Can’t touch this: “Latex-free” labels are misleading
Finally, LaTeX In HTML Files
Writing a paper in LaTeX will always result in beautiful output, but if you'd like to put that document up on the web you're limited to two reasonable options: serve the document as a .PDF (with the horrors involves, although Chrome makes things much more palatable), or relying on third-party browser plugins like TeX The World. Now that [Todd Lehman] has finally cooked up a perl script to embed LaTeX in HTML documents, there's no reason to type e^i*pi + 1 = 0 anymore.
For those not in the know, LaTeX is a document typesetting language that produces beautiful output, usually in PDF form. Unfortunately, when [Tim Berners-Lee] was inventing HTML, he decided to roll his own markup language instead of simply stealing it from [Don Knuth]. Since then, LaTeX aficionados have had to make do with putting TeX snippets into web pages as images or relying on the [; \LaTeX ;] generated from the TeX The World browser extension.
[Todd Lehman]'s perl script generates the PDF of his LaTeX file and pulls out all the weird font and math symbols into PNG files. These PNG files are carefully embedded into the HTML file generated from the normal text pulled from the LaTeX file. It's a ton of work to get these document systems working correctly, but at least there's a reasonable way to put good-looking LaTeX on the web now.
'Below The Rim Of The Bowl': Expert Reveals The Real Reason Your Toilet Is Suddenly Low Flushing—and How To Fix It
The last thing anyone wants is a toilet with a weak flush. The Twin Traps TikTok account (@twinhomeexperts) shared a viral video with a tip that could save you the cost of a new toilet—and the solution is easier than you might think. Since its upload on Aug. 16, the video has racked up more than 406,000 views.
"One of the biggest causes of low flushing toilets is this right here," the video starts, displaying a toilet with a weak flush.
When a toilet is flushed, water jets underneath the rim of the toilet bowl release water to force the bowl's contents down the drain pipe. However, if the jets aren't delivering enough water, that's where the problem lies.
"Here's the problem. It's a mineral deposit, bacteria clogging, low-flushing issue," the narrator says in the video. "But before you go out and spend money on a new toilet, check for this." The camera reveals an unsightly view underneath the rim of the toilet.
"If your jets look like this, [it] is holding a lot of bacteria, mold, and most importantly, restricting flow to provide you that ultimate flush," he explained.
The video wraps up with a promise for part two to show the best way to clean the toilet jets.
What supplies do you need?The second video is the true piece de resistance, featuring the step-by-step guide to cleaning the toilet jets and restoring a powerful flush. Flow is restricted by bacteria, mold, and calcification trapped in the water jets, but a simple cleaning process can restore them. The first step is to gather the necessary supplies.
"Get yourself a cleaning brush like this, latex gloves, duct tape," he said.
Lifting up a bottle of Gillette foam shaving cream, he says "This is an option, but I like using shaving cream because it's foamy and it sticks and has the alcohol content."
"If you have black mold, you're gonna wanna use an antimicrobial Twins rapid mold, but in this case, we're gonna use vinegar. [Also a] blow-off duster, paper towels, a funnel, and a wet-dry vac."
How to clean the water jetsThe video covers each step to fixing a weak-flushing toilet, starting with the cleaning process.
"The first step in the process, you're going to apply the shaving cream underneath the jets. You're going to allow this to really foam up, and stick. I would say about a good hour, let it sit," the narrator explained.
After scrubbing the jets with a brush, flush the toilet once. Then, turn off the water supply and flush the toilet again to clear out any remaining water. As an optional step to ensure all remaining water and debris are removed from the toilet, he also uses a vacuum.
"The purpose of the vacuum is to get the remaining portion of the water out, but more importantly, any debris remaining below the jets. So you don't have to go through this step. I would just maintain and clean underneath the rim of the toilet on a monthly basis, guys," he clarified.
Next, after drying underneath the rim with a paper towel, the camera shows a significantly cleaner set of water jets.
"Now it's time to use the blow-off duster. Insert it inside the fill valve. By doing this, you're gonna clear the waterway, leading the jets into the bowl. Inject inside the fill valve. This is confirmation that all of the jets are completely clear," he said.
The final touch to making your toilet flush like newThe final step, which takes the longest, requires a roll of duct tape and a bottle of vinegar.
"Take the vinegar and you wanna apply it inside of the fill valve. A half a gallon. Once it's applied, now what you're gonna do is sit for two, to four, to five hours—it really depends how bad the toilet is. Once it's done, turn the toilet back on, give it a flush, now you are good to go."
In response to the Daily Dot's request for comment on their viral video, the Twin Traps TikTok account wrote:
@twinhomeexperts How to fix a WEAK flushing toilet! #homeownertips #cleaninghacks #toiletclean ♬ Withoutme伴奏 – 阿吉野马"The overall response is that people want to know how to clean the jets causing low, weak flushing so they don't have to buy a new toilet."
When asked if low-flushing toilets were a common issue they encountered, they added, "Yes, [low-flushing] toilets are a problem. [This] is why I recommend a [two-piece] toilet over a one-piece; it's [less] likely to clog."
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What To Wear Kayaking, According To Instructors And Enthusiasts
Kayaking is rising in popularity across the United States — with good reason. You can experience the calming effects of paddling across a serene lake or an endorphin-pumping thrill ride over whitewater rapids. In addition to excitement, kayaking also offers tremendous physical and mental health benefits, making for a great workout and reconnecting people with nature.
When it comes to apparel in kayaking, though, there's much to consider. Here are some tips on what to wear kayaking, according to longtime instructors and some of the sport's most committed enthusiasts.
In a nutshellThe first thing to consider when it comes to kayaking gear is safety. "Regardless of what you wear for clothing, a personal floatation device (PFD) is essential and something I always wear, even in hot summer weather, to ensure my safety," says Sarah A. Scala, who has more than 35 years of experience in kayaking, and is the owner and CEO of Sarah Scala Consulting, which provides a variety of professional coaching services, sometimes during kayaking excursions.
These highly rated PFDs from Astral, available in men's and women's sizes at REI, should suit most kayakers.
ComfortLook for clothing that's specifically designed for use in the water. "Suitable clothing like wetsuits or drysuits also provides body temperature regulation and hypothermia protection, while specialized footwear offers traction and guards against sharp rocks or other dangerous objects," says Michael Kiel, founder of Boat Planet, a platform that connects boaters with local marine professionals for boat maintenance, repairs and cleaning services. "Additionally, well-fitted gear improves paddling efficiency and prevents chafing or discomfort during lengthy paddles."
You want to closely research the sizes and flexibility levels of wetsuits, which can vary. Purchase one that suits the type of kayaking you'll be doing and protects you from the water temperatures you expect on your excursion.
Check out this highly rated wetsuit from trusted brand O'Neil, available in men's and women's sizes, as a starting point.
HYPERFREAK 4/3+MM CHEST ZIP FULL WETSUIT
WOMEN'S HYPERFREAK 3/2+MM CHEST ZIP FULL WETSUIT Factors to consider when choosing kayaking attire Weather forecast
You'll be outdoors, so pack accordingly, keeping in mind what the temperature will be, the amount of sunshine and other considerations, such as wind. "Looking at the wind forecast is also essential to ensure you have enough layers to keep you warm while on the water," says Scala. "Layers are important to ensure paddlers stay dry during splashes or sweating, as well as possible capsizing."
Scala adds that wearing a hat, whether a sun hat, baseball cap or winter hat, is important to protect yourself from the sun and keep your head dry. Dick's Sporting Goods offers a wide variety of hats good for kayaking.
Water temperatureOne thing you want to avoid when you're kayaking is capsizing. (If you're looking to lessen the possibility with a reliable kayak, check out our Oru Kayak Beach LT review.) Though you want to avoid being submerged in water, there's a good chance you'll interact with plenty of it while kayaking. Before heading out, it's important to know the temperature of both the air and water before heading out so you can prepare accordingly. "Since water usually has a different temperature than air, it is advisable to prioritize this factor to avoid hypothermia," Kiel says.
If you're just hitting the waves and heading right back home, Scala suggests dressing with the water temperature in mind and forgetting about the air temperature altogether, which brings us neatly to the next topic.
Trip lengthIf you're away from home for multiple days with kayaking a highlight of the itinerary, you should pack a few more items. Because the temperatures will vary, you'll need clothes for the time you're on shore and a range of clothes for kayaking to accommodate a range of weather conditions, plus your safety gear.
Clothing materials and featuresTo ensure comfort you want protection from the elements, whether they be blazing sun or an unexpected downpour, the clothing you wear will be key. Jackie McGonigal, a kayaking instructor and director of the Wind & Water Learning Center in Orange Beach, Alabama, says that you should consider "the layers of clothing, the material it's made of, its insulating and wind- or waterproof properties, its visibility on the water and how much it will weigh once it's wet," before purchasing kayaking apparel.
It's also a good idea to look for clothing that can multitask, since you have limited space in a kayak. "Practical features like pockets and quick-drying capabilities are nice-to-have options worth looking out for when shopping for gear, as they can enhance convenience and comfort during your adventure," Kiel says.
How to dress for kayaking in summerSummer is the best time for kayaking, primarily because of the favorable temperatures of both the air and the water. "But, clothing choices can make or break your adventure," warns Samantha Meabon, a travel writer and co-founder of PA on Pause, a web resource focused on travel in the Great Lakes region. "I recommend a pair of light, moisture-wicking shorts, a hooded sun shirt and a hat. Water shoes are also a must! A swim suit can be a great layer, too, but you'll want to have something to cover up and protect from the sun."
Moisture-wicking and quick-drying apparel are usually made from synthetic fibers or merino wool, Kiel says. Rash guards are also a must for him.
It's also important to keep in mind that summer weather differs in various destinations, so again, research expected conditions in the area where you'll be kayaking. "Heat indexes get into the triple digits along the Gulf Coast," McGonigal says. "That's likely not the case along northern coastlines. I dress to be comfortable, air temperature-wise, but also make sure my skin is protected from UV rays."
To do this she typically wears a long-sleeved, quick-dry tech tee over a swimsuit top and a hat with sunglasses. "Despite the temperatures, I always carry a waterproof windbreaker spray top, which is similar to a rain jacket," she adds. "Even in summer, there's the chance of hypothermia if you get rained on and the wind picks up."
How to dress for kayaking in mild conditionsWhen you're out on the water, even if the sun isn't blazing, it's still an important consideration when it comes to the apparel you choose. "The biggest thing to consider when kayaking in mild conditions is the sun," says Meabon. "Even if you're not out on the water all day, the sun can be extremely harsh on spots that don't often get exposed as much. The back of the neck, the tops of your legs and the tops of your feet are especially exposed. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and closed-water shoes can save you from a lot of discomfort."
"I always wear a PFD and a sun hat," says Scala. "Depending on temps I may wear a winter hat instead of a sun hat to keep me warm." When air and water temps are mild, she often wears nylon hiking pants or a neoprene wetsuit — shorty or farmer versions — and neoprene booties.
"In mild weather, layering is key," says Kiel. "To keep moisture from getting on your skin, start with a base layer that wicks away sweat. If warmer clothing is required, then include an insulating piece like fleece as the midlayer." For protection against splashes and wind, he continues, you will need a breathable paddling jacket that serves as both a waterproof and windproof outer layer. On the bottom, wear quick-drying pants or paddling shorts. He also seconds the employment of neoprene booties (or water shoes), hats and PFDs.
How to dress for kayaking in cool or cold waterWhen summer ends, you don't have to stow your kayak until the weather warms up again. Depending on where you live, you can kayak when the water temperature is either cool or cold. But you'll need to take additional precautions with your apparel to avoid hypothermia. "Keeping warm is critical because you lose body heat at a much higher rate in cold water," says Chris Nicol, a kayaking instructor and boathouse manager at Shoreline Lake in Mountain View, California. "In general, you should wear water booties, a wetsuit with no sleeves for ease of paddling and gloves."
According to the National Center for Cold Water Safety, water that is 70 degrees Fahrenheit or below is considered cold. McGonigal says the organization is an excellent resource for guidelines on cold water safety, as is the U.S. Coast Guard. When McGonigal goes cold-water kayaking, she wears a full-body 3/2mm wetsuit with a "quick-dry T-shirt over it, then a windproof/waterproof spray top over that." She tops it all off with a U.S. Coast Guard Type III PFD. "I also wear an insulating wool hat and, when it's sunny out, sunglasses," she says.
For Kiel, a wetsuit is a cool weather must-have for body heat retention. "A wetsuit traps water against the skin and warms it up, while a drysuit keeps you utterly dry," he says. REI has a widely appreciated drysuit from Kokatat, the Meridian, available in men's and women's sizes.
Hydrus 3L Meridian Drysuit - Men's
Meridian GORE-TEX Pro Drysuit - Women's
Underneath a drysuit, you can layer thermal clothes for additional warmth. You can also prevent extremities from getting cold by wearing neoprene gloves and booties. "Add a thermal cap or neoprene hood to preserve head warmth," says Kiel. "Wrap up with a windproof and waterproof outer cover, too, in case of bad weather."
Another recommendation for kayaking in cold water is to wear pogies, which are gloves that attach to the kayak paddle. "These are waterproof and allow full use of my hands and keep them warm," Scala says. "When it's very cold, I also wear a merino wool liner glove inside the pogies."
What to wear for nighttime kayakingFor a little added layer of thrill — and to avoid traffic, both on the way to your chosen site and in the water — try nighttime kayaking. But you'll need to pay some added attention to safety. How can you pull this off in the apparel category?
"Paddling at night requires warmer clothing than you would typically wear during the day because it's cooler outside," says Scala. "It's also important to remember that bugs and mosquitoes are often out at night, so having layers that cover the skin is helpful."
Just like when you were a kid playing around your neighborhood at night, Scala says it's also smart to wear brighter colors to be visible. "Having appropriate lighting for yourself and your boat is also required by the U.S. Coast Guard," she adds.
What to wear for whitewater kayakingWhitewater kayaking requires the ability to navigate quickly changing conditions in fast-moving rapids and streams. Whitewater kayaks are typically shorter in length and have other features that make them more agile than models designed for flatwater kayaking. If you're interested in trying a fast-paced adventure, first do some research on the best kayak for whitewater adventures. The first model you should consider is the Code, by manufacturer Dagger. Reviewers on the web say it's great for beginners, but one size does not fit all, so make sure you research product dimensions, durability and other details.
Code MD Creek Whitewater Kayak
Like any type of kayaking, though, whitewater kayaking apparel choices depend on the location and temperatures of the air and particularly the water, since you'll definitely be interacting with it. "Most whitewater kayakers wear a wetsuit or drysuit to ensure they stay warm," says Scala. "Many also wear neoprene gloves and a neoprene cap under the helmet for safety. Most wear neoprene booties or water sandals, depending on temps."
"I would recommend a dry top that will keep you dry when kayaking," adds Nicol. "They have latex wrist and neck gaskets with neoprene over the cuffs. This seal prevents water intrusion."
How to layer with a wetsuit or drysuitOur experts advise kayakers to wear wetsuits or drysuits while engaged in the sport, particularly when rowing in water conditions that are not calm. They can be challenging to put on, though, and there's the question of what, if anything else, to wear on top of them.
"With a wetsuit, wearing a bathing suit underneath is often all that's needed, or synthetic underwear," says Scala. "When wearing a wetsuit, it's smart to wear synthetic or merino wool layers like a thermal top and bottoms." She adds that some people also wear socks that are kept dry if their suit includes waterproof booties, while many also wear neoprene booties.
Depending on the conditions, though, all that might be overkill. "For a wetsuit, there is no need to wear clothing underneath," says Nicol. "If you feel the need to wear something under a wetsuit, keep that to a minimum, like a swimsuit or swim trunks, so the wetsuit can function well."
The thin layer of water between the wetsuit and your skin keeps you warm, Nicol says, so wearing more clothes might make you overheat while paddling, which you should avoid. "First, gauge the temperature of the destination," Nicol says. "If the conditions are cold, you may want to opt for a drysuit instead. In that case, you can wear layers under your drysuit."
"In a drysuit, you'd need to wear base and midlayers," says McGonigal. "The drysuit just keeps you dry, if fitted properly, it doesn't insulate you all that well when you capsize."
Choosing what to wear on your feet is also dependent upon the type of kayaking you'll be doing and what the environment will be like. In warmer temperatures, Scala says kayakers typically wear sandals if the water won't be intense, but neoprene booties are a must in colder temps.
Your feet need protecting just as much as the rest of your body, so keep that in mind, too, particularly if you're putting a capital "A" in your kayaking adventure. "Footwear should cover your toes and have a sturdy, hard sole," says McGonigal. "This protects your feet when you're at a launch and landing site or when you have to wade shallows or portage."
Strong and durable footwear also helps protect the ball of your foot for bracing against footpegs in a kayak, adds McGonigal. She also advises avoiding any loops or long laces that could get snagged or caught on your kayak in the event of a capsize.
"The two most important things to consider when choosing kayaking footwear are the fit and the cover of the top of your foot," says Meabon. "If you fall in the water and your shoes slide off, they cannot protect you from sharp rocks or other water hazards."
Don't forget your feet can get sunburned, too, even out in the water. Meabon prefers enclosed water shoes to prevent this from occurring. The Astral Hiyak water shoe is one boot that's highly rated by kayakers on the web, who say it's not only comfortable and dependable, but also versatile, as it can be worn while engaged in other boating activities.
The Astral Hiyak water shoe Clothing to avoid for kayaking
You're now well-versed in what to wear while kayaking, but here are some items you definitely should not wear when hitting the water in a kayak. "Cotton clothing should not be worn because it holds water and becomes heavy when wet, losing its insulating properties and making it difficult to stay warm," warns Kiel. "Instead, choose synthetic wool fabrics that are designed specifically for wicking away moisture from skin surfaces. They dry quickly."
McGonigal also preaches against wearing cotton clothing while kayaking. "Cotton is a horrible insulator once it gets wet, and it gets extremely heavy when wet," she says. "There's an expression in the outdoor world that 'cotton kills.'"
Another no-no when kayaking, Kiel says, is loose-fitting outfits, since they may snag on equipment and can restrain movements.
Tips for staying comfortable and safeIf you have the space in your pack, Scala suggests you bring an extra layer of clothing with you on your kayaking trip. You've looked at the forecast, sure, but the weather can change — and quickly. If it gets cooler out, you can always just add some more clothes to keep you warm.
In addition, be sure to keep safety top of mind when preparing for an excursion. All of our experts emphasize the need for a PFD, one that fits snugly and is Coast Guard-approved.
Finally, it's always smart to make sure you're prepared in case of an emergency. "I recommend always paddling with someone else to ensure safety," Scala says, "in addition to carrying a first aid kit and a way to communicate with people on land, whether that's a mobile phone, VHF marine radio or satellite messenger."
The AP Buyline roundupKayaking can be exhilarating, but the right gear and apparel is essential for a fun and safe experience. With greater peace of mind you'll enjoy kayaking that much more, so heed the advice of our expert teachers and enthusiasts. "Proper kayaking attire ensures comfort and safety by keeping you dry, warm and free to maneuver efficiently, so be sure to choose your kayaking gear wisely," says Kiel.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) Can I wear a swimsuit for kayaking?Yes, many folks wear a bathing suit while kayaking, but only if the water temperature is well above 70 degrees Fahrenheit and the air temperature is hot. In addition, wear appropriate footwear in addition to a hat and sunscreen to protect the skin from burns. Remember: You can still get cool anytime while kayaking, so we advise you pack another layer in case you need it.
Do I need a wetsuit or drysuit for kayaking?Depending on the conditions, the use of a wetsuit or drysuit helps to ensure both comfort and safety. "Staying warm when wet is essential for safe adventures on the water," Scala says. "Except for the warm summer season, a wetsuit is suggested. For colder temps and winter paddling, a drysuit or wetsuit is often required."
What should I wear for a multiday kayaking trip?If you're going kayaking repeatedly across a number of days, you should pack additional clothing to ensure you're prepared for a variety of temperatures and conditions. But for lighter packing, we recommend that you wear some of the items multiple times.
"For multiday kayak trips I wear the same items as suggested earlier, in addition to another set of clothes," says Scala. "Wet gear can be hung to dry at the end of each day, and having a rotation of clothes ensures you will be warm and dry."
"You only have so much space in your kayak and you don't want to paddle around for days with extra weight," adds McGonigal. "I usually have the gear and clothing on my body and an extra set of everything in my kayak hatches. You can shower and wash your clothes and gear when you get home!"
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