Being notorious is ironic.
2020年12月27日星期日
Grandma
Nana, nanana, nana
I miss you, miss you so bad
I don't forget you, oh it's so sad
I hope you can hear me, I remember it clearly
I miss you, miss you so bad
I don't forget you, oh it's so sad
I hope you can hear me, I remember it clearly
The day you slipped away
Was the day I found it won't be the same
Was the day I found it won't be the same
Nana, nanana, nana
I didn't get around to kiss you, goodbye on the hand
I wish that I could see you again, I know that I can't
I hope you can hear me, 'cause I remember it clearly
I didn't get around to kiss you, goodbye on the hand
I wish that I could see you again, I know that I can't
I hope you can hear me, 'cause I remember it clearly
The day you slipped away
Was the day I found it won't be the same
Was the day I found it won't be the same
I've had my wake up, won't you wake up
I keep asking why?
And I can't take it it wasn't fake it
It happened you passed by
I keep asking why?
And I can't take it it wasn't fake it
It happened you passed by
Now you're gone, now you're gone
There you go, there you go
Somewhere I…
There you go, there you go
Somewhere I…
Destination after COVID-19
余光中︰「(我不是教徙)，卻最愛看廟看寺。在京都，我們流連佛寺我古風與禪味。在歐洲，我們仰瞻低徊的也盡是巍峨的教堂……所謂美，倒不一定要怎麼堂皇，像日本京都的禪寺，清靜雅潔，松竹幽深，香火肅穆，也能令人心折。」
2020年12月26日星期六
數唔係咁計
食物卡路里 (Input) 和運動所消耗的卡路里 (Output) 不需要相等。因為消化都需要能量，譬如身體要製造酵素 (Enzyme)，又例如腸臟蠕動 (Peristalsis) 、逆向 Osmosis 能量少不免。另一方面，不是得到多少血糖 (Blood Glucose)，經 Interstitial (細胞外) Fluid 再到細胞內就可以百分百用上，轉變成 ATP 的過程中一定有 Energy Loss. 打個比喻，一輛汽車入了電油，一定不會百分百轉化為動能，引擎肯定會有熱能消耗。
跟據一個台灣網站，一個六十公斤的成年人游泳四十五分鐘，只能消耗 270 卡路里。而一平碗白飯，大約有 220 卡路里。一個晚餐的餸菜，卡路里肯定多一個開。單看數字已經極不合理。
延伸閱讀︰
Calorie (大楷英文C) 的英文縮寫是 Cal, calorie (小楷英文c) 的英文縮寫是 cal。兩者的中文譯音都是「卡路里」，意思卻有所不同。Calorie是等於1 千個 calorie，由於1千 (1000) 這個數目可以用英文 kilo (縮寫 k) 來表達，因此1 Calorie 即是1 kcal。
1 Calorie (1 Cal) = 1000 calorie (1000cal) = 1 kilocalorie = 1kcal
1卡路里 = 1千卡
但中文名稱裡，沒有分「大楷卡路里」和「小楷卡路里」，我們一般所講1個卡路里，意思其實是1個 Calorie，即1個千卡。
1 kilocalorie (kcal) = 4.184 kilojoule (kJ)
1卡路里的定義就是將1kg的水升高溫度攝氏1度所需要的能量。
https://medicalinspire.com/web/posts/20054/【營養常識】到底卡路里是指什麼？原來cal和kcal意思/
2020年12月25日星期五
Commercial Christmas
耶誕本應是普天同慶的日子，政治動盪、疫情橫行，親人、朋友相聚一刻的機會亦已扼殺。一直以來，香港的聖誕節都是高度商業化。除了教徒，大家都只會覺得這是一個玩樂的藉口。今年零售業嚴重疲弱，各商家都看重聖誕檔期的本土消費。各大百貨公司人頭湧湧，私人派對禁不了，深深違反了防疫原則。如果變種病毒由酒店轉移到社區，後果不堪設想。
今個聖誕都是在工作中度過，一月中旬會由中華員工變由商務職員。
2020年12月24日星期四
2020年12月22日星期二
I'm with you
Isn't anyone trying to find me?
Won't somebody come take me home?
It's a damn cold night
Trying to figure out this life
Won't you take me by the hand?
Take me somewhere new
I don't know who you are
But I... I'm with you
I'm with you
2020年12月21日星期一
夢與現實
有一個夢重重覆覆，讓醒來的我也記得當中的片段。夢中，我知道自己有大學學位，但仍在中學上課，還時常在考我害怕的中文卷。現實中，香港大學護理學學士對我來說只是虛名，在職場上沒多大作用。在大學時期處理魯莽，有一次得罪醫院高層，很多同學都視我為麻煩製造者，他們覺得我破壞了校譽，集體杯葛我，頓時朋友銳減。言行小心，是付出了很多，才學到。職場上的是是非非，人前人後，雖然還有很多進步空間，但都算中規中矩，不適當的言語都不會出現在不適當的地方。
話說回頭，我曾申請報讀理工大學職業治療，但人家連面試機會都不給予，相信是因為我的中文成績。曾經歷高級程度會考的小弟，考DSE一定不會輸給現在這一輩。不過，我要用二年時間 Full Time 準備，加上讀大學，這個計劃的經費是天文數字。這個夢的出現大概是因為我心有不甘。雖說書店的工作不是甚麼低下的職業，但我志不在此，也不是專長所在。人生，有很多東西想得到，但需要有很大的決心，還有許多客觀條件箝制。不上班去上學，孤注一擲，職業治療師的執照也不是可以輕易考取。安於現狀，其實也是一個選擇。
2020年12月17日星期四
自私卻迫於無奈
外傭休假如果不留在雇主家中，可以到哪裡？她們離鄉背井，公眾假期與同鄉聚會本是人權，但是武漢肺炎大流行下，人人自危。疫苗不遠了，為何不可忍耐一下？百思不得其解。雇主或其他香港人是否可以做一個榜樣，冬至、耶誕、新年避免聚會呢？難道疫症殺到你住的那棟大廈才懂得驚驚青青？Panic 是不需要，至少要謹慎。
吸煙者煙癮發作，在公眾地方除口罩吞雲吐霧屢見不鮮。但是，可否等到工作後在家才吸煙？我不知道，因為本人不是煙民。可是，他們甘願冒被罰款的風險，煙癮不可看輕。戒煙是否一項易事？戒煙貼、戒煙口香糖是否真的有幫助？但研究指出加熱煙無助戒煙。
【港大研究發現加熱煙無助戒煙】
香港吸煙與健康委員會聯同香港大學學者率先公布本港加熱煙的調查數據，以及首個研究發現加熱煙無助吸煙人士戒煙的結果。
一項由香港大學護理學院副教授王文炳博士帶領進行的研究，於2018至19其間追蹤本港1,012名有意戒煙的吸煙人士六個月，結果發現加熱煙無助戒煙。約四成半（44%）吸煙人士使用加熱煙戒煙，然而六個月後成功戒煙的機會並沒有提高。另一方面，對比沒有使用戒煙服務的吸煙人士，有使用戒煙服務的成功戒煙機會在第六個月提高了七成（70%）。相關研究刊登於國際醫學期刊《煙草控制》。
(Source: HKU School of Nursing's Facebook Page)
2020年12月13日星期日
2020年12月12日星期六
余光中《讀夜》
「氫 (Hydrogen) 以為體，氦(Helium)以為魄。」
Nuclear fusion (原子核融合)
氫轉氦開始時需要極大能量，融合後核心質量會減少並釋出能量。
(Image: https://www.britannica.com)
Nuclear binding energy 越高代表核心越穩定，意味分拆該核心要很大能量。
2020年12月8日星期二
Rt tends to 1
Effective reproduction number at time (Rt) is the average number of secondary cases per one case at any given time. This number will vary as the outbreak progresses, and indicates real-time transmissibility. Effective control measures and behavioral changes, such as quarantine (檢疫隔離) enforcement, usage of face masks, travel restrictions, class suspensions, and social distancing, are all factors that may affect the Rt of a virus.
Rt = 1
Each infected patient will go on to infect one other person. Statistically, this would mean that one new infected patient will replace another who had recovered or passed away from the disease. This also suggests that the outbreak is stabilizing, with no changes in number of infected people over time.
something about music
原音樂及原音樂器是在20世紀電子音樂面世後，為了將傳統真實的、未經電子處理（或不是由電子信號產生音波）的樂器與之區別而衍生的返璞詞。英文中分別用了兩個詞來表示，一個是「acoustic」，原意為聲學但在這裡被引申為「由真實樂器天然地產生的（聲音）」；另一個「unplugged」則表示「不經電子處理的（樂器）」。
zh.wikipedia.org
The Midnight Duel
duel: a combat between two persons
groan: to utter a deep moan indicative of pain, grief, or annoyance
boastful: expressing excessive self-pride
hang-glider: a kitelike glider from which a harnessed rider hangs while gliding down from a cliff or hill
prod: to thrust a pointed instrument into
gloat: to observe or think about something with triumphant and often malicious satisfaction, gratification, or delight
triumphant: rejoicing for or celebrating victory
malicious: having or showing a desire to cause harm to someone
snatch: to attempt to seize something suddenly
scowl: to exhibit a threatening aspect
breeze: a light gentle wind
sway: to swing slowly and rhythmically back and forth from a base or pivot
hawk: any of numerous diurnal birds of prey belonging to a suborder (Falcones of the order Falconiformes) and including all the smaller members of this group
diurnal: biology : active chiefly in the daytime
twig: a small shoot or branch usually without its leaves
quaver: a tremulous sound
delighted: highly pleased
cork: a usually cork stopper for a bottle or jug
gasp: to catch the breath convulsively and audibly
wham: the loud sound of a hard impact
clutch: to grasp or hold with or as if with the hand or claws usually strongly, tightly, or suddenly
hobble: to move along unsteadily or with difficulty
dart: to throw with a sudden movement
glitter: to shine by reflection with many small flashes of brilliant light
nasty: disgustingly filthy
filth: foul or putrid matter
leap: to spring free from or as if from the ground
hover: to hang fluttering in the air or on the wing
soar: to fly aloft or about
aloft: at or to a great height
whoop: to utter a whoop in expression of eagerness, enthusiasm, or enjoyment
stun: to overcome especially with paralyzing astonishment or disbelief
sneer: to smile or laugh with facial contortions that express scorn or contempt
javelin: a slender usually metal shaft at least 260 centimeters long that is thrown for distance in an athletic field event
mingle: to bring or mix together or with something else usually without fundamental loss of identity
numb: unable to feel anything in a particular part of your body especially as a result of cold or anesthesia
stride: to move with or as if with long steps
wrench: to move with a violent twist
trot: to proceed briskly
miserable: being in a pitiable state of distress or unhappiness
bewildered: deeply or utterly confused or perplexed
perplexed: filled with uncertainty
burly: strongly and heavily built
clang: to make a loud metallic ringing sound
curse: to use profanely insolent language against
insolent: insultingly contemptuous in speech or conduct
slam: to shut forcibly and noisily
puzzlement: the state of being puzzled
crisp: notably sharp, clean-cut, and clear
peer: to look narrowly or curiously
stern: having a definite hardness or severity of nature or manner
reckon: consider
flank: to be situated at the side of
knuckle: the rounded prominence formed by the ends of the two adjacent bones at a joint —used especially of those at the joints of the fingers
scowl: to contract the brow in an expression of displeasure
overhear: to hear without the speaker's knowledge or intention
dodge: to move to and fro or from place to place usually in an irregular course
loom: to come into sight in enlarged or distorted and indistinct form often as a result of atmospheric conditions
creep: to move along with the body prone and close to the ground
ember: a glowing fragment (as of coal) from a fire
frown: to contract the brow in displeasure or concentration
hiss: to make a sharp sibilant sound
shrill: having or emitting a sharp high-pitched tone or sound
snuffle: to breathe through an obstructed nose with a sniffing sound
squint: of an eye : looking or tending to look obliquely or askance
snout: a long projecting nose (as of a swine)
mend: to put into good shape or working order again
flit: to pass quickly or abruptly from one place or condition to another
wink: to gleam or flash intermittently
chicken out: to decide not to do something because one is afraid
sniff: to inhale through the nose especially for smelling
lurk: to lie in wait in a place of concealment especially for an evil purpose
scurry: to move in or as if in a brisk pace
petrify: to make rigid or inert like stone
squeak: to utter or make a short shrill cry or noise
sprint: to run or go at top speed especially for a short distance
doorpost: an upright piece forming the side of a door opening
gallop: to run fast
tapestry: a heavy handwoven reversible textile used for hangings, curtains, and upholstery and characterized by complicated pictorial designs
pant: to breathe quickly, spasmodically, or in a labored manner
stitch: a local sharp and sudden pain especially in the side
rattle: to make a rapid succession of short sharp noises
cackle: to laugh especially in a harsh or sharp manner
bellow: to shout in a deep voice
duck: to lower the head or body suddenly
slam: to propel, thrust, or produce by or as if by striking hard
shan't: shall not
whoosh: a swift or explosive rush
swift: moving or capable of moving with great speed
rage: violent and uncontrolled anger
tug: to pull hard
quiver: to shake or move with a slight trembling motion
drool: to secrete saliva in anticipation of food
fang: a long sharp tooth
thunderous: making or accompanied by a noise like thunder
grope: to feel about blindly or uncertainly in search
trapdoor: a lifting or sliding door covering an opening (as in a roof, ceiling, or floor)
Dictionary: https://www.merriam-webster.com
2020年12月7日星期一
惡夢
幾天前夢見母親離世，半夜醒來，哭起來。事實上，父母與自己的永別遲早都會發生，這種悲哀一定要經過、經歷。
When I wake up in the middle of a dream, even when I close my eyes again, I can't go back to it. The world that was so clear in previous moment is now a phantom.
I'm running out of energy for this losing battle. If I forgot the days when I burned with love for you, I wouldn't be me. Tell me the right way to say goodbye.
My memories have suddenly seized me roughly and won't let go. I love you, still, deeply. A midsummer shower that won't stop falling.
In the never-ending, never-ending rain.
2020年12月2日星期三
Definition of Epidemiology
流行病學常與抗擊流行病的意念聯繫得太頻繁和太緊密：epi（上），demo（人）和 logos（要研究），實際上它包含了更廣泛的概念。
流行病學是對人類健康狀況或事件的分佈和決定因素之研究，並將其應用於控制健康問題。 流行病學的核心是使用量化方式研究人群中的疾病和危險因素。
Epidemiology is still too often and too closely associated with the idea of fighting epidemics: epi (upon), demos (the people), and logos (to study), it actually incorporates (納入) much wider concepts.
It is the study of the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events in human populations and the application of this study to the control of health problems. The core of epidemiology is the use of quantitative methods to study disease and risk factors in human populations.
Carr, S., Unwin, N. & Pless-Mulloli, T. (2nd Ed.) (2007). An introduction to public health and epidemiology. England: McGraw-Hill.
RTHK Report
"I think often of persecuted (迫害) peoples: the Rohingya (羅興亞人), the poor Uighurs (維吾爾人), the Yazidi (雅茲迪人)"
2020年11月29日星期日
Mental Health of Elderly under COVID-19
疫下長者抑鬱焦慮增加
香港大學社會工作及社會行政學系於今年2至8月，以電話訪問8,382名60歲或以上長者，發現93%長者減少社交活動，當中10%受訪者更出現抑鬱、焦慮徵狀。若他們要同時照顧認知障礙症患者，患抑鬱機會較其他照顧者高出一倍。
港大社會工作及社會行政學系系主任林一星解釋，疫情期間，長者需要搶購糧食、廁紙和排隊買口罩，可能使他們感到抑鬱、焦慮，引發情緒問題。
「賽馬會樂齡同行計劃」，由港大和多間社福機構合作改善長者晚年抑鬱問題，未來四年將覆蓋18區，讓義工能援助身邊有需要長者。
香港大學. (2020, November 24). 疫下長者抑鬱焦慮增加. https://fightcovid19.hku.hk/zh/疫下長者抑鬱焦慮增
2020年11月27日星期五
From James to Samson
話說中一的時候，老師要求我們改個英文名。有位長輩見我的中文名有個「陽」字，建議我稱自己為 Sunny，不過我就不太喜歡。我揭一揭字典，當時覺得 James 這個名字頗有美感，但沒有想到與邦先生撞名，於是便用上這個英文名。班上另一位同學叫 Sunny，他見我每天都回家吃午餐，覺得我十分幸福，所以幫我改了「劉少」這個花名，之後同學都以此別稱叫我。
升上中二，忽然覺得 James 這個英文名很土。有位同學叫 Samuel，為人風趣幽默，很受同學歡迎。所以，我就傻下傻下叫自己做 Samson. 我還記得那時叫May做阿嫂，我的預言對了，不過在中六我離校時才成真。當時 Ms Lai 對我改英文名的這個舉措有點意外。後來有位教英文的 native speaker 問我把長頭髮去了哪裡，才知道出事。
在聖經故事中，Samson 力大無窮，力量源自那束長頭髮。後來因為一個「色」字，終以悲劇收場。問題其實不大，因為大部分男人都是好色，只是程度不同，我亦不在此扮清高。到了中五的時候人人叫我「鮑魚」，花名的來歷、出處連我自己都弄不清楚，不過有一段時間這個花名有不雅成份。到了大專，大家都叫我 Samson，沿用至今。
2020年11月26日星期四
The Potions Master
tiptoe: the position of being balanced on the balls of the feet and toes with the heels raised —usually used with on
sweeping: moving or extending in a wide curve or over a wide area
rickety: lacking stability or firmness
tickle: to touch or stir gently
armour: defensive covering for the body
poltergeist: a noisy usually mischievous ghost held to be responsible for unexplained noises
rug: a piece of thick heavy fabric that usually has a nap or pile and is used as a floor covering
pelt: throw
sneak up on: to approach or act on stealthily
screech: to utter a high shrill piercing cry
conk: nose
dungeons: a dark usually underground prison or vault
scrawny: exceptionally thin and slight or meager in body or size
bulging: swelling or thrusting out from a surrounding or adjacent surface
wheeze: to breathe with difficulty usually with a whistling sound
herbology: herbal medicine
dumpy: being short and thick in build
drone on: to speak for a long time in a dull voice without saying anything interesting
scribble: to write or draw hastily or carelessly
charm: the chanting or reciting of a magic spell
squeak: a sharp shrill cry or sound
topple: to fall from or as if from being top-heavy
pointy: coming to a rather sharp point
ward off: to avoid being hit by (something)
zombie: a will-less and speechless human (as in voodoo belief and in fictional stories) held to have died and been supernaturally reanimated
stuff: to fill by packing things in
porridge: a soft food made by boiling meal of grains or legumes in milk or water until thick
nibble: to bite gently
flutter: to flap the wings rapidly
marmalade: a clear sweetened jelly in which pieces of fruit and fruit rind are suspended
scrawl: to write awkwardly or carelessly
awkward: lacking dexterity or skill (as in the use of hands)
quill: something made from or resembling the quill of a feather esp. a pen for writing
creepy: producing a nervous shivery apprehension
snigger: to laugh in a covert or partly suppressed manner
subtle: difficult to understand or perceive
simmer: to stew gently below or just at the boiling point
ensnare: to take in or as if in a snare
snare: something deceptively attractive
dunderhead: a slow-witted or stupid person
sneer: to smile or laugh with facial contortions that express scorn or contempt
scorn: open dislike and disrespect
contempt: lack of respect or reverence for something
fame: popular acclaim
bezoar: any of various calculi found chiefly in the gastrointestinal organs and formerly believed to possess magical properties
quiver: to shake or move with a slight trembling motion
wink: to shut one eye briefly as a signal or in teasing
snap: to break suddenly with a sharp sound
rummage: to engage in an undirected or haphazard search
haphazard: marked by lack of plan, order, or direction
fang: a long sharp tooth (snake)
hiss: to make a sharp sibilant sound
seep: to enter or penetrate slowly
drench: to wet thoroughly
idiot: a foolish or stupid person
spit: to utter with a spitting sound or scornful expression
nasty: mean
galoshes: (obsolete) a shoe with a heavy sole
frantic: emotionally out of control
scrabble: to struggle by or as if by scraping or scratching
boarhound: a large dog used in hunting wild boars
boar: an uncastrated male swine
quilt: a bed coverlet of two layers of cloth filled with padding (such as down or batting) held in place by ties or stitched designs
fierce: violently hostile or aggressive in temperament
drool: to let saliva dribble from the mouth
break-in: to enter something (such as a building or computer system) without consent or by force
vault: an arched structure of masonry usually forming a ceiling or roof
Source: https://www.merriam-webster.com
The First Take
This room I've gotten so used to
It's time to leave it now
Setting off on a new journey
still perplexed (困惑的) about it
In the bus headed for the station
I texted my friend
I called from the morning platform
But it felt kind of wrong
Just brought along one old guitar
I left all my photos behind
Let go of something to gain something else
Just a repetition of that?
Putting on a bold front
always leads to dreams
If you become afraid it ends there
In a train that's started to move
I became a little teary
This town, continuing beyond the window
I prayed it would stay unchanged
The one that gave me that old guitar
Said Tokyo is a scary place
I've decided to quit searching for answers
I'm fine with doing it all wrong
Buildings cut off the red sunset
Though I hold back the tears
Every time a new morning arrives
There are times when we're still in doubt, right?
There are times when we're still in doubt, right?
That much I know
AL-Nobody's Home
Well, I couldn't tell you
Why she felt that way,
She felt it every day.
And I couldn't help her,
I just watched her make
The same mistakes again.
What's wrong, what's wrong now?
Too many, too many problems.
Don't know where she belongs,
Where she belongs.
She wants to go home,
But nobody's home.
It's where she lies
Broken inside.
With no place to go,
No place to go to dry her eyes.
Broken inside.
Open your eyes
And look outside,
Find the reasons why.
You've been rejected,
And now you can't find
What you've left behind.
Be strong, be strong now.
Too many, too many problems.
Don't know where she belongs,
Where she belongs.
She wants to go home,
But nobody's home.
It's where she lies
Broken inside.
With no place to go,
No place to go to dry her eyes.
Broken inside.
Her feelings she hides.
Her dreams she can't find.
She's losing her mind.
She's fallen behind.
She can't find her place.
She's losing her faith.
She's fallen from grace.
She's all over the place.
She wants to go home,
But nobody's home.
It's where she lies,
Broken inside.
With no place to go,
No place to go to dry her eyes.
Broken inside.
She's lost inside, lost inside, oh oh oh.
She's lost inside, lost inside, oh oh oh.
2020年11月25日星期三
Animal farm and cultural revolution
拿破崙讓人看來反對興建風車，那是因為這是除掉雪球的一種手段。
Napoleon had seemed to oppose the windmill, simply as a manoeuvre to get rid of Snowball, who was a dangerous character and a bad influence.
毛澤東號召這一場革命的心理狀態至今仍令人費解……中共政權第一代黨政軍領導人除總理周恩來外，幾乎全數在這一波大整肅中遭到波及。
薛化元《中國近代史》
2020年11月22日星期日
為朋友翻譯
情緒為主導的應對方法可以改變一個人對壓力源的感覺，減少了壓力源帶來的情緒影響，並有可能有效地解決問題。
Emotion-focused coping is a strategy that involves changing the way a person feels or emotionally reacts to a stressor. This reduces the emotional impact of the stressor and makes it possible to deal with the problem effectively.
有時候，問題為中心的應對方法無法控制壓力源。情緒為主導的應對方法便是另類方案。
Emotion-focused coping also works for stressors that are uncontrollable and for which problem-focused coping is not possible.
當一個人可以積極地解決問題時，忽略問題並不是一個好策略。 但是，當無法更改或消除壓力源時，或者擔心壓力源本身就是一個問題時，忽略該問題並不是一個壞主意。
Ignoring a problem is not a good strategy when there is something a person can actively do about solving the problem. But when it is not possible to change or eliminate the stressor, or when worrying about the stressor can be a problem itself, ignoring the problem is not a bad idea.
俗話說「笑是最好的藥」，使用幽默也可以是一種以情緒為中心的應對方式。 在一項研究中，觀看幽默視頻可以增強免疫系統的防禦。
Using humor can also be a form of emotion-focused coping, as the old saying "laughter is the best medicine" suggests. In a study, watching humor video can boost the action of the immune system.
Ciccarelli, S. K. (2006). Psychology. Pearson.
2020年11月17日星期二
所謂新科技
In a new support document posted to its website last week, Apple told users they should always make sure to remove any wallet accessories from the back of their phones before using the new MagSafe charger. The connection could damage your credit card, passport, work badge or any other item with a radio chip or magnetic strip, Apple said.
"Before you place your iPhone on your MagSafe Charger, make sure that no objects (like credit cards, hotel key cards, or transit cards) or debris are between them. If your device has a metal case or if it's very thick, remove it. Also remove iPhone Leather Wallet with MagSafe," Apple said in its support document. "If you have a MagSafe case, you can leave it in place."
Sherr, I. (2020, October 26). Apple's iPhone MagSafe charger could ruin your credit card, passport or security badge. https://www.cnet.com/news/magsafe-on-iphone-12-i-still-want-usb-c-but-i-was-wrong-about-apple-magnetic-charger/
珍惜書本
曾經有一位中學歷史科老師對我們說︰「我手執的書本已用上七、八年，外觀比你們的還要新淨。」
曾經有一位店長要求我們不可直接在書本上墊紙書寫，不經不覺成為自己的習慣。
曾經在貨倉工作時，看到同事坐在一疊書本上看手機，自己心有不滿。
有另一個同事，自小受父親薰陶，愛上閱讀，家中藏書甚多。他見書如見剛去世的父親。別的分店遭破壞，多個月後，我、他和裝修阿頭傾開，他竟然說書比人重要。我和裝修阿頭都正路地覺得沒有一樣東西比人命更珍貴，他便哭起來。師父安慰他，人生歷練較淺的我沒有多說半句。
最近我在社區店工作，發覺到小朋友對於書本的破壞力不容忽視。物質太豐富，多獨生子女，家長不懂教，教不到，或者根本不想教。我們唯有用膠袋包高危書籍，地球生病了！
2020年11月16日星期一
Temple and Shrine
In the simplest terms, temples are Buddhist, while shrines are Shinto (神道). Temples have a large incense burner and many Buddhist statues, and may or may not have a graveyard attached to them, while shrines have a large, often vermilion red (朱紅的), torii (鳥居), or sacred gate, standing in front of them.
https://matcha-jp.com/
Billion
The old UK meaning of a billion was a million million, or one followed by twelve noughts (1,000,000,000,000). The USA meaning of a billion is a thousand million, or one followed by nine noughts (1,000,000,000)...The UK government has been using the American meaning of billion since 1974 for the numbers it gives out.
http://www.plainenglish.co.uk
2020年11月12日星期四
gloves (blog for self use)
手套分很多種，今日想討論的主要是即棄乳膠手套 (latex gloves)，是市民於新冠肺炎當道下最常使用，商舖、食肆收銀員對它絕對不陌生。雖然我今天探討不是醫用無菌手套，但它的某些使用守則能應用在乳膠手套上。重點在除手套時應盡量避免碰到 bare hand，除手套後必須洗手，但都不是萬能。讓我簡單說明三個步驟︰
i) 將手套逐一除下，首先用一隻手抓住另一隻手套的外層 (手腕位)，然後將手套從手上剝下，將手套 inside out。
ii) 用仍然戴手套的一隻手持續握住另一隻已取出的手套
iii) 將無手套的手之三兩隻手指插入未脫的手套之袖口內層，然後從內部剝離，形成由兩隻手套 create 的袋子
當然，除手套後要妥善棄掉，之後以肥皂或含甘油的酒精洗手。話說我自己當學護的時候，導師曾批評救護員常戴著乳膠手套四處碰，又見不到他們常換手套，搶救緊急不是藉口吧！這一批評同樣適用於收銀員上，不能用到破才換新的，相信雇主不會在風頭火勢的時候吝嗇。而且，收銀員又豈只碰錢，不更換都應該定時消毒一下。不更換不消毒的結果是員工受保護，顧客受災。
2020年11月8日星期日
2020年11月2日星期一
The Sorting Hat
stern: having a definite hardness or severity of nature or manner
drone: a deep sustained or monotonous sound
peer: to look narrowly or curiously
banquet: an elaborate and often ceremonious meal for numerous people often in honor of a person
dormitory: a room for sleeping
linger: to be slow in parting or in quitting something
cloak: a loose outer garment
smudge: to soil as if by smudging
jolt: an abrupt, sharp, jerky blow or movement
wig: a manufactured covering of natural or synthetic hair for the head
doom: a judicial condemnation or sentence
glide: to move smoothly, continuously, and effortlessly
glance: to take a quick look at something
ruff: a large round collar of pleated muslin or linen worn by men and women of the late 16th and early 17th centuries
glittering: shining with many bright points of light
velvety: having the character of velvet as in being soft, smooth, thick, or richly hued
velvet: a clothing and upholstery fabric (as of silk, rayon, or wool) characterized by a short soft dense warp pile
hued: colored—usually used in combination
patch: to mend, cover, or fill up a hole or weak spot in
mend: to free from faults or defects
frayed: worn or shredded at the ends or edges
twitch: to move jerkily
rip: to tear or split apart or open
brim: an upper or outer margin
sleek: smooth and glossy as if polished
dwell: to remain for a time
chivalry: the qualities of the ideal knight
toil: long strenuous fatiguing labor
wit: the ability to relate seemingly disparate things so as to illuminate or amuse
cunning: dexterous or crafty in the use of special resources (such as skill or knowledge) or in attaining an end
dexterous: mentally adroit and skillful
adroit: having or showing skill, cleverness, or resourcefulness in handling situations
applause: marked commendation
wrestle: to move, maneuver, or force with difficulty
queasy: causing uneasiness
parchment: the skin of a sheep or goat prepared for writing on
pigtail: a lock of hair that has been gathered and banded or braided together at the back or side of the head
stumble: to walk unsteadily or clumsily
scuttle: scurry: to move in or as if in a brisk pace
catcall: the act or an instance of loudly or raucously expressing disapproval (as at a sports event)
groan: to utter a deep moan indicative of pain, grief, or annoyance
gale: an emotional outburst
swagger: to conduct oneself in an arrogant or superciliously pompous manner
hiss: to make a sharp sibilant sound
sibilant: having, containing, or producing the sound of or a sound resembling that of the s or the sh in sash
crane: to stretch toward an object of attention
plunge: to cause to penetrate or enter quickly and forcibly into something
peculiar: different from the usual or normal
turban: a headdress worn chiefly in countries of the eastern Mediterranean and southern Asia consisting of a long cloth that is wrapped around a cap (as by Muslims) or directly around the head (as by Sikhs and Hindus)
pompous: excessively elevated or ornate
scroll: a roll (as of papyrus, leather, or parchment) for writing a document
Yorkshire pudding: a puffy bread dish made from a batter of eggs, flour, and milk that is baked in meat drippings
gravy: a sauce made from the thickened and seasoned juices of cooked meat
humbug: hard usually peppermint-flavored candy
miff: to put into an ill humor
behead: to cut off the head of
gaunt: excessively thin and angular
treacle: a blend of molasses, invert sugar, and corn syrup used as syrup
éclair: a usually chocolate-frosted oblong pastry filled with whipped cream or custard
trifle: a dessert typically consisting of plain or sponge cake often soaked with wine or spirits (such as brandy or rum) and topped with layers of preserves, custard, and cream
drown: to suffocate by submersion especially in water
meringue: a dessert topping consisting of a baked mixture of stiffly beaten egg whites and sugar
absurd: extremely silly or ridiculous
sallow: of a grayish greenish yellow color
an awful lot: a large amount
out of bounds: outside the prescribed or conventional boundaries or limits
mutter: to utter sounds or words indistinctly or with a low voice and with the lips partly closed
frown: a wrinkling of the brow in displeasure or concentration
scab: a crust of hardened blood and serum over a wound
fluff: down
rot: deteriorate
chatter: to utter rapid short sounds suggestive of language but inarticulate and indistinct
portrait: a pictorial representation of a person usually showing the face
tapestry: a heavy handwoven reversible textile used for hangings, curtains, and upholstery and characterized by complicated pictorial designs
poltergeist: a noisy usually mischievous ghost held to be responsible for unexplained noises
wicked: morally very bad
clutch: to grasp or hold with or as if with the hand or claws usually strongly, tightly, or suddenly
cackle: to laugh especially in a harsh or sharp manner
armor: : defensive (metal) covering for the body esp. used in combat
reveal: to open up to view
scramble: to move with urgency or panic
cosy: enjoying or affording warmth and ease
squash: to flatten out under pressure or impact
2020年10月28日星期三
學習
有次和爸爸吃飯，談天說地講到興起時，他說我不夠厚道。字典對「厚道」的解釋是「誠懇寬厚」。寬厚不容易學習。言語上有厚道難，待人處事有厚道難，打從心底亦做到有厚道更難。可能我年紀尚輕，還未能夠充分掌握。
作為一個書店店員，接觸到不少無理的客人，財大氣粗可能是原因之一。自己也接觸到不少在金錢上斤斤計較的客人，大家可以稱他們為精明消費者，我們亦知道錢不容易賺取，但我覺得當中的禮貌和態度同樣重要。我發覺到在社區中精神失常的客人比一年前多得很，應對有一定困難。
對客人「誠懇寬厚」，在我看來，與同理心 (empathy) 有莫大關係，我們要學習設身處地，站在別人的位置去感受。例如昨天，有家長致電，她的小朋友遺失了教科書。因為我們不負責該校訂書，按常理不會跟進。不過，家長說在別的分店查到我們有現貨，她又道希望我們不要讓小朋友難做。所以，我便為家長留電話，請負責教科書的同事跟進。
耳念珠菌
本港自去年6月出現首宗耳念珠菌（Candida auris）海外輸入個案，至今累計約160宗。截至今年10月，個案較去年增加6倍，涉九龍西聯網的瑪嘉烈醫院、北大嶼山醫院、仁濟醫院，當中兩名患者出現尿道管感染及真菌血症。因應瑪嘉烈及仁濟於今年7月再現爆發，醫管局下周二（27日）會在全港急症醫院進行篩查，檢視帶有或感染多重耐藥性細菌（MDRO）病人涉耳念珠菌情況，料涵蓋約2000名住院病人。
(news.mingpao.com)
耳念珠菌是一種真菌，它首次發現於2009年，是在日本東京都老年醫院一位70歲的日本女性的耳道中分離出來的。耳念珠菌可引起侵襲性念珠菌病，如念珠菌菌血症、心包炎、泌尿道感染和肺炎等。念珠菌是廣泛存在自然環境的真菌，常見於口腔、消化道、皮膚及女性陰道。
(Wikipedia and Google Search)
Pretend Play
想像遊戲 (imaginative play) 即表徵遊戲 (symbolic play)、 假裝遊戲 (pretend play, make-believe play) 和戲劇遊戲 (dramatic play)，意指非語言的活動或是幼兒以假想A物表現B物、或扮演他人角色的真實遊戲行為 (Fein, 1981; Rubin, Fein, & Vandenberg, 1983; Pellegrini & Boyd, 1993)。
Information: ntcuir.ntcu.edu.tw
對傳媒的控訴
校長張翔向港大師生及校友發信，表示即使他與申作軍及宮鵬，在加州大學柏克萊分校共事，但學術領域並不一樣，除了在校園見過幾次面，在公在私並無聯絡，自己作為遴選委員會主席，已採取所有必須步驟，避免潛在衝突，又重申大學在遴選過程中，有嚴格的守則防止利益衝突。
張翔表示，過去幾日不幸地洩漏遴選過程資料，引起爭議及推測，有關傳言及憂慮不只對香港社會造成困擾，亦令人選及其家人帶來痛苦。他表示，大學有道德及法律責任，確保候選人的資料在遴選過程中保密，洩漏候選人資料，不只傷害港大的聲譽，亦影響大學未來招聘人才的工作。
他又說，自己作為大學的領導者，一直提醒要對港大及香港負責任，願意聆聽不同意見，但希望全部討論均基於事實，而非推測。
https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/ch/component/k2/1556957-20201027.htm
Dear Colleagues, Students and Alumni,
Appointment of Two Vice-Presidents
The University of Hong Kong is committed to attracting outstanding academic talents from around the world. Facing fierce (激烈的) competition from the world's top universities, we recruit talented individuals based on their own merits, irrespective of race, nationality, gender, place of origin, political orientation or religious belief.
You may be aware the University Council has just resolved to appoint two Vice-Presidents, Professor Max Shen of UC Berkeley as VP Research and Professor Peng Gong of Tsinghua University as VP Academic Development. They are both world-class scholars and institutional leaders. During the last few days, unfortunately, a leakage of information of the selection process has given rise to a series of controversies (and speculations 猜測) in the local media. The leakage-caused rumors and anxiety not only have caused confusion in Hong Kong society, but also caused pain to the candidates and their families.
I am sure you would agree that we have a moral and legal duty to keep the candidates' information confidential during the selection process. The leakage of personal information of a candidate would inevitably not only injure the reputation of our University, but also affect our future recruitment of talents to Hong Kong.
In the light of the recent news reports and related controversies, I am obliged (強制) to give you the relevant information so you could have a better understanding of the facts related to the key issues (my apologies for not being able to give you such information earlier as I am bound by the same confidentiality code before Council's decision).
There are some news reports on the background of Professor Max Shen. Professor Shen has written to the Council and issued a public statement in response to the news reports and related rumors. I have attached to this email his statement and also the response from his current employer, University of California at Berkeley, to the inquiries of the Hong Kong media.
There were other news reports citing an online anonymous accusation (指控) against Professor Peng Gong. Professor Gong has issued a statement to the respective media which is attached here for your reference. I have also attached messages from two prominent professors who are familiar with the incident as testimonies.
Regarding the selection process, the University has stringent (嚴格的) rules to prevent conflict of interest. Although Professor Shen, Professor Gong and I have all taught at Berkeley, our academic disciplines are different, and save for bumping into one another a few times at campus events, we have not had any other contact, whether in a personal or work capacity. As Chairman of the Selection Committee, I have taken all necessary steps to avoid all potential conflicts. I am grateful to other committee members for giving me the great support.
As Interim Provost (臨時院長) and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, it is Professor Richard Wong's role and duty to be involved in the selection of senior management team members. I wish to point out that this is not the first time Professor Wong had taken up the Provost post. He was selected for the Provost post by the Search Committee in 2004 and served for six years.
As you may know, our search committees include many colleagues with international academic standing, as well as a member from the Council and a student representative. I would like to thank all of them here for their contributions and support in the long selection process.
As the leader of the University, I keep reminding myself that I am accountable to both the members of the HKU family as well as Hong Kong at large. I am willing to listen to different views and comments. But I also hope all of our discussions could be based on facts, not just speculations. Let's work together to bring HKU to a higher level.
Xiang Zhang (Professor)
President and Vice-Chancellor
2020年10月23日星期五
My lipid profile
Atorvastatin reduces total-C (total cholesterol), LDL-C (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol), and apo B (apolipoprotein B). Atorvastatin also reduces VLDL-C (very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) and TG (triglycerides) and produces variable increases in HDL-C (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol).
Before instituting therapy with atorvastatin, an attempt should be made to control hypercholesterolemia with appropriate diet, exercise and weight reduction in obese patients, and to treat underlying medical problems. The patient should continue on a standard cholesterol-lowering diet during treatment with atorvastatin.
Doses may be given any time of the day, with or without food.
Total cholesterol: 8.3 mmol/L (Margin: 5.2)
Triglycerides: 1.05 mmol/L (Margin: 1.7)
HDL: 1.74 mmol/L (Levels should be above 1 in men)
LDL: 6.1 mmol/L (Margin: 3.4)
療程︰Atorvastin 20 mg (每日一粒) 先服兩個月
(參考資料︰MIMS, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
2020年10月13日星期二
新地杯裝熱粟米
5號塑膠為PP (polypropylene，聚丙烯)，材質韌性佳、可抗酸鹼、耐熱(100-140℃)，因此廣泛使用於日常生活中，諸如豆(米)漿瓶、微波容器、吸管、垃圾桶、水桶、洗衣袋、針筒、防護衣、汽車或電器製品等。PP並無口服毒性，也不會增加人類罹癌的機會，因此在塑膠容器中為較理想的食品容器材質。
楊振昌. (n.d.). 愈方便愈不安全 潛藏在你身邊的隱形殺手. 台灣癌症基金會. https://www.canceraway.org.tw/page.asp?IDno=1759
2020年10月8日星期四
Platform Nine and Three-Quarters
grunt: the deep short sound characteristic of a hog
hog: domesticated swine
howl: to emit a loud sustained doleful sound characteristic of members of the dog family
growl: to utter a growl
ruddy: reddish
robe: a long flowing outer garment
trunk: a large rigid piece of luggage used usually for transporting clothing and personal effects
dump: to let fall in or as if in a heap or mass
nasty: disgustingly filthy
filth: foul or putrid matter
desperate: having lost hope
stride: to stand astride
strand: to leave in a strange or an unfavorable place especially without funds or means to depart
plump: having a full rounded usually pleasing form
swarm: to move or assemble in a crowd
gangling: tall, thin, and awkwardly built
jostle: to exist in close proximity
wrought-iron: a commercial form of iron that is tough, malleable, and relatively soft, contains less than 0.3 percent and usually less than 0.1 percent carbon, and carries 1 or 2 percent of slag mechanically mixed with it
drift: to cause to be driven in a current
chatter: to utter rapid short sounds suggestive of language but inarticulate and indistinct
hoot: to make the natural throat noise of an owl or a similar cry
dreadlock: a narrow ropelike strand of hair formed by matting, braiding, or twisting
shriek: to utter a sharp shrill sound
shrill: scream
shove: to push along
heave: lift, raise
pant: to breathe quickly, spasmodically, or in a labored manner
blimey: gorblimey
gorblimey: used to express amazement, surprise, or perplexity
gawp: gawk
gawk: to gape or stare stupidly
jerk: to give a quick suddenly arrested push, pull, or twist to
billow: to bulge or swell out
stern: having a definite hardness or severity of nature or manner
clamber: to climb awkwardly or with effort especially by using both the hands and the feet
awkward: lacking dexterity or skill
glance: to take a quick look at something
tarantula: a spider
blurt: to utter abruptly and impulsively
fringe: band
band: the front section of a person's hair when it is cut short and worn over the forehead —usually used in plural
gloomy: lacking in promise or hopefulness
live up to: to act or be in accordance with
dimple: (anatomy) a slight natural indentation in the surface of some part of the human body
rattling; to an extreme degree
pasty: a meat pie
corned beef: beef that has been preserved in salt water
swap: to give in trade
crooked: not straight
alchemy: a medieval chemical science and speculative philosophy aiming to achieve the transmutation of the base metals into gold, the discovery of a universal cure for disease, and the discovery of a means of indefinitely prolonging life
tenpin bowling: a game in which players try to knock down 10 pins (standing pieces) by rolling a large ball towards them
marmalade: a clear sweetened jelly in which pieces of fruit and fruit rind are suspended
rind: a usually hard or tough outer layer
tripe: stomach tissue especially of a ruminant (such as an ox) used as food
nibble: to eat or chew in small bits
wail: to make a sound suggestive of a mournful cry
miserable: being in a pitiable state of distress or unhappiness
rummage: to make a thorough search through
battered: damaged or worn down by hard use
glint: of rays of light
unicorn: a mythical, usually white animal generally depicted with the body and head of a horse with long flowing mane and tail and a single often spiraled horn in the middle of the forehead
mellow: of a fruit: tender and sweet because of ripeness
witchcraft: the use of sorcery or magic
stun: to make senseless
dud: one that is ineffectual
flop: to move or drop heavily or noisily
whisker: one of the long projecting hairs or bristles growing near the mouth of an animal
prickle: a fine sharp process or projection
dumbfounded: to confound briefly and usually with astonishment
thickset: having a thick body
riffraff: disreputable persons
sneer: to smile or laugh with facial contortions that express scorn or contempt
lurk: to lie in wait in a place of concealment especially for an evil purpose
scowl: to contract the brow in an expression of displeasure
sniffy: having or expressing a haughty attitude
glare: to stare angrily or fiercely
peer: to look narrowly or curiously
trainer: sneaker
sneaker: a sports shoe with a pliable rubber sole
throng: a multitude of assembled persons
bob: to move up and down in a short quick movement
stumble: to walk unsteadily or clumsily
turret: a little tower
Buffer system of our body
現時世衞並無就飲用水的酸鹼值與健康的關係下定論。無論這些飲用水是偏酸或偏鹼，其濃度相比其他飲品(例如汽水、橙汁)或食物為低。故一般而言，飲用水比如蒸餾水、礦泉水，我們的身體可以自我調節，控制體液酸鹼度，因此大家毋須擔心。
鹼性水由電解水機製造出來，故稱為電解水。其原理是依據「電化學」與「電解」原理，採用鈦白金或其他合金材料，作為製造電解槽之電極板。鹼性水含礦物質的種類與礦泉水相似。
坊間對鹼性水的功效有許多說法，例如用作治療癌症，但現時未有實質科學研究證實有關講法。另外，也有研究顯示鹼性水能中和胃酸令胃酸倒流的情況改善，但目前需要更多研究支持。
鑽石能量水是以濾心淨化自來水的食水，並同時把水礦化，所以鑽石能量水含有一些弱鹼性的礦物質。這款水聲稱可改善健康，但現未有確實。
topick.hket.com (2017)
延長壽命的迷思
Coenzymes are derived from several members of a special class of nutrients known as vitamins. For example, the coenzyme NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is derived from the B-vitamins niacin. As we will see, it plays major role in energy metabolism by transferring hydrogen from one substrate to another.
Widmaier, E.P., & Raff, H. (2008). Vander’s Human Physiology: The Mechanisms of Body Function. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.
NAD+ is a cosubstrate for other enzymes such as the sirtuins and poly(adenosine diphosphate–ribose) polymerases. Cellular NAD+ concentrations change during aging, and modulation (調整) of NAD+ usage or production can prolong both health span and life span. Here we review factors that regulate NAD+ and discuss how supplementation with NAD+ precursors may represent a new therapeutic opportunity for aging and its associated disorders, particularly neurodegenerative diseases.
Verdin, E. (2015). NAD+ in aging, metabolism, and neurodegeneration. American Association for the Advancement of Science, 350(6265), 1208-1213.
Sirtuins are a conserved family of proteins found in all domains of life. The first known sirtuin, Sir2, regulates ribosomal DNA recombination, gene silencing, DNA repair, chromosomal stability and longevity. Sir2 homologues (同系物) also modulate lifespan in worms and flies, and may underlie (構成…的基礎) the beneficial effects of caloric restriction, the only regimen that slows aging and extends lifespan of most classes of organism, including mammals. Sirtuins have gained considerable attention for their impact on mammalian physiology, since they may provide novel targets for treating diseases associated with aging and perhaps extend human lifespan. In this review we describe our current understanding of the biological function of the seven mammalian sirtuins, SIRT1–7, and we will also discuss their potential as mediators of caloric restriction and as pharmacological targets to delay and treat human age-related diseases.
Michan, S., & Sinclair, D. (2007). Sirtuins in mammals: insights into their biological function. Biochemical Journal, 404(1), 1–13.
Image: www.watsons.com.hk
2020年10月3日星期六
千年繁華
There's also the Kyoto Heritage Preservation Association's Autumn Special Exhibit, when 20 or so historic structures generally closed to the public - like Toji's (教王護國寺) five-storey pagoda (佛塔) - open their doors...The Autumn Special Exhibit takes place over roughly 10 days in late October and early November (for details see www.kobunka.com). This is a rare opportunity to see important works of art on temple walls and sliding doors that, for preservation reasons, can't be shown year-round. The places that open are different each year.
Morgan, K., & Milner R. (2018). Lonely Planet Kyoto. Lonely Planet.
2020年9月28日星期一
法治之象徵
At the court's opening in January 1912, the Chief Justice rather presciently (先見地) declared, "When Victoria has ceased to be a city, when the harbour has silted up (淤塞), when even the Hong Kong Club has crumbled (碎裂) away, this building will remain like a pyramid to commemorate (紀念) the genius of the Far East."
Spurrier, P. (2016). The Heritage Hiker's Guide to Hong Kong. Hong Kong: Form Asia.
2020年9月23日星期三
2020年9月18日星期五
《兒童樂園》
我們為了「變」，為了所謂「追上時代」，往往忘記了其實中外古今，都應該存在種種永恆的主題。這些主題，是人類無法擺脫的，例如︰愛、生死、正義是非……兒童心中，最早最純化的就有這些母題。從小就培養，強化這些理念，長大後面對各種醜惡、歪曲、悲憤，都可以頂得住。所以，兒童必須有個「樂園」。
Image: www.am730.com.hk
小思《悼「樂園」》
一九九五年
2020年9月13日星期日
Sports Limitation
科學一點的做法是計算最高心跳率。以前中學時期練跑邊有此等裝備，往往靠自己感覺，感覺到了極限就停下來。但是，這種感覺都是日子有功，慢慢掌握拿捏出來的。疫情之前，到室內游泳池操水，何時停低休息，也是用同一種方式、同一種做法，只是陸上和水中的分別。如果要真正收效，可能要比極限高少少，但我只會在休假時運動，此等做法乃屬高危。
現在防疫措施放寬了，戶外跑步可以唔戴外科口罩。可是，因工作關係，雙膝出現輕微勞損，練跑隨時出事。沒有帶氧運動，身體差了少少，只能靠健康飲食、良好作息時間來彌補。難道要跟著電視電玩做健身操、耍太極、拉拉筋？
負傷的銅獅
「不是吳冠中在文章裡提到，我並不知道那對銅獅是國立杭州藝專的外籍教授魏達所作，遠在一九三五年，林風眠當校長的時代。果然，W.W. Wagstaff 的簽名，深深刻在銅座上。」
小思《看銅獅去》
—— 刊一九九四年一月十九日《星島日報》副刊「七好文集」專欄。
Stephen and Stitt, the bronze lions, are named after two managers of the bank. They received shrapnel (砲彈碎片) damage, still clearly visible, during World War II. They have only been moved twice: once to Japan during the occupation, where they luckily avoided being melted down for armaments (軍備), and then over the road to Status Square while the new headquarters was being built.
Spurrier, P. (2016). The Heritage Hiker's Guide to Hong Kong. Hong Kong: Form Asia.
2020年9月11日星期五
2020年9月10日星期四
訴求
社會上有不同的訴求，大部分的訴求都牽涉利益。一個負責任的政府需要聆聽各方的訴求，然後分析訴求是否合理，繼而考慮自身的能力，滿足市民或商界所需所急。港府已經為了壓低失業率，向商界注入不少資金。但當為數不少的行業因市道低迷再向政府伸手攞錢，某政黨又為了選票提出消費卷，政府財政即將陷入嚴重赤字。香港不像一個大國，不能不斷印銀紙解決問題。大家應否停下來，想一想怎樣在全球經濟下行的情況下努力求變。金融是香港的經濟支柱之一，但我們不可過於依賴，股票只能養活一少撮人。不要以為有幾個磚頭就可以一勞永逸，樓宇的價格可升可跌，尤其在這動盪的時局。社會一定要多元化，過往太偏重旅遊業、零售業、飲食業，一個武漢肺炎，一個社會運動，香港已經被打到體無完膚。可能時也命也，全球經濟也無法幸免。我們也許不能時時作比較，但鄰近地區，如深圳、台灣已經走得很前。香港要再進一步，科研或高技術工業可能是出路。
2020年9月8日星期二
2020年9月3日星期四
rough pavement
Hong Kong Museum of History will undergo renovation soon. It may reopen for a short period after the third wave COVID-19 and before the renovation. The gift shop, passage, will close up officially in September. The other branches of passage at Hong Kong Heritage Museum, Xiqu Center and Hong Kong Space Museum will probably gradually reopen after the third wave. As a member of this shop around 2019, I built up a sense of belonging with the colleagues and the place. Although the working pressure was much higher than that in CUHK bookstore, my working experience grew quickly here. At the end of 2019, I became an employee at the gift shop at Hong Kong Space Museum. Because of the impact of large scale demonstrations and COVID-19, gift shops under government facilities has to be closed temporarily and compulsively. Our business is largely hindered. Due to the rearrangement of human resources, I started working at Chung Hwa Bookstore (Tsuen Wan) in September. My main duty is stock management. I will be the helper of non-book business and cashier. Yesterday, I tried filling new Chinese books into the shelves. If I can handle the above workload, my supervisor will choose some categories of Chinese books for me to be in charge. What a challenging job!
https://www.museums.gov.hk/documents/10347444/10348411/MH_HK-Story-Floor-Plan(shop)_MBDs.jpg
Diagon Alley
tap: to strike lightly especially with a slight sound
mumble: intransitive verb: to utter words in a low confused indistinct manner
indistinct: not clearly recognizable or understandable
beak: the bill of a bird
bill: the jaws of a bird together with their horny covering
scramble: to move with urgency or panic
jerk: to propel or move with or as if with a quick suddenly arrested motion
swoop: to move with a sweep
flutter: to flap the wings rapidly
fiercely: in a fierce or vehement manner
fierce: violently hostile or aggressive in temperament
vehement: marked by forceful energy
savage: to attack or treat brutally
brutally: severe
pellet: a usually small rounded, spherical, or cylindrical body (as of food or medicine)
humbug: British: a hard usually peppermint-flavored candy
gotta: used for "got to" in informal speech and in representations of such speech
goblin: an ugly or grotesque sprite that is usually mischievous and sometimes evil and malicious
sprite: a disembodied spirit
gleam: to shine with or as if with subdued steady light or moderate brightness
subdued: lacking in vitality, intensity, or strength
enchantment: a magic spell
vault: a room or compartment for the safekeeping of valuables
summat: dialectal variant of somewhat
bungler: to act or work clumsily and awkwardly
awkward: lacking social grace and assurance
blimey: chiefly British: gorblimey
gorblimey: used to express amazement, surprise, or perplexity
clamber: to climb awkwardly or with effort especially by using both the hands and the feet
passerby: one who passes by
pant: to breathe quickly, spasmodically, or in a labored manner
crikey: used as a mild oath
canary yellow: a light to a moderate or vivid yellow
vivid: of a color :very strong :very high in chroma
parchment: the skin of a sheep or goat prepared for writing on
witchcraft: the use of sorcery or magic
sorcery: the use of power gained from the assistance or control of evil spirits especially for divining
robe: a long flowing outer garment
garment: an article of clothing
cloak: a loose outer garment
transfiguration: a change in form or appearance
potion: a mixture of liquids (such as liquor or medicine)
wand: a slender rod used by conjurers and magicians
conjurer: wizard
cauldron: a large kettle or boiler
pewter: (especially) a dull alloy with lead formerly used for domestic utensils
phial: vial: a small closed or closable vessel especially for liquids
get stuck in: to start doing something with a lot of energy
bustling: busily astir
grubby: dirty
peculiar: characteristic of only one person, group, or thing
shabby: inferior in quality
bald: lacking a natural or usual covering (as of hair, vegetation, or nap)
beam: to smile with joy
flutter: a state of nervous confusion or excitement
delighted: obsolete : delighful
stammer: to make involuntary stops and repetitions in speaking
vampire: the reanimated body of a dead person believed to come from the grave at night and suck the blood of persons asleep
courtyard: a court or enclosure adjacent to a building (such as a house or palace)
grin: smile
hag: an ugly, slatternly, or evil-looking old woman
quiver: to shake or move with a slight trembling motion
wriggle: to move or advance by twisting and turning
cobbled: paved with cobblestones
plump: having a full rounded usually pleasing form
apothecary: one who prepares and sells drugs or compounds for medicinal purposes
hoot: to make the natural throat noise of an owl or a similar cry
emporium: a place of trade
tawny: of a warm sandy color
screech: a high shrill piercing cry usually expressing pain or terror
barn: a usually large building for the storage of farm products or feed and usually for the housing of farm animals or farm equipment
barrel: a round bulging vessel of greater length than breadth that is usually made of staves bound with hoops and has flat ends of equal diameter
tottering: lacking firmness or stability
quill: the hollow horny shaft of a feather
burnish: to make shiny or lustrous especially by rubbing
swarthy: of a dark color
engrave: to form by incision (as on wood or metal)
heed: attention
scribble: to write or draw hastily or carelessly
ledger: a book containing accounts to which debits and credits are posted from books of original entry
cram: to pack tight
hurtle: to move rapidly or forcefully
rattle: to make a rapid succession of short sharp noises
steer: to direct the course (as of a ship or automobile)
plunge: to become pitched or thrown headlong or violently forward and downward
stalactite: a deposit of calcium carbonate (such as calcite) resembling an icicle hanging from the roof or sides of a cave
stalagmite: a deposit of calcium carbonate like an inverted stalactite formed on the floor of a cave by the drip of calcareous water
billow: sentence example: a field of burning grass billowing thick black clouds of smoke into the sky
mound: pile
ravine: a small narrow steep-sided valley that is larger than a gully and smaller than a canyon and that is usually worn by running water
groan: to utter a deep moan indicative of pain, grief, or annoyance
scruff: the back of the neck
infernal: of or relating to hell
mauve: a moderate purple, violet, or lilac color
drawl: to utter in a slow lengthened tone
gamekeeper: a person in charge of the breeding and protection of game animals or birds on a private preserve
sneer: to smile or laugh with facial contortions that express scorn or contempt
contort: to twist into or as if into a strained shape or expression
scorn: open dislike and disrespect or mockery often mixed with indignation
contempt: lack of respect or reverence for something
duffer: an incompetent, ineffectual, or clumsy person
curse: a prayer or invocation for harm or injury to come upon one
bewitch: to influence or affect especially injuriously by witchcraft
revenge: to avenge (oneself or another) usually by retaliating in kind or degree
rot: deteriorate
unicorn: a mythical, usually white animal generally depicted with the body and head of a horse with long flowing mane and tail and a single often spiraled horn in the middle of the forehead
glitter: to shine by reflection with many small flashes of brilliant light
scoop: the amount contained by a scoop
outta: non-standard contraction of ‘out of’, used in representing informal speech
rustle: to act or move with energy or speed
flickering: moving or shining irregularly or unsteadily
gruff: rough, brusque, or stern in manner, speech, or aspect
brusque: markedly short and abrupt
stern: having a definite hardness or severity of nature or manner
spindly: of a disproportionately tall or long and thin appearance that often suggests physical weakness
prickle: a prickling or tingling sensation
willow: an object made of willow wood
creepy: producing a nervous shivery apprehension
mahogany: the wood of any of various chiefly tropical trees
pliable: supple enough to bend freely or repeatedly without breaking
yew: evergreen gymnospermous trees and shrubs
shuffle: to move about, back and forth, or from one place to another
flit: to pass quickly or abruptly from one place or condition to another
crumple: to press, bend, or crush out of shape
snatch: to attempt to seize something suddenly
whippy: unusually resilient
ebony: a hard heavy blackish wood yielded by various tropical chiefly southeast Asian trees
supple: capable of being bent or folded without creases, cracks, or breaks
swish: to move, pass, swing, or whirl with the sound of a swish
whoop: to utter a whoop in expression of eagerness, enthusiasm, or enjoyment
bravo: a shout of approval —often used interjectionally in applauding a performance
applaud: to express approval especially by clapping the hands
gawk: to gape or stare stupidly
laden: carrying a load or burden
2020年8月30日星期日
mRNA vaccines
The promise (成功前景) of mRNA vaccines is changing how we think about COVID-19 immunization. The most traditional methods of vaccine development introduce the body to either an inactivated or weakened form of a virus or to one of its viral proteins. The immune system responds by producing antibodies that recognize particular proteins of the virus. Those antibodies could fight future infections as long as the virus doesn’t evolve. mRNA vaccines take a novel (新穎的) approach that has never been licensed for human use. Their development is faster as it bypasses the more laborious (艱巨的) tasks of inactivating viruses or isolating proteins.
The vaccine contains snippets (片斷) of viral mRNA, a molecule with instructions for making proteins. Scientists pack the mRNA inside a slippery pod made of lipids, so it can slide into the cells.
Phospholipids, arranged in a bilayer, make up the basic fabric of the plasma membrane. (www.khanacademy.org)
Once inside the cells, the mRNA finds the ribosomes. They are the machinery for building all proteins in the body.
Ribosome, particle that is present in large numbers in all living cells and serves as the site of protein synthesis...Ribosomes are made up of ribosomal proteins and ribosomal RNA (rRNA)...Ribosomal molecules of messenger RNA (mRNA) determine the order of transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules that are bound to nucleotide triplets (codons). The order of tRNA molecules ultimately determines the amino acid sequence of a protein. (www.britannica.com)
https://www.genome.gov/sites/default/files/tg/en/illustration/transfer_rna_adv.jpg
Ribosomes start making SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins based on the viral mRNA. Spike proteins coat the surface of the virus and are harmless on their own. They are considered a good vaccine target which is also called an antigen.
The coronavirus spike protein is a multifunctional molecular machine that mediates coronavirus entry into host cells. (www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
An immune cell perceives (把…看作) the spike proteins as if the body had been infected. It kicks off a sequence of events that results in the creation of antibodies and other defenses.
(Paragraphs with bold text: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/2020/05/moderna-coronavirus-vaccine-how-it-works-cvd/)
2020年8月28日星期五
Intelligence
The collection of information of military or political value.
窮困國家做不到太多，但都會做，何況是有銀蛋的。
國與國之間情報上的交鋒對決很難避免。
用高科技全面監控自身的人民而達至維穩，
真是有點兒那個，中國如是，美國如是。
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