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The Illinois Gaming Board is proposing a rule amendment to establish an Administrator No Action Letter process for the Video Gaming Act. This process would allow licensees to request non-binding advisory opinions on potential disciplinary actions or interpretations of laws or rules. The proposed rule aims to provide transparency, consistency, and efficiency in addressing regulatory matters while ensuring that the process does not overwhelm the Board with requests. Licensees are limited to one No Action Letter Request per year, and all requests and responses will be made public. [Extracted from the article]

The article explores the significant year of 1984 in the development of thrash metal, focusing on bands like Metallica, Exodus, Slayer, and Anthrax. It discusses the competitive nature between these bands and their impact on the genre. The article also emphasizes the importance of venues like Ruthie's Inn and the Country Club in shaping the thrash metal scene. It highlights Metallica's album "Ride The Lightning" as a notable example of the band's experimentation with acoustic guitars and melodic passages. Overall, the article portrays the excitement and influence of the thrash metal scene in 1984. [Extracted from the article]

This article highlights the experiences of South Asian women in relation to mental health. It discusses the cultural barriers and stigma surrounding mental health in South Asian culture, as well as the generational shift that is occurring, making mental health more accepted. The article also explores the challenges faced by South Asian women in balancing traditional expectations with individualism and independence. It emphasizes the importance of seeking help and support, and encourages readers to trust their inner wisdom. Additionally, the article features the work of individuals who are advocating for mental health in the South Asian community and providing resources for healing. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the recent national elections in South Africa and the lack of focus on child protection and children's rights in the manifestos of political parties. The children in South Africa have called for leaders who prioritize their safety and protection. The article also highlights the challenges faced by child and youth care workers in South Africa, including limited career opportunities and low salaries. The South African Child and Youth Care sector aims to advocate for the recognition of the profession and the safety of children in the country. [Extracted from the article]

The Illinois Gaming Board has proposed amendments to the Video Gaming Act to address concerns about vertical integration among different tiers of video gaming licensees. The amendments aim to prevent certain arrangements that may violate the Act's prohibition on vertical integration, such as non-compliant use agreements. They also restrict use agreements between terminal operators and establishments in certain situations and limit licensees to one tier of the video gaming industry. The proposed amendments seek to improve compliance with the Act, promote transparency, and ensure consistency in the regulatory process. The document also covers various topics related to gaming regulations in Illinois, including responsible gaming, technology implementation, independent testing laboratories, and underage gambling compliance. It provides specific rules and requirements for each topic, such as the use of gaming devices, responsible gaming education programs, problem gambling prevention, and standards of conduct for licensees. The document also outlines the authority and source of these regulations. Additionally, it explains the procedures for filing petitions and responses related to video gaming terminals in Illinois, including the need for detailed facts and reasons supporting the petitioner's legal rights and the opportunity to file exceptions to the Administrator's recommended decision. The Board will then issue a final written order. The text also includes restrictions on use agreements and multiple licenses, as well as requirements for individuals with significant influence or control. [Extracted from the article]

Jacqui Lambie, a former soldier and mother of two, has become a prominent figure in Australian politics. She is passionate about supporting veterans and at-risk youth, and has been involved with Veteran Mentors, an organization that runs camps for young people. Lambie has faced personal challenges, including chronic pain and a battle with addiction, but has overcome them and is now dedicated to helping others. She has made significant contributions in Parliament, advocating for issues such as housing debt relief and a Royal Commission into Defense and Veteran Suicide. Lambie continues to be an influential figure in Australian politics and is focused on making a difference in the lives of others. [Extracted from the article]

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Zyn, a discreet and addictive nicotine product, is gaining popularity among teens as an alternative to traditional cigarettes and e-cigarettes. Similar to Juul, Zyn does not contain tobacco and is delivered through a small pouch placed under the lip. While Zyn's manufacturer has filed the necessary applications with the FDA, the agency has not yet made a decision on its regulation. Concerns have been raised about Zyn's appeal to young people, its viral marketing tactics, and the potential health risks associated with long-term use. However, research suggests that nicotine pouches like Zyn may be safer than cigarettes and traditional chewing tobacco, although they still pose risks to oral health and cardiovascular health. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on the newly adopted amendment by the Illinois Gaming Board regarding the requirement for responsible gaming signage in licensed video gaming locations. Topics include the specific provisions mandating the display of these signs at designated areas, the similarities and differences with existing rules for casino and sportsbook operators, and the necessity of this rule to close regulatory gaps and promote responsible gaming within Illinois' expansive video gaming industry.

On cross-examination, Nayeri's lawyer painted Cortney as serial liar who'd "tricked" Nayeri into having sex with her when she was underage, stolen her parents' money, lied to the cops, and misled Nayeri's sister - suggesting she was only interested in saving her skin by fabricating lies about her ex. Cortney came across Nayeri and Kyle in the garage, horsing around with a butane torch, cackling as Nayeri pretended to burn Kyle, who shrieked in mock agony. PHOTO (COLOR): Kyle Handley, Nayeri's onetime nemesis in high school, became his partner in a marijuana grow - and his bumbling accomplice in the plot to kidnap Michael S. PHOTO (COLOR): Naomi Rhodus, estranged from husband Ryan Kevorkian, was said to be having an affair with Nayeri. This account of Nayeri's life of crime and chaos - of domestic violence, a high-speed car chase, an attempted dog murder, and other unspeakable acts - is reconstructed from police reports, grand-jury investigations, California appellate-court findings, and state-bar-court documents, as well as more than 1,800 pages of transcripts from Nayeri's trial, where his victims and Nayeri himself testified in open court. On Aug. 16, Nayeri sat, impassive, in a gray suit, his head rocking slightly, as the clerk read out the verdicts: Guilty on three charges - felony, kidnapping "for ransom, reward, or extortion" of Michael and Mary, and felony torture of Michael. [Extracted from the article]

Beth leveled her pistol at her husband five years into their marriage, and she has no regrets, which is one of the things I admire about her. Paolo was set to remain attached to Beth's hip until they withered into arthritic old age. Unlike Paolo, Ally's boyfriend in her second year at school did entertain a vice. Paolo didn't possess the imagination it might take to divorce Beth. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Columbus State University in Georgia examined the impact of demographic characteristics on alcohol consumption among college students aged 17-21. The research found that underage students reported consuming alcohol, with frequency increasing with age. Caucasian students were more likely to drink at least once a week compared to African American students. The study highlights the need for targeted prevention methods to address underage drinking among college students. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion examined U.S. adolescents' exposure to alcohol marketing on various types of media, including the internet. The study found that more than half of the adolescents reported being sometimes or often exposed to alcohol marketing. Hispanic adolescents had a higher likelihood of reporting exposure to alcohol marketing compared to non-Hispanic White adolescents, and exposure increased with age. The researchers suggest that monitoring alcohol marketing exposure, including on the internet, can help reduce racial/ethnic disparities in underage drinking risk factors. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by Stanford University examined the predictors of first drinking initiation and regular drinking onset in adolescence. The study utilized data from the National Consortium on Alcohol and NeuroDevelopment in Adolescence (NCANDA) and identified several factors that were strongly associated with drinking initiation, including positive alcohol expectancies, easy access to alcohol at home, and less parental control and knowledge. The study also found that earlier drinking onset predicted earlier transition into binge and regular binge drinking, and delayed drinking initiation reduced the likelihood of experiencing withdrawal. The findings support efforts to delay drinking onset in order to mitigate negative consequences associated with early drinking initiation. [Extracted from the article]

The New Hampshire Liquor Commission (NHLC) is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year and has contributed $4 billion to the state's general fund. NHLC is the largest non-tax source of revenue for the state, raising nearly $165 million in net profits in fiscal year 2023. It is also ranked among the top 100 retailers in the nation and has been recognized for its competitive pricing, customer service, and wide selection of wines and spirits. NHLC has also supported nonprofit organizations and the state's craft beverage industry, while prioritizing public safety through educational programs on responsible alcohol consumption. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, has found that parental alcohol use may influence adolescent substance use and substance use intentions. The study examined the relationship between sub-clinical maternal alcohol use and adolescent neural emotion reactivity and substance use intentions. The results showed that greater frequency of maternal alcohol use predicted adolescents' substance use intentions and blunted responses to positive emotional images in certain areas of the brain. These findings suggest that even at sub-clinical levels of drinking, parental alcohol use may impact the development of reward and positive emotion processing systems in adolescents. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the Division of Social and Preventive Medicine explores the associations between various risk factors and alcohol misuse in adolescents over an 8-year period. The study, which included 2,240 adolescents from European schools, found that psychosocial resources were negatively associated with the risk of alcohol misuse, while risk-taking aspects of personality were positively associated with alcohol misuse. Additionally, the study found that family history of substance misuse was negatively associated with alcohol misuse. The findings suggest that different risk factors may contribute to future alcohol misuse and could inform more individualized preventive interventions. [Extracted from the article]

National Affairs LET IT BE KNOWN that Michael Fanone does not in any way, shape, or form want to visit the U.S. Capitol. Not that his family had ever really been anywhere - it was Fanone who'd worked a shift from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m., Fanone who'd often chosen to crash for a few hours at the station or in his truck before showing up to testify or submit paperwork in court first thing in the morning, Fanone who'd signed up for so much overtime. Well, when Fanone got a load of that shit, he called up his friend Harry Dunn - a Capitol Police officer who had testified with Fanone during the congressional hearings in July 2021 - and the two decided to pay a little visit to every one of those House Republicans ("I was like, 'I've got nothing better to do today. [Extracted from the article]

An excerpt from the book "Mr. Charlie Brown: My Fabulous 50-Year Career In and Out of Drag," by Charles H. Dillard and Richard L. Eldredge is presented, which describes the career of iconic Atlanta drag performer Charlie Brown.

But Maya put a hand out to shush Lizzy and turned to Viola. Viola's eyes widened as she tried to take this in. "I don't know", she whispered, Maya's formula seemed so simple, but Viola didn't know how she felt. Lean, muscled, caramel brown with quarter-inch hair, Emilia was smart and outspoken, someone Viola would have liked to be friends with. Viola should just quit this binge drinking and take better care of herself because if she didn't, she'd just be wasting all the hard-earned money her parents had put into Viola's college account and she might as well drop out and get a job at Fred Meyer's. But she - Viola could just tell - would say that Viola had been a damned fool for getting drunk and getting herself into this absurd situation. [Extracted from the article]

FEATURES Why don't we have a legally enforceable age requirement for the use of social media? Perhaps it is the retreat into digital spaces that happened during pandemic lockdowns and the difficulty many children are having now as they try to emerge from that forced cocoon; or perhaps it is the constant stream of stories about the harms that social media inflict on younger children (e.g., "Snapchat dysmorphia", by which people become unhappy with their bodies and seek to alter them so as to appear more like the heavily filtered images on social-media platforms). You could call it an honor system, but there is little that is honorable about the goals these social-media companies have set for drawing ever-younger users to their platforms. The list of social-media platforms grows every year: The grand dame, Facebook, is now just for old people; but Instagram and WhatsApp (both owned by Meta) remain popular among the young. [Extracted from the article]

The article examines that the Dogs' career is nothing if not an exercise in tenacity and determination stretching out over 50 years, five states, two continents and thousands of miles on the road. Topics include considered it involves no less than three near misses to get signed to major labels, sleeping on floors, scrounging for food, multiple arrests, and members coming and going and coming back again.

A study conducted by the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) examined the impact of school segregation on the health of children from different racial backgrounds. The research found that contemporary school racial segregation, which is a manifestation of structural racism, negatively affects the health of Black children. The study also revealed that school segregation is associated with worsened risk factors for chronic disease, such as exercise and body mass index, among both Black and White students in majority non-White schools. The findings suggest that segregated schools may lack sufficient resources for physical education or nutrition. The researchers concluded that ensuring all students have access to schools with the necessary resources could have positive effects on population health. [Extracted from the article]

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a significant health issue in China, influenced by complex social factors. The rise in alcohol consumption among Chinese adolescents and the cultural norm of excessive drinking contribute to the high prevalence of ALD. The preference for high-alcohol-content spirits and the availability of unbottled alcohol further exacerbate the risk. ALD is a global problem, accounting for a substantial proportion of liver-related deaths worldwide. In China, the disease burden is substantial due to rapid urbanization and economic growth. Cirrhosis and upper gastrointestinal bleeding are severe complications of ALD. Despite advancements in understanding the disease, effective treatments remain limited, and abstinence from alcohol is challenging. Precision medicine and public health interventions are needed to address the unique challenges of ALD in China. Comprehensive strategies are necessary to manage and prevent ALD, focusing on targeted therapies and policies that address the cultural context of alcohol consumption. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Binghamton University in New York explored the effects of adolescent alcohol exposure on learning and memory. The researchers used a rodent model to mimic human binge drinking during adolescence and found that it resulted in deficits in learning and memory. They also identified the nucleus basalis magnocellularis (NbM) as a key site of pathology. By using a p75NTR modulator, the researchers were able to prevent cholinergic neuronal atrophy and associated behavioral dysfunction. These findings suggest that p75NTR activity plays a crucial role in cholinergic degeneration during adolescent alcohol exposure. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the University of Malaysia Sabah aimed to determine the factors associated with alcohol use among adolescents in Nabawan, Sabah. The study found that 30.7% of the adolescents surveyed reported using alcohol. Factors such as older age, having parents and peers who consume alcohol, good parental monitoring, and discussing serious problems with parents were significantly associated with alcohol use. The researchers recommend the development of policies and programs to address alcohol-related harm reduction and prevention, including school-based programs and programs that focus on family functioning and parent-child communication. Future research should also explore the school environment, adolescents' drinking motives, and the development of practical alcohol screening tools for adolescents. [Extracted from the article]

FEATURES On a chilly evening in September 2020, Jordan Schumacher solemnly patrolled the grounds of Valley Forge Military Academy, near his wit's end. GLO:mjo/01may22:48n1.jpg PHOTO (BLACK & WHITE): Above: "Underweight" cadets receive milk and cod liver oil, circa 1933. gl GLO:mjo/01may22:49n1.jpg PHOTO (BLACK & WHITE): Opposite page: A rappel tower the Army constructed on campus for its Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC), a program in which Valley Forge no longer participates gl GLO:mjo/01may22:46n1.jpg PHOTO (BLACK & WHITE): Previous page, from left: Former cadets Ryan Niessner, Jordan Schumacher, and Young Sheng are among the former cadets speaking out about their experiences at the Forge. gl GLO:mjo/01may22:52n1.jpg PHOTO (BLACK & WHITE): Above: Cadets listen to Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney at a 2012 Valley Forge rally. gl GLO:mjo/01may22:53n1.jpg PHOTO (BLACK & WHITE): Opposite page: Walt Lord, a former Valley Forge president who presided over a brief period of reform before stepping down gl According to Cadets on Campus, a history of military schools, Thayer defended his commandant, Captain John Bliss, after Bliss brutally assaulted a cadet. Schumacher and another former cadet remember Rivera at one point declaring his intent to give cadets an experience the commandant likened to a deployment in "one of the shit-istans.". [Extracted from the article]

The article presents an interview with American singer Ryan Adams. Among the issues he discussed include his attempt to finding redemption and seeking to restart his career following a 2019 allegation that he engaged in a pattern of sexual misconduct and emotional abuse with several female musical artists, the therapy he went through to deal with anxiety, and how he dealt with his divorce from singer Mandy Moore.

A recent study conducted at the University of Derby in the United Kingdom explored public perceptions of consensual underage sex and the effects of age gaps and gender of the perpetrator and respondent. The study found that there was more support for sex with age gaps of up to 2 years compared to larger age gaps. Gender differences were observed, with harsher judgments when the perpetrator was male for age gaps of 3 and 4 years. The research suggests that these findings should be considered by policymakers when reviewing consent laws in the UK. [Extracted from the article]

A preprint abstract from biorxiv.org discusses the relationship between adolescent alcohol consumption and differences in functional connectivity and neuroanatomy. The study found that there is a positive correlation between alcohol consumption and functional connectivity in certain brain regions, as well as negative relationships with neuroanatomical variables. The study suggests that these predictive traits are closely associated with changes in neurodevelopment, indicating that different paths in neurodevelopment can influence adolescents' relationship with alcohol consumption. It is important to note that this preprint has not been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A preprint abstract from biorxiv.org discusses the effects of binge alcohol consumption during adolescence on learning and memory, as well as its impact on the susceptibility to substance use disorders. The study focuses on the Nucleus Basalis Magnocellularis (NbM) as a key site of pathology and the role of the p75NTR receptor in cholinergic degeneration. The researchers used a p75NTR modulator (LM11A-31) to inhibit prodegenerative signaling during ethanol exposure in rats. The results showed that LM11A-31 protected against learning deficits and blunted cholinergic activity caused by alcohol exposure. The study suggests that p75NTR activity plays a crucial role in cholinergic degeneration during adolescent alcohol exposure. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University of Montreal have conducted a study on the long-term effects of adolescent drinking and the impact of zero tolerance laws. The study found that these laws, which set strict alcohol limits for drivers under the age of 21, led to significant improvements in later-life health and labor market outcomes. Individuals exposed to these laws during adolescence were less likely to suffer from cognitive and physical limitations in their 40s and were also less likely to engage in heavy drinking by middle age. The study suggests that adolescent initiation and habit-formation play a crucial role in long-term substance use. [Extracted from the article]

"Little Darlings" is a 1980 film that explores the loss of innocence during adolescence. Set at a summer camp, the movie follows two girls who make a bet to see who can lose their virginity first. Despite its mature subject matter, the film avoids explicit content and instead focuses on the emotional journey of its characters. The recently released Ultra HD combo pack includes a 4K restoration of the film, along with bonus features such as commentaries, interviews, and deleted scenes. [Extracted from the article]

A report from Griffith University discusses research findings on cyberpsychology, specifically the relationship between exposure to peer alcohol use online and adolescent alcohol consumption. The study examined the roles of conscientiousness and excitement seeking in this relationship and found that higher levels of perceived peer alcohol use online were associated with higher adolescent alcohol consumption. Additionally, the study found that excitement seeking moderated the relationship between social networking site alcohol exposure and alcohol use, with participants reporting higher excitement seeking being more susceptible to online alcohol exposure. This research contributes to understanding adolescent drinking by demonstrating personality differences in susceptibility to online alcohol consumption norms. [Extracted from the article]

New research from Flinders University explores the concerns and confusion parents face when it comes to zero-alcohol drinks and adolescents. While these alcohol-free alternatives have become popular among adults, parents are unsure about their suitability, healthiness, and potential harm for teenagers. Parents worry that these drinks may normalize alcohol and lead to increased alcohol consumption. The study recommends a precautionary approach, advising parents not to provide zero-alcohol drinks to their teenagers. Additionally, experts emphasize the importance of parental guidance in shaping healthy behaviors and decision-making regarding alcohol consumption. [Extracted from the article]

The article titled "Mirror, Mirror" is a personal reflection on relationships, identity, and self-discovery. The author discusses their experiences with a former partner named Asha and their subsequent marriage to someone else. They also explore their relationship with their mother and the impact it has had on their understanding of themselves. The author reflects on the complexities of their past relationships and expresses regret for their actions. The text also touches on themes of sexuality and the challenges of finding one's true identity. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the author's experience playing a tabletop role-playing game called Die, which is heavily influenced by Dungeons & Dragons (D&D). The author initially had misconceptions about RPGs, thinking they required costumes and acting like vampires. However, they were intrigued by Die and decided to try it as a freelance journalist. Die allows players to create characters and engage in a conversation-based gameplay, similar to D&D. The game world is built collaboratively, and the game master (GM) listens to players' input and incorporates it into the narrative. The author finds this aspect of Die and D&D to be similar to the magic of a good conversation. [Extracted from the article]

Young people are drinking less alcohol in real life, but films and TV continue to depict heavy drinking among this demographic. Research shows that young people, particularly Gen Z, are increasingly rejecting alcohol compared to older generations. However, on-screen exposure to alcohol remains high, with alcohol being the most frequently portrayed substance in films. This disconnect between real-life drinking habits and on-screen depictions may be due to a lack of representation and understanding of young people's perspectives in the film industry. Changes to regulations and the involvement of Gen Z in the industry may lead to more accurate portrayals of young people's drinking habits on screen. [Extracted from the article]

A report from South China Normal University explores the relationship between parental corporal punishment (PCP), peer victimization (PV), personal growth initiative (PGI), and adolescent drinking. The study found that PV mediates the relationship between PCP and adolescent girls' drinking behavior. Additionally, the positive association between PV and drinking was only significant for girls with low PGI. These findings highlight the importance of a personality trait characterized by spontaneous self-promotion in protecting against adolescent girls' drinking. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from researchers at Howard University College of Medicine explores the relationship between adolescent alcohol drinking and the gut microbiome, and its implications for adult alcohol use disorder (AUD). The researchers highlight the reciprocal communication between the gut microbiota and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis, and how it plays a role in maintaining physiological homeostasis. They suggest that alcohol-associated gut microbiota impairment during adolescence may contribute to the development of AUD in adulthood. The study also discusses potential therapeutic interventions through gut microbiota manipulations. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of the Basque Country in Spain has found that adolescent binge drinking can have long-lasting effects on cognitive functions. The study focused on the impact of alcohol consumption on the cannabinoid type-1 (CB1) receptor in the brain, which is involved in synaptic plasticity, cognition, and behavior. The researchers discovered that binge drinking during adolescence led to a decrease in CB1 receptor expression in various brain regions. However, they also found that supplementation with omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) restored CB1 receptor expression in certain brain regions, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach for mitigating the effects of adolescent binge drinking. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by Arizona State University explores the relationship between parental substance use disorder and adolescent drinking behavior. The research suggests that parental substance use disorder indirectly influences adolescent drinking through negative urgency, a form of impulsivity associated with high-risk drinking. Childhood temperament and parenting are identified as potential mechanisms through which parental substance use disorder is linked to adolescent negative urgency and drinking behavior. The study emphasizes the importance of prevention efforts focused on childhood emotion regulation and emotion-based action in reducing adolescent risk behavior. [Extracted from the article]