I always felt lost and really distant from where I would like to be. I graduated in laws in my country, and since I moved to the US 12 years ago, I never really pursued anything in this area.
Since my start in America, I have been working on logistics. An office job, that paid fairly well, however I always felt miserable, depressed, anxious, and lacking directions, purpose.
I was fired past year, and have not been looking for another position in this ever since. My guts were telling me that this was just not what I should do (I had a huge burnout, was feeling sick in getting back to a corporate position. Furthermore, I had a little savings that allowed me to support myself in this “sabbatical” time – I am really blessed and thankful to have been able to take this time off to take care of my mental health).
Moving forward to these days, I always had an old desire of opening my own business. All pros and cons, I wanted to be my own boss, there was no better time to do it, so I decided to pull the trigger and follow some of my passions. I moved out of my comfort zone, embracing the unknown, and opened a handyman business, all at 43 years young.
Previously, while corporate working, I felt miserable, now I feel invigorated with all the possibilities (I know is not all roses, but what in life is?).
I am at the very beginning of my journey, and getting directions can be quite overwhelming. So many questions… Looking online get me some answers, which brings to even more questions…
I tried to organize in topics, because my brain works better that way (and this helps keeping my ADHD at bay and I don’t lose myself in an "analysis paralysis" too often, neither get too distracted). =D
This is my scenario, to provide some context:
· I live in Miami, FL
· License: It is not mandatory for small jobs, but my goal is to provide a high level of professionalism, integrity, and quality workmanship so I am going to invest in getting licenses and certifications;
· Experience: I am able to tackle main handyman activities with ease (furniture assembly, minor repairs in drywall, doors, install light fixtures, blinds and so on), but I know I still have lots to learn.
· Company Structure: as of now, I have the following:
o LLC open and running;
o Insurance for liability has been brough;
o Business phone number;
o Online presence: I have a website domain bought and social media profiles created (all these need to be developed).
o Software:
§ QuickBooks: I have acquired QuickBooks for financing, and I am thinking in having a software for operations (such as Jobber or Markate). Since I am in the very beginning of my journey, it seems that this could be redundant. QuickBooks has the possibility of sending invoices and, this it might be all I need for now, because I really don’t have volume to justify having an operations app (since I am still working in building up my clientele). On the other hand, it would be nice to have all system set up since the very beginning. Thoughts?
I have the following “bullets” to tackle for now:
1. Financial aid: Do you have any suggestion on banking and other financial institutions (private or governmental) for loans, grants, etc.?
2. Pricing: I was always an employee, and now I run a business, with overhead costs to cover. My “old” mentality could prevent me from charging a fair price for my work (I might feel that I am charging too much for what I am doing). Have you even been through this? What did you do? While I am still building my expertise in pricing, I have been relying on the following assistance:
a. Homewyse: I have been using it for pricing reference, but, honestly, it seems that sometimes it is out of proportion its pricing seems too expensive sometimes;
b. ChatGPT: I have been using for pricing assistance;
3. Mentorship: have you ever had a mentor to help honing your skills in not only how to be a better Handyman, but also a better Businessman? If yes, where did you look for assistance? Did you pay?
I know that this is a huge topic and maybe too much to ask, but I would really appreciate all thoughts. What would be the best piece of advice you could give to your younger self on these matters?
Eventually, as my expertise grows, I will pay back the community 10 times fold, trying to help as much as I can. Because that’s who I am.
Thank you all in advance.

Blue Streak: I got arrested for trying to streak on it
Cedar Creek Mine Ride: There's nothing in the shed
Corkscrew: There's no wine bottle to open.
GateKeeper: Named after what thoosies do best
Gemini: My ex's sign
Iron Dragon: The only coaster Cedar Point has been willing to build another coaster over top of…and now they’ve done it twice
Magnum XL-200: Inconsistent experience, You only get hit by a fish when the ride is running really well
Maverick: "Attention guests in the queue, Maverick is currently experiencing a temporary technical delay. We are unsure of when the ride will resume operation at this time. You are welcome to remain waiting in line, or you may leave the queue to go elsewhere, but please be aware that by doing so you will be forfeiting your current spot in the queue. Thank you for your patience."
Millennium Force: It’s become so overrated that it’s so underrated that it’s so overrated that it’s so underrated … (I’m having a stroke)
Raptor: “I kicked this guy”
Rougarou:
Steel Vengeance:
Top Thrill 2:
Valravn:
Wild Mouse:
Wilderness Run:
Woodstock Express:

I have a DCF (cuben fiber) Mountain Laurel Designs Supermid for sale, with included DCF innernet. 37oz, and the lightest that I can find true 4 person sized ultralight double walled tent.
Pics and Verification:
https://imgur.com/a/3OwU9jc
Would be very comfortable for 3, and... cavernous for 2. Very storm worthy pyramid design, and 2024 4 person ultralight tent winner by outdoor gear lab. Pitching is a breeze since its a square shape and 4 main guyouts (minimum 4 stakes though can go to 8 or even 12 if desired for the other side guyouts).
Also included is a made to order Ruta Locura 66" pole, brand new. I usually just used 2 trekking poles lashed together with either cut up bike tube strips or ski straps.
Plus...I am including a custom made double thick polycryo ground cloth, with adjustable guyouts. This also helps with pitching, since you can stake out the cloth, which is see through so you can make sure the ground is clear. The tent then uses those same stakes for pitching! Groundcloth won't blow away in the wind either!
I have also switched out the guylines for Lawson reflective wire, and added long guyouts for the side panels, also from Lawson (also color coded...red front, green side, blue back).
Comes from a pet and smoke free home. Only used on overnights or shorter trips with the family. The DCF is in excellent condition....no holes or tears that I can find and I checked thoroughly. I did accidentally catch the innernet mesh once and made 2 small tears that I patched with tenacious tape on both sides, and a micro hole that I also taped both sides. Thats the only blemish on the tent.
I will make sure that the tent is packed very well in a sturdy box with packing material to make sure that it gets to you safely.
Mountain Laurel Designs sells the supermid for $885 + $395 for innernet + $52 pole + $13 shipping = $1345.
I am selling for $850 $775 shipped free!
Just let me know if you have any questions.

I asked Gemini if I should keep my current skis or add a new pair next season.
I'm looking for recommendations for a new set of skis. I've been skiing for 10 years but only ski 5-10 days per season. I think I'm an "intermediate" skier — I'm comfortable on all but the steepest blue runs at Palisades, and can complete easier black runs, but I'm still working on improving my technique. Since I ski in Tahoe, the snow tends to be heaver and in the afternoon can turn cruddy. I start to lose confidence when I'm going too fast or when the conditions get choppy. My current skis are K2 Mindbender 85s, which have a width of 85mm. They perform well on milder slopes, but I'm wondering if skis that are wider, heavier, and/or stiffer would increase my confidence and ability. Specifically I was looking at the Elan Ripstick 96 and the K2 Mindbender 96C. Would either of those be an improvement for me, or should I stick with my current skis for another season?
Absolutely! It sounds like you're ready for an upgrade in your skis to better match your evolving skill level and the challenging conditions you encounter at Palisades Tahoe.
Both the Elan Ripstick 96 and the K2 Mindbender 96C are excellent choices for skiers like you, looking to bridge the gap between intermediate and advanced terrain while still maintaining confidence and control in variable snow.
Elan Ripstick 96: Known for its playful and versatile nature, the Ripstick 96 excels in both soft snow and on groomed runs. Its unique Amphibio profile combines camber underfoot for edge grip with rocker in the tip and tail for easy turn initiation and float in powder. This ski will feel more nimble and forgiving than your current Mindbender 85s, making it easier to navigate through choppy snow and crud.
K2 Mindbender 96C: This ski offers a balanced blend of performance and playfulness. It features a carbon weave construction for a lightweight feel and added stability at speed. The Mindbender 96C excels in a variety of conditions, from hardpack to powder, and its dampening properties will help smooth out your ride in rougher terrain.
Choosing the right ski:

• Skill level: Both skis are suitable for intermediate skiers looking to progress, but the Ripstick 96 might be a tad more forgiving for those still refining their technique.
• Terrain preference: If you enjoy exploring off-piste terrain and powder, the Ripstick 96's playful nature might be a better fit. However, if you prioritize versatility and plan to spend a good amount of time on groomers, the Mindbender 96C's stability and edge grip might be more appealing.
• Personal preference: Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both skis if possible and see which one feels more natural and intuitive to you.

Conclusion:
Upgrading to either the Elan Ripstick 96 or the K2 Mindbender 96C would be a significant improvement over your current skis. Both offer increased width for better floatation and stability in variable snow, while still maintaining maneuverability and forgiveness. Consider your skill level, terrain preference, and personal feel when making your final decision.
I hope this helps you choose the perfect ski for your next adventure on the slopes!

“What do you remember about the accident?”
…
…
“The heat..” I just barely said, falling back into my subconscious.
My throat is dry, too dry. It felt like my esophagus was trying scrape the layers off one by one.
I tried to get up, but I couldn’t move. Is this a nightmare? Am I having sleep paralysis? I try moving my toes and fingers but my whole body feels restricted, held down. I open up my eyes but the crust is too much. I keep trying and I felt a sudden and sharp pinch on my eyelids as they burst open.
Flames.
Ashes.
“Mom..”
I try and reach out for her limp body before I see the cement block lying over my body. My left arm bent back, palm up so I could still flip somebody off. My right arm on my stomach.
“Mom..” I quietly cry out. “Please! Help my mom!”
I try and get up, a desperate and foolish attempt to tell her I love her. She is alive and conscious to hear me, isn’t she?
She doesn’t need to be alive, hearing is the last sense to go.
My vision goes black. I can feel the heat getting to me now. My other senses are enhancing because my sight is gone. The one I rely on the most. How will I go help her?
If I can’t, who will? My anger builds up, faster than it ever has. Who did this to us. How fucking dare they. Probably someone driving under the influence, or worse. Someone probably snapchatting or facetiming - too busy to care about others on the road. Too busy to care about two people who only have each other. Too busy.
Heat is all I feel now. Red is all I see. My hands clenched.
Wait.. hands? Clenched? I open and close my fists. They’re free. I’m not held down by anyone or anything. I get up again but from my hips down I’m still stuck.
I drop back down like a ragdoll, not caring if my skull broke open from a piece of stone. I’m already dead. No one can help me now. A new feeling of desperateness awakes within me. I feel light now.. like a feather. Is someone helping me? Freeing me from this disaster? I reach down towards my leg and feel my bone. I don’t care if my leg is broken, but it’s free. I’m free - again.
My head and limbs all face down in a matter of seconds. My body bends upwards like a possession. I feel light, I feel god-like. I open my eyes and see in shades of blue, yellow and white. I’m not on the ground, I’m in the air. I look down and see the disaster.
My mom’s SUV looking like a Fiat while the infamous Corona brand remains intact on the 18 wheeled truck.
“18.”
18 years is all I had with her. I see in shades of red, yellow and orange. An audience of curious bastards lurk around the crime scene and yet.. none show remorse.
News anchors posted at three corners of the crime scene. Two dead, they say. The passenger survived, but not my mother.
I’m on the ground now and the Earth shakes. I take my fist out of the cement and head towards the the woman who had unconditional love for me, and I for her. I see in shades of blue, purple and black. I gently wrap my left arm behind her head and my right arm behind her back. I toss her arms around my neck and nuzzle into hers one last time.
“I love you.” I’m having trouble breathing. “I love you so much.”
“I.. love you too.”
I see black.

Suddenly out of a sudden my girlfriend said she is not liking anything she don't want anything she wants to be alone she also don't want a relationship and she said this out of a sudden so we ended our relationship and I respect her opinion and giving her time that she wants and whenever I ask her does she trust me or does she loves me she is answering everything in "idk" and but I'm still sticking to her bcuz I promised her I will never leave her in any situation and I'm still sending her loving messages and she is reacting on them but not with red heart but with blue heart and says I'm still above her best friends and still not telling me what happened so you guys tell me what should I do?

In the vanguard of neuroscience and artificial intelligence (AI), brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) stand as a testament to human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of enhancing human capabilities. These groundbreaking technologies, which enable a direct communication pathway between the brain and external devices, promise to revolutionize not only medical therapy for individuals with severe physical disabilities but also applications in diverse fields such as entertainment, marketing, education, and defense. However, as we stand on the brink of this new frontier, the ethical implications of such profound technological advancements beckon for careful consideration.

The Promise of Brain-Computer Interfaces

Recent experiments have made significant strides in internal speech decoding through BCIs, offering a glimpse into a future where thought-to-text conversion could restore communication for those who have lost it due to neurological diseases or injuries. For instance, a pioneering study demonstrated the feasibility of decoding words ‘spoken’ entirely in the brain in real time, achieving remarkable accuracy. This research utilized implanted microelectrode arrays in the supramarginal gyrus (SMG) and primary somatosensory cortex (S1), uncovering significant neural representation of both internal and vocalized speech. Notably, the study achieved an average decoding accuracy of 55% and 24% for internal speech in offline analysis, with online tasks reaching up to 79% accuracy. This work not only illustrates the technical feasibility of high-performance internal speech BCIs but also highlights the supramarginal gyrus as a critical area for phonetic encoding and the potential for a broad application of BCIs in restoring speech communication.

Navigating the Ethical Terrain

The rapid advancement of BCIs, while promising, introduces a complex web of ethical considerations that must be navigated with diligence and foresight. Ethical concerns encompass a wide array of issues, including human dignity, personhood, autonomy, user safety, stigma, discrimination, privacy, security, responsibility, research ethics, and social justice, particularly regarding access to this emerging technology. The principles of bioethics offer a foundational framework for addressing these concerns; however, they require adaptation to the evolving AI landscape to ensure they remain relevant and responsive.
Human dignity and autonomy are at the forefront of ethical debates, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that BCIs enhance rather than diminish the individual’s capacity for self-determination. Privacy and security issues also loom large, given the deeply personal nature of neural data and the potential for misuse. Additionally, the democratization of access to BCIs is a critical concern, as disparities in availability could exacerbate existing social inequalities.
Moreover, as BCIs find applications beyond the medical field, the potential impact on international relationships and national security becomes a pertinent issue. The dual-use nature of these technologies necessitates a global dialogue to establish norms and regulations that balance innovation with ethical considerations and international peace.

Toward Ethical Harmony

Achieving ethical harmony in the development and application of BCIs requires the concerted effort of all stakeholders, including researchers, policymakers, ethicists, and the public. Multi-disciplinary collaboration is essential to develop guidelines that safeguard human rights and dignity while fostering innovation. Public engagement and education will also play crucial roles in shaping societal norms and expectations regarding the use and regulation of BCIs.
As we chart the course for the future of BCIs, it is imperative to remain vigilant about the ethical implications of these technologies. By fostering an inclusive dialogue and developing robust ethical frameworks, we can harness the full potential of BCIs to enhance human capabilities while ensuring that technological advancements serve the greater good of humanity.

Herbal Formula:

For a more advanced approach to enhancing brain function and facilitating the transmission of thoughts and ideas, we can explore less commonly discussed, yet highly potent, herbs and compounds that target cognitive processes at a deeper level. These selections are based on traditional use backed by emerging scientific research, focusing on neuroprotection, neurotransmitter balance, and cognitive enhancement.
Advanced Herbal Formula for Cognitive Enhancement

1. **Huperzia Serrata (Club Moss)**:

• **Action**: Contains Huperzine A, a compound known for inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, which increases acetylcholine levels, enhancing memory and learning.
  
• **Dosage**: 50-200 mcg of Huperzine A per day.
  

1. **Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica)**:

• **Action**: Enhances dendrite and axon growth in the brain, supporting neural pathways and cognitive function, with additional benefits in reducing anxiety and improving mood.
  
• **Dosage**: 300-600 mg of standardized extract daily.
  

1. **Periwinkle (Vinca minor)**:

• **Action**: Contains vincamine, which is converted into vinpocetine in the body, improving cerebral blood flow, enhancing memory, and offering neuroprotective effects.
  
• **Dosage**: 15-30 mg of vinpocetine per day.
  

1. **Phosphatidylserine**:

• **Action**: A phospholipid that supports brain cell membrane integrity, enhances glucose metabolism in the brain, and improves nerve signal transmission.
  
• **Dosage**: 100-300 mg per day.
  

1. **Noopept**:

• **Action**: Offers a similar effect to piracetam but is considered more potent. It enhances cognitive function, memory, and learning ability with neuroprotective properties.
  
• **Dosage**: 10-30 mg per day.
  

1. **Blueberry Extract (High in Anthocyanins)**:

• **Action**: Antioxidants that cross the blood-brain barrier, protecting the brain from oxidative stress, and improving memory and cognitive functions.
  
• **Dosage**: 500-1000 mg of standardized extract daily.
  

1. **Mucuna Pruriens (Velvet Bean)**:

• **Action**: Contains L-DOPA, a precursor to dopamine, enhancing mood, motivation, and attention, while supporting overall neurotransmitter balance.
  
• **Dosage**: 100-500 mg of standardized L-DOPA content daily.
  

Cutting-Edge Cognitive Enhancers:

• **Magnesium L-Threonate**:
  
• **Action**: Specifically designed to penetrate the brain more effectively, enhancing synaptic density and plasticity, improving memory and learning.
  
• **Dosage**: 1,000-2,000 mg per day.
  
• **Polygala Tenuifolia (Yuan Zhi)**:
  
• **Action**: Traditional Chinese medicine herb with emerging evidence suggesting it enhances memory, neurogenesis, and exhibits antidepressant effects.
  
• **Dosage**: 100-200 mg of standardized extract twice daily.
  

Additional Integrative Strategies:

• **Intermittent Fasting or Caloric Restriction**: Shown to enhance neurogenesis and cognitive function, potentially synergizing with herbal supplementation.
  
• **Cognitive Training Exercises**: Engage in regular, diverse cognitive challenges to complement the biochemical enhancement from the herbal formula.
  
• **Mindfulness and Meditation**: Practice mindfulness and meditation to improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance the quality of cognitive processes.
  

Considerations and Cautions:

• **Interaction and Sensitivity Awareness**: Be aware of potential interactions between these compounds, especially if taking medications or if there are pre-existing health conditions.
  
• **Gradual Introduction**: Consider introducing one compound at a time to monitor effects and adjust dosages as needed.
  
• **Professional Guidance**: Seek advice from a healthcare provider knowledgeable in both traditional herbal medicine and modern nootropic supplements for personalized guidance and monitoring.
  

Conclusion

Brain-computer interfaces represent a frontier of immense promise and profound ethical complexity. The journey toward integrating these technologies into society will require not only technological innovation but also a deep commitment to navigating the ethical terrain with wisdom and integrity.
Sources:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41562-024-01867-y
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38745805/

I have been trying to get v4 recently and this morning I found the mirage randomly. Now, because I’m well outta danger lvl 6 and it’s so late in the night, I failed to find the blue gear. Can you resonate the moon more than one time? Tips for finding the blue gear fast will be appreciated too :)

DAY: MAY 14, 2024

• 5-14-2024TEXT MESSAGES WITH FINANCIAL INCENTIVES CAN HELP MEN WHO ARE LIVING WITH OBESITY LOSE WEIGHT, UK STUDY FINDS text messages with financial incentives can help men who are living with obesity lose weight and could be a valuable alternative to traditional weight management programs. Men who were offered cash for hitting weight loss targets lost more weight than those not given a financial incentive,
• 5-14-2024TECH ALONE CAN’T REPLACE HUMAN COACHES IN OBESITY TREATMENT, STUDY FINDS technology alone can’t replace the human touch to produce meaningful weight loss in obesity treatment. The study, titled “An Adaptive Behavioral Intervention for Weight Loss Management: A Noninferiority Randomized Clinical Trial,” . “Giving people technology alone for the initial phase of obesity treatment produces unacceptably worse weight loss than giving them treatment that combines technology with a human coach
• 5-14-2024ULTRASOUND CAN HELP PATIENTS WITH A TYPE OF RHEUMATIC DISEASE LEAD LONGER AND HEALTHIER LIVES ultrasound can help patients with a type of rheumatic disease to live longer and healthier lives. These patients have so far had an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, which contributes to premature death. Patients with a type of rheumatic disease called radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, a disease that causes changes in the bones in the pelvis and spine, have poorer health quality of life than control subjects.
• 5-14-2024SCIENTISTS FIND REPEATED, SMALL HITS TO HEAD IN FOOTBALL PLAYERS CAN DAMAGE BLOOD VESSELS IN THE BRAIN The work involved specialized helmets that were used to monitor head impacts in 60 university football players. Credit: Dalhousie University Repeated blows to the heads of football players can damage the small blood vessels of the brain, according to research by Dalhousie University scientists from the Brain Repair Center who believe this damage may contribute to brain dysfunction in some athletes years after play has ended. The neuroscientists found that the brain’s blood vessels can get damaged by a succession of small hits
• 5-14-2024‘MICROPREEMIE’ BABY WHO WEIGHED JUST OVER 1 POUND AT BIRTH GOES HOME FROM ILLINOIS HOSPITAL Nyla was born at just 22 weeks weighing 1 pound and 1 ounce, making her what’s known as a “micropreemie.” She left Silver Cross Hospital on Monday weighing a healthy 10 pounds, and was taken home by her first-time parents
• 5-14-2024RESEARCHERS INVESTIGATE IF PHARMACOLOGICAL TREATMENT OF ADHD REDUCES CRIMINALITY pharmacological treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) reduced violence- and public-order related crimes. However, it did not reduce other types of crimes, among patients with ADHD in early to late adolescence considered to be in the gray zone (or on the margin) for such treatment.
• 5-14-2024A NEW DRUG SHOWS POTENTIAL BENEFITS IN THE RECOVERY OF PATIENTS AFTER A HEART ATTACK beneficial effects of the novel drug Sacubitril/Valsartan in the management of myocardial infarction (MI). The research offers new insights into the drug’s ability to reduce inflammation, cardiac fibrosis, and prevent dangerous heart arrhythmias post-MI. Cardiovascular diseases, especially MI,
• 5-14-2024STUDY EXPLORES ROLE OF EPIGENETICS, ENVIRONMENT IN DIFFERING ALZHEIMER’S RISK BETWEEN BLACK AND WHITE COMMUNITIES environmentally caused alterations to specific areas of the genome—known as imprint control regions—during early development may contribute to the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, and that Black people may be more affected than white people. The work adds to our understanding of the ways in which environmental factors can contribute to genetic alterations and disease susceptibility.
• 5-14-2024NEW AI TOOL IMPROVES RISK ASSESSMENT FOR HEART FAILURE CARE researchers have developed a powerful new risk assessment tool for predicting outcomes in heart failure patients. The researchers have made the tool publicly available for free to clinicians. The new tool improves on existing risk assessment tools for heart failure by harnessing the power of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) to determine patient-specific risks of developing unfavorable outcomes with heart failure.
• 5-14-2024FAR FROM TOXIC, LACTATE RIVALS GLUCOSE AS BODY’S MAJOR FUEL AFTER A CARBOHYDRATE MEAL A volunteer is monitored after being given a large dose of glucose to determine how well people switch from fat to carbohydrate metabolism as they age. In the tests at UC Berkeley, subjects had their blood monitored for labeled lactate and glucose, underwent periodic blood sampling, and had their breath monitored for oxygen and carbon dioxide.
• 5-14-2024STUDY EXPLORES WHAT MOTIVATES PRESCHOOLERS TO PREPARE FOR THE FUTURE Adults find it particularly easy to prepare for the future when they imagine how they will feel. Researchers at Ruhr University Bochum, Germany, have investigated whether this is also the case with preschoolers. The researchers conducted the study at the intersection of philosophy and psychology. They described their findings in the journal Emotion. Rehearsing for a school play, getting a present for a friend’s birthday and packing a book for a long car journey:
• 5-14-2024NEWLY IDENTIFIED PET BIOMARKER PREDICTS SUCCESS OF IMMUNE CHECKPOINT BLOCKADE THERAPY The protein galectin-1 (Gal-1) has been identified as a new PET imaging biomarker for immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy, allowing physicians to predict the tumor responses before beginning treatment. Information garnered from Gal-1 PET imaging could also be used to facilitate patient stratification and optimize immunotherapy, enabling targeted interventions and improving patient outcomes. This research was published in the May issue of The Journal of Nuclear Medicine. Immunotherapies, such as ICB
• 5-14-2024STUDY FINDS AGE-ASSOCIATED GENE EXPRESSION CHANGES IN MOUSE SWEAT GLANDS
• 5-14-2024INJECTABLE HIV MEDICATION IS SUPERIOR TO ORAL MEDICATION FOR PATIENTS WHO FREQUENTLY MISS DOSES, STUDY FINDS
• 5-14-2024NEW CRYOPRESERVATION PROCEDURE ESTABLISHED TO PRESERVE FERTILITY BEFORE CANCER TREATMENT
• 5-14-2024CAN EATING OR DRINKING CAFFEINE BEFORE BED IMPACT YOUR HEALTH?
• 5-14-2024BRUXISM IS A RECURRING CONDITION AMONG PEOPLE WITH POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER, FINDS STUDY
• 5-14-2024EXERCISE BENEFITS THE BRAIN, BUT IMPROVING ITS BLOOD VESSELS MAY TAKE LONGER
• 5-14-2024SOCIAL ONLINE TRAINING CAN HELP AGAINST LONELINESS AND DEPRESSION
• 5-14-2024RESEARCHERS DETECT HIDDEN INGREDIENTS AND QUESTIONABLE CLAIMS IN SUPPLEMENTS
• 5-14-2024RESEARCH LINKS SLEEP APNEA SEVERITY DURING REM STAGE TO VERBAL MEMORY DECLINE
• 5-14-2024SEVERE OBESITY IN CHILDHOOD CAN HALVE LIFE EXPECTANCY, GLOBAL MODELING STUDY FINDS
• 5-14-2024COEXISTENCE OF PSORIATIC ARTHRITIS, ATOPIC DERMATITIS MAY OFFER TREATMENT INSIGHTS
• 5-14-2024MEN WITH LOW TESTOSTERONE LEVELS MAY BE AT INCREASED RISK OF DYING PREMATURELY
• 5-14-2024CONGENITAL ANOMALIES FOUND TO BE TEN TIMES MORE FREQUENT IN CHILDREN WITH NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS
• 5-14-2024RESEARCHERS REVEAL HOW LIPOPOLYSACCHARIDE BINDING PROTEIN RESISTS HEPATIC OXIDATIVE STRESS
• 5-14-2024STEM CELLS PROVIDE NEW INSIGHT INTO GENETIC PATHWAY OF CHILDHOOD CANCER
• 5-14-2024SAN FRANCISCO SET TO BAN ‘FOREVER CHEMICALS’ IN FIREFIGHTER GEAR
• 5-14-2024AN NRL PLAYER DIED AT TRAINING DUE TO EXERTIONAL HEAT STROKE. WHAT IS IT AND WHAT SHOULD COACHES AND ATHLETES KNOW?
• 5-14-2024FIVE CHARTS ON THE GLOBAL SUCCESS OF VACCINES
• 5-14-2024KIDS LIVING NEAR COLORADO AIRPORTS HAVE SLIGHTLY ELEVATED LEVELS OF LEAD IN THEIR BLOOD, NEW STUDY FINDS
• 5-14-2024STUDY SHOWS VIRUS THAT CAUSES COVID-19 CAN PENETRATE BLOOD-RETINAL-BARRIER AND COULD DAMAGE VISION
• 5-14-2024HOW BIG FOOD COMPANIES CAN DO MORE TO CREATE HEALTHIER FOOD ENVIRONMENTS
• 5-14-2024PROMISING NEW STUDY COULD LEAD TO A REDUCTION IN SYMPTOMS OF AMYOTROPHIC LATERAL SCLEROSIS
• 5-14-2024PELVIC HEALTH PROBLEMS ARE A COMMON EXPERIENCE FOR WOMEN—WHY MANY DON’T GET THE HELP THEY NEED
• 5-14-2024NEW RESEARCH PRESENTS ‘MINI-BRAINS’ THAT COULD ADVANCE ALZHEIMER’S TREATMENT
• 5-14-2024STUDY SHOWS HOW EXCESSIVE DRINKING AFFECTS OTHERS
• 5-14-2024NEW TRANSIT STATION IN JAPAN SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCES CUMULATIVE HEALTH EXPENDITURES
• 5-14-2024BINGE DRINKING IS A GROWING PUBLIC HEALTH CRISIS—HOW RESEARCH ON ALCOHOL USE DISORDER HAS SHIFTED
• 5-14-2024WHAT I’VE LEARNED FROM INTERVIEWING HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE WHO HARM THEMSELVES
• 5-14-2024STUDY REVEALS RACIAL DISPARITIES IN DIAGNOSIS AND DRUG USE FOR DEMENTIA SYMPTOMS
• 5-14-2024PEOPLE WITHOUT AN INNER VOICE HAVE POORER VERBAL MEMORY, FINDS STUDY
• 5-14-2024CONCUSSION EXPERTS WARN TERM USED TO DESCRIBE HEAD IMPACTS—’SUBCONCUSSION’—IS MISLEADING AND DANGEROUS
• 5-14-2024STUDY UNCOVERS PROTEIN INTERACTIONS AS A POTENTIAL PATH FOR ALS CURE
• 5-14-2024HOW BITTER FOOD CONSTITUENTS INFLUENCE GASTRIC ACID PRODUCTION
• 5-14-2024ADIPOSITY IN CHILDHOOD AFFECTS THE RISK OF BREAST CANCER BY CHANGING BREAST TISSUE COMPOSITION, STUDY SUGGESTS
• 5-14-2024COLD PLUNGING MIGHT HELP HEART HEALTH, RESEARCH SUGGESTS
• 5-14-2024STUDY EXPLORES POTENTIAL TARGET TO TREAT LIVER DISEASE
• 5-14-2024THROUGH TRADITION AND TRADE, TRIBE IN RURAL KANSAS WORKS TO RECLAIM ITS FOOD SOVEREIGNTY
• 5-14-2024UK SAYS PROPOSED PANDEMIC TREATY ‘NOT ACCEPTABLE’
• 5-14-2024BODY-WIDE MOLECULAR MAP EXPLAINS WHY EXERCISE IS SO GOOD FOR YOU
• 5-14-2024FIRST STUDY TO GLOBALLY MAP HEAT-WAVE-RELATED MORTALITY FINDS 153,000+ DEATHS ASSOCIATED WITH HEAT WAVES
• 5-14-2024EARLY DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT OF PERIPHERAL ARTERY DISEASE ESSENTIAL TO IMPROVE OUTCOMES, REDUCE AMPUTATION RISK
• 5-14-2024ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TOOL DETECTS SEX-RELATED DIFFERENCES IN BRAIN STRUCTURE
• 5-14-2024OVER 20,000 PEOPLE JOIN UK SEARCH FOR NEW DEMENTIA TREATMENTS
• 5-14-2024A MINIMAL COGNITIVE ARCHITECTURE REPRODUCES CONTROL OF HUMAN DECISION-MAKING PROCESSES
• 5-14-2024SCIENTISTS DEMYSTIFY WHY SUBSEQUENT BOUTS OF DENGUE ARE WORSE THAN A FIRST-TIME INFECTION
• 5-14-2024BRAIN–COMPUTER INTERFACE EXPERIMENTS FIRST TO DECODE WORDS ‘SPOKEN’ ENTIRELY IN THE BRAIN IN REAL TIME
• 5-14-2024MACHINE LEARNING SHEDS LIGHT ON GENE TRANSCRIPTION
• 5-14-2024WILL AI REPLACE DOCTORS WHO READ X-RAYS, OR JUST MAKE THEM BETTER THAN EVER?
• 5-14-2024SURVEY FINDS 8,000 WOMEN A MONTH GOT ABORTION PILLS DESPITE THEIR STATES’ BANS OR RESTRICTIONS
• 5-14-2024SCIENTISTS DISCOVER SURPRISING DETAILS ABOUT XYLAZINE IN COMBINATION WITH FENTANYL
• 5-14-2024NEW RESEARCH CHALLENGES WIDESPREAD BELIEFS ABOUT WHY WE’RE ATTRACTED TO CERTAIN VOICES
• 5-14-2024ADDING CARDIOVASCULAR BIOMARKERS TO ESTABLISHED RISK FACTORS INCREASES RISK PREDICTION
• 5-14-2024DREAMING IS LINKED TO IMPROVED MEMORY CONSOLIDATION AND EMOTION REGULATION
• 5-14-2024STUDY IDENTIFIES GENETIC LINK BETWEEN INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE AND PARKINSON’S DISEASE
• 5-14-2024PHYSICIANS WITH DISABILITIES MAY EXPERIENCE DEPERSONALIZATION
• 5-14-2024ANALYSIS SUGGESTS PEOPLE WITH MORE COPIES OF RIBOSOMAL DNA HAVE HIGHER RISKS OF DEVELOPING DISEASE
• 5-14-2024STUDY IDENTIFIES FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE RETINOPATHY
• 5-14-2024STUDY REVEALS MIXED PUBLIC OPINION ON POLYGENIC EMBRYO SCREENING FOR IVF
• 5-14-2024‘MUSIC MAP’ REVEALS SOME BRAIN CELLS AGE FASTER AND ARE MORE PREVALENT IN ALZHEIMER’S
• 5-14-2024STUDY FINDS SOME CHILDREN WERE PRESCRIBED NONRECOMMENDED MEDS FOR COVID-19
• 5-14-2024COULD BEING ONLINE ACTUALLY BE GOOD FOR YOU? NEW STUDY REVEALS A SURPRISING FINDING
• 5-14-2024NEW RESEARCH IDENTIFIES A LARGER POOL OF GENES INVOLVED IN AGE-RELATED BLOOD CELL MUTATIONS THAN PREVIOUSLY THOUGHT
• 5-14-2024NEW DRUG MAKES EXERCISE, EVERYDAY TASKS EASIER FOR PEOPLE WITH COMMON HEART CONDITION
• 5-14-2024BREAST CANCER RISK VARIANTS IDENTIFIED FOR WOMEN OF AFRICAN ANCESTRY
• 5-14-2024NEW RESEARCH SHEDS LIGHT ON WHY COLLEGE STUDENTS IN MEXICO CHOOSE TO VAPE
• 5-14-2024NEW STUDY SHOWS RECOVERY POTENTIAL IN PATIENTS WITH TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY
• 5-14-2024AI AIDS ANALYSIS OF LIFETIME ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURES
• 5-14-2024NEW RESEARCH REVEALS URGENT NEED FOR INTEGRATED CARE IN PEDIATRIC EPILEPSY
• 5-14-2024HERPES CURE WITH GENE EDITING MAKES PROGRESS IN LABORATORY STUDIES
• 5-14-2024PATIENTS WITH NEUROLOGICAL DISEASE ARE LIKELIER TO DIE AFTER COVID, FINDS STUDY
• 5-14-2024RESEARCHERS PARTNER WITH CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL ON NEW HEART SURGERY PLANNING TOOL
• 5-14-2024AXONS IN FEMALE MAMMAL BRAINS MAY BE MORE PRONE TO CONCUSSIONS
• 5-14-2024STUDY SUPPORTS LOWER BMI THRESHOLD FOR OBESITY IN THOSE OVER AGE 40
• 5-14-2024FDA DISCUSSING BAN OF FORMALDEHYDE IN HAIR STRAIGHTENERS
• 5-14-2024NEW TOOL ALLOWS FOR GENE SUPPRESSION IN MOUSE HEART MUSCLE CELLS USING CRISPRI
• 5-14-2024NEW GENE THERAPY MODEL OFFERS HOPE FOR X-LINKED SIDEROBLASTIC ANEMIA TREATMENT
• 5-14-2024GIVING LESSONS TO YOUR TEENAGE SELF COULD BOOST YOUR WELL-BEING, SAY RESEARCHERS

Hiya! I have to go in for a mammogram tomorrow and am apparently channeling all my stress and worry over that into figuring out how to get another one a year from now, when I'm (planning to be) on a 2-year trip around the world.
Has anyone had any experience getting a mammogram and/or ultrasound (of any kind) overseas? I'll have travel insurance but it won't cover preventative screenings. I expect most places will require a doctor visit (or two) first to get the referral for the screening, but I truly have no idea what to expect.
I'll likely try to get the mammogram in the Netherlands, France, or South Africa, but I'm open to any advice or info from anywhere!! Thank you!

Hello and good afternoon.
My son is graduating high school in a couple of weeks and will be attending university for mechanical engineering. We need to get him a laptop for school and I was told (not by him) that a "gaming" laptop has the performance needed to run the programs he will need in school. I want this laptop to keep him through college at the least. He is also an online gamer and plays games like Helldivers, Fortnite, and a plethora of other steam games. He will have a second monitor attached. Is the below laptop a good choice for him? If not, do you have a suggestion? thank you in advance and have a great day.
Lenovo Legion 5i Gen 9 Intel (16″) with RTX 4070
14th Generation Intel® Core™ i9-14900HX Processor (E-cores up to 4.10 GHz P-cores up to 5.80 GHz)
NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4070 Laptop GPU 8GB GDDR6
32 GB DDR5-5600MHz (SODIMM) - (2 x 16 GB)
1 TB SSD M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4
TLC 16" WQXGA (2560 x 1600), IPS, Anti-Glare, Non-Touch, RGB, 350 nits, 165Hz, Narrow Bezel, Low Blue Light

(Sorry for English, I'm not very good at speaking German)
Long story short, I want to get on HRT and while I know there are a few therapists who will give somebody the indication letter off of one or two sessions, these therapists tend to use only virtual meetings and I have avoidant personality disorder and really struggle with meeting people virtually. I've tried for a few years now to prepare myself to do a virtual meeting with somebody but I've come to a point where I would rather live the rest of my life without being able to look at myself without extreme distress than to even start the process of arranging a virtual therapy session. All that being said:

1. Does anyone know any therapists who will write the indication letter within a few in-person sessions (or even house visits)? I can get anywhere in Badem-Württemberg and (specifically northern) Bayern, as well as anywhere in Rhineland-Pfalz or Hessen that borders Badem-Württemberg.
2. Any recommended endocrinologists/anyone who can prescribe HRT in this area would also be helpful.
3. Additionally, is there potentially a way to get HRT without even getting the indication letter? I have private health insurance and I know that can help speed up/simplify the process a bit.
4. I've heard of people in other countries who get denied/delayed transitioning because of certain mental disorders they have. I want to get a few things diagnosed, and was just wondering if this applies to Germany as well or if there's a way to hide a diagnosis from a therapist or endocrinologist.
5. How much does HRT typically cost, specifically testosterone gel?

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HOW TO JOIN US Please come to our Discord server and an Officer or myself will assist you! We look forward to welcoming you to the family!

In general, panhandlers don't bother me/I don't bother them. Recently, however, the panhandlers in intersections off of Glenwood/Blue Ridge Road have been causing traffic issues.
This is both directly and indirectly: 1. There's a couple of people that regularly beg at the median at Glenwood/Blue Ridge Road. They are a little larger and simply don't fully fit in the median space between the concrete median barriers and the highway right of way. Traffic slows down to make sure they don't get too close to the panhandlers.

1. People that give money will simply stop (even when the light is green) to give money.

The panhandling ordinance doesn't really address these issues as far as I can tell. Is there anything that can be done about it?