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bookmark_borderCostly Disasters: Hurricanes

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By Daniel Brouse

In the United States, hurricanes stand out as the most financially burdensome type of climate-related disaster. While the number of disasters related to extreme weather events such as rain, hail, and wind, resulting in over a billion dollars in damage may be higher, the sheer magnitude of damage caused by a single hurricane surpasses them. For example, in 2023, there were 17 extreme weather events, each causing over a billion dollars in damage, but no hurricanes occurred. However, Hurricane Ida alone incurred an estimated $75 billion in damages, making it the costliest disaster of 2021.

In 2023, the world experienced an El Niño phase, which typically reduces hurricane activity. However, the climate pattern shifted towards La Niña in 2024. La Niña patterns often amplify the Atlantic hurricane season, particularly concerning when paired with months-long streaks of record warmth across the Atlantic Ocean.

Unfortunately, even scientists are failing to see (let alone forecast) the rapid acceleration in climate change. Due to their complexity, the impacts of the Domino Effect are being underestimated. Tipping points are Critical Milestones that directly impact the rate of acceleration in climate change by multiplying the number and intensity of feedback loops. The Domino Effect is also known as “tipping cascades” in climate science. Cascading impacts in relation to tipping points include cascading impacts across biogeophysical and social systems. Until recently, scientist have been drastically underestimating the social-ecological systems. The University of Exeter reports, “There is a notable lack of topic clusters dedicated to how humans will be impacted by climate-related tipping cascades.”

Previous climate models have inadequately incorporated “social-ecological systems” as human involvement was not a significant factor in past climate changes. Unfortunately, the United States ranks among the least prepared countries globally, with the highest percentage of climate deniers. The Republican party dismisses it as a manufactured crisis and plans to increase fossil fuel production, exacerbating the situation. Political extremists asserting that the climate crisis is manufactured employ an ironic term, considering that human manufacturing activities are the primary driver of climate change. Both political parties have concurred to allocate unlimited emergency funding for climate disasters instead of proactively preventing them. Last year, the US witnessed a record number of over a billion-dollar climate disasters, totaling 28 separate weather and climate-related events. It is due to this arrogance and ignorance that “worst-case scenarios” are now “best-case scenarios” for the acceleration of climate change. These factors have altered our climate model, shifting the projected maximum temperature rise from 4 degrees Celsius over the next millennium to a probable increase of 9 degrees Celsius this century.

* Our climate model employs chaos theory to comprehensively consider human impacts and projects a potential global average temperature increase of 9 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.

How is All Real Estate at Risk From Climate Change?

The Human Induced Climate Change Experiment

bookmark_borderInflation Update: Auto Insurance

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by Daniel Brouse

In recent inflation reports, homeowners’ insurance, wages, and auto insurance have emerged as primary drivers contributing to the persistence of inflation. The inflationary pressures on auto insurance have been further exacerbated by two key factors:

1) Collision coverage: The prevalence of accidents caused by distracted driving, particularly due to cell phone usage, continues to rise. Distracted driving significantly impacts insurance premiums, as the heightened accident rate results in increased claims for insurers to process.

2) Comprehensive coverage: There has been a notable surge in weather and climate-related claims, including incidents such as floods, fires, hailstorms, and falling debris. These natural disasters contribute significantly to insurance claims, necessitating higher payouts from insurers.

How is All Real Estate at Risk From Climate Change?

bookmark_borderClimate Change, Inflation, and You

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Currently, a major contributor to inflation is the surge in homeowners’ insurance costs, propelled by the unprecedented number of climate disasters in 2023. California, Louisiana, and Florida are now dependent on government assistance to manage the financial burden of residential property insurance.

Flood insurance will become expensive and difficult to obtain.

NOAA: A historic year of U.S. billion-dollar weather and climate disasters

In 2023, the U.S. experienced 28 separate weather and climate disasters costing at least 1 billion dollars. That number puts 2023 into first place for the highest number of billion-dollar disasters in a calendar year and included:

  • 1 winter storm/cold wave event (across the northeast U.S. in early-February).
  • 1 wildfire event (firestorm destroying town of Lahaina on Maui Island of Hawaii).
  • 1 drought and heat wave event (focused across the central and southern U.S.).
  • 4 flooding events (in California, Florida, and across the eastern and northeastern U.S.).
  • 2 tornado outbreaks (across the central and eastern U.S.).
  • 2 tropical cyclones (Idalia in Florida and Typhoon Mawar in Guam).
  • 17 severe weather/hail events (across many parts of the country).

2023 was also deadly, causing at least 492 direct or indirect fatalities — the 8th most disaster-related fatalities for the contiguous U.S. since 1980.

* Our climate model employs chaos theory to comprehensively consider human impacts and projects a potential global average temperature increase of 9 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.

What Can I Do?
There are numerous actions you can take to contribute to saving the planet. Each person bears the responsibility to minimize pollution, discontinue the use of fossil fuels, reduce consumption, and foster a culture of love and care. Be a butterfly and affect the world. The Butterfly Effect illustrates that a small change in one area can lead to significant alterations in conditions anywhere on the globe. Hence, the frequently heard statement that a butterfly in China can cause a hurricane in the Atlantic.

Here is a list of additional actions you can take.

How is All Real Estate at Risk From Climate Change?

bookmark_borderClimate Change Today

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By Daniel Brouse
March 23, 2024

We are aware that the average temperature increased by 1.2°C by 2022. Subsequently, the annual average temperature exceeded 1.5°C for the first time in January 2024. There is a substantial likelihood that if humans persist in emitting greenhouse gases at the current rate, the temperature will rise by 4°C within this century. Furthermore, in 2023, seven tipping points were surpassed, triggering a chain reaction of feedback loops. While the precise amounts of carbon and methane stored in nature remain uncertain, a conservative estimate suggests a temperature rise of 3-6 degrees is inevitable. This century is marked by an unavoidable and irreversible increase in sea levels. However, if we alter our behaviors, we could potentially cap the increase at 4-5°C and extend the timeline to the year 2300. Although we lack exact figures for the speed and severity, we possess a comprehensive model with numerous known variables. In essence, while acknowledging that challenges lie ahead, there is an opportunity for mitigation through substantial changes in our practices.

The Human Induced Climate Change Experiment

bookmark_borderLong-COVID: Elevated Cytokines and Low Iron

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COVID=19

By Daniel Brouse

The study, titled “Iron Dysregulation and Inflammatory Stress Erythropoiesis Associated with Long-Term Outcome of COVID-19,” reveals that Long-COVID is linked to elevated levels of C-reactive protein and prolonged elevation of cytokines compared to healthy controls. The research indicates that the duration of inflammation and the regulation of low iron levels after acute infection are crucial factors associated with long COVID. Individuals with a slower resolution of inflammation and more severe initial infections face an increased risk of developing long COVID.

Iron dysregulation is a common occurrence after infections, as the body swiftly moves iron out of the bloodstream to prevent it from becoming a potential breeding ground for harmful bacteria. The study suggests that defects in iron homeostasis, dysregulated erythropoiesis, and immune dysfunction resulting from COVID-19 may contribute to inefficient oxygen transport, inflammatory imbalances, persistent symptoms, and could potentially be addressed through therapeutic interventions.

The iron dysfunction observed in COVID-19 is indicative of an underlying issue within the immune system. While supplementing iron may address the symptom of low iron levels, it does not directly tackle the root cause. The exact nature of the root cause remains unclear, and questions persist regarding the presence of active virus, remnants of an inactive virus, or potential epigenetic changes influencing the immune response.

A more concerning aspect of COVID-19 is the elevated cytokine levels. The information on autoimmune diseases emphasizes that an excessive release of cytokines, which are signaling molecules involved in immune responses, can lead to an exaggerated inflammatory response. This heightened inflammation has the potential to damage tissues and contribute to autoimmune diseases, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells.

A “worst-case scenario” involves COVID-19 triggering a persistent autoimmune condition comparable to AIDS or Lyme Disease. Such a condition could involve the immune system continuously attacking healthy cells, causing irreversible organ damage, impacting overall quality of life, and potentially leading to premature death. Efforts to understand and address these complexities are crucial for developing effective treatments and mitigating long-term consequences of COVID-19.

The study: Iron dysregulation and inflammatory stress erythropoiesis associates with long-term outcome of COVID-19

Science Based Information on COVID-19 / SARS-CoV-2 / Novel Coronavirus

bookmark_borderClimate Change: Camelot’s Resurgence

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Camelot’s Resurgence: A Musical Odyssey Through Mythical Metaphors of Climate Change at the Round Table

The legend of King Arthur, the Round Table, and Camelot can be metaphorically related to human-induced climate change in various ways:

  1. Unified Effort and Global Cooperation:
    • Metaphor: The Round Table represents equality and unity among Arthur’s knights, highlighting the idea of collaboration and shared responsibility.
    • Climate Change Connection: Addressing climate change requires global cooperation and shared efforts. The metaphor suggests that, like the knights gathered around the Round Table, nations need to unite in facing the common challenge of climate change.
  2. Camelot as a Sustainable Utopia:
    • Metaphor: Camelot is often portrayed as an idealized, utopian kingdom where justice, equality, and chivalry prevail.
    • Climate Change Connection: The metaphor implies that addressing climate change requires envisioning and striving for sustainable and environmentally conscious societies. Camelot serves as a symbol for the kind of world we should aim to create to mitigate the impact of climate change.
  3. The Sword in the Stone as Responsibility:
    • Metaphor: Arthur pulling the sword from the stone signifies his acceptance of responsibility and destiny as the rightful king.
    • Climate Change Connection: The metaphor can be linked to the acknowledgment of the responsibility humans hold in causing and mitigating climate change. Just as Arthur takes up the responsibility of leading, humanity must take responsibility for its impact on the environment.
  4. The Betrayal of Lancelot and Guinevere as Human Failings:
    • Metaphor: The affair between Lancelot and Guinevere, leading to Camelot’s downfall, represents the betrayal and moral failings of individuals within the kingdom.
    • Climate Change Connection: The metaphor reflects the human tendencies that contribute to environmental degradation, such as exploitation of natural resources, overconsumption, and the neglect of sustainable practices.
  5. Mordred’s Betrayal as Ignoring Warning Signs:
    • Metaphor: Mordred’s betrayal, often driven by a thirst for power, represents the consequences of ignoring warning signs and neglecting the environment.
    • Climate Change Connection: The metaphor aligns with the consequences of ignoring early warnings and scientific evidence regarding climate change. Human actions, driven by short-term interests, can lead to irreversible damage.

In summary, the King Arthur legend serves as a metaphor for the collective human experience in facing challenges like climate change. It emphasizes the importance of unity, responsibility, sustainability, and the consequences of moral failings and neglect.

From the album: Camelot’s Resurgence

bookmark_borderAbout the Membrane Domain

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This website was established by a diverse group, including musicians, writers, computer wizards, businessmen, videots, and individuals with a keen interest. We named this collective effort “The Philadelphia Spirit Experiment.”

PHILADELPHIA? Frustrated with outdated systems and unsuccessful attempts to change them, we chose to take action — perhaps in the spirit of our forefathers?

SPIRIT? The aim of the spirit experiment is to leverage R&D (research and development of business/art/science models) to directly contribute to preserving mankind. Can we help reintroduce the “kind” into mankind by replacing formalized formulas? Our goal is to infuse life with spirit.

Our climate model employs chaos theory to comprehensively consider human impacts and projects a potential global average temperature increase of 9℃ above pre-industrial levels. Global warming is a consequence of elevated thermal energy in the climate system, which comprises various subsystems. Chaos theory underscores the intricate and nonlinear nature of dynamic systems. Human well-being is compromised above a 1.5-degree temperature rise, rendering much of the Earth uninhabitable. A 9-degree Celsius increase would bring the Earth close to a wet-bulb temperature incapable of sustaining human life.

What Can I Do? There are numerous actions you can take to contribute to saving the planet. Each person bears the responsibility to minimize pollution, discontinue the use of fossil fuels, reduce consumption, and foster a culture of love and care. The Butterfly Effect illustrates that a small change in one area can lead to significant alterations in conditions anywhere on the globe. Hence, the frequently heard statement that a fluttering butterfly in China can cause a hurricane in the Atlantic. Be a butterfly and affect the world.

What you can do today. How to save the planet.

A RADICAL APPROACH? Our approach draws on past experiences to make the present count for tomorrow—a radical notion, albeit one focused on positive change.

This concept is put into action (or lack of action) through music, publishing, business, moving pictures, and more. The original idea gained popularity, leading to the development of a domain centered around altruism.

Whether you choose to participate or simply educate yourself, we hope your time here is enjoyable at The Membrane Domain.

The web is an extension of our dynamic approach — it is alive. Each visit can offer a completely different experience. Please feel free to explore as often as you like. If you encounter bad “links” or spelling errors, we appreciate your feedback.

Should you need assistance during your visit, click on PANIC! / PANIC! to connect with a human. Regardless of your issue or question, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Thank you for your attention. We hope you grasp the essence of our intentions. If you’re ready, enter the Lyon’s Den — the labyrinth of the Membrane Domain.

Sincerely,
C. Moore
Philosopher

bookmark_borderEarth’s Vital Signs

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by Daniel Brouse

Earth
Earth

Human-induced climate change serves as a dynamic and intricate component within an unordered system, guided by chaos theory. This suggests that global warming is undergoing exponential acceleration in a complex manner. The pace at which climate change is accelerating can be described as rapid, as evident in the intensity, duration, and likelihood of climate disasters. Drawing insights from the 2023 Canada wildfires, the World Weather Attribution Organization reported, “Climate change made the cumulative severity of Quebec’s 2023 fire season to the end of July around 50% more intense, and seasons of this severity at least seven times more likely to occur.”

Key Findings: Extreme weather and climate-related disasters have become 50% more intense and 7 times more likely.

In the 20th century, Earth’s surface temperature averaged 13.9℃. However, in the initial weeks of July 2023, the average temperature surged to 17℃. Human activities have propelled global temperatures more than 3℃ for parts of the year, with the entire period from February 2023 to February 2024 registering 1.5℃ above pre-industrial levels. A rise of 1.5 degrees already compromises human well-being, making much of the Earth uninhabitable.

As of 2024, humanity has surpassed seven critical tipping points, including Mountain Glacier Loss, Greenland Ice Sheet Collapse, Antarctic Ice Sheet Collapse, AMOC (Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation) Collapse, Amazon Rainforest Dieback, Coral Reef Die-Off, and Northern Permafrost Collapse. Crossing these tipping points triggers self-sustaining feedback loops independent of human activity. While the exact carbon stored in nature remains uncertain, an assumption could be made that temperatures might surge from 3 to 6 degrees above pre-industrial levels. Thriving beyond a 1.5-degree rise becomes impossible for humans. If an additional 3 degrees Celsius is added, the temperature and humidity would approach a wet-bulb temperature unsuitable for human life.

What Can I Do?
There exist numerous actions individuals can take to contribute to saving the planet. Each person bears the responsibility to minimize pollution, discontinue the use of fossil fuels, reduce consumption, and foster a culture of love and care. The Butterfly Effect illustrates that a small change in one area can lead to significant alterations in conditions anywhere on the globe. Hence, the frequently heard statement that a fluttering butterfly in China can cause a hurricane in the Atlantic. Be a butterfly and influence the world.

The Human Induced Climate Change Experiment

bookmark_borderClimate Change: What Can I Do?

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by Daniel Brouse and Sidd Mukherjee

Achieving “net zero” is not only accessible but also cost-effective, providing substantial savings while contributing to the preservation of our planet. Here are some practices I’ve adopted to reach net zero without compromising my standard of living, and, in fact, surpassing it in an effort to eliminate all my pollution. The simplest way to commence this journey is through energy conservation. Be mindful of your energy usage, refrain from unnecessary consumption, turn off devices when not in use, and opt for low-energy products.

  1. Consume less. Consumer habits have played a significant role in damaging the world’s environment and economies. The insatiable demands of mass consumption have led to the exploitation of natural resources and the emission of pollution and greenhouse gases. In many instances, it’s feasible to choose not to consume certain products entirely. Travel, fashion, and meat are examples of areas where consumption could be minimized. Reducing overall consumption is the most impactful individual contribution towards eliminating pollution and mitigating the effects of climate change. The critical aspect of reducing consumption is to cease burning fossil fuels and using hydrocarbon products immediately. (Hydrocarbons encompass plastics, polymers, petroleum, and natural gas.)
  2. Electricity and heat are leading contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Select an electric company that relies on nuclear, solar, and/or wind generation.
  • Insulate your house (Be cautious not to over-insulate, as indoor pollution can be as concerning as outdoor pollution. An air-tight house requires an air exchange system with a meticulous filter maintenance program.)
  • Zone heat: In winter, maintain your main temperature at 50 degrees Fahrenheit and only heat the room you are occupying to a comfortable level (e.g., 68 degrees). Dress warmly.
  • Install an air-to-air heat exchanger and humidity exchanger (Note: Humidity is as crucial as temperature.)
  • Plant shade trees to reduce the need for central air.
  • Plant windscreens, such as evergreens.
  1. Food and land use constitute the second-largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Consume less meat.
  • Minimize the transportation of food by choosing local products.
  • Cultivate your own garden and windowsill gardens.
  • Plant trees, with a focus on preserving old-growth.
  • Reduce impervious surfaces.
  1. Transportation represents the third-largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Purchase an electric vehicle (EV) or a high MPG manual transmission vehicle (I achieve 50 MPG in a 4-wheel drive SUV with a 6-speed.)
  • Make fewer trips, use public transportation, and minimize air travel.

* Our climate model employs chaos theory to comprehensively consider human impacts and projects a potential global average temperature increase of 9 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.

What Can I Do?
There are numerous actions you can take to contribute to saving the planet. Each person bears the responsibility to minimize pollution, discontinue the use of fossil fuels, reduce consumption, and foster a culture of love and care. The Butterfly Effect illustrates that a small change in one area can lead to significant alterations in conditions anywhere on the globe. Hence, the frequently heard statement that a butterfly in China can cause a hurricane in the Atlantic. Be a butterfly and affect the world.
Here is a list of additional actions you can take.

bookmark_borderIntroduction to COVID-19: Understanding the Long-Term Impact

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Author: Daniel Brouse

COVID Science Updates

COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has left an indelible mark on global health, demonstrating not only its immediate threat but also the potential for enduring consequences. This article explores the profound and lasting impact of COVID-19, delving into the virus’s role in chronic conditions and its ability to leave a lasting imprint on various aspects of health.

Long-Term Complications and Excess Deaths

A COVID-19 infection often leads to persistent complications that significantly diminish both the quality of life and life expectancy. Shockingly, 10% of excess deaths can be directly attributed to COVID itself, while the remaining 90% are attributed to what can be considered COVID’s silent killers. Individuals who have experienced COVID may face a diminished quality of life and an increased risk of premature death. Dr. Rob Wust underscores this by stating, “There is something inside the body going wrong with the disease.”

Long-COVID: A Looming Reality

For those who have contracted COVID, the probability of developing chronic conditions, known as Long-COVID, is a staggering 99%. This alarming statistic underscores the pervasive and lasting impact of the virus on an individual’s health.

Key Insights into COVID-19’s Long-Term Effects

  1. Direct Impact on Organs:
    • COVID-19 has been responsible for millions of deaths and has caused long-term damage to vital organs, leaving many survivors permanently disabled.
  2. Persistent Viral Presence:
    • SARS-CoV-2 can persist in the body for months or even years, causing chronic infections and leaving behind viral proteins associated with Long-COVID. This persistence is comparable to other viruses like Chicken Pox leading to Shingles or Epstein-Barr virus contributing to Mononucleosis and Multiple Sclerosis.
  3. Compromised Immune System and Autoimmune Risks:
    • Post-COVID individuals often experience a compromised immune system and an increased risk of autoimmune diseases. Local immune responses may be disturbed by both mental and physical exertion in long-COVID patients.
  4. Genetic and Epigenetic Changes:
    • SARS-CoV-2 induces genetic and epigenetic alterations to DNA, resulting in a compromised immune system, elevated risks of diabetes, hypertension, cancer, and damage to neurological, circulatory, and cardiovascular systems. Predisposed conditions are likely to escalate to more advanced stages.
  5. Complexity of Long-COVID:
    • Long-COVID is likely a multifaceted condition involving persistent virus presence, residual viral proteins, and lasting epigenetic and genetic changes, potentially lasting indefinitely.
  6. Increased Risks with Reinfection:
    • Reinfection with COVID amplifies the risks of death, hospitalization, and multi-organ damage, exacerbating underlying conditions across various bodily systems.

Understanding the epigenetic changes induced by COVID, including the downregulation of NAD+ and the impact on tryptophan, sheds light on the physical and mental health challenges faced by individuals. The deficiency in niacin, zinc, and vitamin D is a common consequence. It is crucial to recognize that COVID’s epigenetic changes may vary widely based on an individual’s genetic makeup, requiring tailored treatments for optimal outcomes.

COVID-19 / SARS-CoV-2 / Novel Coronavirus