.. (two periods), also known as the parent directory or superdirectory, is a special directory in hierarchical file systems that represents the directory that contains the current working directory. Purpose: * To navigate up one level in the directory hierarchy. * To reference the parent directory of a specific file or directory. * To simplify path traversal in commands and scripts. Usage: ‘..’ is used as a path component in various commands and scripts to: * Change to the parent directory: `cd ..` * Reference the parent directory of a file or directory: `/path/to/file/../another_file` would refer to the file ‘another_file’ in the parent directory of ‘file’. * Simplify path traversal: Instead of navigating through multiple subdirectories manually, using ‘..’ can quickly move up the directory structure. Example: Suppose you have the following directory structure: “` /home |– user1 |– documents |– work |– project1 “` To navigate from ‘project1’ to the ‘documents’ directory, you can use the following command: “` cd ../../../documents “` Alternatively, you can use ‘..’ to simplify the path traversal: “` cd ../../documents “` Advantages: * Simplified path navigation: ‘..’ allows for quick and easy movement up the directory hierarchy. * Less typing: Using ‘..’ reduces the number of characters required to navigate to parent directories. * Portable: ‘..’ is a standard component of hierarchical file systems, making it portable across different operating systems. Note: * ‘..’ should not be confused with ‘.’ (single period), which represents the current working directory. * In Windows systems, ‘..’ is typically hidden from view, but it can be accessed by entering `..` in the file explorer address bar.Ellipsis: The Dot-Dot-Dot
Ellipsis: The Dot-Dot-Dot Ellipsis, denoted by three periods (…), is a punctuation mark used to indicate an omission, pause, or unfinished thought. It creates a sense of suspense or hesitation, inviting the reader to fill in the blanks or draw their own conclusions. Uses of Ellipsis: * Omissions: Ellipsis can be used to indicate missing text or words. For example: “The letter began, ‘My dearest…'” * Pauses: Ellipsis can create a dramatic pause or break in the flow of speech or writing. For example, “He hesitated…” * Unfinished Thoughts: Ellipsis can suggest that a thought is incomplete or left unsaid. For example, “I’m not sure… maybe it’s better if we don’t talk about it.” * Descriptive Effect: Ellipsis can be used to evoke a sense of mystery, anticipation, or uncertainty. For example, “The forest stretched endlessly into the distance…” * Emphasis: Ellipsis can add emphasis to a word or phrase by pausing before it. For example, “He was… well, let’s just say he wasn’t the most charming person I’ve ever met.” Placement: Ellipsis is typically placed within a sentence and surrounded by spaces. It should not be enclosed in quotation marks unless it is part of a quoted text. Avoidance of Ellipsis: Ellipsis should be used sparingly and with caution. Excessive use can make writing choppy and difficult to read. It should not be used to replace essential words or ideas. Examples: * “As I turned the corner, I saw… well, I’d rather not say.” * “The journey was long and arduous… but we made it.” * “Her eyes held a mystery that I couldn’t quite decipher…” * “I’m afraid… I can’t do this anymore.” * “The world is a strange and wonderful place…” Ellipsis is a powerful punctuation mark that can add depth and nuance to writing. By using it effectively, writers can create a sense of suspense, evoke emotions, and leave a lasting impression on their readers.
New COVID-19 Treatment Shows Promise A new treatment for COVID-19, known as Paxlovid, has shown promising results in clinical trials. The drug, which is taken orally, has been shown to reduce the risk of hospitalization and death by 89% in high-risk patients. Paxlovid is a combination of two antiviral drugs, nirmatrelvir and ritonavir. Nirmatrelvir blocks the replication of the virus, while ritonavir helps to keep nirmatrelvir in the body for longer periods of time. The clinical trials, which were conducted by Pfizer, involved over 2,000 people who had recently been diagnosed with COVID-19. Half of the participants received Paxlovid, while the other half received a placebo. The results of the trials showed that Paxlovid was safe and well-tolerated. The most common side effects were diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Paxlovid is expected to be authorized for use in the United States in the coming weeks. It is likely to become an important tool in the fight against COVID-19, particularly for high-risk patients.
