Larry McCann, Author at NVT Health

In Weight Loss

Hormone Changes After Bariatric Surgery: A Comprehensive Look

June 29, 2023 No Comments

Bariatric surgery is a highly effective weight loss option for individuals suffering from obesity. While many are aware of the impressive results that can be achieved, few understand the critical role that hormone changes play in the surgery’s success. In this article, we will take a closer look at the hormonal shifts that occur after bariatric surgery and discuss how these changes can improve the overall quality of life for patients.

The Connection Between Hormones and Weight Loss

Hormones play a crucial role in regulating all aspects of our bodies, including weight loss and appetite control. Two key hormones that influence weight are ghrelin and leptin. Ghrelin is responsible for stimulating hunger, while leptin is in charge of signaling fullness to the brain. When these hormones become imbalanced, individuals can experience an overactive appetite, leading to significant weight gain.

How Bariatric Surgery Affects Hormones?

With a qualified bariatric surgeon’s help, patients can undergo a variety of procedures designed to promote hormone balance and facilitate healthy weight loss. Bariatric surgery impacts hormone production and sensitivity through a combination of mechanisms, including reduced stomach size and altered digestive processes. As a result, patients can benefit from increased appetite control and an overall boost in their metabolism.

One significant change that occurs following bariatric surgery is a decrease in ghrelin production. Lower ghrelin levels mean fewer hunger signals, translating into less caloric intake and more effortless weight loss. Additionally, bariatric surgery has been shown to improve leptin sensitivity, allowing the body to respond more effectively to its fullness cues and reducing the overall desire to overeat.

Improved Quality of Life Through Hormonal Balance

The hormonal changes that occur post-bariatric surgery not only lead to successful weight loss but also contribute to an improved quality of life for patients. The reduction in hunger signals can help individuals better control their food intake and achieve a healthier relationship with food. Additionally, lower ghrelin levels and improved leptin sensitivity have been linked to a decrease in obesity-related health conditions like sleep apnea and type 2 diabetes.

Weight loss can also result in positive hormonal shifts related to mental well-being. Many individuals report feeling happier and more emotionally stable after shedding excess pounds, which is thought to be linked to improved serotonin and endorphin levels.

Final Thoughts

Though weight loss is a critical factor in a successful bariatric procedure, it’s essential to recognize the pivotal role that hormone changes play in each patient’s journey. Weight loss surgery by the best bariatric surgeon in NYC can offer a powerful tool for achieving hormonal balance and, in turn, can improve the overall quality of life for patients who undergo the procedure. By understanding the hormone changes brought on by the surgery, individuals can take control of their lives and make well-informed decisions about their health. Thank you for reading.

In Featured

The Iris Wellness Center Offers Medical Detox

June 1, 2023 No Comments

The most secure method to go through a drug detox in Chattanooga, TN, is at the Iris Wellness Center, which is surrounded by specialists that can assist. It may be tough to get rid of anything nasty that you have been putting in your body. However, it may be difficult to foresee your response. During a detox, there is no way to assess your independence. We recommend contacting Iris Wellness Center for further information and assistance in selecting the best detox program for your health and well-being.

Chattanooga, Tennessee Toxicology

If the patient has successfully stopped using the substance, we may enroll them in therapy, counseling, or any other program that we feel will best suit their requirements and assist them in determining the fundamental causes of their drug misuse. Detoxing may seem to be a lengthy process; therefore, seeking medical counsel is the best line of action. The vast majority of individuals are unaware of how to properly deal with the negative consequences of attempting to detox on their own.

When you utilize medical detox programs, you may stay on track while also supporting those who want to see you succeed. It would be advantageous if you believed in your capacity to find your path because once you do, everyone else will. While it will not be an easy feat, we are certain that we can do it. You can do it because many others have done it before you.

Take Care of Yourself

Finding a solution starts with accepting that you must change in order to have a positive effect on your future. This will benefit not just you but also others around you. When you have a problem with drug misuse, a medical detox may help you get clean and back on track.

Our drug detox program is designed to assist patients in understanding how drug addiction affects others around them and why it should not be ignored. Taking care of yourself and maintaining your health is one of the most important things you can do to recover. Prioritize your needs and persevere until you feel like yourself again. You could be able to tackle difficulties you weren’t even aware you had following detox. Our experts are ready to listen to you and assist you in any manner you want.

Contact Us to Begin a Detox Program

Experts at the Iris Wellness Center can help you grasp the nuances of a rehabilitation program. If you need to start with a drug detox, we can teach you what has to be done and make sure you have the resources you need for a successful trip. Even if you don’t have all the solutions, stating that you want to change is a good place to begin. We can help you from there.

We exclusively work for our patients and their desire for a brighter future. We want you to feel comfortable bringing all of your problems, difficulties, and achievements! The goal of your program is for you to have fun and celebrate. There will be joyful and sad times. You must be able to distinguish between the two.

In Featured

What Takes Place in Your Life When Addiction Touches It?

June 1, 2023 No Comments

In order to help those who need our services, the Glendora Recovery Center in Glendora, California, attempts to educate them. A center for addiction treatment could seem like a big step. However, it’s a positive step anyway. The Glendora Recovery Center was created as a one-stop shop for anybody looking for a way of life free from addiction. Our services are open to both adolescents and adults that are interested in attending our addiction recovery center in Glendora, CA. For a brighter future, our staff is here to help everyone who needs it! Believing in oneself is the first step in undergoing change.

In Search of a Program

Now that you’ve decided to visit an addiction treatment center, it’s time to review the services we provide. People who may need to work, raise a family, or remain with us permanently can be supported in a number of ways. One of our most popular options is our half-hospitalization program. You will be given the choice to take part in this program for a certain amount of hours on one or more days each week, and you will be free to go home at night. As a new patient, you will be evaluated so that our staff can design a customized treatment plan for you. Depending on their needs, each person’s PHP experience will differ. You will take part in both individual and group treatment sessions.

We provide guidance on food, exercise routines, relapse prevention, and anything else you may need assistance with at our Glendora, California, addiction treatment center during or after your stay.

How Long Do You Rehab For?

Since each participant’s program is customized to match their specific needs, it is impossible to anticipate how long you will remain with us. Your treatment, for instance, may last up to five days a week and three hours or more each day. This may seem to be a hefty commitment at first. However, it is not meant to last for a very long time. Usually, it takes two to three weeks to finish a PHP program.

PHP Benefits

You’ll come to appreciate how pleasant spending many hours every day in treatment is. When your addiction becomes normal, it is the perfect time to try to overcome it. It’s possible that you’ll learn new abilities and figure out how to put your want to place more attention on yourself into action. You should realize that this program is appropriate for you and learn how to have an addiction-free life. When you give yourself permission to become who you want to be, the staff at Glendora Recovery Center is here to support you and inform you about all the many aspects of life that are waiting for you.

Give the Glendora Recovery Center a Call

We recognize how difficult it may be to commit to something that could make your life better. Once you’ve determined that this is the right course of action for you, give us a call so that we can help you start the rehabilitation process. You may choose from a range of our materials and programs. We value your ability to find the perfect match.

In Addiction Treatment

Daily Habits to Adopt on Your Road to Recovery

May 31, 2023 No Comments

Recovery from addiction is an ongoing process that takes time, effort, and determination. By incorporating daily habits into your routine, you can improve your chances of successfully overcoming your struggle. In the below article, you will find some crucial habits to form on your recovery journey, offering guidance and a sense of direction during this challenging time.

1. Establish a Consistent Routine

Creating a stable and predictable daily routine can significantly benefit those in recovery. Finding a reputable recovery house in Fort Lauderdale can help with this, as they often provide a safe and structured environment. Some key components to consider when developing your routine include:

Morning rituals, such as meditation and exercise.
Maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated.
Incorporating activities that promote relaxation and reduce stress.
Establishing a consistent sleep schedule.

2. Identify and Manage Triggers

Understanding your personal triggers is essential for maintaining sobriety. Triggers can be external, like specific environments or people, or internal, such as feelings of stress, anxiety, or loneliness. Keeping track of these experiences can help you develop coping mechanisms and avoid situations that could lead to relapse. Some ways to manage your triggers include:

Maintaining a journal of your thoughts and experiences.
Seeking professional help or joining support groups.
Developing exit strategies for high-risk scenarios.
Building a strong support network of friends and family.

3. Engage in Physical Activity

Regular exercise is vital for overall health and can play a significant role in addiction recovery. Exercise releases natural feel-good chemicals called endorphins, which can help combat cravings and offer mood-boosting effects. In addition, participating in physical activities can serve as a healthy way to fill the time previously spent on addictive behaviors. Some recommended activities include:

Walking, jogging, or running.
Yoga and meditation.
Strength training and aerobic workouts.
Swimming, biking, or hiking.

4. Focus on Self-Care

Prioritizing self-care in your daily routine is crucial for maintaining mental and emotional well-being. By incorporating self-compassionate habits, you can create a healthier and more sustainable foundation for your recovery journey. Some practical self-care habits may include:

Regularly engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation.
Practicing stress-management techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness meditation.
Reinforcing your positive self-image and self-esteem through affirmations.
Reaching out to supportive friends and family for emotional support.

To Sum Up

Ultimately, building daily habits during your recovery journey can play a crucial role in maintaining sobriety and promoting growth. By focusing on establishing a consistent routine, managing triggers, engaging in physical activities, and prioritizing self-care, you can set yourself up for success in overcoming addiction. Remember, recovery is a lifelong process; it is essential to be patient with yourself and stay committed to your efforts.

In Health

Uncovering Myths about Ortho-K

May 22, 2023 No Comments

Orthokeratology, also known as ortho-k, is comparable to straightening your teeth with orthodontics. However, rather than undergoing a lengthy surgical procedure, the procedure involves altering or moulding the cornea’s surface with special contact lenses.

The dome-shaped transparent cornea protects the eye’s internal structures and refracts light to the retina, which transmits it to the brain for interpretation. Unfortunately, people with astigmatism or myopia have corneas and lenses that do not properly refract light to the retina, causing objects to appear indistinct or duplicated.

During the ortho-k procedure, you will be provided special gas-permeable rigid contact lenses to wear overnight to reshape your cornea delicately. The modification of the cornea corrects light refraction to the retina, allowing you to see plainly the next day.

When you graduate from wearing special contact lenses to so-called “retainer” contact lenses, you must wear them every night to prevent vision loss. People who do not want or cannot undertake surgery can reshape their cornea without surgery.

Ortho-k in Singapore is most effective for individuals with mild degrees of myopia and astigmatism. Even though the procedure is harmless, its effects are temporary and reversible when contact lenses are no longer worn.

Due to concerns regarding the safety and effectiveness of orthokeratology, some misconceptions surround the procedure. During your appointment, your eye doctor can explain in greater detail, but here are some common misconceptions about orthokeratology safety information.

Myth: Corneal tissue becomes compressed.

Those who do not completely comprehend the orthokeratology procedure may believe that when the lenses are placed over the eyes to flatten the cornea, the cells of the cornea are pushed to the periphery, which may cause harm to the eye. However, hydraulic forces beneath the contact lens, involving the eye’s natural fluids, help reshape the cornea, whose upper portion over the iris is thinner than its surroundings. In addition, the transformation is temporary. The cornea will return to its original shape once lens wear is discontinued.

Myth: Fittings are overly complex.

Fitting your eyes for special contact lenses is uncomplicated, with a success rate of at least 75% on the first attempt. Diagnostic fitting with a wavefront device is the most precise, producing a map of the surface of your eye that resembles a mountainous topographical map. This permits individualised design. Although the procedure may be comparatively more time-consuming than conventional contact lenses, it is safe and effective.

Myth: Infection is inevitable.

With orthokeratology lenses, there is a risk of infection, which can be especially concerning for parents seeking to treat their child’s myopia. However, hypoxia in the eyes, which can cause corneal swelling, is more dangerous with hard contacts than with soft contacts, and long-term corneal changes can cause injury. New materials have enhanced the gas permeability of contact lenses, and appropriate lens care reduces the risk of infection. Regular use of standard soft contact lenses carries a relative risk.

Myth: It is a waste of time because it’s not permanent.

Braces are not a permanent solution for many individuals, and many get braces again as adults. For many, this is a normal aspect of the maturation process. Although the effects of orthokeratology are not as long-lasting as those of orthodontics for teeth, the allure of clear daytime vision without undergoing any surgery, no matter how minor, is appealing to many individuals.

In Weight Loss

5 Ways to Support a Loved One Going Through Weight Loss Surgery

April 5, 2023 No Comments

Weight loss surgery can be a challenging and life-changing experience for anyone. If you have a loved one who is considering or undergoing bariatric surgery, there are many ways you can provide them with emotional and practical assistance throughout their recovery process. This article will explore five ways you can support your loved one as they go through weight loss surgery.

1. Understand the Medical Guidelines for Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery is a life-changing decision, and it is important to understand what the procedure entails before you can start making any plans for support. Make sure you read up on the medical guidelines for bariatric surgery, such as the pre-and post-operative dietary restrictions that usually accompany these procedures. You may also check out the must-have items that you should buy before the surgery to ensure a smooth recovery for your loved one. Remember that the key is to provide your loved one with the necessary information so that they can make an informed decision about their health.

2. Provide Emotional Support to Your Loved One During Their Recovery Process

Recovering from bariatric surgery can be a physically and emotionally challenging experience. Giving your loved one the emotional support they need to get through this difficult time is essential. You could do this by being a listening ear, offering reassurance, and providing encouragement. You may also suggest activities such as going for walks together or having regular check-ins.

3. Help Them Stay on Track with Their Diet and Exercise Plan

After bariatric surgery, your loved one will need to follow a strict diet and exercise plan. You can support your loved one by helping them stay on track with their new lifestyle changes. You could offer to cook healthy meals, go shopping for groceries together, and encourage them to stick to their exercise routine. From time to time, you might also suggest new activities that your loved one can try in order to stay motivated.

4. Offer Assistance in Managing Any Potential Setbacks

There may be times when your loved one has setbacks during their recovery after bariatric surgery; offer assistance to help them manage these setbacks. You could provide emotional support and encouragement, help them stay on top of their diet and exercise plan, or suggest effective coping strategies. For instance, if your loved one is feeling overwhelmed, you could offer to take them out for a walk or suggest engaging in a relaxing activity such as yoga or meditation.

5. Research Resources for Additional Help or Information About Bariatric Surgery

After bariatric surgery, your loved one may need additional help from community resources. Research local bariatric surgery support groups for the best possible care for your loved one. You may also contact bariatric surgery centers in the area that provide nutrition counseling and other support services. By researching resources, you will be able to provide your loved one with the best possible care during their recovery process.

Conclusion

These are the five ways to support a loved one going through weight loss surgery. Weight loss surgery is a life-changing experience, so it is important to make sure that you provide your loved one with the necessary emotional and practical support they need as they go through their recovery process. From seeking an experienced doctor for bariatric surgery in Miami to researching resources for additional help, there are plenty of ways you can show your support. This way, your loved one will have the best possible outcome from their weight loss surgery.

In Dental

Top Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Smile

April 3, 2023 No Comments

Looking after your teeth and gums can provide many benefits for your overall health and wellbeing. However, with so much conflicting advice on the TV, internet and social media these days, it can be hard to know what is actually important and what measures you should be taking to protect your smile.

We spoke to some professional Essex dental experts to get their top tips for maintaining a healthy smile.

Brushing

Brushing your teeth seems simple enough but it’s surprising how many people get the basics wrong so be sure to;

Brush your teeth twice a day, every day to remove leftover food particles and help prevent plaque.
Don’t forget to brush your tongue as a build-up of bacteria can lead to bad breath.
Brush for a full two minutes each time and use a timer on your phone to make sure you are meeting that target.
Use the right brushing technique by gently moving back and forth in short strokes, brushing all the inner, outer and chewing surfaces.

Additional Cleaning

Floss between the teeth daily with dental floss, interdental brushes or an air flosser to clear away hard to reach plaque.
Use mouthwash, but instead of using it after brushing, use it between brushing and after meals to help wash away debris, clean the mouth and freshen breath.
Remember to spit out the toothpaste and not to rinse your mouth with water afterwards as this washes away the fluoride from the toothpaste that coats and helps to protect the teeth.

Products

- Use a toothpaste with fluoride as this helps to strengthen tooth enamel.
- Use a flossing product that works best for you such as dental floss, interdental brushes or an air flosser.
- Make sure you use a fluoride mouthwash
- Ideally you should use an electric toothbrush as these can be much more effective than regular brushes.

Change your toothbrush or brush heads every 8-12 weeks depending on wear.

Lifestyle

Smoking can really affect the health and appearance of your teeth and gums. Quitting smoking can make a huge difference on your overall and oral health with many great benefits.
Beware of snacking as this can have a big impact on your oral health.
If you do have a snack, then try to ensure it is low in sugar and brush or mouthwash after.
Avoid drinking large volumes of sugary drinks or drinks that can stain such as tea, coffee and red wine.
Drink plenty of water.
Visit your dentist twice a year for a proper check-up and to discuss any issues you are having.
See a hygienist every 6 months or so for a thorough teeth clean as this can help to prevent decay, gum disease and tooth loss.
Avoid bad habits such as chewing on hard objects like pen lids, biting your nails or crunching on ice as this can damage your teeth.

In Dental

Why Should One Consider Sedation Dentistry When Facing Dental Anxiety?

March 7, 2023 No Comments

Dental anxiety is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. For some individuals, visiting the dentist can trigger fear and panic, making it challenging to receive the dental care they need. It would help if you consulted Fairfield, ME dental office to overcome dental anxiety through sedation.

Fortunately, sedation dentistry can help individuals with dental anxiety feel more comfortable and relaxed during their appointments. You should explore the benefits of sedation dentistry and understand why individuals consider it when facing dental anxiety. By understanding the benefits of sedation dentistry, individuals can take a proactive step towards better oral health and a more positive dental experience.

Benefits of sedation dentistry for dental anxiety:

Relaxation

Sedation dentistry can provide a sense of relaxation for individuals with dental anxiety. This relaxation can help reduce fear and panic associated with dental visits, making it easier for patients to receive the necessary care.

Sedation dentistry uses various techniques to achieve a relaxed state, including oral medications, intravenous sedation, and nitrous oxide gas. By feeling more relaxed, patients are more likely to undergo necessary dental procedures, leading to better oral health outcomes.

Lowered risk of complications

Sedation dentistry can reduce the risk of complications during dental procedures for individuals with dental anxiety. Anxiety and fear can cause patients to move or flinch during treatment, increasing the risk of injury or complications.

Sedation dentistry helps patients relax, reducing the likelihood of movement or flinching during treatment. It can lead to safer, more efficient dental procedures with a lower risk of complications. By reducing the risk of complications, sedation dentistry allows patients with dental anxiety to receive necessary dental care with greater confidence and peace of mind.

Accessible for a variety of procedures

Sedation dentistry can be used for various dental procedures, making it an accessible option for individuals with dental anxiety. Whether patients need a routine cleaning or a more complex process, sedation dentistry can help them feel more comfortable and relaxed.

It can make dental care more accessible for individuals who may have otherwise avoided treatment due to anxiety or fear. With sedation dentistry, patients can receive the necessary care they need for better oral health outcomes without sacrificing their comfort or peace of mind.

Reduced pain

Sedation dentistry can help reduce pain for individuals with dental anxiety. Anxiety and fear can cause patients more pain and discomfort during dental procedures. Sedation dentistry uses various techniques to achieve a relaxed state, which can help reduce pain and discomfort during treatment.

It can make dental procedures more tolerable and less intimidating for patients with dental anxiety. By reducing pain and discomfort, sedation dentistry can help patients feel more confident and at ease during their dental appointments, leading to better oral health outcomes.

In Featured

Recognizing and Defining Your Technological Brand for Marketing

March 1, 2023 No Comments

It has been determined that your technology business is prepared. You have a name, a close-knit team of employees, and a physical location. What are our next steps? Do you pay thought to how your brand is represented? Instead, have you considered who you want to attract as customers?

This information is necessary for your firm to stay strong before it ever gets started. Business Growth specializes in providing a strong structure for tech marketing companies. When you partner with us, you can be confident that your message will reach the people who can help you grow your business. We can create a plan that will put you on the right track if we work together.

Understanding Your Organization’s Purpose

It is critical to understand your company’s sweet spot. That’s a lot to process, and you may come up with a long list of responses. The first step is to decrease the number of options to a tolerable quantity. Ask yourself the correct questions.

Is there a need in the market that my product can meet?
Can my service fill a market void?
Which categories of individuals would benefit the most from my services?

Just answering these questions to the best of your abilities will get you one step closer to accomplishing your goals. This might provide the basis for your future achievements. You may begin planning future plans as soon as you receive a response from them.

What Qualities Should a Good Framework Possess?

To differentiate your company from the competition, create a primary message structure comprised of keywords and phrases. You can achieve the following objectives with a dependable central communication system.

A single overall theme must guide your company’s marketing approach. The material on your website, social media, and newsletters should all stem from this underlying principle. It’s a great resource for teaching your employees how to communicate effectively with clients and other business partners.

A well-structured key message makes it easier for people to understand what you do. Workers at all levels will find it easier to respond to queries about the company and how they can help others.

An Excellent Medium for Emphasizing Your Selling Points

It discusses why your company is superior to the competition and why the reader should choose you over another company. It’s an important part of marketing since it explains to potential clients why they should do business with you instead of your rivals. Your efforts will be more effective if you use all of the marketing resources at your disposal.

You’ll have a solid marketing foundation if all of your content is built on the same key themes. Consumers are more inclined to buy from you and suggest your company if they believe you will keep your promises and uphold the standards you establish.

Conclusion

A well-executed advertising strategy is critical to the sustainability of any firm. If you need help deciding where your IT business should go, contact The Business Growers, one of the world’s best IT marketing firms. In addition to assisting you in the development of a strong brand, we also provide search engine optimization and content marketing services. If you’re interested and want more details, please get in touch with us straight away. If you’re serious about expanding your company, you should get in touch with The Business Growers right away.

In Featured

Why Do Customers Choose Marigold Cannabis LTD?

March 1, 2023 No Comments

To avoid the danger of being duped, only buy cannabis from a reputable supplier. Marigolds Cannabis LTD was formed to accomplish this goal. Our dispensary in Vancouver, British Columbia’s capital city, is dedicated to providing the same quality of care you’ve come to expect from us.

Our service concentrates on providing high-quality advice and help to our clients, and we never lose sight of the importance of addressing their needs. Our trained staff is available to answer any questions you may have about our goods over the phone or in person.

Marigolds Cannabis LTD was founded on the belief that purchasing and selling cannabis should be as joyful as using it. Despite the sophisticated exterior of our company, we endeavor to serve each and every customer as if they were a member of our family. Simply walking by our dispensary in Vancouver, BC, will demonstrate that we are concerned about the needs of our community.

Make Use Of Marigolds Cannabis Ltd’s Services

Our dispensary in Vancouver, British Columbia, offers a diverse selection of goods. Every Friday, new items are added for your review. Marijuana’s cultural setting and present uses have shifted dramatically throughout time. As a result, staying on the bleeding edge of technology is critical.

In addition to the conventional selections of flowers, pre-rolls, and vapes, edibles are available if you want something that tastes as amazing as it makes you feel.

To provide you with the best service possible, we’ve joined other companies dedicated to growth and development. On our website, you may learn more about each of our brands and the products and services they provide. We guarantee to always provide you with accurate information on the things you purchase from us.

Our website and store are designed to make finding a certain product as easy as possible. Meanwhile, please browse the sale items and BC Grown products we have available. We work closely with the producers of the brands we supply to ensure that the things we sell are up to par and satisfy your expectations.

You can select from a variety of CBD, CBG, and CBN products here. If you are having difficulty obtaining the information you are looking for, please contact a member of our expert staff, who will be pleased to assist you in any way they can. There are numerous beverages available for your option.

Marigold Cannabis LTD: What Is It?

We are a legitimate dispensary in the Canadian province of British Columbia. North Delta, New Westminster, Coquitlam, Port Moody, and Port Coquitlam all have same-day shipping options. For an extra $10, food delivery is available until 7 p.m.

We offer free rapid delivery to destinations in Vancouver, UBC, and Burnaby, and we can deliver your order as late as 8:00 p.m. We provide free, same-day expedited delivery to the core business center until 10 p.m. Anxiety sufferers, in particular, may find this option extremely beneficial, and we recognize the possibility.

The Vancouver cannabis staff member you speak with will almost certainly be an industry specialist. We are Vancouver’s sole cannabis dispensary, and we only sell things that we would use ourselves. Marigolds Cannabis LTD wants you to be satisfied with your purchase. If you have any questions, please contact us.

Our ultimate goal is to provide you with the highest quality professional services available in the region.