The Art of Grating "Cheese Grater"

M.Aminur Rahman.

 Grating Expectations: Uncovering the Culinary Magic of the Cheese Grater:

Cheese, an ancient culinary delight cherished worldwide, has the incredible ability to elevate ordinary foods into extraordinary dishes. Its creamy, salty, and sometimes intense flavors can transform the simplest dish into a gourmet experience. Behind the scenes of this dairy's versatility stands a humble yet indispensable kitchen companion: the cheese grater.

A grating history

Before diving into the myriad uses of the cheese grater, let's take a trip back in time to uncover its history. The concept of grating cheese has been around for centuries, with early graters usually made from simple materials such as wood, metal, or stone. These early tools were often labor-intensive and a far cry from today's efficient grater. Fast forward to the 19th century, and we witness the invention of the first modern cheese grater. François Boullier, a Frenchman, introduced a breakthrough design consisting of a metal drum with sharp blades and a crank handle. This innovation revolutionized the cheese grater, making it not only more efficient but also safer and more consistent.

Types of Cheese Graters 

In today's culinary landscape, cheese graters come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and designs, each tailored to specific needs and preferences. Here are some common types: Box Grater: This classic grater boasts multiple sides with different-sized grating surfaces, perfect for a wide range of cheese textures as well as vegetables and other ingredients. Microplane Grater: Known for its ultra-fine grating capabilities, the Microplane Grater excels at fine shaving of hard cheeses like Parmesan as well as zesting citrus fruits.

Rotary Graters: 

A cousin of Francois Boullier's invention, rotary graters have a cylindrical drum that turns with a handle, making grating cheese effortless. Electric grater: For those looking for convenience, the electric cheese grater works at the push of a button, saving time and effort in the kitchen.

Culinary versatility:

The real magic of the cheese grater lies in its ability to transform cheese into different textures, from powdery fine to coarsely shredded, depending on the dish and the desired result. Here's how it can enhance your culinary creations Melting Mastery: Grated cheese melts more evenly and faster than cut or shredded cheese. Use it to create an ooey-gooey layer of cheese in lasagnas, casseroles, or homemade macaroni and cheese.

Finishing Touch:

 A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano can add depth and richness to pasta dishes, soups, and salads, adding a touch of flavor and sophistication.

Crunchy Toppers:

 For a crispy finish, bake grated cheese into lacy, delicious crisps that make great garnishes for salads or a delightful snack.

Zestyful Zesting:

 Beyond cheese, the microplane grater proves invaluable for grating citrus fruits or spices like nutmeg, adding brightness and complexity to your culinary creations.

Maintenance issues:

Caring for your cheese grater is essential to ensure its longevity and continued efficiency. Clean it regularly with a brush or soapy water to prevent residue build-up, which can affect the quality of your grated ingredients. Choose dishwasher-safe models for added convenience. In conclusion, the humble cheese grater may be one of the least valuable tools in your kitchen, but it plays an important role in enhancing your culinary expeditions. Its history, versatile design, and transformative capabilities make it a must-have for any aspiring chef or home cook. So, the next time you reach for that block of cheese, remember the unsung hero who helps you create culinary masterpieces—one grate at a time.

https://wwwcreativecanvascrafts.blogspot.com/

Unlocking the Enigmas of an Ancient Indian Mass Graveyard

 

                           Scientists estimate the presence of at least 500 graves at the 40-acre burial site in Gujarat

M.Aminur Rahman.

Researchers have made a remarkable discovery in India, unearthing an extensive burial site linked to one of the world's earliest urban civilizations. This archaeological revelation offers valuable insights into the lives and deaths of early Indians.

Back in 2019, as a team of researchers began excavating a sandy hill near a remote village in the sparsely populated Kutch region, located close to Pakistan in India's western state of Gujarat, they initially believed they were uncovering an ancient settlement. However, within a week, they realized they had stumbled upon a burial ground, according to Rajesh SV, a paleontologist from the University of Kerala, who led the excavation.

Over the course of three excavation seasons, involving more than 150 Indian and international researchers, they have explored a 40-acre site estimated to contain around 500 graves of the Indus civilization, one of the earliest urban civilizations worldwide. (Nearly 200 of these graves have been excavated.)

Also known as the Harappan civilization, named after its most prominent city, this society consisted of skilled farmers and traders who inhabited walled, brick-made cities. It rose to prominence nearly five millennia ago in what is now northwest India and Pakistan. In the century since its initial discovery, researchers have identified up to 2,000 sites in India and Pakistan associated with this civilization.

Excavations so far have yielded an intact male human skeleton

The sprawling graveyard near Khatiya village in Gujarat is believed to be possibly the largest "pre-urban" burial ground associated with the Indus civilization uncovered to date. Researchers suggest it was in use for approximately 500 years, spanning from 3200 BC to 2600 BC, with the oldest graves dating back around 5,200 years.

So far, excavations have yielded a well-preserved male human skeleton and partially preserved skeletal remains, including skull fragments, bones, and teeth. Additionally, burial artifacts have been discovered, such as more than 100 bangles and 27 shell beads. Ceramic vessels, bowls, dishes, pots, small pitchers, receptacles, clay pots, water cups, jars, and containers have also been found. Among the treasures are beads made from the semi-precious stone lapis lazuli.

The graves exhibit unique characteristics, including sandstone-lined burial pits oriented in various directions, some oval-shaped and others rectangular. Smaller graves containing the remains of children have been identified. Most of the bodies appear to have been laid flat, though many bones have decomposed due to the acidic soil.

Brad Chase, a professor of anthropology at Albion College, Michigan, considers this discovery to be of immense significance. He notes that while some pre-urban graveyards have been found in Gujarat, this one is the largest and has the potential to reveal a greater variety of burial types, providing a deeper understanding of pre-urban culture in the region and context for smaller burial grounds discovered previously.

                                Scientists have found an array of burial artifacts in the graves

Previous excavations of Indus sites in Pakistan's Punjab region have offered some insights into the burial practices of the Indus people. Their funerals were modest, unlike the elaborate burials of elites in Egypt and Mesopotamia. The deceased were typically wrapped in cloth and placed in rectangular wooden coffins. Ceramics were often placed in the grave pit as offerings before the coffin was lowered in. Some individuals were buried with personal ornaments like bangles, beads, and pendants. Certain women were even buried with copper mirrors. Adults were often interred with various types of vessels used for serving and storing food, along with specific ornaments like shell bangles, which were commonly found on the left arms of adult females. Infants and children were typically not buried with ceramics or ornaments.

The graves did not contain evidence of significant wealth, and the health profiles of the individuals suggest that most were well-nourished and healthy, although some displayed signs of arthritis and physical stress.

However, the mystery surrounding the massive cemetery in Gujarat remains. Researchers stumbled upon it by chance in 2016 when a village headman, who also worked as a driver, showed a group of University of Kerala paleontology students the site. It was located a mere 300 meters from Khatiya, a small village of 400 people known for rain-fed farming of groundnuts, cotton, and castor. Some of their farms bordered the cemetery.

The discovery has since attracted researchers from around the world to the village, all eager to learn more about the people buried at this site and its significance.

The recent graves in Gujarat raise many questions. Was this cemetery a shared resting place for nearby settlements, or does it suggest the presence of a larger settlement in the vicinity? Could it have served as a sacred burial ground for migratory travelers, given that the nearest source of lapis lazuli found in these graves likely traces back to distant Afghanistan? Alternatively, could it have functioned as a "secondary" burial site, where bones from the deceased were interred separately?

                       The graves have sandstone-lined burial shafts that point in different directions

Abhayan GS, an archaeologist at the University of Kerala, admits that they still lack answers. No settlement has been found in the area yet, but excavation continues.

Jonathan Mark Kenoyer, a researcher of the Indus Valley civilization at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, believes that there must be settlements associated with the graveyard, possibly lying beneath modern residences or yet to be discovered. The presence of stone walls around the burials suggests that the people had expertise in working with stone, and such stone structures and walled settlements are believed to be located between 19-30 kilometers (11-18 miles) from the burial ground.

Further chemical analyses and DNA testing of the human remains may reveal more about the lives and deaths of the earliest inhabitants of this region.

                      Up to 800 Indus sites have been found in Gujarat, including this one in Dholavira

Mysteries surrounding the Indus civilization persist, such as the undeciphered script. This winter, researchers plan to excavate a site north of the cemetery near Khatiya in hopes of uncovering a potential settlement. If they find one, it may solve part of the puzzle. If not, the excavation will continue. As Rajesh SV remarks, "One day, hopefully sooner rather than later, we will have some answers."

Photo collected from BBC News.

Russia Targets Vital Infrastructure, Grenade Causes Wagner Plane Crash, and Drone Attacks Escalate

 

M.Aminur Rahman.

"As temperatures plummet, Ukraine is likely to face exacerbated rocket strikes and increased destruction," she continued. "The combination of ongoing conflict, decimated infrastructure, and harsh weather patterns can pose a myriad of challenges for people in affected areas."A minimum of 51 civilians lost their lives on Thursday in a Russian missile attack on a village store in Groza, eastern Ukraine, possibly one of the deadliest recent assaults.This attack, which tragically claimed the life of a child, unfolded on the sidelines of a Ukrainian soldier's funeral.

President Zelenskyy strongly condemned the assault on the store and café in the town of Hroza, labeling it a "clearly brutal Russian crime" and "a deliberate act of terrorism."He implored Western allies to assist in bolstering Ukraine's air defenses, emphasizing the need to put an end to "Russian terror."

On Thursday, Russia's president asserted that the plane crash which claimed the life of Yevgeny Prigozhin was caused by an explosive device.He suggested that the mercenary leader may have also been under the influence of drugs.The infamous Prigozhin met his demise when his private plane crashed on August 23, two months after he initiated an unsuccessful uprising against the Kremlin.

In his most significant remarks since the incident, Putin insinuated that the plane was detonated from within, citing information from Russia's investigative council that he had received a few days prior."Remnants of hand grenades were discovered in the bodies of those killed in the crash," Putin informed an audience at the Valdai Discussion Club think-tank in the Black Sea resort of Sochi.There was no external impact on the plane - this is already an established fact," Putin remarked, challenging Western reports suggesting that the aircraft was downed.Putin did not elaborate on where the explosives might have been detonated on board but suggested that drugs and alcohol could have been involved. "Regrettably, no examination was conducted to determine the presence of alcohol or drugs in the victims' blood," Putin noted.He revealed that during searches of Wagner's offices in St. Petersburg, the FSB security service had discovered 10 billion rubles (€100 million) in cash and 5 kg (11 pounds) of cocaine.

Prigozhin's uprising posed one of the most significant challenges to Putin's rule since he assumed power in 1999. His mercenaries briefly seized the southern city of Rostov, a crucial military hub for Russia's operations in Ukraine, and advanced toward Moscow.It was ultimately quelled in a secretive arrangement facilitated by Belarus, though Western diplomats argue that it exposed Russia's concerns about the conflict in Ukraine.The Kremlin vehemently denies the notion that Putin had Prigozhin assassinated in retaliation.Russian authorities claimed on Thursday to have downed eight Ukrainian drones in western Russia, without mentioning any potential damage or injuries.

All of these drones were intercepted by Russian air defenses over the Belgorod and Kursk regions.Since Kyiv initiated its counter-offensive in June, Russia has accused Ukraine of targeting its territory with drones or artillery shells on an almost daily basis.With a few exceptions, most of these strikes lack clear military objectives and typically result in no casualties or damage, especially when they are frequently intercepted by Russian air defenses.

However, experts informed Euronews in September that there were strategic motivations behind Kyiv's drone campaign against Russia.

By Euronews with AFP

Employment opportunities expansion in August, hitting most significant level since May

 

M.Aminur Rahman.

The surge in job openings in the United States during August has raised questions about whether the labor market is cooling rapidly enough to appease the Federal Reserve, which is contemplating further interest rate hikes to combat inflation.

According to the latest Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS) report released on Tuesday, there were 9.6 million job openings at the end of August, an increase from the 8.92 million openings in July. Economists surveyed by Bloomberg had anticipated 8.82 million job openings for July.

The report also indicated a decline in the quit rate, a closely monitored metric by economists, as higher quit rates are seen as a sign of worker confidence. In August, the quit rate remained steady at 2.3%, the lowest since January 2021. The JOLTS report revealed that 5.9 million hires were made during the month, a slight uptick from the 5.8 million hires in the previous month.

This development may not be well-received by the Federal Reserve, as Chairman Jerome Powell has repeatedly emphasized the central bank's pursuit of a "better balance" between labor supply and demand.

"We anticipate this labor market rebalancing to continue," Powell stated in a speech at the Jackson Hole Economic Symposium in August. "Evidence that labor market tightness is not easing could necessitate a monetary policy response."

Stock markets reacted negatively to this news, with concerns about further tightening of monetary policy lingering in investors' minds. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite (^IXIC) experienced the most significant decline during the early morning session, dropping 1.4%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (^DJI) fell by 0.8%, or over 250 points, while the S&P 500 (^GSPC) dipped nearly 1.0%.

"The Fed continues to view [JOLTS] as a gauge of labor market conditions and, by all accounts, it tells us that labor market conditions remain tight," commented Nancy Vanden Houten, the lead US economist at Oxford Economics, in a research note. "The Fed won't base policy decisions on one JOLTS report, but it doesn't rule out the possibility of another rate hike."

Another assessment of the labor market is expected on Friday when the September jobs report is released. Speculations suggest it may show the addition of 170,000 jobs to the economy last month, with the unemployment rate expected to slightly decline to 3.7%.

 source-Josh Schafer Report from Yahoo Finance. 

A Clash of Titans: India vs. Australia in the 2023 Cricket World Cup

M.Aminur Rahman.

In the light of past history, cricket enthusiasts around the world are eagerly anticipating the clash between two cricketing giants, India and Australia, set to take place on 8th October 2023 in the Cricket World Cup. This matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter that will undoubtedly be etched into the annals of cricketing history.

The history of cricket's most prestigious tournament is replete with moments of glory, heartbreak, and fierce competition. Both India and Australia have played pivotal roles in shaping this history. From India's historic victory in 1983 to Australia's dominance in the late 1990s and early 2000s, these two teams have consistently delivered performances that have left cricket fans in awe.

The 2023 Cricket World Cup is expected to be no different. With the match scheduled on 8th October, cricket enthusiasts are counting down the days to witness these two cricketing powerhouses clash on the field. The anticipation surrounding this encounter is unparalleled, as both teams have showcased their prowess in limited-overs cricket over the years.

India, with its remarkable batting lineup and formidable bowling attack, has consistently been a force to reckon with in world cricket. The team's track record in ICC tournaments, including the World Cup, is impressive, and they are aiming to add another title to their collection in 2023. With the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Jasprit Bumrah, India boasts a formidable roster of talent.

On the other hand, Australia, with its rich cricketing heritage, has always been a formidable opponent. They have a history of stepping up their game in World Cup tournaments and have claimed the trophy multiple times. Led by Aaron Finch and boasting a strong pace attack, Australia is eager to prove their mettle once again on the world stage.

As the 8th of October approaches, cricket fans from all corners of the globe are preparing for a showdown that promises to be filled with intensity, passion, and cricketing brilliance. The venue, the pitch conditions, and the weather on the day will all play a crucial role in determining the outcome, but one thing is certain – both India and Australia will leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of victory.

This World Cup encounter is not just a cricket match; it's a clash of cricketing philosophies, a test of nerves, and an opportunity for players to etch their names in the history books. It's a chance for fans to come together, supporting their respective teams with unwavering loyalty and enthusiasm.

So, how is 8th October 2023 going to be? It will be a day when the cricketing world holds its breath, a day when India and Australia, fueled by their storied pasts, renew their rivalry on the grandest stage of them all. It will be a day that cricket fans will remember for years to come, regardless of the outcome, because it's not just a match; it's a celebration of the sport they love.

iPhone 15 overheating issues

 M.Aminur Rahman.

Apple has acknowledged the reports from buyers regarding the iPhone 15 and 15 Pro experiencing uncomfortably high temperatures. According to Forbes, the company has identified several factors contributing to this issue, including background activity, a bug in iOS 17, and certain third-party apps. Apple has stated that they are actively working towards a solution by means of a forthcoming software update and collaborating with app developers to address the problem.

In a statement, an Apple spokesperson explained, "We have identified a few conditions which can lead to the iPhone running warmer than expected. Upon initial setup or restoration, the device may feel warmer due to increased background activity." They further mentioned the iOS 17 bug impacting some users and assured that it will be rectified through a software update. Additionally, Apple acknowledged that recent updates to certain third-party apps have been overloading the system and assured users that fixes are being implemented in conjunction with the respective app developers.

The affected apps include Uber, Instagram, and Asphalt 9. It is advised to check for the latest version of Instagram, as Meta has already released a fix for it. Notably, the issue of overheating may be limited to specific combinations of apps and situations, as it has not been observed by all users (Engadget, for instance, did not encounter it in their review).

Apple has clarified that the problem does not stem from the titanium frame, as it provides superior heat dissipation compared to previous models with stainless steel frames. Furthermore, the company emphasized that the issue is unrelated to the A17 Pro chip and assured users that the upcoming fix will not compromise device performance. Lastly, Apple confirmed that the overheating is not related to high-power chargers, as the iPhone 15 fully adheres to USB-C PD standards and incorporates built-in protection to prevent damage caused by overheating. If you have experienced this issue, it is advised to remain patient as a solution is expected to be available soon.

SOME POINTS FOR EARNING MONEY THROUGH FREELANCING

 M.Aminur Rahman.

          Making money in the freelancing market can be achieved through a variety of simple and more complex tasks, depending on your skills and expertise. Here are 12 steps to get started with making money through freelancing:

1) Identify Your Skills: 

         Determine what skills or talents you possess that could be valuable to others. This could  include writing, graphic design, web development, digital marketing, data entry, video editing, and many more.

  2) Build Your Portfolio:

Create a portfolio that showcases your best work. This is essential to demonstrate your skills to potential clients. If you're just starting, consider   doing some  projects for free or at a reduced rate to build up your portfolio.

  3) Choose a Freelance Platform: 

There are many freelancing platforms where you can find work, such as Upwork, Freelancer.com, Fiverr, and many more. Sign up on one or more of  these platforms, complete your profile, and include  your portfolio.

  4) Set Your Rates: 

Determine how much you want to charge for your services. Research   what other  freelancers in your  niche are charging to get an idea of competitive   rates. Keep in mind that when you're starting,  you may need to offer lower rates to attract clients.

   

  5) Start Applying for Jobs: 

Browse through job listings on the freelancing   platform and start applying for jobs that match  your skills and interests. Write compelling proposals that highlight your expertise and how   you can add value to the client's project.

dfdfdf

 

  6) Deliver High-Quality Work: 

Once you secure a project, ensure that you  deliver high-quality work  on time. Satisfied clients are more likely to provide positive reviews and refer you to others.

  7) Build Your Reputation: 

Your reputation is crucial in the freelancing world. Encourage clients to leave reviews and ratings after completing a project. Consistently providing excellent service will help you build a positive reputation.

  8) Market Yourself: 

Beyond the freelancing platform, you can market   yourself through social media, personal websites, and networking. Building a personal brand and online presence can help attract clients directly.

  9) Expand Your Skills: 

Continuously learn and improve your skills. As you become more proficient, you can take on more  complex and higher-paying projects.

 10) Manage Finances: 

Keep track of your earnings and expenses, as you'll need to handle taxes as a freelancer. Consider consulting with an accountant or using accounting  software to manage your finances.

 11) Scale Your Freelancing Business: 

As you gain experience and build a client base, you can consider scaling your freelancing business

 12) Be Patient and Persistent: 

Success in freelancing takes time and persistence. Don't get discouraged by rejections or slow starts. Keep improving your skills and marketing efforts, and you'll likely see your freelancing income grow  over time.

       Remember that freelancing can be competitive, so it's essential to stand out by offering exceptional service and building strong client relationships. Over time, you can earn a substantial income through freelancing if you remain committed and continue to refine your skills and business strategies.

 

skills and business strategies.