Next time you visit the Downtown Boca Raton Public Library to pick up some summer reading materials, take a minute to look around the front lobby.
A new photography exhibit, “Through Our Eyes: Boca Raton Community High School Student Photography,” is on display through July 31 showcasing photographs taken by students in the school’s photography program.
Over 500 Boca High students are enrolled in as many as four photography and digital media courses for college credit through the College Board in the United States and Cambridge University in England.
Leila Levy’s digital photo “Umbrellas” is part of “Through Our Eyes: Boca Raton Community High School Student Photography” exhibit at the Downtown Boca Raton Public Library. (Leila Levy/Courtesy)
“The students work diligently all year to prepare their AP Portfolio for College Board,” said Rob Sweeten, the school’s AP and AICE photography teacher. “We do have the largest AP 2D Art and Design program in the county.”
He teaches them the elements and principles of art; how to properly use cameras and photographic techniques; and how to create and process their images using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. In addition to winning photo contests, the students also serve the school’s yearbook, newspaper and athletic programs.
“Visitors will be impressed with the high standard of artistic merit, creativity and expression in the diverse collection of photos from the Boca High School photography students,” Program Services Librarian Lisa Testa said in a statement. “Congratulations to photography teacher Rob Sweeten for his ability to bring out the best in his students to produce exceptional photos for our community.”
Digital drawing “In the Balance” by Katherine Oberle is featured in the front lobby at the Downtown Boca Raton Public Library through July 31. (Katherine Oberle/Courtesy)
The Downtown Library, 400 NW Second Ave., in Boca Raton is open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays through Sundays.
Library patrons also can sign up for the free Summer Reading program at bocalibrary.readsquared.com, on the READSquared app available through Google Play or the Apple Store, or at the Downtown or Spanish River (1501 NW Spanish River Blvd.) library locations. Incentives such as weekly prizes, wireless earbuds, pins, a raffle to win a Nintendo Switch Lite or an Imagine Your Story Beach Bag with Bluetooth speaker and beach towel, and book lovers’ gift sets are available to babies through fifth grade, grades 6-12 and adults who log their reading hours. A library card is not required to participate.
Multiple injuries reported in Texas boardwalk collapse
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More than a dozen teenagers from a church camp posing for a group photo were injured after a portion of a deck walkway collapsed at a seaside park in Texas, officials said.
The students were visiting Stahlman Park in Surfside Beach, Brazoria County, on Thursday with the Bayou City Fellowship when the incident occurred, the church said. Nearly 80 students from several campuses were on the trip, the church said.
MORE: 12 injured as floor collapses at off-campus apartment party near Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Students from the Bayou City Fellowship’s Cypress campus were taking a group photo when a portion of the deck collapsed around 12:30 p.m. local time, according to the church.
Footage from the scene showed a section of a wooden walkway ramp that had partially detached, falling on the grass below.
Nineteen students between the ages of 14 and 18 suffered non-life-threatening injuries in the incident, according to Brazoria County officials. Five were transported to a Houston-area Memorial Hermann hospital via a helicopter, five were taken by ambulance to local hospitals, and nine were taken to hospitals by private vehicles, the county said.
Multiple police, EMS and fire departments responded to the scene.
MORE: 6 injured at Colorado resort after HVAC system collapses in pool area
“While this is a traumatic event, we are blessed to report that none of the injuries are life-threatening,” Bayou City Fellowship said in a statement. “We are thankful for the outpour of concern from our community and ask that the city and surrounding areas keep all that are affected physically and emotionally in prayer.”
The church said it is not releasing the names of the victims or the nature of their injuries due to privacy concerns.
The incident remains under investigation, the county said.
Stahlman Park is located on the Gulf of Mexico, about 66 miles south of Houston.
(MENAFN- News Direct) SIGMA Corporation of America, the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki. Headquarters: Asao-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan) is pleased to announce the sigma 14mm f1.4 dg dn | art lens. This is the world’s widest F1.4 single focal length lens *, born from our engineers’ passion for capturing the widest, brightest, highest-resolution, and most captivating starry sky images possible.
Designed specifically for astrophotography, the 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art lens is a full-frame , ultra wide-angle prime designed exclusively for mirrorless camera systems, and is available in Sony E-mount and Leica L-Mount .
This lens offers a full set of features designed for astrophotography including a removable tripod socket, MFL switch (Manual Focus Lock function), lens heater retainer, rear filter holder, and a specially-designed front cap including a NEW locking mechanism and NEW filter storage slots. All this, plus thorough aberration correction make this possibly the best lens ever made for astrophotography. Its ultra-wide 14mm angle of view that captures wide starry skies and bright F1.4 aperture that minimizes exposure time are ideal specifications for astrophotography. Incredibly sharp from corner to corner with splash and dust-resistant construction, this lens retains the same high performance and quality standards found within the SIGMA F1.4 Art lens lineup.
The astrophotography-focused feature set and total optical performance make this an excellent lens for high-end architecture, real estate, and landscape photography as well.
The lens will retail for $1,599 through authorized US retailers and will be available in late June 2023 .
* Excluding fisheye lenses, as interchangeable lenses for mirrorless cameras and SLR cameras (as of June, 2023 by SIGMA)
Learn more about the SIGMA 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art lens:
Exclusively designed for full-frame mirrorless cameras
A | Art
SIGMA 14mm F1.4 DG DN
New vision. Expanding possibilities.
Ultra wide-angle 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4 and outstanding optical performance
Abundant functions and accessories to support starscape photography
Signature Art line features and high build quality
The SIGMA 14mm F1.4 DG DN |Art lens
Supplied accessories: Case, COVER LENS CAP LC1014-01, REAR CAP LCR II, TRIPOD SOCKET TS-141, PROTECTIVE COVER PT-41, GUIDE PLATE GP-11
Available mounts: L-Mount, Sony E-mount
* The appearance and specifications of the product are subject to change.
* This product is developed, manufactured and sold based on the specifications of E-mount which was disclosed by Sony Corporation under the license agreement with Sony Corporation.
* L-Mount is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG.
The world’s first and only* lens that combines an ultra-wide angle of 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4.
All for the best starscape photography.
The stars in the sky are a source of inspiration for viewers. On the other hand, the starry sky is a very demanding subject for a wide-angle lens, with its numerous tiny point light sources spread over the entire image. The 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art is the world’s widest F1.4 single focal length lens*, born from our engineers’ passion for capturing the widest, brightest, highest-resolution, and most captivating starry sky possible. Thanks to SIGMA’s latest technology, the lens combines an ultra-wide angle of 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4. In addition, SIGMA’s lens technology has achieved high optical performance with thorough correction of sagittal coma flare, specialized functions to support starry landscape photography, and high-speed AF with the HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) linear motor.
The Milky Way stretching across the night sky, twinkling stars emerging over ridgelines ― the 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art can make this a reality as an image that surpasses the actual photographic experience. Its proven ability in shooting starscapes will provide new possibilities for visual expression and enjoyment in all scenes, including daytime landscapes, architecture, and indoor photography in dark and confined spaces.
* Excluding fisheye lenses, as interchangeable lenses for mirrorless cameras and SLR cameras (as of June, 2023 by SIGMA).
[ Key Features ]
1. Ultra wide-angle 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4 and outstanding optical performance
This world-first performance was achieved by applying the best of SIGMA’s optical technologies, from the design to the lens manufacturing process. 19 elements in 15 groups, including 1 SLD glass element, 3 FLD glass elements, and 4 aspherical lens elements, make up a luxurious lens configuration. This allows for advanced aberration correction and a high degree of precision in the lens construction. This allows both advanced aberration correction and F1.4 brightness. In particular, sagittal coma flare, which distorts the shape of stars, has been carefully corrected, and even at the widest aperture, the lens delivers high image reproducibility right to the periphery of the image. Ghosting and flare are also thoroughly addressed through both optical design and coatings. This allows for clear, crisp shooting of starry sky and night scenes. Optimized for starscapes, which require extremely high performance, this lens delivers images that exceed expectations in any scene, including landscapes, architecture snapshots, portraits, and indoor photography.
2. Abundant functions and accessories to support starscape photography
The 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art is equipped with a wealth of features to support starscape photography. This fully backs up the fun of starscape photography.
Includes a detachable tripod mount compatible with Arca-Swiss type. The 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art can be mounted on a tripod in a more stable condition, as it is heavier on the front side. The shape is designed to prevent interference even when using the lens heater.
MFL (Manual Focus Lock) Switch
A switch to lock the manual focus at a desired position. Prevents focus shift caused by unintentional operation of the focus ring. This is useful for long time exposure photography, etc., where the focus is fixed.
Steps around the front and lens heater retainers prevent the lens heater* from protruding into the front of the lens and causing vignetting on the periphery of the screen.
* A belt-shaped heater that is wrapped around the lens to prevent condensation from forming inside the lens when the temperature drops.
A rear filter holder is provided as standard equipment at the lens mount for attaching a sheet-type rear filter. A lock mechanism is also provided to prevent the filter from falling out.
Special front cap with locking mechanism and filter slots
Includes a cover-type front cap with locking mechanism. It also has a newly developed filter slot that can hold two rear filters depending on the application. The cap is specially designed for the 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art to protect the sheet filters from scratches and dirt while ensuring that they are not mistakenly taken out or forgotten.
3. Signature Art line features and high build quality
In addition to functions specifically designed for shooting starscapes, the lens is equipped with various functions to assist in shooting, including an AFL button to which any function can be assigned and an aperture ring. The body is dust and splash resistant, and the frontmost surface of the lens is coated with a water- and stain-repellent coating, so you can shoot outdoors in harsh environments with peace of mind. The HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) enables high-speed, quiet, and highly accurate autofocusing.
In order to maintain performance while supporting a lens with a large aperture, the lens has a robust internal structure and uses lightweight materials such as polycarbonate TSC (Thermally Stable Composite), which has a thermal shrinkage rate equivalent to that of aluminum, and magnesium in appropriate locations to reduce weight while ensuring robustness. The lens body is built with the high build quality of the Art line specifications, allowing the user to fully enjoy the unique performance of the lens in any environment, including shooting starscapes.
[ Additional Features ]
Lens construction: 19 elements in 15 groups (3 FLD,1 SLD, and 4 aspherical elements)
Inner focus system
Compatible with high-speed autofocus
HLA (High-response Linear Actuator)
Compatible with Lens Aberration Correction
Function available on supported cameras only. Available corrections and auto correction functionality may vary depending on the camera model.
On cameras where lens aberration correction is controlled with ‘ON’ or ‘OFF’ in the camera menu, please set all aberration correction functions to ‘ON’ (AUTO).
Supports DMF and AF+MF
Compatible with AF assist (Sony E-mount only)
Super Multi-Layer Coating
Water and Oil Repellent Coating (front element)
Aperture ring
Aperture ring click switch
Aperture ring lock switch
AFL button
MFL switch
Rear Filter Holder (compatible with GUIDE PLATE GP-11)
Lens Heater Retainer
Focus Mode Switch
Support for switching between linear and non-linear focus ring settings (for L-Mount only)
Dust and Splash Resistant Structure
TRIPOD SOCKET TS-141 supplied
Special front cap with locking mechanism and filter slot: COVER LENS CAP LC1014-01 (NEW)
Compatible with SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 (sold separately / for L-Mount only)
Designed to minimize flare and ghosting
Every single lens undergoes SIGMA’s proprietary MTF measuring system
11-blade rounded diaphragm
High-precision, durable brass bayonet mount
“Made in Japan” craftsmanship
Learn more about SIGMA’s craftsmanship here:
[ Key Specifications ]
The figures below are for the L-Mount version:
Lens Construction:
19 elements in 15 groups (3 FLD, 1 SLD, 4 aspherical)
Angle of view:
114.2°
Number of diaphragm blades:
11 (rounded diaphragm)
Minimum aperture:
F16
Minimum focusing distance:
30cm / 11.9 in.
Maximum magnification ratio
1:11.9
Filter size:
Rear filter only
Dimensions (Max. Diam. x Length):
101.4 x 149.9mm / 4.0 x 5.9 in.
Weight:
1170g / 41.3 oz.
[ Product Barcode ]
Product Name
Barcode
L-Mount:
0085126 451691
Sony E-mount:
0085126 451653
[ Accessories: Supplied ]
COVER LENS CAP LC1014-01:
0085126 940980
REAR CAP LCR II (L-Mount):
0085126 937256
REAR CAP LCR II (Sony E-mount):
0085126 929879
TRIPOD SOCKET TS-141
0085126 940997
PROTECTIVE COVER PT-41
0085126 941000
[ Accessories: Optional ]
SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 for L-Mount:
0085126 878696
[ Contact ]
For further information, please contact your local authorized SIGMA Service Station listed here:
[ Information ]
SIGMA Corporation:
Product information:
[ About SIGMA Corporation ]
Craftsmanship. Precision. Dedication. Since 1961, SIGMA has been devoted to the pursuit of advancing photographic technology. Unique to the industry, the family-owned business produces its high-quality, award-winning still photo and cinema camera lenses, DSLR and mirrorless cameras, flashes, filters and accessories from its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Aizu, Japan.
In 2012, the company introduced SIGMA Global Vision with three distinct lens lines: Art, Contemporary and Sports. Designed for industry camera mount systems including Canon, Fujifilm, Leica, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Sony and SIGMA, each lens is handcrafted and tested in Japan to ensure a high-performance, premium product that is purpose-built to last. In 2016, the SIGMA Cine lens lineup was launched, further cementing SIGMA as an innovator in imaging engineering. Embodying the core optical DNA that has defined the SIGMA benchmark of excellence, SIGMA Cine lenses meet the needs of advanced 6k and 8k cinema production.
Forming the landmark L-Mount alliance alongside Leica and Panasonic in 2018, SIGMA continues its storied tradition of imaging excellence through groundbreaking innovations such as the native L-mount SIGMA fp and fp L full-frame mirrorless digital cameras, announced in July 2019 and March 2021 respectively. These products, along with over 30 award-winning SIGMA Global Vision lenses available in native L-Mount format, demonstrate SIGMA’s continued commitment to the creative community through expanded product offerings. With the fp, fp L and these lenses, even more users can now leverage SIGMA’s renowned optical formula to achieve their creative vision with ease.
For information about SIGMA America, please visit sigmaphoto.com and sigma blog for helpful information about our products.
Follow SIGMA America (Photo):
facebook , twitter and instagram
Follow SIGMA Ameica (Cine):
facebook , twitter and instagram
MENAFN08062023005728012573ID1106413750
Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Sigma has announced the first full-frame 14mm lens with a maximum aperture of f/1.4. The Sigma 14mm F1.4 DG DN Art , price £1399.99 / $1599.99, will be available with the L-mount or Sony E-mount. As yet we have no information about whether it will become available in any other mounts.
That large aperture means that the Sigma 14mm F1.4 DG DN Art is two-thirds of a stop brighter than the Sigma 14mm F1.8 DG HSM Art for DSLR cameras. Consequently, the new lens allows 58% more light to reach the camera’s imaging sensor. That’s great news for use in low light and capturing images of the night sky.
The lens is designed with astrophotography in mind and it’s constructed from 19 elements arranged in 15 groups with 1 SLD (Special Low Dispersion), 3 FLD (‘F’ Low Dispersion) and 4 aspherical elements. Sigma has paid particular attention to the image quality when the focus is at infinity and sagittal coma flare is said to be controlled very well so that small, bright points of light are super-sharp across the frame and at every aperture setting. This optical design also ensures good corner sharpness and well-controlled chromatic aberration.
Meanwhile, in-camera optical aberration correction profiles deal with any distortion or vignetting to help keep the lens’ size and weight down.
The Sigma 14mm F1.4 DG DN Art features an aperture ring with an ‘A’ for auto setting to hand over control to the camera. This ring can be used with a click or ‘de-clicked’.
Like the Sigma 20mm F1.4, DG DN Art, the 14mm F1.4 DG DN Art has a Lens Heater Retainer to keep a heat strip in place to prevent condensation from building up on the front element in cold conditions.
In addition, there’s a filter holder at the end of the lens that accepts gel filter sheets. The lens comes with a cap with a holder for two of these soft filters.
There’s a manual focus lock (MFL) on the side of the barrel to enable photographers to set the focus to infinity and then lock it in place. There’s also an AFL button that can be customised to access useful features, including an autofocus lock.
To help deal with the weight that is an inevitable aspect of such a wide, larger aperture lens, Sigma supplies the TS-141 Tripod Socket in the box to deliver a more balanced arrangement when the camera and lens are mounted on a tripod.
The 14mm F1.4 DG DN is the third lens to feature Sigma’s new High-response Linear Actuator (HLA) motor to enable faster, smoother, quieter and more accurate focusing than a stepping motor.
Sigma 14mm F1.4 DG DN Art price and availability
Specification
Lens type: Full-frame wideangle prime
Announced: 8th June 2023
Available mounts: L-mount, Sony E-mount (FE)
Focal length: 14mm
Construction: 19 elements in 15 groups, with 1 SLD, 3 FLD, 4 aspherical elements
Weathersealed: Yes
Coatings: Super Multi-Layer Coating, Front element: oil and water repellent coating
Number of aperture blades: 11
Angle of view: 114.5°
Focus mechanism: HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) motor
Closest focusing distance: 30cm
Maximum magnification ratio: 1:11.9
Maximum aperture: f/1.4
Minimum aperture: f/16
Filter type: Rear
Supplied accessory: Petal lens hood, magnetic front lens cap, rear cap
Dimensions (diameter x length): 101.4 x 149.9mm
Weight: 1170g
The Sigma 14mm F1.4 DG DN Art’s price is £1399.99 / $1599.99, and it will go on sale on 23rd June 2023.
Photo Illustration by Lecia Landis for Verywell Health; Getty Images
Fact checked by Nick Blackmer
Key Takeaways
Users on social media are touting a drugstore supplement called berberine as “nature’s Ozempic.”
Berberine may be able to help manage blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
Berberine has a different mechanism of action than prescription drugs like Ozempic, and is not proven to support weight loss.
People who are considering berberine should consult with their healthcare provider before trying it.
An over-the-counter dietary supplement called berberine is being labeled as a “natural” dupe for Ozempic, a prescription medication used to stabilize blood sugar and may help patients with type 2 diabetes lose weight.
Users all over social media are claiming that the supplement can help lower blood glucose, improve insulin sensitivity, and go as far as helping people shed a few pounds. The search term “berberine supplement” has well over 300 million views and counting on TikTok, and #berberine has about 67 million views.
But as with all social media health hacks and trends, there’s the question of whether or not any of these claims can be backed by science. Here’s what experts have to say about berberine, and whether or not it could be a decent option for patients who can’t get their hands on popular injectable medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro.
Related: What's the Difference Between Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro?
What Is Berberine and What Is It Intended For?
Berberine is a natural compound called an alkaloid that’s extracted from a variety of plants, including goldenseal, European barberry, Oregon grape, phellodendron, and tree turmeric, Lisa Kroon, PharmD, Professor and Chair of the Department of Clinical Pharmacy in the School of Pharmacy at the University of California in San Francisco, told Verywell.
People most who take berberine consume it as a supplement, which can come in many forms like capsules, tablets, liquid extracts, or powders, Kroon said. It has also been used in eye drops and gels.
While the drugstore supplement has recently increased in popularity due to social media, it’s been used for centuries, especially in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, Mir B Ali, MD, bariatric surgeon and medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast, told Verywell. In fact, providers may recommend berberine for people with diabetes to help lower their blood sugar and cholesterol.
“It has also been shown to have some antimicrobial effects so it can affect the normal intestinal bacteria,” Ali said.
Berberine is believed to have these effects is because it may target a protein involved in insulin resistance and blood sugar control, which positively impacts how our cells can utilize blood glucose, Megan Hilbert, MS, RDN, a registered dietitian specializing in gut health nutrition at Top Nutrition Coaching, told Verywell in an email. In turn, these alkaloids can “reduce the risk of diabetes and metabolic syndrome.”
According to the National Library of Medicine, berberine can also be used for burns, canker sores, liver disease, and many other conditions. But there is not enough well-studied scientific evidence to support many of these uses.
“It’s absolutely not nature’s Ozempic and does not work like Ozempic, which is a GLP-1 inhibitor,” Kroon said. “I think people are just grasping here and manufacturers of these supplements are just kind of creating a hype to try to be appealing for people looking for a magic potion to help them lose weight.”
How to Get Berberine
Berberine is available over-the-counter and can be purchased online or in stores, usually in a supplement capsule form, Hilbert said. Dosages for berberine range between 500 to 1,500 milligrams per day, but typically, it’s taken in doses of 500 milligrams, three times a day.
Depending on the online retailer or store, most berberine supplements can be purchased anywhere from $12 to 50 dollars, Hilbert added.
Comparatively, GLP-1 agonist drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro require prescriptions and can cost as much as $1,000 out of pocket.
Can Berberine Be Used For Weight Loss?
Although berberine can have similar health benefits to prescription medications when it comes to reducing blood sugar and cholesterol levels, it’s not clear if the supplement is effective when it comes to weight loss, Ali said. Diabetes drugs Ozempic and Mounjaro can be prescribed off-label for weight loss, while Wegovy is indicated for weight loss.
“People are saying that [berberine] is equivalent, but there’s no real evidence to show that it’s equivalent to those medications,” Ali said. “It has shown to have some modest amount of effect on weight loss, but it’s not the same effect as the prescribed medications.”
The reason berberine does not have the same exact effect as Ozempic is because its mechanism of action is different, Kroon said. Ozempic, which is a GLP-1 inhibitor, helps the pancreas release the right amount of insulin when a patient’s blood sugar is high, which in turn reduces their blood glucose levels. Semaglutide medications like Ozempic slow down how quickly your stomach empties food, which can lead to decreased appetite and weight loss.
“Semaglutide also helps to reduce a hormone called glucagon after we eat and that helps reduce our blood sugar. So, [Ozempic] has many ways of how it works for diabetes, including effect on weight,” Kroon said. “Berberine doesn’t work anything like that; it is a completely different mechanism.”
Instead, berberine activates an enzyme called AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which can help regulate glucose metabolism, improve insulin sensitivity, and impact blood sugar levels.
Still, a bit of research on berberine’s effectiveness for weight loss and diabetes does exist. One meta-analysis of 27 studies found that the supplement may be just as effective as certain oral diabetes medications, such as metformin and glipizide, when it comes to blood glucose control. And a study from 2012 found seven people with obesity who took 500 milligrams of berberine three times per day for 12 weeks lost on average about 5 pounds of weight. More recently, a review of 12 studies from 2020 suggested that berberine supplements can potentially impact body weight, body mass index (BMI), and belly fat.
While there are some studies to suggest berberine supplements may have a positive impact on people’s health, more research is needed to draw meaningful conclusions about whether or not berberine is effective for weight loss.
Related: These Are the Supplements You Should Avoid Taking Together
Do Experts Recommend Trying Berberine?
According to Ali, deciding whether or not to use berberine supplements for weight loss should be a decision you make with your healthcare provider. Although it’s not “nature’s Ozempic,” it can be a more accessible option for some patients, especially since it does not require a prescription.
“I don’t think berberine would be harmful for the majority of patients, but it’s still not clear how effective it is for weight loss,” Ali said. “I think it’s reasonable to try it as a supplement to healthy lifestyle and diet changes, but I don’t want people to think that it’s the equivalent of prescribed medications.”
Hilbert added that even though there aren’t a lot of studies showing berberine has harmful reactions or outcomes, some people who use the supplement may experience minor side effects, including diarrhea, constipation, nausea, bloating, and other gastrointestinal issues.
“Berberine does appear to be safe for adults to use in the short-term,” said Hilbert. “But long-term use has not been studied and some animal studies report some severe side effects with long-term berberine use like enlarged liver/kidneys, muscle tremors, and gastric ulcers.”
Before you decide to use berberine, it’s important to note that these supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and have not been studied on a large scale, Kroon noted.
“Medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy are FDA-regulated and well-studied for indications like diabetes or weight loss, whereas nutritional supplements like berberine are not FDA regulated,” she said. “I would really advise not to jump on the bandwagon here and think that berberine is going to work like a prescription medicine, because it’s not going to. You could be spending a good $50+ out of pocket.”
What This Means For You
Experts say people who use berberine may not see the same results as other prescription medications intended for weight loss. Before trying berberine, you should speak with your healthcare provider, especially if you have certain health conditions like diabetes or are taking other medications and supplements.
Ronkonkoma, NY –News Direct– SIGMA CORPORATION OF AMERICA
SIGMA Corporation of America, the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki. Headquarters: Asao-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan) is pleased to announce the SIGMA 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art lens. This is the world’s widest F1.4 single focal length lens*, born from our engineers’ passion for capturing the widest, brightest, highest-resolution, and most captivating starry sky images possible.
Designed specifically for astrophotography, the 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art lens is a full-frame, ultra wide-angle prime designed exclusively for mirrorless camera systems, and is available in Sony E-mount and Leica L-Mount.
This lens offers a full set of features designed for astrophotography including a removable tripod socket, MFL switch (Manual Focus Lock function), lens heater retainer, rear filter holder, and a specially-designed front cap including a NEW locking mechanism and NEW filter storage slots. All this, plus thorough aberration correction make this possibly the best lens ever made for astrophotography. Its ultra-wide 14mm angle of view that captures wide starry skies and bright F1.4 aperture that minimizes exposure time are ideal specifications for astrophotography. Incredibly sharp from corner to corner with splash and dust-resistant construction, this lens retains the same high performance and quality standards found within the SIGMA F1.4 Art lens lineup.
The astrophotography-focused feature set and total optical performance make this an excellent lens for high-end architecture, real estate, and landscape photography as well.
The lens will retail for $1,599 through authorized US retailers and will be available in late June 2023.
* Excluding fisheye lenses, as interchangeable lenses for mirrorless cameras and SLR cameras (as of June, 2023 by SIGMA)
Learn more about the SIGMA 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art lens:https://www.sigmaphoto.com/14mm-f1-4-dg-dn-a
Exclusively designed for full-frame mirrorless cameras
A | Art
SIGMA 14mm F1.4 DG DN
New vision. Expanding possibilities.
Ultra wide-angle 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4 and outstanding optical performance
Abundant functions and accessories to support starscape photography
Signature Art line features and high build quality
The SIGMA 14mm F1.4 DG DN |Art lens
Supplied accessories: Case, COVER LENS CAP LC1014-01, REAR CAP LCR II, TRIPOD SOCKET TS-141, PROTECTIVE COVER PT-41, GUIDE PLATE GP-11
Available mounts: L-Mount, Sony E-mount
* The appearance and specifications of the product are subject to change.
* This product is developed, manufactured and sold based on the specifications of E-mount which was disclosed by Sony Corporation under the license agreement with Sony Corporation.
* L-Mount is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG.
The world’s first and only* lens that combines an ultra-wide angle of 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4.
All for the best starscape photography.
The stars in the sky are a source of inspiration for viewers. On the other hand, the starry sky is a very demanding subject for a wide-angle lens, with its numerous tiny point light sources spread over the entire image. The 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art is the world’s widest F1.4 single focal length lens*, born from our engineers’ passion for capturing the widest, brightest, highest-resolution, and most captivating starry sky possible. Thanks to SIGMA’s latest technology, the lens combines an ultra-wide angle of 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4. In addition, SIGMA’s lens technology has achieved high optical performance with thorough correction of sagittal coma flare, specialized functions to support starry landscape photography, and high-speed AF with the HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) linear motor.
The Milky Way stretching across the night sky, twinkling stars emerging over ridgelines ― the 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art can make this a reality as an image that surpasses the actual photographic experience. Its proven ability in shooting starscapes will provide new possibilities for visual expression and enjoyment in all scenes, including daytime landscapes, architecture, and indoor photography in dark and confined spaces.
* Excluding fisheye lenses, as interchangeable lenses for mirrorless cameras and SLR cameras (as of June, 2023 by SIGMA).
[ Key Features ]
1. Ultra wide-angle 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4 and outstanding optical performance
This world-first performance was achieved by applying the best of SIGMA’s optical technologies, from the design to the lens manufacturing process. 19 elements in 15 groups, including 1 SLD glass element, 3 FLD glass elements, and 4 aspherical lens elements, make up a luxurious lens configuration. This allows for advanced aberration correction and a high degree of precision in the lens construction. This allows both advanced aberration correction and F1.4 brightness. In particular, sagittal coma flare, which distorts the shape of stars, has been carefully corrected, and even at the widest aperture, the lens delivers high image reproducibility right to the periphery of the image. Ghosting and flare are also thoroughly addressed through both optical design and coatings. This allows for clear, crisp shooting of starry sky and night scenes. Optimized for starscapes, which require extremely high performance, this lens delivers images that exceed expectations in any scene, including landscapes, architecture snapshots, portraits, and indoor photography.
2. Abundant functions and accessories to support starscape photography
The 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art is equipped with a wealth of features to support starscape photography. This fully backs up the fun of starscape photography.
Includes a detachable tripod mount compatible with Arca-Swiss type. The 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art can be mounted on a tripod in a more stable condition, as it is heavier on the front side. The shape is designed to prevent interference even when using the lens heater.
A switch to lock the manual focus at a desired position. Prevents focus shift caused by unintentional operation of the focus ring. This is useful for long time exposure photography, etc., where the focus is fixed.
Steps around the front and lens heater retainers prevent the lens heater* from protruding into the front of the lens and causing vignetting on the periphery of the screen.
* A belt-shaped heater that is wrapped around the lens to prevent condensation from forming inside the lens when the temperature drops.
A rear filter holder is provided as standard equipment at the lens mount for attaching a sheet-type rear filter. A lock mechanism is also provided to prevent the filter from falling out.
Includes a cover-type front cap with locking mechanism. It also has a newly developed filter slot that can hold two rear filters depending on the application. The cap is specially designed for the 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art to protect the sheet filters from scratches and dirt while ensuring that they are not mistakenly taken out or forgotten.
3. Signature Art line features and high build quality
In addition to functions specifically designed for shooting starscapes, the lens is equipped with various functions to assist in shooting, including an AFL button to which any function can be assigned and an aperture ring. The body is dust and splash resistant, and the frontmost surface of the lens is coated with a water- and stain-repellent coating, so you can shoot outdoors in harsh environments with peace of mind. The HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) enables high-speed, quiet, and highly accurate autofocusing.
In order to maintain performance while supporting a lens with a large aperture, the lens has a robust internal structure and uses lightweight materials such as polycarbonate TSC (Thermally Stable Composite), which has a thermal shrinkage rate equivalent to that of aluminum, and magnesium in appropriate locations to reduce weight while ensuring robustness. The lens body is built with the high build quality of the Art line specifications, allowing the user to fully enjoy the unique performance of the lens in any environment, including shooting starscapes.
[ Additional Features ]
Lens construction: 19 elements in 15 groups (3 FLD,1 SLD, and 4 aspherical elements)
Inner focus system
Compatible with high-speed autofocus
HLA (High-response Linear Actuator)
Compatible with Lens Aberration Correction
Function available on supported cameras only. Available corrections and auto correction functionality may vary depending on the camera model.
On cameras where lens aberration correction is controlled with ‘ON’ or ‘OFF’ in the camera menu, please set all aberration correction functions to ‘ON’ (AUTO).
Supports DMF and AF+MF
Compatible with AF assist (Sony E-mount only)
Super Multi-Layer Coating
Water and Oil Repellent Coating (front element)
Aperture ring
Aperture ring click switch
Aperture ring lock switch
AFL button
MFL switch
Rear Filter Holder (compatible with GUIDE PLATE GP-11)
Lens Heater Retainer
Focus Mode Switch
Support for switching between linear and non-linear focus ring settings (for L-Mount only)
Dust and Splash Resistant Structure
TRIPOD SOCKET TS-141 supplied
Special front cap with locking mechanism and filter slot: COVER LENS CAP LC1014-01 (NEW)
Compatible with SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 (sold separately / for L-Mount only)
Designed to minimize flare and ghosting
Every single lens undergoes SIGMA’s proprietary MTF measuring system
Craftsmanship. Precision. Dedication. Since 1961, SIGMA has been devoted to the pursuit of advancing photographic technology. Unique to the industry, the family-owned business produces its high-quality, award-winning still photo and cinema camera lenses, DSLR and mirrorless cameras, flashes, filters and accessories from its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Aizu, Japan.
In 2012, the company introduced SIGMA Global Vision with three distinct lens lines: Art, Contemporary and Sports. Designed for industry camera mount systems including Canon, Fujifilm, Leica, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Sony and SIGMA, each lens is handcrafted and tested in Japan to ensure a high-performance, premium product that is purpose-built to last. In 2016, the SIGMA Cine lens lineup was launched, further cementing SIGMA as an innovator in imaging engineering. Embodying the core optical DNA that has defined the SIGMA benchmark of excellence, SIGMA Cine lenses meet the needs of advanced 6k and 8k cinema production.
Forming the landmark L-Mount alliance alongside Leica and Panasonic in 2018, SIGMA continues its storied tradition of imaging excellence through groundbreaking innovations such as the native L-mount SIGMA fp and fp L full-frame mirrorless digital cameras, announced in July 2019 and March 2021 respectively. These products, along with over 30 award-winning SIGMA Global Vision lenses available in native L-Mount format, demonstrate SIGMA’s continued commitment to the creative community through expanded product offerings. With the fp, fp L and these lenses, even more users can now leverage SIGMA’s renowned optical formula to achieve their creative vision with ease.
For information about SIGMA America, please visit sigmaphoto.com and SIGMA Blog for helpful information about our products.
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Need help to figure out how to make your brand pop? Then you’ll need to learn about picking the right type of graphic design style for your marketing strategy.
There are many ways to showcase your business’s story to the world. But to get your target market to pay attention, you need a unique way to present your brand.
While there are many ways to go about it, the correct visual content can help you stand out. If you need help figuring out where to begin, read for several graphic design tips to help create your style.
Understand Your Brand
Knowing your brand helps you choose a design that reflects and communicates your brand personality, which makes it easier for your target audience to connect with your message. Consider what feels most true to your brand. Also, consider what looks most appealing or exciting to your audience to ensure your design is natural and attractive.
Find out what the latest graphic design trends are and what kinds of technology people use. You should try this out so your marketing images are always modern and up-to-date. The goal is to make an exciting image that makes your target audience feel something.
Research Competitors and Industry Trends
This will help you understand the visual design representations used in the market and whether there are any patterns. From there, you can analyze the elements used in industry-leading designs and determine which ones fit your brand the best.
Take note of the colors, fonts, imagery, and layout used in competitor designs and how they could adapt them to represent your brand best. Select from your gathered options and create a unique design highlighting your brand’s unique identity.
Determine Your Marketing Objectives
When setting marketing goals, consider your brand identity, target audience, product, and budget. After deciding what you want, research styles to find the best fit for your audience and company.
Graphic design functions on different systems, so consider that too. After determining your style, you must create distinctive photos for your projects.
Keep all your photos consistent to showcase your style and attract your audience. Your photos can generate leads and communicate your message with the appropriate strategy.
Review Design Styles
Reviewing design styles is an essential part of the decision-making process. Assess the purpose of the message you’re trying to communicate and the image you want to portray.
A minimalist design is best for a more concise and clear message. A more complex design could lead to an eye-catching design with a more layered message. If you’re communicating a serious note, a formal style with a more structured font and colors can convey gravitas.
Tips When Choosing the Type of Graphic Design
It’s essential to consider the purpose and audience of your marketing strategy when selecting a graphic design style. By researching the different type of graphic design available and taking the time to experiment, you can create a look that reflects your brand.
With a vision and a plan, you’ll be well on your way to creating compelling visuals that get the desired results. Get started today by reaching out to a professional design team.
Found this article helpful? Please browse through our other blog posts for more tips.
An AI-generated image of Tom Cruise and his doppelgangers has recently been shared with a false claim that it is a real photo of the Hollywood actor posing with his body doubles ahead of the release of his upcoming action film, Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One.
American director Christopher McQuarrie’s new film and the seventh part of the spy-thriller franchise Mission Impossible is all set to release in July this year. The film will witness Cruise tracking down a deadly weapon which poses a threat to the humanity. Cruise in the recently released trailer can be seen performing some death-defying stunts as a part of the challenging mission.
Amid this, filmmaker Lakshmi R Iyer tweeted the image showing Cruise with his body doubles with a caption saying, “Tom Cruise’s stunt doubles at the wrap party of Mission Impossible 7”.
Also Read:AI Photos Of Dwayne Johnson Peddled As “The Rock” Embracing Hinduism
Fact Check
BOOM first noticed that the photo features three identical looking people and all of them have strikingly waxy skin tone. We also observed that the men featured in the image lack the natural wrinkles on their foreheads.
To draw a comparison, we compared the photo with a real image of Tom Cruise and found significant anomalies in the viral picture.
Taking a cue, we observed the details in the viral picture and identified three significant discrepancies present in the image.
First, we noticed the left hand of the person in the middle and found that there is no nail on his fingers. Second, the skin of the man standing in the right can be seen blending with the shirt he is wearing.
Third, the decor in the background which appears to be a chandelier is incomplete in nature.
We observed these details after zooming in the viral photo. A zoomed view of the compromised areas can be seen below.
Then, we did a related search using keywords such as “Tom Cruise Stunt Double” and found the same photo on a Facebook post carrying a set of AI-generated images.
The post was made on a Facebook group named Midjourney Official. An excerpt from the group’s description reads, “This is the official Facebook group for Midjourney, a cutting-edge text-to-image generative artificial intelligence program and service.”
We also noticed that the user who posted the image mentioned in Thai that the images were created using Midjourney, in one of the comments. The comments can be seen below.
SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Springs resident AnneMarie Todd has always viewed her camera as a security blanket.
After suffering four traumatic brain injuries, her affinity for photography was the one skill that remained perfectly intact.
More than 20 years after her diagnosis, Todd is the recipient of the Brain Injury Association of New York State’s Silent Angel Award for her photography. She will be recognized this week at the organization’s annual conference, which brings together professionals, caregivers, service providers and brain injury survivors for two days of interactive workshops and educational sessions in Saratoga Springs.
To Todd, the recognition means her volunteer work and advocacy haven’t gone unnoticed. “It’s acknowledging that they’re appreciating all the hard work that I’m putting into this, that they are paying attention to my contributions,” she said.
Todd was introduced to photography by her father and, throughout her life, could often be found attached to a camera. After graduating from college with a journalism degree, Todd spent years doing wedding photography and filming local television commercials.
But when she moved back to Saratoga Springs from Baltimore, it was clear to her family that there was something wrong. “I was making really dumb decisions that my family would say weren’t stable,” Todd said about the time of her life when her “body fell apart not physically but cognitively and emotionally.”
She went from clinician to clinician with no answer, until she landed in Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital in Schenectady in February 2002. It was there that she was diagnosed with four traumatic brain injuries from four car accidents that occurred over 10 years when she was 19 to 30 years old. The diagnosis, she says, allowed her to “emerge from the darkness.”
For the next several years, Todd struggled to relearn everyday tasks, figuring out what she could do without help and what she couldn’t. Through all of this, navigating life through a camera lens provided her with a sense of normalcy and solace.
When Todd attended her first BIANYS meeting years later, she said “it opened up an entirely new world.” Suddenly, she had a community of people who shared her story and suffered from the same cognitive symptoms. She continued attending workshops and conferences, snapping photos throughout so she could remember keynote speakers and topics despite her short-term memory loss.
At the request of BIANYS, Todd eventually stepped into the role of the organization’s go-to volunteer photographer. Since Todd said she is unable to get a job due to her cognitive delays and fatigue, the work allows her to channel her creative skillset in a safe environment. She’s also become a vocal advocate for the brain injury community, raising awareness about those who struggle with traumatic brain injuries in silence.
“This recognition is humbling and overwhelming,” she said about the award. “To others, it may seem like it’s hard work for me but I’m in my element and I absolutely love doing it.”
Earth Photo, a programme that showcases images depicting the issues affecting the climate and life on our planet, has announced the shortlist for this year’s competition.
Photographers and filmmakers entered their work in Earth Photo 2023, the international competition and exhibition for images that tell compelling stories about the planet. A judging panel made up of experts from the fields of photography, film, geography and the environment selected the best of 1,400 entries, ending with 128 photos and videos.
The shortlisted images will be available to see in the Earth Photo exhibition at the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) in London from June 17 to August 23 as well as five Forestry England sites across the country from June 23 to January 28, 2024.
The exhibition will also tour the Sidney Nolan Trust in Herefordshire, from July 13 to September 30, The Lost Gardens of Heligan in Cornwall from February 1, 2024 to March 1, 2024 and the Lishui International Photography Festival, China, in December 2023. All images will also be available to view on the Earth Photo website.
The winners will be announced at the Earth Photo 2023 Awards Ceremony on June 22 at the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG). If you would like to attend the ceremony please sign up at www.rgs.org/events/summer-2023/earth-photo-2023-awards-ceremony-and-panel/
Spirit and Soul of the Annapurna Region, Nepal: The hill farmers of the Modi Valley in Gandaki Province, live in harmony with nature in arduous terrain amid the threat of heavy monsoons and landslides. Their buffalos produce milk for hot buffalo milk-tea, a local delicacy
JU SHEN LEE
The embrace of a mother: Yamina, of the Beni Guil nomads, shields her children from the harsh gusts near their home on the outskirts of Tendrara, Morocco. Winds of up to 60mph whip sand and dirt across the parched terrain
YZZA SLAOUI
Honor Loxton, of Crate to Plate, in Elephant and Castle, south London. The company grows fresh produce including lettuce, rocket, kale, basil, parsley, coriander and mint in shipping containers using hydroponics
JOANNA VESTEY
The Holderness coast on the East Riding of Yorkshire has the highest rate of coastal erosion in Europe. A project called Lost Villages is documenting the irreversible change to the landscape. It is estimated that up to 32 villages dating back to Roman times have already been lost
NEIL WHITE
Save our forests: Sonia Bhamra is using the ancient wisdom of Sikh theology to address the negative impact humans are having on the planet and how we are destroying the very nature we are part of
SONIA BHAMRA
Monster of Damodar: A lack of freshwater from global warming means fishermen in West Bengal, India, have to navigate through a thick growth of algae. Health and livelihoods are threatened by environmental degradation on the Damodar River
SANDIPANI CHATTOPADHYAY
Searching for life: Elsewhere in West Bengal, the lack of rain is causing a severe drinking water crisis. The Bankura district in West Bengal is badly affected with villagers having to collect muddy water from dried river beds and filter it to make it drinkable
SANDIPANI CHATTOPADHYAY
In Accra, the capital of Ghana, 35-year-old Nurideen breaks down a broken battery charger inverter, which was used as backup device in a solar energy storage system. He will resell valuable material inside such as copper or metal. Unusable material is burnt, which releases toxic gases
SANDRA WELLER
A protected ancient forest in Eagle Fern Park, Oregon, where trees in the barren land are left to decompose naturally
LIZA FAKTOR
A surreal take on a beach scene at Barcelona illustrates what the landscape would look like without surrounding vegetation
MARCEL STAHN
No need to rush for this peacock, making its way at a stately pace across the road in Rodeo, California
ANNETTE BURKE
Members of the Hezoudé beekeepers association in the Abdoulaye Forest, Togo, sustainably produce forest honey from the nature reserve. Every year the forest shrinks, forcing transient people to look for new places to settle
THOMAS MARTIN
Farmland in Sylhet, Bangladesh, was devastated when seasonal rains in May last year set off a series of flash floods. Some 7.2 million people across nine districts were affected by the catastrophe with villages submerged and thousands of hectares of agricultural lands lost
SUBRATA DEY
The search for food drives elephants into the paddy fields of Sherpur in Bangladesh in the dead of night
K M ASAD
A desperate scene in Kishoreganj, Bangladesh, where monsoon rains caused widespread flooding. Bangladesh has experienced increasing extreme weather in recent years, causing large-scale damage. Environmentalists warn climate change could lead to more disasters, especially in low-lying and densely populated areas
AZIM KHAN RONNIE
Poznan zoo in Poland agreed to take exotic animals that were at risk of being abandoned during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Since the invasion, a big effort to save domestic, wild and endangered animals has been carried out by volunteers, army and territorial defence in Ukraine
MICHAL SIAREK
A bumblebee hovers in a meadow in Vestfold/Viken, eastern Norway
PAL HERMANSEN
A beachside property is swallowed by a collapsing cliff at Akrotiri Red Beach in Greece
SEBASTIAN LEWANDOWSKI
The vast scale of brickmaking industries in Bangladesh is causing havoc with the surrounding environment in the capital Dhaka. It is estimated that one million people churn out tens of billions of bricks each year across 7,000 separate kilns
AZIM KHAN RONNIE
Light reflects off a chalk stream in Dorset. Southern England contains 85 per cent of the world’s chalk streams, but they face a growing threat from sewage overspill, water abstraction, farmland run-off and the practice of stocking them with trout for sport fishing
