text
stringlengths 199
648k
| id
stringlengths 47
47
| dump
stringclasses 1
value | url
stringlengths 14
419
| file_path
stringlengths 139
140
| language
stringclasses 1
value | language_score
float64 0.65
1
| token_count
int64 50
235k
| score
float64 2.52
5.34
| int_score
int64 3
5
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Microsoft Research has just released its
Project Tuva (click).What is the project? It brings you all seven Messenger Lectures that Richard Feynman gave at Cornell in 1964. Firefox or Internet Explorer are needed. Silverlight (Microsoft Flash Replacement) will install automatically if you don't have it yet: the evaluations of this system seem excellent so far.
The video player includes the complete lectures as subtitles and allows you to make notes, too. Relevant extra pictures, texts, and links appear on the right side and additional notes will be added in a few months.
In the introduction, Bill Gates says that he considers these lectures to be best ever. He has hoped to bring them to the public for 20 years. Now, two decades and 40 billion U.S. dollars later, he has realized his dream. :-)
The seven parts discuss
- Law of gravitation: an example of a physical law
(includes a funny provost's introduction)
- The relation of mathematics and physics
- The great conservation principles
(a clever mother, unlike most, counts the blocks)
- Symmetry in physical law
(includes special relativity)
- The distinction of past and future
- Probability and uncertainty: the quantum mechanical view of Nature
- Seeking new laws
Gates thinks that the cool Feynman lectures are just a tip of a future iceberg.
Thank you, Bill Gates!
Hat tip: Symmetry Magazine (via Facebook)
Bill Gates and hurricanes
Because it has already happened anyway, the comment section is open to people's voices about the new patent by Bill Gates et al. (see also Google News) to suppress hurricanes by pumping cold water from the depths of the oceans to the surface.
I would actually guess it is feasible but you may have done more careful calculations than my estimates.
Palaeocene-Eocene thermal maximum
55 million years ago, an unknown source added a lot of carbon to the atmosphere. At the same moment, the temperatures rose by 5-9 °C within a few millenia. Except that Zeebe, Zachos, and Dickens (Daily Tech, Google News) claim in Nature Geoscience that the greenhouse effect couldn't have been sufficient for this change, and most of the change had to be caused by another, so far unknown mechanism. The authors determine that the IPCC models can't work as believed by some scientists and the errors of the IPCC predictions are of order 100%.
|
<urn:uuid:a3762b92-2f17-496c-8e84-f439a1f695f6>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://motls.blogspot.com/2009/07/bill-gates-introduces-richard-feynman.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783393332.57/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154953-00045-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.932386
| 506
| 2.96875
| 3
|
LESSON: Choosing a Search Site (est. Time 45 min.)
Students work in groups to explore some popular search sites designed for children. Using the checklist found on their Check Out Search Sites Student Handout, they identify and record the features offered by one of the sites, then compare and contrast these with other sites. Students then use the Search Site Features Student Handout to identify the keywords in a search question, search several children’s search sites, and come up with a list of features for a good search site.
|
<urn:uuid:6d45668c-6aff-4973-8637-d9c9f7ddc1d5>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
https://sites.google.com/site/mdirssdigitalliteracy/grade-4/research-information-literacy/choosing-a-search-site
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783395613.65/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154955-00140-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.877798
| 108
| 3.484375
| 3
|
From Our 2007 Archives
Ultrasound Beats Blood Test for Gauging Ovarian Cancers: Study
Latest MedicineNet News
THURSDAY, Nov. 15 (HealthDay News) -- Ultrasound exams are better than blood tests at identifying whether ovarian tumors are benign or malignant, a team of international researchers reports.
Ultrasound correctly identified 93 percent of tumors as benign or cancerous, while the blood test was correct 83 percent of the time.
Results of the study, by the International Ovarian Tumor Analysis collaboration group (IOTA), were published online Nov. 13 in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.
"To my knowledge, the IOTA study is the first study that clearly demonstrated that in experienced hands, ultrasound is significantly better than blood tests,'" said study leader Dr. Dirk Timmerman, a researcher at Katholieke Universiteit Leuven in Belgium.
An estimated 22,430 new cases of ovarian cancer are expected to be diagnosed in 2007 in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society, with about 15,280 deaths. The disease typically strikes women over age 55. Symptoms include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, or urinary symptoms such as a frequent need to urinate.
Because the symptoms are often similar to less serious conditions, only about 20 percent of ovarian cancers are found at an early stage, the cancer society estimates. This makes the quest for the best techniques to detect the cancer early even more important.
For the IOTA study, Timmerman and his colleagues compared ultrasound with blood tests to decide if the ovarian masses discovered in 1,066 women were benign or malignant.
Experts examined patterns in ultrasound images, and then compared those results with blood tests that detect an elevated level of the protein CA-125, considered an indicator of whether an ovarian tumor is cancerous or benign.
The ultrasound exams, including transvaginal gray-scale and color Doppler ultrasound exams, were given within 120 days of surgery to remove the tumors. Before surgery, 809 of the women gave blood, and the samples were analyzed later for CA-125 levels.
When the results from both methods were compared with the findings at surgery, the researchers found that ultrasound correctly classified 93 percent of tumors as cancerous or not, while the blood test was correct in only 83 percent of cases.
"The IOTA study not only demonstrated that ultrasound is better than blood tests but also that the blood tests do not give additional benefit in mathematical models developed to distinguish between benign and malignant masses," Timmerman said.
Timmerman emphasized that the study only looked at the best method to decide if a tumor was cancerous after the mass had already been discovered. "Of course, this is different from screening," he said. "In screening studies, a healthy population is screened for a specific disease, for example, ovarian cancer. In that setting, a blood test might prove to be useful in the future." He noted that two large studies exploring that issue are expected to conclude in about five years.
Dr. Robert Morgan, co-director of the gynecologic oncology/peritoneal malignancy program at the City of Hope Cancer Center in Duarte, Calif., said the study results confirm what doctors have known for a long time. "CA-125 is only elevated in about 50 percent of early stage ovarian cancer, and the data in this paper confirms that," he said.
The study's bottom line: Most of these cancers are being picked up with ultrasound, not the blood test, Morgan said. "And, most of the time, when [the ultrasound] says it's not malignant, it's not," he said.
''C-125 tests are not cheap and, particularly when you do them in a huge number of patients, the costs add up. And, apparently, they don't seem to be adding anything to the diagnostic accuracy," he added.
Sherry Salway Black, executive director of the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance, called the new study results exciting. "It gives more information, more evidence that a transvaginal ultrasound can be effective under these circumstances."
Still, she said, the blood test might prove to have some benefit. "It may not be the best stand-alone diagnostic tool. This [study] appears to say transvaginal ultrasound is definitely better." But the study authors did find that CA-125 levels in women found to have cancer were higher for postmenopausal women than premenopausal women, for instance. And such details, Black said, might prove valuable.
Meanwhile, a study from Boston's Brigham and Women's Hospital has found that regular consumption of foods containing the flavonoid kaempferol, including nonherbal tea and broccoli, was associated with a reduced risk of ovarian cancer. The study, funded by the National Cancer Institute and published in the Nov. 15 issue of the International Journal of Cancer, also found a decreased risk in women who consumed large amounts of the flavonoid luteolin, found in carrots, peppers and cabbage.
"This is good news, because there are few lifestyle factors known to reduce a woman's risk of ovarian cancer," first author Margaret Gates, a research fellow at the hospital, said in a prepared statement. "Although additional research is needed, these findings suggest that consuming a diet rich in flavonoids may be protective."
"Other flavonoid-rich foods, such as onions, beans and kale, may also decrease ovarian cancer risk, but the number of women who frequently consumed these foods was not large enough to clearly evaluate these associations. More research is needed," concluded Gates, who is also a research fellow at the Harvard School of Public Health.
SOURCES: Dirk Timmerman, M.D., Ph.D., researcher, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium; Robert Morgan, M.D., co-director, gynecologic oncology/peritoneal malignancy program, City of Hope Cancer Center, Duarte, Calif.; Sherry Salway Black, executive director, Ovarian Cancer National Alliance, Washington, D.C.; Nov. 13, 2007, Journal of the National Cancer Institute, online; Nov. 13, 2007, news release, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston
Copyright © 2007 ScoutNews, LLC. All rights reserved.
|
<urn:uuid:67e9fb5d-f5e3-4c47-b9ce-d9f8782a7b55>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=85275
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783400031.51/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624155000-00162-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.950609
| 1,317
| 2.859375
| 3
|
Written and Researched by : Tina Easley and Otto Morton (my Dad)
Thank you ! Daddy
Clay County, first called Clayton County, was formed in 1873 with Corning as the county seat. It was formed from parts of Greene and Randolph Counties with Western Clay County being formed from Randolph County and Eastern Clay County being formed from Greene County.
Map Of Greene County in 1854
( Notice Chalk Bluff at the very top.)
Townships in Greene in 1854
Chalk Bluff , Pleasant View , Oak Bluff , Gainesville , Walcott , Old Deserted ?? Villiage , Greensboro , Lorado , Crowleys , Newport, Oak Ridge
This is information that I have been researching what I call cross over counties located around or formed from Greene County or Greene County was formed from part of the other surrounding counties . It makes researching part of our family even more of a challenge.
Example : In 1870 census you find your family in Greene but in 1880 or 1900 they are in Clay County . But if you had land deeds they were in the same place at the same years (listed above) you would need to start searching in Clay County and pay close attention to the county formation years were records could cross over to the new county. The part of Greene County that was no longer Greene but now Clay County records. Sometimes when you think you might of hit a dead end you might want to try this it might prove to be worthwhile .
Mine and Daddy's Research Trip
Below is pictures from our research trip . We went and visted Scatterville and Chalk Bluff and was informed by a fellow that stopped and talked to us about another cemetery . Mobley Plantation and Mobley Cemetery with the slaves buried in the family cemetery . Scatterville and The Mobley Cemetery were not to far from the county line .
Double Click the Title to see photo's
Scatterville Area Map 1853
Mobley Plantation and Cemetery
|
<urn:uuid:7098f063-755c-4635-b77a-056b813fc5b9>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.usgennet.org/usa/ar/county/greene/clayborder.htm
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783395166.84/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154955-00140-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.966444
| 404
| 2.96875
| 3
|
Title Your Columns
When you have a title at the top of a column of data, you can use that title in formulas instead of the cell reference.
For example, let’s suppose that you have two columns labeled “Original Price” and “Discount”. Now let’s say you want to create a third column that calculates the sale price of the items (Original Price – Discount).
Your formula for the third column might look something like this:
=A2 – B2
Not bad, but it’s certainly not very meaningful, unless you take the time to figure out what’s in columns A and B.
Wouldn’t this be a bit better?
=Original Price – Discount
The good news is that you don’t have to do anything special. Once you’ve put the column titles in, Excel can figure out that the data in the column goes with the title. Cool!
If you find that Excel is giving you the old #NAME error, then you will have to make one change to the options set in your program. To make the change go to the Tools menu, Options choice, Calculations tab.
Make sure that the “Accept labels in formulas” option is checked and click OK.
There is one piece of bad news with this little Excel gem. This only seems to work within the same worksheet. In other words, you can’t use the formula on a different worksheet from where the Original Price and Discount data is located.
Want to do the same thing on other worksheets in the workbook? Would it be worth a few seconds to name the data so you could use meaningful formulas anywhere in the workbook? Less tracking of cell references to figure out what each cell represents could make life easier.
Want to know more about naming Excel ranges? Tomorrow’s MS Office tip to continue our discussion on the Excel Name Game. Tune in!
|
<urn:uuid:5af511b1-a26b-4abf-a997-bb660c34a7da>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.worldstart.com/title-your-columns/print/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783395039.24/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154955-00165-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.890226
| 411
| 2.96875
| 3
|
Cassini's prying infrared vision allows details of Saturn's storm-ridden hydrogen atmosphere to be revealed as never before.
North of the dark south polar region is what may be a "polygonal wave" structure developing in the atmosphere. Such a wave was seen in the northern polar region in images from NASA's Voyager spacecraft and had a hexagon shape that surrounded the pole.
This view has been magnified and enhanced to improve contrast in the visible features. The image was taken using a compression scheme that decreases image file size for storage onboard the spacecraft, and thus the image appears slightly blocky, or "pixelated" following enhancement.
The image was taken with the Cassini spacecraft wide-angle camera on July 31, 2005, through a filter sensitive to wavelengths of infrared light centered at 752 nanometers at a distance of approximately 1.4 million kilometers (900,000 miles) from Saturn and at a Sun-Saturn-spacecraft, or phase, angle of 36 degrees. Resolution in the original image was 78 kilometers (48 miles) per pixel.
The Cassini-Huygens mission is a cooperative project of NASA, the European Space Agency and the Italian Space Agency. The Jet Propulsion Laboratory, a division of the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, manages the mission for NASA's Science Mission Directorate, Washington, D.C. The Cassini orbiter and its two onboard cameras were designed, developed and assembled at JPL. The imaging team is based at the Space Science Institute, Boulder, Colo.
For more information about the Cassini-Huygens mission visit http://saturn.jpl.nasa.gov. For additional images visit the Cassini imaging team homepage http://ciclops.org.
|
<urn:uuid:9536040e-d8ea-4488-af60-9f8db20d0372>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA07593
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783398869.97/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154958-00190-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.916782
| 359
| 3.78125
| 4
|
Cathedrals of Florence and Milan
Friday, 13th January 2006 by James Turnbull
The Cathedral (Duomo) of Florence is officially called Santa Maria del Fiore and is the end result of years of work spanning various architectural styles. The original building was started by a sculptor in 1296, then Filippo Brunelleschi added the distinctive dome between 1420 and 1436 and finally the modern facade was added between 1867 and 1887. It is apparently the 3rd largest church in the world.
Duomo di Milano is the largest gothic cathedral in the world, a bit of a cheat as it comes somewhere nearer seventh in the list of largest churches in the world. Still, on full zoom it is pretty huge and has the added sightseeing bonus of the adjacent ‘Piazza Del Duomo’ (I think I can see tourists?) and the ‘Galleria Vittorio Emanuele’, a covered street just to the north (it looks like a dark cross).
|
<urn:uuid:e7aa8b79-e5bc-4808-b799-6fef41eb6ffb>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://googlesightseeing.com/2006/01/cathedrals-of-florence-and-milan/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783396538.42/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154956-00142-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.966156
| 211
| 2.546875
| 3
|
Claiming to be the first comprehensive Canadian examination of the impacts of industrial animal agriculture, the study aims to disclose the hidden costs of the sector for Canadian tax-payers, and to influence policy-making with a list of recommendations.
“The costs of this industrial system are substantial and growing and, like farm animals, they remain largely hidden. The result is a misleading picture of the true costs associated with the production and consumption of intensively produced meat, dairy and eggs. What consumers don’t pay for upfront, will be paid for later in terms of escalating health care costs, environmental remediation, and the cost of depleted water and energy resources.
“This food system was built on the false premise that inexpensive feed, cheap energy and free and abundant water would be available forever, but we now know these resources are limited and need to be conserved for ourselves and for future generations. (...) The ramifications are serious and deserve the attention of all levels of government in Canada. Governments need to act now to address the negative impacts of industrial animal agriculture through meaningful and forward thinking policy changes. The longer we wait, the more these problems will grow, and the harder it will become to find effective and sustainable solutions,” WSPCA said.
As part of the recommendations listed in the report, authors suggested improving food labelling to include the type of farming used to produce meat so consumers can make informed choices, prohibiting painful mutilations on animals without anaesthetic, and redirecting subsidies towards family farmers and more sustainable animal agriculture.
The report warned against antimicrobial resistance caused by the use of antibiotics as growth promoters on farms, and urged Canada to follow the EU’s example by banning it, a move that WSPCA said has been backed by the Canadian Medical Association and the American Medical Association. “The economic benefits farmers receive from using antibiotics are not always sufficient to offset the additional cost of the drugs. Society pays a hefty price too as the cost of drugs would nearly triple if resistance rises to endemic levels. Considering the length of time needed to develop new antibiotics, the pursuit of ‘cheap’ food, is not really worth the risk that life-saving antibiotics may fail,” it said.
Among other health concerns, the report pointed out the increase in food-borne illnesses in the past few years, which it linked to “the crowded and unsanitary conditions that many animals are raised in”, and the spread of animal viruses to humans. “Intensive livestock operations (ILOs) facilitate large-scale viral incubation and genetic reassortment that may lead to new varieties of influenza and initiate human flu pandemics,” one of the authors said.
The report also stressed the risk presented by the over-application of non-treated livestock waste as fertiliser, which it blamed for the death of seven people and infection of 2,300 in a small Ontario town in 2000 when their drinking water was contaminated with E.coli. “The increasing number and expansion of ILOs in close proximity to each other means that much of the manure produced needs to be transported longer distances for disposal. To cut down on transport costs, manure is often over-applied in local areas or illegally dumped in ditches and streams,” it said.
WSPCA noted the environmental impact of livestock farming, saying that livestock production occupies one-third of the earth’s arable land, “largely because of the land needed to grow animal feed”. It added that if two-thirds of the global population started eating meat at the Canadian rate (102 kg per capita), world meat consumption would nearly triple from current levels, and farnmland would need to more than double. “This necessarily implies that Canadian consumption levels are too high, and must come down,” the organisation added.
Finally, the organisation pointed out animal welfare issues, encouraging Canada to follow Europe and America’s examples by phasing out sow stalls, as well as veal crates and battery cages. It also suggested orientating genetic selection towards better welfare rather than better efficiency or leanness.
|
<urn:uuid:2523ca0f-2f7d-451b-a0d7-617e776bcc79>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.globalmeatnews.com/Livestock/Report-shows-impact-of-intensive-livestock-farming-in-Canada
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783395546.12/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154955-00183-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.953817
| 844
| 2.828125
| 3
|
Will the much needed breakthrough battery please stand up?
At a local event surrounding the press tour of the Ford Focus plug-in, one speaker tried to simplify the complex chemistry and physics of battery power by saying you take anything from the left of the Periodic Table and mix it with something from the right side and you create something that wants to explode. Batteries slow this process to where we can tap this explosive energy over time.
Given the right ambient conditions and flaws, the lead-acid batteries in our cars as well as the lithium-ion batteries in Dreamliners can overheat, cause fires or even explode.
A just posted AP story explains this is the main reason our cities aren’t filled with electric cars right now – it is the batteries that are holding us back. The lithium-ion battery is the latest level of battery technology and it has been around for nearly 25 years.
Many people look to the leading authority on battery technology John Goodenough, the man that essentially made first commercial lithium-ion batteries possible back in 1991. He will be honored with the National Medal of Science at the White House next month at the age of 90.
Currently the engineering professor at the University of Texas at Austin, Goodenough told the AP, "I'm working on it. I'm optimistic in a sense that I'm willing to keep working on it. I think we can do some interesting things."
|
<urn:uuid:9cf5ccea-794c-4eaa-af30-f285a90fcdf3>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.torquenews.com/397/will-much-needed-breakthrough-battery-please-stand
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783402746.23/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624155002-00154-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.950614
| 287
| 2.96875
| 3
|
- (uncountable) Geography is how a place is on a map. It is about where things like rivers, mountains, cities, and countries are.
- I know the geography of the area because I once lived their.
- (uncountable) The study of maps and places.
- Our geography was pretty easy.
|
<urn:uuid:040a2b80-dc38-4c67-b244-04e0ab588a8e>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
https://simple.wiktionary.org/wiki/geography
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783399106.96/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154959-00047-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.923193
| 70
| 2.59375
| 3
|
TEL AVIV, Israel — Surgery can be a real bear.
In Israel, a 19-year-old Syria brown bear named Mango underwent surgery Wednesday to repair a herniated disc, said Sagit Horowitz, a spokeswoman for the Ramat Gan Zoological Center near Tel Aviv.
Zoologists first noticed Mango had a problem when he started to show signs of paralysis in his hind legs in the last few weeks, said Dr. Merav Shamir, who led the surgery on the furry patient.
“It started acutely,” she said. “He wasn’t able to move his right hind limb and it progressively deteriorated over the following 48 hours to become completely paralyzed on the hind limbs.”
Horowitz said veterinarians discovered the 250-kilogram (550-pound) bear had the injured disc during an X-ray taken after noticing his worsening paralysis. That disc compressed Mango’s spinal cord and caused the paralysis he had been suffering through, Shamir said.
Veterinarians shaved parts of the bear’s furry back to prepare him for surgery Wednesday, as well as intubated him. They propped his head up on a pillow wrapped in a trash bag and put an IV through his snout. They also wrapped a blood-pressure cuff around his right paw.
Such unique procedures aren’t uncommon at the Ramat Gan Zoological Center, the premier zoo of Israel. Last year, veterinarians there used acupuncture to cure the chronic ear infection of a 14-year-old Sumatran tiger named Pedang.
Shamir said other bears with a similar disc problem like Mango had been euthanized and that the surgery he underwent was novel for bears — though often performed on small dogs.
“I’m nervous now — I’ll be happier in a few hours,” Shamir said before the hourslong surgery began. “I wish him luck.”
Veterinarians will know in the coming weeks whether Mango makes a full recovery.
The Ramat Gan Wildlife Hospital treats around 2,000 animals annually, and one day earlier this year had around 170 of them in hospitalization. “If it’s wild we accept it. Doesn’t matter if it’s a snake or a weasel, a deer or a hyena,” the staffer who manages the day-to-day operations in the hospital told The Times of Israel last year.
The hospital is equipped with X-ray machines, operating rooms and supplies for most kinds of animals. It is funded by public donations, private foundations and the Ramat Gan safari zoo in whose premises it is located. Four veterinarians are employed, receiving large animals almost every day from nature protection personnel and smaller ones from caring citizens.
Earlier this year, keepers were concerned that Maya the rhino’s long and awkwardly downward pointing horn was stopping her from chomping down her daily diet. The horn, which extended beyond end of her nose, prevented Maya from getting close enough to the ground to eat properly. As a result, the decision was taken to perform some rhino rhinoplasty and saw off half of Maya’s horn.
|
<urn:uuid:1d9fb3ce-6bb9-4eb3-8d65-73458984df90>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.timesofisrael.com/mango-the-bear-has-disc-fixed/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783393533.44/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154953-00007-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.968788
| 670
| 2.53125
| 3
|
Chadron State College employees, students and guest users are required to comply with federal copyright laws, and with college policies and procedures designed to implement those laws. Three federal acts form the basis for copyright compliance. They are, in order of enactment, the Copyright Act of 1976 and the Fair Use Guidelines, the Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 1998, and the Technology, Education and Copyright Harmonization Act of 2002.
The Fair Use Guidelines evolved from the Copyright Act of 1976 and were developed for the educational community. Although a set of formal and quantifiable standards have emerged from court decisions and other tests of Fair Use, just two tests are needed to determine compliance, Brevity and Spontaneity. Small portions of entire works may be used and then only a minimal number of times for a small number of classes and students.
The DMCA of 1998 is the U.S.'s answer to a perceived need for laws regulating international intellectual property, especially ideas committed to digital media for entertainment. DMCA is highly-prescriptive and restrictive and does not incorporate Fair Use provisions for education. However, it has far-reaching implications for colleges. File sharing of copyrighted audio, video or other mediated materials is prohibited.
The TEACH Act, is aptly described in its title. It is intended to bring the technical provisions of DMCA into harmony with the Fair Use Guidelines for education, more specifically for online and other mediated instruction. Although TEACH's mediated instructional Fair Use Guidelines are expressed using traditional classroom terminology, its language is fairly clear and the specifics are clearly outlined.
View the entire TEACH Act.
The faculty and staff of Chadron State College are required to know the copyright law, to remain abreast of new developments in the law and to comply with the law as follows:
Fair Use Guidelines will determine the selection and use of copyrighted materials for class instruction.
Copyrighted materials used according to Fair Use principles will be removed from electronic storage upon conclusion of the course.
Fair Use may be applied to any digitized, copyrighted materials, even those print or analog works communicated in digital format.
Works specifically allowed under TEACH include performances of non-dramatic literary works, performances of non-dramatic musical works, and reasonable and limited segments of dramatic and audio visual works.
Written notice of institutional, instructor, and student obligations under the TEACH Act must be supplied to class members.
As much as is technically feasible, transmission of copyrighted materials is limited to members of the class.
Archived materials are to be used only for immediate future offerings of the class.
Policies and technical measures should provide assurance that digital codes or embedded management systems are not modified, i.e. no tampering with producers' security.
The college is required to provide written evidence of copyright compliance intent.
All copyright compliance practices are to be expressed as institutional policy.
Copyright resources are available from the Department of Information Technology web site, http://www.csc.edu/technology/policy-acceptance.csc. Review of the following resource, by employees and students, is strongly encouraged to ensure compliance.
CSC Procedure for Action on Possible Infringement of Intellectual Property Rights (DMCA).
CSC Guidelines for Copyright and Higher Education (Fair Use and TEACH).
CSC Written Notice of Institutional, Instructor, and Student Obligations under the TEACH Act.
Effective: August 01, 2003
Updated: August 25, 2009
Copyright © Chadron State College. All Rights Reserved.
Member, Nebraska State College System • Employment Opportunities • Equal Opportunity Employer • Accreditation Information • Website Feedback
1000 Main Street, Chadron, NE 69337 • 1-800-CHADRON
|
<urn:uuid:f852cc30-e463-4832-90d3-cfeeeacf2903>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://csc.edu/technology/policy-copyright.csc
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397864.87/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00059-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.914894
| 757
| 3.03125
| 3
|
A native plant is, quite simply, a plant native
to the area in which it is planted. This word is used quite a lot in habitat restoration
and other related fields. Native plants are useful when one wants to restore an area to its natural state, and are also excellent in landscapes because they require little care and shelter wildlife. However, defining which plants are 'native' can be difficult.
You can't always figure out which plants are native by going out to a 'natural' site and looking at what's growing there. Often, many of the plants in nature are introduced, weedy plants which don't really belong there and have been brought in from other areas. These are not considered natives and are often pests, crowding out the true natives. In America, a native plant is generally considered to be one which was there before the Europeans colonized the continent. This ignores the fact that Native Americans moved plants around too, but it is impossible to tell what they moved anyway. In other parts of the world it is even more complicated
Another issue is the scale of 'nativeness'. Often in California, for instance, a native plant is just considered to be a plant from California. This gets silly because California is a huge place. A cactus is not native to the redwood forest, nor is a palm tree native to the High Sierras. If you plant them in these places, they will probably die. However, it is often impossible to tell exactly what was growing at a site 400 years ago. Some areas are extremely variable on a small scale due to variations in moisture, temperature, and elevation, especially in mountainous areas.
In general, the concept of native plants is complicated. However, native plants are a useful and often neglected addition to landscapes, and the confusion shouldnt discourage one from using these plants.
|
<urn:uuid:91282f7c-a1d7-454e-ab88-359a6789fad6>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://everything2.com/title/native+plant
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397795.31/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00120-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.974863
| 373
| 3.5625
| 4
|
A database is a collection of information that is organized so that it can easily be accessed, managed, and updated. In one view, databases can be classified according to types of content: bibliographic, full-text, numeric, and images.
In computing, databases are sometimes classified according to their organizational approach. The most prevalent approach is the relational database, a tabular database in which data is defined so that it can be reorganized and accessed in a number of different ways. A distributed database is one that can be dispersed or replicated among different points in a network. An object-oriented programming database is one that is congruent with the data defined in object classes and subclasses.
Computer databases typically contain aggregations of data records or files, such as sales transactions, product catalogs and inventories, and customer profiles. Typically, a database manager provides users the capabilities of controlling read/write access, specifying report generation, and analyzing usage. Databases and database managers are prevalent in large mainframe systems, but are also present in smaller distributed workstation and mid-range systems such as the AS/400 and on personal computers. SQL (Structured Query Language) is a standard language for making interactive queries from and updating a database such as IBM's DB2, Microsoft's SQL Server, and database products from Oracle, Sybase, and Computer Associates.
Expert Adrian Lane explains what database security tools are and how they work.
What are the top database security tools for enterprises?
|
<urn:uuid:e2307e8a-5913-4212-8c46-3f5914c2268f>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://searchsqlserver.techtarget.com/definition/database
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783396147.66/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154956-00030-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.911847
| 303
| 3.40625
| 3
|
Like a pin on your lapel or a logo on your T-shirt, bumper stickers are a way of expressing your identity. Read on to discover how the bumper-sticker trend began — and how it’s evolved over the years.
The birth of the bumper sticker
When the Ford Model A was introduced in 1927, it featured prominent front and rear bumpers. Car owners immediately thought, “I must use this surface to express my opinions and preferences!” And lo, the bumper as pontification space was born.
At first, bumper signs were made of metal or cardboard and attached to the bumper with wire. The bumper sticker as we know it was invented in 1946 by a Kansas City screen printer named Forest P. Gill. After World War II, he found himself with a surplus of adhesive-backed paper and fluorescent paint so he decided to combine them. No one knows for sure what the first bumper sticker said (our guess: “I’d Rather Be Squeegeeing”). But the stickers soon became popular as mementos of fairs and other events.
The stories behind the stickers
Many of the early, metal bumper plates supported presidential candidates, so it’s surprising that the first political bumper stickers weren’t printed until the Eisenhower-Stevenson race in 1952. Stickers supporting (or vehemently not supporting) a political candidate or party are still big sellers, along with an infinite variety of other messages, ranging from the classic “My Other Car Is a Porsche/Boat/Horse” to the ever-popular “My Child Is an Honor Student at Local Elementary School.”
Here are the stories behind a few of the most iconic bumper stickers:
HONK if you …
We’ve all seen bumper stickers encouraging us to honk if we share the driver’s enthusiasm for or belief in something, as in “HONK If You Love Geese!” or “HONK If You Love Pointless Displays of Noise.” This trend dates back to the days of Nixon’s impeachment when “HONK If You Think He’s Guilty” was often seen on bumpers in DC.
Baby on Board
Few stickers have prompted such scoffing (or parody) as this ubiquitous yellow diamond. The usual snarky response upon seeing it: “Well, gee, I was going to hit you, but now I won’t!” (Not that I ever said that, of course.) Despite the sarcasm it provoked, the sign’s creator, Michael Lerner, was quite sincere in his intentions. After a hair-raising experience driving his 18-month-old nephew around Boston, the childless Lerner wanted to remind drivers that they share the road with children and need to be extra careful. His design was based on similar car-safety signs used in Europe.
The election is over. Now what?
Maybe your candidate won. Maybe not. In either case, your 2012 sticker is so, well, 2012. Here are 2 methods for getting no-longer-wanted stickers off your bumper:
Hold a hair dryer about 6 inches from one corner of the sticker to soften the adhesive. Use your fingernail or a razor blade to gently lift the corner off the surface. Then, apply heat to the whole sticker and slowly peel the corner back until the sticker comes free.
Gently peel up a corner of the sticker using your fingernail or a razor. Apply a spray lubricant such as WD-40 to the corner and begin to pull up slowly. Continue applying lubricant as you gradually peel off the sticker.
Share your thoughts
How do you feel about bumper stickers? Do you have any on your car? What’s your favorite bumper sticker? Let us know!
|
<urn:uuid:5026b023-f52b-46c3-9f67-dc8f3ffac8fd>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://blog.esurance.com/the-bumper-sticker-phenomenon-how-it-began-and-why-it-stuck-around/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783396147.66/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154956-00052-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.945595
| 799
| 2.609375
| 3
|
by Staff Writers
Washington (AFP) Jan 30, 2012
Across southern Florida, rabbits, raccoons, bobcats and foxes have been disappearing at dramatic rates over the past decade, and invasive Burmese pythons are to blame, a US study said Monday.
The big snakes which are native to southeast Asia have been devouring all kinds of wildlife leading to "severe declines" in once common animals, said the study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
The United States formally banned the import of Burmese pythons earlier this month, but the study suggests they have already caused enormous damage to the ecosystem in the Florida Everglades with unknown implications for the future.
The research was based on data from surveys in which dead and live animals are counted along roadways.
From 1993-1999, before the invasive snakes had established a population in south Florida, raccoons, opossums and rabbits were the most frequent roadkill.
But from 2003-2011, surveys spotted a 99.3 percent decrease in racoons, 98.9 percent fewer opossums and no rabbits or foxes, said the article authored by Michael Dorcasa at Davidson College in North Carolina and colleagues at the Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation and the National Park Service.
Surveys also saw 94.1 percent fewer white-tailed deer and 87.5 percent fewer bobcats.
These "severe apparent declines in mammal populations... coincide temporally and spatially with the proliferation of pythons in Everglades National Park," said the study.
During that period, annual removals of Burmese pythons have risen from less than 50 per year to 300-400 annually.
Raccoons, opossums, bobcats, deer and rabbits have all been "documented in the diet of pythons in Everglades National Park," added the study.
Raccoons and opossums may be particularly vulnerable because they forage at the water's edge where the pythons lurk, while other animals like deer and bobcats may be unaware of the danger posed by these unfamiliar snakes.
Just how the Burmese pythons made their way into the Everglades is uncertain, though some blame pet owners who set their snakes free when they grow too large.
Others believe the population began to take root after Hurricane Andrew swept through the region in 1992, destroying some pet stores and setting baby pythons free in the wetlands near Florida's pristine tourist beaches.
The changes to the ecosystem remain "complex and difficult to predict," said the study, noting that while nuisance reports about raccoons have dropped way off, there are mounting concerns the snakes could be eating endangered birds and other rare animals, too, such as wood storks and Key Largo woodrats.
The decline in foxes and bobcats could be due to the snakes eating them, or they could be starving due to disappearing small prey like rabbits.
Some species may rebound, such as crocodiles, turtles and birds, since there are fewer racoons to feast on their eggs.
But overall, more study is needed to understand the shifts in animal populations due to the introduction of a new top predator, the authors wrote.
"Whether mammal populations will remain suppressed or will rebound remains to be seen. The magnitude of these declines... justifies intensive investigation into how the addition of novel apex predators affects overall ecosystem processes."
Invasive species are a top threat to global biodiversity and the battle against them costs 120 billion dollars per year in the United States alone.
Darwin Today At TerraDaily.com
Comment on this article via your Facebook, Yahoo, AOL, Hotmail login.
Attack or retreat? Circuit links hunger and pursuit in sea slug brain
Champaign, lL (SPX) Jan 31, 2012
If you were a blind, cannibalistic sea slug, living among others just like you, nearly every encounter with another creature would require a simple cost/benefit calculation: Should I eat that, do nothing or flee? In a new study, researchers report that these responses are linked to a simple circuit in the brain of the sea slug Pleurobranchaea. A heightened state of excitation in the neuron ... read more
|The content herein, unless otherwise known to be public domain, are Copyright 1995-2012 - Space Media Network. AFP and UPI Wire Stories are copyright Agence France-Presse and United Press International. ESA Portal Reports are copyright European Space Agency. All NASA sourced material is public domain. Additional copyrights may apply in whole or part to other bona fide parties. Advertising does not imply endorsement,agreement or approval of any opinions, statements or information provided by Space Media Network on any Web page published or hosted by Space Media Network. Privacy Statement|
|
<urn:uuid:40d9dd88-9a79-414d-9418-695bce018153>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.terradaily.com/reports/Snakes_blamed_for_severe_declines_in_Florida_wildlife_999.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397744.64/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00135-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.925129
| 982
| 2.53125
| 3
|
Aster family (Asteraceae)
Description: This herbaceous perennial plant is about 1½–3' tall, branching occasionally. The light green to tan stems are terete and hairless (or nearly so). The opposite leaves are up to 5" long and 3½" across, becoming smaller as they ascend the stems. The lower leaves are cordate to cordate-ovate, while the upper leaves are broadly lanceolate to lanceolate. All of the leaves are largely hairless and strongly serrated-crenate along their margins; they are medium to dark green on their upper surfaces and light green on their lower surfaces. There are 3 prominent veins on the upper surface of each leaf (particularly the lower ones), while the lower surface has an elevated network of veins. The rather long petioles are ½–2½" in length.
The upper stems terminate in compound corymbs or flat-headed panicles of flowerheads that span 2-6" across. The branches of this inflorescence are light green and glabrous (or nearly so). Each flowerhead is about ½" across and contains 10-30 disk florets that have brilliant white corollas and styles. There are no ray florets. Each disk floret is about 3-5 mm. across when it is fully open, consisting of a small tubular corolla with 5 lobes that are spreading and pointed and a divided style that is strongly exerted from the corolla. At the base of each flowerhead, there is a single series of linear floral bracts that are light green and non-overlapping. The blooming period occurs from late summer through the fall, lasting about 2 months for a colony of plants. This is one of the last wildflowers to bloom during the fall. The flowers are often fragrant.
During autumn, each disk floret in a flowerhead is replaced by an achene with a small tuft of white hairs. These achenes are 2-3 mm. long, narrowly oblongoid in shape, 5-ribbed, and black; they are distributed by the wind. The root system consists of spreading rhizomes and shallow fibrous roots. This plant can spread vegetatively by means of its rhizomes, or it can reseed itself into new areas.
Cultivation: The preference is partial sun to light shade, moist to slightly dry conditions, and soil containing loam or clay-loam. Full sun in a dry situation can cause the leaves to turn yellow and wilt, otherwise this plant is easy to grow.
Range & Habitat: The native White Snakeroot is a common plant that occurs in almost every county of Illinois (see Distribution Map); it is quite likely that this species occurs in every county. Habitats include moist to slightly dry deciduous woodlands, woodland borders, thickets, partially shaded to shady seeps, bluffs, woodland meadows along rivers, powerline clearances in woodlands, shady corners of pastures and yards, fence rows with woody vegetation, and overgrown vacant lots. This species is especially common in wooded areas that are rather disturbed and degraded, although it also occurs at higher quality sites.
Faunal Associations: The nectar of the flowers attracts a variety of insects, including leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.), Halictid bees, wasps, various flies (Syrphid, Tachinid, bee flies, & others), butterflies, and moths. The bees also collect pollen. The caterpillars of some moths are known to feed on the foliage and other parts of Eupatorium spp. (Bonesets), including White Snakeroot (probably). These species include Carmenta bassiformis (Eupatorium Borer Moth), Papaipema cataphracta (Burdock Borer Moth), Phragmatobia fuliginosa (Ruby Tiger Moth), Phragmatobia lineata (Lined Ruby Tiger Moth), and the Gracillariid moth Leucospilapteryx venustella. Other insect feeders include larvae of the gall flies Asphondylia eupatorii and Neolasioptera eupatorii, the aphids Uroleucon eupatoricolens and Uroleucon eupatorifoliae, and the leaf beetle Sumitrosis inaequalis. Because the foliage is bitter and toxic, mammalian herbivores usually avoid this plant as a food source. Sometimes cattle will eat it in overgrazed pastures, which can produce fatal results.
Photographic Location: A powerline clearance at Busey Woods in Urbana, Illinois, and a deciduous woodland in east-central Illinois.
Comments: The common name of this species derives from the erroneous belief among early settlers that the bitter rhizomes were beneficial in the treatment of snakebites. In fact, the foliage and rhizomes are highly toxic, causing fatalities from 'Milk Sickness' because the toxins can pass through the milk of dairy cattle to humans. White Snakeroot has been reassigned recently to the genus Ageratina, although it is still often referred to as Eupatorium rugosum. Normally, White Snakeroot is largely hairless, although some authorities describe a pubescent variety of this species. White Snakeroot resembles many of the white-flowered Eupatorium spp. (Bonesets), but these different species can be distinguished from each other by the appearance of their leaves. Among the species in this group, White Snakeroot has the broadest leaves; its lower leaves are cordate or broadly ovate, and these leaves have long petioles. White Snakeroot usually occurs in and around shady woodlands, while many of these other species are found in prairies and sunny wetlands.
|
<urn:uuid:4edf6732-8972-42e2-9f9e-e01aea44e3a6>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/woodland/plants/wh_snakeroot.htm
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783399106.96/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154959-00173-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.938966
| 1,222
| 2.875
| 3
|
CURSOR - move cursor to specified position
- CURsor Column
- CURsor Screen UP|DOWN|LEFT|RIGHT
- CURsor Screen row [col]
- CURsor [Escreen] UP|DOWN
- CURsor [Escreen|Kedit] LEFT|RIGHT
- CURsor [Escreen] row [col]
- CURsor CUA UP|DOWN|LEFT|RIGHT
- CURsor CMdline [n]
- CURsor HOME [SAVE]
- CURsor File line [col]
- CURsor GOTO line col
- CURsor Mouse
- CURsor Prefix
- The CURSOR command allows the user to specify where the cursor is to be positioned.
- CURSOR Column moves the cursor to the current column of the focus line .
- CURSOR Screen UP | DOWN | LEFT | RIGHT moves the cursor in the indicated direction one line or column. If the cursor is positioned on the first or last line of the screen, the cursor wraps to the first or last enterable line. If the cursor is positioned on the left or right edges of the screen, the cursor moves to the left or right edge of the screen on the same line.
- CURSOR Screen row [ col ] is similar to CURSOR Escreen row [ col ], but all coordinates are relative the the top left corner of the screen, not the top left corner of the filearea . Hence, 1,1 would be an invalid cursor position because it would result in the cursor being moved to the idline . Specification of row and/or col outside the boundaries of the logical window is regarded as an error.
- CURSOR [ Escreen ] UP | DOWN | LEFT | RIGHT is similar to CURSOR Screen UP | DOWN | LEFT | RIGHT , except that where scrolling of the window is possible, then scrolling will take place.
- CURSOR [ Escreen ] row [ col ] moves the cursor to the specified row / col position within the filearea . The top left corner of the filearea is 1,1. row and col may be specified as '=' , which will default to the current row and/or column position. If row or col are greater than the maximum number of rows or columns in the filearea , the cursor will move to the last row/column available. If the specified row is a reserved line , scale line or tab line an error will be displayed. If the row specified is above the Top-of-File line or below the Bottom-of-File line the cursor will be placed on the closest one of these lines.
- CURSOR Kedit LEFT | RIGHT mimics the default behaviour of CURL and CURR in KEDIT.
- CURSOR CUA UP | DOWN | LEFT | RIGHT moves the cursor in the indicated direction one line or column. The behaviour of the cursor at the the end of a line and at the start of a line is consistent with the Common User Access (CUA) definition.
- CURSOR CMdline moves the cursor to the indicated column of the command line .
- CURSOR HOME moves the cursor to the first column of the command line (if not on the command line), or to the last row/column of the filearea if on the command line . With the [ SAVE ] option, the cursor will move to the last row/column of the filearea or prefix area (which ever was the last position) if on the command line .
- CURSOR File moves the cursor to the line and column of the file. If the line and/or column are not currently displayed, an error message is displayed.
- CURSOR GOTO moves the cursor to the specified line and column of the file, whether the row and column are currently displayed or not. If the line and col are currently displayed, then this command behaves just like CURSOR File . If not, then the current line will be changed to the specified line .
- CURSOR Mouse moves the cursor to the position where a mouse button was last activated. This command is specific to THE.
- CURSOR PREFIX moves the cursor to the first column of the prefix area (if not in the prefix area), or to the first column of the filearea if in the prefix area . This command has no effect if run from the command line . This command replaces TABPRE.
- XEDIT: Compatible.
- KEDIT: Compatible. Added GOTO and PREFIX option.
The Hessling Editor is Copyright © Mark Hessling, 1990-2006
Generated on: 30 Jan 2006
Return to Table of Contents
|
<urn:uuid:3b9dd6c0-9ef1-4af2-8f39-39296151e75a>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://hessling-editor.sourceforge.net/doc/comm/CURSOR.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783396887.54/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154956-00183-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.736496
| 1,024
| 2.890625
| 3
|
Terroir is the term for the unique blend of a vineyard’s soils, water and climate that impacts the flavor and quality of wine. These unique microbial inputs are key to regional wine fermentations.
A new study from UC Davis, MicroTrek, Inc. and Constellation Brands Inc. offers evidence that grapes and the wines they produce are also the product of an unseen but fairly predictable microbial terroir, itself shaped by the climate and geography of the region, vineyard and even individual vine.
Results from DNA sequencing revealed that there are patterns in the fungal and bacterial communities that inhabit the surface of wine grapes, and these patterns are influenced by vineyard environmental conditions.
To examine the microbial terroir, the researchers collected 273 samples of grape “must,” –- the pulpy mixture of juice, skins and seeds from freshly crushed, de-stemmed wine grapes. The must samples were collected right after crushing and mixing from wineries throughout California’s wine-grape growing regions during two separate vintages. Each sample, containing grapes from a specific vineyard block, was immediately frozen for analysis.
It isn't just the grape or even the soil, microbes matter too. Credit: Shutterstock
The researchers used a DNA sequencing technique called short-amplicon sequencing to characterize the fungal and bacterial communities growing on the surface of the grapes and subsequently appearing in the grape must samples.
They found that the structure of the microbial communities varied widely across different grape growing regions. The data also indicated that there were significant regional patterns of both fungal and bacterial communities represented in Chardonnay must samples. However, the Cabernet Sauvignon samples exhibited strong regional patterns for fungal communities but only weak patterns for bacterial communities.
Further tests showed that the bacterial and fungal patterns followed a geographical axis running north-south and roughly parallel to the California coastline, suggesting that microbial patterns are influenced by environmental factors.
Taken together, these and other results from the study reveal patterns of regional distributions of the microbial communities across large geographical scales, the study co-authors reported.
They noted that it appears that growing regions can be distinguished based on the abundance of several key groups of fungi and bacteria, and that these regional features have obvious consequences for both grapevine management and wine quality.
“The study results represent a real paradigm shift in our understanding of grape and wine production, as well as other food and agricultural systems in which microbial communities impact the qualities of the fresh or processed products,” said senior author Professor David Mills, a microbiologist in the Department of Viticulture and Enology and Department of Food Science and Technology at U.C. Davis. He noted that further studies are needed to determine whether these variations in the microbial communities that inhabit the surface of the grapes eventually produce detectable differences in the flavor, aroma and other chemically linked sensory properties of wines.
Gaining a better understanding of microbial terroir, growers and vintners may be able to better plan how to manage their vineyards and customize wine production to achieve optimal wine quality.
Collaborating with Mills were graduate student Nicholas Bokulich of the UC Davis Department of Viticulture and Enology; John Thorngate of Constellation Brands Inc.; and Paul Richardson, CEO of MicroTrek Inc., a company founded to provide microbial mapping services to help vintners understand this phenomenon. Constellation Brands Inc. provided in-kind support for the study through sample and metadata collection.
Citation: Nicholas A. Bokulich, John H. Thorngate, Paul M. Richardson, and David A. Mills, 'Microbial biogeography of wine grapes is conditioned by cultivar, vintage, and climate ', PNAS 2013 ; published ahead of print November 25, 2013, doi:10.1073/pnas.1317377110
- PHYSICAL SCIENCES
- EARTH SCIENCES
- LIFE SCIENCES
- SOCIAL SCIENCES
Subscribe to the newsletter
Stay in touch with the scientific world!
Know Science And Want To Write?
- How A Former Naturopath Can Help Unravel The Trickery of Alternative Medicine
- What Did Earth's Ancient Magnetic Field Look Like?
- Can A New Rule Trigger A Second EU Referendum? Petition Signatures Over 10% Of Total Votes Cast
- Insects Were Already Using Camouflage 100 Million Years Ago
- Some Celiac Disease May Be Due To Viruses
- Finding All-Hadronic Top - Again
- Better Brains With Beer
- "Ugh. Thanks for reminding me about the horrors of Abilify. My father, who is bipolar, was prescribed..."
- "Oops, I certainty didn't mean to suggest anything improper and I hasten to clarify that your comments..."
- "I usually never comment on blogs, or articles but this one is special. You have shown a couple..."
- "You are a very ignorant, and uneducated person. You have just cost so many many people life saving..."
- "Okay, on the last point first, yes there was fraud detected and 77,000 fraudulent entries..."
- Anti-Intellectualism Is Biggest Threat to Modern Society
- Chemistry Can Help Roast the Perfect Coffee Bean
- What Happens To A Soccer Player’s Brain After Missing A Penalty Kick
- It’s Back to Shots for Flu Prevention
- ACSH Applauds Media Awareness of the Fentanyl Crisis
- Counting Bites Examined, to Help Decrease Food Intake
- How to stop the United Nations from abusing its immunity
- Study examines quality of end life care for patients with different illnesses
- Improvements needed in end-of-life care for patients with organ failure
- Georgetown Institute launches real-time study of smartphone fertility app use
- After Brexit, Italy May Be Next
|
<urn:uuid:390277b7-24b4-4026-8184-c510f2df7ced>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.science20.com/news_articles/mapping_microbial_terroir_wine-125625
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783395679.18/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154955-00135-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.924572
| 1,217
| 3.71875
| 4
|
How to Set Up an Ad Hoc Wireless Network
Using an Ad Hoc network — also called a computer-to-computer network — is a fairly easy thing to accomplish in Mac OS X Snow Leopard. Plus, you’re not limited to just Macs: With an Ad Hoc network, you can also swap niceties with PCs and PDAs that have 802.11b/g/n network interface cards (NICs) installed. This Ad Hoc network is great for setting up an impromptu network in a classroom, exchanging recipes and pictures at a family reunion in a park, or blowing your friend up while gaming across the aisle of a Greyhound bus at 70 mph.
To set up an Ad Hoc network, you first have to create the computer-to-computer network on one of your Macs. This takes advantage of the AirPort Software Base Station that’s built into Snow Leopard.
To create a computer-to-computer network, follow these steps:
Open the Network pane in System Preferences and choose the AirPort entry.
The AirPort entry is in the list at the left of the pane
Enable the Show AirPort Status in Menu Bar check box.
Your AirPort status shows up in your menu bar, which makes the rest of this process easier.
Close the System Preferences.
This saves your changes.
Click the AirPort status icon on the menu bar.
Here you have the options to create a network.
Click Create Network.
The Create a Computer-to-Computer network pane opens.
Enter a name for your network.
Choose a name that is easy to remember.
Mark the Require Password check box.
This turns on WEP encryption.
Enter a password for your network and then enter it again to confirm it.
Note that the password must be an exact length (which is determined by whether you choose a 40-bit [5-character] key or a 128-bit [13-character] key).
In general, channels 1, 6, and 11 are the only ones that don’t overlap other channels and are therefore the best choices to use. If you’re close to other WAPs, AirPort Base Stations, or other Ad Hoc networks, try to find a channel that’s not being used, or performance can be degraded. (If you have only one access point, it doesn’t matter which channel you select; just allow Snow Leopard to automatically select a channel.)
Creating a computer-to-computer network gives the illusion of having an AirPort Base Station. So for people to join your network, they would follow the same steps as those they would use to join any other AirPort network.
|
<urn:uuid:c3d0548c-8746-4a2c-ad4f-cea996851c95>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-set-up-an-ad-hoc-wireless-network.navId-380883.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783398628.62/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154958-00039-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.890087
| 566
| 2.59375
| 3
|
Age of Aquarius
Due to the astrophysical process known as the precession of the equinoxes, the exact date of the equinoxes slowly moves backwards through the zodiac. As the equinox enters a different sign it is considered a new "age." Because of the vast distances, there is no hard and fast date between the last and next age. Depending upon the astrologer, the date of the beginning of the Aquarian Age ranges from between 1904 and 2680.
The “thinkers” of the Zodiac: Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius.
Alchemical measurement meaning a drop.
In astrology, a name given to the 29th degree of any sign; it is sometimes called the degree of fate. When a planet is in the anaretic degree of a sign (especially the Water signs of Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces), spiritual qualities (including intuition, intuitiveness, psychic abilities, and empathy) associated with the planet and sign are enhanced.
On an astrological horoscope, the "angles" are the lines formed by the ascendant (0 degrees), the I.C. (Latin for Imum Coeli, "bottom of the sky," at 90 degrees), the descendant (180 degrees), and midheaven (270 degrees). These are considered to be important points in a chart and are said to represent Cardinal qualities.
The Angular houses of the birth chart (1st, 4th, 7th, and 10th) are considered strongly expressive; planets in these houses are more easily recognized by others or may be expressed in a more physical manner than other planets.
Due to the precession of the equinoxes, the Earth goes through different astrological ages lasting about 2,150 years (the exact number of years is up for debate). Depending upon the astrologer, we are either currently in the Piscean age, are in the cusp with the Aquarian age, or actually in the Aquarian age. Roughly thought of as equivalent to the "New Age," most astrologers seem to hold we have not yet fully entered the Aquarian age. The signs of the Aquarian age include increased freedom, independence, and spirituality.
The best quality of Aquarius is your humanitarian attitude. The worst quality is argumentativeness. A key phrase is “I know.” Aquarians are seen as progressive. When we speak of the Age of Aquarius, we are speaking of a period beginning now and extending into the future, with all the possibilities the future has to offer. Aquarians may be well informed or even visionary in your thinking. You may not be grounded in the practical application of your ideas. Focused on a universal goal, you may not attend to the needs of individuals in ordinary circumstances.
Aquarians have advanced ideas. You are original and scientific in your methods, and you are strongly interested in education, for yourself and for others. You often prefer to learn through conversation with others, rather than through straight book studies. There is an unconventional quality in your thinking – you can take apples and oranges and make something greater of you.
Aquarians are generally pleasant, but you are also assertive. Your determination can turn to argument when you don’t get your way, and you can be unsympathetic to the views of others. Your temperament is affected by the world outside yourself, and can become cranky at times, or even rebellious. Your usual cheerful manner and understanding of human nature make you skillful social beings, but you may be somewhat reclusive, needing a lot of private time to think things through. You are not terribly practical and have to learn to manage time and money.
Aquarians are generally kind and are influenced by the kindness of others. This may be because you have moments when you are unsympathetic, and you recognize the need for this quality. Aquarians value your freedom, and thus respect the freedom of others. You are interested in metaphysical subjects. Your lack of demonstrative behavior may be your way of keeping your feelings to yourself.
Aquarius is the experience of individuality, and can be highly autonomous. As the Fixed Air sign of the zodiac, Aquarius expresses focused mental energy, and can show a strong level of ingenuity. Although most people think of Aquarius as progressive, it also has the capacity for fanatical attachment to an idea or ideal. Aquarius is the rebel and anarchist, but can be unselfish and altruistic, much like Uranus, which rules this sign. Symbolized by the Water-Bearer, Aquarius pours forth ideas streaming from the mind; in its highest form this is stimulated by intuitive awareness. Aquarius seeks to develop the true, unconditional love of friendship. Its cool detachment can be directed in positive ways to bring about change, but can also seem hurtful on a personal level. Where you see Aquarius in your chart, you see your need for the unconventional, and for the development of your individuality.
In astrology, a special calculation (attributed to Arabic astrologers) resulting in points on the chart that are believed to be impactful. To determine them you add the positions of two parts of a chart (such as the Ascendant and the Moon) and then subtract a third factor (such as the Sun).
The best quality of Aries is leadership. The worst quality is officiousness. A key phrase is “I am.”
The Aries personality is energetic and ambitious. Aries wants to be in command and to be in the forefront of every activity. Courage is a strong personality trait.
The Aries mental process is active as well. Not liking to be confined, Aries will entertain any idea and will refuse to be limited by precedent or environment. Enterprising in all things, Aries is no less goal-oriented in the mental realm. There is usually a bright, optimistic attitude that carries over to a confident demeanor. Aries is a good conversationalist, but don’t expect to change his or her mind.
Your temperament is daring. The fiery will of Aries expresses through forceful engagement in life’s activities. Self-willed, Aries wants to be in charge and may not take instruction well. Independent and impulsive, Aries can be rash at times. The desire to be ahead of others often leads to a competitive demeanor.
As mentioned above, the thought processes and temperament often lead Aries to be combative, or at the very least assertive. You make good executives because you have the drive to get ahead. Still, your headlong rush into things can be less than inspired at times. The keen mental edge and incisive wit make Aries interesting to be with, but tiresome when wit turns to sarcasm and mental activity becomes obsessive.
So why is a potentially obsessive or sarcastic individual a good leader? Because beneath these possibilities lies the resourcefulness to try something different in order to make a difference. Like the ram, Aries sees a target, puts its head down, and charges. After the initial thrust, he or she looks around, resets its direction and charges again. Enthusiasm is contagious, and Aries can be the source of it. Self reliance and enterprise are traits we admire in leaders, as we know you will be able to manage in difficult circumstances. And just as you demand your own personal freedom, you recognize that others need personal space too. Aries’ color is red; its part of the body is the head.
Aries is the initiator, displaying independence, courage, and the leadership necessary to get things started. The Cardinal Fire sign of the zodiac, Aries has everything to do with movement, and is uncomfortable standing in one place for too long. Ruled by Mars, Aries is strongly self-directed, and can be highly impetuous and abrasive, sometimes showing a rash or careless approach to issues. Symbolized by the Ram, Aries tends toward headstrong, "me-first" expression. Exuberant and self-reliant, Aries is capable of standing alone. This quality can also inspire others to follow suitbut Aries is not likely to wait around to see who is following behind! Where you see Aries in a chart, there is eagerness and self-will.
The ascendant, or rising sign, reflects your persona – what you choose to show to the world. Whereas the Sun sign is your individuality and does not change a great deal, you have the capacity to choose the nature and level of expression of your Ascendant. You can choose the most destructive expression, or you may choose to show a side of yourself to the world that is full of optimism and promise.
The ascendant is frequently useful in describing your physical characteristics and general health. Aside from geographical and ethnic realities, the rising sign shows complexion, hair and eye color, stature and weight. A Gemini would be rather taller than average, and Taurus might be on the stocky side, within the range of family tendencies.
The ascendant offers suggestions for what kind of clothing looks good and what color will make you seem stronger. The general shape of the head and face are linked to the Ascendant. The sign also indicates a part of the body that you can show off to good advantage. It may not be your favorite part of yourself, but it is one that will respond to careful treatment in terms of clothing, movement, etc. The Taurus may not think about the throat very much, but this is a key area to focus on to create a strong effect on others. Aquarians can benefit from careful selection of shoes, as the ankles are “the thing.”
As you learn about your Ascendant, you will find a whole array of new considerations for how to present yourself to the world. Should you be flippant or stern, gregarious or darkly serious? The rising sign can provide a wealth of imaginative possibilities.
Because the ascendant is the way others see you, physically and in every other way, it pays to understand what they are seeing. You can develop a whole range of clothing, movements, communication styles and general attitudes based on your rising sign. You can overcome limitations in other areas by emphasizing the positives here. In this way you actively participate in creating the impression you want others to have, and you become more influential as you project a well thought-out image.
In astrology, the start of the First House; rules the demeanor and the physical body.
Astrology: when a planet enters a certain geometric (i.e., 90°) relationship with another planet.
Magick: A description of part of an invocation, where a person takes on certain qualities—even the appearance—of a spirit or deity being invoked. In the Pagan ritual of Drawing Down the Moon, a High Priestess may aspect the Goddess to give advice and blessings to a group. Most often a part of a group ceremony rather than an individual rite.
Relationship between points in the chart. They are angles measured from the center of the chart. Specific angles are found to be significant.
On a circular chart, it is easy to see interrelationships between the planets, Sun, Moon, and other significant astrological points. These relationships are measured in geometric terms, and are called aspects. Aspects are measured by the number of degrees which separate two planets or points on the chart.
In astronomy, there are between 1.5 and 2 million small bodies known as asteroids that are a kilometer or larger in size. If you include smaller sizes, that number can jump to tens of billions. Although they are primarily found between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter, some (such as Chiron, which is between the orbits of Saturn and Uranus) are outside of that range. In astrology, there are four asteroids that are commonly used: Ceres, Juno, Pallas, and Vesta. These are also known as minor planets.
In 1982, a massive joke was played on the astrological community by Batya Stark and Mark Pottenger when they published The Asteroid Ephemeris, a book that supposedly delineated the asteroids Dudu, Dembowska, Pittsburg, and Frigga. Some people believed this to be valid, and have requested updates to this ephemeris from the publisher.
Two people born at the same date and time. They are often seen to have very similar personalities and may even have physical appearances that make them look like twins.
Each planet in your birth chart resides in a house. The chart’s houses symbolize different facets of the self. Think of them as the fields of experience upon which you live your life. Each relates to a certain environment and specific relationships.
One way to understand the houses is to consider the way you might act or dress if you were being interviewed by a prospective employer, and contrast that with the way you act or dress at home around people who know you on an everyday level. These experiences illustrate the differences between two different houses in your chart.
Astrology is a science that examines the action of celestial bodies upon all living beings, non-living objects and earthly conditions, as well as their reactions to such influences. The study of the stars is one of the oldest sciences known to humankind, tracing its origins back to ancient Sumer and even earlier. The astrological arts were well known to the Egyptians, Hindus, Chinese, Persians, and the great civilizations of the ancient Americas.
Astrology is the progenitor of astronomy, and for many years the two existed as one science. Nowadays, astronomy is considered an "objective" science of distances, masses, speeds, etc., while astrology is a "subjective" and intuitive science that not only deals which the astronomical delineation of horoscopes, but can also be called a philosophy which helps to explain the spiritual essence of life.
The practice of interpreting the positions of objects outside the Earth’s atmosphere and how they indicate or reflect events found here in the past, present, or future. In the past, some people saw this as fatalistic: “If it’s in the stars it must happen.” This is more accurately described as astromancy. Today it is generally accepted that the stars impel but do not compel.
The use of astrology to predict major weather patterns, especially hurricanes, tornadoes, violent storms, and other, weather-related dangers.
(144 degrees)—Planets separate by two-fifths of the zodiac indicate the quality of inborn talents.
Your birth chart, or horoscope, is drawn from calculations based upon the date, time, and place of your birth. Every element of the horoscope (which, if it’s like most Western horoscopes, will be drawn on a circular wheel) is expressed symbolically. Each symbol in the chart represents a celestial body, sign, house, or aspect.
This is the important data needed to construct an accurate natal astrological chart. Although many newspapers give astrological predictions or forecasts based only on the date of birth, that is like trying to fully understand how a car works by looking at the gas cap. For an accurate chart you need three things:
If one or more of these factors is not known, but if the time, date, and location of important life events is known, some astrologers will do a very time-demanding research (known as chart rectification) to create an accurate natal horoscope.
Cadent houses in the birth chart (3rd, 6th, 9th, and 12th) are said to be less forceful; planets placed in these houses may operate on a more mental or detached level.
The best quality of Cancer is the ability to nurture the self and others. The worst quality is holding on to things too tightly, or smothering. A key phrase is "I feel.” The Cancer personality is family- and home-oriented. The emotional well-being of the home environment is key to Cancer's emotional balance, which is even-tempered when it flows. When opposed, the Cancerian temperament can display other water characteristics, like freezing or flood stage emotions.
Never let the emotional side of Cancer fool you into thinking you are not leaders – this sign provides leadership in the feeling arena and can be influential in all areas where subjective feelings are important.
The Cancerian mind will often ask "how does this feel?" before deciding what action to take. You are true to your belief system and may be difficult to steer into any activity you cannot support on the "gut" level. This attention to inner feelings puts you in a good position in industries that appeal to the mass market, as you don't lose sight of individual preferences in the pursuit of the big picture.
Cancer is a water sign. Water takes the shape of the vessel that contains it, and water runs downhill. The Cancer temperament will go with the flow when that is convenient, and can be quite happy if the vocational, relationship, or recreational container suits the individual. Sometimes you surprise people, though, when you resist going a certain direction "on principle." Stick to those principles, as you set you apart from people who either don't seem to know what you really believe, or are not able to hold your ground in the face of opposition.
Generally you respond to others in a caring or nurturing context. You may consider what will help move a process along, or you decide what people should wear or eat, based on your needs, not yours. At the same time you can be a skillful manager, helping others to map out a clear, well-defined process for your activities. You are good at keeping projects on track – you know how to find the strongest current in the river, and then keep your craft headed into that current.
Key Phrase: I FEEL
Cancer is expressed through feeling, and can be purely emotional. It embodies the qualities of protection and tenderness, and shows a high degree of sensitivity. As the Cardinal Water sign of the zodiac, Cancer initiates emotions, both in the self and others. Like its symbol, the Crab, Cancer can be indirect and defensive, and may even show a tendency toward manipulation and passive-aggression. The most patriotic of the signs, Cancer will defend home and country, and has a soft spot for mothers. Sensitive, sympathetic, and intuitive, this is the sign associated with mothering and lunar energy. When carried to an extreme, it can be smothering, moody, and suspicious. Where Cancer is found in your chart, there is receptivity and a need to be emotionally connected.
The best quality of Capricorn is diplomacy. The worst quality is deceitfulness. A key phrase is “I utilize.” To understand Capricorn, one must understand that there is not much difference between diplomacy and deceit. Capricorns tend to be honest and conscientious in your dealings with other people, but you may learn through experience to not say everything you know. You have the capacity to take the practical path to a material goal and leave the precise truth to someone else. That said, Capricorns are responsible, self-disciplined individuals who can be very patient in the pursuit of your goals, and you generally act on a well-defined sense of moral right and wrong. You recognize and accept duty as a part of life.
Thoughtful and methodical, Capricorns are the masters of synthesis. You are methodical and organized in your thinking. Persistence is a quality that you cultivate. You find power in self-control and mental concentration.
By temperament Capricorns are cautious. You are subtle about how you gather the information you need, and you are subtle about how you apply your efforts to any task. You make good managers because of your excellent sense of organization, but you can brood or be overly exacting in what you expect. You are able to adapt situations to your own needs. You tend to be somewhat conventional in dress and demeanor.
Capricorns are able to take advantage of circumstances. You are mentally prepared to take action when the time is right, and you are efficient in your actions. You can appear unsympathetic to the needs of others, yet you faithfully fulfill what you see as your duty. While you sometimes seem rigid or selfish in your behavior, you are capable of self-sacrifice and are not unjust in your actions. Going back to the key phrase, “I utilize,” it is helpful to remember that Capricorns make skillful use of the people and situations around you, and you are generally not concerned about the popularity of your actions.
Key Phrase: I USE
The most ambitious sign of the zodiac, Capricorn is focused, cautious, and sensible. As the Cardinal Earth sign of the zodiac, Capricorn knows how to make the best use of the material, physical plane. The patience and discipline seen in Capricorn can help to provide a stable foundation for growth. But Capricorn can also resist change and become controlling, inhibited, and rigid. Symbolized by the Goat, Capricorn prefers the sure-footed path toward ascension, and will stand firm for a long time rather than back down. When hurt, Capricorn can be melancholy; when uncertain, driven by fears. Sometimes thought of as miserly, Capricorn rather prefers to be responsible and frugal, making the best use of all resources. Through its connection with the energy of Saturn, Capricorn desires to be the quintessential authoritarian. Where you see Capricorn in your chart, you find a need for structure and conscientious effort.
Assertive, ambitious, impatient. The cardinal signs are Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn.
An expression used by astrologers to mean an object that physically exists in space. Examples would include planets, stars, moons, asteroids, comets, etc. The ecliptic, an imagined circle of the sun's apparent path through the sky, is not a celestial body.
Although Ceres is just one of thousands of known asteroids, in astrology it is often treated as a minor planet. The asteroid is named after the Roman harvest goddess and is a version of the Greek Demeter. Keywords used in astrological interpretation of Ceres include: abandonment, agriculture, anger, compassion, domesticating, ecological, fertility, foster parenting, governess, menopause, mother, nanny, nurturing, animal husbandry, and survival.
An expression used by astrologers that generally indicates the planet that rules the first house (also called the Rising Sign or Ascendant) of a horoscope chart. Some astrologers use a different definition, describing the Chart Ruler as the planet nearest the first house cusp, which is very close to the Ascendant.
No matter the definition, the effects of a Chart Ruler are often quite profound, and according to some are associated with one's physical appearance.
Chiron is an asteroid traveling in orbit between Saturn and Uranus. Although research on its effect on natal charts is not yet complete, it is believed to represent a key or doorway, healing, ecology, and a bridge between traditional and modern methods.
In your birth chart, Chiron represents your deeper sense of purpose, and adds a subtle yet powerful drive to achieve a connection to higher values. Chiron may also indicate areas of vulnerability or emotional wounding which need special attention. Authorities have not yet determined Chiron’s influence is so well-established that many astrologers include it along with the Sun, Moon, and planets in their basic natal chart analyses.
An organization called The Magic Society® describes the Cinderella Linkage as an aspect generally between Chiron and another planet (Venus, Jupiter, or Neptune) and also between Venus and either Neptune or the Sun (or combinations of these aspects). They claim that a connection between two people with any of these aspects (when positive in the chart) impels a "rags to riches" life.
A very ancient astrological belief, possibly dating back to the Chaldeans, that certain years, especially multiples of 7, are important in a person's life (especially when it comes to the appearance of the body). Supposedly, a person is more likely to die during a climacteric year than during other times.
In astrology, a composite horoscope is created taking the mathematical midpoints between the same planets and points on two different horoscope charts, thus creating a new chart that blends planets, points, etc. Such a Composite Chart is believed to quickly reveal a relationship's dynamics.
(0 degrees)–Planets that are together in the zodiac. Indicates prominence of the two energies.
Conjunction occurs when bodies are 0 degrees apart. The influence of the conjunction is variable, depending upon the nature of the two bodies or points involved. It indicates a unification and intensification of planetary energies.
An artificial grouping of stars. They are often given names and mythologies that become fixed over time, such as the constellations of the zodiac.
The name used by astrologers to describe the situation where the declination (distance in degrees north or south of the celestial equator) of two planets is the same, but one is north and the other is south. There is usually a bit of leeway here, up to about three degrees. Contraparallels are usually interpreted as being like oppositions.
Used by a small group of astrologers, Cosmobiology and its principal tool, midpoints, was developed in Germany in the 1920s. Cosmobiologists do not use houses or traditional aspects. Instead, they read charts with the midpoints, or the halfway point between any two planets. The theory is that the midpoint is the place where the energies of both planets unite. The midpoint is also considered a sensitive point in predictive astrology. Cosmobiologists use midpoint “trees,” a listing of the midpoints for an individual chart, and not the contacts made by other planets, which result in what they call “planetary pictures.”
A dividing line between signs or houses in a chart.
An astrological chart drawn up for the time and location of a person's death.
A measurement of 10° of the zodiac.
In an astrological (or astronomical) chart, the term declination refers to the number or degrees something such as a planet is above or below (north or south) of the celestial equator.
In astrology, the start of the Seventh House; represents other people.
The sign opposite the sign of rulership. This is a sign where the planet's energy requires effort in order to be successful.
A classical astrology term used to indicate comfort or standing of a planet in a particular sign.
In astronomy and astrology, direct motion is a description of the appearance of normal forward motion of a body such as a planet through the zodiac signs. Sometimes, due to orbits of the planets in relation to the earth, the motion of the planets seems reversed or retrograde.
The “maintainers” of the Zodiac: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn.
The great circle of sun’s apparent path through the sky. This circle is divided into 12 zones (30 degrees each). Each zone is associated with a specific constellation or sign. The tropical zodiacal system, the one most used in Western astrology, links 0 degrees of the sign Aries with the Vernal Equinox (around March 21).
Although a popular concept with Medieval calendars, Egyptian Days were supposedly listed by Egyptian astrologers as being unlucky. New enterprises and surgeries should not be performed on these days:
January 1, 26
February 4, 26
March 1, 18
April 10, 20
May 3, 25
June 10, 16
July 13, 22
August 1, 30
September 3, 21
October 3, 22
November 5, 28
December 7, 22
Electional astrology is utilized in choosing the most appropriate time to begin something. The intent is to achieve a successful outcome, and the rules applied are very specifically set toward that end. Many of the rules have their foundation in horary astrology, the counterpart to this work. Unlike horary, which answers after the fact, electional astrology approaches the matter beforehand and “elects” an appropriate time to achieve a desired outcome. Though the rules are the same, they are applied differently.
The art of timing. It is utilized in choosing the most appropriate time to begin something.
Branch of astrology based on the theory that some dates and times are preferable to others for initiating an activity. It is often used by people in the know to schedule a wedding, business opening, job interview or acceptance, listing a home for sale or buying a home, signing contracts, and major purchases such as vehicles. There is no perfect time for anything, so the electional astrologer selects the best possible date and time to maximize the planetary positions in favor of the election.
The zodiacal signs are divided into four groups called "triplicities," and in their order they represent the four elements, fire, earth, air and water. Fiery Triplicity is composed of Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius Earthly Triplicity: Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn Airy Triplicity: Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius Watery Triplicity: Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces
Traditional feng shui utilizes five elements: wood, earth, fire, water, and metal. The elements embody the types of archetypal energy that shapes all things and symbolize the process of change. The interactions among the elements produce a continual cycle of growth and decay.
A book or list that gives the planetary positions daily for long increments of time.
Equal night. That time, or place, in the ecliptic where the days and nights are of equal length, which happens twice yearly when the Sun enters Aries (Vernal equinox) and Libra (autumnal equinox), from whence these signs derive the term, equinoctial signs.
A classical astrology term for the sign or house where a planet is capable of its best expression, with the possible exception of domicile (the house or sign the planet rules).
The sign opposite the sign of exaltation. This is a sign where the planet's energy tends to "fall away" from the highest or best expression.
Techniques to determine general economic trends and as a tool for investing. Involves the use of ingress and lunar phase charts for trends, and incorporation and first-trade charts for investing.
Stable, consistent, patient. The fixed signs are Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius.
Gemini’s best quality is versatility. The worst quality is changeableness. A key phrase is “I think.” Being a mutable sign, Gemini is changeable, and this can be the best or worst of qualities. Your versatility allows you to learn a little about just about everything and to develop skills in many areas. This makes for a good executive or manager, as you are able to oversee multiple activities and keep track of many projects at once. Other people can almost see the wheels turning. Gemini appears to be open-minded. Yet a time comes when no more oddball ideas can be wedged into the system. Then Gemini draws upon skillful thought processes to decide what to keep and what to discard.
Gemini is a mental sign, often intellectually driven. The capacity for communication includes both listening and telling, and thus you make wonderful companions and writers. Where Taurus wants physical expression, Gemini seeks out mentally challenging activities. You like the learning process. Gemini is intuitive, able to see into the future and gauge the results of your actions – another worthy executive trait.
The Gemini temperament is volatile in the true meaning of this term. You can vaporize at a relatively low temperature and you seem to be able to fly. Some people see this as the fickleness of a butterfly flitting from one flower to the next. The strength is in the ability to rise above the pettiness of situations to see the larger picture. Your mantra might be, “It just doesn’t matter.” Gemini is dexterous of hand, eye and wit, able to turn a situation or conversation in a new direction at will.
In spite of apparent adaptability, Gemini is sensitive at heart. You are aware of what others are thinking and feeling, and often take a diplomatic path to avoid hurting others. This could be at your own expense, although you don’t let us know it. Tolerance should not be mistaken for a lack of emotional depth. Gemini’s part of the body is the arms and lungs. Monochromatic or bright colors
Key Phrase: I THINK
Gemini is ever-curious, and indicates the experience of diversity. The Mutable Air sign of the zodiac shows a high level of flexibility and cleverness. Gemini is ever-youthful, witty, inquisitive - and sometimes nervous. Symbolized by the Twins, this is the primary quality of duality, and can present at least two sides to every picture. Gemini can also play the prankster, and show a high degree of fickleness. Intellectual pursuits, mental gymnastics, and wordplay all engage Gemini, which is ruled by the planet Mercury. Versatility is its higher expression; its most frustrating expression is distractibility and a lack of focus. "Jack of all trades, master of none" can describe Gemini in its weaker form. But when positively focused, there is little which can compare with the articulate, incisive, and intuitive perception associated with this sign. The placement of Gemini in your chart shows your need for adaptability and versatility.
An astrological term that relates to the very slow movement of the outer planets on a horoscope. Because of that extremely slow motion, entire age groups or generations are born with virtually the same aspects of the outer planets in their charts.
Divination system based on the position of the stars at birth; astrology.
In most astrological systems, horoscopes are drawn up as if the Earth were the center of the local planetary system. This is known as being geocentric. Debunkers have attacked astrology for this because our solar system is heliocentric, or sun-centered. However, the main chart used in astrology, the natal horoscope, is simply a picture of the skies at the time and place where a person was born, indicating relative positions of planets and stars. As such, it is a completely accurate view. Currently, there are some astrological systems that use a heliocentric model, but they are most often used as secondary resources.
Geometric Planetary Configurations
Beneficial Geometric Planetary Configurations are believed to indicate a person's major life themes or life purpose.
When four or more planets form two sets of oppositions that combine to form four squares, there is a grand cross or grand square. These planets are also usually related by mode (Cardinal, Fixed, or Mutable). This is a difficult configuration, and may produce more frustration than the T-square, but there is usually great strength accompanying it to endure and develop character.
When three or more planets are 120 degrees from one another in three parts of the birth chart, they form a triangular configuration called a grand trine. Usually, the planets are in the same element (Fire, Earth, Air, or Water), and the formation is described, for example, as a "Fire" or "Earth" grand trine. This pattern shows special protection and can be beneficial, although it does indicate a closed circuit of energy. It may also show areas where the person is self-sufficient.
In astrology, an aspect is a relationship between two points in a chart. Hard aspects indicate challenges, tensions, disagreement, and friction. Three major hard aspects are squares, oppositions, and quincunxes.
The use of harmonics in astrology is quite old and was practiced to a limited extent in ancient India. Today, thanks to the use of computers, determining harmonics, a numerical relationship between aspects, has become easier, so the use of harmonics in astrological interpretation has become more popular.
Harmonic charts multiply the positions of planets by a number, resulting in the planets appearing at new positions. Generally, the number is from 1—12, although theoretically other numbers (up to 360) could be used. Harmonic charts are most often used to add specialized information to interpretations.
An astrological chart where the Sun is the center rather than the Earth. Unlike the more common geocentric system, a heliocentric chart shows the Earth and not the Sun. The inner planets, such as Venus and Mercury, can have quite a different position in heliocentric and geocentric charts, while the distant planets will show very little difference.
Horary astrology is the art of answering a question by analysis of a chart drawn for the precise moment of the question. Within the horary chart lies the answer to the question, and all circumstances surrounding the matter.
Your astrological chart, or horoscope, is drawn from calculations based upon the date, time, and place of your birth. Every element of the horoscope (which, if it’s like most Western horoscopes, will be drawn on a circular wheel) is expressed symbolically. Each symbol in the chart represents a celestial body, sign, house, or aspect.
A "map" of the planetary positions at any moment of time as seen for a point on the earth’s surface. It is the form from which astrological interpretations are given based upon thousands of years of observed coincidental phenomena.
Clement: Mapping Your Birthchart: Understanding Your Needs & Potential
See Imum Coeli.
In astrology, an intercepted sign is one that is completely within an astrological house and does not appear on the cusp of that house. These always appear in pairs, with another sign also intercepted on the opposite side of the zodiac. For example, if Aries is intercepted in the second house, Libra will be intercepted in the eighth house.
The imagery of a sign being hidden within a house gives rise to the interpretation that intercepted signs relate to the unconscious mind. So, it is quite likely that if there are many planets in an intercepted sign, the person can have a powerful unconscious related to those planets. However, since it is within a house, the implication is that it may be challenging to access those unconscious strengths.
Because of its large size, it was originally considered a planet; however, its shape and location required it to be redefined as one of the thousands of known asteroids. It is often treated as a minor planet. Juno is named after the Greek queen of the gods who is also the goddess of marriage. Some astrologers consider Juno to be important and use it in their computations. Keywords for Juno used by astrologers for interpretations include: spouse, wife, partnerships, law giver, judge, women's issues, weather, money, and seduction. Depending upon its location in a chart, Juno can also represent rape, sex as a weapon, spousal abuse, and persons so abused. May sometimes refer to alternative lifestyle relationships.
Jupiter is in its rulership in Sagittarius. Jupiter is the planet that can tell you about processes in your life. On the physical level Jupiter relates to glandular function, specifically the liver. The sign and house placement indicate the general level of glandular function, and may indicate the most appropriate diet. Aspects to Jupiter can indicate the timing of diet and nutritional changes to achieve healthier processing within the body.
The same is true for the mind. Jupiter indicates a philosophical level of thinking. Its placement and aspects suggest how you relate to the world on the mental level, where you thoughts tend to expand, and how you approach new situations mentally. Jupiter reflects the area where you are most optimistic about life. It can also show where you can become extravagant or how you tend to exaggerate.
Jupiter also shows how you approach religious concepts. Do you examine the details Virgo style? Do you go with what is comfortable Taurus style? Jupiter shows how you come to understand the Universe and God, what inspires you to greater faith, and how you hold onto your beliefs once they have developed.
Jupiter is idealistic. Its placement and aspects show where idealism will take you during your life. Jupiter provides a reflection of how you pursue your mission in life. Here I am referring to your spiritual mission, but also to your career as that pertains to your spiritual development.
Jupiter reflects the human capacity for forgiveness. Each of us has a personal style where relationships are concerned, and each of us forgives the errors and differences in others. Jupiter’s placement and aspects show how we learn to forgive ourselves for weaknesses and mistakes as well. This is how we come to understand ourselves, not as vessels of perfect human expression, but rather as spiritually guided beings who seek our own most inspired, most confident, most successful expression. Jupiter allows us to indulge in excesses, while at the same time guiding us to our goals. This planet shows how your individual sense of humor works. Through Jupiter we come to understand humanity n general and ourselves in particular, both aspiring to be spiritually wise and understanding of self and others.
The system of astrology primarily practiced in India. It has three major differences from Western astrology:
Although it is sometimes called Vedic astrology, astrological research in India pre-dates the book known as the Vedas.
The best quality of Leo is kindness. The worst quality is domination. A key phrase is "I lead." The Leo personality is strong, even majestic. Leo wants to be dignified in every situation, and also may want to dominate. Stability is a pronounced trait. The Leo mental process tends toward large ideas. Leo is determined to rise to a position of authority and despises petty tasks. The desire for personal glory sometimes leads Leo’s reach to exceed the grasp in the pursuit of honors or high office. The individual will is generally focused, and cannot be easily swayed.
The passionate temperament of Leos makes you exciting to be around. You can be entertaining, as you seek the limelight, if not the love of the audience. You act from emotion or intuition, and may fail to consider the price of your actions. Impulsive and daring, you make good leaders, determined to win. You can also be willful, holding your own position in spite of the wisdom of the alternative.
The Leo disposition is sympathetic and warm-hearted for the most part. In leadership situations these qualities may manifest in the fact that you do not demand the impossible of others – that you reserve for yourself. Once committed Leos are faithful and trust in others. You are not very good at taking orders.
Leos are fair opponents. You recognize a good challenge and bring courage and nobility to the battle. You can be persistent in the pursuit of your goals, and thus provide leadership in difficult situations where others might quit. Like the lion, Leos wish to dominate your surroundings, but are willing to bask in the sun in a dignified manner. Once you have made a decision, you are outspoken in your expression of your position. You can be overbearing when you determine to get your own way. It is better to seek your agreement than to try to force you to accept someone else’s views.
Key Phrase: I WILL
The regal sign of the zodiac, Leo certainly knows how to claim the center of attention! Operating as the Fixed Fire sign, this is the quality of determined inspiration which develops a sense of loyalty, pride, and steadfast honor. But Leo can also be ego-centered, and in its more negative forms of expression shows arrogance and pomposity. Leo may be most comfortable at play, where the ego can relax and creative energy run free. There is magnetism associated with Leo, and a flair for the dramatic. Leo is as difficult to ignore as the Sun (which it is ruled by), and can be domineering, controlling, and dictatorial. But when expressing its more positive dynamics, Leo’s warmth and generosity are unmatched. Where Leo resides in your chart, there is a need for attention and an ability to show high levels of creativity.
The best quality of Libra lies in your natural social skills. The worst quality is your capacity to vacillate or approve without careful thought. A key phrase is “I balance.” The Libra personality is peaceful in general, although you can be formidable champions of justice when aroused. You are changeable, willing to go along with the decisions of others in all cases where the outcome is not of deep personal importance to you. The tendency to be indecisive may change as you gather experience, but you may always go through a “what if” scenario or two before choosing a course of action.
Vacillation has its positive side in adaptability. Libras are willing to dabble in many different areas, and this is how you gather enough information to hold your own in any social situation. You can be perfectionists in matters of personal importance, and can surprise others with occasional definitive expressions of your ideas and ideals.
The Libra temperament is sensitive and refined. There is an artistic quality to your mental and emotional outlook – you seek harmony in all things. Libras go along with the group, but this does not mean you are submissive. You are fully able to hold your own ground intellectually. You often supply the argument that leads to synthesis and equilibrium.
The Libra disposition is sympathetic and kind. You are considerate and would never think of causing harm intentionally. You enjoy social interaction and can meet others with impartiality. You are generally approving of the actions of others, and in leadership positions you will find gentle ways to point out the proper path.
The desire to be around other people inspires a cooperative attitude. Your clarity of communication can make Librans an inspiration to others – when you express your beliefs, you reveal your ideals, your creative sense, and your ability to integrate data into a balanced assessment of the needs of the moment. You appreciate the efforts of others.
Keyword Phrase: I BALANCE
Libra’s refined sensibilities are seen in artistry of all forms. Social and diplomatic, Libra can be highly impartial. As the Cardinal Air sign of the zodiac, Libra represents the need to initiate relationships and make connections. Yet Libra can also be distant, inconsiderate, and conceited. Symbolized by the Scales, Libra strives for balance and harmony, but is sometimes caught in indecision. Libran energy tends toward a high degree of logic and consideration, but can also be expressed through placating or argumentative attitudes. Ruled by the planet Venus, Libra is continually judging the value of everything. Libra knows there are two sides to every story, and when called upon to mediate, can be an exceptional arbitrator. Where you see Libra in the chart, there is a need for harmony, beauty, and refinement.
In astrology, a hypothetical dark second moon of Earth, about one-fourth the size of the moon. The existence of Lilith was first proposed by eighteenth-century astronomers, on the basis of a few sightings (probably of an asteroid). Charts of Lilith’s estimated positions have been drawn up, and a few modern astrologers make use of Lilith in chart interpretation.
From the Latin lumin: light. Luminary is a poetic term for the astronomical bodies that generate or reflect light. In our solar system they are primarily the Sun, Moon, and planets.
Latin name of the Moon and the Roman Moon goddess. In the Kabalah, Luna corresponds to the ninth Sephirah on the Tree of Life. Astrological keywords for Luna include: emotion, feelings, things that are reflected, changeability, mother and mothering, instinctual, all things to do with the home, the subconscious, memory.
Having to do with the Moon.
—Charles Darwin: The Descent of Man
In astrology, a term indicating the exact moment the moon is conjunct with the sun. The new moon.
Mars rules Aries. Mars is energy. It is the kind of energy that your body uses to contract muscles, to assimilate food, and to fire synapses in the brain. It is the kind of energy that makes gasoline burn, pushing pistons up and down, thereby moving your car. It is the dynamic energy of all action in the material world.
The god Mars was responsible for two distinctive kinds of energetic activity: He was the god of war, going around sowing terror and fear in the enemy and inspiring courage as well. On the other hand, he was a god of agriculture, encouraging the planting and tending of crops, and even encourage the crops themselves to grow.
The sign and house of Mars show where your personal energies tend to go when you are not guiding them. It also shows where you can concentrate your energy through decisive action for the strongest results. There is a certain reckless quality to Mars. This planet has to do with sharp instruments and vigorous force. We need to understand this planet in order to manage energy well, or it can become angry and destructive. Thus reading about Mars in your chart can provide answers to your questions about why some situations may have turned out badly, and how to use your physical and emotional energy more successfully in the future.
Mars is also the planet of desire. We all tend to use our energy to get what we want when we want it. Desire is a good thing, because it impels us forward to something new and better. It helps us to find partners and mates. It helps us to find satisfying food, clothing, and shelter. On the mental level, desire helps us to choose an area of study, to select books or movies we want to experience. On a still higher level, Mars indicates the direction of our spiritual passion. It shows what religious or spiritual path will satisfy our desire to understand the universe and master our own actions.
The aspects of Mars in your chart indicate the directions in which you can most easily direct your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual energies. Understanding Mars helps you to direct your actions to gain the best results.
Mercury was the messenger of the gods, and the planet is the fastest in motion. It moves back and forth through the sky, changing its apparent direction six times each year. This apparent back and forth movement is a reflection of how we learn. We listen, then we try. We go back to correct a pattern and we try again. Once we grasp a concept we can move forward quickly to the next challenge.
Our mental processes have two basic patterns. Inductive reasoning is something we are born with. It is the capacity to remember an experience and apply it to future situations. “Once burned, twice shy” is one way of looking at inductive reasoning. The other is deductive reasoning. This is the ability to take a number of observations and draw conclusions from the information. This is the ability of abstract thought. Statistical research has inductive qualities. If we ask ten people if they like a certain candy and six say yes, we tend to assume that 60 out of a hundred will like it too. Sherlock Holmes used deductive reasoning, putting several seemingly unrelated facts together to learn about his quarry.
Mercury provides us with a specific path for both kinds of reasoning, based on its sign and house placement. And Mercury, more than any other planet, takes on the attributes of its sign, house and aspects. Just as the god Mercury delivered a message without changing it, Mercury in your chart shows how you deliver your personal message. The sign shows your personal bias—how you typically choose to express yourself—and the house shows the area of life in which self-expression is the most important to you.
Mercury in your chart has to do with all kinds of communication. It shows the speed and quality. It indicates how you use the senses. It shows the area of your life where the reasoning processes can best be exercised. Thus it shows where you are likely to achieve the clearest and most potent expression of your inner thoughts to others. Aspects from other planets show how your communication is influenced by the events and people around you.
(Alchemy) The alchemical element described as fluid, creative, uniting, and neutral or androgynous.
The Midheaven is the first point in the chart to be calculated. The Midheaven is the part of the zodiac that is the highest (most elevated) visible point in the sky at the time you are born. If you ask the question, “How long has it been since zero degrees of Aries was at the Midheaven?” the answer tells you what degree of the zodiac is there in terms of time. If the Sun is at zero degrees of Aries, the Sun will be at the Midheaven at noon. Noon in this case is based on Local Time. Standard and daylight time can affect the zero Aries Sun’s position, placing it to one side or the other of the Midheaven point.
The Midheaven reflects what you know—or can know—about yourself. It represents ego-consciousness. Infants have little or no boundary between Self and Other. As children grow and learn, they come to understand themselves as separate beings, and they learn to depend on their own intelligence, emotions and skills. In short, they learn about themselves as they learn about the world. The Midheaven reflects this self awareness.
Psychologically healthy adults have a clear sense of Self, distinguished from Other. They know what their core motivations are, and they know what skills they have to achieve their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual goals. The sign the Midheaven occupies indicates the nature of self-understanding, and provides the springboard from which you can dive into the process of gaining ego consciousness—understanding of what moves you on a deep personal level.
The Midheaven offers a way to understand yourself better, and is key to developing a flexible ego. We all know people who seem brittle and inflexible. We sense that they might “break” if they are pushed too hard in certain areas. Flexibility means developing an ego structure that can withstand the onslaught of life experiences and adapt or adjust to them. Astrology points out one path toward the development of broad-based ego skills, and it describes both the limitations of your ego and the positive potential of self awareness.
In astrology, the degree of the zodiac at the highest point in the sky at the time for which a chart is cast. In natal astrology, the position of the midheaven is often used to interpret the highest goals or potentials a person may achieve in life.
In astrology, the tiptop of the chart, signifying worldly recognition and status. The Midheaven is the start of the Tenth House. Also known as the MC or Medium Coeli.
In astrology, a midpoint is the exact point (degree and minute) that is midway between two points (such as two planets, a planet and an angle, etc.).
Also known as the quadruplicities, there are three modalities: Cardinal, fixed, and mutable. The modalities are often associated or even considered to be the same as the traditional alchemical or magickal elements: fire, earth, air, and water. However, it's more accurate to describe them as the way an element functions, rather than the element itself.
The Moon is in its sign of rulership in Cancer. The Moon is visible to us because of reflected light from the Sun. Its monthly motion through the heavens and its phases are timers we should all take seriously. Hospital employees tell stories of increased birth rate or emergency room traffic as the Full Moon approaches. Astrologers know that important activities are best begun just after the New Moon.
The Moon in your chart reflects your subconscious mind. Its sign and house describe your emotional bias—the way your express your feelings most easily and directly.
It is interesting to note that the Sun and Moon appear to be exactly the same size in the sky. If this were not so, we could not have total eclipses of the Sun. But what does this mean to the astrologer? It means that the vitality of the Sun is equal in importance to the action of the Moon in your life. The expression of your individuality is equal in importance to the nurturance of your emotional well-being. Conscious awareness is equal to subconscious motivations. Studying your Moon sign can provide clue to your inner life and suggest paths to increased personal satisfaction with life.
In terms of career, the Sun may show what you want to be when you grow up, but the Moon shows the path—the means—to that end. (This relationship happens to be true for all kinds of astrological charts—for events, nations, weather forecasting, etc.) Learning about the sign and house of your Moon will provide answers to many questions you may have about how to take positive action. This is the area of the chart that shows your emotional changeability, and it also reflects your best path to any other kind of change in your life.
Finally, the Moon shows, by its sign and house, how and where you can be comfortable. It suggests the physical surroundings, the material objects, and the emotional tone that is pleasant for you. It also shows how you assimilate—food, information, emotional vibrations.
The Sun and Moon together form a team. You will find that be considering them together, you get a fuller, richer sense of who you are and how you can become happier and more successful.
As the Moon orbits the Earth, its relative position with the Sun and Earth light the surface of the Moon, giving the impression of the Moon growing or shrinking. This is generally divided into four phases, the growing or waxing phase, the shrinking or waning phase, the full Moon and the dark or New Moon. Some systems add more phases to this model.
The zodiacal sign in which the moon is located, determined by the moment and location for which a horoscope is drawn (such as the time and place of birth). Many astrologers believe the moon rules emotions (and rules the intuition along with Neptune); therefore, the Moon sign in a birth chart will reveal a great deal about a person's personality.
The study of countries, cities, provinces, and states. Each has a birth chart that is used to forecast trends and major events affecting that entity. Mundane astrologers would use a city’s chart, for example, to forecast a natural disaster, or a country’s chart to forecast the general welfare of the people for a certain time period.
This branch of astrology also includes the study of wars, peace agreements, presidential inaugurations and other government-initiated events. From the birth chart erected for the start of the event the astrologer can predict the outcome.
Weather forecasting, or astrometerology, is another area included in mundane astrology.
Adaptable, responsive, restless. The mutable signs are Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces.
Your natal (birth) chart, or horoscope, is drawn from calculations based upon the date, time, and place of your birth. Every element of the horoscope (which, if it’s like most Western horoscopes, will be drawn on a circular wheel) is expressed symbolically. Each symbol in the chart represents a celestial body, sign, house, or aspect.
Neptune is in its rulership in Pisces. All that is glamorous, mystical, metaphysical, and inspirational participates in the energy reflected by Neptune in your chart. Like Uranus and Pluto, Neptune remains in one sign for many years, so your friends all share a similar grasp of Neptune’s energy. The house placement and the aspects to Neptune color your sensitivity in a more personal way.
What you consume is what you are on the physical plane. The placement of Neptune indicates how you assimilate food, drink, medications, and other drugs. It shows your tolerance for foods and other substances, and indicates where your physical system can get out of balance most easily. Therefore, Neptune indicates an area where care can prevent or lessen harm.
Confusion and deception are part of the Neptune picture. Vagueness and glamour can be part of fraudulent activity, or they can be the essence of entertainment. Magic shows are all about deceiving our senses in order to surprise and entertain us. Neptune’s placement shows your level of susceptibility to deceit and your level of ability as well.
Imagination is part of Neptune’s realm. Your creative style depends on the ability to use your feelings and intellect to make something new and different. Problem-solving means imagining solutions and then trying them on for size mentally before rushing into action. Dreams are a function of this energy, and Neptune’s placement can show a lot about the nature of your dreams and their role in your life.
Spirituality is a significant part of human life. Neptune speaks to this area by showing you what area of your life needs a spiritual boost. It also show you what career or other activity will satisfy your inner spiritual yearning. Neptune’s movement through your chart will indicate times when spiritual measures are called for.
Psychic impressionability is in Neptune’s realm. Your ability to tune in to others can be defined by examining Neptune in your chart. Your best path to psychic development may be described by Neptune’s placement and aspects.
The New or Dark Moon is the beginning phase, when the Moon and Sun are together (conjunct) in the sky. This occurs each month and in each sign, with the occasional 13th New Moon falling in the last degrees of the same sign as the previous New Moon. This event is called a "Blue Moon," and the term "once in a Blue Moon" is used to indicate a rare event.
The nodes are mathematical points that represent where the orbit of the Moon around the Earth crosses the ecliptic (which is the apparent path of the Sun around the Earth). The North Node and the South Node are always exactly opposite each other in the chart.
The North Node is the point where the Moon's orbit rises above the ecliptic. See Nodes
In astrology, a lesser-used relationship where two points, such as two planets, are at an aspect of 40°. Some astrologers equate the Novile aspect with the ability to understand and make use of information that can lead to evolutionary growth.
(180 degrees)—Planets opposite each other in the zodiac indicate where the individual will be aware of differences.
The apparent motion of the Sun each day follows a path through the sky that in relation to the horizon appears higher or lower. The amount above the horizon is called the Sun's declination. Usually, the position of the planets is between the north and south limits of the Sun's declination. However, they can move outside this range. In astrology, when planets are outside of the Sun's north and south declination limits, they are said to be out-of-bounds. When such positions are considered by astrologers, it is said to indicate unique or outside-the-box thinking or activity in relation to the impact of the planet.
In astrology, this refers to the situation when two planets have a certain aspect to each other, but the signs they are in do not match that aspect. This may refer to the concept that a relationship on the surface is not the same as a deeper aspect.
One of the thousand of known asteroids, it was the second to have been discovered and one of the largest. It was originally considered a planet. It's named after the Roman goddess who served as the ruler of the sky who is associated with the Greek goddess Athena (goddess of wisdom, courage, civilization, justice, mathematics, strength, the arts, crafts, etc.), becoming Pallas Athena. Some astrologers use Pallas in their horoscopes and give it keywords that include: wisdom, creativity, intellect, war and peace, political activism, social concerns, strategy, literacy, martial arts, competition, the military.
In astrology, an aspect where two planets are at the same degree (either north or south of the horoscope's equator). Usually, only a very small Orb of difference is allowed when claiming planets are parallel.
Part of Fortune
In astrology, a point in the chart that shows where joy and fortune can be found.
Because of the precession of the equinoxes, the position of the stars in relation to the Earth slowly changes, moving through one sign of the zodiac every 2,100 years. Since there are no lines of demarcation in the universe, just transitional areas, the full effect of entering an age may begin to occur a hundred years or more before any date given as the beginning of an age, and may not completely manifest for hundreds of years after the age has officially started.
The Piscean Age reflects what has been called the “Christian Dispensation,” and perhaps its most obvious feature in this aspect is the dependence upon someone or something other than yourself for spiritual evolution. Dates given for the end of this age range from 1904 to later than 2200, but that does not mean that the effects of the change to the next era are not being felt. Even in song we are told that we have entered “the dawning of the Age of Aquarius.”
The best quality of Pisces is sympathy. The worst quality is hypersensitivity. A key phrase is “I believe.” The Pisces personality is dreamy and idealistic. You like to float in an ocean of sensitivity, relating to your own feelings and the feelings of others in a direct way. You are the classic romantics, wanting to indulge the senses. You sometimes appear to be vague.
Mentally Pisceans are prudent people, balancing the emotional side with the capacity to worry about details. Because your strength lies in the feeling realm, you may feel inferior in the mental realm. It is important to remember that the capacity for sound judgment lies as much in feelings as in logic. Pisces uses psychic senses to make decisions, and may need to learn how to back up these impressions with facts.
Pisces mirrors the environment.You can appear very different in different situations, and you can be responsive to the needs of others. More than that, you can inspire other people through your own emotional strength. You may be able to see into the future, but this very ability takes you out of the present, and therefore may keep you from completing projects.
Pisces is a peaceful sign. You often are retiring, preferring to be on the edge of things watching than to be in the middle of the action. You tend to worry and may feel slighted by others. You believe what you feel.
The great strength of Pisces lies in the ability to respond in two worlds—the world of practical social dealings and the internal world of mystical experience. You may need to develop the strengths of planets in other signs to get you around in the day-to-day world, but you are well-equipped to understand the realm of spirit. Your adaptability usually gets you what you need on the material side, even while you have your minds on Utopian quests. Compassion can be one of your strongest qualities.
Key Phrase: I BELIEVE
The most sensitive sign of the zodiac, Pisces represents imagination, idealism, and compassion. As the Mutable Water sign, Pisces can show exceptional flexibility, but can also be unfocused and uncommitted. Pisces tends toward the visionary, psychic, and poetic aspects of life, and has qualities of the mystical. Ruled by Neptune, Pisces can also be the escapist, and may relish the roles of victim, martyr, and/or rescuer. Symbolized by two Fish tied together and swimming in opposite directions, Pisces can likewise spend a lot of time going in circles, feeling confused. But its positive expressions of empathy and tenderheartedness turn our attention to the plight of humanity and the fact that we are all one. Pisces can transcend the trap of co-dependency through quiet awareness of the inner self. Where this sign resides in your chart lies your need for imagination and vision.
Alchemical association of metals with the astrological qualities of planets. Different sets of associations exist, but one of the most popular ones is:
In Western astrology, planets are objects that move through the sky. The planets most used in astrology are the Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, Pluto, Chiron, and the asteroids. Earth is not considered a planet, as Western astrology is geocentric and has the Earth as a point of reference around which the planets appear to move. Since, from this viewpoint, the Earth doesn't move in the sky, it's not considered.
Pluto is the god of the Underworld. His actions are mysterious and even frightening. The planet was discovered in the 1930s at a time when the underworld of gangsters was thriving, causing serious disruption and turmoil. The power of such activities is only one expression of Pluto’s kind of energy. Pluto is the ruler of Scorpio.
Obsessive thinking and compulsive action are indicated by Pluto. The house position and aspects of Pluto show where you can get caught up in destructive thought patterns and activities that are not in your best interest or do not serve the general welfare of people. Often the impulse behind such activities is control at any cost, regardless of the results.
Transitions and transformations of all kinds are a broader expression of Pluto-type urges. The god of the Underworld rules over death; Pluto in your chart can indicate how you face and accept major changes in your life and in the lives of family and friends. It shows the kind of events that come into your life due to outside forces, and therefore how you develop flexible responses to pressure.
All invisible activities are part of the Pluto picture. You may find that many people in your age group share your views concerning ESP, psychic forces, and things magical. You also will find that you see particular uses for such energy, and your use will be different from theirs. You may feel this is of grater or lesser importance in your life. Learning about Pluto’s place in your chart can set you on a path of discovery of your own “magic.”
Transmutation and rejuvenation are not the least important of Pluto’s expressions. By learning to control less constructive impulses and actions, you can channel your energy into positive directions like hands-on or spiritual healing, strengthening your body’s immune system, and generally revitalizing every area of experience. As you come to understand your hidden urges and control your responses to outside influences, you can experience a rich diverse experience on all levels—you will have choice.
In astrology, the polarities describes a division of the signs into two sets of groups, often related to masculine and feminine qualities. Many modern astrologers use the Chinese terms Yang (masculine) and Yin (feminine) to describe them. The first sign of the zodiac, Aries, is Yang. The second, Taurus, is Yin. This alternation continues through the twelve signs.
Used to forecast trends and events in an individual’s life. There are many techniques, the most popular being the progressed and transiting planets aspecting planets and angles in the birth chart. Solar returns are also used by many astrologers.
Predictive astrology is a valuable tool in that it provides advance information an individual can use in decision making. It is helpful to know what’s on the horizon, when to pursue career goals, when to conserve and when to spend, when relationships will be upbeat or strained, and when to expect developments in an ongoing matter.
A set of methods for creating a new astrological birth chart based on a combination of the original birth data (date, time, location) and the current date. The most popular method is to draw up a chart that is one day later than the original for each year a person has been alive. This chart, also known as a progressed horoscope, is used to indicate influences for the current year, as opposed to the influences at birth. While this may seem arbitrary, it has been used successfully for centuries. Often used with transit charts.
(150 degrees)—Planets five signs apart indicate the nature of adjustments the individual will be required to make.
Pronounced as if it is an Italian word, ("kwin-deh-chee-leh"), it refers to 15 degree increments of aspects in an astrological chart between two planets, corollary points, or cusps. This is based around the twenty-fourth harmonic, and 360° of a circle divided by 24 equals 15. Since this has to do with increments, the quindecile expression refers to relationships of 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 105, 130, 135, 150, 165, and 180 degrees.
According to Noel Tyl, one or more quindecile aspects appear in as many as 85% of horoscopes. They can suggest an important focal point or extreme concern, mania, upheaval, etc.
(72 degrees)—Planets separated by one-fifth of the zodiac contribute creatively to each other.
Rectification is an important part of astrology that has become easier to accomplish with the aid of computers. The precise time of birth is important when making a horoscope, but many people do not have a birth certificate with an accurate time. Rectification is a technique that uses known events, relationships, and experiences, as well as personality traits, to determine a precise birth time, allowing for the creation of an accurate horoscope.
Used to determine the most optimum locations in the world for life activities such as relationship happiness, career success, vacationing, or retirement. The astrologer relocates the individual’s birth chart to a new location as if the person had been born there.
Actually an optical illusion, a planet is called retrograde when its course appears to turn backward. When a planet is in retrograde motion at one’s birth, its energy is turned inward and must be developed from an inner awareness before it can be fully expressed externally.
From our viewpoint on earth, planets other than the Sun and Moon appear to back up at certain times of the year. They aren’t really moving backwards but appear to be moving backward in the zodiac from an earthly perspective.
The rising sign, or ascendant, reflects your persona—what you choose to show to the world. Whereas the Sun sign is your individuality and does not change a great deal, you have the capacity to choose the nature and level of expression of your Ascendant. You can choose the most destructive expression, or you may choose to show a side of yourself to the world that is full of optimism and promise.
The Ascendant is frequently useful in describing your physical characteristics and general health. Aside from geographical and ethnic realities, the rising sign shows complexion, hair and eye color, stature, and weight. A Gemini would be rather taller than average, and Taurus might be on the stocky side, within the range of family tendencies.
The Ascendant offers suggestions for what kind of clothing looks good, what colors will make you seem stronger. The general shape of the head and face are linked to the Ascendant. The sign also indicates a part of the body that you can show off to good advantage. It may not be your favorite part of yourself, but it is one that will respond to careful treatment in terms of clothing, movement, etc. The Taurus may not think about the throat very much, but this is a key area to focus on to create a strong effect on others. Aquarians can benefit from careful selection of shoes, as the ankles are "the thing."
As you learn about your Ascendant, you will find a whole array of new considerations for how to present yourself to the world. Should you be flippant or stern, gregarious or darkly serious? The rising sign can provide a wealth of imaginative possibilities.
Because the Ascendant is the way others see you, physically and in every other way, it pays to understand what they are seeing. You can develop a whole range of clothing, movements, communication styles and general attitudes based on your rising sign. You can overcome limitations in other areas by emphasizing the
positives here. In this way you actively participate in creating the impression you want others to have, and you become more influential as you project a well thought-out image.
In astrology, each planet has certain qualities and is linked to a zodiacal sign with similarities or an affinity to that sign. The planet is said to be the sign's ruler. If the planet appears in that sign in a horoscope, the effect is enhanced. If it appears in a sign that is at odds with the sign it rules, its effect is diminished.
The best quality of Sagittarius is loyalty. This is true for Sun sign Sagittarians, and also for people with other planets in this sign, although with other planets, the loyalty may extend only to matters concerning that planet. The worst quality is indiscriminate game-playing. A key phrase is “I aspire.” The Sagittarius personality is generous, ambitious, and loyal. Self-reliant, Sagittarians can go off on world travels alone without a qualm, and tend to throw youselves into life with the same energy you would pack for such a trip. You can make effective decisions, and therefore are often found in executive positions. You reveal your enthusiasm and positive attitude toward life.
You like to travel mentally as well. You can study subjects deeply, and enjoy
philosophical conversations. You tend to be somewhat conservative, as you would expect for your time of year—it is the conservative harvesting of summer’s bounty that feeds us in December, after all. Once you understand the theory of
a subject, you are able to take effective action in the practical realm.
The Sagittarius temperament is outspoken and frank. In fact, sometimes you may wish you could restrain your speech. Still, you are usually open-minded, able to listen to what others have to say. You tend to hold to your own opinions
tenaciously, yet you are able to change your minds when a suitable argument is presented. Generally able to make quick decisions, you can be too hasty at times.
Sagittarius is usually proper in demeanor. You can give or take orders, and thus are solid companions, able to share leadership cheerfully. When you engage in sports, you learn the rules and abide by you, just as you respect the rules in all areas of life. Your understanding can come across as magnanimous at times, and at other times you seem self-righteous. You aspire to lofty heights and may be disappointed if others do not attain the same level. You seek to comprehend, both on an interior basis and on a practical level, and once you understand the dynamics of a situation, you cheerfully accept your proper role.
Key Phrase: I UNDERSTAND
Sagittarius is the optimistic quality which inspires us to have faith in ourselves and our futures. As the Mutable Fire sign of the zodiac, Sagittarius expresses the ability to maintain an open mind. Philosophical and tolerant of differences, Sagittarius can show great wisdom, and through the energy of Jupiter, its planetary ruler, is stimulated to reach toward broader horizons. Yet it can also be tactless, blunt, and even condescending. Sagittarius must have an opinion about everything - in a pinch, it will generate one on the spot. Sagittarius looks for adventurous and philanthropic opportunities; when carried to the extreme, it can become overly zealous and gluttonous. Symbolized by the Archer, Sagittarius is always looking upward and forward, and may sometimes gallivant into the sunset leaving others behind. Where you find Sagittarius in your chart, there is a need to expand and to develop tolerance.
Where Jupiter showed process, Saturn shows structure. Saturn is the ruler of Capricorn. Its placement and aspects indicate how structure is perceived either as limitation and restriction that keep you from pursuing your desires or as a container in which you can lead an orderly and productive life. On the whole structure is a good thing. The structure of bones allows us to move about and stand erect. Our skin provides a container without which we would surely die. It is how we perceive the container and what we do with it that makes all the difference.
As Saturn moves through the signs, its cycle defines major life changes. Around age seven you develop a new sense of personal responsibility, at about 15 you become a young adult, able to use abstract thinking in your decision-making process. At age 21 you become an adult in the eyes of the law, and around age 28 to 30 you experience your first Saturn return (It takes Saturn 28 to 30 years to go through all of the signs one time), and you undergo a shift from an extended growth period into an extended productive period. This structure is more or less the same for everyone.
The sign and house placement of Saturn indicate how you can best pursue your career, whatever that career may be. Should you start out owning your own company Leo style, or should you undertake humanitarian goals Aquarius style? By following Saturn’s indicators you can plan a career course that allows a steady development.
Saturn provides a barometer for you in the form of feedback. Sometimes you feel limited in what you can do, and you can use this as feedback about what educational opportunity to pursue. Sometimes you are afraid of the next step, and you can use this fear to show you where to seek emotional support. You will experience authority and responsibility in your life in constructive or destructive ways, based on where Saturn is found. Saturn can become your inner teacher and guide, as well as a timer for major changes throughout your life.
The best quality of Scorpio is resourcefulness. The worst quality is the ability to cause trouble. A key phrase is “I desire.” Intensity is the principal personality trait of Scorpio. Whatever career or vocational interests you pursue, you do it with tremendous force. The strength of desire is seen in every serious effort a Scorpio makes. You are proud, and can become the nemesis of anyone who insults you.
The Scorpio mental process is meditative. You can take a set of data and ponder it, penetrating the surface evidence to find the deeper meaning. You can cope with difficult and disagreeable tasks because you understand that such tasks will eventually be completed and you will return to the center of your life’s current none the worse for the effort, and perhaps stronger for the experience of surviving under pressure.
Secretive and intense, Scorpio’s temperament is sometimes difficult to tolerate. These very qualities, however, are part of the magnetism that draws people to you. The intensity can be expressed through healing or destructive energy, and only the Scorpio can determine which way you will go. Probably no sign indicates a stronger will. Personal experience teaches the Scorpio how to direct that will.
Scorpios often are rather reserved. You are unyielding to the sorts of pressure that work well with other signs, and often do well in careers where independent action is encouraged. Your ability to focus on a single task and put all your energy into it is often seem as skillful. You are often respected for your determination, but perhaps not loved, as you are not manipulators of gentle energies.
No one can exert the pressure that Scorpio can. You make devoted friends who will tell the truth boldly. When you lie, the lies are equally bold, and it may not be possible to tell the difference. The trained Scorpio mind seldom has to resort to a lie, as the truth is seen as a much stronger weapon. Desire lies at the root of all Scorpio action.
Key Phrase: I CREATE
Scorpio is passionate. As the Fixed Water sign of the zodiac, it illustrates the qualities of strong and abiding attachment. Ruled by Pluto, Scorpio serves to bring healing and transformation. Despite an often cool, calm exterior, it senses everything and misses nothing. Symbolized by the Scorpion and Eagle, Scorpio represents powers of destruction and regeneration. Scorpio is erotic, sensual, and incisive, but can be an extremist and unrelentingly vengeful. Scorpio explores and investigates until the core is exposed, often displaying exceptional research abilities. But there can also be an obsessive quality with Scorpio, and repressing emotions or holding onto pain are difficulties that can arise with this sign. Yet Scorpio has direct access to the energy necessary for birth and rejuvenation. Where you find Scorpio in your chart, there is intensity and strong feeling.
(30 degrees)—Planets that are exactly one sign apart on the zodiac. Indicates growth; can be uncomfortable.
(45 degrees)—Planets exactly one and one-half signs apart in the zodiac indicate internal tension and stress.
(135 degrees)—Planets four and one-half signs apart indicate agitation, which may not be evident to observers.
(60 degrees)—Planets that are two signs apart are able to cooperate to produce opportunities.
In astrology, two bodies or celestial points that are 60 degrees apart in the zodiac. A friendly relationship or aspect.
Due to slight changes in the movement of the Earth around its axis, the positions of the stars in the sky relative to the equinoxes and solstices slowly change in what is called the Precession of the Equinoxes. In the common Western form of astrology, which uses the Tropical zodiac, the Vernal Equinox always is associated with 0 degrees of the sign Aries. With the Sidereal Zodiac, which is found in other forms of astrology such as Jyotish, the astrology of India, the equinoxes and solstices move slowly backward through the signs of the Zodiac at a rate of one degree between 70.59 and 72.15 years.
See Signs of the Zodiac.
Signs of the Zodiac
The Zodiac is a circle of space surrounding the Earth. It may be imagined as a belt in the heavens about 15 degrees wide in which the planets travel. It is the Sun's apparent path, called the ecliptic. The zodiacal circle is divided into twelve parts, each part containing 30 degrees of space called the Signs of the Zodiac. Thus a sign is a one-twelfth division of the zodiacal circle and is defined as containing 30 degrees of celestial longitude: 12 signs each measuring 30 degrees constitute the circle of the zodiac or 360 degrees. In this circle the planets travel each in its own orbit, one outlying beyond the other. The zodiac, then, is a circle divided into twelve signs through which the planets travel or transit from west to east, going through one sign after another in their order from Aries to Pisces. Although the zodiac is generally referred to as a circle it is, in fact, elliptical. Each sign possesses a certain specific influence of its own.
The motion of the Earth around the Sun once a year causes the Sun to appear to pass through one of the 12 signs each month. Its influence, according to location, determines not alone the seasons but the general nature and character of persons born at that time.
The signs in order are Aries the Ram, Taurus the Bull, Gemini the Twins, Cancer the Crab, Leo the Lion, Virgo the Virgin, Libra the Scales, Scorpio the Scorpion, Sagittarius the Archer, Capricorn the Goat, Aquarius the Water-Bearer, and Pisces the Fishes.
Latin for the Sun, the only star in our solar system. In Astrology it is treated as a planet, the ruler of the sign Leo. On the Kabbalistic Tree of Life it corresponds to the sixth Sephirah, Tiphereth. When interpreting horoscopes, astrological keywords associated with the Sun include: identity, vitality, creativity, ruler, king, ego, pride, self esteem, inner self, forcefulness, leadership, will power, egotism, authority, boss.
In astrology, a solar return chart is a horoscope created for when the Sun returns to the exact degree/minute/second of its position at your birth, usually within a day or two of your birthday. Because the other planets move at different speeds, they will be at different positions in this chart compared to your natal horoscope. This new solar return chart may be interpreted to give a report for the upcoming year.
Standing Still. The point in the earth's orbit around the Sun in which the ecliptic reaches its maximum obliquity. The Summer Solstice occurs annually around June 22, when the Sun enters Cancer at 23.5 degrees N declination, highest overhead in the northern hemisphere. The longest day of the year. The Winter Solstice occurs annually around December 22, when the Sun enters Capricorn at 23.5 degrees S declination, its lowest point in the northern hemisphere. The shortest day of the year.
The South Node is the point where the Moon's orbit falls below the ecliptic. See Nodes.
(90 degrees)—Planets three signs apart indicate challenges.
In astrology, two bodies or celestial points that are 90 degrees apart in the zodiac. A stressful relationship or aspect.
Because the motion of the planets around the sun is relative to the position of our vantage point here on Earth, some of the planets, especially the inner ones, will at times appear to move backwards (retrograde) in their motion. During the time they are changing from direct to retrograde or retrograde to direct, they appear to be stationary. Also known as "making a station," when stationary retrograde (changing from direct to retrograde), it can symbolize a delay or a reversal. When a planet is stationary direct (changing from retrograde to direct), it implies a revitalization, re-energization, or renewal. The Sun and Moon are never stationary.
When three or more planets are in conjunction with one another, a stellium is formed. This adds intensity to the sign and house in which they occur. A stellium creates a sense of self-absorption and can add a self-centeredness to the personality, but it also provides a sense of focus. The difficulty arises when the individual needs to change focus or make adjustments.
Succedent houses of the birth chart (2nd, 5th, 8th, and 11th) are sensitive; planets placed in these houses are likely to carry a more passionate charge.
The Sun rules Leo. Vitality is the energy reflected by the Sun in the astrological chart. Just as the Sun is the source of life for all living things we know of, the Sun’s position in your chart is an indicator of the way you approach life. Nearly everyone knows their Sun sign and a little bit about it. We read the astrology column in the newspaper to see how the day will be for our sign. Many people like the time of year around their birthday, not just because it is near their birthday, but because the energy of the Sun sign is so conformable.
Young children express the Sun sign energy clearly and directly. We tend to move away from this clarity as we learn different forms of expression, yet we always come back to the foundation of the Sun sign, learning to perfect the strengths that it indicates and to compensate for any weaknesses. The Sun is, in addition to being the source of life, the sustainer of our individual character. When you understand the deeper nature of your Sun sign, you also understand the core direction for your personal expression in the world.
The house position of the Sun in your chart indicates one area of life that takes on greater importance than any other. It is the area where you are perhaps the most self-conscious, it is where your will can be best expressed, it is where you can develop the greatest arrogance. You will focus loyalty and generosity in that area, as well as discover your own personal dignity.
The house and sign of the sun indicates an area in which you will strive to express yourself, and you will want to be recognized for your activities in that area of life. As you gain experience in living, you may become bolder in your efforts to attain your Sun sign goals. You can become a leader in this area because you understand the deepest and broadest values of this area of your life.
When you read about your Sun sign, take the details to heart. Make a personal effort—use your will—to develop the highest and best expression of this sign. It is your birthright, and the area where you can learn to speak and act with authority.
While the Sun is certainly an important planet in a horoscope, it has been stressed in simplistic books and in newspaper astrology columns, giving many people the idea that Sun Sign astrology is the entirety of astrology, and a straw man often used by debunkers and pseudo-skeptics against astrology.
To astrologers, the Sun is considered to indicate the Outer Self that a person reveals to the world; their apparent personality. In contrast, the Ascendant in a horoscope is believed to indicate the "True Self" or inner self.
While much can be revealed by knowing the Sun sign, the Sun is merely one of the planets, asteroids, and other points used in a horoscope. Along with the Sun sign, the Moon sign, and ascendant are considered to be the three most important elements in a birth chart.
The astrological practice of interpreting the natal charts of two or more people to judge compatibility and relationship advantages and challenges. Traditionally, this involves comparing how planets in one chart are in aspect to the planets of the other. Also involved is interpreting the house positions of each person’s planets as they fall in the other chart(s).
Synthesis is the name for the techniques of uniting all the separate bits of information and themes of a divination or reading together, determining the relative importance of each of these things to stress what is more important, and blending them into an internally consistent and harmonious whole. Although most commonly used by astrologers, the idea of synthesizing the bits of data in a reading can apply to any divinatory technique, such as a Tarot reading.
The best quality of Taurus is stability. The worst quality is stubbornness. A key phrase is “I have.” The Taurus personality is industrious, sometimes even plodding. It is easy to imagine the Taurus still going, like the Energizer Bunny, when everyone else has quite for the day. Once you get on a roll, you don’t want to stop. Taurus is seen as being reliable and generally consistent. You know the value of money and appreciate material possessions.
The Taurus mentality leans to things practical. Generally careful, you can discriminate quality and tend to be perfectionists. You have enormous energy reserves. You can pursue a single task for a long time, then switch tracks and take on another. You may not know when to rest. Taurus is immovable. Once you have made up your mind, changing it is like moving the whole earth. You may listen to the opinions of others, but you stick to your own. You are interested in the psychic realm as it is so close to the present moment.
Conservative in temperament, Taurus appreciates the traditional way of doing things. You are unlikely to abandon a system just because it has a flaw—you are more likely to capitalize on its strengths and find a way around the problem. Taurus is patient. You can wait for the right time to act, and you allow others the time you need to accomplish your tasks—that is only practical after all! Taurus enjoys a daily routine, a weekly routine, an annual routine. Generally you cannot be rushed into action. You are like a train—you only move as fast as you move. Yet Taurus is usually efficient, not wanting to waste effort, and therefore discovering the most direct path.
Taurus generally has a reserved disposition. You dislike change and are therefore less likely to force change on others. You are possessive and therefore do not demand that others give up your possessions. Taurus, like the bull, is placid, willing to take what comes, as long as it doesn’t irritate overmuch. Taurus’ colors are pastels, especially pinks and blues. The part of the body is the throat and lower jaw.
Key Phrase: I HAVE
Taurus is conservative, and prefers to maintain the status quo. Operating in a Fixed mode and the Earth element, Taurus can be extremely stabilizinglike the Rock of Gibraltar. Through a natural connection with the energy of Venus, Taurus loves the good things of life, and can be highly affectionate. A natural, earthy sensuality is associated with this sign, which can also be highly possessive. Taurus is calm, steadfast, and enduring, but can become a raging bull when angered to the extreme. The symbol of the Bull associated with this sign shows the power behind it, yet there can also be a slow, plodding pace connected to Taurus. The desire for a stable financial and emotional base can lead to extreme materialism when those of this sign feel insecure. But in its most positive expression, Taurus is the essence of deep and abiding love. Where you see Taurus in the chart, there is focus and conservatism.
The relationships of the positions of the planets in an astrological chart in comparison to their position in another chart. Usually, this compares the positions of the planets at a specific time (such as a birthday or at the time for making a decision) with the positions of a natal or birth horoscope. The transits can also be tracked on a daily basis. This information can be used by skilled astrologers to provide information on current ups and downs in a person’s life.
A minor astrological aspect between two planets, corollary points, or cusps that are 108° apart.
(120 degrees)—Planets four signs apart indicate comfortable conditions where their energies are concerned.
In astrology, two bodies or celestial points that are 120 degrees apart in the zodiac. A friendly relationship or aspect.
The zodiacal signs are divided into four groups called "triplicities," and in their order they represent the four elements of fire, earth, air, and water.
Fiery Triplicity is composed of Aries, Leo, Sagittarius Earthly Triplicity: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn Airy Triplicity: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius Watery Triplicity: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces
In astrology, the zodiacal signs each have characteristics of one of the four natural elements of fire, earth, water, and air. Although it can be confusing to call them triplicities (there are four elements, so shouldn't they be called quadruplicates?), since there are 12 zodiacal signs, the pattern repeats three times to give each sign one of the elements.
Eight hypothetical planets "discovered" by Alfred Witte and Friedrich Sieggrun at the beginning of the twentieth century. Ephemeredes for their positions exist. These hypothetical planets are called Cupido, Hades, Zeus, Kronos, Apollon, Admetos, Vulcanus, and Poseidon.
Uranus rules Aquarius. If you have wondered why and how sudden changes come into your life, look no further. Uranus may be the answer. This planet reflects the energy of sudden change and also provides the intuitive information you need to deal with beginnings, endings, and even catastrophes.
Let’s look at the independent, unconventional actions inspired within us and reflected by Uranus in the chart. This planet shows what part of your life will be the focus of your independence and where you will take an unconventional approach to family, career, relationship—everything. Disruptive ideas and events come along to bring you back into balance. Have you noticed that the more eccentric your behavior, the more life gives you a push and forces you to conform? This is Uranian type energy working to bring you back into balance.
Next consider the role of intuition in your daily life. As you have disruptive episodes, you begin to be able to anticipate them, making adjustments ahead of time to minimize the upset. For example, once you slide on the ice a few times you learn how to keep your balance. Then you learn how to control a skid while driving a car. Then you understand how to manage a spiritual disruption ore easily. This is due to your developing intuition—you can foresee the future partly because of past experiences themselves and partly because you recall intuitive flashes that preceded or accompanied them. Uranus shows how this works for you personally.
When you find yourself detaching from people and events, this is Uranus in action. You have the capacity to take an aloof position, a more analytical and less active role in situations. The placement and aspects of Uranus show how you can best achieve an impersonal attitude in the face of difficulty (or it shows you how to remain connected in those moments when you would really rather be doing something else). This energy focuses your attention on invisible inner perceptions of your world in a way that is similar to everyone in your age group (all your friends have Uranus in the same zodiac sign), yet utterly personal in its development and expression, based on the house placement and aspects to other planets.
Venus is the goddess of beauty, and is the ruler of Taurus and Libra. She makes everyone feel comfortable. She has a positive outlook on life and imparts that feeling to others. Venus in your chart may indicate, by its sign and house, the part of your body that is most attractive, or a part of the body that you find attractive in others. The seductive part of your personality can be described by looking at Venus. This capacity is clearly not restricted to sexuality, but extends into every area of your life. Venus shows how you can convince others, not through force of will, but through a magnetic attraction.
As an indicator of how you interact well with others, Venus does not suggest co-dependence. It does suggest interdependence, something that has been essential for human development. Babies have a perfection of form that makes us fall in love with them. Movie stars are dressed and made up to be as attractive as possible. Politicians demonstrate the magnetic charisma that convinces us to vote for them, sometimes in spite of all logic.
There is a rhythm to this magnetic attraction and beauty. We get closer to someone to find out what they are like, and then we withdraw to consider how we are feeling about what we discovered. The sign and house Venus occupy describe how all of these functions work. It shows what we like, what about us is the most attractive, and how we engage in the interactivity of human life. It shows how we approach companionship in general.
Venus also indicates where we look for harmony in our lives. When you seek cooperation from others, you want it to fit in with your ideal of harmony. Thus, whatever the context, you will put your personal spin on the situation, molding other people to suit your thoughts on how things work best. Occasionally you may find that the way you want to do things is not practical in the situation, or doesn’t work so well for other people. By understanding Venus in your chart, you can develop alternative methods that both achieve the desired goal and provide a level of comfort for you personally. This refinement process is indicated by Venus’ sign, house and aspects.
See Spring Equinox.
One of the thousands of known asteroids, it is named after the Greek goddess who served as a comforter, keeper of the sacred hearth, and sacred harlot. In Astrology some practitioners treat it as a minor planet and interpret it using keywords such as: sister, sexuality, fertility, comforter, charity, sacred chastity, sacred warrior, sacred harlot, sacred sex, diplomacy, rituals, secret societies, hospitality, and tradition.
The best quality of Virgo is analytical ability. The worst quality is petty criticism. A key phrase is “I analyze.” The Virgo personality is nothing if not practical. You can be attentive to details to the point of obsession. Virgos have encyclopedic memories for detail, and can often recall casual references to minor subjects. You thrive on meticulous examination of the facts, and are able to manipulate statistics easily.
Virgos can take the thoughts and ideas of others and organize you into a working whole. Your orderly approach to most subjects insures that you will not overlook any significant information in your pursuit of an answer to a question. Once you have completed an analysis, you can seem to be arbitrary in your decisions. Never think, though, that you have not considered the question first. Virgos can be ingenious at dissecting a problem to get to the heart of a matter.
Virgos are worldly. You understand the nature of material reality. You are fastidious about your own appearance, and often have orderly homes, offices, and vehicles. Virgos make good followers, but as you progress through life you accumulate the knowledge and experience to make you good leaders. Your analytical style does not have the flamboyant energy of the Leo, unless you have planets in Leo, but your dependability and honesty are strong management traits. Virgos tend to judge by results.
The Virgo disposition is discerning and critical. You are able to discriminate among diverse offerings and identify the best and worst qualities in people or things. You inquire into the why and how of things as much as into the concrete facts of what, where, and when. Generally economical in decision-making, you tend to buy quality and then keep it.
Key Phrase: I ANALYZE
Virgo’s expression is practical, neat, and precise, with a high degree of analytical ability. The Mutable Earth sign of the zodiac, Virgo prefers an approach to life which makes sense, and can be uncomfortable in the face of frivolity. Ruled by Mercury, Virgo’s mental energy tends toward problem-solving. This is the quality of methodical, painstaking attention to detail, which when carried to extremes can become overly critical, nit-picking, and tedious. But without Virgo qualities we would have no precision tools, and find ourselves trudging through a wasteland of disorganized ideas! Symbolized by the Virgin with Sheaves of Wheat, Virgo represents the harvest, and the importance of applied knowledge and effort. Virgo’s worst form arises in self-deprecating insecurity and general (although sometimes pointed) intolerance. Where you see Virgo in the chart, there is a need for perfection and efficiency.
Void of Course
The Moon is "void of course" when it has completed all its major aspects while in a specific sign. The Moon could be in any phase and also be in the last degrees of a sign. Void of course means without a course, or path, to aspect another planet. Generally the major aspects are thought to include conjunction, sextile, square, trine, and opposition.
The Moon from just after Full Moon until it disappears.
The Zodiac is a circle of space surrounding the Earth. It may be imagined as a belt in the heavens about 15 degrees wide in which the planets travel. It is the Sun's apparent path, called the ecliptic. The zodiacal circle is divided into twelve parts, each part containing 30 degrees of space called the Signs of the Zodiac. Thus a sign is a one-twelfth division of the zodiacal circle and is defined as containing 30 degrees of celestial longitude: 12 signs each measuring 30 degrees constitute the circle of the zodiac or 360 degrees. In this circle the planets travel each in its own orbit, one outlying beyond the other. The zodiac, then, is a circle divided into twelve signs through which the planets travel or transit from west to east, going through one sign after another in their order from Aries to Pisces. Although the zodiac is generally referred to as a circle it is, in fact, elliptical.
Each sign possesses a certain specific influence of its own.
The motion of the Earth around the Sun once a year causes the Sun to appear to pass through one of the 12 signs each month. Its influence, according to location, determines not alone the seasons but the general nature and character of persons born at that time.
The signs in order are Aries the Ram, Taurus the Bull, Gemini the Twins, Cancer the Crab, Leo the Lion, Virgo the Virgin, Libra the Scales, Scorpio the Scorpion, Sagittarius the Archer, Capricorn the Goat, Aquarius the Water-Bearer, and Pisces the Fishes.
The zodiac is divided into twelve signs, each comprising 30 degrees. The signs of the zodiac do not correspond to the constellations of the same names, although the mythologies of the signs and the constellations are related.
|
<urn:uuid:c9e74224-6b60-4697-87cd-4c6f0c4d81e5>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.llewellyn.com/encyclopedia/subjects.php?gen_sbj=Astrology
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397111.67/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00114-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.944147
| 22,872
| 2.671875
| 3
|
Crackers were named for the acronym "CRC" which stands for Climatological Reconfiguring Catalyst. In the simplest possible terms, a Cracker converts the atmosphere of a planet it hits from breathable to unbreathable in less than an hour via a process of high-speed deterraforming. This results, somewhat obviously, in the death of the vast majority of people on the planet. Only those with quick access to a space ship or some other form of artificial environment had any hope of surviving.
Crackers were popular because they left the resources of a planet largely intact, and open to whoever got to them first. However, this often lead to battles around dead planets between groups trying to claim rights of salvage, to say nothing of the ships in that system, often crewed by people who had friends and family on the "cracked" planet, seeking revenge on the scavengers. In response to the use of Crackers, full planetary shielding, such as Gaurron shielding, was quickly developed, since most techniques of surveillance were insufficient for detecting something the size of a Cracker, as opposed to the size of a spaceship or asteroid.
The Union quickly attempted to ban the use of Crackers. However, as many of the groups involved in the Orbital Wars no longer recognized their authority, this didn't help matters much. Indeed, many saw it as an incredible act of hubris to declare the use of Crackers illegal almost immediately after the Antiphon was used, and a few of these groups decided that the Earth should get a taste of its own medicine. During the fourth phase of the Orbital Wars, no less than three Crackers struck the planet that some claimed was the origin of all human life. Needless to say, all but the first were largely redundant.
The Union, which at the time was heavily based on Earth, although it purported to rule the entire Galaxy, was struck a blow from which it never fully recovered. However, from the metaphorical ashes of Earth's civilizations arose the [New Unified Terrans]?, whose role in the rest of the Orbital Wars was quite possibly more important (although much more warlike) than the role of the Union in the first three phases. Also, it should be noted that during the final years of the Orbital Wars, several groups and companies, primarily lead by Pharmacon?, began the reterraforming of Earth. This symbol of reconstruction and rebirth wasn't lost on many of the sides eager for a reason to seek peace.
|
<urn:uuid:131b56af-9b39-4617-9d48-f05ec1c94502>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.kevan.org/lexwiki.pl?Cracker
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783398516.82/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154958-00183-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.981498
| 507
| 2.796875
| 3
|
How to convert this into a program
I figured this out but how would I convert this into a program. It's actually for my sixth grade science class but I want to have a program to go along with my model. My dad said I should use JOptionpane but I don't know what that is. thanks for any help. Please don't answer if you aren't going to help thank you.
Environment: In an environment where it snows frequently during the winter, and rains frequently during the spring. Most people are going to work or school during 6:00am to 10:00am, and coming home during 4:00pm to 6:00pm. At noon there is a lunch rush.
Spring = 3
6:00am to 10:00am: 5
9:00am to 11:00am: 2
12:00pm to 3:00pm: 1
3:00pm to 6:00pm: 5
6:00pm to 9:00pm: 2
9:00pm to 12:00pm: 2
Make a program that adds up the numbers of both the season and time. If the output is
2, 3, or 4: Print Traffic is Low
5, 6, 7: Print Traffic is Medium
8, 9, 10: Print Traffic High
|
<urn:uuid:b005d723-0788-491e-ba59-e50450a5ee75>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.java-forums.org/new-java/45034-how-convert-into-program-print.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397749.89/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00138-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.978913
| 275
| 2.53125
| 3
|
Brooklyn and Manhattan teams established the game of baseball at:
Madison Square, New York City
Elysian Fields, Hoboken, NJ
Roosevelt Stadium, Jersey City, NJ
Central Park, New York City
Which of the following rules resulted when the New York Knickerbockers and other baseball clubs banded together to form the National Association of Baseball Players in 1858?
The umpire was given the power to call strikes.
Players were no longer allowed to catch the ball in their caps.
No player was ever to be paid; baseball was to remain an amateur's game.
All of the above.
The curveball was "invented" in 1863 by Brooklyn Excelsior William Cummings, but the secret pitch that many batters missed was quickly:
passed to his team
known and used on the whole East Coast
the standard pitch thrown
Cyrus was Cy Young's nickname, originally meant as a putdown of the country boy from Ohio. What was his real first name?
Who was known as "the Flying Dutchman?"
In 1904, George Edward "Rube" Waddell set an American League record for left-handed pitchers, which still stands today. How many batters did he strike out in one season?
Which two teams were involved in the "thrown" 1919 World Series?
The Chicago White Sox and the Cincinnati Reds
The New York Yankees and the Chicago White Sox
The Cleveland Indians and the Brooklyn Dodgers
The Chicago White Sox and the Pittsburgh Pirates
"It ain't true, Joe," pleaded a young fan in reaction to this player's alleged involvement in fixing the 1919 World Series.
Which famed writer asked of Babe Ruth, "Who is this Baby Ruth and what does she do?"
George Bernard Shaw
In what position did Babe Ruth successfully start his career?
Who was the first African-American baseball player in the Major Leagues?
Moses Fleetwood Walker
In what year did Jackie Robinson arrive in the Major Leagues?
In 1995, Cal Ripken beat Lou Gehrig's record of number of consecutive games played. What was Gehrig's record?
This Saint Louis Cardinals player was called the "All-American Out" by Babe Ruth because of his poor batting performance:
Bobby Thomson's pennant-winning home run in 1951 came off which of these pitchers?
The Brooklyn Dodgers won their only championship in which year?
Which player has the highest all-time career batting average?
Who is the only pitcher to win 7 consecutive World Series starts?
The 1969 Mets swept which team to take the National League pennant?
San Francisco Giants
Los Angeles Dodgers
Pete Rose surpassed Ty Cobb's record for most career hits in what year?
Who is the only player to ever hit 40 home runs and steal 40 bases in the same season?
Which of these Berra-isms did Yogi Berra really say?
"Ninety percent of hitting is mental; the other half is physical."
"If fans don't want to come out to the park, nobody's going to stop them."
"It ain't over til it's over."
all of the above
Copyright 2003 WETA. All rights reserved.
|
<urn:uuid:05c92ce1-f0c9-445b-b33a-9e1b28af26da>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.pbs.org/kenburns/baseball/quiz/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783395346.72/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154955-00150-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.945704
| 666
| 2.828125
| 3
|
According to Hinduism and Hindu mythology, Parvati is the wife of Shiva. Shiva is one of the main gods of the Hindu religion. Parvati is considered to be a mother goddess by many people. Parvati is a word in the Sanskrit language that means "daughter of the mountain". Hindu teachings call Parvati the daughter of the Himalayas Mountains, where she is said to live. She has two sons, Ganesha and Kartikeya.
When shown alone, Parvati has four arms. In her arms she carries prayer beads, a mirror, a bell and citron. But when she sits by the side of her husband Shiva, Parvati has only two arms. In her form with two arms, Parvati holds her right hand up in blessing and holds a lotus flower in her left hand.
Parvati's conveyance (vahana) is a lion or tiger. This means that Parvati rides a lion or a tiger.
In Hindu scriptures, Parvati is mentioned many times. She is called by many other names. Some of them are:
- Ambika, meaning the mother
- Gauri, meaning the fair one
- Shyama, meaning the dark one
- Kali, meaning the black one
- Bhairavi, meaning awesome
- Durga, meaning inaccessible
- Bhavatarini, meaning savior of the world
|
<urn:uuid:e231f9ba-e3b4-47e3-bf9e-f159898bcb81>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parvati
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783398628.62/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154958-00096-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.963721
| 281
| 2.953125
| 3
|
Mixing colors is always a challenge especially if you are a new artist, so understanding the basics is essential in helping you progress into more advanced mixing.
Just to make it more complicated, paint color varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, so it helps if you make a paint color chart of the paints you use on your palette.
Once you have the chart, you can make color samples of different mixtures of your artist paints and use them as a reference for mixing the same color later on. It is critical that you identify which colors where used and the proportions.
This page contains introductory sentences to multiple color mixing topics. Be sure to click on the (more) link at the end of any topic to open a new page with expanded information and visuals.
At the bottom, I have included links to some of my favorite Recommended Reference Books for mixing colors.
Colors are broken down into several categories. The very first ones you want to start with, are the Primary Colors.
There are three of them: RED, BLUE and YELLOW
They are called Primary colors, because they cannot be made from any combination of colors or pigments.
Mixing any two of the primary colors together will give you ... (More)
The Secondary Colors are the result of mixing two Primary Colors together in equal parts.
There are three of them: GREEN ORANGE and VIOLET
You can get different secondary colors depending on whether you are using a "warm" or "cool" set of primary colors.
Brands differ in colors... (More)
What are Tertiary Colors?
These are the colors on the color wheel that
fall between the Primary Color and the Secondary
In this picture, you can see that the blue-green and the yellow-green would be the Tertiary colors.
In naming the Tertiary colors, the primary color is... (More)
What are Harmonious Colors?
Four or five colors that are close to each other on the color wheel are harmonious.
On this color wheel we have chosen four colors that are harmonious: blue, blue-green, green and yellow-green. They all have blue as a common primary color in them.
We could add blue violet into the mix and (More)
What are complementary colors?
If you look at the color wheel again, any color that is directly across from another color, is the complementary
Red and Green are complementary, for example.
A 3:1 ratio cadimium red to Phthalo green plus white will give... (More)
Now that you have an understanding of the outer ring of the color wheel, it is time to go into more specifics.
Every color is made up of three components or attributes: Hue, Value and Intensity.
Once you can identify these components, you can mix the appropriate colors to create that color on your palette. First let's define what these terms mean.
The name of a color starts by identifying...(More)
By varying the amount of each primary color you use, you can alter the Hue of the secondary color.
this color wheel, which I strongly suggest you get, you can see that if
you use equal parts of blue and yellow, you get "pure" green.
If you put more blue than yellow in... (More)
If you look on the other side of the wheel, you will see how black or white added to the colors darken or lighten them.
This is known as Changing it's
Using black or white with the Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Colors gives you unlimited values to choose from
I personally do not like using black if I don't have too, though, because I feel ... (More)
When mixed in unequal parts, you can take advantage of them for creating a variety of darker intensities of the dominant color without using black.
The perfect example is when
you have put down green for foliage. In this example, I added alizarin crimson to permanent sap green to darken the green for the appearance of shadowed areas.
The key is to use complementary colors in different... (More)
|
<urn:uuid:3d480ff7-6a5e-4251-9d8c-a08d0b873a53>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://filarecki.com/mixing-colors.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783402516.86/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624155002-00045-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.927605
| 854
| 3.3125
| 3
|
Life on Mars Experiment: Intriguing Results
Can life survive on Mars?
Yes! That’s the word from Planetary researchers at the German Aerospace Center (DLR).
DLR scientists have exposed various microorganisms for 34 days in simulated Martian conditions. In just issued findings, both alpine and polar lichens were found to endure the harsh environment found on the red planet.
“During this period, the lichens and bacteria continued to demonstrate measurable activity and carry out photosynthesis,” reported Jean-Pierre de Vera, a scientist at the DLR Institute of Planetary Research in Berlin and head of the Mars simulation project.
The microorganisms adapted to this environment, primarily in niches in rocks and in fissures and gaps in the simulated Martian soil.
This might be an indication that such adaptation strategies would make life possible in niches on the actual surface of Mars as well, de Vera added in a DLR press statement.
The researchers recreated the Martian surface with various mineral constituents, using knowledge obtained from missions such as the NASA Opportunity and Spirit Mars rovers.
In the chamber itself, they replicated the Martian atmosphere: 95 percent carbon dioxide, four percent nitrogen and trace gases such as argon and oxygen.
A vacuum pump system was used to create six millibars of air pressure, thereby simulating the red planet’s tenuous atmosphere.
Special radiation sources ranging from the ultraviolet to the infrared replicated solar radiation on the surface of Mars. Finally, the organisms had to cope with temperatures that fluctuated between minus 50 degrees Celsius to plus 23 degrees Celsius.
According to de Vera, the results obtained showed that the microorganisms could carry out photosynthesis even under these harsh conditions.
The water required for this process is present in the morning and evening of the Martian day, when humidity condenses as precipitation across the surface, and the organisms can absorb it.
The lichens prove to be “creative survivors” – primarily in niches on the surface – in small cracks and gaps. They adapted to the artificial Martian environment and demonstrated the same activity that they would in their natural environment.
“If life arose on Mars four billion years ago, it could have remained to the present day in niches,” de Vera said.
By Leonard David
|
<urn:uuid:35bd5505-1b9c-4991-b075-ecdb97daf005>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.spacefoundation.org/media/global-space-news/life-mars-experiment-intriguing-results
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783396222.11/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154956-00140-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.921783
| 472
| 4.03125
| 4
|
This is the most comprehensive evaluation of urban forest I have found to date. Herein following is an excerpt from Trees in Canadian Cities: Indispensable Life Form for Urban Sustainability See also: http://yorkurbanist.com/2015/04/24/trees-for-healing/ The graphic is from another source. Information abounds about the intrinsic and extrinsic values of Trees
Trees enhance the aesthetic beauty of the city. The idea that trees are pretty may be self-evident to any urban dweller as visions of green usually inspire calm and pleasant feelings. Indeed, city trees provide a wide set of visual pleasures, from the different colours of the leaves to the size and texture of tree trunks . Trees also have sounds, such as when leaves rustle in the wind or a carpeted floor of fallen leaves is walked upon.
Trees give people joy through the senses. Trees provide shade. Shade is at the root of so many of the social, economic, and environmental benefits provided by trees in the city. It is a vital service in promoting people’s health, as shade trees block harmful ultraviolet radiation . Shade trees, especially ones that are strategically situated where people congregate outdoors like in parks and on sidewalks, can help to mitigate the risk of skin cancer. Children are especially vulnerable to skin cancer, and thus trees in playgrounds and school yards have the potential of significantly reducing their exposure and risk of skin cancer. Through shade, trees sustain human health.
Trees help conserve fuel by reducing emissions from parked vehicles. Outdoor parking lots can be considered miniature urban heat islands with extensive impervious surfaces and low albedo. Vehicles parked in sunlight heat up and emit hydrocarbons into the air from the fuel in their tanks. Well-placed trees can reduce the amount of fuel that evaporates into the atmosphere from vehicles . Thus, trees conserve fuel while concurrently helping to sustain the urban atmosphere. Trees cool the city environment. Due to their built infrastructure, cities frequently experience higher temperatures than the surrounding countryside—this is the urban heat-island effect . Trees reduce ambient air temperatures by altering wind speeds, shading surfaces, and blocking solar radiation [51,52]. Trees also transpire water vapour into the air and, thus, cool it [53,54]. Consequently, the more trees there are in the city, the greater the cooling effect will be. This is especially relevant given expected climatic change and the associated warmer temperatures.
Trees clean the air. Air pollution is an issue for most cities, and urban trees help improve air quality. Gaseous pollutants like ground-level ozone, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide are removed from the atmosphere by trees by absorbing them through their leaves . Particulate matter is also removed from the air and stored temporarily on the plant surfaces until it washes off in the rain . Overall air quality is better with more trees in the city.
Trees foster health and healing. Trees help purify the air and reduce rates of asthma and other respiratory illnesses in urban populations [57,58]. When we fall ill, or are convalescing from illness, trees can play a pivotal role in healing. Landmark research by Ulrich showed that surgery patients recovered faster and better when the view through their hospital bedroom window was dominated by trees rather than another building. Research in Japan has shown clear health benefits from exposure to forest landscapes .
Trees enhance community safety. Security and safety are serious concerns in a city. Among the psychological causes of insecurity and feelings of danger, we find mental fatigue and elevated levels of stress. Although earlier research suggested that dense and naturally vegetated areas were perceived as insecure and threatening (e.g., ), these perceptions have been changing through the years with our understanding of how mental fatigue and stress are mitigated by green space and its most dominant feature–trees. More recent research shows that residents living in greener surroundings report lower levels of fear, fewer incivilities, and less aggressive and violent behaviour .
Trees increase property values. Trees in the city are a major component of a neighbourhood’s aesthetic appeal and benefit homeowners by adding monetary value to properties. For Portland, Oregon, Donovan and Butry found that a large tree on a residential property can add some $9000 to the sale price of a house. Land owners are also helping others by having trees on their residential properties, because adjacent homes and even entire neighbourhoods benefit from the increased property value. This is an important message to communicate to homeowners, since there is frequently more available space to plant trees on private residential properties than next to publicly owned streets.
Trees reduce energy costs. In some places, roughly 5%–10% of urban electricity demand is spent on cooling/heating buildings. Trees around buildings and houses can act as heat insulators and heat absorbers, shielding buildings from a high-temperature environment through shade, or keeping buildings from losing their heat in winter by increasing the humidity of the surrounding area and slowing down wind . Simulations in Canadian cities have shown that an increase in a neighbourhood’s tree cover by about three trees per house reduces the heating energy of that house by up to 10% and the cooling energy by up to 40% . The annual savings in heating and cooling costs can reach the hundreds of dollars every year depending on house size.
Trees prolong the life of infrastructure. Trees help reduce the amount of maintenance and repair required for city streets, thus reducing costs against the city budget. The asphalt used to pave streets is made up of aggregate held together by asphalt cement. The asphalt cement is a petroleum product, which breaks down and evaporates in the sunlight, causing streets to crack and eventually crumble into potholes, which need to be repaired, or the whole street repaved, at great cost. McPherson and Muchnik found that just a 20% shading of streets in Modesto, California, could save 60% of resurfacing costs over a 30-year period. This service provided by trees is a huge incentive for engineers and indeed all municipal managers to increase tree canopy over asphalt surfaces.
Trees capture and store carbon. Atmospheric carbon dioxide is one of the main drivers of climate change . Its concentration in the air is rising largely because of the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas . Anything we can do to slow down emissions of carbon dioxide and increase the rate of its removal from the air will be good for the future of cities . Trees capture carbon dioxide from the air and store the carbon in their trunks, roots, and branches. As long as a tree is healthy and growing, it stores increasing amounts of carbon. The more trees we have in the city, and the larger and longer they grow, the more carbon dioxide will be taken out of the atmosphere .
Trees slow down stormwater flow and consequently improve water quality. Urban land is covered mainly by roads, sidewalks, rooftops, and parking lots. Most of these surfaces are impervious and prevent rainwater from being absorbed directly into the ground. Consequently, stormwater and wastewater systems, as well as natural water bodies, are strained during heavy rains as runoff flows into them off impervious surfaces. Excessive runoff can lead to flooding, sewage spillover, and aquatic pollution. This is especially the case in cities like Halifax, where the older parts of the city have combined storm and sanitary sewers. City trees intercept some amounts of rainfall and retain it in their foliage for a period of time . Trees, thus, provide a critical economic service in stormwater management. Trees provide employment opportunities. As they grow up into overhead wires, shed their leaves, grow new branches in undesirable directions, drop dead branches, or die, trees are cared for by municipal workers as well as private landscape contractors and other specialized tree caretakers. Salaries make up large proportions of the budget of tree-care organizations. The more trees there are in a city, the greater the amount of economic activity associated with their maintenance .
Trees represent smart societal investments because they demand expenditures on caring for vital urban green infrastructure. Trees support business activity. The services provided by trees provide tangible financial benefits to business owners. Research has shown that consumers perceive business districts with trees as better places to shop . Moreover, consumers say they are willing to pay higher prices, travel further and longer, and shop longer and more frequently in areas with green streetscapes . This not only benefits business owners, but also provides incentive for them to become more actively involved in the stewardship of urban trees.
Trees enhance recreational opportunities. City residents frequently visit treed areas for recreation. Recreation in these areas can be passive or active, ranging from gentle activities such as cultural events, walking, picnics, or tree climbing, to active sports such as running or biking [74,75]. The many types of urban forest formats, ranging from treed streets to dense and naturalized forest remnants, serve diverse recreational uses . Trees enhance tourism. Among the few studies linking urban forests and tourism, Majumdar et al. concluded that for Savannah, Georgia, the better the urban forest, the more attractive the city is for tourists. This seems a reasonable conclusion considering that most city residents would like more trees and better urban-forest management in their own cities . All other things being equal, it seems fair to say that tourists would prefer to visit a well-wooded city as opposed to one with few trees.
Trees provide diverse foods. Trees have been a source of food for people throughout the ages. Urban settings are highly suitable for growing the full range of fruit and nut trees . Additionally, there may be opportunities to pick edible berries and mushrooms that grow on the forest floor of treed parks and other naturalized areas. Thus, trees can contribute, even if in a small way, to food security in the city.
Trees conserve biodiversity. Biodiversity, in the simplest terms, refers to the full diversity of life on earth and includes the diversity of gene pools, species, communities and ecosystems. Trees themselves represent important elements of biodiversity, but they also serve as host and habitat for a wide range of other organisms. The ability of trees to contribute to urban biodiversity increases as one moves from single isolated trees to lines of trees along streets and lanes, and further to stands of trees in parks and other areas . Urban forests can contribute immensely to biodiversity conservation through inclusion of the full range of native tree species in their full spectrum of ages and community associations . Trees promote learning opportunities. Trees provide habitat for many kinds of wild organisms, including fungi, insects, lichens, birds, mammals, and other vascular plants. An excellent focus to start learning about terrestrial nature in the city is the trees. Indeed, there is no better place to learn about nature than to be in it . Getting away from the city and out into natural forests can be costly and may even be impossible for some people. The alternative is to study nature in the city. Trees in the city can provide excellent opportunities to learn about the kinds of species and natural ecosystems there are in the countryside and the wilderness. Research has also shown that urban trees can enhance the learning capacity of learners .
Trees impart a sense of place. Feeling a sense of belonging in the city is important to its citizens. The vegetation of a locale can contribute strongly to this sense of place. The presence of trees transforms barren areas into pleasant, welcoming spaces that infuse the city environment with a positive sense of self . It has been shown that well-kept treed neighbourhoods serve to strengthen the ties among residents, generating a sense of place and stewardship among neighbours . This in turn generates important civic values such as a greater sense of safety and adjustment, more use of neighbourhood common spaces, and fewer incivilities .
Trees contribute to a sense of well-being. The main argument is that the more that people can experience nature, the better they feel, emotionally, mentally, and physically [11,86,87]. The lack of nature in cities means that many people cannot benefit from it as directly as they might. In many cities around the world, trees dominate the natural ecosystems. If we are to bring nature to the people in an urban environment, that means more trees, not just in total but also more trees in naturalized conditions (see ). A healthy urban forest contributes to a healthy and happy people. To sum up, we conclude that trees boast an extensive and diverse array of values to cities. We suggest that they are the greatest contributors to urban sustainability of all forms of plants. In absolute terms, the contributions of trees to urban sustainability are substantial. The more trees there are in the city, the better the city can serve as a good place to live.
|
<urn:uuid:0a7aec25-6748-4ef6-b800-4df666e45f63>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://yorkurbanist.com/category/landscape-architecture/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783396872.10/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154956-00059-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.954923
| 2,595
| 3.203125
| 3
|
We walk on it every day. Get it under our fingernails. Track it into the house. But do we really appreciate the vital role soil plays—not just in the environment, but in human health?
"The minerals, the nutrients that make up our muscles and bones almost entirely come from soil," says Jerry Glover, a National Geographic Emerging Explorer and agroecologist at the U.S. Agency for International Development.
"This is, of course, very critical because we're supposed to be increasing agricultural production to feed and nourish some of the ten billion people, but it's at the same time that our soils are the thinnest and most nutrient depleted."
Here are five things you should know about soil.
1. Soil, like oil, is a finite resource.
Poor farming practices deplete soil nutrients faster than they are able to form, leading to loss of soil fertility and degraded lands. Glover compares it to the concerns that surround oil depletion.
"We still continue to harvest more nutrients than we replace in soil," he says. If a country is extracting oil, Glover points out, people worry about what will happen if the oil runs out. But they don't seem to worry about what will happen if we run out of soil. (Read "Our Good Earth" in National Geographic magazine.)
By 1991, an area bigger than the United States and Canada combined was lost to soil erosion—and it shows no signs of stopping. In fact, says Glover, native forests and vegetation are being cleared and converted to agricultural land at a rate greater than any other period in history. To restore soil in the United States to its pre-Columbian levels would take about 200 years.
2. Misusing soil can topple civilizations.
Modern examples of the impact of soil erosion are well-known: the Dust Bowl in the American and Canadian prairies, the erosion of China's Loess Plateau, the famine in Africa's Sahel. Ancient societies also reaped what they sowed when it came to their farming practices.
"The Romans still plowed themselves out of business, as did the Greeks, and Easter Islanders," says David Montgomery, who studies topography at the University of Washington in Seattle and is the author of Dirt: The Erosion of Civilizations.
On the flip side, few societies have actually taken care of their soil, he says. Inca terracing practices and agroforestry on the Polynesian island of Tikopia are on the short list of exceptions.
3. Good soil usage helps prevent droughts.
During recent droughts in the western U.S., farmers who used no-till practices—for example, not disturbing the soil through plowing—produced healthier crops, according to Montgomery. Soil conservation goes hand in hand with water conservation, he says; healthier soils retain more water.
The impact of poor soil use, meanwhile, goes beyond food production. Wind can carry thinned topsoil off fields and onto large bodies of water. Through a process known as eutrophication, the excess nutrients hasten plant growth and algae bloom, sucking up oxygen in the water and killing fish and other marine fauna.
"In the Gulf of Mexico, dead zones have developed during certain parts of the year," says Glover. "These are often prime fishing areas and prime biodiversity areas, now dead because of soil carried thousands of miles downstream."
4. High-tech makes a difference.
There has been improvement in soil conservation in the United States since the introduction of no-till and low-till farming, but reducing soil disturbance is not enough. The restoration of soil health, experts say, will require new practices and old-fashioned "soil husbandry."
Experts agree that healthy soil requires a marriage of ecology and technology, such as planting perennial strains of grain crops. Another approach: sophisticated farming systems that integrate crop production with native vegetation and livestock—a system that has successfully restored soils in northern Ethiopia, says Glover. (Related: "Why Tiny Microbes Mean Big Things for Farming.")
5. Soil is alive.
Chemical fertilizers, which replace three or four nutrients, are simply not enough to replace the complex system that is soil. They're "not a full health package," says Glover.
That's because soil is crawling with microbes and bugs, which nourish the soil. They help cycle nutrients in exchange for plant sugars. It's a symbiotic relationship that is the root of life, but we don't fully understand it, according to Montgomery.
"This is brand-new science. Over the past 30 years, there's been a big shift in our understanding of microbial connections and the community dynamics under the ground," he says. "It's the hidden half of nature."
Follow Linda Qiu on Twitter.
|
<urn:uuid:39f49192-b9c0-4b97-b3a6-250b48133b2d>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2014/12/141205-world-soil-day-soil-agriculture-environment-ngfood/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783391634.7/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154951-00055-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.958703
| 991
| 3.59375
| 4
|
Recovery of Forested Hilltops Impacted by Fire
Historically, southwestern ponderosa pine forests were open and park-like with large pine trees, a healthy grass cover on the forest floor, and a low abundance of small trees or underbrush. In addition, prior to Euro-American settlement (1870-1890), frequent, low-intensity fires occurred in these ecosystems every 2-20 years. Due to different human activities, exclusion of fire and lack of other disturbances, the historical structures of some of these forests has been greatly altered. Present day characteristics of these forests include: increased tree mortality, irruption of insects and diseases, a decrease in herbaceous plant and shrub quantity, and higher fuel loads. These conditions encourage fires that burn at intense and detrimental temperatures rather than more moderate temperatures which promote forest health. There is a lot of research being done to understand how restore these ecosystems back to their healthy historical structures.
My project will be focused on how wildfire severity affects the seeds buried in the soil and what consequences this has for vegetative regeneration in a southwestern Ponderosa pine forest. I will also be looking at the effects of soil erosion due to fire severity on the movement of seeds. The study area is located by the pueblo of Jemez, New Mexico in the Valles Caldera National Preserve and has recently experienced a fire (the Thompson Ridge Fire) of varying severities during the summer of 2013. The vegetation in the study area consists mostly of ponderosa pine forest, with smaller proportions of mixed conifer forests present on north-facing slopes and a variety of grasses and grass-like vegetation. Though numerous studies have characterized the soil seed bank in southwest ponderosa pine forests pre-fire and post fire, studies that have examined seed movement due to erosion, which could affect the regeneration of the vegetation, are lacking. The objectives of my study are to analyze how different fire severities and/or slopes affect how the soil seed bank in this ecosystem changes over time, the extent of post-fire erosion, how seeds are displaced due to post-fire erosion, and how these qualities and processes affect the regeneration of vegetation after a wildfire.
|
<urn:uuid:c70d25ac-f188-407b-967d-b71a9bde7dd5>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.utsa.edu/crts/usfs13/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783396455.95/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154956-00177-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.956245
| 439
| 3.421875
| 3
|
CHICAGO (AP) — Boy or girl? A simple blood test in mothers-to-be can answer that question with surprising accuracy at about seven weeks, a research analysis has found.
Though not widely offered by U.S. doctors, gender-detecting blood tests have been sold online to consumers for the past few years. Their promises of early and accurate results prompted genetics researchers to take a closer look.
They analyzed 57 published studies of gender testing done in rigorous research or academic settings — though not necessarily the same methods or conditions used by direct-to-consumer firms.
The authors say the results suggest blood tests like those studied could be a breakthrough for women at risk of having babies with certain diseases, who could avoid invasive procedures if they learned their fetus was a gender not affected by those illnesses. But the study raises concerns about couples using such tests for gender selection and abortion.
Couples who buy tests from marketers should be questioned about how they plan to use the results, the study authors said.
The analyzed test can detect fetal DNA in mothers' blood. It's about 95 percent accurate at identifying gender when women are at least seven weeks' pregnant — more than one month before conventional methods. Accuracy of the testing increases as pregnancy advances, the researchers concluded.
Conventional procedures, typically done for medical reasons, can detect gender starting at about 10 weeks.
The new analysis, published in Wednesday's Journal of the American Medical Association, involved more than 6,000 pregnancies. The testing used a lab procedure called PCR that detects genetic material — in this case, the male Y chromosome. If present in the mother's blood, she's carrying a boy, but if absent, it's a girl.
Tests that companies sell directly to consumers were not examined in the analysis. Sex-detection tests using mothers' urine or blood before seven weeks of pregnancy were not accurate, the researchers said.
Senior author Dr. Diana Bianchi, a reproductive geneticist and executive director of the Mother Infant Research Institute at Tufts Medical Center in Boston, called the results impressive. She noted that doctors in Great Britain are already using such testing for couples at risk of having children with hemophilia or other sex-linked diseases, partly to help guide treatment decisions.
The research indicates that many laboratories have had success with the test, but the results can't be generalized to all labs because testing conditions can vary substantially, said Dr. Joe Leigh Simpson, a genetics professor at Florida International University. He was not involved in the study.
Simpson noted that using gender-detection blood testing for medical or other reasons has not been endorsed by guideline-setting medical groups and some experts consider it experimental.
Dr. Lee Shulman, chief of clinical genetics at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, said the testing "isn't ready for prime time."
He said his hospital doesn't provide the blood tests, and doesn't offer more conventional techniques, including amniocentesis, to women who have no medical reason for wanting to know their baby's gender.
"I would have a lot of difficulties offering such a test just for gender identification. Gender is not an abnormality," Shulman said. "My concern is this is ultimately going to be available in malls or shopping centers," similar to companies offering "cute" prenatal ultrasound images.
Recent research found that increasing numbers of women in India who already have daughters are having abortions when prenatal tests show another girl, suggesting that an Indian ban on such gender testing has been ineffective. The expense of marrying off girls has contributed to a cultural preference there for boys.
Evidence also suggests that China's limits on one child per couple and traditional preference for male heirs has contributed to abortions and an increasingly large gender imbalance.
There's very little data on reasons for U.S. abortions or whether gender preferences or gender-detection methods play a role, said Susannah Baruch, a policy consultant for the Generations Ahead, an advocacy group that studies genetic techniques and gender issues.
Consumer Genetics Inc. a Santa Clara, Calif.-based company sells an "early gender" blood test called "Pink or Blue" online for $25 plus $265 or more for laboratory testing. It boasts of 95 percent accuracy, using a lab technique its scientists developed from the type of testing evaluated in the new analysis, said Terry Carmichael, the company's executive vice president.
Carmichael said the company sells more than 1,000 kits a year. He said the company won't test blood samples unless women sign a consent form agreeing not to use the results for gender selection.
The company also won't sell kits to customers in China or India because of fears of gender selection, he said.
Medical techniques that can detect gender include amniocentesis, usually done at around 16 weeks, using a needle to withdraw fluid surrounding the fetus to identify abnormalities; chorionic villus sampling, done at around the 10th week to detect abnormalities by examining placenta tissue; and ultrasound, most accurate at around 13 weeks. The first two methods can slightly increase risks for miscarriages.
|
<urn:uuid:cb0efc66-b165-4583-a0b6-7ca56378255a>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.syracuse.com/news/index.ssf/2011/08/boy_or_girl_a_simple_test_rais.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783402746.23/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624155002-00072-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.95557
| 1,043
| 2.6875
| 3
|
Cape Canaveral FL (SPX) Mar 2, 2011
The 45th Space Wing is set to launch an Atlas V Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle from Space Launch Complex 41 on March 4, 2011. The rocket will carry an Air Force X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle (OTV). The launch window for this Air Force mission opens at 3:39 p.m. EST.
The X-37B will provide a flexible space test platform to conduct various experiments and allow satellite sensors, subsystems, components and associated technology to be efficiently transported to and from the space environment where it will need to function.
earlier related report
Despite the secrecy of the X-37B's first mission, which lasted around 220 days, there are some things that are known for sure. We know that simply testing the spaceplane itself was a major goal of the first flight, and the vehicle seems to have performed well. The USAF was not shy about releasing photography and video of the X-37B's recovery in December 2010.
It was obvious that the vehicle had sustained no major damage from its long voyage, although it was later revealed that the spacecraft had received a few hits from space debris and blew a tire on landing. Apart from satisfying the curiosity of the public, this was a clear way of boasting to other nations that the spacecraft had succeeded in its main tests.
Further confirmation of this success came in early 2010, when it was confirmed that a second X-37B would fly in March 2010. This was a fairly rapid turnaround for a new vehicle. It suggested that no major gremlins had plagued the first mission, and no big changes were needed in the second vehicle.
We've seen plenty of photographs of the X-37B. We know its size and shape. We know a lot about its sub-systems, thanks to some cutaway diagrams. But the middle is a riddle.
The X-37B looks like a smaller version of the NASA Space Shuttle. Like its big brother, it has a payload bay in its centre with two clamshell doors.
The payload bay is small. It's only 2.1 metres by 1.2 metres in size. Some photography has been published of the payload bay with its actual payload inside, but the doors to the bay are always closed. We really don't know the contents of the payload bay for the first flight, or the second.
Artwork published before the first mission shows the vehicle in orbit, with its payload bay doors open. The spacecraft has deployed a small solar panel array on a mast. There's also a small telescope folded inside the payload bay on a mounting system. Radiators for heat are shown on the inside of the payload bay doors, just like the NASA shuttle. It all looks nice. Does this reflect what really lies inside?
Part of it is almost certainly true. The spacecraft could not remain in orbit for so long without a reliable source of electrical power. There would need to be a solar panel deployed from the payload bay, as statements about the vehicle have suggested. The panel depicted in the artwork looks realistic and could very well be an accurate depiction of the real thing. Similarly, the spacecraft needs radiators.
But what of the telescope? And what else is there inside the bay?
This author suggests that some form of antenna boom was also probably deployed. It's hard to see any structure in the artwork that resembles an antenna, either as a rod, dish or other structure. This is curious. Is there something we are not supposed to see? Perhaps some advanced type of antenna was used on this mission, and it cannot be revealed.
Alternatively, the spacecraft could have also been testing something exotic, like a laser communications system. This is speculation, but it cannot be disproved without evidence, and it's more plausible than some of the theories that have been circulated about the vehicle.
The idea of carrying a telescope inside the payload bay as a test for spy satellites is not as useful as it may seem. True, you can build a telescope, put it in the bay, test it, and bring it back. But is this really the best thing to fly in the bay?
There's a need to test new optical and optoelectronic systems. But there are probably cheaper and easier ways of doing this than flying a recoverable spacecraft.
You send the test article up on a small- scale satellite and see what sort of pictures you get back. That's exactly what happens on an operational mission. With few moving parts or volatile substances, these items are fairly mechanically stable. Recovering the test payload would produce little useful data for a considerable expense.
This sort of non-recoverable testing, all done remotely, is probably behind the recent launch of a small NRO satellite on a Minotaur rocket. The classified launch is probably a small, mundane satellite bus with a few new parts to test. The timing of this launch, sandwiched between two launches of the X- 37B, is interesting.
It demonstrates an openly stated policy within NRO of boosting investment in new technology. With plenty of launch options to choose from, only a payload that needed to be examined very carefully after flight would be placed aboard a recoverable spacecraft.
So what payloads are so important that they need to be taken up and brought back intact? In short, troublesome things that could fail, and have the potential to kill a large, expensive NRO intelligence- gathering satellite.
The payload bay of X-37B probably has a few small engineering cameras. These would confirm that the payload bay doors are open and the solar panel has unfurled. But that's probably all the optics this bird carries. Elsewhere in the bay, X-37B is probably road-testing batteries, power systems, electronics, mechanical shutters, and other mundane components that run NRO satellites.
There would be some telemetry to confirm that these things are working in space. But the real testing will come later, when engineers examine them on the ground. How have they degraded after such a long mission? Can a lifespan for these parts be extrapolated after several months in space?
It's possible that some components that flew on the first X-37B mission have been included on the second mission. This would allow the same component to be tested before flight, halfway through an extended test (at the end of the first mission) and after more than a year in space (at the end of the second mission). Such intensive testing would generate more useful data than a simple "before and after" experiment.
These suggestions could be wrong, but there are arguments to support them. Until more is revealed about what is actually carried aboard this spacecraft, nobody outside the program will really know.
Dr Morris Jones is an Australian space analyst and writer. Email morrisjonesNOSPAMhotmail.com. Replace NOSPAM with @ to send email.
Share This Article With Planet Earth
The webcast for the launch can be viewed here. Rocket Science News at Space-Travel.Com
SwRI Signs Up For 8 Reusable Suborbital Launches
Boulder, CO (SPX) Mar 2, 2011
Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) will send three scientists as payload specialists aboard eight suborbital flights - some to altitudes greater than 350,000 feet, above the internationally recognized boundary of space. No other organization has yet concluded contracts to fly its researchers in space aboard next-generation suborbital spacecraft. Also unique is the number of payload specia ... read more
NASA Earth observation satellite fails to reach orbit|
Russia Lacks Enough Carrier Rockets To Fulfill 2011 Launch Plans
NASA Assessing New Launch Dates For The Glory Mission
Successful Launch Of REXUS 9
'Oddly' shaped Mars crater is studied
Opportunity Hits The Road Again
Russia To Probe Major Planets Before 2023
Advanced NASA Instrument Gets Close-up On Mars Rocks
China Expects To Launch Fifth Lunar Probe Change-5 In 2017
The Great Moonbuggy Race
Venus And Crescent Moon Pair Up At Dawn
84 Student Teams Set to Roll At 18th Annual NASA Great Moonbuggy Race
Can WISE Find The Hypothetical Tyche In Distant Oort Cloud
Theory: Solar system has another planet
Launch Plus Five Years: A Ways Traveled, A Ways To Go
Mission To Pluto And Beyond Marks 10 Years Since Project Inception
Meteorite Tells Of How Planets Are Born In A Swirl Of Dust
Planet Formation In Action
'Missing' element gives planet birth clues
'Wandering' planets may have water, life
Weather scrubs launch of robot space plane
SwRI Signs Up For 8 Reusable Suborbital Launches
X-37B Set For Launch
Russia Grounds Launches Of Rokot Carrier Rocket
China setting up new rocket production base
China's Tiangong-1 To Be Launched By Modified Long March II-F Rocket
China Expects To Launch Fifth Lunar Probe Chang'e-5 In 2017
China's "Fantastic Four" Moon Plan
PS1 Telescope Establishes Near-Earth Asteroid Discovery Record
Record number of asteroids spotted
NASA Releases Images Of Man-Made Crater On Comet
Spectacular Flyby Of Comet Tempel 1 Tests Lockheed Built Spacecraft
|The content herein, unless otherwise known to be public domain, are Copyright 1995-2010 - SpaceDaily. AFP and UPI Wire Stories are copyright Agence France-Presse and United Press International. ESA Portal Reports are copyright European Space Agency. All NASA sourced material is public domain. Additional copyrights may apply in whole or part to other bona fide parties. Advertising does not imply endorsement,agreement or approval of any opinions, statements or information provided by SpaceDaily on any Web page published or hosted by SpaceDaily. Privacy Statement|
|
<urn:uuid:6cfee8c6-37b8-4cb1-9fb4-34fe188e5061>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.space-travel.com/reports/X_37B_Set_For_Launch_999.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783396106.25/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154956-00094-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.943756
| 2,028
| 2.546875
| 3
|
A network of subterranean chambers and galleries used for burial purposes by peoples of the ancient Mediterranean world, especially the early Christians.
By far the most important group of Catacombs are outside Rome. The origin of the name is unknown, but the cemetery under the Basilica of St. Sebastian on the Appian Way was called the Catacumbas. This was perhaps a place-name which in the course of time came to be applied to similar cemeteries. It could also have been derived from the Latin ad catacumbas, meaning at the hollows, a phrase that referred to the chambers at a hollow south of Rome.
The Romans at first buried their dead in family catacombs, which were excavated outside the city walls and protected by law, but later Romans preferred cremation. The Christians continued the practice of interring the dead in catacombs, which they called koimetaria, or sleeping places, to suggest that, for a Christian, death was merely sleep before resurrection. By the 3rd century the catacombs were administered by the church.
In its simplest form, a catacomb consisted of several underground galleries and chambers in a rectangular or grid plan. Loculi (recesses) were cut in the walls, one above another, to receive the bodies of from one to four family members. Persons of distinction were buried in stone coffins or carved sarcophagi placed in arched niches. The tombs of martyrs, usually in separate chambers, served as altars. As Christianity gained converts and burials multiplied, the catacombs were expanded into honeycombs of galleries. When one level was no longer sufficient, staircases were dug and a second, third, fourth, or even fifth level of galleries was excavated below. Many of the catacombs of prominent Christians were decorated with wall paintings depicting Christian symbols, such as the fish, lamb, and anchor, or with biblical scenes. Similar motifs were carved on tombs.
During times of persecution, the catacombs became places of refuge because burial places were sacrosanct by law. When churches above ground were destroyed by imperial order, worshipers met in the catacomb chapels. In the middle of the 3rd century, as mobs and officials began to violate the catacombs, Christians destroyed the old entrances and made secret ones. The persecution of the Christians came to an end with the conversion of the Roman emperor Constantine in the 4th century.
Soon after, Pope Damasus I began a monumental restoration of the catacombs. By the 5th century, however, all burials were transferred to surface cemeteries connected with churches. The catacombs, especially the tombs of martyrs, became places of pilgrimage. In the unsettled period when Rome suffered waves of barbarian invaders, the catacombs were filled in to prevent desecration, their entrances sealed, and the remains of the martyrs transported to places of safety. From the 16th century, abandoned catacombs were gradually restored by the Roman Catholic church.
This website is best viewed with the latest
Internet Explorer or
makes extensive use of
Flash and Scripting in its pages and interface. Make certain your browser
permissions are set
accordingly and that you have the latest
Flash plug-in for the full experience, proper look and accurate
layout. You can do it with confidence. This site does not contain any viruses, malicious software
Occultopedia is the genuine article, the
original and the best internet index of the extraordinary and uncanny,
shamelessly copied by many, but never equaled. Online since 1995 at first in a free web space provider
(Tripod.com), and in 1997 finally
with its own domain name and hosting Occultopedia still is the
principal online resource for those looking for the unexplained, the
curious and the unusual.
Occultopedia respects your privacy. As
such, no cookies or any other tracking software will be installed as a
part of this website's original programming. I do not seek to obtain any personal information
beyond what is volunteered through electronic communications
(e.g. emails & forms).
Occultopedia may appear to be a for profit site, but my site is
not in reality a commercial one. All of the commercial links are from affiliate
programs, and the little revenue I get from these is to pay for hosting,
bandwidth that can be quite costly if you have a lot of traffic, graphics and
pages and any other expenses related to Occultopedia's upkeep, support, and maintenance.
For more details, visit my
Occultopedia is a
resource available to the whole world. Usage of my word definitions and articles
by educational institutions, teachers and students alike, is here by granted.
Reproduction for profit, and for display in another web site is strictly
forbidden, and will be handled as copyright infringement and prosecuted to the
full extent of the law. However, if you follow
some simple guidelines,
I will grant permission for limited reproduction. For more information, please consult my
intellectual property rights, warranties and
disclaimers information page. Support Occultopedia and make it your
destination. If you prefer, you can also make a donation.
HELP FOOT THE BILL: this website
is created and maintained by one guy, who also pays the hosting bill.
Please donate if you like and/or use Occultopedia.
Participate in Occultopedia and submit a word
definition or article for the occult encyclopedia at my
page. If you would like to suggest a web site or page for
addition into Occultopedia's links database, please go to my
URL submission page.
|
<urn:uuid:09daa8f3-717d-41c3-bafa-bfb438c0ad1e>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.occultopedia.com/c/catacomb.htm
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783395679.92/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154955-00001-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.95283
| 1,206
| 3.984375
| 4
|
Drought curbs dreaded pest
Updated 7:59 pm, Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Texas' drought has left crops parched across the state, but the lack of water could have unintended benefits for South Texas farmers in one of the state's longest-running agricultural battles.
For the past two decades, the Texas Boll Weevil Eradication Foundation has conducted a program to eliminate the ubiquitous beetle, which punctures cotton pods to lay eggs that destroy the plant's yield.
By setting pheromone traps to detect weevils, spraying chemicals to eliminate them and changing farming practices to minimize reinfestation, the program has 15 of its 16 zones reporting no indication of boll weevils over the past year.
The exception has been in the Lower Rio Grande Valley, where tropical storms and even drug cartel activity have advanced the weevils' growth. But in the past year, weevil numbers have dropped precipitously, which some farmers hope is a death knell for the insect.
“It looks really good,” said Lindy Patton, the foundation's president. He said he was cautiously optimistic. There were fewer than 2,000 trapped weevils in the Valley in July, he said, compared with nearly 17,000 at the same time last year.
Part of the decline is attributable to the drought, which has hurt farmers but “reduced the food source” for weevils, Patton said. He stressed that the drought was not good news, “but overall, we think it's helped this year with being able to deal with fewer acres of cotton out there.”
The Valley is “the last stronghold for weevils,” said Charles Allen, an entomology professor at Texas A&M University and a former program director of the foundation. Despite the program's “rocky” past in the area, the new statistics “look really promising,” he added.
The rosy outlook belies a struggle to achieve statewide eradication that has persisted since the insect first crossed the border from Mexico about 1892, Allen said. For most of the 20th century, farmers fought against their failing yields.
By the early 1990s, “the boll weevil was literally ruining our cotton business,” said Woody Anderson, a Colorado City farmer and longtime advocate for the program. “It created a great deal of expense to try to control it with pesticides, and we could never eliminate the boll weevil by spraying individually.”
When the eradication program was proposed in 1993, farmers had mixed responses to the program's compulsory fees and strict growing schedules.
“A lot of them just quit,” said James Prinz, a Coupland cotton farmer who supports the program. “They had to have some teeth in the program to make it work.”
Prinz said Coupland hasn't seen weevils for four years thanks to the program, but the insect is stubbornly hanging on in South Texas.
Citing South Texas' tropical climate, Jimmy Dodson, a Nueces County farmer and president of the National Cotton Council, said the region is probably the nation's most challenging eradication area. There are no freezes that help kill off weevils, he said.
The climate also makes the area more prone to tropical storms, which can help weevils reinfest eradicated areas as they migrate with the wind, Patton said.
Drug gangs in Mexico have, in a way, also hindered eradication efforts.
“Farmers in Mexico are sometimes told not to go into their fields” when the cartels are operating in the area, which prevents consistent monitoring of the weevil population there, Dodson said.
Even if South Texas farmers emerge victorious in the weevil fight, planting cotton will still face challenges: among them, the same drought helping push the weevils out of the state.
This year, Prinz did not plant cotton on his farm for the first time in 35 years.
“Cotton is really drought-hardy because it can suck that moisture down deep, but you have to replace it,” he said. He said that after two years of drought, his nonirrigated farm lacks the moisture needed to grow a plentiful crop.
“I can't supplement the cotton” with profits from other crops, Prinz added. “It has to pay its own way.”
Yet Aaron Anderson, no relation to Woody Anderson, a Coupland farmer who initially opposed the program, still is growing cotton. “I've got to plant it to justify owning the equipment,” which can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, he added.
Still, Anderson said he had decreased his cotton acreage, “trying to cut back a little on expenses, too.”
Regardless, farmers agree that eradicating the weevil “is a much better life for everyone,” Dodson said.
“They wandered up here, and they caused a lot of misery for over 150 years,” he said. “It's time for them to be gone.”
|
<urn:uuid:3fc91f14-6887-4c2c-8626-b1ad8d63c43e>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.mysanantonio.com/business/local/article/Drought-curbs-dreaded-pest-4783982.php
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783398516.82/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154958-00124-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.966363
| 1,076
| 2.734375
| 3
|
A meteor estimated to be 10 tons by NASA exploded Friday morning over Russia's Ural region and its shockwave caused injuries to over 1,200 people. It took out windows and walls in the city of Chelyabinsk. And it temporarily shifted the conversation here on earth to talks of the heavens.
"We can find these objects, we can track their motions, and we can predict their orbits many years into the future," noted Robert Naeye of Sky and Telescope in an essay called, Lessons from the Russian Meteor Blast. "And in the unlikely event that we actually find a dangerous object on a collision course with Earth, we might actually be able to deflect it if given sufficient warning time. Now, every government in the world is keenly aware of the possibility of meteor explosions over its territory."
The Russian parliament is also keen on the idea. "Instead of fighting on Earth, people should be creating a joint system of asteroid defense," its affairs committee chief Alexei Pushkov wrote on his Twitter account late Friday. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin on Saturday proposed a global defense system to counter space threats.
And on CNN, Lawrence Krauss, professor of physics and director of the origin project, talked about how human technology has advanced to the point of predicting and, more interesting, deflecting oncoming meteorites that could cause the earth "significant damage."
"We have to think about it seriously," he said. "It's not science fiction. We can send a rocket out and land on [a meteor] or impact with it." If the meteor is far enough, "a small rocket running for a while [can cause] a small angular change... enough to have it miss the earth."
So welcome to the age of “empyrealization” -- an age of man's increasing awareness and interactions with the heavens. We grow cognizant that we exist on intimate levels with the rest of the universe, that we are interacting with it, and, increasingly, having an effect upon it as it does on us. The word – empyrealization -- doesn't exist yet in the dictionary, but for that matter neither did globalization, three decades ago.
Unlike the dinosaurs, we have, in effect, become active agents in changing our destiny. A giant meteor wiped out much of life on earth 65 million years ago because the dinosaurs didn't collectively create a missile shield to deflect the meteor. Humans, on the other hand, with our orbiting telescopes and space probes, and our growing awareness of the threat from space, can track large foreign objects coming from millions of miles away, and are talking about collectively deflecting those that could do us harm.
That man has changed his home planet is now well accepted. Long before the industrial revolution and the age of climate change, humans have significantly impacted earth, at least according to climate scientist William Ruddiman, in his book titled "Plows, Plagues, and Petroleum: How Humans Took Control of Climate.” There is significant evidence, he noted, that levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere have been rising since the earliest beginnings of agriculture. There is strong evidence, too, that a mini-ice age was averted some 5,000 years ago due to the rise in methane caused by the proliferation rice paddy agriculture in Asia.
Unlike our ancestors, however, increasingly we are aware that human actions have an impact on the entire planet and beyond.
The knowledge informed NASA's decision in September 2003 to crash the spacecraft Galileo on Jupiter rather than on Europa, one of Jupiter's 39 satellites. Europa has an ocean under its ice and active volcanoes to boot. It just might be supporting alien life. Jupiter, on the other hand, is very hot and gaseous and deemed incapable of life. Crashing Galileo on Europa would have risked contaminating it with microbes from earth.
In fact, we have been interacting with the heavens longer than most have thought. Think of it in term of radio waves. According to Adam Grossman: "Mankind has been broadcasting radio waves into deep space for about a hundred years now... That, of course, means there is an ever-expanding bubble announcing Humanity's presence to anyone listening in the Milky Way. This bubble is astronomically large (literally), and currently spans approximately 200 light years across."
Or think of it in terms of our orbiting trash. According to NASA, "More than 500,000 pieces of debris, or ‘space junk,’ are tracked as they orbit the Earth. They all travel at speeds up to 17,500 mph, fast enough for a relatively small piece of orbital debris to damage a satellite or a spacecraft."
While some of the junk falls back to earth, other bits exit into outer space. In other words, the cosmos might rain meteors on earth, but humans too have already interacted with the universe by sending manmade debris into space.
But more significantly, our rovers have been on Mars, roaming and digging, and studying its soil. China is planning a potential colony on the moon. And we have plenty of space probes that travel about in our solar system. Voyager 1, the first probe ever sent out, has gone past our solar system into deep space.
And all the while we map the universe, searching for planets that may be hospitable to life. Astronomers, in fact, have discovered hundreds of other solar systems, and 864 exo-planets so far -- planets that are outside our solar system. One planet in particular, 150 million light years away, is believed to have an atmosphere.
Clearly, our destiny is in outer space. Globalization is but child's play compared to empyrealization, when man now recognizes earth as existing in an open system with the rest of the cosmos and that he is interacting with, and increasingly, having an effect upon it.
But meanwhile there's the issue of falling meteorites. The one that exploded over Russia last Friday was undetected. There are several million asteroids that orbit the sun and less than 1 percent so far is tracked. If man's destiny is in space, man's home world needs to be protected for that destiny to be fulfilled.
The dinosaurs didn't' fare too well. We have a better chance. We've come by and large to accept that we changed the weather. Whether or not we can deflect a large meteor as in the Hollywood movie, Armageddon, remains to be seen. Brilliant minds are at work. And there’s nothing like an external threat to galvanize humanity.
Andrew Lam is an editor at New America Media. He is the author of "Perfume Dreams: Reflections on the Vietnamese Diaspora" (Heyday Books, 2005), which won a Pen American "Beyond the Margins" award, and "East Eats West: Writing in Two Hemispheres". His latest book, "Birds of Paradise Lost," a collection of short stories about Vietnamese immigrants struggling to rebuild their lives in the Bay Area after a painful exodus, was recently published by Red Hen Press. He has lectured and read his work widely at many universities.
ANCHORAGE, Alas. -- It’s almost as if the Affordable Care Act has disappeared behind some…
Editor’s Note: The suicide this week of actor and comedian Robin Williams seems to have…
The loss of the brilliant comedian Robin Williams has stunned the world and left many…
Robin Williams once joked that death is “nature’s way to let you know that your…
A hotline has been established in the District for physicians to immediately report suspected and…
Traduccion al español中文It's no secret that poverty is bad for your health. Now a new…
|
<urn:uuid:02ec0f8e-cc0e-47e1-836b-a21709bf1bb8>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://newamericamedia.org/2013/02/threat-from-space-is-real-but-man-stands-better-chance-than-the-dinosaurs.php
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397213.30/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00094-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.955491
| 1,585
| 2.984375
| 3
|
Manual Section... (3) - page: tempnam
NAMEtempnam - create a name for a temporary file
#include <stdio.h> char *tempnam(const char *dir, const char *pfx);
Feature Test Macro Requirements for glibc (see feature_test_macros(7)):
DESCRIPTIONThe tempnam() function returns a pointer to a string that is a valid filename, and such that a file with this name did not exist when tempnam() checked. The filename suffix of the pathname generated will start with pfx in case pfx is a non-NULL string of at most five bytes. The directory prefix part of the pathname generated is required to be "appropriate" (often that at least implies writable).
Attempts to find an appropriate directory go through the following steps:
- In case the environment variable TMPDIR exists and contains the name of an appropriate directory, that is used.
- Otherwise, if the dir argument is non-NULL and appropriate, it is used.
- Otherwise, P_tmpdir (as defined in <stdio.h>) is used when appropriate.
- Finally an implementation-defined directory may be used.
RETURN VALUEThe tempnam() function returns a pointer to a unique temporary filename, or NULL if a unique name cannot be generated.
- Allocation of storage failed.
CONFORMING TOSVr4, 4.3BSD, POSIX.1-2001. POSIX.1-2008 marks tempnam() as obsolete.
NOTESAlthough tempnam() generates names that are difficult to guess, it is nevertheless possible that between the time that tempnam() returns a pathname, and the time that the program opens it, another program might create that pathname using open(2), or create it as a symbolic link. This can lead to security holes. To avoid such possibilities, use the open(2) O_EXCL flag to open the pathname. Or better yet, use mkstemp(3) or tmpfile(3).
SUSv2 does not mention the use of TMPDIR; glibc will use it only when the program is not set-user-ID. On SVr4, the directory used under d) is /tmp (and this is what glibc does).
Because it dynamically allocates memory used to return the pathname, tempnam() is reentrant, and thus thread safe, unlike tmpnam(3).
The tempnam() function generates a different string each time it is called, up to TMP_MAX (defined in <stdio.h>) times. If it is called more than TMP_MAX times, the behavior is implementation defined.
tempnam() uses at most the first five bytes from pfx.
BUGSThe precise meaning of "appropriate" is undefined; it is unspecified how accessibility of a directory is determined.
SEE ALSOmkstemp(3), mktemp(3), tmpfile(3), tmpnam(3)
COLOPHONThis page is part of release 3.24 of the Linux man-pages project. A description of the project, and information about reporting bugs, can be found at http://www.kernel.org/doc/man-pages/.
This document was created by man2html, using the manual pages.
Time: 15:26:56 GMT, June 11, 2010
|
<urn:uuid:7ebce3e3-5c9f-4307-bf86-3f4792904738>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://linux.co.uk/documentation/man-pages/subroutines-3/man-page/?section=3&page=tempnam
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397111.67/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00066-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.797635
| 716
| 3.34375
| 3
|
The population of Greece in 2003 was estimated by the United Nations at 10,976,000, which placed it as number 72 in population among the 193 nations of the world. In that year approximately 17% of the population was over 65 years of age, with another 15% of the population under 15 years of age. There were 97 males for every 100 females in the country in 2003. According to the UN, the annual population growth rate for 2000–2005 is 0.14%, with the projected population for the year 2015 at 10,944,000. The population density in 2002 was 83 per sq km (215 per sq mi).
It was estimated by the Population Reference Bureau that 60% of the population lived in urban areas in 2001. The capital city, Athens, had a population of 3,112,000 in that year. Another major urban area is Thessaloniki with a metropolitan population of 1,083,000. According to the United Nations, the urban population growth rate for 2000–2005 was 0.4%.
|
<urn:uuid:6956873d-41a6-4fb0-8812-86258da39965>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.nationsencyclopedia.com/Europe/Greece-POPULATION.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783396100.16/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154956-00011-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.968362
| 211
| 3.140625
| 3
|
Enhancing motor harmony
Efficient automation systems translate into true energy savings. A major step in that direction has focused first on industrial electric motors because of their vast installed base and continuing growth. Researchers say 300 million industrial motors are running worldwide, with 20 to 30 million being added yearly.
Efficient automation systems translate into true energy savings. A major step in that direction has focused first on industrial electric motors because of their vast installed base and continuing growth. Researchers say 300 million industrial motors are running worldwide, with 20 to 30 million being added yearly. Potential energy savings amounts to 20-30%, via efficiency improvements, according to a presentation at IEEE's Oct. 2007 Industrial Energy Efficiency Workshop by Conrad U. Brunner. Brunner is director of A+B International, a Zurich, Switzerland-based consultancy.
Motor developments derive from different regional designs (50 and 60Hz supply, metric vs. inch dimensions, etc.), without significant coordination of standards or market transparency, explained Brunner. Also, various “efficiency testing methods commonly used deliver different values and absence of clear, unified labels makes it difficult for end users to choose the most appropriate motor.”
A significant initiative to promote energy-efficient motor systems worldwide and harmonize related standards—called Standards for Energy Efficiency of Electric Motor Systems (SEEEM)—was launched in June 2006 in London. More than 40 international representatives from industry/business organizations, governments, utilities, universities, and energy agencies support SEEEM. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) and the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) are current U.S. participants. “Global cooperative action is needed now to overcome barriers to wider deployment of energy-efficient motor systems, one of which is a lack of harmonization,” said Brunner, who also serves as coordinator for SEEEM.
Harmonizing test methods to ensure minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) for motors is a prime task. North American countries use a rigorous input/output testing method per IEEE standard 112 Method B, while European and Asian countries follow the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 60034-2 testing standard that originally overestimated efficiency values. This was due to assuming that additional stray-load losses are a fixed 0.5% of full load input power (constant over the whole range of motor sizes). Reduced testing cost and time was the motive.
A later IEC standard (61972) adopted an advanced test method compatible with IEEE 112B, but CENELEC (European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization) refused to adopt this standard in Europe, claiming additional equipment and labor costs. A compromise testing standard, IEC 60034-2-1, which includes methods of IEC 61972, IEEE 112B, and other refinements was published in Sept. 2007 for compliance.
Another notable SEEEM task addresses efficiency classes and promotes greater adoption of MEPS worldwide. IEC 60034-30 (2nd draft status, Aug. 2007) proposes four classes for motors in the 0.75-370 kW (1-500 hp) power range: IE1-standard; IE2-high efficiency; IE3-premium efficiency; and a future class, IE4-super premium efficiency. It harmonizes MEPS motors, such as EPAct, NEMA Premium, and Eff 1/Eff 2 into appropriate classes (see details in table online). IEC 60034-30 covers 60 Hz and 50 Hz motors, and offers mathematical formulas with efficiency curves to simplify usage. Publication is expected by end of 2008.
Beyond motors, SEEEM intends to focus on “core” motor systems (pumps, fans, and adjustable-speed drives), then on “total” motor systems—including heating/process systems, piping, and pumps—for even greater energy savings. That's the ultimate goal of standards harmonization. However, life-cycle cost analysis must play a greater role to overcome the barrier of higher initial cost.
The following table summarizes new proposed IEC efficiency classes for industrial motors worldwide, along with a timeline for adopting minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) by various countries.place before 2008. Double asterisks (**) correspond to passage of a new Energy Bill by the U.S. Congress in mid-December 2007 that includes the provision to lift motor MEPS to Premium efficiency within 3 years.
Harmonized Global Standards
Motor efficiency classification 2008
Sources: “International harmonization of motor standards saves energy,” presented by Conrad U. Brunner, A+B International, at IEEE Industrial Energy-Efficiency Workshop (Baltimore, MD, Oct. 2007) and Control Engineering.
Frank J. Bartos, P.E., is a Control Engineering consulting editor. Reach him at email@example.com .
- Events & Awards
- Magazine Archives
- Oil & Gas Engineering
- Salary Survey
- Digital Reports
Annual Salary Survey
Before the calendar turned, 2016 already had the makings of a pivotal year for manufacturing, and for the world.
There were the big events for the year, including the United States as Partner Country at Hannover Messe in April and the 2016 International Manufacturing Technology Show in Chicago in September. There's also the matter of the U.S. presidential elections in November, which promise to shape policy in manufacturing for years to come.
But the year started with global economic turmoil, as a slowdown in Chinese manufacturing triggered a worldwide stock hiccup that sent values plummeting. The continued plunge in world oil prices has resulted in a slowdown in exploration and, by extension, the manufacture of exploration equipment.
Read more: 2015 Salary Survey
|
<urn:uuid:e1b93175-f961-4bfa-b90c-52dd5622af5f>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.plantengineering.com/single-article/enhancing-motor-harmony/8a58dc55845040bb14222b68a53cabc6.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783400031.51/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624155000-00139-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.9074
| 1,171
| 2.671875
| 3
|
A breed of great antiquity, the Exmoor is one of the few breeds that looks very much the same today as they always have. They are believed to be the oldest pure descendants of the ponies that inhabited Britain some 100,000 years ago.
The oldest and purest of the native The exact area of their origin is unknown, but evidence points to somewhere in North America. In face, fossils show that an animal very similar to the Exmoor of today was widespread on a global level a million years ago. The belief is that some of these Animals were trapped in Alaska by ice barriers where they adapted to harsh weather & conditions.
Later the ponies crossed to the British Isles and roamed wild in pre-Celtic times where they were known to unsuccessfully cross with Celtic mares. Although no formal records were kept of their breeding, mention of them was recorded in 1086.
Not much was said about them until 1818, when the last warden of the Exmoor Royal Forest drove 400 of the ponies to his own lands. Later this became known as the anchor herd and has been family owned ever since. The remaining ponies were sold off – some back to family breeders with a keen interest in preserving the line.
The Exmoor Pony Society was formed in 1921 with the intention of preserving and improving the breed and they produced their first studbook in 1963. Through their isolated and harsh location and the dedication of family breeders and conservationists, this breed has changed very little from the animal that has roamed the earth for thousands of years.
Although they are frequently (& successfully) domesticated, these ponies are still wild animals of the Moor. They are raised wild and rarely interfered with by humans, only when it is necessary for conservation of the bloodlines.
11.2 – 12.3 hands
Summer coat is sleek but winter coat is a double layer to insulate from the elements
Hooded-eye – a heavy upper brow to protect eyes from the elements
Snow-chute- a collection of short, thick hairs at the top of the tail designed to channel rain away from the body.
Head is short, thick and clean cut
Eyes are large, wide apart & well-defined
Neck is wide
Chest is deep and wide
Back is broad and level
Legs are clean and short
Feet are neat & hard
Are bright and even tempered
Quick and surefooted
Fantastic jumping ability
Herding and agricultural use
Long distance pony
Exmoor Pony Products
|
<urn:uuid:ae9c4f0a-cab3-411b-9d6f-8f53b4ffd429>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.theequinest.com/breeds/exmoor-pony/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783393997.50/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154953-00189-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.97265
| 519
| 3.078125
| 3
|
Eastern Hemisphere at the beginning of the 7th century.
Eastern Hemisphere at the end of the 7th century.
7th century is the period from 601 to 700 in accordance with the Julian calendar in the Common Era. The Muslim conquests began with the unification of Arabia by Muhammad starting in 622. After Muhammad's death in 632, Islam expanded beyond the Arabian Peninsula under the Rashidun Caliphate (632–661) and the Umayyad Caliphate (661–750). The Islamic conquest of Persia in the 7th century led to the downfall of the Sassanid Empire. Also conquered during the 7th century were Syria, Palestine, Armenia, Egypt, and North Africa.
Byzantine Empire continued suffering setbacks during the rapid expansion of the Arab Empire.
Iberian Peninsula, the 7th century was the Siglo de Concilios, that is, century of councils, referring to the Councils of Toledo.
Harsha united Northern India, which had reverted to small republics and states after the fall of the Gupta Empire in the 6th century.
China, the Sui dynasty was replaced by the Tang dynasty, which set up its military bases from Korea to Central Asia, and was next to the Arabian later. China began to reach its height. Silla allied itself with the Tang Dynasty, subjugating Baekje and defeating Goguryeo to unite the Korean Peninsula under one ruler. The Asuka period persisted in Japan throughout the 7th century.
Pages of a late 7th century Quran
Silk cloth with four horsemen hunting lions, 7th century.
Islam begins in Arabia, the Qur'an is documented. The
world's population shrinks to about 208 million people. The
Anglo-Saxon Heptarchy emerges at the beginning of this century or the last in England.
Sutton Hoo ship burial, East Anglia (modern England).
Xuanzang traveled from China to India, before returning to Chang'an in China to translate Buddhist scriptures.
Timgad, Algeria, is destroyed by Berbers. End of sporadic Buddhist rule in the
Croats enter their present territory early in the 7th century, settling in six distinct tribal delimitations.
Teotihuacan is sacked. The political and religious buildings are burned. The religion of
Shugendo evolves from Buddhism, Taoism, Shinto and other influences in the mountains of Japan. The
Bulgars arrive in the Balkans; establishment of the powerful Bulgarian Empire.
Arab traders penetrate the area of Lake Chad. Earliest attested
English poetry. Side panels,
Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe, are made. Main compound,
Horyu-ji, Nara Prefecture, is built. Asuka period. 7th and 9th century – Mosaics above apse,
Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe, are made.
600: Smallpox spreads from India into Europe.
602: The Third Chinese domination of Vietnam starts following the collapse of the Early Lý dynasty.
603: Last mention of the Roman Senate in Gregorian Register. It mentions that the senate acclaimed the statues of emperor Phocas and empress Leontia.
606: Boniface elected papal successor on the death of Pope Sabinian. He sought and obtained a decree from Byzantine Emperor Phocas which stated that "the See of Blessed Peter the Apostle should be the head of all the Churches". This ensured that the title of "Universal Bishop" belonged exclusively to the Bishop of Rome.
607: Hōryū-ji temple believed to have been completed by 607 in Ikaruga, Japan.
610: Heraclius arrives by ship from Africa at Constantinople, overthrows East Roman Emperor Phocas and becomes Emperor. His first major act is to change the official language of the East Roman Empire from Latin to Greek (already the language of the vast majority of the population).
615: The Sassanid Empire under Shah Khosrau II sacks Jerusalem, taking away the relic of the True cross.
615: Pacal the Great becomes king of the Mayan city-state of Palenque
616: Shah Chosroes II invades Egypt.
616: Aethelfrith of Northumbria defeats the Welsh in a battle at Chester in England.
618: Tang Dynasty of China initiated by Li Yuan.
618: The Chenla kingdom completely absorbed Funan.
Guangzhou, China, becomes a major international seaport, hosting maritime travelers from Egypt, East Africa, Arabia, Persia, India, Sri Lanka, and South East Asia, including Muslims, Jews, Hindus, and Nestorian Christians.
622: Year one of the Islamic calendar begins, during which the Hijra occurs—Muhammad and his followers emigrate from Mecca to Medina in September.
623: The Frankish merchant Samo, supporting the Slavs fighting their Avar rulers, becomes the ruler of the first known Slav state in Central Europe.
626: The Avars and the Persians jointly besiege but fail to capture Constantinople.
627: Emperor Heraclius defeats the Persians, ending the Roman-Persian Wars.
629: The Byzantine-Arab Wars begin. Much of the Roman Empire is conquered by Muslim Arabs led by Khalid ibn al-Walid.
629– 630: Emperor Taizong's campaign against Eastern Tujue, Chinese Tang Dynasty forces under commanders Li Jing and Li Shiji destroy the Göktürk Khanate.
632: The Muslim conquests begin.
635- 649: Alopen, a Persian Christian priest introduces Nestorian Christianity into China.
636: Around this time the Battle of al-Qādisiyyah resulted in a decisive victory for Muslims in the Islamic conquest of Persia, the Persian Empire is conquered by Muslim Arabs led by Sad Ibn Abi Waqqas.
638: Emperor Taizong (627-649) issues an edict of universal toleration of religions; Nestorian Christians build a church in Chang'an.
638: Muslim conquest of Palestine.
639: Muslim conquest of Egypt and Armenia.
639: Unsuccessful revolt of Ashina Jiesheshuai of the Turkic people against Tang China.
641: The Coptic period, in its more specific definition, ends when Islam is introduced into Egypt.
642: Library of Alexandria destroyed again.
649- 683: Chinese Emperor Gaozong permits establishment of Christian monasteries in each of 358 prefectures.
650: The Khazar-Arab Wars begin.
Mid-7th century – Durga Mahishasura-mardini (Durga as Slayer of the Buffalo Demon), rock-cut relief,
Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu, India, is made. Pallava period. It is now kept at Asian Art Archives, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Mid-7th century - Portrait of Lord Pacal, from his tomb,
Temple of the Inscriptions, Palenque, Mexico, is made. Maya culture. It is now kept at Museo Nacional de Antropologia, Mexico City. c. mid-7th century – Dharmaraja Ratha,
Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu, India, is built. Pallava period.
651: Emperor Yazdgerd III is murdered in Merv, ending the rule of Sassanid dynasty in Persia ( Iran).
656– 661: The First Islamic civil war.
657: The Chinese Tang Dynasty under Emperor Gaozong of Tang defeats Western Turkic Kaganate.
658: Two Chinese monks, Zhi Yu and Zhi You, reconstruct the 3rd century south-pointing chariot mechanical compass-vehicle for Emperor Tenji of Japan.
661: Caliph Ali ibn Abi Talib is assassinated. His successor Hasan ibn Ali abdicated the Caliphate to Muawiyah I, marking the beginning of the Umayyad caliphate.
663: The Tang Dynasty of China and Korean Silla Kingdom gain victory against the Korean Baekje Kingdom and their Yamato Japanese allies in the naval Battle of Baekgang.
664: Conquest of Kabul by Muslims.
664: A Tang dynasty Chinese source written by I-tsing, mentioned about Holing ( Kalingga) kingdom, located somewhere in the northern coast of Central Java.
668: The end of the Goguryeo-Tang Wars, as Goguryeo fell to a joint attack by Tang China and Unified Silla of Korea, the latter of which held the former Goguryeo domains.
670: In 670 an Arab Muslim army under Uqba ibn Nafi entered the region of Ifriqiya. In the late 670s conquest of North Africa was completed.
671: I-tsing visited Srivijaya and Malayu in Sumatra and Kedah in Malay peninsula on his way to Nalanda, India.
674: The first Arab siege of Constantinople begins.
677: Most of the Arab fleet is destroyed by Greek fire; the Persian crown prince flees to the T'ang court.
680: Decisive victory of the Bulgars over the Byzantines in the Battle of Ongal.
680: Battle of Karbala took place near Kufa, which resulted in the death of Husayn ibn Ali and the division of Muslim community.
681: Bulgaria is recognized as independent country by the Byzantine Empire.
682: Revival of the Turkic Khaganate by the efforts of Ilterish Qaghan and Tonyukuk
683: Dapunta Hyang Sri Jayanasa performed Siddhayatra as the journey to expand his influence. The event mentioned in several inscriptions such as Telaga Batu inscription, Talang Tuwo inscription and Kedukan Bukit Inscription. The beginning of Srivijaya hegemony over the maritime region around Malacca strait and Sunda Strait.
683– 685: The Second Islamic civil war.
686: Srivijaya launch a naval invasion of Java, which is mentioned in Kota Kapur Inscription. This likely contributed to the end of Tarumanagara kingdom.
687: I-tsing returned to Srivijaya in on his way back from India to China. In his record he reported that the Kingdom of Malayu was captured by Srivijaya.
688: Emperor Justinian II of the Byzantine Empire defeats the Bulgarians.
690: Pro-Buddhist imperial consort Wu Zetian seizes power and rules as Empress of China
691: Buddhism is made the state religion of China
694: Hispano- Visigothic king Egica accuses the Jews of aiding the Muslims, and sentences all Jews to slavery.
698: The Arabs capture Carthage from the Byzantine Empire.
698: Active but unofficial anti-Christian persecution begins in China
698: North South States Period begins in Korea.
700: The Mount Edziza volcanic complex erupts in northern British Columbia, Canada.
700: The Sumatra-based Srivijaya naval kingdom flourishes and declines. (to 1500)
700: Wet-field rice cultivation, small towns and kingdoms flourish. Trade links are established with China and India.
700: The Sojomerto inscription, possibly dated around late 7th century, is discovered in Batang, Central Java. It mentions Dapunta Selendra, possibly the ancestor of Sailendra dynasty. The inscription was written in Old Malay, suggesting a Srivijayan link to this family.
Significant people [ edit ]
Abu Bakr, first caliph of Islam
Ælfflæd of Whitby
Aethelbert, King of Kent
Æthelburg of Faremoutiers
Æthelburg of Kent
Ali ibn Abi Talib ( 600– 661), cousin of Muhammad, fourth caliph of Islam, first Shi'a Imam
Anna of East Anglia
Antara Ibn Shaddad, Arab poet The
Unknown Archont led the Serbs to the Balkans from the north
Asparuh— Khan of the Bulgars and founder of contemporary Bulgaria
Augustine Eriugena, Irish scientist
Benjamin I, Coptic patriarch of Alexandria during the Islamic Conquest of Egypt
Bertha of Kent
Brahmagupta, Indian mathematician
Cædmon, English poet
Cenn Fáelad mac Aillila, Irish scholar, died 679
Chan Imix K'awiil (628–695) 12th Ajaw of Copan
Dae Jo-yeong, founder of Korean Balhae
Emperor Gaozong of Tang (r. 649- 683), China
Gregory the Great, ( 540– 604), Theologian, Pope, Civil Administrator of Rome
Heraclius—Warrior Emperor of Byzantium who won numerous victories against the Sassanids (Persians)
Hilda of Whitby, (c. 614–680)
Huineng, (638-713) sixth and last Patriarch of Chán Buddhism
Ilterish Qaghan founder of the second Turkic Khaganate
Isaac of Nineveh (d 700) Nestorian Christian theologian
Khalid ibn al-Walid ( 592– 642), Muslim Arab military commander who defeated the Roman and Persian empires in over eighty battles
Kumarila Bhatta, philosopher and Vedic exegete.
Li Jing, Chinese general who conquered the Eastern Turkic Khaganate and defeated the Tuyuhun Kingdom
Li Shiji, Chinese general and later prime minister
Muhammad ( 570– 632), final prophet in Islamic religion
Narasimhavarman, Pallava Dynasty, Tamil Nadu
Pacal the Great, ruler of Maya state of Palenque
Pulakeshin II, fourth ruler of the Chalukya Dynasty in India
Rædwald of East Anglia
Sambandar, Saiva poet-saint of Tamil Nadu
Seaxburh of Ely
Sigeberht of East Anglia
Su Dingfang, a general of the Chinese dynasty Tang Dynasty who succeeded in destroying the Western Turkic Khaganate
Emperor Taizong of Tang ( 599– 649), China
Tirunavukkarasar, Indian poet (late 6th century-mid-7th century)
Tong Yabgu, leader of the Western Turks and the probable founder of the Khazar Khaganate
Umar, second caliph of Islam
Uthman, third caliph of Islam
Wu Zetian, the only woman in the history of China to assume the title of Empress Regnant (Huangdi)
Yeon Gaesomun, Generalissimo of Korean Goguryeo
Inventions, discoveries, introductions [ edit ]
Decades and years [ edit ]
References [ edit ]
^ The good and bad of a population drop
^ a b c d e Roberts, J: "History of the World.". Penguin, 1994.
^ Jeffrey Richards. The Popes and the Papacy in the Early Middle Ages, 476–752
^ Drs. R. Soekmono, (1988) . Pengantar Sejarah Kebudayaan Indonesia 2 , 2nd ed. (5th reprint ed.). Yogyakarta: Penerbit Kanisius. p. 37.
^ Junjiro Takakusu, (1896), A record of the Buddhist Religion as Practised in India and the Malay Archipelago AD 671–695, by I-tsing, Oxford, London.
^ Soekmono, R, Drs., Pengantar Sejarah Kebudayaan Indonesia 2, 2nd ed. Penerbit Kanisius, Yogyakarta, 1973, 5th reprint edition in 1988 p.38
^ Soekmono, R, Drs., Pengantar Sejarah Kebudayaan Indonesia 2, 2nd ed. Penerbit Kanisius, Yogyakarta, 1973, 5th reprint edition in 1988 p.39
^ Buddhist Monks Pilgrimage of Tang Dynasty
^ Taylor (2003), pp. 22–26; Ricklefs (1991), p. 3.
^ Taylor (2003), pp. 8–9, 15–18
^ Boechari (1966). "Preliminary report on the discovery of an Old Malay inscription at Sojomerto". MISI III: 241–251.
|
<urn:uuid:e9a82307-aa2b-4de7-8838-5fc76433517a>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.mashpedia.com/7th_century
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397696.49/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00096-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.887281
| 3,517
| 3.296875
| 3
|
US brewers have now taken up their case against fracking, worried that any potential contamination of ground water supplies would ruin their business. The process of brewing beer requires clean water, with many breweries being built at the sites they are specifically for the mineral composition of the water.
Simon Thorpe, the CEO of the Ommegang Brewery explained to NBC that “it’s all about the quality of the water. The technology surrounding fracking is still not fully developed. Accidents are happening. Places are getting polluted.” His brewery was built in Cooperstown, NY, due to the ready access to fresh water, but “if that water supply is threatened by pollution, it makes it very difficult for us to produce world-class beer here.”
Related article: Why the World May Never Experience a Shale Boom
Simon is worried as local landowners are trying to sell leases of their land to companies for the exploration and extraction of natural gas. Jennifer Huntington, a dairy farmer in the area assured that they are only offering such leases due to their confidence of the safe nature of fracking. “We all love this area, none of us want to see it ruined,” she said.
Purification equipment at the Ommegang Brewery can filter sediment from the water, and alter the pH levels, but it cannot remove some of the chemicals that could potentially enter the water table via fracking, such as benzene, methane, and possibly diesel. If any such chemicals do enter the water supply then the brewery will have to import its water from elsewhere, or close the brewery completely.
Brooklyn Brewery, also in the state of NY, is equally worried and asks for state authorities to protect their water supply.
By. Joao Peixe of Oilprice.com
|
<urn:uuid:cc2c68bc-70ee-49f3-bd9d-e0cee3176b4e>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://oilprice.com/Energy/Natural-Gas/US-Breweries-go-to-War-against-Fracking-Industry.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783396100.16/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154956-00078-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.973145
| 362
| 2.578125
| 3
|
This page would ideally always be under construction. You are invited to contribute.
This section should be very brief. Click the "edit" link to edit or add content to this section. →
This section is for detailed discussion such as the meaning of a symbol, how a doctrinal point is developed throughout a passage, or insights that can be further developed in the future. Contributions may range from polished paragraphs down to a single bullet point. The focus, however, should always be on understanding the scriptural text consistent with LDS doctrine. Click the "edit" link to edit or add content to this section. →
- Mark 3:10: Plagues. The Greek word translated in verse 10 as "plagues" is mastix, which (in different contexts) can refer to a whip or scourge. In this context it is probably best translated as "serious diseases." The word can be used to refer to a calamity or illness that is sent by God as a punishment, although there is nothing in the context to indicate that is what is meant here.
- Mark 3:12. Jesus in verse 12 again orders the unclean spirits not to let people know who is is. This may be because the sheer numbers of people thronging after Jesus have become something of a problem.
- Mark 3:14: Ordained. The Greek verb translated as "ordained" in verse 14 (poieo) doesn't suggest a formal ordination as we would normally use that word today. The root verb is a very common verb that basically means "to make" or "to do," so how the word is translated into English depends a lot on the context. A very literal translation of this verse, then, would have Jesus "making" the twelve. Modern translations generally say that Jesus "appointed" or "selected" twelve.
- It is interesting to note, though, that some Greek manuscripts include a phrase to indicate that Jesus named the twelve as apostles. So the idea that the twelve were selected to some sort of a formal position isn't foreign to this section of the Greek manuscripts.
- Some manuscripts mention the selection of the twelve in verse 16 instead of here in verse 14, or in addition to verse 14.
- Mark 3:14: Apostles. See Luke 6:13 for some discussion of the differences between the several accounts of the apostolate.
- Mark 3:21: Friends. The word translated as "friends" in verse 21 comes from a Greek word (para) meaning "by" or "close to." Some modern translations use "family" or "kinsmen" here. The difference is probably unimportant; the point is that the people close to Jesus thought he was crazy.
- Mark 3:21. The theme of verse 21 is repeated in Mark 6:4, when Jesus says that a prophet is without honor among his own kin and in his own country.
- Mark 3:31-35. Jesus very dramatically makes his point here, even at the risk of seeming rude to his biological family. This section is reminiscent of Luke 2:49, where Jesus seems to be unconcerned that his family was worried about him while he went about his Father's business.
- Mark 4: Three parables. This chapter has three parables dealing with the planting of seeds (beginning in verse 3, verse 25 and verse 30), which appear to represent the Gospel. It is interesting to note that in all of these parables, the seeds grow (or not) independently of the person who originally planted the seed. This is made explicit here in verse 27: "he knoweth not how." In the first parable, the emphasis is on where the seed is planted; in the second two, it is on the power of the seed.
- Mark 4:1-9: Seeds. Other places in Scripture where seeds are used as a symbol of the Gospel are Isaiah 55:10 and Alma 32:30. This chapter in Mark also includes two other parables using the image of a seed, beginning in Mark 4:26 and Mark 4:30.
- Mark 4:9: Let him hear. The verb translated "let him hear" is in the third-person imperative in Greek, a verb form that has no direct equivalent in English. The translation should probably a bit stronger: "he who has ears to hear, may he hear" or (less literally) "he who has ears to hear should do so."
- Mark 4:11: Mystery. The English word "mystery" in verse 11 comes from the Green word musterion used here. The meaning of the Greek word has to do more with something being secret rather than something being baffling, so the verse suggests that the kingdom of God can be known through revelation rather than that it is difficult to understand.
- Mark 4:19: Lusts. The Greek word translated as "lusts" in verse 19 (epithumia) doesn't necessarily refer to sexual desires.
- Mark 4:21: Bushel. The Greek word translated "bushel" (modios) is a dry measurement of about 8 or 9 liters. In this context, the word could also be translated as "basket" or "bowl."
- Mark 4:21: Candle. The Greek word translated "candle" (luchnos) can also be translated as "lamp," and in some verses (such as Matthew 6:22) it is translated somewhat figuratively as "light." The Greek word is a distant cousin of English words such as "light," "elucidate" and "luminous."
- Mark 4:22: Come abroad. The phrase translated as "come abroad" uses the Greek word phaneros, which refers to the act of making something known.
- Mark 4:34. Verse 34 is reminiscent of verse 11: To those on the outside, the parables don't make much sense. But the truth was revealed to Jesus' disciples.
- Mark 4:39: Be still. The Greek word translated as "be still" (phimoo) carries with it the idea of muzzling or holding something in check. The emphasis here is on the power that Jesus had over nature.
- Mark 5:1. By crossing the Sea of Galilee, Jesus entered Gentile territory. Mark's inclusion of this story is an indication that the Gospel isn't intended for Jews only.
- Mark 5:9: Legion. The Greek name given in verse 9 as Legion (legeon) is the word for a military unit. According to the American Heritage Dictionary, a legion of the Roman army consisted of 3,000 to 6,000 infantry troops and 100 to 200 cavalry troops. The use of this word suggests that there is a spiritual battle going on.
- Mark 5:13: Gave them leave. The phrase translated as "gave them leave" means that Jesus allowed the demons to leave, or that he gave them permission.
- Mark 5:19: Publicity. Jesus's instructions that the man should tell people what had happened is in contrast to earlier miracles in the Gospel of Mark, where Jesus tells people to be silent.
- Mark 5:23, 28: Heal and make whole. The verb (sozo) that is used for "heal" in verse 23 is the same verb as is used for "to make whole" in verse 28. The same verb also can mean "to save." The verb (sozo) that is used for "heal" in verse 23 is the same verb as is used for "to make whole" in verse 28. The same verb also can mean "to save."
- Mark 5:34. This verse suggests that faith isn't a one-time event. Jesus tells the woman that her faith has healed her, and then he tells her to go in peace and continue to be healed. The suggestion is that she has the option to lose her faith and thus her healing, or that she could decide not to accept the gift of health she has been given.
- Mark 5:36. Verse 5:36 seems to suggest that fear and belief are incompatible, at least in this context. See Morm 9:27 for incompatibility of doubt and belief; see 1 Jn 4:18 for incompatibility of fear and love.
- Mark 6:1, 4: Own country. The Greek word translated as "own country" in verses 1 and 4 is patris, which could be translated more literally as "fatherland." (The word is a distant cousin of English words such as "patriotic" and "patriarch.") In verse 1, it presumably refers to Nazareth, where Jesus grew up as a boy.
- Mark 6:3: Offended. The Greek verb translated as "offended" is skandalizo (the source of the English word "scandalize"). It can mean to offend, as it usually is translated in the New Testament, or it can mean to put a stumbling block or impediment in a person's way, to frustrate someone. In this context, it may be saying that the people felt put off by him because they were unable to reconcile his wisdom with his ordinariness.
- Mark 6:1-6: No miracle in Nazareth. In the preceding portions of the narrative, Jesus is able to perform miracles as people believed. In Nazareth, where most people didn't believe, he was mostly unable to perform miracles (verse 5). So far in the Gospel of Mark, belief seems to be a precondition for miraculous healing.
This section is for questions along the lines of "I still don't understand ..." Please do not be shy. The point of these questions is to identify things that still need to be addressed on this page. Click the "edit" link to edit or add content to this section. →
- Mark 3:29. What does it mean to "blaspheme against the Holy Ghost"?
- Mark 5:34. Healed by faith. Why does Jesus tell the woman that her faith has healed her (verse 34), rather than that the power of God has healed her?
- Mark 5:41. Why does Mark report Jesus' actual words in Aramaic in verse 41?
- Mark 5:43. Give her something to eat. The fact that Jesus told people to make sure that the girl had something to eat indicates that he saw her as a person with multiple needs, not just as someone who needed healing.
Prompts for life application
This section is for prompts that suggest ways in which a passage can influence a person's life. Prompts may be appropriate either for private self reflection or for a class discussion. Click the "edit" link to edit or add content to this section. →
Prompts for further study
This section is for prompts that invite us to think about a passage more deeply or in a new way. These are not necessarily questions that beg for answers, but rather prompts along the lines of "Have you ever thought about ..." Prompts are most helpful when they are developed individually, thoughtfully, and with enough background information to clearly indicate a particular direction for further study or thought. Click the "edit" link to edit or add content to this section. →
- Mark 4:1-41. Suppose that each of these parables (the parable of the sower, of the candle under a bushel, of the seed growing secretly, and of the mustard seed) is a parable that teaches us about the church. Do they all teach the same thing? If so, what is it? If not, what does each teach? Why are these four parables followed by the story of Jesus stilling the winds and waves? What does the latter event have to do with those parables?
This section is for listing links and print resources, including those that are also cited elsewhere on this page. A short comment about the particular strengths of a resource can be helpful. Click the "edit" link to edit or add content to this section. →
- Mark 4:1-9. N. T. Wright (The Challenge of Jesus: Rediscovering Who Jesus Was and Is 40-41), argues that those living at Jesus’ time would have understood the parable of the sower as a description of the judgment of Israel similar to Isaiah 6 (and, therefore, also to Jacob 5)
- Mark 4:12: Secrecy in the Gospel of Mark. See this post by RobertC at the Feast blog for a discussion of how this verse might be interpreted in light of the secrecy motif in the Gospel of Mark.
- Mark 5:25-34. Anne C. Pingree, "To Look, Reach, and Come unto Christ," Ensign, Nov 2006, pp. 113–15. "I have asked myself what might have happened if this woman with the issue of blood had not believed in the Savior enough to make whatever effort was necessary to touch the border of His robe. In that throng I imagine getting even that close to Him took some doing. Yet, nothing wavering, she persisted. In like manner, we must demonstrate that faith in the Lord has penetrated our hearts deeply enough to move us to action."
- Mark 5:41-43: Use of Aramaic. See Counter Arguments to Aramaic Primacy to see how New Testament Aramaic expressions are used to strengthen the position that the original New Testament was written in Greek, not Aramaic as some claim.
Footnotes are not required but are encouraged for factual assertions that average readers cannot easily evaluate for themselves (such as the date of King Solomon’s death or the nuanced definition of a Greek word). In contrast, insights rarely benefit from footnoting, and the focus of this page should always remain on the scriptures themselves rather than what someone has said about them. Links are actively encouraged on all sections of this page, and links to authoritative sources (such as Strong's Bible Concordance or the Joseph Smith Papers) are preferable to footnotes.
|
<urn:uuid:ebecdaf6-a5d7-4f9c-9f96-fa63c20bec8f>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://feastupontheword.org/Mark_3:11-15
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783403826.29/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624155003-00098-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.961575
| 2,901
| 2.9375
| 3
|
June 26th, 2008What is AVI?
In a nutshell, AVI is one of the most popular video file formats. But there’s more to it than might seem at the first look – AVI (or Audio Video Interleave),is actually a multimedia “container format”. AVI files can contain both audio and video data (multiple tracks supported) in a file container that allows synchronous audio-with-video playback. The audio/video can be encoded with a various diverse codecs and quality.
The AVI format was introduced by Microsoft in November 1992 as part of its Video for Windows technology. Most AVI files also use the file format extensions developed by the Matrox OpenDML group in February 1996. These files are supported by Microsoft, and are unofficially called “AVI 2.0”.
While the AVI format is very popular, it’s not the best format for large videos. When AVI is used to store video in popular MPEG-4 codecs (e.g. Xvid and DivX) the files turn out bloated and larger than necessary. Other container formats, like Ogg and MP4, are more efficient.
|
<urn:uuid:f6710e9f-3714-408b-b1ea-dc3a36d368c8>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://convertflvtoavi.com/what-is-avi/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397562.76/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00196-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.926525
| 249
| 2.78125
| 3
|
Rock'n'Roll is a cheerful, fast and sporting dance that is oriented on the spectators reactions. It is characterized by high precision movements in high speed and the fluid combination of dance and spectacular acrobatics. Characteristic for Rock'n'Roll are the jumped basic step with kicks and kick-ball-change as well as acrobatic dance steps. Rock'n'Roll is danced straight, kicks and arm movements stand in a clearly recognizable, regular angle to each other. The dancers dance almost exclusively on the foot bale, with exception of the acrobatic steps, which the gentleman performes in a stable state. Movements are carried out characteristically quick and dynamical, arms and legs are involved in same way.
Rock'n'Roll is danced in 4/4-time with 44 to 52 beats per minute to music, that shows characteristically a clear Offbeat. In contrast to the Offbeat of the music, the dance is emphasized on beats 1 and 3.
Past and Present
Three music styles had a main influence in the evolution of Rock'n'Roll: Jazz, Country & Western, Rhythm & Blues. The term Rock'n'Roll appeared when in 1954 the American disc jockey Alan Freed sang the refrain "Rock, rock, rock everybody - roll, roll, roll everybody", with the title "Rock-a-beatin´ Boogie" by the "Treniers". The breakthrough was achieved by Bill Haley and the Comets with the song "Rock around the clock", recorded on April, 12th 1954.
With Rock'n'Roll not only a new music style was born, Rock'n'Roll had a formative influence on an entire generation: a new life feeling evolved, causing conflicts between young people and the generation of their parents. Sometimes Rock'n'Roll was marked as an 'ape dance' and the followers of this music named to be savage or ferocious mad. In the Germany of the economic miracle, the fans of Rock'n'Roll were called "Halbstarke", in England they were named "Teddy Boys".
Like each new lifestyle, Rock'n'Roll had a lot of influence on fashion as well. Tube jeans, ringlet socks, pointed shoes, large sports jackets and velvet ties were all the rage for boys. The hair was combed backwards with hair cream. The girls wore broad belts, wore petticoats under their wide skirts and wore their hair pony tail fashion, merrily rocking in time.
In dancing schools, Rock'n'Roll was disapproved of for a long time. Rock'n'Roll was danced with devotion in discotheques and dusky bars. With this dance hype numerous dancing contests were established, where the winners were judged by a panel of celebrity judges or by the intensity of the spectators applause. In 1961 the first world championships tool place in Switzerland, but the temporary end of the Rock'n'Roll wave was near. With Twist and Beat new Modern Dances came to be and in the audience's favour, the Beatles and the Rolling Stones took Elvis Presley's and Jerry Lee Lewis' place.
In the beginning of the seventies, Rock'n'Roll had a comeback - in 1975 the German Rock'n'Roll federation was founded, turning the dance in a well-ordered way. The jump step, which is compulsory at dancing competitions since then, altered Rock'n'Roll from a life style to a type of sport. But the fascination of the music remained, even when new songs in 4/4-time replaced the songs of Bill Haley or Chuck Berry.
|
<urn:uuid:2dda75eb-4c69-4e12-89c9-4417bfb94c3c>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.anidance.de/en/he5f.htm
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397428.37/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00170-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.960162
| 740
| 2.640625
| 3
|
Anabolic Protein Limits
Anabolic Protein Limits
Eating huge amounts or protein regularly causes the body to oxidize less of it.
by Jerry Brainum
An unwritten rule of bodybuilding nutrition is that you should limit protein to no more than 30 grams per meal. So if a 200-pound bodybuilder should ideally get 1.7 grams of protein per kilogram (2.2 pounds) of bodyweight, that amounts to a suggested daily protein intake of 153 grams. In reality, most bodybuilders who weigh 200 pounds get considerably more than that. The recommendation is based on research that monitored protein use and absorption in a weight-training population. Despite that, you hear and read about champion bodybuilders who take in 300 grams or more protein a day.
Many dietitians and other health professionals who aren’t as well-versed in nutrition as their academic backgrounds would indicate espouse the idea that eating a large amount of protein can be problematic or even hazardous to health. They warn that it stresses the liver and kidneys, which at first glance seems to be true, as the liver and kidneys are the primary organs that metabolize protein in the body. Even so, normal liver and kidney functions are more than sufficient to handle the nitrogen-based waste products that result from eating a huge amount of protein. Having diseased kidneys or liver may require some changes in protein intake, but that doesn’t apply to an otherwise healthy population.
Other so-called expert claim that excess protein can make you fat, since a gram of protein does contain four calories and since too many calories eaten from any source can eventually wind up as bodyfat. Here again, however, is an example of scientific ignorance, perhaps duplicity. In active people the fate of excess protein is not storage but rather oxidation, mainly in the liver.
Again, the question arises: Is there an actual limit to how much protein you should eat if you’re trying to build muscle? Although the 30-gram rule has been around for decades, its source is not clear. Recent studies seem to confirm that there is indeed a limit to how much protein you can use at one time. For example, an intake of only six grams of essential amino acids maximizes muscle protein synthesis after weight training. Other studies narrow it even further, suggesting that just one essential amino acid—leucine—is the key to effective muscle protein synthesis after weight training.
Another theory is that getting excess protein spurs the synthesis of a major blood protein called albumin. Basically, the albumin is thought to act as a storage vehicle for protein, to be used when required for muscle and whole-body protein synthesis. Amino acids stored with albumin are protected from oxidation.
Until recently, no one had bothered to test the notion that 30 grams of protein or less is about all the body can handle after weight training. A new study tackled that issue in particular. Six healthy young men, average age 22, on five separate occasions reported to a lab, where they did intense leg exercise. After training, the men received drinks containing zero, five, 10, 20 or 40 grams of whole-egg powder. The researchers measured protein synthesis and oxidation over a four-hour period after the training ended by tracing tagged leucine.
They also monitored factors involved in muscle protein synthesis that are affected by amino acid intake, particularly the branched-chain amino acids, such as leucine. The factors become activated when phosphate groups are attached to them; however, in this study they weren’t affected by any amount of protein intake. The authors suggest that the exercise itself may have maximally stimulated the factors, which would obscure the effect produced by amino acids.
The study did find that both muscle protein and serum albumin synthesis were maximally stimulated with protein intakes under 20 grams at one sitting. Eating more than 20 grams of protein at a time results in increased protein oxidation with no further increase in muscle protein synthesis. The 20 grams contain 8.6 grams of essential amino acids, which is about the same amount that has proved effective in boosting muscle protein synthesis following weight training. Maximal protein synthesis at rest requires only 10 grams of protein per meal.
As for the lack of muscle-protein-synthesis-factor stimulation, adding carbohydrate to the protein would likely have favored more stimulation due to a greater insulin release. The authors note, however, that the exercise-induced increase in essential amino acid delivery into muscle results in upgraded muscle protein synthesis after weight training.
While some people advocate taking supplemental amino acids to spark muscle protein synthesis, in reality, having a constantly high level of aminos in the blood makes muscle resistant to protein synthesis. The excess amino acids are simply oxidized. According to the authors of this study, maximal protein synthesis can be achieved with 20 grams of protein per meal, eaten five to six times daily. Any more than that results in oxidation of the excess protein, with no further increase in muscle protein. In short, the excess protein is just wasted.
The authors also warn that eating huge amounts or protein regularly causes the body to oxidize less of it. That may actually result in a protein deficit, although I doubt whether it’s likely with most bodybuilders.
What is certain is that many bodybuilders are eating much more protein than they need for building muscle. Those 300-to-600-gram daily intakes that you hear about may not be causing health problems, but they aren’t helping to build muscle or strength, either.
I contacted one of the authors of the new study. Stuart M. Phillips, Ph.D., is an associate professor of kinesiology at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. He’s published many articles about sports nutrition and muscle physiology in numerous professional journals. Phillips said that the recommendation of 1.7 grams of protein per kilogram of bodyweight is based on old, imprecise examinations of nitrogen balance. In contrast, his study measured actual muscle protein synthesis, a far more reliable method of determining protein use in relation to exercise. He notes, “The bottom line is that nobody has any idea how much protein you need to consume to maximize muscle growth, but based on our work, we see it as being much lower than anyone has previously speculated. This makes a lot of sense, since the rate of muscle growth is so slow in even the biggest guy that it can’t be much more protein, if any.”
Discuss this on bodybuilding forum
Post Footer automatically generated by Add Post Footer Plugin for wordpress.Tweet
|
<urn:uuid:e8ffcbbf-2dbd-49f4-9686-4f1d60d26bca>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.musclesprod.com/featured/anabolic-protein-limits/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783399106.96/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154959-00115-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.961981
| 1,346
| 2.640625
| 3
|
This article looks at that barriers we have to overcome in order to recover from illness; why healing is seen as unattractive; what the language of woundology is; why we tend to hold on to the language of woundology and the reasons for the inability to heal ourselves.
Some individuals tend to have a special ability to heal themselves and others. What is this special ability? Are they born with it? Is this ability important to our health or healing? The common thread among these individuals is that they have developed a special rapport with time and space. They are able to live in the present moment and are not moved by anything in their past. This special skill allows these individuals to have a high level of vitality and ability to heal rather rapidly, and they tend to demonstrate maturity of their souls, practice the highest form of will power and are able to control their spirits by recalling their souls from the toxic perception of the past (Myss, 2001).
As energy enters our bodies, its distribution is limited to various activities, mainly to daily bodily functions and activities. Every time we say “I wish I could understand”, “Why has this happened?” or “I should have done this …” we are focusing on our perception of the past. Doing that, we actually send our soul on a mission to nurture a past injury, creating a mental circuit between the perception of the past and our mind (Myss, 2001). This mentally created circuit is an unnecessary path that our energy can use since there is nothing positive about thinking what you should have done. Consequently, energy is drained from our body, energy that can be used for normal bodily functions. The more times we sent our soul to the past, the more circuits we have with the perception of the past. Eventually depleting our energy resources necessary for normal disease fighting activities and healthy biology.
Reliving our perception of the past is both toxic and waste of time, since anything useful and good out of a past experience is already inside of us. It has made us live through the event therefore has made us stronger, wiser and more experienced. Reliving the past only loses our souls and forces us to relive toxic emotions over and over again, producing a discomforting or dis-eased environment. The dis-eased environment or energy pattern produces a poor harvest which affects our internal cells, creating physical stress and disease. It also affects our aging, because we tend to age faster when our soul is in the past (Myss, 2001). In fact, any reason behind every biological disease can be discovered by closely looking at someone’s biography. This is because our past experiences, our biography become our biology. According to Myss, there is no difference between biology and biography.
If we know that returning to our past is toxic, then why do we do it? One of the reasons is that we have not learned to forgive ourselves and others and we are bitter about what has happened. Forgiving can be difficult and can create an internal conflict, since it is not congruent with our eye-for-an-eye mentality and our distorted perception of forgiveness that stems from the mentality of “I will not forgive someone because I am innocent and others are so bad”. This mentality tends to make us feel somehow very important and powerful and we think that it puts us at the centre of the universe (Myss, 2001).
In fact this addictive and destructive behavior does not make us powerful at all; through our language it actually creates a victim reality where we give our power away. The use of language about open wounds is called the language of woundology (Myss, 2001). On mental and physical levels, it is very toxic because every time we tend to talk about a wound we are not allowing it to heal. This eventually creates many complications. On a physical level, look what happens when the body does not quickly close an open wound. It becomes infected and eventually amputation can occur. The same happens on a mental level.
The reason why we tend to use the language of woundology is that it is the first language of intimacy that we have learned. It is the foundation for everything that we have created, producing a dependency or an addiction. Leaving it behind can create many internal conflicts. Could you imagine giving up everything that you have created? What uncertainty will this change bring you? Could you start over again and leave other victims behind? Could you be seen as a traitor by other victims? How would you cope with being healthy? These are some of the questions we ask ourselves when we are faced with the dilemma of giving up the language of woundology. It is seen as very unappealing by most and this is why healing is so unattractive. We fear answering these questions and therefore hold onto our destructive language of woundology. Remember that we are more afraid of the uncertainty a change brings to us than death. That is why some people do not want to get healthy and deep down hold onto their destructive behaviors.
Other addictive reason for using a language of woundology is a distorted perception of power it gives us over others. When we use woundology in our language we create a bond between us and other victims who honor our wounds. We understand them and they understand us. This is a form of control, as this bond is used for support in times of need. This unhealthy form of control grows out of own fear of being lonely, and it further strengthens our circuits to the past and reinforces our victim reality.
Our souls act as filters of perception of reality. Recalling our lost souls from the past is the secret to healing and a vital component in creating a positive reality. (Myss, 2001). This requires a use of the highest form of will power and maturity and is vital in creating a healthy frequency. Forgiving, recalls the soul back from the past and shifts frequency to the present, increasing our vitality and minimizing any waste of energy. The new present time perception influences our biology. The 7th chakra activities such as visualization, prayers, meditation and yoga have enough power to influence our physiology by changing our focus on the present moment.
Another way to recall your soul is to clearly identify your injuries and be aware of the language you use. Are you using excuses? Remember excuses come from wounds (Myss, 2001). Watch you language of woundology and give it up every time you use it. Realize that you are intending to control others and trying to get their support just makes things worse. Live one day at a time, focus on the present, have no expectations, make no judgments, give up the need of why things happened, as this is costing you cell tissue and is toxic. Remind yourself that this is a full time occupation.
Additional factors that stop us from healing ourselves are: our inability to deal with will-power incongruence which creates spirit-weakening addictions; inability to unconditionally love ourselves without criticism; allowing fear to control our actions; feeling insecure about life which creates a need to control others and taking things very personally.
Myss, C. (2001). Why People Don’t Heal. [Audio Book], Bolder. CO: Sounds True.
|
<urn:uuid:fedab50e-24b7-461c-886b-3bcc2502dfd0>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://robertmijas.com/blog/why-healing-isnt-easy/comment-page-1/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783395620.9/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154955-00142-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.960006
| 1,467
| 2.609375
| 3
|
Filter or no Filter?
The topic of whether or not filters are necessary for keeping bettas has been highly debated in the fish-keeping world.Some say that filters are necessary because if their other fish need filters, then bettas should get one too.To them, not providing bettas with filters is just being lazy and not giving them the best possible care.Others believe that filters are unnecessary and even cruel to bettas because its putting the bettas in an environment that they are not accustomed to.Many bettas, especially the long-tailed varieties go through a lot of stress swimming in the current because their fins act as a sail and are pushed to wherever the current takes them. Betta owners want their bettas to feel at home by making sure there is little or no current in the aquarium, just like the bettas natural habitat in the rice paddies of Southeast Asia.
When to use and not use a filter
There are other fish/aquatic animals housed with the bettas
A filter is definitely needed here because the more fish, the more waste, which ultimately leads to more ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates.Additionally, most fish dont have the ability to live in low oxygen waters such as the betta so the water agitation caused by the filter is necessary.
- More than to of the aquarium volume is filled with live plants
In this situation, the live plants not only act as a natural filter, but provide a hiding place for bettas and imitate the bettas natural habitat.However, this only worksif you tank only houses 1 betta, or else more plants would be needed.
- Tank size of 2.5 gallons or less
A filter is not recommended because most filters rated for these sized tanks are too strong for bettas. However, there are filters that work for 2.5 gallons such as the Red Sea Deco Art Nano Filter. It is recommended to do bi-weekly waterchanges of 25%.
- Tank size of over 2.5 gallons
For these tank sizes, a filter is recommended because there is more room for bettas to escape the current and it allows the owners to do water changes once a week instead of twice a week. However, its important to find a filter rated one level down for the specific size tank so the current isnt too strong.
- Willing to keep up with weekly or bi-weekly water changes
If you, as a responsible betta owner, solemnly swear to regularly do waterchanges (twice per week for 2.5 gallons or less and once per week for tanks over 2.5 gallons), then a filter is not necessary.However, if you miss one waterchange, it may be the end for you betta.Larger tanks are more lenient for missed water changes because it takes longer for the chemicals to build up to toxic levels. Smaller tanks are not so kind though.
|
<urn:uuid:825fe9ee-512a-415a-aaaa-375f5fe9db23>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://bettacare101.com/filters/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783396100.16/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154956-00040-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.949304
| 604
| 2.78125
| 3
|
How to Become a Ninja
“Once you learn how to be a ninja, no force on this Earth can withstand your fury.”
I’m quoting myself there. I was going to try to be funny and follow that direction for the rest of this page.
After looking at how many other funny ninja how to’s there are online, I decided there aren’t enough real guides to becoming a ninja on the Internet.
So I’m going to give you a serious online how to guide for studying ninjutsu and learning what it is to be a ninja. Besides, if I’m serious, that should keep masked men in black from slipping through the perimeter of my compound and slicing my throat as I scream in terror.
You’ve probably only seen movies and tv shows where ninjas are depicted as either teams of cravenly assassins or noble warriors somewhat resembling the samurai warrior in skill and ethics. Neither of those are exactly true.
What Is a Ninja?
The ninja, also known as “shinobi”, were covert agents during the Feudal Age of Japan (roughly from the years 1185 to 1868) who used infiltration techniques for sabotage, espionage and assassination in the internecine strife of Japanese feudal life. The ninja were the special forces of their day, employed for tactics that samurai were ill-suited towards. Samurai tended to look down on the ninja for these underhanded tactics.
Ninjutsu techniques probably were taught possibly as early as the 12th century, though they really did not become known to the Japanese until the strife of the 14th and 15th centuries.
The famous Iga and Koga ninja clans rose to prominence in these times, as these two neighboring ninja groups emerged from their mountain training grounds in modern-day Shiga Prefecture to hire themselves out as mercenaries for one side or the other in the wars.
What Did Ninjas Do?
These ninjas hired themselves out in the years between 1485 and 1581, when the forces of Oda Nobunaga invaded Iga territory and wiped them out as an organized clan. The Iga and Koga had been respected allies before the wars, but 80 Koga ninja had joined forced with Tokugawa in 1560, and their raid on an Iga castle led to years of conflicts, when it was said no Iga or Koga met without their being a fight. This strife weakened the two powerful ninja groups and helped lead to their downfall.
Ironically, Iga Clan ninjas, including Hattori Hanzo, would later serve as the Tokugawa’s bodyguard. Tokugawa won the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600 and esablished the Shogunate, which would hold power (instead of the Emperor) until the Meiji Restoration in 1868. The Meiji Restoration ended the feudal age of Japan and ushered in the modernization of the Japanese industries, military and society.
Despite laws against carrying swords, the legends of ninja warriors continued to grow in Modern Japan. In the 20th century, ninjutsu schools formed, though what it means to be a ninja in modern society is hotly debated by different practitioners. I’ll let you settle that for yourself.
For the time being, here’s the best way to go about becoming a ninja master yourself.
Read About Ninjitsu
Buy a book about Ninjitsu to learn about the tradition. Examples of ninja books include Ninjitsu: History and Tradition or The Way of the Ninja: Secret Techniques, both by Masaaki Hatsumi. The first book will give you the ninja background and history. The second delves more into the techniques, truths and wisdom of Ninjitsu.
If you don’t happen to like Masaka Hatsumi’s philosophies or writing style, you can read Ninjutsu: The Secret Art of the Ninja by Simon Yeo, which discusses the long history of ninja warriors, training advice, body movement, balance and pressure points. Another option is Ninpo Ninjutsu: The Complete History and Training Guide by Tadashi Yamashita.
Watch Ninja Videos
Go to a website like Martial Arts Training Videos and buy some videos that show specific ninja skills and training techniques. This will give you visual assistance in designing your own training techniques. Of course, you’ll eventually want to learn ninjutsu from a ninja master.
Ninja Training Academies
For those who are truly dedicated to ninjutsu, there are ninja training schools such as Bujinkan Martial Arts, which is where Masaaki Hatsumi is Soke (grandmaster). There are several in Japan, though you are less likely to find them in the United States or North America. Still, there are online ninja training schools, where you can get direct instruction.
Being a Ninja
I’m not sure what you’ll do, once you become a ninja. But if you want to know how to be a ninja, you’ll need to study about ninja ethos, ninja history and ninja training. Then you’ll need to train your body and mind in the techniques that have prevailed for centuries.
|
<urn:uuid:aabeed12-7823-4a00-8308-2c5e97ed974a>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.howtoguides365.com/how-to/be-a-ninja/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783399117.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154959-00040-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.957298
| 1,071
| 2.578125
| 3
|
[Published in 1949: Smithsonian Institution United States National Museum Bulletin 196: 233-260]
The bluebird is well named, for he wears a coat of the purest, richest, and most gorgeous blue on back, wings, and tail; no North American bird better deserves the name, for no other flashes before our admiring eyes so much brilliant blue. It has been said that he carries on his back the blue of heaven and the rich brown of the freshly turned earth on his breast; but who has ever seen the bluest sky as blue as the bluebird's back? The early settlers in Plymouth Colony welcomed this friendly, cheerful songster, which reminded them of their beloved English robin redbreast, and they named it the "blue robin," an appropriate name still used among some children. And, as our Pilgrim fathers welcomed it over 300 years ago, so do we today greet with joy the coming of this lovely, gentle bird each spring. Dull indeed would be the man that did not feel the thrill awakened by the first glimpse of brilliant color in the orchard and the cheery warbling notes borne to our ears on the first gentle breath of spring!
Before the English sparrows came to crowd the bluebirds out, the latter came freely to nest in the boxes that we put up for them, or to occupy the natural cavities in the apple trees near our houses, even in the towns and villages. And the coming of the starling has driven them still farther away from our homes. So, now we must look for them in the open country, in the rural apple orchards, along the country roadsides, in open groves, and in burned-over or cut-over woodlands where there are plenty of dead trees and stumps with suitable hollows for nesting. They can be encouraged to remain, however, in any open region by putting up plenty of nesting boxes.
Spring.--The bluebird is a hardy bird; it does not go so far south in winter as most birds do, and it seeks the first favorable opportunity to return to its summer haunts. A few individuals may spend a mild winter in southern New England, but, as a rule, we may not expect to see the first arrivals here earlier than the first warm days in February; these are probably birds that have wintered not much farther south; and they may not stay long, as winter lingers in the lap of spring, late snowstorms and cold snaps may return and the venturesome birds are forced to retreat. But when the bluebirds come to stay, then we know that spring is really here. They are close rivals with the early robins and red-winged blackbirds, as harbingers of spring. W. E. Clyde Todd (1940) has expressed it very well, as follows:
Of all our birds, this soft-voiced harbinger of spring is one of the most eagerly awaited. When winter begins to yield at last to the warming touch of the returning sun; when several days of clearing skies and southerly breezes have loosened the ice-fettered streams, drawn the frost from the ground, and given a balmy tang to the air; and when all nature seems in an expectant mood, vibrant with a new hope and a new promise--the Bluebird returns. . . . Its soft, pleasing warble, like the gentle murmur of a flowing brook in soothing cadence, awakens a sense of well-being and content in each responsive listener.
Bluebirds are seen more or less in winter over so much of their breeding range that the spring migration is not easily traced. Probably there is a gradual northward trend throughout all the winter range, with periodical retreats and advances influenced by weather changes. On Mount Mitchell, in western North Carolina, Thomas D. Burleigh (1941) seems to have noted a definite period of transition, for he found it "fairly plentiful" there "during the early spring months in the cut-over area (6,000 feet), occurring then in small scattered flocks. Extreme dates of occurrence are February 20 (1931) and March 21 (1930). It may possibly breed sparingly at this altitude, although there are no actual records."
John Burroughs (1880) says:
In New York and New England the sap starts up in the sugar maple the very day the bluebird arrives, and sugar-making begins forthwith. The bird is generally a mere disembodied voice; a rumor in the air for two or three days before it takes visible shape before you. The males are the pioneers, and come several days in advance of the females. . . .
The bluebird enjoys the preeminence of being the first bit of color that cheers our northern landscape. The other birds that arrive about the same time--the sparrow, the robin, the phoebe-bird--are clad in neutral tints, gray, brown, or russet; but the bluebird brings one of the primary hues and the divinest of them all.
Many a disaster may overtake these hardy pioneers on their northward journey from the genial southland; perhaps they are more brave than hardy, for they suffer much, and many perish from the effects of sleet and snowstorms, and from freezing temperatures. Bagg and Eliot (1937) quote the following story from a Springfield, Mass., paper: "On March 28 a pair of Bluebirds came to the feeding station of Charles J. Anderson, 24 Eddywood Ave., Springfield, and after eating began to flutter and peck at the window. It was cold outside, so after talking to them through the glass, Mrs. Anderson let them in. The male was hardy, but the female manifestly required warmth. She was given warm milk to drink, and warbled her thanks. For three days, while the cold spell lasted, she returned periodically to get warm inside the room." They say that "Mr. Cross of Huntington has a photograph of twenty-two Bluebirds together which, caught in a heavy spring snowstorm, lived upon sumac berries and between feedings snuggled together, all fluffed up, on a small dead branch in the shelter of a building."
And Edward H. Forbush (1929) says that "in western Massachusetts and in Vermont during the late spring storms many bluebirds have died huddled together in hollow trees, where they sought refuge from fury of the gale. During a storm a lady in Stowe, Vermont, heard a bluebird calling in her living room and found two in the stove. They had sought shelter in the chimney and had come down the stovepipe."
Courtship.--The love-making of the bluebird is as beautiful as the bird itself, and normally as gentle, unless interrupted by some jealous rival who would steal his bride; then gentleness gives place to active combat. The male usually arrives a few days ahead of the female, selects what he considers to be a suitable summer home, and carols his sweetest, most seductive notes day after day until she appears in answer to his call. Then he flutters before her, displaying the charms of his widespread tail and half-opened wings, warbling in delicious, soft undertones, to win her favor. At first she seems indifferent to the gorgeous blue of his overcoat or the warm reddish brown of his ardent breast. He perches beside her, caresses her in the tenderest and most loving fashion, and sings to her in most endearing terms. Perhaps he may bring to her some delicious morsel and place it gently in her mouth, as an offering. Probably he has already chosen the cavity or box that he thinks will suit her; he leads her to it, looks in, and tries to persuade her to accept it, but much persistent wooing is needed before the nuptial pact is sealed. In the meantime a rival male may appear upon the scene and a rough and tumble fight ensue, the males clinching in the air and falling to the ground together, a confusing mass of blue and brown feathers struggling in the grass; but no very serious harm seems to have been done, as they separate and use their most persuasive charms to attract the object of their rivalry. At times, a second female may join in the contest and start a lively fight with her rival for the mate she wants. John Burroughs (1894) gives an interesting account of such a four-cornered contest, too long to be quoted here, in which the female of an apparently mated pair seemed to waver in her affections between her supposed mate and the new rival; and the latter seemed to have left the female of his first choice to win the bride of the other. However, after a much prolonged contest, the matter seemed to be satisfactorily settled, for two pairs of bluebirds finally flew off in different directions and started up housekeeping without further trouble.
But bluebirds are not always constant in their nuptial ties, even when they have raised a brood together successfully. Mrs. Nice (1930a) cites a case in which a male had a different mate for the second brood but returned to the first mate for the third brood, all in the same year. Seth H. Low (1934) has indicated, by banding at a station on Cape Cod, Mass., that bluebirds select different mates in successive seasons; he says: "In 1932 eight pairs of adults were banded at the Station. From two pairs neither bird returned. One adult from each of five pairs was captured nesting with a new mate. As it cannot be proved that each of the former mates were alive, it cannot be concluded that these birds were inconstant. Both adults did return from the eighth pair, but each took a new mate. No conclusions on mating constancy can be drawn from this one case."
T. E. Musselman (1935) writes: "During the first nesting period in 1935, I banded eighteen mothers. During the second nesting I found that none of these birds were in my nests, which leads me to believe that the mother bluebirds probably travel a number of miles between the first and second nesting and probably fly in small irregular bands with the broods of young birds. The second nesting is carried on by stray mothers which have formerly nested elsewhere."
If a male bluebird loses his mate, he quickly secures another. Dr. T. Gilbert Pearson (1917) tells of one that had three mates in a single season. The first two females were killed by a cat, but the third raised a brood, for "on a sunny hillside in the garden the cat was buried."
Nesting.--In the early days of my egg collecting, from 1880 to 1900, we always looked for bluebirds' nests in natural cavities in apple trees in old orchards, and fully 80 percent of our nests were found in such situations, though we found some in natural cavities in other trees and in old woodpecker holes. Nesting boxes were not so plentiful in those days as they are today. Two changes have taken place during the present century that have greatly modified the nesting habits of these birds. The old, decrepit apple trees have been pruned of their dead branches, the cavities have been filled, or the old trees have been removed entirely, thus destroying many favorite nesting sites for bluebirds, tree swallows, and some other birds. The old orchards have been replaced by new, young orchards, in which the trees are regularly pruned and sprayed, which is better for the apple crop but not so good for the birds. Furthermore, there has been an immense increase in the number of bird boxes put up by appreciative bird-lovers and by agriculturists who are now well aware of the economic value of the birds. The result has been that the bluebirds were not slow in adapting themselves to these two changes and in adopting these better types of nesting sites. So that, at least in settled communities, a great majority of the bluebirds now nest in the boxes.
To get the best results the boxes should be set on poles at no great height above ground, preferably between 8 and 12 feet, and in the open; to keep out starlings, the entrance hole should not be over 1 1/2 inches in diameter; even then, there will be competition from tree swallows or house wrens, but the bluebirds are usually more than a match for these two.
Several large nesting projects have been reported where numerous boxes have been erected to encourage the birds to breed. One of these, part of which I have seen, centers around the great bird-banding station of Dr. Oliver L. Austin, at North Eastham, Mass. There are over 500 boxes in this project, chiefly around the main station, but also scattered at various distances away, from 2 to 9 miles north and south along the outer arm of Cape Cod. Most of the boxes that I have seen are erected on slender poles, within reach of a man standing on the ground, along lines of fences and around the edges of fields, bogs, marshes, and ponds. Most of them have been occupied by tree swallows, but many by bluebirds.***
For seven or eight years Dr. T. E. Musselman (1939) has been building bluebird boxes in quantity and erecting them on fence posts along the hard roads leading into Quincy, Ill. "The idea appealed to the popular fancy immediately," and he has received much help from school students of conservation and others. It took about 50 boxes to cover 38 miles of one road, and he placed 150 boxes along another 68 miles of road. He says: "All of these boxes are standardized, have removable tops, and by the time the entire project is complete will include nearly one thousand Bluebird boxes. Magazines and newspapers have printed copies of my plans and because of such publicity I feel that in many sections of the country, similar projects will be carried on." In a previous paper (1935) he says: "In no case did two birds nest closer than a quarter of a mile." His nests were placed from 3 feet to 10 feet above the ground, apparently mostly nearer 3 feet than 10, "and on posts away from human habitation. If the box is placed on the pasture side of a post away from the wires, cows use the box to scratch their backs, so I try to attach them to the wire side of the post. This protects them from cattle and likewise makes it impossible for cats to molest them." He gives further useful instructions for making the boxes, to which the reader is referred.
Mrs. Amelia R. Laskey has sent me some elaborate notes on another interesting and successful project, of which she says: "Nest boxes for eastern bluebirds have been placed in Percy Warner Park and the adjoining Edwin Warner Park to increase the numbers of this species around Nashville, Tennessee. Starting in 1936 with 26 boxes, others have been gradually added so that 63 have been available the past three years." In one of her published papers (1939), she says that Percy Warner Park "consists of 2141 acres. . .much of it wooded hills, with many miles of winding automobile roads, bridle paths, and hiking trails, interspersed with picnic grounds, shelter houses, and homes of park employees. On the outer boundaries are numerous meadows, bordered on one or two sides with narrow thickets of trees and undergrowth. These meadows provide excellent sites for the Bluebird nest boxes that have been placed there. . . . Of the 37 nest boxes available in 1938, 36 were used at least once by Bluebirds, with a total of 104 sets or 460 eggs laid, an average of 4.42 per nest."
A. Dawes DuBois has sent me his data for 15 nests, observed in Illinois, Minnesota, and New York. Five of these were in bird boxes, three in holes in fence posts, two in hollows in apple trees, two in other tree cavities, two in old woodpecker holes, and one was in a telephone pole.
M. G. Vaiden writes to me from Mississippi: "This bird is a fairly common nesting bird in the hill section of our state, especially from the central hills to the northward until reaching the Tennessee line. They select any suitable site where they think it possible to hide a nest, as a gate post and natural cavities in trees, and I found a nest in a drain pipe, where they were stacked for use and some 6 feet high. The bluebirds selected a pipe near the top of the pile."
Bluebirds have been known to nest in a number of other unusual places, such as empty tin cans or jars, in open hollows in the rotten tops of posts or stumps, and more than once in cliff swallows' nests, even in active colonies. Dr. Charles W. Richmond sent me, long ago, a clipping (Putnam and Wheatland, 1866) which reads as follows: "At the depot, the signal master called the attention of a number of the members to a pair of Blue Birds which had built a nest in one of the signal balls, from which a piece of the canvas had been torn. These birds, after raising one brood of young, had made another nest, by the side of the first, in which they had laid the eggs for a second brood. The signal ball, in which the nests were made, was lowered and hoisted about fifty times a day. The birds flying out as soon as the ball commenced its descent, and, alighting upon a fence nearby, would wait patiently for it to be hoisted again, when they would at once return to their nest."
Another railroad nesting site is mentioned by Charles R. Stockard (1905); it "was the hollow iron coupling of a flat car which stood for many weeks on a side track. The old style link and pin couple had a long hollow neck and back; in this neck a Bluebird had built its nest and deposited a set of five eggs." A. L. Pickens writes to me that he "once found a bluebird's nest in a cavity in a steep earthen bank, some such a place as is usually frequented by the rough-winged swallow." Dr. Thomas S. Roberts (1932) tells the following interesting story of some very persistent bluebirds:
Many years ago there stood on the campus of the State University at Minneapolis two cannons, which were used every morning in artillery drill, and from which blank charges were frequently fired. A pair of Bluebirds selected one of these guns as a nesting site. The nest was accordingly built but of course was removed next morning. This went on for several successive days, the nest built one day being destroyed the following morning. At length one morning the cadet whose duty it was to charge the gun failed to observe whether or not the nest was there and rammed down the cartridge with a will. When he tried to fire the gun, of course it would not go off; so the load was drawn and an examination disclosed the nest and the female bird jammed into a scarcely recognizable mass against the breech. Promptly the male secured another mate and the following morning the usual nest was in the gun. This continued for a day or two, when the cannon was stored for the season in a shed near by and a cavity in an adjoining tree was chosen for the nest, where peace reigned.
At least two combination nests have been reported. B. S. Bowdish (1890) mentions a bluebird's nest in the top of an old stump that held four eggs; under this in the same cavity was a nest of eight young mice. "The mice had access to their nest through a small hole in the bottom of the stump, and nothing separated them from the eggs but the material of the two nests." And Mr. Todd (1940) quotes an anecdote by J. Warren Jacobs concerning a bluebird appropriating the finished nest of a Carolina chickadee: "The nest was in two parts; one constructed by the Chickadee, and the other, which was the top story, was made by the Bluebird. The first story contained two [eggs] of the Chickadee, and in the next were five eggs of each species." I once found a flicker's egg in a bluebird's nest, together with five eggs of the bluebird; and in the same orchard there was a flicker's egg in a tree swallow's nest, with five deserted eggs of the swallow.
The nests of the bluebird are poorly and loosely built structures; this is probably all that is necessary in the snug cavities in which the nests are usually made, where a firmly built nest is not required. The nests are often made entirely of dried grass and weed stems, carelessly arranged; sometimes a few fine twigs are added; the lining may consist merely of finer grasses, or sometimes a little hair or a few feathers are added. The possible nesting sites are often pointed out by the male after he has attracted the female to his breeding territory, but she evidently makes the final choice. Both sexes help in building the nest, though most of the actual work on it is done by the female.
Wendell P. Smith (1937) made the following observations at his banding station at Wells River, Vt.:
Nest-building did not proceed with uniform speed, especially in the case of an early beginning. There seemed to be some correlation with the temperature, as cessation of activity coincided with lower temperature and resumption of construction began with the coming of warmer weather. The time required for a nest's completion differed in consequence. The shortest period recorded was four days, and the longest twelve days.
Material was secured within a radius of seventy-five feet of the nest, and much of it within less than half that distance. In one case dried grass was used, while in the other, dead pine needles were obtained from the ground near by. Observations showed that the female performed nearly all the work of collecting. Between the completion of the nest and the laying of the first egg some time intervened, usually two or three days.
Dr. W. T. Harper (1926) has published some detailed observations on the building of a second nest by a pair of bluebirds. He concludes with the following summary:
The most interesting points disclosed by these observations seem to be the following: First, the site for a second nest seems to have been selected while the first brood was still in the nest, and the male took the initiative in the selection. Second, the male laid the first foundation of the second nest, but the female did practically all the work while the male acted as watchman or boss. Third, work was faster at the beginning of the building operations and, as finishing touches had to be added, the work became constantly slower. Fourth, parts of four days were required to build the nest, most of the work being done between 6:30 and 10 a.m. Fifth, at least two hundred and eighty-nine trips with nesting material were made by the female, the last fifteen of which were from a distance with material of fine texture, while the others were from less than 50 yards, with one or more pieces of dead grass. Sixth, the old birds, with young of both broods, returned to the vicinity of the two nests after an absence of about a month, and the old birds evidenced great interest in the second nesting site and showed some jealousy when the young approached it too closely.
Ora W. Knight (1908) says: "Nest building is participated in by both parents, and I have known of a nest containing the full complement of eggs just seven days after the birds began building, indicating that the nest was completed in three days and an egg laid daily thereafter."
Henry Mousley (1916) "once witnessed a pair of these birds drive out a Hairy Woodpecker from a half completed nesting hole it had made, and after gaining possession of it they immediately set to work building a nest which was completed and four eggs laid in the remarkably short space of six days."
Alexander Sprunt, Jr., has sent me the following account of an unusual nesting site, as observed by Prof. Franklin Sherman, of Clemson College, S.C. Professor Sherman writes: "The nest is saddled on a horizontal limb of an oak, at about 12 or 15 feet above the ground, and about 15 feet out from the trunk of the tree, which is in the front lawn of the college hotel building, almost overhanging a much-frequented street or road. One or two small twigs give support to the nest, but it is not in any fork of the main limb--it is saddled on the limb itself, which is about 1 1/4 inches in diameter at the nest. During my stay of about 20 minutes the adult female made two visits to the nest and fed the clamoring young."
Eggs.--The bluebird may lay anywhere from three to seven eggs to a set; as small a set as three is unusual, five is a much commoner number than four; six eggs are often found, but sets of seven are rare. The eggs are ovate or short-ovate and are somewhat glossy. They are normally very pale blue or bluish white and always, as far as I know, are unmarked. Numerous sets of pure white eggs have been reported; Dr. Musselman (1935 says: "In 1935 I was able to reach definite knowledge of the percentage of white eggs laid by Bluebirds. Of the 730 eggs recorded, 40 were albinistic in nature, or a total of 5.48 percent. Fifty percent of these white eggs hatched and the young were banded, and I am hoping that some of the young birds may return to this vicinity next year which will allow me to determine whether the trait of laying albinistic eggs is inherited." His hope was realized, for in his later paper (1939), he states: "This year [apparently 1938] I had the return of the first young female bird which had developed from a white egg laid in one of my boxes. . . . Imagine my delight in recording six albinistic eggs laid by this second generation bird. Of course, this one case is not sufficient to justify the conclusion that all female Bluebirds which hatch from albinistic eggs will in turn lay white eggs."
Mrs. Laskey, at Nashville, Tenn., has thrown considerably more light on this question of inheritance; I quote from her manuscript notes, as follows: "A number of individuals have laid white eggs, but there has been no evidence as yet to show this to be an inherited trait in this group. No. 36-146599, hatched April 1937 from an albino egg, was found in 1939 laying blue eggs. No. 38-121000, banded as an adult on April 6, 1939, was then incubating six white eggs. In 1940, one of those hatched from this set, N 6, laid five blue eggs in the adjoining meadow. The following year N 6 had moved to the next meadow, laying six blue eggs in the second nesting period. From this hatch, N 22 was found in 1942 as she incubated six blue eggs. Thus, daughter and granddaughter of the white-egg-laying female were laying normally colored eggs.
"Five birds, known to have been hatched from blue eggs, laid white eggs (N 1, N 11, N 13, N 18, N 21). Only one, N 11, was found in two seasons. In April 1940, at 253 days of age, she began her first set of five in the box where she had been hatched from a set of four blue eggs. For the season she laid 5-5-5-4 white eggs, with only the third successful. She deserted her first two sets soon after completion and the young of the fourth set when they were five days old. She reappeared in the box in March 1941, laying five albino eggs, one blue-tinged. Four young were raised; one egg was sterile. On May 6 she began her second set of five white eggs but disappeared at the time this set was hatching.
"In 1942 there were more white eggs laid than in any previous season. They consisted of three sets of four, eight sets of five, two sets of six, and one set of seven. This total of 71 white eggs was 9.1 percent of the 774 laid this season. Incidentally, sets of seven bluebird eggs are rare; the 1938 and the 1942 sets are the only records in the Nashville area."
The bluebird is a persistent layer; if a set of eggs is taken, another will be laid within a very short time, as the two following accounts will show. Guy H. Briggs (1902) reports taking five sets of white eggs from one pair of birds during one season in a Maine orchard; the sets were all of five eggs, which he described as smooth and glossy, like woodpeckers' eggs. The sets were taken on May 1, May 27, June 13, June 24, and July 6, the nests being taken with the sets. Two of the sets were in the same cavity in an apple tree, and two others were in the same nest box. Between the last two dates only 11 days were required to build the bulky nest and lay five eggs. The bird had about half incubated the first three sets, but the last two sets were perfectly fresh. Thus, in about 76 days the birds had built five bulky nests and laid 25 eggs.
Arthur T. Wayne (1910) had an experience that almost equaled the above record. At Mount Pleasant, S.C., he took three sets of white eggs from a single pair of birds in one season, on March 30, April 12, and May 6; this bird laid another set late in May, and these were allowed to hatch. The interval between March 30 and April 12 was a short time in which to build a nest and lay four eggs.
The measurements of 50 eggs in the United States National Museum average 20.7 by 16.3 millimeters; the eggs showing the four extremes measure 22.9 by 15.8, 20.3 by 17.8, 17.8 by 16.0, and 22.4 by 15.2 millimeters.
Incubation.--The period of incubation is generally conceded to be about 12 days, though in some cases it may be a few days longer. The young birds remain in the nest 15 to 18 days, according to various observers, but probably the former figure is near the average. Both of these periods are evidently more or less variable according to circumstances. Mr. Smith (1937) noted that incubation "usually began with the completion of the clutch, but one instance was recorded where it began with the laying of the fourth egg in a complement of six. Of nine successful incubations of the two broods, the period consumed 14 days in four instances, 15 days in three, and 13 and 16 days respectively, in two instances."
Incubation is performed mainly by the female, but the male assists in this duty to some extent. Mr. Smith (1937) says:
In one instance the male was seen to take his mate's place upon the eggs three times in the course of three hours. The male of No. 2 pair fed his mate at intervals and maintained the semblance of a watch during her absence for food. Often the male would fly to the box, or a near-by limb, uttering rapid call notes, whereupon the female would fly out and away for feeding. The male did not always remain near until his mate's return, but not infrequently he left shortly after the departure of the female. Absences, from meager observation, varied both in frequency and in regard to length of time. One nest was under observation from 3:15 to 5:30 p.m., and schedule is as follows: Female left at 3:27, returned at 3:35; remaining on the nest until 3:52. At 3:57 the male entered the nest and incubated until 4:17, when he left. At 4:18 the female returned to stay until 4:25. The male returned to the nest at 4:26, staying until 4:33 and returning again three minutes later for another period on the nest, which lasted until 4:48. The female entered the box at 4:59, and remained until 5:16. After four minutes absence, she came back and was still on the nest at the close of the observation period, ten minutes later. The male of No. 1 pair was not seen to take any part in the duties of incubation, although considerable time was spent in observation, three and a half hours being spent at one sitting.
The male of No. 1 pair was not seen to feed the young. . . . The male of No. 2 pair, on the other hand, was particularly active and during some of the observation periods fed the young more often than the female did. The brooding of this pair was carried on exclusively by the female so far as we could learn. [During one hour, from 2:09 to 3:09 p.m.] the male brought food at 2:34:30, 2:37, 2:45, and 2:58:30. Total feedings for the interval were nine, five by female and four by male, and brooding lasted twenty-seven and a half minutes divided into five separate periods. This may be compared with an hour's observation five days later, the period extending from 2:54 to 3:54 p.m. Nine feedings occurred within this interval also, but six were by male and three by female and the brooding occupied twenty-nine and a half minutes divided into two separate intervals. . . .
In general the period passed by the young in the nest was eighteen days; one exception occurred in the case of No. 2 pair in 1933, when the first brood of four left the nest after seventeen days.
A brood watched by Mr. DuBois were in the nest just 15 days. And Ora W. Knight (1908) says: "The parents take turns in incubating and the eggs hatch in twelve days, the young leaving in fifteen days after they are hatched. Both parents feed them and carefully take away in their bills all the excrement voided by the young." Mrs. Laskey (1939) states that "the only Nashville record of a brooding male Bluebird is that of Simpson in April and May of 1937 when one individual was captured twice in a mail box on a nest containing eggs."
Mr. Smith's (1937) studies of the development of young bluebirds show that on the first day they varied in length from 31 to 41 millimeters; and that at the time of leaving, the 17th or 18th day, they measured 125 to 130 millimeters in length. "The eyes usually began to open on the 4th day, but in one instance this was delayed until the seventh day. Completion of the process required from three to five days. Tail-feathers appeared on the 8th day. Primaries became noticeable on the 4th day."
Mrs. Laskey gives the following information on the success of hatching and rearing of the young, based on her study for seven years: "A careful analysis of the nesting data, accumulated through regular visits to the boxes, indicates that only 1,569 eggs of the 3,512 laid have been successful to the point of survival of the young to the age of 16-17 days when they normally fly from the nest. This is 44.67 percent of the total number laid and corresponds to percentages for birds building open nests. It is markedly lower than for hole-nesting species." Mr. Low's (1934) record for efficiency was decidedly better, varying from 62.7 to 87.5 percent.
Mr. DuBois gives the following account of young bluebirds leaving their nest in a fence post: "On June 19 the young were leaving their nest; only two remained within. I spent most of the afternoon trying for more photographs. After a long wait the male flew to a trolley bracket some 60 or 70 feet from the nest and sat there, and on the trolley wire, singing to the nestlings to come out. He kept this up for a long time. Occasionally a youngster would look out of the hole. They were hungry; they called to their parents in the musical young bluebird voice. But all afternoon the parents refrained from going to the nest to feed them. They merely came occasionally to try to coax the young ones out, by flying past, or by singing to them from some little distance. Finally, one of the youngsters--the one that had sat, two or three times, in the entrance way to look around--scrambled out on to the side of the leaning post, climbed part way around it, and flew across the car track to find a landing place on a horizontal guy cable, against a tree. Both parents fed it immediately; soon they returned and fed it again." He caught the young bird and returned it to the nest, but it came out again within a few seconds, flew over the pasture, and alighted on the ground. During the afternoon the parents had been busy feeding the other young that had left the nest earlier and were in trees. The last youngster was still in the nest when he departed.
Bluebirds almost always raise at least two broods in a season, or at least attempt to do so; in many cases three broods are raised. As soon as the birds of the first brood are on the wing, the male takes charge of them, feeds them and teaches them to feed themselves. And the female immediately gets busy with her second nesting, either with the same mate or with another; as mentioned above, only a few days are needed to build the second nest, or lay the eggs in the same old nest, which has been renovated, if necessary. By the time the second brood is hatched the young of the first brood are well grown, are still in the general vicinity of the nest, and are able to assist in the feeding of the second brood of young, as has been frequently observed. After all the broods are fully grown, the family group keeps more or less together in the general vicinity of the nesting site until the time comes to wander about in fall, preparatory to migration.
Many yearling birds return the following spring to nest in the general vicinity of their birthplace. Mrs. Laskey says: "Forty-two females, banded as nestlings, have returned to nest in the parks; also one banded elsewhere nested in the park, five miles from her birthplace. Numerous mated males, banded in the nest, are seen at the nests. The first eggs of 23 birds were laid at ages of 243 to 370 days, average 312. Egg-laying started on the average date of March 27 (1938 to 1942), nine days later than a group of 27 birds, two or more years old. Size of sets did not differ with age, five being the average. Late and early hatched birds laid at approximately the same time the following spring."
Plumages.--Mr. Smith (1937) describes the natal down as "dark mouse gray." The young bird is in practically full juvenal plumage when it leaves the nest, except for the short tail. The two sexes are distinguishable in this plumage by minor differences. Dr. Dwight (1900) describes the juvenal plumage of the young male bluebird as follows: "Above, slaty mouse-gray, the back lesser, median and a few inner greater coverts with white guttate spots bordered with sepia, the crown and rump much grayer and unspotted but sometimes with obscure transverse barring. Wings and tail are dull azure-blue, the shafts and tips of remiges and rectrices dusky with faint whitish edgings; tertiaries and greater coverts edged with pale chestnut. Below, dull white, mottled on throat, breast and sides with sepia, the feathers centrally white bordered by the sepia and a rusty suffusion. Auriculars dusky mouse-gray mixed with white; lores grayish; conspicuous orbital ring pure white."
The young female is similar to the juvenal male, except that "the outer primary and outer rectrix have white outer webs, the blue is everywhere very much duller, and replaced with brown on the tertiaries and wing coverts, the edgings duller and the quills with duskier tips."
The first winter plumage is acquired by a partial postjuvenal molt, in August and September, the date depending somewhat on the date of hatching. This molt "involves the body plumage, wing coverts, tertiaries and tail, but not the rest of the remiges." This plumage is almost indistinguishable from the winter plumage of the adult male, though the colors are somewhat duller; Ridgway (1907) describes it very well, as follows: "Similar to the spring and summer plumage, but blue of upper parts slightly duller, more or less obscured on hind-neck, back, and scapulars, by brownish tips to the feathers, and cinnamon-rufous of chest, etc., more purplish or vinaceous in hue."
Dr. Dwight (1900) says of the first winter female: "In first winter plumage the blue is obscure and confined to the wings, tail and rump, the back is dull grayish chestnut, grayer on the crown. The sides of the head are gray and white mixed, the orbital ring white. Below, the throat, breast and sides are reddish cinnamon, tingeing also the grayish white chin; abdomen and crissum dull white."
The adult and first nuptial plumages of both sexes are acquired by wear, which removes the edgings and brightens the whole plumage. The following postnuptial molt, beginning about the middle of August, is complete.
Food.--In its food habits, the bluebird is one of our most useful birds. It does practically no harm to human interests and it destroys large quantities of harmful insects. In his analysis of 855 stomachs, taken every month in the year, Professor Beal (1915a) found that the food consisted of 68 percent animal and 32 percent vegetable matter. He says: Orthoptera (grasshoppers, crickets and katydids) furnish the largest item of animal food, amounting to a good percentage in every month, and in August and September aggregating 52.68 and 53.47 percent, respectively. The month of least consumption is January, when they amount to 5.98 percent, and the average for the whole year is 22.01 percent. . . . Beetles constitute the second largest item of animal food, and for the year average 20.92 percent of the diet. Of these, 9.61 percent are useful species, mostly predaceous ground beetles (Carabidae). Few birds exceed this record of destruction of useful beetles. . . . This destruction of useful beetles has been considered by some writers a blot upon the fair name of the bluebird." Various other beetles of a more or less harmful nature, such as May beetles, dung beetles, weevils and others, are eaten in lesser amounts.
Ants amount to 3.48 percent, and other Hymenoptera (wasps and bees) to only 1.62 percent of the bluebird's food. Only one worker honey bee was found in one stomach. Hemiptera (bugs) average 2.75 percent for the year; stink bugs predominated, and remains of chinch bugs were found in one stomach. Lepidoptera, in the form of caterpillars and a few moths, form an important and regular article of food, averaging 10.48 percent for the year, the third largest item of animal food. Other insects, spiders, myriapods, sowbugs, snails, and angle-worms, with a few bones of lizards and tree frogs, made up the remainder of the animal food.
Beal's analysis showed that "the vegetable portion of the eastern bluebird's food is largely fruit and mostly wild species. Practically all of the domestic fruit taken was in June and July. Cherries and raspberries or blackberries were the only fruits really identified, though some pulp may have been of cultivated fruit. The most important vegetable food of the bluebird is wild fruit. The maximum quantity is eaten in December, when it amounts to 57.64 percent. January comes next, but after that month the amount decreases rather abruptly to zero in May. . . . The average for the year is 21.85 percent. At least 38 species of wild fruits were identified and probably more were present but not recognizable." Seeds are eaten sparingly, and grain was found in only two stomachs. Miscellaneous matter includes seeds of sumac, both the harmless and the poisonous kinds, poison ivy and bayberry, amounting to 7.84 percent for the year. Beal includes long lists of insects and vegetable matter eaten.
Bluebirds obtain their food in the air, in the trees, and on the ground. In the air they are not so expert as the flycatchers and cannot catch the swifter insects, but they are often seen fluttering along near the ground after low-flying insects or darting out from a perch on some high tree to snap up passing insects, sometimes darting about with a hovering flight for a considerable distance from their perch. Francis H. Allen writes to me: "One September day I saw about a dozen of them thus for an hour or two, the air being full of dancing gnats." Once, he saw "a male feeding for a long time on the ground on a lawn, progressing in straight lines for considerable distances. He fed much as a robin does, but hopped instead of running and did not pull out worms."
In the trees bluebirds dart about among the foliage for flying insects, or pick caterpillars, katydids, and other insects from the leaves and twigs. Fruits and berries must be picked mainly from the trees and bushes.
But by far the greater part of their insect food, such as grasshoppers, crickets, beetles, etc., is found on or near the ground, and one often sees a bluebird sitting on some low perch, a fence post or wire, or some low tree, watching for its prey. Then it suddenly darts down, seizes something from the ground, and returns to its perch or another lookout point. Perhaps it may flutter down and, hovering just above the grass tops, seize a grasshopper and alight on the ground to eat it or return with it to its perch. Sometimes it stands on the ground and looks around, or actively searches for beetles or crickets; if its prey takes wing, the bird may flutter along after it and catch it in the air.
Behavior.--Bluebirds are generally regarded as gentle and lovable birds and rightly so, for such is their ordinary demeanor. If undisturbed they are friendly with their avian neighbors. But they can be aggressive, and even fierce in standing up for their rights against aggressors. In the competition for nesting sites they have often been known to compete successfully with English sparrows and tree swallows, attacking and driving them away when they attempted to usurp their nesting box. Other larger birds are often driven away from the vicinity of the bluebirds' nest; the male stands guard while the female is incubating, feeds her occasionally, and drives away unwelcome intruders, even human beings. Once, while I was introducing a young boy to the mysteries of bird study, we were vigorously attacked; one of our party had removed the female and was holding her in his hand; and while the boy was examining the nest the male flew at him so savagely that he lost his balance and fell flat on his back. Mr. DuBois had a bluebird fly at his head in a very determined manner several times while he was examining a nest with young; it did not actually strike him but came very near it. And Francis H. Allen tells in his notes of a similar experience; he writes: "The parents were very solicitous and very bold; whenever I approached the nest they swooped at me, making a 'clopping' noise with their bills and uttering a harsh chattering note. The male was the more active of the two in the demonstrations. I could hardly help dodging when he launched himself at my head."
William A. Taylor sends me the following account of a swallow-bluebird feud at the Moose Hill Sanctuary in Sharon, Mass.: "Each spring for years past these two species have fought for the possession of a particular nesting box just back of the house. As a rule, the bluebirds won out, but this year they were outnumbered, and the swallows held possession and the bluebirds were forced to take another box some 35 feet away. For a time peace seemed to prevail; but one morning, when the swallows had eggs and the young bluebirds were about to leave the nest, I became aware of a commotion about the swallows' box. As I watched, both male and female bluebirds emerged with swallow eggs, which they dropped to the ground. The swallows left the neighborhood but, much to my surprise, returned after four days and, finding the bluebird box vacant, laid a second clutch and brought forth their young on July 3. The bluebirds raised their second brood in the swallows' first box, thus resulting in a complete exchange of boxes."
Edward A. Preble refers to a swallow-bluebird experience at his boyhood home in Wilmington, Mass. A nesting box was made with two apartments, side by side. Each spring its occupancy was a matter of sharp contention. But one spring the battle soon ended by a compromise. The two pairs proceeded to build in adjoining rooms, and both brought our their broods in relative peace.
The bluebird, like many other birds, has been seen shadow boxing or fighting his own image in a window pane or other reflecting surface. John Burroughs (1894) gives an amusing account of such behavior. He tells a story related to him by a correspondent; a pair of bluebirds had a nest on the observer's porch and a pair of vireos had a nest with young in some lilac bushes but a few feet away; for several days the male bluebird was seen to feed the young vireos repeatedly, greatly disturbing the old vireos; his correspondent writes: "Sometimes the bluebird would visit his own nest several times before lending a hand to the vireos. Sometimes he resented the vireos' plaintive fault-finding and drove them away. I never saw the female bluebird near the vireos' nest."
With kind treatment and a little encouragement, bluebirds may become very tame, confiding, and friendly. C. F. Hodge (1904) tells an interesting story about how he trained a whole family of bluebirds, old and young, to become friendly with all the members of his family; he began coaxing them to his windowsill with mealworms, of which they seemed to be very fond, and finally had them feeding out of his hand.
The reader is referred to an interesting study of the territorial, nesting, and other behavior of the eastern bluebird by Ruth Harris Thomas (1946), which is published in too much detail to be included here.
Voice.--The bluebird is no great singer; he cannot begin to compete with the greater songsters of the famous thrush family; but his short contralto notes of greeting, as we hear them early in spring, are most welcome and pleasing to the ear, full of richness and sweetness, and even expressing affection. He really does not need to sing; his simplest notes are full of music and fully satisfy the hungry ears of the listener.
Aretas A. Saunders has sent me the following full description of the song: "The song of the bluebird is soft, sweet, rather short, and warble-like. It consists of three to eight notes grouped in phrases of one to three notes each, with very short pauses between them. It is repeated every few seconds, and frequently two different songs are alternated. In the latter case it often happens that one song ends with a rising slur and the other with a descending one, so that it gives the effect of a question and an answer: Ayo ala loee? - - - -alee ay lalo leeo!
"The song is never so loud as those of other thrushes. It varies less in pitch and between individual birds. The range of pitch, from 24 records, is only 4 1/2 tones, from F''' to A''. Many individuals vary only 2 1/2 tones or 3 tones in the entire song. Though the song is comparatively simple, it is always pleasing, perhaps largely because of the soft tone and lack of very high-pitched notes prevent any shrillness.
"Bluebirds sing from March to July or August. The song does not always begin when the first migrants arrive. In 8 out of 29 years of observation in Connecticut, bluebirds were singing when first noted in arrival. In other years several days elapsed before song began. The average arrival is March 10, but the average first song is March 18. The earliest date of beginning of song is March 3, 1923, and the latest April 2, 1940. Since the bluebird is never very common in the North and has periodical periods of scarcity, I often hear very little song in summer. In only eight years have I heard the song in July or August. In these years the average date of the last song is July 26, the earliest July 11, 1926, and the latest August 11, 1932.
"According to my observations, the male bluebird sings abundantly during courtship and nest-building, following the female about as she makes trips to and from the nest for nesting material. But as soon as incubation begins, the song ceases abruptly and is not renewed until the young of that brood have left the care of the parents and it is time to start a new nesting.
"The call notes of the bluebird are fully as musical as the song. These notes may be 2- or 3-syllabled, oola, aloo, oolaloo, or aloola. They may be heard frequently in the fall migration, as flocks of the birds fly over in October and November. The alarm note, given when the young are just out of the nest, is the only harsh sound I have heard from this bird; it sounds like chat or is often doubled to chatat."
Mr. DuBois writes the fall note as juuit or Juliet, which seems to be a good rendering of it. I have heard this plaintive fall note early in spring, before the real song season begins. To John Burroughs (1871) the bluebird seems to say "Bermuda! Bermuda! Bermuda!" The song has often been expressed in other syllables such as turwy, cherwee, cherey-lew, or tura-lee, in soft, liquid, musical tones. W. E. Saunders (1887) once heard, and saw clearly, a bluebird imitating the kay-kaynote of the blue jay; he "found that after the bluebird had warbled from four to seven times, the next warble would be prefaced with the Jay note."
The bluebird has about the lowest-pitched voice of any of the passerine birds; the crow's voice is decidedly lower, and that of the Baltimore oriole is slightly lower on the average but has a higher range. According to Albert R. Brand (1938) the bluebird's voice has an average mean frequency of 2,550, a maximum of 3,100, and a minimum for the lowest note of 2,200 vibrations per second.
Enemies.--Bluebirds seem to have no human enemies; everybody loves the gentle birds and appreciates that they are very useful and harmless tenants in our orchards and about our farms and gardens. But they have plenty of natural enemies to contend with. Cats readily climb to many of their most accessible nests and can reach in and pull out the young or the incubating parent; snakes climb into some cavities and destroy the eggs; red squirrels and blue jays invade the nests and eat the eggs or young; and house wrens often puncture the eggs, so as to appropriate the nest. Mrs. Laskey (1942) reports for that season: "A total of 174 sets, 774 eggs, were laid. From this large number only 261 young, 33.7 percent, left the nest box safely. Predation was heavy, 81 nests being entirely unsuccessful. Among these, 18 mother birds and 46 nestlings are known to have been destroyed by cats and 55 eggs failed to hatch through the loss of the incubating females. A boy robbed 11 nests of eggs; 42 were rifled of their contents by snakes. A 54 inch specimen collected in one of the boxes last year after eating the young was identified by Dr. Jesse M. Shaver, Peabody College, as a Southern Pilot snake (Elaphe obsoleta obsoleta)."
Dr. Herbert Friedmann (1929) says that the bluebird is "a very uncommon victim" of the cowbird, and cites about 15 records. Later (1934) he reports seven additional records and states: "Although the bluebird is still to be considered a rather infrequent victim of the cowbird, it is by far the most often parasitized of hole-nesting birds." Mr. DuBois writes to me that he found five bluebirds' eggs and two cowbirds' eggs in a box in his yard; all the eggs hatched, except one bluebird's egg, which was found on the ground, punctured; the other six eggs hatched, but the sun was very hot and most of the young perished from the heat; one cowbird and possibly one bluebird survived, though he could not find the latter.
Dr. Musselman (1942) once found in one of his boxes a filthy nest with four half-grown bluebirds cuddled in the bottom; and above them was a two-thirds-grown starling sitting complacently on the smaller birds; "the droppings of the larger bird had soiled and in one case almost covered the head of one of the tiny birds below; one eye was entirely covered and there was a stench which is unusual about such a nest." He destroyed the young starling, washed the young bluebirds, rebuilt a clean nest and returned the young bluebirds to it; the mother bluebird accepted the change and raised her young successfully. "In the many years that I have carried on my Bluebird experiment, I have never before found a Starling roosting in or employing one of my boxes for a nest site. In fact, only upon three or four occasions have I found Cowbird eggs in the normal nest. Only when somebody has removed the top of a box thus allowing an approach of the female Cowbird through the aperture above has there been molestation on the part of the Cowbirds."
Competition for nesting sites is one of the bluebird's greatest troubles. House wrens have always been aggressive competitors, but the bluebirds have generally been able to resist them and sometimes to evict them. Edward R. Ford has sent me the following note: "When young bluebirds left the 6 by 7 by 7 inch nesting box, June 20, I cleaned it out at once. By noon of the same day, house wrens took possession and began filling it with twigs. A few days later I noticed that bluebirds were still about the box, and when I looked into it on June 29 it held three bluebird's eggs. When the second brood had flown, August 2, an investigation showed that the bluebirds had assumed ownership before the wrens had completed the usual true nest in the twig mass and had made a scanty one of their own with a few dry grass stems."
When the English sparrows came the bluebirds had to face a determined competition; often the bluebirds were more than a match for the sparrows; but when the sparrows came in groups or droves they were too much for the bluebirds to resist; fortunately, the sparrow population is not so formidable as it once was, since its numbers have declined some. But the introduction of the starling gave the bluebirds another setback; these large, powerful birds can easily drive out the bluebirds and occupy any of the larger cavities; many old apple orchards that formerly housed bluebirds are now preempted by starlings. Bluebirds are safe from these intruders, however, in many of the properly constructed bird boxes; if the entrance hole is not over 1 1/2 inches in diameter the starling cannot enter; but a 1 3/4-inch hole might allow the starling to use the box.
Bluebirds are generally able to contend with tree swallows, to drive them out or to defend their homes against them. A housing feud between these two species is mentioned above, under "Behavior." Flying squirrels, deer mice, and even bumble bees have been known to appropriate suitable cavities for bluebirds.
Harold S. Peters (1936) lists two species of lice, one fly, and two species of mites as external parasites of the eastern bluebird. Doubtless there are other forms of vermin that infest the nests.
I have left until last the bluebirds' most formidable enemy, Jack Frost, the agency that has destroyed more of them than all other enemies put together; countless thousands have succumbed to extreme cold, snowstorms, and cold, ice-forming rainstorms. Bluebirds seem to be very vulnerable to these elements in winter and even in spring. The most notable of these catastrophes occurred during the winter of 1894-95, the season of the "big freeze" in the southern states. Amos W. Butler (1898) describes the event as follows:
The weather was warm until after Christmas. December 27 and 28 it became quite cold in this latitude [Indiana]. The Bluebirds were forced farther southward beyond the limits of the severe weather. There it remained warm until late in January. On the 24th of that month the temperature as far south as South Carolina remained near the zero mark. It turned warmer that night and the next day, January 25, the weather was bright and clear. The day following was Friday. It rained, then snowed; the wind came down from the northwest with great velocity and the temperature fell rapidly. Everything was ice-bound or snow-bound to the Gulf of Mexico. Then followed weeks of unusual severity. By the end of the severe weather in April, it is said, but few Robins or Bluebirds could be found. The destruction of bird life must have been enormous. The Bluebirds seem to have been almost exterminated. Few, indeed, returned to their breeding grounds in the north and from many localities none were reported in the spring of 1895.
Bluebirds began to increase slowly during the next few years, but it was five or ten years later before they seemed to have reached normal numbers. A lesser reduction in their numbers in the East occurred as a result of the very cold winter of 1911-12 in the southeastern states, but this was more local in its effect, and the birds soon recovered from it. Dr. Musselman (1939) writes:
In the seven years that I have been banding and studying Bluebirds through the use of bird boxes, we have had three severe freezes in April after the majority of the Bluebirds had laid their full quota of eggs. Nearly always I found complements of frozen eggs deserted by the mother. Later, a second grass nest was built directly over the old eggs, then the new mother would begin her nesting activities. Seldom did the original mother return to her old nest. The unfortunate feature about such a catastrophe is not alone the destruction of fifteen hundred to two thousand eggs, but it is the fact that the nesting period is advanced by about two weeks. This means that these Bluebird boxes which are very much in demand by several types of birds have eggs in them at the time the House Wren (Troglodytes aedon) returns. The number of pierced eggs has been correspondingly large on the years of such freeze. During normal years the baby Bluebirds are in the nest at the time of the wrens' return. Generally they are not molested. On normal years the nesting is so timed that when the first batch of young Bluebirds desert the nest, the House Wrens have already established themselves elsewhere. When the Bluebirds return later for the second nesting, there is little danger that piercing of the second complement of eggs will take place.
In addition to the frozen and punctured eggs, he found on several occasions the frozen bodies of the incubating birds where they had died on their nests; and once two birds were found frozen to death in a single box.
Fall.--Dr. Winsor M. Tyler has sent me the following sketch: "Bluebirds are all along the roadsides this morning--a windless, warm, October day. They are gathered socially in companies of half a dozen or more and keep near together like a big family, one bird following another when it flies. They are quietly musical as they flit about, giving the gentle whit call, the softer chatter, the velvety turwy, and sometimes a phrase of song. It is easy to imagine that the bluebird's song was evolved from a repetition of the whit note, perhaps by way of the turwy; a slight change in the tone of voice making it mellower, louder, and sweeter, lengthening the notes a little, and there is the song.
"The birds perch on dead branches, wires, or fence rails, scanning the ground as from observation posts, sitting upright with the tail straight down; they explore holes in the apple trees, peering in, sometimes entering the cavities, calling to one another; they drop to the grass or to the hard, surfaced roadway where they catch up something with a deft peck. The bluebird's shadow at this season, the myrtle warblers, come down to the road, too, and act in the same way.
"In flight bluebirds are very charming at this time of year; a leisurely flip of the wing carries them along silently with just enough momentum to keep them afloat in the air, and they often sail for a long way, drifting along with open wings. In contrast to the goldfinches and purple finches they fly only a short distance before alighting again. We shall see few more bluebirds before winter comes. This little company is already on its way south, yet they seem in no hurry to leave New England. How leisurely the bluebirds are as they flit about in fall!"
Only in the northern part of its summer range can the fall migration be satisfactorily traced, but there it is sometimes quite conspicuous. Robie W. Tufts writes to me that bluebirds are uncommon in Nova Scotia, but during October 1937 a flock containing "some hundreds" was observed in Annapolis County. "These were seen at the peak of their abundance for only a short time, but bluebirds were seen more or less constantly for a few days after the main flight had passed. Considering the relative scarcity of these birds in Nova Scotia, the origin of same is a mystery to me."
In Massachusetts we usually see them passing through in October and November. Out in the open country on clear days with a northwest wind, we often hear their sad farewell notes drifting down around us from all directions; and, looking up into the blue sky, we see large numbers flying over, high in the air, widely scattered or in small detached flocks, and all floating along in a generally southward direction; we know that they are leaving us and we are sorry to see them go. They sometimes turn up in unexpected places; on November 1, 1915, a flock of eight appeared at our shooting club among the sand dunes of Monomoy Island; the next day they were joined by 10 more; these were two clear, warm days, but the following day it blew a gale from the northwest, with heavy clouds and some rain; the bluebirds had departed.
Edwin A. Mason writes to me from Groton, Mass., that on November 3, 1942, at 8:00 a.m., "it was raining, with a fairly strong wind blowing from the NNW. Birds from the tops of tall bare willows caught my ear. There, throughout the tips of the tree's branches, was a flock of bluebirds. They were moving occasionally from twig to twig, constantly talking back and forth. Very soon the major part of the flock took to the air. This made it possible to count them. The surprisingly large number of 28 were winging their way through the rain in a SSW direction, with the wind quartering them somewhat, but still substantially on their tail. Evidently the flock had paused to rest and despite the rain considered it a good time to continue on its migration. Three birds hesitated to join the flock, one of them starting out after it only to return. These three probably tired birds remained, calling back and forth, as the main body of their erstwhile traveling companions went winging away southward through the dull leaden sky, their voices and shapes gradually diminishing as the vastness of the murky sky enveloped them."
The flock observed by Mr. Mason was not "surprisingly large," for the birds are often seen in larger flocks, sometimes as many as a hundred, though usually more or less scattered. Late in summer and early in fall mixed flocks of old and young desert their breeding resorts and wander about the open country and woodland, often associated with similar flocks of roving robins, all of which are much wilder and more restless than they are about our grounds in nesting time. Bagg and Eliot (1937) state that, in the Connecticut Valley in Massachusetts, "in October, transient Bluebirds are abundant, and natives come back as if to say good-bye to their homes, and sometimes carry nesting material into their boxes, in that Indian summer of the procreative instincts that many birds evince on warm October days."
Referring to the Buckeye Lake region in Ohio, Milton B. Trautman (1940) writes: "The first southbound migrants were noted during the first half of September, and until the end of the month a rather gradual, daily increase in numbers was observed. The migration reached its peak in October, when the bird was as numerous as in spring. In autumn its lisping note, uttered from overhead or from a fence post or tree, was one of the most pleasing and familiar of all fall bird calls. The Eastern Bluebird was very conspicuous during the calm, warm 'Indian summer' days of late October--such weather was called 'bluebird weather' by local sportsmen."
At Point Pelee, Ontario, the migration is often conspicuous; on October 29, 1905, according to Taverner and Swales (1908), bluebirds were there in numbers. "Here numbers were feeding on the bare sand with the Prairie Horned Larks. It was in the waste clearings beyond Gardner's place, however, that the greatest numbers were found. Here they were in flocks almost as dense as blackbirds. When flushed from the ground they generally flew to some of the numerous clumps of bushes growing here and there in the open and, when they lit and were viewed from a little distance, they were in sufficient numbers to give the whole bush a decidedly blueish cast."
Winter.--A few bluebirds spend the winter in southern New England, especially in mild seasons and more commonly near the seacoast, feeding on bayberries with a few wintering myrtle warblers or on the seeds of sumacs. They take shelter in the dense growths of red cedars, which protect them from the cold winds and furnish some berries for food. They roost in hollow trees or in bird boxes, sometimes several together. Mr. Forbush (1929) cites William C. Wheeler, of Waltham, Mass., as having twice seen one go to roost in an old robin's nest. Dr. Harold B. Wood writes to me that bluebirds were common all through the winter of 1913-14 at Slocum, R.I., which is five miles west of Narragansett Bay in the central part of the state.
Bluebirds sometimes winter in the more northern parts of the midwestern states and even in southern Ontario. There are winter records for Point Pelee. And E. M. S. Dale says in his notes from London, Ontario: "Although the bluebird is one of our earliest spring migrants, it was not until December 27, 1937, that we found any here in winter. On that date we found four birds about a bit of marshy ground, where some springs had kept the snow melted and gave them a chance to obtain food. The ground was covered with snow; in fact, we were taking a hike on skis and snowshoes when we found them. The temperature had been down to 8o below zero a few nights before. They were still there on January 1 when we went out to begin our New Year's list."
From the Carolinas southward bluebirds are present all through the year, but they are probably not the same individuals, the local breeding birds having moved southward to be replaced by others driven down from the north. M. P. Skinner (1928) says: "This seems all the more probable because during cold spells I found Bluebirds gathered in large flocks of as many as seventy birds in most unusual places. They did not seem to be familiar with the country and its supplies of food and water. But with warmer weather these large flocks of strangers disappeared and the familiar birds were found again in the usual small groups."
In their winter resorts they are found in the more open woods, such as the flat pinewoods of Florida, seeking the denser growths only for shelter and spending most of their time for food in the more open places, such as cotton, corn, and sugarcane fields. In such places they are often associated with myrtle, pine, and the palm warblers.
A. L. Pickens tells me that "the sheltered nooks selected by individuals are interesting. A flock, I once observed, selected the cracks between the logs of a cabin in which cotton that had not been ginned was stored. Packed thus against the logs the cotton afforded a heat retainer, while the upper log gave shelter and the lower footing. One bird I saw took possession of an old summer-tanager nest for a winter dormitory."
M. G. Vaiden tells in his notes of a winter disaster not mentioned above: "For some reason, probably the terrific winter of 1906 when sleet was 4 to 6 inches deep over a great part of central Mississippi with a complete freeze-up of the ground for some 4 to 6 inches deep, when some trees were frozen and the trunks burst open, the bluebirds of this area, the normal breeding population, were frozen to death or died of hunger and thirst, and the nesting of the bluebird in the hill section certainly fell away considerably." He believes that the breeding birds of that area remain and mingle with the migrants from the north, rather than migrating farther south.
When all the vicissitudes with which bluebirds have to contend
are considered, it is not strange that there seem to be no records
of great longevity. Mrs. Laskey says in her notes: "So far
none of my banded nestlings have been found after three years. The
high rate of mortality through predation is doubtless the main
factor in this prevailing short life span. The oldest bluebird of
record in the Parks group is an adult female, banded May 1938 and
nesting there each year. Her latest capture was in April 1942,
when she was at least four years old. Another female, banded at my
home as an adult in April 1936, was retrapped each year until
November 4, 1939, when she was at least in her fifth year of
Eastern Bluebird* Sialia sialis
*Original Source: Bent, Arthur Cleveland. 1949. Smithsonian Institution United States National Museum Bulletin 196: 233-260. United States Government Printing Office
|
<urn:uuid:7a8d1371-f5ad-48f4-8f19-77dd73d404af>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.birdsbybent.com/ch21-30/bluebird.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783393332.57/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154953-00167-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.978667
| 15,986
| 3.4375
| 3
|
An overview of external advances
Technology has also had a major impact on our roads and the way we drive. Speed cameras and active traffic management have changed the roads on which we drive - and not always to the great pleasure of the motorist.
Despite all the technological changes, fossil fuels are still the prime source of power for the modern car.
Petrol and diesel remain the main fuels used over the past 20 years with Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) a distant third. In 1990 just 6%2 of new cars registered ran on diesel; in 2007 it was 40%3. Amongst the alternatives, hybrids - combining conventional petrol or diesel with an electric motor - have become the more widely accepted.
And in the last 6 months, the first Fuel Cell vehicles have been launched in California and Japan - fuel cells differ to batteries in that they create energy via a fuel, normally hydrogen, as opposed to just storing and discharging energy as is the case with batteries.
The future of car fuels will be looked at in more detail in the third 2008 RAC Report on Motoring.
SatNav and traffic information
SatNavs were originally developed by the United States military and have been fitted to cars since the early 90s. Traffic monitoring technology trials started on the M25 in May 1990. For the first time, monitoring traffic flows electronically and in 'real time', was possible. The secondary benefit of this was that the data could then be transmitted to cars, giving drivers the opportunity to change routes before getting caught in jams. Then, in 1999, SatNav, digital mobile phone and road traffic information technology was combined to create SmartNav. This enabled in-car SatNav devices to respond to traffic congestion and actively re-route drivers around the trouble spot.
Will the future continue to combine technologies to the greater benefit of the motorist? Will all cars be able to communicate with each other and provide real time information on what they are doing and what is happening on the road around them? If yes, combining satellite, mapping and traffic information technologies will keep drivers better informed and give a greater range of choices.
The key challenge for manufacturers then, is to make sure that these 'active' technologies do not distract motorists to such an extent they cause dangerous driving.
Speed monitoring and awareness
Speed cameras first appeared in the UK in 1992. Their deployment was designed to reduce accidents, injuries and deaths. But they have been contentious from day one, with many motorists viewing them as a way of raising revenue rather than enforcing safety measures.
This view is becoming more entrenched, with three in four motorists surveyed viewing speed cameras as revenue raisers, up from just over two thirds in 2006.
The Government is now taking steps to try and diffuse this negative perception by improving warning signage, as well as the visibility of the cameras themselves. First time speeding offenders in some counties can now attend speed awareness courses instead of collecting points on their licences and a fine.
More positively, almost three in five motorists believe average speed cameras have improved traffic management, even though they were introduced as a road safety measure. Four out of five also view speed awareness signs positively as a way of reducing drivers' speeds.
RAC calls for:
a nationwide audit of speed cameras to be carried out to ensure that each one can demonstrate a proven effect in reducing accidents and those which cannot, should be removed.
² ACAE new passenger car registrations breakdown by specifications: share of diesel.
³ SMMT Motor Industry Facts 2008.
Road and infrastructure engineering
What do drivers most want in their next car?
|
<urn:uuid:0a114a50-3fff-4aa4-9e32-55acf809ac90>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.rac.co.uk/advice/reports-on-motoring/rac-report-on-motoring-2008-technology/key-chapters/an-overview-of-external-advances
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783395548.53/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154955-00038-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.959863
| 727
| 3.328125
| 3
|
The Traditions of the Hopi, by H.R. Voth, , at sacred-texts.com
Alíksai! A very long time ago there was nothing here in the world but water. Only away off in the west where Hurúing Wuhti lived there was a small piece of land where she lived. She lived in a hill or bluff called Taláschomo. Hurúing Wuhti owned the moon, the stars, 2 and all the hard substances, such as beads, corals, shells, etc. Away in the east lived the Sun, painted up very beautifully. The Sun was very skillful. One time Hurúing Wuhti sent the Moon to the Sun, throwing him through (the intervening) space so that he fell down in front of the Sun. He told the Sun that Hurúing Wuhti wanted him; then he arose and passed through the sky back to the west. The Sun also soon rose and followed the Moon to the west, to the house of Hurúing Wuhti. "Have you come?" the latter said. "Yes, I have come. Why do you want me? I have come because you wanted me." "Thanks," the Hurúing Wuhti said, "thanks that you have come, my father, because you shall be my father." "Yes," the Sun said, "and you shall be my mother, and we shall own all things together." "Yes," Hurúing Wuhti said,
"now let us create something for you." "All right, thank you," the Sun replied.
Hereupon they entered another chamber which was very beautiful, and there all kinds of the skins of different kinds of animals and birds were hanging. So Hurúing Wuhti got out a bundle and placed it on the floor. It was a large piece of old native cloth (möchápu). She then placed on the floor all kinds of bird skins and feathers. Hereupon she rubbed her body and arms, rubbing off a great many small scales from her cuticle. These she took into her hands, rubbing the two palms of her hands together, and then placing these small scales on the feathers and skins. Hereupon she covered the whole with the möchápu. The Sun kindled a little fire at the east side of the pile. Hurúing Wuhti then took hold of two corners of the cloth and began to sing, moving the corners to the time of her singing. The Sun took hold of the other two corners and also waved them, but he did not sing. After they had waved the corners four times, the things under the covering commenced to move, and soon they began to emit sounds, whistling and chirping the way the different birds do. Hereupon Hurúing Wuhti took off the covering saying: "We are done, be it this way." There were all different kinds of birds, those that fly around in the summer when it is warm. As she took off the covering the birds commenced to fly, passed through the opening and flew out into the air, but soon all returned, gathering again in front of the two. "You shall own these," Hurúing Wuhti said to the Sun, "they are yours." "Thanks," the Sun replied, "that they are mine." Hurúing Wuhti then handed to the Sun a large jar made of a light transparent material like quartz crystal. Into this the Sun placed all the birds, closing up the jar.
Hereupon the Sun said: "Now, let us create something for you, too." "Very well," Hurúing Wuhti said. Then the Sun placed a small quantity of different kinds of hair on the floor. Furthermore, a little quantity of the different kinds of paints that he was painted up with. He then let his beard (rays) drop upon these objects, also shook his wings towards them. They then covered up the things again, each took hold of two corners of the covering, and the Sun then sang a song. Soon something began to move under the covering, and when they removed the latter an antelope, deer, cotton-tail rabbit, jack-rabbit, and mountain sheep jumped up, and after running around in the large room for a while, they returned and assembled again in front of the two. "You take these, you shall own them," the Sun said to Hurúing Wuhti. "All right, thank you," the latter said. Hereupon these animals took places close to the Hurúing
Wuhti, whom they considered as their mother afterwards. "You shall own these, they shall be yours," the Sun said once more to Hurúing Wuhti, for which she thanked him.
The latter then put the Sun into an opening in the floor of the house, through which the Sun departed with the vessel containing the birds. After having passed through the opening, the Sun returned under the earth to the east again, and when he came out he turned over the land which belonged to Hurúing Wuhti, and which had been under water, and by so doing made the world (tû'wakachi) land. The Sun at once noticed a great many beings come out of the water and moving. about on the shore of the land. He first called them the Water Lice (bá-atuhtu), but when he had risen to the middle of the sky he noticed that they were people, and he called them White People (Bahánas), some Spaniards (Castílians), and others Mormons (Mámona). He then poured out of the jar all the birds which then went flying around in the air and increased.
From this time on the Sun always went towards the west, entering the house of Hurúing Wuhti, passing out below, and returning to the east again. When he came there this time Hurúing Wuhti said: "Have you come?" "Yes," the Sun said. "Thanks," the Hurúing Wuhti replied, "let us create something again. What have you found out?" "Yes," the Sun said, "land has come out every where, and everything is beautiful, and the water is beautiful, too. Now, to-morrow when I shall rise there will be blossoms and flowers and grass all over the land. "Very well," Hurúing Wuhti said, "but let us make something now again. What shall we make?" Hereupon she fed the Sun honey, and other good food. When the Sun was through eating, Hurúing Wuhti again said: "Well, now, what shall we make? Let us use the covering again," placing the same covering that they had used upon the floor. Hereupon Hurúing Wuhti rubbed her legs and feet, rubbing off some more particles of cuticle. These she took into her hands, working them into a small ball, which she placed on the floor, and covered it up with the möchápu. They then again took hold of the four corners of the covering, Hurúing Wuhti singing a song. Soon something moved under the covering and the crying of a little child was heard, which soon said: "I am hot, am perspiring." They uncovered it and found a little maiden. "O my!" Hurúing Wuhti said: "Only one has been created. That is not good, it must not be this way." Hereupon she put on the covering again and, then repeated the song. Soon a second voice was heard, and removing the covering they found a little boy, the little brother of the mána. His first sound was a groan as that of a
small child. Hereupon he also said: "I am very warm," and wiped off the perspiration from his face and body. "Have you come?" Hurtling Wuhti said. "Yes, we have come. Thanks," she replied.
They were brother and sister. So the children sat up. "Have you anything to say?" Hurúing Wuhti asked them. "Yes," they said, "why do you want us?" "Yes," Hurúing Wuhti replied, "why my father, the Sun, has made a beautiful earth and I want you to live on this earth. That is why I want you. So I want you to go eastward now, and wherever you find a good piece of land, there you settle down. By and by others, too, shall come to you.'' Before they started the Sun asked Hurúing Wuhti who these two were, how they should be called? And Hurúing Wuhti named the youth Múyingwa, and the maiden Yáhoya. Hereupon the two started and left.
The Sun and Hurúing Wuhti prepared. to create some more. It was at this time still night. Hurúing Wuhti now rubbed her abdomen with both hands, and took from her umbilicus a small quantity of the scales which she twisted together. All this scaly matter, thus rubbed from her body, she then placed on the floor, covering it up with the aforesaid cloth. They again took hold of the corners, sang over it, and as they lifted up the corners the fourth time, something began to move under the covering. They took the covering off and there was another being all in perspiration. It was again a maiden. She wiped off the perspiration from her body with some sand that was on the floor, and sat up. Hurúing Wuhti told her not to rub her body any more, as the sand had already adhered to her body and the latter was dry. She hereupon told the maiden that she should be called Sand Clan member (Tuwá-wungwa), and Lizard Clan member (Kúkuts-wungwa). Hurúing Wuhti hereupon sent the maiden off after the other two, giving her, however, one grain of shelled corn before she left.
By this time it became a little lighter and the Sun said to Hurúing Wuhti, she should hurry up. So the latter this time rubbed her face, and the inside of her nose, and from the scales thus rubbed off she formed a little ball, placed it on the floor, and again covered it. They went through the same process as before. Soon they heard a child crying like a Hopi child would cry, and another one like the crying of a coyote. Removing the covering, they found a youth and a maiden, both also perspiring profusely and wiping off the perspiration. "Why do you want us?" the children asked. "Yes," Hurúing Wuhti said, "we have made this beautiful world here and there is hardly anybody living there yet, and that you should live here
somewhere we wanted you." She then said that the mána should be a Burrowing Owl Clan member (Kókop-wungwa), and the youth coyote Clan member (Ísh-wungwa). Hereupon she gave one grain of shelled corn to each one and told them now to follow the others, and that they should travel quickly.
Hereupon they created once more in the same manner as before. When they were ready to lift up the covering they heard somebody grunt, and another one seemed to be angry, so after they had partly lifted up the covering they dropped it again, but the two under it said, "Remove that, we are very hot." So they removed it and there was one child like a Hopi. It was the one that had grunted like a bear. To this one Hurúing Wuhti gave the name Bear-Clan member (Hón-wungwa). She gave a grain of shelled corn to him and sent him on. The other, Head-with-the-Hair-Pushed-over-it-Backward (Tálqöto), was a Navaho, and to him Hurúing Wuhti gave a little piece of spoiled meat-and sent him on. This is the reason why the Navaho use meat, instead of corn like the Hopi.
Hereupon the Sun again passed through the opening in the floor, returning to the east under the earth. The next day when he arose again and had traveled a distance, he saw in the distance smoke arising at different places, and noticed that the people who had been created were camping there. As he rose higher he saw at a distance a maiden and a youth who were traveling along, but seemed to be very tired. The maiden would sometimes carry her little brother on her back, then she would set him down and the two would join hands and travel along together. When the Sun came nearer he asked them: "Where do you come from? Who are you?" "Yes," they said, "We have come out away off there somewhere." "All right, the Sun said," you travel on." Hereupon he gave them water to drink and a little corn for food. He then said to the youth that he should be called Sun Clan member (Tawá-wungwa), and to the maiden he gave the name Forehead Clan member (Kál-wungwa), whereupon he told them to travel on east ward. The Sun and Forehead clans later came to Shupaúlavi, the Bear Clan to Shongópavi, and the Burrowing Owl Clan to Mishóngnovi, while the Sand Clan went to Wálpi. Múyingwa and his sister settled down somewhere west of a large spring situated south of Shongópavi.
5:1 Told by Kúhkiuma (Shupaúlavi).
5:2 This is the only instance where I have heard the moon and stars spoken of as being owned or controlled by Hurúing Wuhti. The informant did not know the songs mentioned in this tale.
|
<urn:uuid:27fd56f5-4839-4a35-8189-d3152ae43307>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.sacred-texts.com/nam/hopi/toth/toth003.htm
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397428.37/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00138-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.981633
| 2,924
| 2.734375
| 3
|
Balance is essential to the earth. Chemical cycles keep the amount of elements on the earth in a perfect balance.
The amount of oxygen in and around the earth is fixed. But this oxygen is fed again and again through the world's living systems in a never-ending circle called the oxygen cycle. Our needs are just part of this cycle. The cycle involves a continual exchange of gases between the air and animals and plants. In a process called respiration, animals and plants take oxygen from air and give back carbon dioxide. In a process called photosynthesis, plants take carbon dioxide from air and water and give back oxygen. Respiration and photosynthesis are effectively opposite processes. Respiration is an oxidation reaction, which takes oxygen from the air or from water. Photosynthesis is a reduction reaction. It adds oxygen gas to the air. Enormous quantities of oxygen are taken in by plants and animals every day, and huge quantities of oxygen are returned to the air by plants. These amount exactly balance so that overall the amount of oxygen in the air stays the same.
Carbon is essential for the chemical processes that support life. It plays such an important role in life that sometimes we say that life is "carbon-based". But there is only a limited amount of carbon on the earth. So carbon is constantly cycling around the earth, turning up in a lot of different forms and places. The reactions that move carbon around make up a giant web called the carbon cycle.
Plants get carbon by taking carbon dioxide from the air. They use the carbon dioxide and the energy from sunlight to make food. Animals get their carbon by eating those plants or by eating animals that have eaten those plants. When organisms breathe, they take oxygen from the air. During respiration, the oxygen reacts with food to provide energy. Respiration produces carbon dioxide which is released to the air.
Volcanic eruptions are a source of carbon. When a volcano erupts, it releases huge amounts of carbon dioxide. But remember--the earth needs it elements to stay in balance. So the effect of volcanoes is balanced by weathering which is a chemical reaction between rainwater and rocks that absorbs carbon dioxide from the air to create rock carbonate minerals. Left to themselves, these natural processes are in perfect balance. But human activities can disturb the cycle and increase the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. This could cause problems in the future because carbon dioxide is vital for controlling the world's climate.
Nitrogen atoms are constantly moving in a giant circle from the air, through the soil, into the bodies of plants and animals, and eventually back to the air. This whole process is called the nitrogen cycle. All living things need nitrogen to develop and grow. Even though the earth's atmosphere is made up of 78% nitrogen, plants and animals cannot use it in this form because the nitrogen atoms are too firmly bound together in molecules. So plants must draw their nitrogen from nitrogen compounds dissolved in the soil, and animals get their nitrogen by eating plants or by eating other animals that eat plants.
The nitrogen gets into the soil in a couple of different ways. A small quantity of the nitrogen found the soil by way of lightning. Lightning changes atmospheric nitrogen into nitrogen dioxide which is soluble in water. The nitrogen oxides dissolve in rainwater to form nitric acid which is absorbed by soil. The rest of the nitrogen in soil comes from bacteria. Bacteria are the only living things capable of getting nitrogen directly from the air. This is called "fixing". The process is started by certain kinds of bacteria in the soil that can extract nitrogen from the air. Then other bacteria convert the nitrogen into nitrogen compounds called nitrates, This process is called nitrification. Plants absorb the nitrates and turn them into more complex nitrogen compounds. Bacteria also help return nitrogen to the air. Bacteria in the soil decompose animal waste and the remains of dead animals and plants and produce ammonia. Nitrifying bacteria turn the ammonia into nitrates. Other bacteria, called denitrifying bacteria, convert some of the nitrates back into nitrogen gas, which is released into the air. All these different steps form a massive cycle. The effect is that, over time, bacteria in the soil return almost the same amount of nitrogen to the air as other bacteria take from the air. This keeps the nitrogen content of the earth and its atmosphere in a perfect balance.
Unfortunately, humans are interfering with the natural balance when they overuse artificially produced nitrates as agricultural fertilizers. Before these nitrates can be converted into atmospheric nitrogen, they are often carried off from the soil by rain or irrigation. These dissolved nitrates are carried to streams and rivers and even seep down to groundwater. In some parts of the world, water for humans and animals contains such high concentrations of nitrates that it is unsafe for consumption. These excessive amount of nitrates, when they reach rivers and lakes, cause too much algae to grow. This over-abundance of algae uses up too much of the oxygen in the water. When oxygen levels fall, other forms of life in the water die off.
Sample some of the following activities to learn more about chemical cycles.
The following are places to go (some real and some virtual) to find out about chemical cycles.
This site provides a brief overview of the properties associated with the atmosphere. Take a tour of the earth's atmosphere to learn about the nitrogen cycle.
Visit a corn field in Iowa to learn about the oxygen cycle. An average hectare (100 acres) of corn produces enough oxygen per hectare per day in mid summer to meet the respiratory needs of about 325 people.
Visit the periodic table on the web.
Visit this interactive periodic table with element scarcity (SRI), discovery dates, melting and boiling points, group, block and period information.
Visit Reeko's Mad Scientist Lab. It's a source of science experiments for parents, teachers, and students. Protective goggles are required.
Travel to worldwide volcanoes to learn about the carbon cycle. Volcanic eruptions emit huge amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. These emissions are balanced by a chemical reaction between rainwater and rocks. The rocks absorb carbon dioxide to create rock carbonate minerals.
Send your questions about chemical cycles to scientists.
Visit with the Chemical of the Week.
Read what this ecologist has to say about how human activities impact critical global cycles.
Find out where carbon fits in the periodic table and how it is essential for life on earth.
Nitrogen is tricky. Learn more about it. All living things need nitrogen to survive.
Learn about the patterns and relationships between chemicals, the environment, and human health.
Click your way through the periodic table. Is the symbol for carbon C, Ca, or Co?
This page focuses on the science and impacts of global warming or climate change, and on actions that help address climate change issues.
Learn more about eutrophication. Eutrophication is water/lake pollution caused by excessive nutrients such as nitrogen. It's what happens when humans interfere with the nitrogen cycle.
Learn about the exchange of carbon between the atmosphere and vegetation and between the oceans and the atmosphere.
There are four processes involved in the cycling of nitrogen. Learn more about nitrogen fixation, decay, nitrification, and denitrification.
Find out how animal waste and overuse of chemical fertilizers interfere with the nitrogen cycle.
Although about 78% of the earth's atmosphere is composed of nitrogen, it cannot be used directly by most organisms. Learn about the process that makes nitrogen available to sustain plant and animal life.
Water cycle, oxygen cycle, nitrogen cycle, carbon cycle—find out how these necessary cycles are essential for all processes of life.
Have some fun with this interactive periodic table.
According to this site, "Photosynthesis is the beginning of the amazing journey of energy and the basic materials of life." Find out what this means in terms of the oxygen cycle.
Find out about the Greenhouse Effect. Humans interfering with the carbon cycle are what cause it.
A series of interdisciplinary, problem-based learning (PBL) modules for high school students.
The Windows to the Universe website is a richly interlinked ecosystem for learning about the Earth and Space sciences for use by the general public, students, and teachers.
Geography4Kids.com! The web site that teaches physical geography and earth science basics to everyone!
- Blashfield, Jean F. Nitrogen. Austin, Tex.: Raintree Steck-Vaughn, 1999.
- Blashfield, Jean F. Oxygen. Austin, Tex.: Raintree Steck-Vaughn, 1999.
- Farndon, John. Nitrogen. New York: Benchmark Books, c1999.
- Farndon, John. Oxygen. New York: Benchmark Books, c1999.
- Fitzgerald, Karen. The Story of Nitrogen. New York: Franklin Watts, c1997.
- Fitzgerald, Karen. The Story of Oxygen. New York: F. Watts, c1996.
- Milne, Lorus Johnson. Nature's Great Carbon Cycle. New York: Atheneum, c1983.
- Sparrow, Giles. Carbon. New York: Benchmark Books, 1999.
|
<urn:uuid:586509fe-0cac-4ecf-b158-b4c9f50720a0>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.uen.org/themepark/cycles/chemical.shtml
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397428.37/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00145-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.925494
| 1,906
| 4.09375
| 4
|
How to Choose and Use a Cane
What kind of cane should I choose? Your caregiver will help you choose the right cane for your needs. Canes are made from wood, plastic, or metal. A cane can be adjusted to fit your height. The bottom of the cane usually has a nonskid rubber tip to prevent it from slipping. The following are common kinds of canes:
Standard canes have a rounded crook handle. Use a cane with a wooden or plastic handle instead of metal. A metal handle may slip from your hand. In cold weather, the metal handle may get too cold for you to touch.
Straight-handle canes , or T-handle canes, are used if your hand is weak.
Broad-based canes are lightweight canes with 3 or 4 short legs. These legs give you the most support. You may need this type of cane if it is hard for you to keep your balance.
How do I use the cane?
To walk on flat floors:
- Put the cane about 4 inches (10 cm) to the side of your stronger leg.
- Put weight on your stronger side.
- Move the cane about 4 inches (10 cm) in front of your stronger leg and bring your weaker leg forward at the same time.
- Use the cane to help keep your weight off your weaker leg and move your stronger leg ahead.
- Place your heel a little beyond the tip of the cane.
To use on stairs: Ask your caregiver to show you how to safely use your cane on stairs. Do not use your cane on the stairs unless someone is with you.
To get into a chair:
- Stand with the back of your legs against the chair seat.
- Rest the cane against the chair.
- Reach back with both hands to grip the chair arms.
- Lift your weaker leg slightly off the floor.
- Put all your weight on your stronger leg.
- Slowly sit down and slide back into the chair.
To get out of a chair:
- Hold your cane with your stronger hand.
- Grasp the arms of the chair.
- Put your stronger foot a little forward.
- Lean slightly forward and push on the arms of the chair to raise yourself.
- Stand with your cane about 4 inches (10 cm) to the side of your stronger foot.
What are some cane safety tips I should know?
Wear shoes with rubber soles , such as tennis shoes. Slippers should not be worn because they can slide off your feet and cause a fall. Do not wear shoes with leather heels or soles that may slide.
Check the floor to be sure it is safe. The floor must be clean, dry, and well lit. Remove throw rugs to prevent falls. Tape or nail down loose carpet edges. Keep the traffic areas and the floor free of clutter.
Stand for a few seconds before you start to walk with your cane. This will help prevent dizziness.
Look straight ahead when you walk. You may run into or trip over something if you look at your feet.
Use a backpack or a bag with a long strap that you can wear across your body. This will keep your hands free. Try not to carry heavy things.
You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your caregivers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
© 2015 Truven Health Analytics Inc. Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes. All illustrations and images included in CareNotes® are the copyrighted property of A.D.A.M., Inc. or Truven Health Analytics.
|
<urn:uuid:2b55f38c-1a50-41a6-a65e-60ffd6f3329e>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.allinahealth.org/mdex/ND2525G.HTM
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783395160.19/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154955-00183-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.916529
| 832
| 2.84375
| 3
|
PatientPlus articles are written by UK doctors and are based on research evidence, UK and European Guidelines. They are designed for health professionals to use, so you may find the language more technical than the condition leaflets.
Synonyms: protruding ears, bat ears.
The physical problem
Prominent ears are an inherited problem affecting 1-2% of the population (although the diagnosis is somewhat subjective and this figure depends on what is considered to be a prominent ear). It may be unilateral or bilateral and arises as a result of lack (or malformation) of cartilage during primitive ear development in intrauterine life. The external ear anatomy is intricate, with thin skin and resilient cartilage. The ear subsequently has abnormal helical folds or grows laterally. Occasionally, folds seen at birth resolve spontaneously.
Prominent ears do not tend to improve and about 30% of babies who have prominent ears are born with normal-looking ears with the problem only arising in the first three months of life. This may be exacerbated when the soft cartilage is repeatedly bent over, particularly during breast-feeding. There are no functional problems associated with prominent ears.
- Add notes to any clinical page and create a reflective diary
- Automatically track and log every page you have viewed
- Print and export a summary to use in your appraisal
The psychological problem
The psychological distress caused by prominent ears can be considerable. The main clinical significance of prominent ears is the aesthetic problems, which can lead to a reduced quality of life, reduced self-esteem, social avoidance behaviour and poor performance in school. Teasing at school causes both short-term unhappiness and a potential long-term impact on perception of self-image and self-worth. Children and adults alike with ears that stick out may experience a damaged psyche secondary to outside ridicule and self-criticism.
Prior to 6 months of age, the ear cartilage is very soft and may be amenable to moulding and splinting. Bandaging and taping have been used in the past but now sophisticated splints have been designed to correct problems more specifically.
Ear splintage can be a very effective technique for treatment of neonates with deformational auricular anomalies. After 6 months, surgical correction is the only option.
There is still uncertainty about the spontaneous course of prominent ears as well as at what age to start using ear splints, how long to continue them and how effective they are in the long term. As the risks are so minimal, ear splints are often recommended for a trial in infants.
Referring for surgery
Pinnaplasty or otoplasty can be carried out in the child from about 5 years of age - there is a balance to strike between doing it before the child goes to school (with possible teasing or bullying) and allowing enough time to see if the child perceives it as a problem - the latter is more likely to be co-operative with surgery and to be happier with results. The operation can also be carried out on adult patients.
Once the decision is made, referral can be made either to the local ear, nose and throat (ENT) team or to a plastic surgeon. The procedure is usually available on the NHS to children; most adults have to go privately unless the person can be shown to be in extreme psychological distress, in which case decisions are made on an individual basis.
- Anaesthetic - usually done under general anaesthesia in children and local anaesthesia in adults. However, otoplasty can be performed safely and effectively under local anaesthesia in children as young as 5 years of age.
- There are different techniques available. Cartilage-sparing techniques or percutaneous adjustable closed otoplasty (PACO) may be considered; the choice of operation may depend on the amount and type of cartilage involved for the operation.
- In prominent ear deformities with soft cartilage, PACO should be the preferred surgical choice because of its advantages of shorter time in surgery, lack of need for prolonged postoperative compressive dressing, and also of allowing patients to view the results immediately after surgery.
- Incisionless otoplasty has been shown to be a well-tolerated and effective operation which can be performed on both paediatric and adult patients. This procedure is less invasive than the open operation and is associated with minimal complications.
- A modification of an incisionless otoplasty can be performed in adults with local anaesthesia with excellent results. After the operation, patients can return to their daily activities immediately. It is associated with a low complication rate and high patient satisfaction.
- Postoperative care varies according to local practice:
- Some patients may be advised to wear a protective headband for several weeks afterwards (particularly at night).
- Hair can be washed after 14 days; patients should be advised to take particular care in cleaning that area and drying it well afterwards.
- Swimming should be avoided for at least two weeks (ideally wait 4-6 weeks). Contact sports should be avoided for eight weeks.
- Patients can travel by plane at any time after the procedure.
- Generally rare (no more than 5% in total).
- Those associated with a general anaesthetic.
- Development of keloid scars.
- Numbness of the ear(s), which may take several weeks to resolve.
- Asymmetry between the ears.
- Haematoma - seek advice from the operating team (patients sometimes need to return to theatre for clot removal).
- Dehiscence - if not secondary to infection, a small gap can usually heal with appropriate dressing (done by the operating team).
- Infection - if severe, this can lead to complete wound breakdown and the cartilage may get involved, so giving rise to long-term deformities which may need a further procedure to correct them.
This condition does not resolve spontaneously. After the age of 6 months, surgical correction is currently the only available method of addressing it.
There is generally an excellent rate of satisfaction after successful surgery, with reports of improved self-esteem, social life and leisure activities. Psychological problems associated with prominent ears can be reduced by means of appropriate corrective surgery.
Following otoplasty, parents have reported a significant improvement in their children's health-related quality of life.
Further reading & references
- Handler EB, Song T, Shih C; Complications of otoplasty. Facial Plast Surg Clin North Am. 2013 Nov;21(4):653-62. doi: 10.1016/j.fsc.2013.08.001.
- Schonauer F, La Rusca I, Molea G; Non-surgical correction of deformational auricular anomalies. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg. 2009 Jul;62(7):876-83. Epub 2008 May 19.
- Braun T, Hempel JM, Berghaus A; Developmental disorders of the ear in children and adolescents: conservative and surgical treatment options. Dtsch Arztebl Int. 2014 Feb 7;111(6):92-8. doi: 10.3238/arztebl.2014.0092.
- Setting back prominent ears; British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons
- Laberge LC; Local anesthesia for otoplasty in children. Clin Plast Surg. 2013 Oct;40(4):671-86. doi: 10.1016/j.cps.2013.07.007. Epub 2013 Aug 22.
- Ozturan O, Dogan R, Eren SB, et al; Cartilage-sparing techniques versus percutaneous adjustable closed otoplasty for prominent ear deformity. J Craniofac Surg. 2014 May;25(3):752-7. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000000828.
- Ozturan O, Dogan R, Eren SB, et al; Percutaneous adjustable closed otoplasty for prominent ear deformity. J Craniofac Surg. 2013 Mar;24(2):398-404. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0b013e31827ff103.
- Mehta S, Gantous A; Incisionless Otoplasty: A Reliable and Replicable Technique for the Correction of Prominauris. JAMA Facial Plast Surg. 2014 Sep 11. doi: 10.1001/jamafacial.2014.552.
- Haytoglu S, Haytoglu TG, Yildirim I, et al; A modification of incisionless otoplasty for correcting the prominent ear deformity. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2014 Oct 14.
- Protruding ears/bat ears/pinnaplasty; ENT UK
- Songu M, Kutlu A; Long-term psychosocial impact of otoplasty performed on children with prominent ears. J Laryngol Otol. 2014 Sep;128(9):768-71. doi: 10.1017/S0022215114001662. Epub 2014 Aug 13.
- Hao W, Chorney JM, Bezuhly M, et al; Analysis of health-related quality-of-life outcomes and their predictive factors in pediatric patients who undergo otoplasty. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2013 Nov;132(5):811e-817e. doi: 10.1097/PRS.0b013e3182a3c133.
Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. EMIS has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions.
Dr Olivia Scott
Dr Louise Newson
Dr Helen Huins
|
<urn:uuid:25164c59-5a11-4fbb-8a1b-9ec8e408d72b>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://patient.info/doctor/prominent-ears
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783398628.62/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154958-00005-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.907855
| 2,071
| 3.390625
| 3
|
In this practical, you will attempt to treat your own dirty water, make qualitative observations of the results at various stages and then suggest improvements. Read the practical, and identify the separation and purification techniques used.
Please Rate and Leave Comments.
Step 1: Aim and Materials
Aim: To separate mud from water using filtration, but also purify the water afterwards.
Dried Dirt (from the ground)
x2 See Through Glasses
Water From The Tap
x2 Filter paper
|
<urn:uuid:d67b7ea4-46ca-4e90-ab09-05e9698c2cd4>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.instructables.com/id/Filtration-Experiment-Clean-Your-Own-Dirty-Water/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783396945.81/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154956-00166-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.837277
| 103
| 2.8125
| 3
|
World History as a Way of Thinking
Eric Lane Martin
World historians should consider the cultivation of the kinds of thinking
skills required to understand global relationships as one of the field's
more important contributions to both knowledge and society. World history
scholars, teachers, and students practice a way of thinking that can help
people understand how their communities are connected with other communities
around the world, and how these connections have developed historically.
This is a practical style of thought that is in demand on our campuses,
in our communities, and in our current public policy debates. It is time
for us to conceptualize world history as not only 'what' we choose to study,
but also 'how' we approach a topic in the first place. In this sense the
development of global thinking skills are an important prerequisite to a
successful study of any world history content.
The 2004 closure of Northeastern's World History
Center marks the conclusion of the most visible effort in the last decade
to formally develop a doctoral level program in world history. The program's
emphasis on world history as a primary field of historical research was
unique among Ph.D. programs offering graduate training in world history.
In the pages that follow I do not describe a 'Northeastern School of World
History,' a notion that Program Director Patrick Manning purposely avoided
in an effort to be theoretically and methodologically inclusive and exploratory
rather than definitive. Instead, I offer a conceptualization of 'world history
as a way of thinking' in order to describe the most distinguishing features
of the Northeastern program which drew upon multiple world-historical approaches.
Perhaps the most distinguishing intellectual characteristic of those who
completed the program is a tendency to think about the big picture first
and to identify themselves primarily as specialists in the use of wide-angle
historical lenses. My focus on graduate education is designed to emphasize
the benefit of continuing to train at least a few specialists in using the
historical wide-angle lens. But my description of world history as a way
of thinking has broader applications than to those engaged in specialized
graduate study in world history. I also argue that the most important things
the field of world history has to offer the researcher, teacher, student,
and general public are the conceptual tools required for understanding complex
global processes and problems.
The field of world history has many developed bodies of specialized literature,
which have been the subject of several excellent historiographical surveys
in the last decade. Jerry Bentley's Shapes of World History in Twentieth-Century
Scholarship, for example, provides a succinct account of the major scholarly
works and trends that have influenced the field in the last century.1 Patrick Manning covers much of the same
ground in his 425 page monograph, Navigating World History, but in
a much more detailed and comprehensive fashion.2
Manning also emphasizes issues related to research method, doctoral training,
and the general direction of world history as a research field. Ross Dunn's
edited reader, The New World History, provides critical selections
from many of the works discussed by both Bentley and Manning.3 Indeed, Bentley, Manning, and Dunn have
each created indispensable reference works which will continue to shape
the way we understand the field for years to come.4
|Scholars, teachers, and students interested in seriously engaging the historical traditions of the field should begin with these three works. Together, they provide a historiographical road map to the most important developments in world history scholarship for the last century. In the rest of this essay, I will describe the ways in which deep engagement with this literature at the graduate level cultivates a distinctive way of thinking about historical problems and issues.||4|
The Questions Asked
When doctoral students specialize in world history as a primary field of
study, they specialize in a body of literature which models and promotes
thinking about historical problems in two characteristic ways. The first
characteristic revolves around the kinds of questions world historians ask.
As the late world historian Marshall Hodgson argued, the distinctions between
the social science disciplines, and even between historical sub-fields,
are not a matter of method or topic but, rather, concern the types of questions
scholars ask about their material.5
So, following 'the Hodgson principle,' what kinds of questions do world
historians tend to ask?
Forty-two years ago William McNeill asked why 'the
West' came to dominate so much of the world.6
Nearly a decade later, Alfred Crosby asked what the most important consequences
of 1492 were.7 More recently, Philip Curtin examined
how New World plantations shaped global politics and economics in the early
modern period.8 Jerry Bentley asked how cross-cultural
encounters worked in pre-modern times.9 Ross Dunn wondered how
Afro-Eurasia looked to a fourteenth-century Muslim traveler.10
Patrick Manning asked what forced African migration to the Americas looked
like when placed first in an American, then African, and finally global
perspective.11 Daniel Headrick examined the role of technology in
nineteenth-century European imperialism.12 Walter Rodney explored the relationship
between an overdeveloped Europe and an underdeveloped Africa.13
Immanuel Wallerstein wanted to know what made the modern world distinct
from previous historical periods.14 Eric Wolf asked if nations or societies
were satisfactory units of historical analysis for understanding large scale
processes.15 David Christian wonders
what the history of the world really means when placed into the context
of the history of the universe.16
Of course, the above are a mere sampling of some
of the key scholars in the field and necessarily represent an oversimplified
version of the questions they asked. But they do allow us to see that the
questions of world historians are qualitatively different from the kinds
of questions asked by historians who focus on particular areas. As a whole,
the literature of world history deals with questions related to what Marshall
Hodgson called historical complexes -- large-scale, overlapping historical
processes.17 I will limit myself to three brief examples to better
illustrate the nature of historical complexes. First, in The Rise and
Fall of the Plantation Complex Philip Curtin explains that "[h]istorians
of the medieval Mediterranean, of Africa, of Latin America, of Europe, of
the United States all deal with parts or aspects of the [plantation] complex,
but they rarely try to see it as a whole."18
By contrast, Curtin sought to explore the plantation complex itself rather
than a particular geographic region's role in it, which in turn required
a wide-angle historical lens in order to look for answers. Second, in Tools
of Empire Daniel Headrick questions why "the progress and power of industrial
technology" and "the domination and exploitation of Africa and much of Asia
by Europeans" have been so well examined separately, while relatively few
efforts have been made to connect these two important phenomena in world
his questions require a historical lens that is wider than those usually
employed by historians who focus on a particular area. Third, in The
Columbian Exchange Alfred Crosby tells us that "[t]he first step to
understanding man is to consider him as a biological entity which has existed
on this globe, affecting, and in turn affected by, his fellow organisms,
for many thousands of years."20
The questions Crosby asked required him to not only to think more widely
than historians trained to focus on particular regions or nations, but also
to consider humans as biological entities. Asking these kinds of broad-based,
wide-ranging questions—questions that place events and problems in
their global context—is a defining characteristic of both good world
history research and teaching. It is also a defining feature of those who
specialize in the world history literature at the doctoral level.
The complex nature of the kinds of historical questions
world history Ph.D. candidates are likely to propose as dissertation topics
can—and should—be well-grounded in the literature of regional
and area-based fields. However, they frequently do not gain intellectual
support from faculty trained to think about fundamentally different types
of historical questions relating to their particular region or area. This
scenario provides the recipe for potentially problematic dissertation committees.21
It is important, therefore, that programs engaged in doctoral training in
world history understand that their candidates will produce fundamentally
different kinds of dissertations than those produced by more regionally-focused
programs. The world history literature promotes thinking about history from
a distinctly global point of view. As a result, doctoral students in the
field will no doubt challenge current area-specific models of what a history
dissertation should look like by asking bigger, and qualitatively different,
questions. Faculty should be prepared for such shifts in conceptual terrain.
The Models Developed
The second characteristic of the type of thinking that the world history
literature promotes revolves around the kinds of problem-solving techniques
world historians utilize to answer their own questions. The world history
literature contains numerous models for approaching complex, world historical
questions. For example, William McNeill explained the rise of the west by
combining Arnold Toynbee's principle of 'challenge and response' with ideas
about the diffusion of technologies and skills. Meanwhile, Marshall Hodgson
utilized what he described as 'hemispheric interregional world history'
to develop a more complete understanding of the historical complex of the
dar al-Islam. Philip Curtin, by contrast, has made clear arguments
for a comparative world historical approach. The 'Columbian Exchange' model
developed by Alfred Crosby was groundbreaking in the fields of both world
history and environmental history. Indeed, the term itself has become part
of the historical vocabulary in both fields. Walter Rodney utilized a model
of underdevelopment, Emmanuel Wallerstein envisioned a world-system with
a hyphen, Andre Gunder-Frank employed a notion of a world system without
a hyphen, Jim Blaut constructed a model of intellectual colonialism, and
Christian theorized a 'Big History' model.
Again, this is only the tip of the conceptual iceberg.
The point, however, is that those who specialize in world history are exposed
to numerous models that offer guidance on such issues as thinking about
several different historical variables (such as multiple places) at once,
using relationships and connections as units of analysis, breaking down
complex processes into interrelated component parts, connecting the local
to the global and vice versa, and developing new categories and models of
analysis. The intellectual possession of a conceptual tool box customized
for building answers to complex global questions is another defining intellectual
feature of both good world history research and teaching. Doctoral training
in world history offers the additional opportunity to practice developing
original conceptual tools for addressing problems at the global level.
Just as faculty involved with world history Ph.D.
programs should expect to see their students ask conceptually different
dissertation questions, they should also expect their students to address
these questions by utilizing the conceptual tools and models provided by
the world history literature. Indeed, explicitly connecting the approach
to global questions to the historiography of the field is of critical importance.
A world history dissertation that is grounded in the literature of the field
more clearly conveys to the rest of the discipline how the historiography
of the field can be utilized for theory and methodology. Thus, faculty trained
in the field of world history will be in the best position to help doctoral
students clearly identify their historical approach and methodology.
Wider Applications of World History as a Way of Thinking
World historians practice a way of thinking defined by these two sets of
characteristics: the inclination to ask big questions about how the world
works as a whole and the interest in developing innovative techniques to
answer such large-scale, complicated questions. Thus far, world history
as a way of thinking has been primarily described as an intellectual characteristic
shared by professional scholars engaged in the field. However, there is
a much wider demand for the kinds of thinking skills that world historians
practice. For example, world historians have developed ways of thinking
about the kinds of big-picture questions currently being asked by the U.S.
public, including why the attacks of September 11, 2001 occurred, and how
effective the war on terrorism has been in decreasing the chances of a repeat
disaster. There is public concern as well about whether the U.S. is a liberating
force or an occupying power in Iraq, and whether or not Iraq is 'another
Vietnam.' Americans are wondering about the causes of—and the solutions
to—the economic problems facing our communities in a globalizing economy,
and why people in some countries are rich and poor in others. They are asking
about the relationships between producers and consumers, and about the nature
of globalization and how it affects communities. World historians practice
a way of thinking that provides the conceptual tools to address questions
of such magnitude and complexity: few other fields can say the same.
|Of course, the world history literature does not hold a monopoly on good models for developing the ability to think about the connections between the local and the global. In fact, many of the key conceptual founders of the field came from disciplines outside of history. Yet world history is committed to exploring global connections systematically and in a self-reflective way, which in turn has become the hallmark of the field. Indeed, the most distinctive feature of the Northeastern world history program was the encouragement of world history as a way of thinking. Any program interested in building upon the Northeastern model should begin with this feature.||13|
In conclusion, the most important things the field
of world history has to offer the researcher, teacher, student, and general
public are the conceptual tools required for addressing complex global processes
and problems. We should highlight our distinctive set of analytical thinking
tools in our research, in our classrooms, and in our communities. Perhaps
conceptualizing world history as a way of thinking makes this task a little
Biographical Note: Eric Martin is an assistant professor of history
at Lewis-Clark State College in Lewiston, Idaho. He teaches both sections
of the world history survey, African history, historical method, political/social
philosophy as well as courses on the history of globalization in the inland/pacific
northwest. He received his Ph.D. from Northeastern University in 2002
and is one of the Editors of H-World. Eric also sits on the board of directors
of a low powered FM community radio station in Moscow, Idaho KRFP.
1 Jerry H. Bentley, Shapes of World History in Twentieth-Century Scholarship (Washington, D.C.: American Historical Association, 1995).
2 Patrick Manning, Navigating World History: Historians Create a Global Past (New York: Palgrave Macmillan, 2003).
3 Ross E. Dunn, The New World History: A Teacher's Companion (Boston: Bedford/St. Martin's, 2000).
4 See also Marnie Hughes-Warrington's new book, Palgrave Advances in World History (New York: Palgrave MacMillan, 2005).
5 Marshall Hodgson, "Historical Method in Civilizational Studies," in Edmund Burke III, editor, Rethinking World History: Essays on Europe, Islam, and World History (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1993), 73.
6 William H. McNeill, The Rise of the West: A History of the Human Community (Chicago: The University of Chicago Press, 1963, reprinted version 1992).
7 Alfred Crosby, The Columbian Exchange: Biological and Cultural Consequences of 1492 (Westport, Connecticut: Greenwood Press, 1972).
8 Philip D. Curtin, The Rise and Fall of the Plantation Complex: Essays in Atlantic History (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2nd edition, 1998).
9 Jerry Bentley, Old World Encounters: Cross-Cultural Contacts and Exchanges in Pre-modern Times (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1993).
10 Ross E. Dunn, The Adventures of Ibn Battuta: A Muslim Traveler of the 14th Century (Berkeley: University of California Press, 1986).
11 Patrick Manning, "Migrations of Africans to the Americas: The Impact on Africans, Americans, and the New World," The History Teacher 26m (May 1993), 279-96.
12 Daniel R. Headrick, The Tools of Empire: Technology and European Imperialism in the Nineteenth Century (New York: Oxford University Press, 1981).
13 Walter Rodney, How Europe Underdeveloped Africa (Washington D.C.: Howard University Press, 1972, revised edition 1981).
14 Immanuel Wallerstein, The Modern World-System I: Capitalist Agriculture and the Origins of the European World-Economy in the Sixteenth Century (San Diego: Academic Press, 1974); see also Wallerstein's The Modern World-System II: Mercantilism and the Consolidation Of the European World-Economy, 1600-1750 (Boston: Academic Press, Inc., 1980) and The Modern World-System III: The Second Era of Great Expansion of the Capitalist World-Economy, 1730-1840s (Boston: Academic Press, Inc., 1989).
15 Eric Wolf, Europe and the People without History (Berkley: University of California Press, 1982, reprint edition 1997).
16 David Christian, "The Case for 'Big History,'" Journal of World History 2 (Fall 1991), 223-38. See also his Maps of Time: An Introduction to Big History (Berkeley: University of California Press, 2004).
17 Hodgson defines historical complexes in the following way: "Whenever we find sequences of historical events interrelated in such a way that significant questions of substance (not, normally, abstract comparisons of categories) in regard to one of the sequences involves answers about all of them, we may regard what we have as a historical complex, whether it is a region with diverse cultural elements which closely interact (for instance, Buddhist-Hindu-Muslim Southeast Eurasia), or a single cultural tradition spread widely (for instance, Islamic culture From Java to the Niger), or a set of developments in a single tradition across many culture lines (for instance, The Greek-Arabic-Sanskrit-Chinese-Latin mathematical tradition)." Hodgson, Rethinking World History, 256-257.
18 Curtin, x.
19 Headrick, 3.
20 Crosby, xiii.
21 It should be noted that there is movement towards world history by scholars in some area-based fields. This is especially true of historians dealing with issues of colonialism/imperialism in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. In fact, scholars of Africa, such as Phil Curtin, Pat Manning, Ross Dunn, Walter Rodney and Immanuel Wallerstein have been especially instrumental in developing the field of world history.
|Home | List Journal Issues | Table of Contents|
|© 2008 by the Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois|
|
<urn:uuid:2b7d4983-efe5-4826-9262-6a87a34e1921>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://worldhistoryconnected.press.illinois.edu/2.2/martin.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783403508.34/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624155003-00082-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.895707
| 4,005
| 2.53125
| 3
|
Qualitative assessment of the diet of European eel larvae in the Sargasso Sea resolved by DNA barcoding
Publication: Research - peer-review › Journal article – Annual report year: 2010
European eels (Anguilla anguilla) undertake spawning migrations of more than 5000 km from continental Europe and North Africa to frontal zones in the Sargasso Sea. Subsequently, the larval offspring are advected by large-scale eastward ocean currents towards continental waters. However, the Sargasso Sea is oligotrophic, with generally low plankton biomass, and the feeding biology of eel larvae has so far remained a mystery, hampering understanding of this peculiar life history. DNA barcoding of gut contents of 61 genetically identified A. anguilla larvae caught in the Sargasso Sea showed that even the smallest larvae feed on a striking variety of plankton organisms, and that gelatinous zooplankton is of fundamental dietary importance. Hence, the specific plankton composition seems essential for eel larval feeding and growth, suggesting a linkage between eel survival and regional plankton productivity. These novel insights into the prey of Atlantic eels may furthermore facilitate eel larval rearing in aquaculture, which ultimately may replace the unsustainable use of wild-caught glass eels.
|Citations||Web of Science® Times Cited: No match on DOI|
|
<urn:uuid:d9526c6c-fe37-4147-9842-43680cab69d4>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://orbit.dtu.dk/en/publications/qualitative-assessment-of-the-diet-of-european-eel-larvae-in-the-sargasso-sea-resolved-by-dna-barcoding(7d5aaaff-a63c-4d22-a3f9-b205095ed3e4).html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397842.93/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00100-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.879376
| 289
| 2.921875
| 3
|
Most people need about 400 to 800 international units (IUs) of vitamin D each day, though different people have different requirements. For instance, as you age, your need for vitamin D may increase. People over 70 need at least 600 IUs per day. Be careful not to overdose on vitamin D. Try to keep your intake from supplements below 2,000 IUs per day. Taking too much vitamin D can cause your body to absorb too much calcium, which can lead to nausea, headaches, and muscle and bone weakness. Talk to your doctor to find out how much vitamin D you need.
You can find some vitamin D in egg yolks, cod liver oil, and fatty fishes like salmon. Fortified foods, including milk and some cereals, also have some vitamin D, though you would have to eat a lot to meet your daily needs. Your skin also naturally makes vitamin D from sunlight. About 15 minutes of sunlight two to three times each week—without sunscreen and with hands, face, and arms exposed—can provide enough vitamin D. Most multivitamin supplements provide 100 percent of the daily value (about 400 IUs). But keep in mind, your vitamin D requirement may be higher than this daily value.
You don’t have to get vitamin D at the same time you get your calcium. Once vitamin D goes into your body, it stays in your bloodstream, which means it’s ready to help absorb calcium whenever you eat foods high in calcium or take a supplement. Most people can achieve their daily vitamin D needs by taking a basic multivitamin supplement and a calcium supplement that includes vitamin D.
Update on D – It’s Not Just For Bones Anymore!
|
<urn:uuid:82de5608-e4ac-4889-add2-3b30dea22927>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.uab.edu/shp/toneyourbones/step-4-nutrition-and-supplements/why-vitamin-d-is-important
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783399117.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154959-00084-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.940863
| 349
| 2.96875
| 3
|
To paraphrase the famous kids' book, everybody passes gas. But, it turns out, not everybody produces the same kinds of gas. Let's look Down Under for an example. Scientists have long known that kangaroo flatulence and burps contained significantly less methane than the same emissions from cows and sheep, which, as you may have heard, are a major contributing factor to climate change. Why is this? Well, some brave scientists have explored the issue and come up with some answers.
According to research published March 13 in The ISME Journal, kangaroo guts contain a microbial community that helps to either reduce or completely eliminate the methane from their emissions. It all starts in the kangaroo foregut (like cows, kangaroos have stomachs with multiple chambers, allowing them to digest grass and other hardy vegetation in several steps). This enlarged forestomach contains a number of bacteria, most notably one called Blautia coccoides, but also several others in the Prevotella, Oscillibacter and Streptococcus families. These bacteria metabolize carbon dioxide (CO2) and hydrogen (H) into acetate (C2H3O2). Acetate, in turn, becomes a source of energy for the kangaroos.
This is different from the bacteria in cow guts (as well as in our own), which converts CO2 and H into methane (CH4) and other gases. That methane is considered waste and summarily disposed of, as opposed to kangaroos, which have found a way to put their emissions to good use.
So what comes next with this research? Well for several years now, scientists have wondered if the metabolizing process that doesn't create methane could be transferred over to cows or sheep. In this new research, the scientists took these kangaroo gut microbes out of the stomach environment and fermented vegetative matter in vitro. The result: very little methane was produced, especially compared to what would be generated by bovines such as cows.
This could have a pretty big impact, at least in theory. Australian farmers own more than 13 million beef cows and 74 million sheep, and agriculture produces 15 percent of the country's greenhouse gas emissions. A 2008 study published in the journal Conservation Letters, and reported on by National Geographic, estimated that replacing many of those cows and sheep with commercially raised kangaroos (the other red meat?) would reduce greenhouse gas emissions so much that the country would save more than half a billion dollars a year.
Obviously that hop is a long way away, but for now, we have a new clue as to why kangaroo flatulence is worth studying.
Related on MNN:
|
<urn:uuid:b7e8a5f3-94f9-475a-89c7-d42c289fa7ca>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.mnn.com/earth-matters/climate-weather/stories/why-kangaroos-emit-less-methane-when-they-um-you-know-pass-gas
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783394987.40/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154954-00158-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.963619
| 554
| 3.6875
| 4
|
Time to get your flu vaccine - are you ready?
What happened to summer? Can it be true, it's flu vaccine time again? Did you know that this year the predicted most common strains of influenza are the same as last year? However, that doesn't mean you shouldn't receive a vaccination if you got a flu shot last season.
Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a yearly flu vaccine. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to develop an immune response. Get vaccinated now so that you will be protected when flu season begins. In the United States, influenza season usually begins in October and can last until May. In Washtenaw County, we usually see the most flu-related illness in January and February.
Most people who get the flu will have mild illness, will not need medical care or antiviral drugs and will recover in less than two weeks. Some people, however, are more likely to get flu complications that result in being hospitalized and occasionally result in death.
Flu is more dangerous than the common cold for children. Each year, flu places a large burden on the health and well-being of children and families
Did you know?
CDC and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommend that all health care workers get an annual flu vaccine.
Think you know all there is to know about the flu? Take the
|
<urn:uuid:92936917-d7e1-45e8-b019-35c59be23ff7>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.annarbor.com/health/hard-to-believe-but-flu-season-is-here/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397695.90/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00197-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.970319
| 283
| 3.046875
| 3
|
Derinkuyu Underground city
Derinkuyu Underground City is located in the homonymous Derinkuyu district in Nevsehir Province, Turkey. It is on the road between Nevsehir and Nigde, at a distance of 29 km from Nevsehir. It was opened for visitors as of 1969 and to date, only ten percent of the underground city is accessible for tourists. Its eight floors extend at a depth of approximately 85 m.
The underground city at Derinkuyu has all the usual amenities found in other underground complexes across Cappadocia, such as wine and oil presses, stables, cellars, storage rooms, refectories, and chapels. Unique to the Derinkuyu complex and located on the second floor is a spacious room with a barrel vaulted ceiling. It has been reported that this room was used as a religious school and the rooms to the left were studies. Between the third and fourth levels is a vertical staircase. This passage way leads to a cruciform church on the lowest level. The large 55 m ventilation shaft appears to have been used as a well. The shaft also provided water to both the villagers above and, if the outside world was not accessible, to those in hiding.
First built by the Phrygians in the 8th-7th centuries B.C according to the Turkish Department of Culture, the underground city at Derinkuyu was enlarged in the Byzantine era. The city could be closed from inside with large stone doors. With storerooms and wells that made long stays possible, the city had air shafts which are up to 100 feet (30 m) deep. Derinkuyu is the largest excavated underground city in Turkey. The complex has a total 11 floors, though many floors have not been excavated. It has an area of 2,000 square feet, with a possible total area of 7,000 square feet (650 m2). Each floor could be closed off separately. The city was connected with other underground cities through miles of long tunnels. The city could accommodate between 3,000 and 50,000 people.
The underground city of Derinkuyu was the hiding place for the first Christians who were escaping from the persecution of the Roman empire. Everything discovered in these underground settlements belongs to the Middle Byzantine Peroid, between the 5th and the 10th centuries A.D. The number of the underground settlements, generally used for taking refuge and for religious reasons, increased during this era. The Christian communities in the region took refuge closing millstone doors when they were subjected to the Arab raids, which started in the 7th. The enemy, unaware of the dangers waiting them inside, usually tried to make the local people leave their shelters by poisoning the wells.
Underground cities in Cappadocia generally had a number of features in common: rooms for food storage, kitchens, churches, stables, wine or oil presses, and shafts for ventilation. The underground city in Derinkuyu, which covers eight levels and extends to a depth of 85 meters, was large enough to shelter thousands of people together with their livestock and food stores.
Other underground cities
Nevsehir Province has several other historical underground cities. The cities and structures are carved out of unique geological formations. They were used by Christians as hiding places during times of persecution and raids. The locations are now archaeological tourist attractions. They remain generally unoccupied. In excess of 200 underground cities containing a minimum of two levels have been discovered in the area between Kayseri and Nevsehir. Some 40 of those containing a minimum of three levels or more. The troglodyte cities at Kaymakli and Derinkuyu, are two of the best examples of habitable underground structures.
|
<urn:uuid:e0189c98-53c1-465a-8e42-07b8a88e7584>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://exploreristanbul.com/property.asp?Istanbul=underground%20city
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783393518.22/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154953-00040-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.974595
| 774
| 2.671875
| 3
|
Book of the Week GIVEAWAY: ANNO’S U.S.A. by Mitsumasa Anno
Why we love this book:
This picture book takes an interesting look at American History. The story begins as a traveler departs from Hawaii, first landing in San Francisco. The book uniquely moves from West to East and backward through time.
Join world famous artists Mitsumasa Anno as he illustrates his way through America and History including a stop here in Texas at the Alamo, The Boston Tea Party and Columbus approaching the east coast as the Santa Maria approaches the horizon.
The American Revolution for Children
I’m always the last to know when it comes to technology (no Joyce is actually the last to know!). But just in case, I thought I would share prezi.com. Recently, Grandson #2 introduced me to prezi.com! It is fabulous fun for creating homeschool presentations and it is FREE! Zoom over and take a look.
MacGyver, age 9, is currently using prezi.com to create a presentation on the American Revolution. He is totally loving how he can design each frame including importing photos and videos from the web. It is currently in a rough draft form but he is super excited about taking it to a final product. This is a nice addition to our homeschool resources!
The American Revolution Recommended Books for Children
I was pleasantly surprised to find many terrific books for children on the American Revolution. It was hard for me to narrow my list to 10. The children and I have read a large variety of books on the American Revolution and I’m recommending the ones that were both a hit with me and the children.
Even if you are teaching older children, I would urge you to seriously consider picture books. Most of the picture books I’ve read with the children are written with advanced vocabulary and deal with serious themes about our American History. History is a very abstract concept for children. Picture books help bring our history to life. I have been very impressed with the quality of the art work included in these books on the American Revolution.
- We began our American Revolution study with getting to know George Washington. This put a face and personality to our American History.
- The children are absolutely thrilled with the book Big George. George Washington immediately became a fascinating hero. We’ve checked this book out over and over again from the library.
- On a much lighter note, they laughed their way through George Washington’s Teeth. No, George Washington did not have wooden teeth. But did you know he only had 2 teeth left when he became president!
Important Events of The American Revolution
- American Revolution (Magic Tree House Research Guide) is an excellent chapter book for ages 7 and up. The book covers all of the basics beginning with the 13 Colonies and ending with the Treaty of Paris. The pictures act as a simple visual guide. Highly recommend this one for independent reading.
- When Washington Crossed the Delaware and Valley Forge both illustrate the great hardship suffered by Washington and his men during the war. These battle stories also highlight their inspirational courage and the sacrifices they made for the freedom of our country.
- Paul Revere’s Midnight Ride takes us much deeper into the story of the famous warning, “The British are coming! The British are coming!” I bet you’ll even learn some new facts!
- The Declaration of Independence tells the story of how that famous document came to be written and how it changed our history.
- The Fourth of July Story features old fashioned folk style illustrations that perfectly set the stage for The 4th of July Story. The pictures make it accessible for younger children; however, again do not overlook this for your older students.
Heroes of the American Revolution
- Heroes of the Revolution takes a serious look at our founding fathers and mothers.
- Those Rebels, John & Tom takes a light-hearted look at two of our most important founding fathers.
The Story of America for Young Children
- The Story of America’s Birthday is a simple introduction for toddlers to our American History. Yes, even little ones can learn about America.
I hate to admit it, but I didn’t learn as much as I should have about the American Revolution in school. Today I love history and always wonder how my teachers made it such a big bore! David McCullough’s Books 1776 and John Adams taught me everything I should have learned way back when. I especially liked experiencing the special relationship between John and Abagail Adams.
God Bless America! Enjoy the Presidential Debate tonight!
Life with Jeannine
We’re GIVING AWAY one hardcover copy of ANNO’S U.S.A. by Mitsumasa Anno
To enter this contest, just answer the following question in the comments section of this post.
Did you have a good History teacher? How did he or she make History exciting? (Or just say “Hey.” We’re flexible around here.)
One entry per person, please.
No entries after 8:00 pm Central Time, Thursday, October 25, 2012
The winner must be a resident of The United States.
The winner will be selected at random and announced Friday, October 26, 2012. Check back to claim your prize. It might be you!
We have another book GIVEAWAY celebrating American History: The Art of Freedom
Check out our History Archives for more American History Resources and Materials
Sharing this week at:
|
<urn:uuid:e2e29751-3696-4fed-bbe2-8b33a8aeaeac>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://waddleeahchaa.com/2012/10/22/the-american-revolution-for-children-book-of-the-week-giveaway/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783399117.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154959-00128-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.950608
| 1,153
| 2.671875
| 3
|
THE ANCRAM LEAD MINE
By Capt. Franklin Ellis249
About seventy years ago Henry Keefer had what is called a "stone bee," at which his neighbors lent their assistance to clear a field of the stone that so greatly interfered with the work of cultivation. While prying out some projecting rock he was struck by the strange metallic lustre it possessed, and upon investigation found it to be lead ore. The farm was held under lease, and Livingston, hearing of the discovery, immediately bought him out and erected a small smelting-furnace, in which he reduced the ore. He continued to run the mine for about ten years. It was then abandoned, and remained idle until in 1836 or 1837 the lease was bought by a New York company, who worked it a couple of years. In 1848, Harmon McIntyre became owner of the mine by virtue of a purchase of the soil. In 1850--March 1--the mine was leased for a period of twelve years to Josiah Sturgis, of New York, who worked it for about three years, and then sold the lease to Alexander C. Farrington for $2000. It remained idle till 1863-64, when a stock company was formed and the mine was fitted up with all the most improved machinery for crushing, washing, hoisting, and handling the ore, at a great expense. The company continued operations about two years, and then stopped, since which time nothing has been done. The shaft was sunk to a depth of one hundred feet, and galleries of varying length were opened in all directions.
|
<urn:uuid:57aec77c-4b11-416a-a2d4-2382c2ae7d55>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.usgennet.org/usa/ny/county/columbia/ancram2/lead_mine.htm
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783395346.6/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154955-00036-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.987847
| 325
| 2.578125
| 3
|
A mineral oil is any of various colorless, odorless, light mixtures of higher alkanes
from a ... Prior to the late 19th century, the chemical science to determine such
makeup was unavailable in any ...
Sep 10, 2013 ... Reproduction permitted with due acknowledgement. Mineral oil –. Origin,
production and composition. Anna Hedelin, Nynas AB for CONCAWE.
Petroleum products and mineral oil products include substances such as fluids ...
Aromatic petroleum derivatives have a benzene ring type chemical structure.
ChemicalBook provide Chemical industry users with Mineral oil(8042-47-5)
Boiling point Melting point,Mineral oil(8042-47-5) Density MSDS Formula Use,If
8012-95-1 - Mineral Oil [USP] - Searchable synonyms, formulas, resource links,
and other chemical information.
Information regarding the chemical identity of hydraulic fluid products is located
in Table 3-l. ... this profile are mineral oil and water-in-oil emulsion fluids.
Chemical Identifiers | Hazards | Response Recommendations | Physical ... OIL. [
MINERAL] may be incompatible with strong oxidizing agents like nitric acid.
Apr 28, 2014 ... They found that both fat and milk samples were contaminated with mineral oil
saturated hydrocarbons—and stated that these compounds likely ...
Nov 30, 1998 ... 21 CFR 178.3620, Specifications for Food-Grade Mineral Oil. Label for ... Formal
Chemical Name: Mineral Oil, USP, IS0 100 viscosity only.
Shop online for a wide selection of Mineral Oil, Light (NF/FCC), Fisher Chemical
Saybolt viscosity: 158 maximum.
|
<urn:uuid:973ad280-9a74-4e75-b58e-9c547b85e679>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.ask.com/web?qsrc=6&o=102140&oo=102140&l=dir&gc=1&qo=popularsearches&ad=dirN&q=Mineral+Oil+Chemistry
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783403502.46/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624155003-00178-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.732165
| 368
| 2.546875
| 3
|
MIAMI, April 16, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In a study published in today's issue of Nature Communications, researchers from Florida International University's Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine describe a revolutionary technique they have developed that can deliver and fully release the anti-HIV drug AZTTP into the brain.
Madhavan Nair, professor and chair, and Sakhrat Khizroev, professor and vice chair of the HWCOM's Department of Immunology, used magneto-electric nanoparticles (MENs) to cross the blood-brain barrier and send a significantly increased level of AZTTP—up to 97 percent more —to HIV-infected cells.
For years, the blood-brain barrier has stumped scientists and doctors who work with neurological diseases. A natural filter that allows very few substances to pass through to the brain, the blood-brain barrier keeps most medicines from reaching the brain. Currently, more than 99 percent of the antiretroviral therapies used to treat HIV, such as AZTTP, are deposited in the liver, lungs and other organs before they reach the brain.
"This allows a virus, such as AIDS, to lurk unchecked," said Nair, an HIV/immunology researcher.
The patent-pending technique developed by FIU binds the drug to a MEN inserted into a monocyte/macrophage cell, which is then injected into the body and drawn to the brain. Once it has reached the brain, a low energy electrical current triggers a release of the drug, which is then guided to its target with magnetoelectricity. In lab experiments, nearly all of the therapy reached its intended target. It will soon enter the next phase of testing. For visuals please click here.
Potentially, this method of delivery could help other patients who suffer from neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, epilepsy, muscular dystrophy, meningitis and chronic pain. It could also be applicable to diseases such as cancer.
"We see this as a multifunctional therapy," said Khizroev, who is an electrical engineer and physicist by training.
Multi-disciplinary efforts that combine principles of those fields with immunology enabled the project to move forward.
"The success of our nanotechnology is derived from the fact that nature likes simplicity," Khizroev said.
SOURCE Florida International University
|
<urn:uuid:a9b58af9-4b62-4185-bcc5-15e92be8fa13>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-technique-to-deliver-life-saving-drugs-to-the-brain-203220191.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783393332.57/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154953-00005-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.947359
| 496
| 2.578125
| 3
|
The importance of antioxidants in the diet.
Everyone has heard the news about antioxidants and their importance to good health and proper nutrition. It seems the more scientists learn about antioxidants, the more their value and potential increases. Antioxidants have shown promise in everything from preventing heart disease to slowing the degeneration of the eyes and brain.
Antioxidants work in a fairly straightforward way. What makes them so effective is their ability to neutralize a group of highly reactive, highly destructive compounds known as free radicals.
The production of free radicals is a normal bodily process, and it is part of the process of breathing and living. Free radicals are normally neutralized by the body’s natural defense system, rendering them harmless. However, anything that weakens the body’s natural defenses weakens its ability to fight off these free radicals. Those weakening agents include environmental pollution, excess UV radiation and even excessive consumption of alcohol.
When free radicals are not properly neutralized, the body is left open to damage. Free radicals can damage the structure and function of cells in the body, and recent evidence suggest that free radicals contribute to the aging process and may play a role in a great many illnesses, including cancer and heart disease.
While vitamin supplements containing antioxidants such as vitamin C can be important, there is no substitute for a healthy diet. It is estimated that foods contain more than 4,000 compounds that have antioxidant qualities. Eating a healthy diet is the only way to take advantage of these antioxidant properties. In addition to the well known antioxidants like vitamin C and vitamin E, healthy foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains also contain lots of lesser antioxidants. Scientists are only now discovering the important role these lesser known antioxidants have in keeping the body healthy.
Let’s examine some of the dietary sources for the major antioxidant vitamins.
Vitamin C is probably the most studied of all the antioxidant vitamins. Also known as ascorbic acid, vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin found in all bodily fluids, and it is thought to be one of body’s first lines of defense against infection and disease. Since vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin, it is not stored and must be consumed in adequate quantities every day. Good dietary sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruits, green peppers, broccoli and other green leafy vegetables, strawberries, cabbage and potatoes.
Vitamin E is a fat soluble vitamin that is stored in the liver and other tissues. Vitamin E has been studied for its effects on everything from delaying the aging process to healing a sunburn. While vitamin E is not a miracle worker, it is an important antioxidant, and it is important that the diet contain sufficient amounts of vitamin E. Good dietary sources of this important nutrient include wheat germ, nuts, seeds, whole grains, vegetable oil, fish liver oil and green leafy veggies.
Beta-carotene is the nutrient that gives flamingos their distinctive pink color (they get it from the shrimp they eat). In the human world, beta-carotene is the most widely studied of over 600 carotenoids that have thus far been discovered. The role of beta-carotene in nature is to protect the skins of dark green, yellow and orange fruits from the damaging effects of solar radiation. Scientists believe that beta-carotene plays a similar protective role in the human body. Sources of beta-carotene in the diet include such foods as carrots, squash, sweet potatoes, broccoli, tomatoes, collard greens, kale, cantaloupe, peaches and apricots.
Selenium is one of the most important minerals in a healthy diet, and it has been studied for its ability to prevent cell damage. Scientists see this ability to protect cells from damage as possibly important in the prevention of cancer, and selenium is being studied for possible cancer preventative properties. It is important to get the selenium you need from your diet, since large doses of selenium supplements can be toxic. Fortunately, selenium is easily found in a healthy diet. Good sources of dietary selenium include fish and shellfish, red meat, whole grains, poultry and eggs, and garlic. Vegetables grown in selenium rich soils are also good sources of dietary selenium.
This information is not presented by a medical practitioner and is for educational and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read. This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to “diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease".
Wake Up Richer Every Morning... Instant Internet Business Makes Money Automatically...
Thomas Hunter is an Internet marketer, author and publisher and has helped hundreds of people become successful Niche Marketers. Explore the highly profitable world of
Niche Marketing at http://SixFigureNiches.com our popular membership website.
Article Source: http://netsalesinc.com
If you have a website or ezine you may freely post this article on your site as long as you include the full resource box above. All links must be active / clickable with no syntax changes.
Most Popular Articles On: Healthy Eating
|
<urn:uuid:7b039261-24db-461d-9038-42456792576f>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://netsalesinc.com/HealthyEating/Article4.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783404826.94/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624155004-00041-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.943057
| 1,111
| 3.515625
| 4
|
Thursday, 13th March 2014 by Kyle Kusch
The ancestor of the modern stadium, amphitheatres have been playing host to large-scale cultural and sporting events for thousands of years. Approximately 230 Roman-era amphitheatres have been identified across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. The tradition continues today as hundreds of amphitheatre venues have been constructed to host concerts and plays, often in natural settings.
Two of the oldest and best-preserved Roman amphitheatres sit in Italy’s Campania region. The Anfiteatro Campano in Santa Maria Capua Vetere dates to the beginning of the 1st millennium AD and also ranks as one of the largest Roman amphitheatres, measuring 170 x 140 metres (190 x 150 yards, making it nearly as large as the vaunted Roman Colosseum).
Just down the road from Santa Maria Capua Vetere stands the legendary Amphitheatre of Pompeii, the oldest surviving Roman amphitheatre and the oldest known to be built of stone rather than of wood. Built in 80 BC, the amphitheatre would be buried (and inadvertently preserved) by the eruption of Vesuvius 159 years later. Classic Rock fans may know it best, however, as the site where Pink Floyd filmed the bulk of their 1972 concert film Pink Floyd: Live at Pompeii.
The 2nd century Palais Gallien in Bordeaux, France was not as lucky. At one point capable of holding 22,000 spectators, the stadium (which was fitted with wooden bleachers) was burned during the Frankish raids of 275-276 AD. Amazingly, the ruins survived centuries of neglect, and the northern gate of the amphitheatre still stands today in the heart of the city.
A common feature of Roman amphitheatres was the hypogeum, a network of tunnels and cages beneath the amphitheatre’s surface where gladiators and animals were kept before battles. At the ancient site of Italica in western Spain, the hypogeum is visible in the centre of the ruined stadium.
An even better example of a hypogeum can be seen in the Catalan city of Tarragona. Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the bowels of the amphitheatre here were variously used as a mausoleum and a prison into the 19th century.
The Arènes d’Arles in Provence, France was transformed into a fortified city in the centuries following Roman rule. At one point, over 200 houses existed within the walls of the amphitheatre before 19th century restoration efforts returned the stadium to its original function. Appropriately for a bloody gladiatorial setting, the arena continues to host annual bullfights that draw 50,000 spectators into the venue.
Mérida, Spain is unique in being home to two Roman amphitheatres at the same complex1. The Roman theatre sat buried for well over a millennium before being excavated in the 19th century2. Much of its magnificent marble stage and the accompanying columns and statues remain intact. The main amphitheatre next door, however, is in much rougher shape.
Many Roman amphitheatres have been restored and are enjoying new lives as public gathering places. The half-buried amphitheatre at Lecce in southern Italy, shown here decorated for Christmas, plays host to many cultural events throughout the year.
Today, amphitheatres remain popular venues for concertgoers around the world thanks to their optimal acoustics. Perhaps the two largest amphitheatre venues are the naturally occurring amphitheatre at Slane Castle in Ireland’s County Meath (capacity 80,000 and home to the annual Slane Concert festival), and Milton Keynes’ National Bowl (formerly a clay pit; now a 65,000-person concert ground).
Not all amphitheatres have to be large to be impressive. Take the Auditorio Julio Iglesias in the Valencian resort city of Benidorm, or The Scoop underneath London’s City Hall, both surrounded by skyscrapers in the heart of the city.
The Hollywood Hills of Los Angeles are home to two world-renowned amphitheatres within a ten-minute drive of one another. The Greek Theatre has been hosting concerts since 1931, which, judging by the lineup on the marquee, is apparently the same year the Street View camera captured this imagery.
Its counterpart to the west is the Hollywood Bowl3, which opened nine years earlier in 1922. Look closely in the hills above the distinctively-shaped bandshell and you’ll even manage to catch a glimpse of the iconic Hollywood sign.
Finally, we return to another original Google Sightseeing haunt, Colorado’s Red Rocks Amphitheatre, for some stunning up-close views of the legendary concert venue and its eponymous geologic formations.
Only the uppermost seats of the theatre remained exposed above ground, which is why the top of the theatre appears so weathered in comparison to the inner bowl. ↩
|
<urn:uuid:f6a1a9b7-bd39-4c79-a2fe-aaf7b8547b8f>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://googlesightseeing.com/2014/03/amphitheatres/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783395620.56/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154955-00112-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.948949
| 1,046
| 3.03125
| 3
|
| The Origins of S. Gregório
The earliest written records of the ancient village of S. Gregório date back to 1483. Situated on a hill with the Serra d'Ossa for backdrop, the location chosen for this settlement could not have been better. This once prosperous village was at its peak home to over forty people. The surrounding land is very fertile and is used today to grow vines
Both the village and surrounding land were once the property of a rich nobleman, D. Luís Galvão Coutinho Freire. Its privileged location was its downfall. Being so close to Estremoz, Borba and Vila Viçosa its inhabitants gradually moved to the cities, abandoning the village permanently in 1980's.
Mirroring the desertion crisis of the Alentejo, the village of S. Gregório suffered no changes to its original 15th Century architecture and layout. With the passing of time the streets were covered over by weeds and the walls and roofs of the building fell in. But, this did not change the original style of the village, making it a unique location of incalculable historic value.
Deserted and abandoned, the village was bought in 1998 with the sole aim of restoring it for an innovative form of tourism in Portugal, namely Village Tourism.
|
<urn:uuid:256b2110-8005-401b-825f-493aeba9ab9a>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.saogregorio.com/en-home.htm
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397696.49/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00129-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.970415
| 271
| 2.625
| 3
|
Discover the cosmos! Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer.
2013 July 1
Explanation: What would it look like to orbit a black hole? Since the strong gravity of the black hole can significantly alter light paths, conditions would indeed look strange. For one thing, the entire sky would be visible, since even stars behind the black hole would have their light bent to the observer's eye. For another, the sky near the black hole would appear significantly distorted, with more and more images of the entire sky visible increasingly near the black hole. Most visually striking, perhaps, is the outermost sky image completely contained inside an easily discernible circle known as the Einstein ring. Orbiting a black hole, as shown in the above scientifically-accurate computer-created illustrative video, will show stars that pass nearly directly behind the black hole as zipping around rapidly near the Einstein ring. Although star images near the Einstein ring may appear to move faster than light, no star is actually moving that quickly. The above video is part of a sequence of videos visually exploring the space near a black hole's event horizon. (Disclosure: Video creator Robert Nemiroff is an editor for APOD.)
Authors & editors:
Jerry Bonnell (UMCP)
NASA Official: Phillip Newman Specific rights apply.
A service of: ASD at NASA / GSFC
& Michigan Tech. U.
|
<urn:uuid:fb861d67-47c0-4f5c-aa0a-23d08175de81>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap130701.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783395346.72/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154955-00104-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.933095
| 301
| 3.4375
| 3
|
When Pierre-Charles L’Enfant drew his visionary plan for a capital city of the new United States in 1791, he included a site that might hold a pantheon, a hallowed place where the nation could honor its heroes. The pantheon was never constructed, but on the spot L’Enfant had designated for it, a great Greek Revival building began to rise some 45 years later. The building was home to the U.S. Patent Office, which recognized achievement of a kind no less vital to the success of the nation than the heroism L’Enfant had contemplated. The Patent Office recorded the genius of such figures as Thomas Edison, along with the industry of those who invented nothing more than a better clothespin. It became a temple to the practical American imagination in all of its unconstrained profusion. The building accommodated imagination of another kind as well: before there was a Smithsonian, the collection to which we trace our current extensive holdings of American art was displayed within its walls.
By the late 1950s the building, long since vacated by the Patent Office, was in danger of being leveled, its storied presence to be traded for a parking garage. Instead, Congress authorized its use by the Smithsonian in 1958 to house the National Portrait Gallery and the American art museum. (The Patent Office building is now closed while undergoing a renovation, at a cost of some $216 million, that will reclaim for a new century the architectural glory of its past; during the renovation, prized items from the collections are touring the nation and the world.) The two museums could have no more appropriate home than within what Walt Whitman called the "noblest of Washington buildings," where, not incidentally, Abraham Lincoln danced at his second inaugural ball.
You might even say that the museums were destined for the site. Their separate missions echo the purpose L’Enfant had envisioned for the location; echo, too, the role of the Patent Office in tracking Americans’ boundless ingenuity. The two museums have distinct purposes and yet together they limn the American experience by acknowledging the accomplishment of individual Americans in every realm of endeavor. The SmithsonianAmericanArt Museum—with a collection that now numbers 39,000 works—recognizes the aesthetic achievement of American artists. The Portrait Gallery, by contrast, is not an art museum, though its collections include great works of art (a portrait of artist Mary Cassatt by Edgar Degas, for instance). It is, rather, a biography museum, where the history of America is told through the lives of the men and women who made it.
The immense cast of characters who crowd the halls of the Portrait Gallery, in paintings, sculpture, photographs, prints, posters and caricatures, all left their mark on the nation, for better and, sometimes, for worse. (Here are Presidents and Presidential assassins too.) Their importance is measured not by the artistic worth of the images that survive of them but by the significance of their actions. The AmericanArt Museum celebrates the work of individual artists; the Gallery reflects a more diverse calibration of accomplishment by individual Americans. One is a monument to the power of biography to move, amuse, instruct, inspire; the other, to the power of art to do no less.
Of course, the Portrait Gallery and the AmericanArt Museum are not the only Smithsonian museums to recognize the contributions of particular Americans. But they do so on a scale and in a setting that give their recognition a special force. They make of the building they occupy a great hall of individual American achievement. So Washington has a pantheon after all—different, perhaps, from the one L’Enfant had in mind, but right for a country whose history has been so much more tumultuous and encompassing than he could ever have foreseen.
|
<urn:uuid:9b2620b8-dfaf-40a7-893a-303b5533e31d>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/a-pantheon-after-all-65879145/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783392527.68/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154952-00056-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.96366
| 776
| 2.796875
| 3
|
As an elementary school teacher, or as the parent of an elementary school child, it can be difficult to find fun activities all year round. Kids grow tired of just studying all the time. They would rather be outside playing or doing something creative. Although you might not be able to let them outside all the time, you can encourage their creative side in a fun way that will also teach them important lessons. If your class seems to be bored with the usual routine you might want to consider trying some fun coloring crafts. Coloring allows each child to express themselves and control the outcome of a creative project. Most kids feel like every element of their life is controlled by adults. They have no decision in matters such as education, bed time, and what they eat. Giving them the opportunity to do something creative provides them with a little opportunity for autonomy. One of the things that you will teach elementary school kids throughout their grade school years is how to celebrate holidays. You will teach them some of the basic cultural ideas behind holidays and the history of holidays. A great way to teach some of these ideas while helping the kids have a great time is through holiday coloring crafts. I have described some of my favorite holiday coloring crafts below.
1. Holiday decoration coloring. For almost every holiday there is some sort of traditional decoration. A great way to introduce these decorations to a class is to have them make them for themselves. If you are celebrating Halloween have your class color scary ghosts and goblins. If the class is still quite young you might need to provide the outlines in which the kids will color. Christmas is great for coloring because of the rich variety of colors associated with the holiday. Have the children design and color their own stockings, presents, and Christmas tree designs. For students who celebrate other holidays you might want to do some research about the traditional colors associated with it. This could be a great opportunity to educate the class about holidays and traditions that would otherwise go unnoticed or celebrated.
2. Holiday gift cards. It is almost always appropriate to distribute holiday gift cards for almost any occasion. This sort of activity can be great for building cohesion in your classroom. Have the children design a card that is appropriate for the specific holiday or occasion. Allow them to write a nice note to their friends or class mates. Make sure that they color the card with colors specific to the holiday.
3. Holiday t-shirt design. Purchase cheap cotton t-shirts and clothing markers for your class. Have them design their own t-shirt for the holiday. They can design a holiday scene, such as Santa Claus and his elves making presents, or a scary ghost in a cemetery. Don’t limit the creativity of your class when it comes to their designs.
As you can see, there are lots of great ideas for holiday coloring crafts. These are just a few of many ideas that you can try with your elementary school kids. Brainstorm and come up with some exciting new ideas of your own. You know the children you are working with better than anyone and you will be able to come up with crafts that will entertain and teach them. Also, don’t be afraid to ask the class for holiday coloring craft ideas. Often children are the best source of new ideas for good teaching methods.
|
<urn:uuid:2eaa2319-1994-4821-8417-889f26ee9514>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.surfnetkids.com/coloring/1005/holiday-coloring-crafts-for-elementary-school/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783393146.70/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154953-00008-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.968765
| 660
| 2.875
| 3
|
In 1994, economists Terry Anderson and Fred McChesney proposed a simple theory of violence on the American frontier. Their paper, published in the Journal of Law and Economics, modeled an important choice that white settlers and Indians faced when conflicts arose over land claims: Would the two groups fight or negotiate to resolve disputes? Or to put it another way, would they raid or trade?
The answer, they said, depended on the relative costs of raiding and trading. If the costs of fighting decreased, perhaps because one side developed superior weaponry, then disputes were more likely to turn violent. If the costs of negotiation fell, perhaps because a tribe’s land rights were clear and recognized by other tribes, then groups were more likely to bargain to get what they wanted. After all, trade is profitable. Fighting is costly.
Looking back through the historical record, Anderson and McChesney found that this straightforward economic logic explained much about Indian-white relations. But their theory extends beyond just the old western frontier. It sheds light on why we often fight the way we do—especially in the West today.
In the century following the American Revolution, life on the frontier gradually evolved from an era of peaceful negotiation to one of violent takings. This evolution was reflected in the relative costs of raiding and trading as the frontier advanced westward. For instance, tribes in the eastern United States were primarily agricultural societies with clearly specified rights to land. Because these rights were well defined and respected among other tribes, peaceful negotiation was in fact common between whites and Indians in the East. As the frontier expanded further west, however, Indian land rights became less clear. Plains Indians were more nomadic and reliant on wandering bison herds. This made it difficult for western tribes to enforce land claims, making trading more costly.
But perhaps the most important shift from trading to raiding was the rise of a standing army after the Civil War. A standing army dramatically lowered the cost of fighting. It also created military bureaucrats whose careers and budgets depended on continued fighting. “God only knows when, and I do not see how, we can make a decent excuse for an Indian war,” General Sherman complained in 1866. It didn’t take long to find that excuse. More Indian-white battles occurred during the post-war period than at any other time, and raiding quickly supplanted trading on the frontier.
The raid-or-trade model can be applied today to a number of areas where groups compete for control over limited resources. The range war brewing on federal lands in the West, witnessed last month in the standoff on Cliven Bundy’s ranch in Nevada, is case in point. There, where more than half of the land in western states is owned by the federal government, disputes like Bundy’s occur on a near daily basis. In many ways, these federal lands resemble the old western frontier—largely untapped and, at least in a political sense, available for the taking.
Mr. Bundy’s case represents just about everything that’s wrong with federal land management today. Environmental groups file endless legal challenges over land management, forcing agencies to declare more and more areas off limits to grazing, timber harvesting, or energy development. Armed with the Endangered Species Act and other regulatory weapons, environmental groups raid the rights of existing federal land users to protect habitats they like and to stop activities they don’t like. The result is a federal land system strangled by what former U.S. Forest Service chief Jack Ward Thomas describes as a “Gordian knot” of litigation and regulation.
The dispute on the Bundy Ranch began with a raid of this very sort. In 1993, the federal government—under pressure from environmental groups—forced a reduction in Bundy’s grazing permit, declaring the allotment he used as habitat for the federally protected desert tortoise. Because federal grazing permits are attached to specific private ranches or base properties, such reductions can imply a substantial loss to a base ranch’s value. (Bundy holds title to just 160 acres, so the vast majority of his ranch’s value was derived from his permit to graze cattle on the 158,666-acre Bunkerville Allotment.)
Raids like this are all too common across the West, as ranchers’ grazing permits have been weakened or taken by the feds at the behest of environmental groups. Just as in the Old West, where the rise of a standing army encouraged more raiding of Indian lands, the regulatory institutions of the New West have given rise to a standing army of environmental litigators capable of running roughshod over the rights of existing land users.
The raid or trade model provides a simple explanation for why we fight the way we do: It’s just too easy to raid, and too difficult to trade. But it also teaches us that it doesn’t have to be that way.
As I wrote in the Wall Street Journal last month, some environmentalists have begun to trade rather than raid to get what they want. In several cases, environmental groups have paid ranchers to relinquish their grazing permits to protect wildlife habitat. Others have purchased base properties and acquired the federal grazing permits attached to them, spending their own money raised from member donations. Outside of Yellowstone, environmentalists have bargained with ranchers to retire federal grazing permits, compensated ranchers for losses due to wildlife, and negotiated contracts that allow bison to migrate through private land during certain times of the year.
Deals such as these are an exception to the raiding that is rampant across the West. But they represent a fundamentally different choice in the raid-or-trade calculus—one that recognizes existing property rights and seeks an honest bargain. Understanding how and when these trades occur is an important step to finding ways to lower the costs of negotiation far enough to encourage less raiding and more trading.
As I noted in the Journal, the institutions that govern federal lands are ill-equipped to reconcile today’s competing demands in a cooperative manner. They were designed in accordance with the values of an earlier era, and with little regard to the simple fact that values change. Until these institutions evolve as well, trades like the ones I have described are likely to remain the exception rather than the norm.
The history of Indian-white relations suggests one important way to encourage more trading: Property rights must be secure and transferable. But as Mr. Bundy discovered when his permit was sacrificed for the sake of tortoise habitat, grazing permits are far from secure. The Taylor Grazing Act, the 1934 act that regulates grazing on federal lands, refers only to “grazing privileges,” and recent regulations have continually weakened the security of those privileges. Trading will prevail only when grazing privileges are recognized as secure property rights. (Of course, the best way to encourage trading is for federal rangelands to be privatized completely. This is unlikely to happen any time soon, so it is useful to find intermediate solutions that promote trading. In order for that to happen, grazing permits must be treated as property rights to the fullest extent possible.)
Even if grazing rights are well defined and respected, they must also be transferable. Federal grazing rules, however, generally prevent ranchers from trading permits to environmentalists who do not intend to run livestock on the land. As one environmental group in Arizona found out when they purchased a base property in 2005, the associated grazing permit required them to graze cattle or lose the permit. Such a requirement clearly raises the costs of trading for groups that want to use rangelands for purposes other than grazing.
Several of the deals that occur today are less than ideal due to such trade barriers. Environmental groups pay ranchers to relinquish their permits but then must convince the BLM to temporarily retire the allotment to keep other ranchers from claiming it as unused. In a grazing regime like this—with weak property rights and restrictions on the transfers that are allowed—it’s no wonder most environmentalists raid rather than trade.
It’s not clear that ranchers benefit from a regime that discourages trading either. An analysis of federal grazing permits by economists Myles Watts and Lorraine Egan found a seemingly backwards economic result: As the value of the federal rangeland rises, thanks to increasing demands for environmental uses, grazing permit values have declined. “If the rights to grazing permits were secure and transferable,” Watts and Egan explain, “then grazing permits values would not decrease in value as noncommercial uses become more desired.” Indeed, the opposite would happen. Permits would become more valuable as competing groups bargained for gains from trade. Since grazing rights cannot be traded in market institutions based on property rights they are liable to be raided through political institutions, casting uncertainty on their value today.
Of course, in order for trading to succeed, groups must be prevented from simply taking what they want at little or no cost to themselves. But today’s standing army of environmental litigators benefit from raiding rather than trading—and, in many cases, the federal government even ends up footing the bill for environmental groups that sue. Any attempt to promote trading must also reduce these groups’ regulatory power to raid.
At the same time, much more needs to be done to lower the costs of trading among competing groups. Leasing reforms are needed to accommodate a host of different values on federal land, and permits should be recognized as secure and transferable property rights. Moreover, those permits should be allowed to migrate to their most-valued use, whether that’s cattle grazing or tortoise habitat.
What’s certain is that today’s federal land institutions promote far too much raiding. As the Bundy standoff has shown us, conflicts over land use can erupt into full-on range wars. The raid-or-trade model provides a clear and useful lesson: If property rights are well defined and transferable, then disputes among even the most diverse groups are more likely to get resolved peacefully. Finding ways to strengthen property rights, even in the context of federal lands, would go a long way to changing how we fight over land in the West—or whether we even fight at all.
Shawn Regan is research fellow at PERC, the Property and Environment Research Center, a nonprofit research institute located in Bozeman, Montana.
|
<urn:uuid:89c98598-280c-4fd8-8cbc-29021ae059be>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.theamericanconservative.com/articles/raiding-and-trading-in-the-american-west/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783396945.81/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154956-00056-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.952205
| 2,114
| 3.890625
| 4
|
Each summer, weather forecasters start tell their audiences how hot it is according to the thermometer and how much hotter they feel, based on the heat index.
Society has measured temperature using Fahrenheit and Celsius since at least the 18th Century. The heat index has been around just a fraction of that time.
How the National Weather Service Calculates the Heat Index
Some question how objective a measurement of how you feel can really be.
But at the National Weather Service, they’ve got a formula to measure just that – and it's a very complicated one.
One of the meteorologists there, Eli Jacks, said the heat index concept was developed in the late 1970s, and it is actually an attempt to measure the rate at which human sweat evaporates into the air. That’s because when sweat evaporates more slowly, you feel warmer.
And there are plenty of values taken into account besides the air temperature and humidity. “There is actually an assumption that a person is wearing long trousers, and a short sleeved shirt, and that they’re walking at 3.1 miles per hour, which causes a certain wind,” Jacks said.
The actual equation is pretty complex. It’s long, and involves various combinations of temperature, humidity and those other variables. With a couple of multiplications, additions and squaring, you end up with the heat index.
For example, on July 22, the warmest day of the year so far, the temperature hit 104 degrees in Central Park, while the heat index rose to around 115.
- Take a look at the National Weather Service's formula to calculate the heat index.
- Or, use the calculator to get a value by plugging in the air temperature and dew point or humidity.
Another Measure Aimed at Predicting How You'll Feel: The AccuWeather RealFeel
But the heat index isn’t the only game in town.
The commercial service AccuWeather has a measurement called the RealFeel, which is akin to the heat index in the summer and the wind chill factor in the winter, but uses a different formula.
AccuWeather Forecaster Brett Anderson said it’s also calculated on a daily basis.
“Some of those factors we look at: the sun angle during the day and also during the season. That’s important. Rate of evaporation. We also look at the wind speed throughout the day. The temperature of course, and the humidity. And then if there’s a cloud cover or not. Obviously if there are more clouds, the AccuWeather RealFeel temperature will certainly be less than if it's a sunnier day," he said.
If you think that’s complex, an independent meteorologist, Steven DiMartino, who runs the Web site NY NJ PA Weather, said factors that have changed since the 1970s could also influence attempts to calculate how hot someone feels.
DiMartino said those factors could include the average person’s weight, amount of exercise and even how much sodium he or she ingests.
“I think that it does need to be updated to deal with today’s physical standards, as far as the average human being, or American, depending on where you want to use it in the world," he said. But he added that it's "still an excellent way" to inform the public, and let people know about the dangers of excessive heat.
How Accurate is the Heat Index? And Why is it Used?
Meteorologists admit that not everybody will feel exactly the same under the same weather conditions. AccuWeather's Anderson said whether a person has light or dark skin, is heavy or thin and what weather they’re generally used to, can also have an affect.
But forecasters still say the heat index or RealFeel can be very important tools.
The heat index, for example, helps triggers weather alerts from the National Weather Service, including advisories, watches and warnings.
There is actually a chart that places high temperatures, high humidity and the heat index into certain ranges that line up with precautions to take under extreme weather conditions. Those alerts mean that unless people take extra care, they can suffer from very real physical conditions -- from minor fatigue and sunburn, to heat exhaustion and even heat stroke.
“The key point is that, within a good approximation, the heat index provides for a given temperature and humidity in the air a very good sense about how much more the body is perceiving it to be, based on its ability to cool itself,” Jacks said.
So if hearing about a heat index of 115 degrees sounds a bit alarmist, well, that’s sort of the point. It’s meant to get people’s attention, and influence them to take extra precautions.
|
<urn:uuid:382cd5f3-d940-43b4-a76b-f8991611a5d3>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.wnyc.org/story/150694-explaining-heat-index/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397748.48/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00014-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.948505
| 1,007
| 3.703125
| 4
|
Very Interesting New Paper on Astronomical ClimatologyAlan Carlin | March 29, 2012
Ever wonder why there was a Little Ice Age or a Medieval Warm Period? Or why global temperatures increased slightly in the late 20th Century? On March 8 a preprint of Nicola Scafetta’s new paper entitled “Multi-scale Harmonic Model for Solar and Climate Cyclical Variation Throughout the Holocene Based on Jupiter-Saturn Tidal Frequencies Plus the 11-year Solar Dynamo Cycle” appeared with a sophisticated answer to all these questions. The abstract reads in part as follows:
A simplified harmonic constituent model based on the above two planetary tidal frequencies and on the exact dates of Jupiter and Saturn planetary tidal phases, plus a theoretically deduced 10.87-year central cycle reveals complex quasi-periodic interference/beat patterns. The major beat periods occur at about 115, 61 and 130 years, plus a quasi-millennial large beat cycle around 983 years. We show that equivalent synchronized cycles are found in cosmogenic records used to reconstruct solar activity and in proxy climate records throughout the Holocene (last 12,000 years) up to now. The quasi-secular beat oscillations hindcast reasonably well the known prolonged periods of low solar activity during the last millennium such as the Oort, Wolf, Sporer, Maunder and Dalton minima, as well as the 17 115-year long oscillations found in a detailed temperature reconstruction of the Northern Hemisphere covering the last 2000 years. The millennial three-frequency beat cycle hindcasts equivalent solar and climate cycles for 12,000 years. Finally, the harmonic model herein proposed reconstructs the prolonged solar minima that occurred during 1900– 1920 and 1960–1980 and the secular solar maxima around 1870–1890, 1940–1950 and 1995–2005 and a secular upward trending during the 20th century: this modulated trending agrees well with some solar proxy model, with the ACRIM TSI satellite composite and with the global surface temperature modulation since 1850…. Finally, the model predicts that during low solar activity periods, the solar cycle length tends to be longer, as some researchers have claimed.
In brief, Earth’s climate can be explained by solar cycles of 983, 115, 61, and 130 years. Scafetta’s hindcast is spectacular. Scafetta’s paper represents the most sophisticated effort that I know of to explain Earth’s climatic changes in terms of observationally-based science. Unlike AGW-based climatology it actually contributes to our understanding of this important topic, and in my view represents the beginning of the Copernican revolution in climate science that I recently advocated.
|
<urn:uuid:a7b95784-246b-435b-a510-74ea367915de>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.carlineconomics.com/archives/1486
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397864.87/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00050-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.91945
| 551
| 2.734375
| 3
|
Fido may keep criminals away in the first place, but Fluffy can help the police bust them. As any cat owner knows, felines shed a lot of fur, and that fur — which clings to the skin, clothing and shoes of visitors — can be used as forensic evidence.
"The increasing popularity of the domestic cat as a household pet has unknowingly fostered the distribution of potential crime scene evidence across millions of households," researcher Robert Grahn told Discovery News. "Cat fur obtained from a crime scene has the potential to link perpetrators, accomplices, witnesses and victims."
Scientists have established a DNA database that will allow cat fur to be used more effectively as evidence in criminal cases. The database focuses on mitochondrial DNA, which is passed down through the maternal line. This type of DNA has a high mutation rate, so it’s more identifiable between individuals, and its genes exist in high amounts.
Grahn and his team at the Department of Population Health & Reproduction at California’s UC Davis have collected DNA samples from hundreds of cats during routine spay and neuter surgeries.
Another form of DNA called standard short tandem repeat (STR) has already been used to convict an accused murderer. Douglas Beamish of Canada had the fur of a long-haired white cat stuck to one of the pockets in his jacket, which was genetically linked to the cat of his victim. Beamish is currently serving a 15-year sentence.
The DNA test created for the STR marker, called “Meowplex”, will be used in tandem with the new mitochondiral DNA database to provide criminal investigators with a furrific resource for solving cases.
|
<urn:uuid:8daa2826-62b3-4b3f-9869-5bb4cbdbaf79>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.mnn.com/earth-matters/animals/stories/csi-felines-cat-fur-dna-busts-criminals
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783403823.74/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624155003-00141-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.962433
| 341
| 2.859375
| 3
|
What makes fiber art?
Art that is created using natural or synthetic fibers or techniques that are traditionally thought of as relating to fiber, such as sewing or weaving. Only one of these – fiber materials or fiber techniques -must be present for work to fall into the broad category known as “fiber art.” While contemporary fiber art is often preoccupied with materiality and technique, it’s important to also remember that the best work in fiber, like any medium, has observations, themes, or concepts at its core.
Many of the techniques and materials associated with fiber art include basketry, beadwork, braiding, clothing design, crochet, many methods of dyeing and surface design, including batik, shibori, hand-dyeing, natural or eco-dyeing; embroidery, crewel, applique, and other needle arts; encaustic; felting, including nuno felting, needle felting; hooking, including rug hooking and hooked art; knitting; knotting and knot tyeing; lacework; mixed media; sculpture; sewing; spinning; surface design; tapestry, textile design; wearable art; weaving, including jacquard weaving, hand weaving, saori, and many more. This list is only a sample. There are more than we can list or imagine, as the contemporary fiber art and textiles world changes every day. Your friends are probably in their studios right now creating a new method or cross-over in materials or techniques that no one has done before. Hopefully you’ll read about it here, at Fiber Art Now.
|
<urn:uuid:4af819c1-3d6f-47b6-836b-344d07d916c0>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://fiberartnow.net/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783395992.75/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154955-00106-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.954469
| 336
| 3.234375
| 3
|
Realism art entry on the free encyclopedia online, Wikipedia.
Described briefly as "Realism often refers more
specifically to the artistic movement, which began in
France in the 1850s. These realists positioned themselves
against romanticism, a genre dominating French literature
and artwork in the late 18th and early 19th centuries".
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Realism_(arts) - categories
Listing of selected realist artists and painters on
the free encyclopedia online, Wikipedia. The listing
includes a mixed group of realist artists with many
not so famous artists listed.
- categories - Realist
Realist Art Website
Click on the link above to submit your Realist art or
famous Realism artist URL to our arts directory.
http://www.linkism.com/submit-art-site.htm - categories
|
<urn:uuid:14b2130f-9b11-4ef8-aaa5-1633132ccbe9>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.linkism.com/visual_artists/famous-artists/realist/index.htm
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783399106.96/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154959-00046-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.791273
| 182
| 2.5625
| 3
|
Researchers have shown off a prototype of a new biological battery cell, which produces energy in the same way we do—by breaking down sugars and fats into something a little more useful.
The prototype biofuel batteries are powered by mitochondria, the tiny biological components that digest our food and power the cells of our bodies. A layer of these, sandwiched between two layers electrodes, resulted in usable power being generated after the brave little mitochondria were fed with sugar or waste cooking oil.
Shelley Minteer, Ph.D., said of the new cells "When further developed, these devices have the potential for replacing disposable and rechargeable batteries in a wide variety of consumer electronics and other products. It is the first such device based on one of the microscopic parts of the billions upon billions of cells that make up the body." [Newswire via Inhabitat]
|
<urn:uuid:0ebacb57-1acd-4b6f-9a6b-c4f3432a25e4>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://gizmodo.com/5622384/living-batteries-will-perform-better-after-three-snickers-bars-and-a-coke?tag=cells
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783408840.13/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624155008-00118-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.940382
| 177
| 3.546875
| 4
|
Carbon-cycle feedback smaller, but still positive
Jan 27, 2010 10 comments
Researchers in Switzerland and Germany have analysed data stretching back 1000 years to get the best estimate yet of how changes in global temperature affect the biosphere's ability to soak up carbon dioxide. The team found that this feedback coefficient is about five times smaller than previously expected – which suggests that the amplification of manmade global warming by carbon-cycle feedback will be less than previously thought. Furthermore, the reduced uncertainty of this latest result could lead to better predictions of climate change caused by increasing amounts of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
To understand climate change, scientists need to know how changes in global temperature affect the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Rising temperatures could, for example, turn a green landscape into a desert, which would reduce that region's ability to absorb carbon dioxide. Conversely, a warmer climate could lengthen the growing season in mid and high latitudes, increasing the absorption of carbon dioxide in these places. Changes in temperature could also affect the amount of carbon dioxide produced by the vast numbers of micro-organisms in soil.
The overall effect of this "feedback" is expected to be positive – higher temperatures leads to less carbon dioxide being absorbed, which means more of the gas in the atmosphere, which in turn makes the climate even warmer. However, scientists have struggled to get a precise value for the feedback coefficient – a process that involves studying historical carbon dioxide and temperature data.
The best estimate had been that a rise in the mean global temperature of one degree boosts the carbon dioxide concentration by about 40 parts per million by volume (40 ppmv/°C) – but this could be off by 30 ppmv/°C or more. Such a large uncertainty makes the prediction of future carbon dioxide levels – and therefore future temperatures – all the more difficult. Indeed, 40% of the uncertainty in such predictions can be attributed to carbon dioxide feedback.
Now, David Frank and colleagues at the Swiss Federal Research Institute in Birmensdorf, the University of Bern and the Gutenberg University in Mainz have performed the most comprehensive analysis of carbon dioxide and temperature data yet. The team studied the period 1050–1800 AD, when manmade emissions were small enough to be ignored. Carbon dioxide levels were determined from three Antarctic ice cores. Average temperatures in the northern hemisphere were derived from nine different "proxy reconstructions" of temperature – average temperatures derived mostly from tree rings and the isotopic content of ice cores.
Two distinct periods
Frank and colleagues conclude that the feedback coefficient is probably about 2–21 ppmv/°C, with 8 ppmv/°C being the median value. The team also found that the coefficient appears to be significantly different in the periods 1050–1549 and 1550–1800 – when it was about 4 and 16 ppmv/°C respectively. The former era corresponds roughly to the "medieval warm period" and 1550–1800 to the "little ice age" – which experienced different patterns of global temperature and precipitation. As a result, Frank and colleagues believe that the shift from one period to the next could have decreased the carbon storage capabilities of some parts of the globe.
The research excludes the previously accepted value of 40 ppmv/°C with a confidence of 95% and provides further evidence that the coefficient is positive rather than negative. The latter is important because it suggests that the biosphere will not be able to soak up manmade emissions of carbon dioxide, which are believed to contribute to global warming.
The work is described in Nature 463 527.
About the author
Hamish Johnston is editor of physicsworld.com
|
<urn:uuid:264e65fd-da85-4eb5-b31c-9f6126f4f1b5>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://physicsworld.com/cws/article/news/2010/jan/27/carbon-cycle-feedback-smaller-but-still-positive
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783393533.44/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154953-00137-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.940451
| 740
| 3.515625
| 4
|
Catalogue No: UT51026
Shop Product Code: 2527905
As in his days, Johann Sebastian Bach's Inventions form an integral part of the piano teaching literature even today. The three selected examples with facsimile give an insight into Bach's teaching workshop and his aim to teach his pupils 'to cultivate a cantabile style of playing and to gain from the beginning a strong foretaste of composition'. The edited musical text of the new edition is based on the revision of all inventions and symphonies of the composer presented by Ulrich Leisinger in 2007.
The Wiener Urtext Edition is a critical musicological edition for practical use and is distinguished from many other Urtext editions by comprehensive textual information in German and English and partly also in French.
REASONS FOR WIENER URTEXT
• Reliable musical text on the basis of the sources reflecting the composers’ ideas as authentic as possible
• Significant text variants for performance practice
• Useful fingerings for musical practice
• Page layout for practical use with convenient page turns
• Clearly printed, reader-friendly layout on high-contrast music paper
• Sustainably printed with green power
Write a Review. The best reviewer each month wins 20% off their next order!
There are currently no reviews for this product.
|
<urn:uuid:a063f2f3-b595-4f4f-be7b-b705edd95760>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.boosey.com/shop/prod/3-Two-Part-Inventions/2067242
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783402746.23/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624155002-00112-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.926333
| 272
| 2.515625
| 3
|
Polish scientists are coming to the aid of a zoo penguin that lost its beak in a fight or a fall by using a 3D printer to create a new one.
Keepers at Warsaw Zoo say that, without a new bill, the animal's chances of survival are slim because it can no longer preen or feed itself.
Now a company distributing 3D printers may have saved the day. "We had gone to the zoo to see if they could use any of our 3D technology and didn't know anything about the bird at first," Bartek Jarkiewicz, from MTT Polska, said. "Then they said they had a penguin with a problem and asked if we could come up with a new beak."
Scientists from Omni3D, a Polish producer of printers, have made a 3D scan of a penguin's beak to get an idea of the shape and dimensions needed, and plan to produce the first beak, made out of a hi-tech plastic, next week.
|
<urn:uuid:46d02465-300f-4286-a722-600ebdf1a941>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.theage.com.au/world/penguin-with-broken-beak-to-get-3d-pickmeup-20140322-hvlkl.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783394605.61/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154954-00058-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.971689
| 211
| 3.1875
| 3
|
A descriptive inventory of diverse holdings that constitute a research archive for literary, historical, and cultural documents from the war to end all wars
The Joseph M. Bruccoli Great War Collection at the University of South Carolina was established in 1997 by Matthew J. and Arlyn Bruccoli and named for Professor Bruccoli's father, who was wounded in the war. An expansive research archive for the literary, historical, and cultural aspects of World War I from the vantages of many of the combatant nations, the collection is housed in the Thomas Cooper Library on the University of South Carolina campus in Columbia.
The Bruccoli Great War Collection holds more than 4,000 items, including 3,400 print materials comprising military training manuals, illustrated wartime magazines, trench newspapers, novels and poetry of the war, letters, diaries, postcards, scrapbooks, photo albums, and glass slides. The collection also includes some 500 pieces of sheet music and more than 175 posters from the United States, Great Britain, France, Italy, Poland, Russia, and Austria. The comprehensive collection was expanded in 2002 through the incorporation of hundreds of books and documents from Joseph Cohen's research collection on World War I literature—additions that include extremely rare work by British poet Isaac Rosenberg. The Bruccoli collection's highlights include one of five known copies of Rosenberg's first publication, Night and Day (with a manuscript poem by the author and with his corrections), English and French editions of works by American poet Alan Seeger, and the complete 180-issue run of the Times Broadsheets.
A descriptive and illustrated inventory of the collection, The Joseph M. Bruccoli Great War Collection at the University of South Carolina: An Illustrated Catalogue provides a reference tool for the study of one of the great watershed moments in history on both sides of the Atlantic serving historians, researchers, and collectors.
Elizabeth Sudduth is the head of Rare Books and Special Collections Processing and Services for the Thomas Cooper Library at the University of South Carolina.
Matthew J. Bruccoli was the Jefferies Professor of English at the University of South Carolina.
"The Bruccoli Great War Collection impresses me enormously with the imagination and scope of its vision, as a scholar's treasure trove of cultural and historical resources, much of it unusual and rare—contemporary writings, sheet music, popular artwork, and design. In telling the story of how this collection came into being, Professor Matthew Bruccoli's compelling introduction serves as valuable inspiration to all those who have been involved in similar endeavours to collect and preserve historical materials."—Hugh P. Cecil, honorary lecturer, University of Leeds, and trustee and cofounder of the Second World War Experience Centre, Leeds, United Kingdom
|
<urn:uuid:e1d6477d-a4a1-418f-a926-d40b32e11a35>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.sc.edu/uscpress/books/2005/3590.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783393518.22/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154953-00199-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.930874
| 549
| 2.625
| 3
|
A history of new ideas in tanning1 September 2013
Dr Graham Lampard charts the history of major technological breakthroughs in the history of leather tanning and asks where the key areas of focus should be for innovation within today’s industry
The first IULTCS congress back in 1897, held at the Herold's Institute and the Leathersellers Hall, London, brought together 20 or so of the world's - or in this case Europe's - leading tanners. Note that it was the tanners, not chemists or scientists, who accounted for the vast majority of attendees - granted, Prof Procter and Dr Gordon-Parker were there, but they were very much in the minority.
They gathered to discuss how best to "bring about uniformity of method in the analysis of tanning extracts and materials." It was the "hot topic" of the day. The majority of leather was tanned with vegetable extracts and the tanners were concerned that they were unable to produce consistently good leather because the percentage of tannin in a batch was very much in dispute. It depended greatly on how the extract was sampled, whether it was a liquid or a solid and what the impurities were.
110 years later the "hot topic" would appear to be "tanning theory": we all tan hides and skins, and those tanners who do it as a business do it very well, meeting all the requirements put before them, both from the end-users perspective and from the legislative point of view. However, a comprehensive tanning mechanism still seems elusive. Even the greatest leather scientist of the current age with his Link- Lock theory still seems unsure whether it is a "dark art or a clear possibility".
Prof Dr A D Covington said at the IULTCS's Valencia congress in 2011: "Predicting the outcome of any technological change in complex systems of leather processing is not an exact science. Nevertheless, by adopting the kind of approach set out here, drawing on both scientific and technological principles, it is possible to go a long way towards accurate and useful prediction of the effects of concurrent and consecutive process steps. This can make developmental programmes much more efficient.
"Perhaps more importantly, the ideas proposed here will allow prediction of not only the processes designed to make leathers with desired properties, but also the constitution of reagents to achieve the end. This constitutes a paradigm shift in thinking and, hence, in creating strategies for advancing leather development and for defining and making new collagenic biomaterials."
Also in Valencia in 2011, Ellie Brown from the USDA's Eastern Regional Research Center, reviewed the development of tanning theory. She said early bark tanning likely started with the soaking of hides in pits lined with tree bark, and evolved into milling or crushing the bark to increase surface area and make the tannins more available. The remnants of mills for crushing bark prior to 1500 BC have been identified. The crushed bark was placed in a pit with water and skins were soaked with the tannins released from the bark to produce strong, pliable, durable leather. Similar processes are currently used in several countries.
By the Middle Ages, tanning was designated a craft, and tanners guilds (the model for IULTCS and the various local organisations) began to form. The next major period of innovation came with the Industrial Age of the 1800s when the tanning drum largely replaced the open pit and greatly increased the efficiency of tanning. By 1840, the medical community had adopted sutures that were stabilised by soaking in a Cr (III) solution. A few years later, it was discovered that soaking these chrome tanned sutures in glycerol made them more pliable, or softer. These two advances in medical technology were soon adapted by tanners and became chrome tanning and fatliquoring. By empirical methods, over millennia, several classes of tanning agents with a variety of properties have been identified.
She continued: the function of tanning is to stabilise the structure of the collagen matrix of the hide or skin, increase its hydrothermal stability and protect it from microbial degradation. Current commercial tanning agents, include mineral (mainly Cr(III)), vegetable (polyphenolic tannin), and organic (aldehyde) reagents. The product of each of these tannages is leather, despite the different chemistries. From a 21st century perspective, none of these processes is ideal, and a comprehensive tanning mechanism would provide a basis for the design of more sustainable and eco-friendly tanning processes. The goal of a comprehensive tanning mechanism that can explain the effects of current and past practices, predict requirements for new reagents and processes, and accurately predict the outcomes of proposed new practices is one that leather scientists have pursued at least since the early 20th century.
The following paragraphs present a brief survey of the work of a few internationally recognised leather scientists who during the 20th century made major contributions to the understanding of the structures of collagen and tanning materials and possible interactions between them. Although the evolution of tanning processes occurred slowly prior to the industrial revolution, technical advances of the 20th century, combined with increasing use of collagen in medical biomaterials, began to provide a basis for understanding the relationship between collagen structure and function in both biology and technology.
The early 20th century was a time of rapid development in both basic sciences and applied technologies. This period saw a large increase in scientific publication to document advances in theoretical and applied science. The documented history of the quest for a comprehensive tanning mechanism is a bibliography of great scientists worldwide who applied their talents to this search. H R Proctor (UK) started the field with the 1914 publication of: "The Making of Leather", a book that detailed the then "state of the art" for leather technology and science and formed the base for future research.
Following Proctor, Brown stated, was J A Wilson (USA) who spent his lifetime merging the practice of tanning with the academic science of collagen, and served as an interpreter of basic science to the industrial leather chemists and technologists. Three of Wilson's publications were major reviews of the then current knowledge of the relationship between collagen function and structure. A 1919 publication applied the principles of colloid chemistry to the production of leather, proposing that tanning occurred primarily through electrostatic interactions between tannin molecules and charged sites on the surface of the skin or hide. The following decade was one of rapid advances in most scientific areas, and in the1928 Chandler Lecture at Columbia University, entitled "Chemistry and Leather", Wilson recognised that leather chemistry was very much concerned with the molecular structure of the protein, collagen, and that the interaction between collagen and chromium was not the simple binding of a Cr3+ ion to collagen.
In Wilson's final presentation in 1941, structures were beginning to be proposed for vegetable tannin molecules with the potential for multipoint fixation to the fibrous structure of collagen. The effect of these tanning materials on the shrinkage temperature of collagen was recognized as a reliable indicator of degree of tanning.
Brown noted the Swedish leather chemist, K H Gustavson was active between 1920 and 1969 when details of the shape and composition of collagen molecules became available. He brought to the attention of the leather technologists the unusual amino acid composition of collagen including the presence of 30% glycine, 25% proline plus hydroxyproline and a small amount of the unique hydroxylysine residue as well as a paucity of aromatic and sulphur containing residues. During this time, the molecular architecture of collagen with its periodic pattern of dense and more open areas, and the nonhelical telopeptides to guide the formation of fibres was also becoming apparent.
Gustavson's personal research, documented in more than 200 publications, provided a large data base of the reactions of chromium salts, polyphenols and aldehydes with collagen as a start to the molecular understanding of tanning. The Indian scientist G N Ramachandran, closely associated with the Central Leather Research Centre in what was then called Madras (now Chennai), determined many of the stereochemical characteristics of collagen that contribute to the success of tanning processes.
Brown explained that Ramachandran's work in the 1950-1970 period established that to explain the X-ray diffraction pattern, the single chain, left-handed helices must super coil into a right-handed triple helix. The presence of a glycine residue, lacking side chain carbons, at every third position in the chain, was the only option for the triple helix. Although nearly any other amino acid could be accommodated in the other positions, the presence of hydroxyproline, with its potential for hydrogen bonding to water immediately preceding a glycine, contributed significantly to the stability of the helical structure.
Finally, Brown reviewed the work of Heidemann, after whom the IULTCS Heidemann Lecture is named. She said E R Heidemann of the Darmstadt school was a leading educator on the roles of collagen structure and function as pertaining to tanning, in the latter part of the 20th century. Heidemann's career began with publications of fundamental studies on the nature and reactions of collagen in the 1960s, and culminated with the publication of "Fundamentals of Leather Manufacturing" in 1993.
He was among the first to explore the molecular level interactions of collagen peptides with tanning materials of various types. He clearly enunciated the long-term benefits of fundamental research into the structures of hide protein components, tanning and fatliquoring agents and the other materials that are necessary to produce a fine piece of leather. As did his predecessors, he applied the fundamental research results to the practical problems experienced by tanners. Thus, over the 20th century, innumerable academic and leather scientists, elucidated details of the unique molecular structure of collagen.
Brown then went on to review the work looking at tanning baths. During this same period, tanning baths were being analysed to determine the composition of tanning mixtures and the structures of probable tanning agents. Early attention was given to vegetable tannins, where the process is still closely related to the bark tanning practiced 3,000-4,000 years ago, although polyphenolic tannin extracts from tannin rich plants including mimosa, quebracho, and chestnut are now in common use.
Lollar's comprehensive review at the mid 20th century concluded that the previous 50 years of research had revealed many facets of the chemistry of tannins, but the conclusions drawn by different investigators were inconsistent. Lollar was optimistic that the tools then available would shortly produce correct structures and chemistries. Considerable research since that time has confirmed the complexity and non-homogenity of vegetable tanning agents, and has led most researchers in this area to develop model systems to gather data from a few polyphenolic compounds and extrapolate the results to the tanning process.
Na's 1988 study using monomeric polyphenols showed that only those polyphenols with acid functionality could bind directly to collagen. However, when tannin solutions were allowed to stand, auto-polymerisation led to the formation of much larger species that could compete for hydrogen-bonding sites on collagen, thus stabilising the fibre structure. Haslam in 1997 first proposed that these larger tannin complexes contribute to collagen stabilisation by filling gap regions of the fibril.
Aldehyde tanning originated in the reaction of smoke with cured hides, and the use of formaldehyde as a tanning agent was patented before 1900. Theis and co-workers, in the late 1930s, published extensively on the chemistry of the reaction between formaldehyde and collagen, noting that even when the substrate was soluble collagen, formaldehyde could react with only a fraction of the amino side chains.
Brown concluded that little more than hundred years ago the question was whether the stabilisation of hides by treatment with mineral salts could properly be called tanning. The nomenclature question has clearly been resolved, and chrome tanning accounts for about 90% of the production of high quality leathers today. Less clear still are the natures of the tanning species and the tanning reaction, and the final product. Basic chrome sulphate (BCS), the usual tanning salt, is most likely a mixture of mono and polynuclear chromium species bridged with oxygen, hydroxyl and possibly sulphate groups.
The composition is fluid, and with addition of masking agents even less well defined. The chrome tanning reaction has traditionally been described as cross linking of carboxyl groups on collagen by multinuclear chromium complexes. The formation of both intra- and interfibrillar crosslinks in collagen when treated with different chrome tanning formulations has been demonstrated. Leather researchers at the Eastern Regional Research Center (ERRC), USDA, over the past 70 years, have pursued research that contributes to the search for a comprehensive tanning theory. One of the earliest publications from the centre dealt with the stabilisation of vegetable tanned leathers. In fundamental studies of collagen structure, ERRC leather scientists of the 1940s and '50s used electron microscopy, then an emerging technique, to obtain micrographs of cattle hide collagen in its native state and after the various steps of beamhouse processing. In the 1970s, they examined the effects of hydration on collagen structure and the flexibility of the non helical regions. The fundamental understanding of collagen structure was advanced in the 1980s through studies of fibril assembly.
The closest we come to a comprehensive tanning theory is Covington's theory based on the link-lock concept that requires an initial reaction to link the collagen into the surrounding matrix of water and a second reaction component to lock the linked structure together, creating a macromolecular structure around the triple helices, and is the most interesting current proposal. The application of theoretical and experimental tools to the exploration of this concept should provide valuable insights to the mechanism.
The whole concept of "breakthrough" is rather misleading. As the above shows, it is more a series of small steps over a period of time, by various scientists and groups. Initially, it was in the first world, now it is mainly in Asia, and particularly China, where the fundamental work will be undertaken.
|
<urn:uuid:1251f667-7025-44e9-9dab-bc47b41a0f44>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.leathermag.com/features/featurea-history-of-new-ideas-in-tanning/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783404382.73/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624155004-00031-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.955338
| 2,950
| 2.734375
| 3
|
The crystalline injection technology
Dehumidification of buildings and the lack of vertical and horizontal insulation in buildings with basements have always been the most important technological problems during renovation work. These problems have become even more ailing after last year's floods. The method of buildings' dehumidification, worked out by PhD Wojciech Nawrot from the Military Academy of Technology in Warszawa is very useful in solving the problem. The invention, winner of numerous awards at the world's most important exhibitions of inventions, precisely concerns the dehumidification of buildings, which got dump when ground waters went up. Wojciech Nawrot's solution boils down to the creation of vertical and horizontal insulation by injecting, into the building material (brickwork), water-insoluble crystallised minerals.
This technology has a number of strong points - it is the cheapest technology of building dehumidification in Poland, is ecology-oriented, the insulation can be made of mineral preparations made in Poland and from Polish substances. And the dumpier the brickwork is, the more efficient the method proves to be. That is why injection openings in the brickwork are additionally humidified before injection. The blockade made this way is long lasting one as is based on the unique in the nature phenomena of self-organisation of crystals. The technology can be used to make vertical and horizontal insulation from the inside of the buildings without disclosing external brickwork. It can be used to the dehumidification of any type of brickwork, irrespective of their width, and degree of humidity and salinity.
Following is the way of preparing horizontal insulation:
1. Injection openings are drilled horizontally at the same level of the brickwork in parallel to the level of the floor in the basement, irrespective of whether the building has the basement or not. 20-millimetre-diameter openings are made by percussive-rotary hammers in the distance ranging between 10-15 centimetres, depending on the degree of salinity.
2. Injection openings prepared this way are damped with water containing the injection agent with 0.5 litre-water-stream under pressure, which, apart from additionally wetting the opening, removes any obstacles from the way of the injection agent.
3. About 30 minutes after the wetting of the openings, injection agent consisting of respective proportions of Portland cement, silicate activator and water, is introduced gravitationally. During the injection, the mixture should easily pour out by a 2 centimetre-diameter opening. In this technology, the injection agent is at the same time the agent blanking the openings. After the injection, the openings can be additionally blanked with the same, but denser, injection agent.
4. The injection mixture should be prepared directly before its use and used within 30 minutes after adding water to the mixture components.
Vertical insulation is made in the same way. Injection openings are made in the way they were made in the case of horizontal insulation. The difference consists in the spacing of openings inside the building. In the external wall, openings are made horizontally and vertically each 20 centimetres. In cases of exceptionally high degree of salinity, the openings should be made each 15 centimetres. The author of the patent PhD Wojciech Nawrot prepares the activator for the injection mixture. The composition of the activator depends on the type of material of which the brickwork is made and the degree of salinity.
Since July 1987 over 7 thousand buildings have been dehumidificated in Poland and abroad. 134 home and 16 western-European firms have used the license of crystalline injection. The method helped to restore the National Theatre in Warszawa, F.Chopin house in Zelazowa Wola, the Field Cathedral of the Polish Army, Last Supper Chapel at Jasna Göra Holly Mary Shrine and the headquarters of the Polish Navy in Gdynia.
The technology won six gold medals at innovations exhibitions in Brussels, Geneva, Pittsburgh, Beijing, Casablanca, and Nuremberg. This fact was noticed by the World Organisation of Inventors and, Following its motion, the author of the technology was awarded with the Commander's Cross. The ceremony took place in Brussels on November 11,1997, which marks Poland's national day. Polish honourable accompanies numerous foreign awards mentions: that of minister of culture and arts, chairman of the Committee for Scientific Research and that granted by the president of Warszawa - the medal of marking the four hundredth anniversary of Warszawa.
|
<urn:uuid:3f330698-5e12-48c0-ad36-05c2f1a6aff0>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.i-k.pl/index.php/english
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783396959.83/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154956-00091-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.938343
| 943
| 2.78125
| 3
|
The Life of Matthew Flinders
In Estensen, Flinders has at last found his Boswell.' Paul Brunton, The Weekend Australian.. Estensen's book is a work of painstaking scholarship, worn lightly it will be an enduring contribution to Australian history.' Gillian Dooley, Australian Book Review.. Estensen gives us the ups and downs of the man in the commander's jacket. She has taken an 18th century mariner and made a 21st century man of him.' Martin Terry, Sydney Morning Herald..In 1790, a stubborn sixteen-year-old defied his father and went to sea. Here began the remarkable career of Matthew Flinders R.N., a career that ended in his fortieth year just days after the publication of A Voyage to Terra Australis, his life's work detailing his epic voyage of circumnavigation of the Great South Land...The Life of Matthew Flinders is a story of persistence and audacious risk-taking, driving ambition and frustration, obstinate determination and doubt. It is a richly detailed account of tragedy and short-lived triumph, of exile on an enemy island, of love thwarted and a painful early death. It is also the story of a man who became one of the great navigators of the nineteenth century, an adventurer who left an indelible mark on a continent and a nation. ides her time between researching the life of George Bass, Matthew Flinders' close firend and fellow adventurer, and investigating a new theory of the origins of the Viking outbreak. Her Discovery: The Quest for the Great South Land was published in Sydney and New York to critical acclaim.
|
<urn:uuid:46b7cb79-0f50-41fb-8913-629ae2a37346>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.booktopia.com.au/ebooks/the-life-of-matthew-flinders-miriam-estensen/prod9781741155334.html?deviceType=mobile
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783402746.23/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624155002-00180-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.9459
| 332
| 2.546875
| 3
|
What is the Religion of Mark Cuban
The island of Cuba has been occupied for about several thousand years by Amerindian peoples known as the Taino and Ciboney. The Taino were known to be mostly farmers while the Ciboney were hunter-gatherers. The name Cuba in fact is derived from the Taino word cubanacan, which means "a central placeĒ. Christopher Columbus sighted the island during his number one voyage of discovery on 24 October 1492, and instantly laid claim it for Spain.
Spain ruled the island of Cuba for 388 years, dominated by the governor of Havana. It had an economic base of plantation agriculture and main exportations of refined sugar, coffee and tobacco to European Community and in the future to North America. British clutched the island in 1762, but gave it to Spain the following year. Like most of the Spanish Empire, a small land-owning elect of colonists maintained all the social and economic force. They were attended to by a population of modest farmers, laborers and slaves.
Many architectural masterpieces reconstructed during Spanish rule still stand today. An excellent model is the Catedral de San Cristobal, Havana. During the 1820s, when the rest of Spainís conglomerate in South America arose and seceeded, Cuba stayed loyal, though some fought for independence. Partly because concerns of a slave revolt (as had materialized in Haiti) if the Spanish pulled away, partly because the prosperity of Cuban settlers counted on their export trade to Europe, and partly because Cuba feared the surfacing power of the United States more than they disliked Spanish colonial regulation.
Due to the fact that Cuba is a mere 90 miles from the United States has had a fundamental influence on the lands growth. Politicians in the south diagrammed the islandís annexation as a way of supporting the pro-slavery forces in the U.S. throughout the early 1900ís. In 1848 a pro-annexationist insurrection was foiled after many failed invasion atemps from Florida proved fruitless. After that the United States attempted to buy Cuba from Spain but was always declined.
Rural poverty in Spain led to a significant Spanish expatriation to Cuba. Among those arriving were the parents of Fidel Castro. During the 1890s pro-independence turmoil revivified, fueled by resentment of the limitations inflicted on Cuban trade by Spain and hostility to Spainís progressively tyrannous and bungling administration of Cuba. On 15 July 1895 rebellion erupted and the independence party, led by Tomas Estrada Palma and the poet Jose Marti, exclaimed Cuba an independent republic. Marti was killed not far thereafter and has become Cubaís undisputed national hero.
This abbreviated paper canít possibly address the immense chronicle that is Cuba. I have named many excellent books at the conclusion of this site. You can buy them all at Amazon or your local bookshop.
Cuba: A New History by Richard Gott
The Cuba Reader: History, Culture, Politics (Latin America Readers) by Aviva Chomsky, Barry Carr, and Pamela Maria Smorkaloff
This is Cuba: An Outlaw Culture Survives by Ben Corbett
Inside Cuba by Julio Cesar Perez Hernandez, Angelika Taschen, and Giani Bosso
|
<urn:uuid:c042f5c0-4677-4487-a8b6-9739c61468e5>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.cubanforyou.com/What-is-the-Religion-of-Mark-Cuban.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783404826.94/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624155004-00085-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.965889
| 673
| 3.40625
| 3
|
The importance of food labels
As more Americans try to eat healthier, consumers are trying to find out more information about the food they purchase at the grocery store. And that means reading the labels. But terms like "organic" and "all natural" can be confusing. Lorraine Rapp and Linda Lowen, hosts of WRVO's health and wellness program "Take Care," recently spoke to NYU professor of sociology and nutrition, Dr. Marion Nestle about how the U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulates food labels and how consumers have demanded changes in those rules.
Lorraine Rapp: The term "100 percent natural" -- would you say that's one of the hot button terms that needs a stricter definition and law enforcement?
Dr. Nestle: Yes, that and "added sugars," I think, are the two big ones that are under discussion right now. I recently signed a petition to the FDA to have "added sugars" added to the nutrition facts label, because there's a difference between added sugars and those that are naturally present -- there's that word again -- naturally present in food. And I think those two go together. People want to know what's being added to their foods. And unless you're a very sophisticated label reader, it's very difficult to figure that out.
Lorraine Rapp: The term "100 percent natural," what does it mean? Do you have to prove anything? How will the FDA make that definition? What's the process that might take place?
Dr. Nestle: The FDA has a very elaborate process. It's regulatory people propose a rule, that rule -- that proposed rule -- gets put in the federal register and then is open to public comment, and interested parties will right in over some period of time. The FDA will then take those comments into consideration, and then do a final rule. And that will go into effect. It takes years.
Lorraine Rapp: Dr. Nestle, can you give us an example of of where that has been successfully done, where consumers have gotten together and forced something to change?
Dr. Nestle: Sure, the trans fat label is an obvious example. The Center for the Science in the Public Interest spent 12 years begging, pleading petitioning the FDA to list trans fats on the food label and eventually the FDA did. And overnight, companies removed trans fats from their products, so there's hardly a processed food in the supermarket that reports any trans fat in its products. I thought that was a great success.
Linda Lowen: Dr. Nestle, the removal of trans fats occurred at a time, probably, when social media, blogging and all that information sharing wasn't really going on. Do you see this ability for consumers to band together to be an effective mode of implementing change?
Dr. Nestle: Well, it can be if it's not overused. I mean, certainly, the blogger who was concerned about the beef product in hamburger, referred to unattractively as pink slime, generated hundreds of thousands of signatures on a petition to get that product labeled and out of the food supply, and that was a very effective use of social media. Others are less successful. If you get the attention of the press and you get the attention of people who are sending a lot of viral messages around, you can be very effective in generating a lot of attention to your issue.
More of this interview can be heard on "Take Care," WRVO's health and wellness show, Sunday at 6:30 p.m. Support for this story comes from the Health Foundation for Western and Central New York.
|
<urn:uuid:e0cf70eb-671a-4cd9-8985-a26c725369ac>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://wrvo.org/post/importance-food-labels
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783399117.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154959-00008-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.966581
| 739
| 3.046875
| 3
|
The arts have always been a core component of curricular and extra-curricular life at Beaver. From classrooms and performance spaces within the Visual and Performing Arts Center to the light-filled McElwain Art Studio, the school boasts state-of-the-art facilities that further this important tradition.
Cultivating Creativity and Self-expression
The visual and performing arts play a pivotal role in our curriculum as well as in the extracurricular lives of students. At Beaver, we recognize that participation in the arts cultivates creativity, self-expression, and self-discipline. For that reason, we have designed our schedule to ensure that students have the opportunity to take arts courses in each grade.
In the middle school, all students take an arts course every trimester, spending one term in each of three disciplines: visual arts, music, and theater. Studying the arts supports students as they move from concrete to more abstract ways of thinking and communicating, and encourages essential habits of mind that prepare them for the future.
In the upper school, our three-term system gives students the flexibility to take arts courses during all four years. All ninth- and tenth-graders are required to take an arts course during two of the three terms. In the eleventh and twelfth grades, students may continue to take arts electives while pursuing a full spectrum of other subjects. We offer an exciting array of advanced arts electives – from printmaking and sculpture, to acting and play production, to music theory, chorus, and jazz band.
In our arts programs, students work individually and collaboratively. Whether painting a mural, putting on a play, or performing in the chamber ensemble, students learn to work in groups while simultaneously developing and displaying their individual talents.
|
<urn:uuid:d07324a1-fc21-4d75-8fbf-7bc456c2239b>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.bcdschool.org/arts/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783396100.16/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154956-00139-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.949644
| 362
| 2.5625
| 3
|
The article was written at the request of a curator in the British Museum when I pointed out errors in a display of ancient games a few years ago. There have been some new developments, but they do not affect the thrust of the article. It may be used, with acknowledgement, in www pages and other Internet sites but not in paper print, and of course I do retain copyright (London 1995) and other associated rights.
Pinyin transliteration is used, except in quotations, and all translations are my own.
The Chinese game of weiqi, better known to us by its Japanese name go, has been done a great disservice by the chess historian H.J.R. Murray. In Murray 1952:35-36 he concludes his brief discussion of games in ancient China thus: "The oldest and best of the native Chinese games, wei-k'i, is not older than AD 1000." This is prefaced by other outrageous remarks: "... Chinese historians have always tended to exaggerate the age of their inventions and in particular the age of their games. Modern scholarship holds that the only Chinese board-games before the Christian era were simple games of the merels type, i.e. games of alinement. The yih mentioned by Confucius (551-479 BC) and Mencius (372-289 BC) was the smaller merels."
Yet only a year before, the great sinologue Bernhard Karlgren was castigating those who found it fashionable to pour scorn on the antiquity of Chinese texts: "It looks very scholarly and critical. But with few exceptions such condemnations are based on flimsy, insufficient and subjective arguments..." (Karlgren 1951:117)
Moreover, what was to Murray "modern scholarship", so far as I can see, totally contradicts his assertion. Limiting ourselves, in deference to his suspicions, to non-Chinese scholars, we find Dr Ogawa Takuji, for example, in a very important article (Ogawa 1933:79) stating: "It is correct to interpret yi as weiqi. There can be no doubt that the reference to yi in Mencius is used only in respect of weiqi." In Eberhard 1942:104-105, Professor Wolfram Eberhard more cautiously said thet yi "is normally equated to Wei-ch'i" but added unequivocally: "The term Wei-ch'i occurs as early as Han times," before the start of the Christian era. And Karl Himly, whom Murray approvingly quotes elsewhere in his piece, says the game, the same as the Japanese go, was "first mentioned in Tso Chuan, Analects [of Confucius] and Mencius" (Himly 1896:136-137).
As it happens, we do not need to rely on scholarly reputations to show that go is much older than Murray claims. We also have archaeological evidence. From China this includes a 17x17 stone board dated prior to 200 AD found in Wangdu County in 1954 and now in Beijing Historical Museum (Watanabe Y. 1977:119) and an exquisite picture on silk of a Tang lady playing go, also on a 17x17 board, excavated in 1974 at Torfan and dated around 750 AD (Watanabe Y. 1977:119-120; reproduced in colour in Go World 29, Autumn 1982). These discoveries post-date Murray, but full sets of go boards and stones have lain in the imperial repository, the Shosoin, in Nara, Japan, since the mid-8th century (see e.g. Masukawa 1987:1-8).
There is also a mass of background evidence - anecdotes, fairy stories, biographies, mathematical manuals, etc. - that refer to go and show it was well established in China, Japan and Korea well before 1000 AD.
I therefore propose to survey the evidence for the antiquity of go, although as there is so much it is possible here to attempt only a tour d'horizon, and even then I shall have to limit myself largely to China in the period before about 250 AD.
But, first, a note on terms: the modern name for go in China is weiqi (pronounced way-chee), which means the " surrounding game." In old texts, however, the ancient term yi is also used. Both have often been rendered "chess" in English, but proper Chinese chess is xiangqi. It is also useful to recall that modern go is played on boards of 19x19 lines (=361 points) with 181 black and 180 white "stones" (pieces). In ancient times 17x17 and even smaller boards were used with correspondingly fewer stones. Today only Tibetan go still uses 17x17 boards, with slightly different rules of play from go elsewhere (Cheng 1988; Fairbairn 1990; Watanabe H. 1983:54-61). In China, Japan and Korea the only major differences in the rules have been in the initial set-up, handicaps, and the method of counting up a finished game.
Recall also that liubo or bo refers to a race game (proto-backgammon?). Several other games are referred to in ancient texts, but I shall avoid referring to them. However, since many western games writers have, to their great detriment, ignored oriental research, I urge them to read, for example: Ogawa 1932, especially on wuzi (five stones: generally regarded as a precursor of gomoku but possibly a derivative of backgammon) and tanqi, a precursor of hasami-shogi; Kotaka 1943; Masukawa 1983; and Yang Y. 1946. For liubo see also Watanabe T. 1982 and Koizumi 1991.
2. THE LEGENDS OF THE SAGE KINGS AND DIVINATION
Most Chinese writings on go quote the legend: "Yao invented go in order to instruct his son Dan Zhu." Since Yao was a semi-mythical emperor of the 23rd century BC, this is usually rendered in English as: "Go is 4,000 years old."
This is but one legend, though the orthodox one. It is usually attributed to the scholar Zhang Hua, for the remark did appear in his "Bo Wu Zhi" [Record of the Investigation of Things], written about 270-290 AD (the ancient Chinese texts quoted here appear in many anthologies; for go the best are Shen [undated] and Liu 1985; on Zhang Hua and go see also Shirakawa 1993). However, he went on to add, with dry mockery: "Others say [Emperor] Shun regarded his son Shang Jun as stupid and invented go to instruct him." It is necessary to realise that, as many anecdotes show (e.g. Du 1987:11-19; Li 1980a; Watanabe Y. 1977:93-133), go had suddenly become enormously popular in Zhang's time, but was frowned upon by Confucian moralists - for Confucius appeared to regard it as only one step up from gluttony and idleness. The ascription of go to Yao, in fact based on the " Shi Ben" [Origins of History], a book of the Warring States period (475-221 BC), was designed to counter this, since the sage kings Yao and Shun found favour with Confucius. Zhang Hua's understated observation of the manners of his time should not be taken as credulity.
Indeed, the Chinese themselves have a long tradition of dismissing the legend out of hand, though using sometimes surprising arguments. For example, the preface to the celebrated " Xuanxuan Qijing" [Mysterious and Marvellous Go Manual] of 1347 says that go is the wrong thing to make a foolish son wise. Others of course chose to believe it. The Regional Inspector Tao Kan (259-334) had go and backgammon boards thrown into the Yangzi River because go was "for foolish sons" and because backgammon was supposedly invented by the evil tyrant Zhou around the 11th century BC (Watanabe Y. 1977:144).
Where the "Shi Ben" got the legend from is another matter. Its sources were the histories of various states from the dawn of Chinese history. The version of the text we now have simply says Yao invented go [yi] and Dan Zhu was adept at it. It appears there has been a conflation of different legends, as one reason Yao and Shun were regarded as wise was that they perceived that their sons were unworthy to follow them and appointed outsiders as their heirs. However, Yao was also associated in legend with calendar making and divination, and here it becomes easy to see a possible link with go.
Divination in China seems to have been associated first with agriculture. Certainly the Shang (16th-11th century BC) used cracks in animal bones and turtle shells to predict harvests and the weather. Interestingly, too, divination was associated with the legendary Yellow River Diagram and the Luo Record. These were supposedly revealed to the Great Ancestor Fu Xi on the back of a dragon-horse and a turtle that rose out of the Yellow and Luo Rivers respectively. They are just magic squares, but the Chinese have always depicted them in the same way as go diagrams.
The Shang were displaced by the Zhou, who shifted the emphasis of the oracles to predicting the influences of the heavenly bodies. This was the period when the enduring yin-yang theory took shape. Their view of the cosmos was widely admired and quoted even by later go writers. For example, in the "Yi Zhi" [The Essence of Go] the famous historian Ban Gu (32-92 AD) said: " The board must be square and represents the laws of the earth. The lines must be straight like the divine virtues. There are black and white stones, divided like yin and yang. Their arrangement on the board is like a model of the heavens."
Even a book as late as "Wang You Qing Le Ji" [The Carefree and Innocent Pastime Collection: the oldest surviving go manual, from the early 12th century - though it is actually an anthology of older texts] begins: "The number of all things in Nature begins with one. The points on the go board number three hundred and sixty plus one. One is the first of all living numbers. It occupies the polar point of the board around which the four quarters revolve. The other 360 points represent the number of days in a [lunar] year. They are divided into four quarters which represent the four seasons...", and so on in similar vein. This text is from the section "Qijing Shisan Pian" [Go Manual in 13 Chapters].
Though popular - similar texts exist, for example, for backgammon - such ideas clearly belong to Ban Gu's time and later, and have nothing to do with the invention of go (but may well be linked with the transition from 17x17 to 19x19 boards).
3. GO AND WAR
A more likely source for the origin of go lies in the way Zhou divination changed. Originally the heavens were asked what Fate had in store for all sorts of ventures, but Man being what he is, these ventures became increasingly warlike, so that typical oracle sessions (as recorded on the bones) would be: "A sign was given; this spring the king, in attacking the X clan, will be able to call out 5,000 men to wage war" or "On the 8th day, we will slay 2,656 men in battle" (Watanabe Y. 1977:64-65).
Assuming the existence of a divining board, perhaps based on the magic-square diagrams, it is then easy to imagine go evolving from sessions around the board with black and white pieces, conceivably placed in shapes resembling cracks in shells or bones, with priests arguing over possible interpretations. Or perhaps military men: there is a reference in Chapter 1 of Sun Zi's "Bing Fa" [Art of War, c. 5th century BC] to counting " factors" in the ancestral temple before an engagement. See Lau 1965:331-332 and Sawyer 1993:437. There is also the use of lodestones and magnetic divining boards to consider - see Needham 1962.
Though still speculative, this version of go history seems to be the most favoured at the moment, and if true suggests a date for its creation perhaps somewhere between the 10th and 4th centuries BC.
Whatever its origin, go became a much-used metaphor for war later. The "Qijing Shisan Pian" just quoted, for example, is modelled on Sun Zi's Art of War, not just in the number of chapters but in its phraseology. Mao Zedong was also fond of using the analogy (Boorman 1969). Nonetheless, except insofar as the speculation above is justified, go seems never to have had strong associations with warfare, unlike chess. Even its terminology is elusive - the many ancient terms that survive refer mainly to hand movements (block, push, throw, etc.).
4. GO IN THE CLASSICS
Turning now to the early literature, the first reference is normally considered to be in either the "Zuo Zhuan" [Zuo's Commentary on the Spring and Autumn Annals] or the Analects of Confucius. The latter was compiled by disciples of Confucius some time after his death in 479 BC. The former is dated to 424 BC (Potter 1985-86:21) or later, but refers to an historical event in 547-8 BC and so it seems reasonable to give this priority. (Although Watanabe Y. 1977:70 also puts forward for consideration a possible reference written in 91 BC but relating to 681 BC.)
The "Zuo Zhuan" text (Duke Xiang, Year 25) reads: "Duke Xian of Wei ... ... went to speak with Ning Xi. Ning Xi promised [to collaborate with him]. When the Grand Uncle Wen Zi heard about this, he said: "Alas! ... Ning is now dealing with his ruler with less care than if he were playing go. How can he escape disaster? If a go player establishes his groups without making them safe, he will not defeat his opponent. How much worse if he establishes a ruler without making him safe."
Confucius's reference (Analects, Book XVII, 22) is unflattering: "It is difficult for a man who always has a full stomach to put his mind to some use. Are there not players of [liu]bo and go? Even playing these games is better than being idle."
The next major reference is by Mencius, a follower of Confucius. He gives two references. In one (Mencius, Book IV, B-30) it is linked with liubo and wine as an unfilial thing that leads to malnourishment of one's parents. In the other (Book VI, A-9), he gives this parable:
"Now the art of go is but a minor art. Yet if one does not apply one's mind to it and bend one's will, one cannot master it. Go player Qiu is the best player in the land. Suppose he teaches two people to play, and one applies his mind and bends his will and listens to what Qiu has to say. The other, however, listens to him but his mind is on a swan he imagines is approaching and he wants to take up his bow and arrows and shoot it. Although he is studying with the first player, he will not be as good. Is this because he is not as intelligent? I say no."
All these classical references are to yi. Admittedly none of them tells us what the game is, and we have to wait until Han times (206 BC - 220 AD) for detailed descriptions that confirm yi is go. But the weight of tradition cannot be ignored, for there is a continuum of references to yi between the Confucian era and Han times. Interestingly they often imply that it is a game of skill, and as will be shown below a rather high level had already been reached by Han times, and then beyond, although in the Han the term weiqi emerged. Yin Xi, for example, in the "Guan Yin Zi" [Book of Master Yin] of the late Zhou period (4th-3rd century BC) says: "Take the accomplishments of archery, chariot-driving, playing the zither, and go: in none of these is it possible to stop learning." Liu An's "Huai Nan Zi" [Book of the Prince of Huai Nan] (c. 140 BC) also says: "To play but one game of go [qi] is insufficient to know wisdom."
5. CONFUSION IN HAN AND WEI TIMES
As to why yi was first used whereas weiqi became usual later, the answer is probably found in the book "Fang Yan" [Dialects] by the Han scholar Yang Xiong (53 BC - 18 AD) which says, "Yi refers to weiqi. East of the Hangu Pass in the states of Qi and Lu everyone says yi." Lu, now Shandong Province, was the home of both Confucius and Mencius and so yi was naturally the term used by them.
Another early statement of the meaning of yi is in the dictionary "Shuo Wen Jie Zi" [Analytical Dictionary of Characters] by the Later Han scholar Xu Shen, written in the 1st century AD, where he says: "Yi is the surrounding board game." Xu also tells us here, by the way, that bo is a board game using six sticks as dice, and twelve men.
As these and other texts imply, weiqi had become the most familiar term in Han times and yi had to be explained to readers of those times. One obvious reason was the shift in the geographical focus of power and thus the ascendancy of another dialect. There is, however, also a theory that yi may have referred to go on 17x17 boards and weiqi to the 19x19 version, the two versions co-existing rather than one evolving from the other (Yasunaga 1977). The survival of Tibetan go (17x17) is seen as evidence for this.
The situation is very confusing. The 17x17 board discovered at Wangdu and referred to above dates from the Later Han, and there are references to 17x17 boards. The most celebrated is by Handan Chun of the following Wei period (220-265) in the "Yi Jing" [Manual of Accomplishments]: "The go board has 17 lines along its length and breadth, making 289 points in all. The black and white stones each number 150." Against this, however, the earliest surviving game record appears to be the game, in "Wang You Qing Le Ji", between the Wu prince Sun Ce (175-200) and his general Lü Fan. It is on a 19x19 board (see Figure 2 [available from ftp://ftp-igs.joyjoy.net/Go/games/ancient.sgf.Z in Smart-Go format]). Until the discovery of the Wangdu board and Tibetan go, it was long assumed by modern players that the Sun-Lü game was a forgery (or Handan Chun was wrong). However, the whole question of its authenticity has been reconsidered recently in Li 1980b. He establishes that the conditions for it to have been true did probably exist, that is 19x19 boards were being used. He suggests too that this board, whether new or evolved, contributed to the upsurge in popularity of go.
There is yet another layer of complication, however, in that the boards in the Shosoin (of a design known also in ancient Korea and China) have 19x19 lines but only 300 stones and no space on the edge, making it difficult to play stones on the edge line (Masukawa 1987:4). It has been suggested therefore that only 17x17 lines were actually used. This theory has been undercut by the discovery of the Torfan picture which shows a 17x17 board with no edge space but stones on the edge line! To confuse things even more, the date of this picture is rather late (c. 750) if it is assumed that 19x19 boards supplanted 17x17 ones (though Tibetan go suggests not entirely), but a board of the same full-out style, only with 19x19 lines, has been excavated from Anyang in Henan and is dated 557-618 (now in Henan Province Museum). Resolving this confusion will surely be the most profitable area for future research.
Another feature of go in Han times is the emergence of references to go strategy. The earliest is in the "Xin Lun" [New Treatise] by Huan Tan (43 BC-28 AD):
"When starting, the best strategy is to spread the pieces far apart and stretch them out, to encircle and attack the opponent, and thus win by having the most points vacant. The next best strategy emphasises cutting off the enemy to seek advantage. In that case the outcome is uncertain and calculation is necessary to decide the issue. The worst strategy is to defend the borders and corners, hastily building eyes so as to protect oneself in a small area."
As any good go player will verify, this implies a sophisticated knowledge of the game. This piece is also valuable in confirming (as the games in "Wang You Qing Le Ji" also show) that the final count-up was done as it is in Japan today, counting only vacant points (territory). The modern Chinese method is to count both stones and territory. For a discussion of the date of the changeover (Yuan-Ming era?), see Yang L. 1960.
Even better known from this period, and in some ways more interesting because it introduces us for the first time to technical terms, is a long poem by Ma Rong (?-166 AD). The first half of his "Weiqi Fu" [Go Rhapsody] tells us:
This again shows a deep insight into go as a game of skill, at a time when other cultures were barely above the level of games of chance. What is more, since then go has had almost 2,000 years to flourish further. In that time it has been woven into the fabric of Asia's history at every level, enjoyed by emperors, immortals, scholars and common men. It is sad that its history is so little known in the west.
Boorman 1969 : Scott A. Boorman, "The Protracted Game: a Wei-ch'i Interpretation of Maoist Revolutionary Strategy" (Oxford University Press, Oxford, 1969)
Cheng 1988 : Cheng Xiaoliu, "Gulao de Zang Qi" [Ancient Tibetan go], Zhongguo Weiqi Nianjian 1987, pp. 402-413 (Shu Rong Qiyi Chubanshe, Chengdu 1988)
Du 1987 : Du Zhongde, ed., "Zhongguo Weiqi Shihua" [Historical tales of go in China] (Renmin Tiyu Chubanshe, Beijing, 1987)
Eberhard 1942 : W. Eberhard, "Lokalkulturen im Alten China" [Local cultures in ancient China], Vol. I, pp. 100-116 (E.J. Brill, Leiden, 1942)
1990 : John Fairbairn, "Go
on the Roof of the World",
Himly 1896 : Karl Himly, "Die Abteilung der Spiele im `Spiegel der Mandschu-Sprache'" [The section on games in the 'Encyclopaedia of the Manchu language'], T'oung Pao, Series II, Vol. 7, pp. 135-146 (E. J. Brill, Leiden, 1896)
Karlgren 1951 : Bernhard Karlgren, "Excursions in Chinese Grammar", Bulletin of the Museum of Far Eastern Antiquities, No. 23, pp. 107-133 (Stockholm, 1951)
1991 : Koizumi Shingo, "Chugoku Kodai
no Yugi Ryupo ni tsuite" [On the game liubo in ancient China],
Kotaka 1943 : Kotaka Yoshisaburo, "Nihon no Yugi" [Games of Japan] (Hata Shoten, Tokyo, 1943)
Lau 1965 : D. C. Lau, "Some Notes on the Sun-tzu", Bulletin of the School of Oriental and African Studies Vol. 28, pp. 317-335 (London, 1965)
1980a : Li Songfu, "Han-Wei de Weiqi" [Go in the
Han and Wei
1980b : Li Songfu, "Sun-Lü
Yipu de Zhenwei" [Is the Sun-Lü
1985 : Liu Shancheng, ed. "Zhongguo Weiqi" [Go in China],
Masukawa 1983 : Masukawa Koichi, "Tobaku III" [Gambling, Vol. III] (Hosei Daigaku Shuppankyoku, Tokyo, 1983)
Masukawa 1987 : Masukawa Koichi, "Go" [Go] (Hosei Daigaku Shuppankyoku, Tokyo, 1987)
Murray 1952 : H.J.R. Murray, "A History of Board-Games other than Chess" (Clarendon Press, Oxford, 1952)
Needham 1962 : Joseph Needham, "Science and Civilisation in China", Vol. 4 Part I, pp. 314-334 (Cambridge University Press, 1962)
Ogawa 1932 and 1933 : Ogawa Takuji, "Shina ni okeru Iki no Kigen to Hattatsu" [Origin and development of go in China], Shinagaku, Vol. VI, No. III (July, 1932) pp. 57-76, and Vol. VII, No. I (May 1933) pp. 79-90 (Kobundo Shobo, Kyoto)
Potter 1985-86 : Donald L. Potter, "Go in the Classics (ii): the Tso-chuan", Go World, No. 42, Winter 1985-86, pp. 19-21 (Ishi Press, Tokyo)
Shen [undated] : Shen Zicheng, "Weiqi" [Go] (Guoguang Shuju, Hong Kong, undated)
Sawyer 1993 : Ralph D. Sawyer, "The Seven Military Classics of Ancient China", (Westview Press, Oxford, 1993)
Shirakawa 1993 : Shirakawa Masayoshi, "Igo no Genryu wo Tazunete" [Seeking the origins of go], Igo Kurabu, No. 10 (October 1993), 136-138 (Nihon Kiin, Tokyo)
Watanabe H. 1983 : Watanabe Hideo, "Chugoku Kokifu Sanpo" [Browsing through ancient Chinese go books] (Shinjusha, Tokyo, 1983)
Watanabe T. 1982 : Watanabe Takeshi, "Chugoku Kodai no Banjo Yugi" [Ancient Chinese board games], Gekkan Hyakka, Part 241 (Heibonsha, Tokyo, Nov., 1982)
Watanabe Y. 1977 : Watanabe Yoshimichi, "Kodai Igo no Sekai" [The ancient world of go] (San'ichi Shobo, Tokyo, 1977)
Yang L. 1960 : Yang Liansheng, "Chugoku Iki Tsukurikata Hansen Shoko" [Some thoughts on changes in final counting in Chinese go], translated into Japanese, with additional note, by Go Seigen, Kido, Vol. 36, pp. 54-56 (Nihon Kiin, Tokyo, Oct., 1960)
Yang Y. 1946 : Yang Yinshen, "Zhongguo Youyi Yanju" [Researches into Chinese pastimes] (Shijie Shuju, Shanghai, 1946) Yasunaga 1977 : Yasunaga Hajime, "Chugoku no Go" [Go in China] (Jiji Tsushin-sha, Tokyo, 1977)
|
<urn:uuid:3f5acbb6-56d5-41dc-8d39-37379d409b91>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.pandanet.co.jp/English/essay/goancientchina.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783393442.26/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154953-00065-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.954267
| 5,976
| 2.71875
| 3
|
Recently, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) ruled that gender identity discrimination is prohibited under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
To put it simply, Title VII makes it illegal for employers to discriminate against employees based on religion, race, color, sex, or national origin. The EEOC concluded that discrimination against trans individuals falls under sex discrimination, and is therefore prohibited. This is good news for transgender people of color, especially. Here’s why.
What This Means for Trans People of Color
In a study, the National Center for Transgender Equality and the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force found that trans people are highly vulnerable to employment discrimination. The study revealed that “People of color in general fare worse than white participants across the board, with African American transgender respondents faring far worse than all others in most areas examined.” Trans people reported double the average rate of unemployment, and trans people of color reported four times the average rate. Participants also reported high rates of harassment at work, with 15% of Black participants reporting that they had been physically assaulted at work.
Clearly, the EEOC’s decision is of singular importance, providing transgender people of all backgrounds the option of presenting their claims of discrimination to the EEOC. But as transgender people of color are a particularly vulnerable population when it comes to workplace discrimination, there’s reason for communities of color to celebrate.
ENDA and GENDA Provide State-Level Protections
Incidentally, some worry that the decision could be overturned in the Supreme Court, making the push for more legislation like the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) and the Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act (GENDA), both which provide state-wide level protections based from workplace discrimination based on gender expression and identity, even more crucial to the LGBT community.
Representative Barney Frank has said, “I still want to see a transgender-inclusive ENDA because [the EEOC ruling] could be overturned in court. That’ll be challenged, and they could take it back. On the other hand, it does mean, for now, transgender workers are more protected than gay, lesbian and bisexual workers. But we still need the bill.”
ENDA, a federal bill that would prohibit employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity, was last discussed in Congress in 2009 and has not been discussed since. GENDA is a similar New York bill that would prohibit discrimination against transgender and gender non-conforming people in many areas, including housing and employment. GENDA has failed to pass four times, but many are working to get GENDA passed this year. So far, the bill has passed in the Assembly, but it may not pass in the Senate.
Empire State Pride Agenda, a New York LGBT rights organization, is one group currently working to get GENDA passed. It is responsible for the TRANScribe Project, a different approach to gaining support for trans rights. This project allows trans people to share their stories for the purposes of education and activism. The Pride Agenda encourages trans individuals, as well as friends, family, and allies, to contribute their stories in the hopes of effecting change.
From Stories to Policy: The Power of LGBT People of Color Media
Here, it is of great importance that trans and gender non-conforming women of color are able to share their stories as their voices often go unheard, leading to policy that does not take their experiences into account. Hence, legal advocacy organizations would do well to engage LGBT POC media organizations such as Queer Women of Color Media Arts Project (QWOCMAP), Queer Women of Color Media Wire (QWOC Wire), Elixher, and others, in the amplification of these stories. Incidentally, organizations like the Gay and Lesbian Advocates Against Media Defamation (GLAAD) and Massachussetts Transgender Political Coalition (MTPC) who have recently partnered on media advocacy campaigns featuring strong voices from trans women like Janet Mock and Laverne Cox could lend their influence to proponents of LGBT-friendly legislation that’s intersectional in its protections.
For instance, GENDA is of particular importance for trans people of color because it goes beyond employment discrimination to housing discrimination. Early this year, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced guidelines that prohibit discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation in federally funding housing. Trans people, however, and especially trans people of color, remain vulnerable to housing discrimination from the private sector. In response to the National Transgender Discrimination Survey, 41% of Black participants reported having experienced homelessness. 38% reported having been denied housing, and 31% were evicted because of their gender identity. GENDA would help to correct these wrongs done to trans people of people.
ENDA passed on the state level, in 2009 in Massachusetts. On the national level, it has the support of President Obama, but without bipartisan support of the bill is unlikely to pass. Republican National Committee Chair Reince Priebus did say in an interview with NBC that he supports anti-discrimination measures for gay and lesbian workers. However, the bill faces strong opposition, with campaigns such as Fight ENDA arguing that the legislation would infringe on religious freedom.
The Road Ahead: Media and Legal Advocacy
With the recent ruling of the EEOC, the prospects of GENDA and ENDA may be more hopeful. The ruling signals a step forward in trans rights, and it holds promise for legislation protecting LGB people from employment discrimination. It also gives hope that more injustices against trans people of color will be rectified. What remains to be seen are closer collaborations between legal and media advocacy efforts to ensure that the right voices continue to inform the direction of progress.
|
<urn:uuid:cce63f2f-5f55-4f20-a042-3ca887bb2454>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.qwoc.org/2012/05/from-youtube-to-policy-the-role-of-media-in-legal-advocacy-for-lgbt-people-of-color/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397744.64/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00058-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.956125
| 1,175
| 2.796875
| 3
|
Guest blog by Louise Ellman, MP for Liverpool Riverside, who looks ahead to Slavery Remembrance Day which she believes fuses the past and the present. Mrs Ellman has attended every single Slavery Remembrance Day since 1999.
“Commemorating Slavery Remembrance Day in Liverpool is very special. It is a grim reminder of the horrors of the transatlantic slave trade and an important part of the vital task of educating present and future generations about the enormity of this assault on human dignity and freedom. The consequences of the devastation it wrought on long-established African communities are still felt today.
The Libation ceremony, with its recollections and incantations, brings a powerful fusion of past and present. The day is also about celebrating the role of individual slaves like Toussaint L’Ouverture who won freedom for St Domingue (now Haiti).
Liverpool’s role is significant. The city benefited from slavery through its merchants and ship owners. Yet it was also part of the opposition to slavery through the work of, eg, William Rathbone IV who founded the Liverpool Committee for the abolition of the slave trade and worked with William Wilberforce.
Liverpool has played a pivotal role in slavery remembrance. The late Sir Richard Foster, then Director of National Museums Liverpool, organised Liverpool’s first Slavery Remembrance ceremony on 22nd August 1999.
More recently, Dr David Fleming (its current Director), inaugurated the ground-breaking International Slavery Museum, another first for Liverpool. I was privileged to be present at both events.
Slavery remembrance is not just about the past. It must reinforce our determination to abolish contemporary slavery, including human trafficking, oppose racism and celebrate diversity and multiracialism.
This cannot be achieved on one day a year but International Slavery Remembrance Day is an important start.”
(Comments are closed for this post.)
|
<urn:uuid:d473f376-22c6-4ae0-9975-ea6514834739>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://blog.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/2013/08/louise-ellman-mp-slavery-remembrance-day-fuses-past-and-present/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397111.67/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00093-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.939095
| 395
| 2.71875
| 3
|
Thanks for your question. There is no debating that sports drinks are a booming business, thanks
to the power of advertising. They certainly are popular, but are they necessary for children?
First of all, what is in a sports drink? They basically are expensive diluted soft drinks. They do
contain significant carbohydrates (about 60 calories per cup), but little sodium or potassium, and
generally have little other nutritional value.
Sports drinks do have a place, however, but only when participating in a high-intensity
endurance event that lasts longer than 90 minutes, like a marathon or triathlon. For most
children, therefore, a sports drink is really not necessary, especially as a fluid replacement at
There are three major drawbacks to the continual use of sports drinks like you describe in your
question. The first is obesity since these drinks are rich in carbohydrates (that is why they taste
so good). The second is drinking too many sports drinks can erode the teeth due to the acidity -
not the sugar. And third, sports drinks are more expensive than the best fluid replacement of
them all - water.
Yes, plain cool water is the fluid of choice when exercise does not last longer than 60 to 90
minutes. And that includes most situations, even a tough practice session, a hard-fought football
game, or a track meet. You don't need an energy source in the fluid you drink to rehydrate.
Sports drinks should be reserved for those individuals who exercise continuously for more than
90 minutes or have heavy sweat losses."
|
<urn:uuid:e1469cf6-ddf8-4fa8-9e1e-93287e4a38c5>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.kidsgrowth.com/resources/advicedetail.cfm?id=2394
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783395679.92/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154955-00026-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.950374
| 323
| 2.515625
| 3
|
- Analog Computers : The analog computer is almost an extinct type of computer these days. It is different from a digital computer in respect that it can perform numerous mathematical operations simultaneously. It is also unique in terms of operation as it utilizes continuous variables for the purpose of mathematical computation. It utilizes mechanical, hydraulic, or electrical energy or operation.
- Hybrid computers : These types of computers are, as the name suggests, a combination of both Analog and Digital computers.
Apart from this, computers are also categorized on the basis of physical structures and the purpose of their use. Based on Capacity, speed and reliability they can be divided into three categories of computers :
- The Mainframe Computer : These are computers used by large organizations like meteorological surveys and statistical institutes for performing bulk mathematical computations. They are core computers which are used for desktop functions of over one hundred people simultaneously.
- The Microcomputer : These are the most frequently used computers better known by the name of "Personal computers". This is the type of computer meant for public use. Other than Desktop Computer the choice ranges as follows :
- Personal Digital Computer
- Tablet PC
- Work Stations
- Hand Held Computer
- The Mini computer : Mini computers like the mainframe computers are used by business organization. The difference being that it can support the simultaneous working of up to 100 users and is usually maintained in business organizations for the maintenance of accounts and finances.
Today life without computers is inconceivable. Usage of different types of computers has made life both smooth and fast paced.
Analog Computers :
Analog Computers and Digital computers are the two kinds of computers, the combination of which is responsible for the invention of the modern Hybrid computers.
The analog systems carry out arithmetic and logical operations by manipulating and processing data which you input such as the weight, temperature, voltage, power density, etc. But unlike the digital computer that changes all inputs to binary digits of "1" and "0", the analog computer does not change inputted data to any such sign language.
The analog computer has become obsolete type of computer these days. It is different from a digital computer as it can perform numerous mathematical operations simultaneously. The digital computers, however could not operate the more complex operations. The Analog System is also unique in terms of operation as it utilizes continuous variables for the purpose of mathematical computation. It utilizes mechanical, hydraulic, or electrical energy or operation.
Mathematical Principles Applied For The Data Processing In Analog Computers :
- Multiplication and Division
The analog computer which is a complex machine is an integration of various mechanical parts which has pipes, valves, levers, gears and several key parts which can be named as follows :
- Fixed function generators
- Operational amplifiers
Advantages and Disadvantages of Analog Computers :
The advantage of an analog computer is that it can simultaneously find solutions to several mathematical problems and that too while being precise unlike the digital computer. But it is not free of drawbacks. Unlike the digital computer it lacks speed of calculation. There are other functional problems which mar the efficiency of analog systems. Of these, the problems of non-linearities, temperature co-efficient, parasitic effects and noise floor are the main problems so to say.
Digital Computers :
Digital Computers are that kind of computing machines which work on the principle of binary mathematics. Digital computing machines when clubbed with Analog computers produce Hybrid computers. The digital systems work on the principle of binary mathematics. In binary mathematics all calculations are represented through "0" and "1".
You have often heard about the word "Byte", "Mega Byte", "Kilo Byte". But what is a Byte? A single Byte is a group of 8 numbers or bits represented through a code series comprising of "0" and "1" .The combination of the digital signal can solve a number of mathematical operations. It is interesting to note that the fundamentals of mathematics applied are addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. But the chief problem is that though it can solve mathematical problems at a tremendous speed, it cannot perform bulk operations simultaneously. For this purpose, digital systems by themselves cannot give very precise results. Hence, for greater efficiency, the Digital systems do not find much application.
Data Processing In Digital Computers :
Digital computers function with the help of logic circuits. A reliable oscillator helps in the proper synchronization of various logic circuits that are responsible for processing data in the digital computers. In better quality computers, the oscillation rate might even be a billion cycles per second. Operating at such high speed, it can process more than billions of logic and arithmetic problems.
Mainframe Computer :
Mainframes are computers that are the most bulky types and with the advancement of technology, they have almost become extinct. Computers are of three types - Mainframe computers, Minicomputers and Microcomputers. Mainframe computer systems can be called the predecessor of servers because they could actually support multi users though as efficiently as the servers. Usually, a main frame would occupy an entire room and could cost over million dollars.
Used for the purpose of research, engineering works, meteorological calculations, graphics and the likes, mainframes today constitutes Unix, Linux, and IBM's z/OS, OS/390, MVS, VM, and VSE. Mainframe systems were manufactured extensively throughout the 1950s and were marketed by IBM, Control Data, General Electric, NCR, UNIVAC, Honeywell, RC, and Burroughs.
The three important Features ofmainframe Computers :
- Mainframes provide for maximum I/O connectivity as they accommodate huge disc farms.
- Mainframes excel in providing maximum I/O band width. Interestingly in spite of all the connected drives connected to the mainframe system, no data blocking ever happens to mar its efficiency.
- Mainframe systems also provide for very good single thread operations.
The Mini computers are a less bulky version of the mainframe computers. Minicomputers are used by business organization. The difference being that it can support the simultaneous working of up to 100 users and is usually maintained in business organizations for the maintenance ofaccounts and finances. Besides,there are personal computers or microcomputers. The micro computers include Desktop PC s, Laptops, Handheld computers, Tablet PC s, workstations, palmtops, etc. These are the most frequently used computers.
Minicomputers, what exactly are they? If supercomputers and mainframes are considered to be the best in terms of mathematical operations then minicomputer systems succeed them. Previously,minicomputers were considered to be superior to personal systems. But these days, advancement intechnology has made minicomputers almost obsolete because the PCs today are highly advanced.
The Minicomputers were first built in in 1960s and they immediately became a huge success as 40,000 of the minicomputer systems were immediately sold of making the computers hugely available to the general public. With such a successful market possibility many companies stepped in to venture in the minicomputer market. The most successful among these two hundred companies was DEC that launched the minicomputer models PDP-11 and VAX 11/780.
Some significant aspects and historical facts about the mini computer system has been summarized as follows :
- They are much smaller in size than the mainframe computer systems. As such they do not occupy an entire room but usually occupy space similar in size to that of a standard refrigerator.
- They are much less expensive than the mainframes.
- Their invention was possible because of the invention of core memory technologies and transistors.
- Minicomputers can can give parallel access to up to 100 users. Hence they were used in places such as business organizations for maintaining billings and finances.
- Some of the very first companies to manufacture the minicomputer systems were Hewlett Packard, DEC and Data General.
A few models of minicomputers which have been a marked success over the years are :
- DEC VAX series and PDP series
- Hewlett Packard HP3000 series
- Prime Computers, Prime 50 Series
- Norsk Data, Nord-1, Nord-10, Nord-100
- IBM Midrange Computers
- Control Data Corporation's CDC 160A, CDC-1700
- Data General Nova
- Honeywell-Bull Level 6/DPS Level6/DPS 6000 series
Minicomputershave eventually evolved in to microcomputers. With the launch of microcomputers, thepublic have had a greater access to the advantage of incorporating computers in the daily stride of their lives.
Supercomputers are one of the many types of modern computing machines which are capable of giving very speedy calculations. It is because of their high speed processing ability that Supercomputer systems are used in such works as animation graphics, weather forecasting, nuclear research work, petroleum research works, crypt analysis, molecular modeling and the likes. You must be wondering then what is the difference between a supercomputer and a mainframe computer system? While Mainframe machines are primarily used for a number of purposes, supercomputers are so designed to serve a singular purpose.
A brief time line ofthe development of supercomputers has been given as follows :
- 1960s : Seymour Cray of Control Data Corporation (CDC) launches the Supercomputer systems.
- 1970s : Cray Research isfounded by Seymour Cray after he leaves Control Data Corporation (CDC). Most supercomputers were meant for running vector processor.
- 1985-1990 : Cray's model of supercomputer takes over the market.
- Today, supercomputers are designed by such companies as HP, IBM and of course, Cray Inc. Supercomputer systems are now becoming almost the same as laptop computers and desktop systems.
Before the 1970s, supercomputers were mostly run on scalar process principle. But in order to improve its efficiency a number of new technologies were developed such as :
- Liquid Cooling
- Striped Disks (RAID)
- Parallel File systems
- Non-uniform memory access (NUMA)
- Vector Processing
When the hardwares of the supercomputers are prepared to serve a special mathematical operation, they are called Special Supercomputers. Currently there are many such types of supercomputers as the GRAPE for molecular dynamics and astrophysics, Deep Crack for cracking DES cipher, Deep Blue for playing chess, etc.
Last Updated : May 18, 2016
|
<urn:uuid:e1989dda-5a82-47f5-8708-2b45e23cab06>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.mapsofworld.com/referrals/computers/types-of-computers/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783394937.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154954-00015-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.942114
| 2,167
| 3.796875
| 4
|
Get started in collecting coins.
Coins were created to help stabilize economies by minting metals. Coins are usually distributed by governments for the purpose of having something with a set value. But as time passes some coins has become collectable.
Collectable coins are those that are rare. Some are rare because of a flaw in the minting process, there was a limited amount made at a minting facility.
From 1932-1964 quarters were made out of silver. Now the price of silver inside that quarter is worth a lot more than a quarter. You can either put it in a coke machine or exchange it for possibly a few dollars. But if you were to find a 1932 quarter minted in Denver, you can walk away for much much more.
|
<urn:uuid:6abefec6-454f-4e8f-80d6-a7c585e18c4e>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.texarkanacoins.com/coins/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783396887.54/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154956-00058-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.985266
| 154
| 2.859375
| 3
|
We define the space of sound cues just as we defined the speech space. Things are a little more complicated in this case, because it is not so clear what all the dimensions are, or even whether the number of dimensions is finite. If by non-speech audio we mean any audible sound different from intelligible speech, the space is indeed very large. In order to use non-speech audio effectively, we need to restrict the space. Thus, in the following, the sound space is a suitably restricted subspace of the entire space of non-speech audio.
The following enumerates a few of the dimensions we could use in constructing the non-speech component. Depending on the type of hardware available, we will have fewer or more dimensions.
We thus think of a point in this restricted subspace of non-speech audio as a distinct sound. Each channel of audio output is a point in an instance of such a subspace. Multiple channels of sound are thus modeled as a direct sum of these subspaces.
In the following, the sound space and the associated primitives for working in this space are defined assuming no restrictions on the underlying hardware. However, AsTeR restricts itself to the simpler setting provided by SPARC audio.
|
<urn:uuid:a9e58fe6-65bd-4933-aeae-63d0b5b0aeb4>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.cs.cornell.edu/Info/People/raman/phd-thesis/html/node46.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783395621.98/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154955-00024-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.926608
| 252
| 3.046875
| 3
|
The comfortable front-end side of modern operation systems is taken for granted by most users. But it was not always so cloudless, the developers underwent turbulent path of improving and modernizing.
Yes, today we’ll talk about graphical user interface (GUI) and its evolution. GUI is a type of user interface that allows users to interact with computers and hand-held devices preferring to use images rather than text.
There are a lot of windowing systems from different vendors, nevertheless their base elements are quite similar: window, icon, menu, pointing device (also abbreviated as WIMP). In the name of a user’s comfort GUI exploits the skeuomorphism idea of desktop metaphor: the computer monitor is showcased as the user’s desktop, where objects such as documents and folders of documents can be placed; a document can be opened into a window, which represents a paper copy of the document placed on the desktop. The “pointing device” for almost all of the GUI operation systems means a mouse, however the keyboard can also participate in controlling.
GUI replaced such type of interactive user interfaces for computers as command-line interface (CLI), which is totally text-oriented: you need to type special commands in order to issue some changes on the computer. But the precursors of the graphical interface appeared long before CLI went out of fashion. So, let’s start to check the stages of the GUI path through the history.
The first thing we can nearly call the graphical user interface forerunner is Sketchpad, a revolutionary computer program developed by Ivan Sutherland in 1963. The author was the first computer scientist who brought the concept of multi-panel windowing system and real-time graphic display into his program.
However, if we take into consideration more GUI-like early elaborations, the oN-Line System goes to the fore. The system was created by Doug Engelbart’s team within the confines of Augmentation of Human Intellect project at the Augmentation Research Center at SRI International. The NLS combined a mouse-driven cursor and multiple windows used to work on hypertext.
The oN-Line System can evoke even more interest, if knowing it resulted into the first GUI, developed by Xerox PARC with the help of people from SRI in 1973. So now we should move to the next paragraph.
Nothing can compare to infographics when we need to present large amount of complicated information in simple digestible manner. From ancient times people communicated with the help of graphic symbols. Present technologies made a huge leap since then, but pictures still rock! Visualizing bulky content, infographics make it easier to explain our viewpoints, concepts and ideas to the audience. They save us a lot of time during learning as well. The secret lies in the process of how our brain perceives and processes information. Illustrative images immediately grab our attention as they stand out against the plain text, that’s why such efficient mixture lets us study the content more efficiently and keep it in our mind longer. We can call infographics a good alternative to traditional methods of information rendering.
The points of our today’s interest are marketing infographics. It’s an undeniable fact that apt marketing strategy is able to place your website on top of the rating list and vice versa. Marketing issues may seem confusing and ambiguous, which makes them a perfect subject for infographics. Surely, not each and every infographic is able to enrich your skills. But the ones below are really worth viewing as they combine professional outstanding design with in-depth theme research. So, here they are – the best marketing infographics of 2012. We are sure that they will clarify a lot of embarrassing marketing points for you.
* * *
* * *
Its Majesty Internet may open really estimable pearls (that’s why I compassionate people of the pre-internet era). The most interesting thing is those information gems are so different that representatives of diverse strata have a chance to find something nutty exactly for themselves.
So, today I’d like to present a pearl that, to my opinion, would inspire web-design and other artistic people. Say hello to Mayeul Akpovi and his notable works. Mayeul was born in Benin, now he lives in Besançon, France.
Mr. Akrovi is a Motion Time-lapse Photographer, a short Filmmaker and a Corporate video producer. Not sure what a Timelapse is? Well, I wasn’t as well, but Mayeul prudently explained the meaning of the term on his website: “My work is focused on the capture of time and space as accelerated video while adding an artistic and sometimes cinematography touch. This process is called «Time-lapse»”.
Anyway, it’s just a cold definition: to realize the whole picture of this type of art you should check Mayeul’s compositions, which are concentrated on urban life.
Today the popularity of communicating product value through animated videos has made businesses realize their potential in convincing their audience. Not only do they convince a potential customer, but also help in launching a product, giving a demonstration and building a brand.
Image Source: Filmstrip, 3D by Shutterstock
Animated videos also help businesses by giving them a strong online visibility. Being of different kinds they are able to take care of a business’ different communication requirements. Let’s see the kinds of animation that a business can take advantage of:
1. 2D animation: This animation technique brings out the illusion of movement of drawings or objects to its viewers. Such illusion is achieved with the help of animation software, where images are sequenced in progression and are then shown at a rapid movement.
2. 3D animation: This makes use of computer generated images to give a three dimensional view to its viewers. It involves creation of 3D modeling of objects and their surroundings which are then given a 3D effect. They succeed in creating an atmosphere of virtual reality in front of their audience. Read More
After checking out the post about top WordPress events in winter 2013 I decided to complement the topic and to cover the winter events of another platform – this time Joomla fans should be satisfied.
The name Joomla is phonetically identical to the word “Jumla”, which is translated from Swahili language as “altogether”. So it’s not surprising Joomla team makes the organizing of the different type events a regular practice – as for me, the meaning undoubtedly intimates. Above that, such occasions bring a great chance to rest from working routine; however, the rest is not going far away from job moments: the visitors get acquainted better with the IT community, share their ideas with each other.
Interested? No problem, let me present you some top Joomla events in winter 2013 that will take place in different parts of the world.
* * *
Joomla! Day Melbourne 2013
Date: Thu. 17 Jan, 2013 8:00 am – Tue. 22 Jan, 2013 8:00 am (Fri. 18 Jan, 2013 1:00 am – Wed. 23 Jan, 2013 1:00 am EST)
Duration: 5 Days
Location: Swinburne University, Burwood Rd, Hawthorn, Vic, Australia
Website URL: http://melbourne.joomladay.org.au
Image Source: Melbourne Skyline Looking by Shutterstock
I believe this Australian conference will be the most notable Joomla event this season. In any case it will be the most long-lasting one – the organizers announced the conference will take 5 days.
Do you feel the spirit of Christmas hovering in the transparent frosty air? Santa Claus is whipping up his reindeer cause he is very busy tonight. Millions of kids are waiting for their Christmas presents. Their stockings are hanging over the fireplace; they should be filled with sweets and presents till morning. Green Christmas trees, symbolizing the life, are standing in each house. Their rich ornamentation creates a special atmosphere of holiday. Glowing garlands are hanging everywhere; their light is so warm and welcoming that even night darkness backs away. Carols are heard on every step. They fill our souls with happiness and reverence before the most heartwarming holiday of the year. We all celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ!
Christmas is a wonderful time to be with the family, exchange presents, go to the church and just have fun! Holiday feast is also an important part of celebration. Stuffed turkey or goose, meat, gravy, potatoes, vegetables, and certainly Christmas pudding, mince pies and fruit cake will delight our friends and relatives at the holiday table. You can hardly find a single person not spanned with the Christmas mood, it seems as if the whole world with all its inhabitants has become better at once. It’s time to join the general revelry!
We wish you a Merry Christmas! Believe in wonders and maybe the one will happen to you tonight!
Christmas is a great time for multiple purchases and considerable savings. Get to know how you can claim your discount on Web templates and eCommerce templates buying them in a bulk from TemplateMonster. Hurry up! The promo is valid until December 31, 2012. All you need to do is just activate the promo clicking the relevant button on a special page and pick out several templates you like. Your discount may reach up to 40%! Can you miss that?
We have already got used to the diversity of gadgets flooding the handheld devices market. jQuery Mobile is a touch-optimized software framework developed by jQuery project team compatible with the majority of popular smartphones and tablets. It also fits mobile app frameworks and platforms like PhoneGap, Worklight and others as well as main desktop browsers, including iOS, Android, Blackberry, WebOS, Symbian, Windows Phone 7, etc. If jQuery syntax is you strong point, you won’t need any extensive research to work with jQuery Mobile, built on the bases of jQuery core. The framework is lightweight which positively affects the operation speed. The same underlying codebase automatically scales to any screen. Due to the HTML5-driven configuration you can start developing web pages with minimal script application. UI widgets are touch-friendly and platform-agnostic. Theming framework lets you create custom themes. To cut a long story short, jQuery Mobile gives you greater possibilities and more control over the application building process.
To make your web development experience more thrilling and efficient, we offer a collection of free awesome jQuery Mobile tutorials to study. We hope they will spur your creativity and help you find simpler ways of doing complicated things.
* * *
* * *
Regular newsletter sending is an inevitable part of marketing strategy for many companies. The method is inexpensive; e-mails immediately get to the addressee and may bring quick results, provided that all crucial points were met. Actually, newsletter design complies with general web design principles and is created using similar tools and technologies; however, the difference surely exists.
Testing a newsletter before sending is highly important; otherwise your efforts may turn to be a waste of time. Smart merchants test their newsletters in two stages, firstly for its marketing efficiency and then its technical side. There is plenty of testing software, you can install on your computer or use online, still main steps stay the same, so let’s highlight them one-by-one.
First of all, make sure that all essential elements are present in your newsletter design. Here follows their short list:
1. Read your subject line, it should be informative, short and recognizable otherwise the customer may simply ignore your e-mail.
2. Your newsletter should look attractive and encouraging for further reading even in minimal preview size.
3. Some e-mail clients like Outlook, Lotus Notes, and Hotmail don’t display images by default, so check your design without images, is it still worth opening? As a kind of alternative, you may include a link leading to the externally-hosted html version of the email. This way, subscriber will have the possibility to view your content despite the method of viewing and broken elements.
4. Stick to relatively narrow newsletter designs; remember that customers often view their e-mails in partial screen mode.
5. Your e-mails should contain permission reminder, people respond marketing information better when they know that they have subscribed to it themselves.
6. When the addressee knows and trusts the sender, he/she is more likely to open the e-mail. So sender’s details should be clearly stated.
7. Unsubscribe link is also a must-have for commercial e-mails as it saves your efforts and recipient’s nerves. If the person is not interested in your propositions, he/she will throw your e-mail into the bin anyway.
It’s difficult to deny the fact that our life is constant learning. Technologies go ahead with the velocity of light and some professions require constant skills refreshment to be in demand expert. This especially regards programming related specialties, as the field is aimed to simplify the life of community working with computers, which members are not necessarily office workers, cause we all know that almost all industrial processes are controlled by machine intelligence now-a-days.
Frankly speaking, it’s rather difficult for adult working person, having his/her family responsibilities, to enter college or university and attend classes on regular bases to get some advanced training. Major constraining factors are time and money. Even if your passion for learning is able to overcome them, there is one more important issue. We often sacrifice our dream educational institution for the one located in our city, within the convenient reach.
Looking back to everything stated above, online courses seem much more attractive, especially when they are free. Their benefits are obvious, but surely the option works well only for purposeful, persistent students, knowing exactly what result they want to reach, with rigid self-discipline and burning desire. So, if you recognize yourself in this portrait, let’s consider some main benefits of online studying.
1. First of all you are not limited with the choice of educational institution and can choose among the leading world universities.
2. Such courses are frequently absolutely free, so you get the desired advanced knowledge saving your budget.
3. You can watch the lectures, take quizzes and cope with assignments according to your own schedule, when you have free time.
4. You study together with a group of peers having similar goals and yearnings and can discuss complicated matters, help and encourage each other.
5. If you pass all assignments successfully you can even get a certificate confirming the fact.
This entry is not aimed to convince all skeptics that online education can replace the regular one. It is impossible and even dangerous to study some sciences online, as they are connected with huge risk for human life, like medicine, for instance. Here we speak only about rather short-term courses related to programming, which can really give satisfactory results. Their usability is very high, which is extremely important for busy people, having an urgent need or just a desire to raise the level of their skills.
Below we offer you a list of free online courses highlighting various aspects of programming, which will surely teach you something new. Be up-to-date, keep your mind flexible, and this will directly affect your salary.
* * *
* * *
|
<urn:uuid:ad409eb6-ad88-48de-81ff-c9b32a30d41a>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.designfloat.com/blog/page/38/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397797.77/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00135-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.938484
| 3,197
| 3.265625
| 3
|
It all began in about 350 BC (Iron Age) when tribes wandered across Europe looking for tin. Eventually they found an abundance of tin in Cornwall and settled there and as a result left a legacy in the form of the Celtic Cornish language. The next race to emerge in Europe was the Romans, but they had little to do with the south-western extremity. Romans occasionally came for tin but they could obtain it easier in Spain.
Next came Saints from Wales and Ireland bringing Christianity. Settlements formed at places of worship which grew into communities known as Churchtowns. These soon grew into Parishes, made up of towns. If you are interested I have a copy of a map showing all the Parishes, (1000 x 900 pixels, 37K) that existed. Cornwall continued to remain Celtic and the Chieftains (notably Arthur) fought the incoming Saxons valiantly, but were eventually conquered in 838. From 1066, the Normans brought changes. William the Conqueror gave faithful Barons lands and manors and some still survive. Later Edward III's son, the black prince, was created the first Duke of Cornwall. This title is inherited at birth by every male heir to the English throne.
In the following centuries Cornwall enjoyed relative peace. Its tin trade was the largest in Europe. Stannary towns grew around the places where tin was brought to be tested for purity. The reformation brought sad times for Cornwall with churches closed and the bible the New Prayer book printed in English, a language which the Cornish neither liked nor wanted. The Cornish language was mostly extinct by 1800. No specific genealogical sources are written in the language, but its influence does appear in the inheritance of names. There is an over-abundance of simple patronymic surname - Thomas, Roberts, etc.
The county of Cornwall is in the extreme south west of Britain , with the Tamar river as its border. By Australian standards it is a small area. Its length from Lands End to the southern boundary with Devon is 70 miles and it is about 25 miles wide, although only 7 miles wide at the narrowest part. The long and rugged coastline is an important factor in the lives of the people. Ships were wrecked so frequently providing "wrecking" or the gathering of wreckage as a lucrative pastime. Smuggling was a recognized sport and fishing a huge industry.
Even in the beginning of the 18th century the roads into Cornwall were in a primitive state. There were two main roads, one which followed the backbone of the county out of Launceston and the other which followed the South Coast. In the absence of roads suitable for wheeled vehicles, practically all goods from county districts were carried on mules and ponies.
The name and language of Cornwall has an interesting history as well. Cornwall takes its name from Cornovii, meaning hill dwellers and Waelas, meaning strangers. Interestingly Wales takes its name from Waelas.
Cornwall has its own flag, the flag of St Piran, patron saint of the miners. Its simple white cross against a black background, represents the triumph of good over evil and the dressed tin over the darker tin ore. Cornwall also claims to have its own Cornish National Anthem, called ‘The Song of the Western Men’. The national emblem consists of a shield containing fifteen golden balls and bearing the motto "One and All". This represents fifteen golden balls raised by the Cornish as ransom for a Duke of Cornwall captured by the Saracens during the crusades.
Prior to the Roman invasion the inhabitants of Wales, Devon and Cornwall retained much the same language and culture. Following the invasion the language took on different forms. The Welsh language survived and its usage is promoted and encouraged with the re-awakening of Welsh nationalism.The Cornish Language managed to survive until the 18th Century. It is now being revived through the medium of Cornish language classes, within a burgeoning nationalist movement. For those interested the Cornish language may also be studied in Australia.
It is said that Cornwall has stimulated writers of greater outpourings than any other English County; and certainly as many as either Scotland or Wales. Thomas Hardy, the great Victorian novelist and poet wrote in 1870 "The place is pre-eminently the region of dream and mystery" Even today this mystical land continues to exert a strange influence over those who come to visit its secret and sacred places, to marvel at the breathtakingly beautiful coastline or simply to bask on its sun-drenched beaches.You are never more than 20 miles from the sea in Cornwall-and never more than a short walk from antiquity. Yet for the interest it engenders, it is an economically fragile area, with high unemployment and is today greately reliant on the tourist trade for its survival. Despite many Cornishmen (and women) driven to emigrate, Cornwall still continues to hold a great fascination.
As Bendigo's most eminent Cornishman, Sir John Quick, predicted on a lecture on Cornwall in Bendigo in 1913, "It is a land of cherished and immortal memories which will be dear to Cornish people and their descendants through generations". An observation warmly applauded.
It is said that Cornwall was once known as the Kingdom of Kernow - land of Mystery and legends; included in which are those of King Arthur and the lost land of Lyonesse - said to lie submerged off the tip of the county. I recently came accross an article titled "Legends of Long ago" from Cranstar’s Historial Cornwall. It mentions that Cornwall was home to a number of legends. These included;
Jack the Giant Killer - According to Cornish legend, Jack was a farmer's son who lived near Land's End in the days of King Arthur. The folk of the area were being terrorised by Cormoran the Giant of St. Michael's Mount, who stole cattle and carried them away either on his back or dangling from his belt. A reward was offered to anyone who would slay the fearsome giant and Jack took up the challenge. He dug a huge pit near Morvah and covered it with sticks and straw. Then he lured the Giant away from the Mount by blowing his horn. The angry Giant rushed down the Mount and fell into the pit. Jack then struck him a mortal blow with his pick- axe and filled the pit with earth. For his brave deed he was given a magnificent sword and belt, embroidered "Who slew the Giant Cormoran".
The Lost land of Lyonesse - There are many legends of towns and countries submerged beneath the waves,but the legend of the lost land of Lyonesse is possibly the most famous. Lyonesse,we are told,was once a country beyond Land's End that boasted fine cities and 140 churches; then on November 11th 1099 a great storm blew up and the marauding sea swept over it,drowning the luckless inhabitants and submerging the kingdom beneath the waves,until all that remained to view were the mountain peaks to the west,known to us now as the Isles of Scilly.Only one man survived. His name was Trevilian and he rode a white horse up to high ground at Perranuthnoe before the waves could overwhelm him. A 16th century writer tells us that Land's End once stretched far to the west with a watchtower at the farthest point to guide sailors. The rocks known as the Seven Stones were believed to be the remains of a great city,called "The Town" by sailors,who told of dragging up window, doors and other domestic items in their nets.They also related how they had heard the church bells of Lyonesse ringing beneath the waves.
The lady of the Lake - Dozmary Pool is a natural moorland lake situated to the south of Bolventor on Bodmin Moor. Once it was home of ancient man,who has left remnants of his presence in the shape of hut circles and other prehistoric remains.Local folk long believed that the strange, mysterious Pool was bottomless and had a whirlpool in the centre. It is hardly surprising,then,that it has become an integral part of two major Cornish legends. John Tregagle,the evil disciple of the Devil was doomed to bail out the endless waters of Dozmary Pool with a leaking limpet shell for eternity,in penance for his crimes.It was into the depths of Dozmary pool,too, so legend tells us,that King Arthur's sword Excalibur was cast by his loyal lieutenant Sir Bedivere on the orders of the dying King. A hand and arm rose up from the surface of the lake,clad in the white samite, caught the sword and drew it underneath.
Other legends included the stories of giants roaming around Cornwall and mermaids especially off the caost of Lands End. There is one particular legend involving the Mermaid of Zennor, which is close to St Ives. Even today this mystical land continues to exert a strange influence over those who come to visit its secret and sacred places, to marvel at the breathtakingly beautiful coastline or simply to bask on its sun-drenched beaches. Ancient and modern, past and present,Cornwall remains truly a Land of Legends.Long may it be so.
I mentioned earlier that Cornwall was becoming known for its mining, especially of tin. It was for centuries the mainstay of Cornwall's economy. The early tinners, as they were known did not have the knowledge or the tools to dig deep shafts. They merely sifted the particles of tin from where it had lodged in streams, which was known as streaming. Another method employed was to crush the tin bearing rocks and harvest the fragments. When enough had been collected, it was smelted down by means of heating it in a kiln. It was then mixed with copper to form hard wearing substances suitable for arrow heads and tools. Soon they learned to follow the lodes and dig deeper and deeper. By trial and error, which undoubtedly led to many accidents and deaths, they learnt how to shore up the sides of the mine for safety.
With time and necessity, mining methods and implements also improved and the Cornish miners became experts in their field. Because of the nature of the terrain in Cornwall, they also became experts at hard rock mining. It is therefore clear that the great Cornish contribution to Bendigo was for two reasons. The first is the similarity of the hard rock. The second was their knowledge of deep shafting in the mines.
On the left is a photograph of a typical Cornish mining scene, with the ocean in the background. Some Cornish mines actually ran under the sea. The introduction of steam powered engines had an enormous effect on Cornish mining and they were improved upon so that they could be used to solve the problem of water seepage. Cornish engineers such as Richard Trevithick, were at the fore in the invention and implementation of mining technology, which of course found its way to Bendigo. As a result of the new technology and the improvements in mining, Cornish miners began digging deeper and deeper. This of course did little for the health of the average Cornish miner. Miner’s disease (a mine related lung disease), as it was known then was common and led to the early deaths of many. A study carried out in 1906, showed that Cornwall and Bendigo had the highest incidence of mine related lung disease.
It is interesting that the decline of the mining deposits of Cornwall coincided with the discoveries of gold in Australia and the United States. Not all Cornish miners made their money as miners. Because of their knowledge many became Mine Managers. In one year alone, 1875, over 10,00 people left Cornwall for Australia. Dr Philip Payton in his excellent book "The Cornish Miner in Australia" states that between the years 1836 to 1886 in South Australia alone, of the 162,853 migrants who settled, 12,967 (8% of the population) came from Cornwall. When taking into account the possible migration from other states together with missing data a figure of perhaps 16,000 is quite likely. Furthermore Dr Payton suggests that from an analysis of population estimates and surname origins it is possible that in 1900 some 30,000 people may claim to be of direct Cornish descent in the colony of South Australia alone.
The fact that such a great migration did occur is well documented, but what were the factors that instigated it? With the foundation of the colony of South Australia in 1836, a well orchestrated campaign of recruitment was initiated in the county. Agents were appointed initially by the colony and later by the mines themselves to recruit suitable employees from the Cornish mines. Meetings and lectures were held at the principle towns proclaiming the virtues and prospects of the new colony and the flow of emigrants started. When combined with the failure of the potato crop in 1840 and the hardship thus incurred this flow became a veritable torrent. Meanwhile other factors were at play and to see these it is necessary to look at the employment trends in the county at that time.
It is interesting to note that securing employment was not the only problem facing the Cornish families, for the collapse of the copper price roughly coincided with a dramatic increase in the price of some basic commodities. For example, the monthly salary for a hard working miner in the St Just area in 1865 was about £3-3-0, but by 1867 this had fallen to £2-10-0. Whereas during the same period the price for a sack of flour had risen from £1-10-0 to £2-10-0. The consequence of all these factors can be seen by the predictable increase in the number of paupers receiving indoor relief at the workhouse.
It is interesting to see how the miners and their families lived and survived. Early homes were very basic. They usually contained two rooms, one for eating and living in and the other for sleeping in. Large families were of the norm, so children often slept in lofts built into the rafters. As with the rest of England, sanitation and drainage were primitive, which led to the outbreak of numerous infectious diseases.
If you were fortunate enough to have access to some land, it was usually used for growing fruit, vegetables and crops. Some miners were privileged enough to have a pig, which was used for its meat. Portions of the pig were even sold for a small price. It was also fairly common for families to have shares in a cow, which would supply both milk and even cream, a luxury in those days. Another type of food peculiar to Cornwall was the hevva cake; and most importantly by Cornish standards, the bright yellow saffron cake or bun. Its' origins are lost in time, but despite the cost of procuring the saffron, it still retains its popularity.
I suppose I cannot talk about food, without mentioning the Cornish pastie. Pasties evolved as a means of providing a nourishing meal and were eaten either warm or cold. It was a convenient wholesome meal, easily packed to be eaten at meal time down the mines. The pastie was of particular value to miners and amidst such poverty the filling consisted of whatever happened to be available at the time. It is interesting to note that during the 1890's, following a Cornish Pastie Competition, there were numerous articles published in the Bendigo Advertiser, on the correct way to make a Cornish pastie. Interestingly and though it may have some relation to womens reluctance to seek publicity, all the letters were from men. In fact one actually suggested that people should apply to Mr. J. Jewell for the correct information. One could not even hazard a guess at how many Cornish pasties have been baked and eaten over the years. Not surprising the Cornish pastie of today bears little or no resemblance to the product baked and sold under this name today.
On reading Ruth Hopkins book "Where Now Cousin Jack?", I came across a poem, which was written about the cornish pastie. It goes like this;
Crusty, juicy succulent,
Cornish pasties ever meant
The heartening of gallant men -
Cornwall's famed Tre Pol and Pen,
Toothsome provender I ween,
Titillating nostrils keen
Piping hot and good to see
How your savour calls to me.
On the right is a copy of a photograph featuring a group of Cornish Bakers in Bendigo.
The Cornish were an inherently religious and superstitious people and no part of south-west England is so rich in memorials of the Celtic era as Cornwall. However it may have been this religious prosperity, which on the surface at least, allowed the Christian missionaries from Ireland and Wales to eventually convert the Cornish people. There is no doubt that many pagan customs were retained and the missionaries themselves utilised some Celtic traditions to aid in their acceptance.
Other reminders of Cornwall's religious predilections lie in its Celtic crosses, numerous churches and such memorials as stone circles, the last of which are thought to have been ancient meeting places of religious astronomical significance. Having survived the ravages of time and the indifference of subsequent generations, the one near Penzance known as the Merry Maidens, has been deemed by a different religious ethos as nineteen maidens doomed to remain as stone monuments to their wickedness, through dancing on the Sabbath.
According to my research, the most common religion in Cornwall is Methodism. It is said that the Methodist religion began with a dedicated evangelist, in the late 1700's, John Wesley. When he first visited Cornwall he was met with stones and abuse, but following his persistence his message gradually took hold of many Cornish men and woman and Cornwall became a stronghold of Methodism - the name generally applied to the methodical practice of religion preached by Wesley and his followers. Methodism is still practiced more widely in Cornwall than any other part of England.
According to my research the Jewell family were members of the Bible Christians, a movement which of course has its origins in Cornwall. It was founded in 1815, as the result of an earnest young Wesleyan lay preacher's concern for the miners and the farmers in the outlying districts, who had no Methodist church in their vicinity. The name of the founder was William O'Bryan.
Cornish people were and still are, great lovers of music. Local inns resounded nightly to traditional and introduced airs. The harmonising voices of the miners could be heard as they trudged back and forth from the mines. As a result of the Cornish people’s love of music, John Wesley and his followers were heard to utter "make joyful noise unto the lord".
Indeed John Wesley and more particularly his brother Charles, were involved on the arrangement and composition of many fine hymns. It could be said then that the Methodist religion's success may be in part, due to the innate Cornish sensibilities, spiritual and musical; which along with forceful dramatic preaching were vital to whipping up emotional style conversions, which were indeed ‘mate and drink’ to many Cornish.
It is also evident that the Cornish, in conjunction with their singing, had a love of the drink. A somewhat exaggerated account of Cornish drinking habits at the beginning of the 18th century states "If there be but three houses together two shall be ale houses".
There is no doubt that throughout the years Cornishmen (and women), have always seen themselves as outsiders to the rest of England. If they had their way, the United Kingdom would be made of England, Wales, Scotland and Cornwall. According to Robert Hunt the folk historian writing of Cornwall claimed (around 1871) that "England with many persons, appeared to terminate on the banks of the Tamar". I was also reading a book, in which it is said that a Mrs. Martin, a Cornish woman from Wendron, living in Bendigo, was heard to say of a family who recently emigrated from England, that they were nice people 'for foreigners'.
I would like to finish off with another poem I read in "Where Now Cousin Jack?" It goes like this:
Please note that sections of this chapter were based on the many books I have read on the History of Cornwall including "Where Now Cousin Jack?" by Ruth Hopkins and "Legends Long Ago" from Cranston’s Historical Cornwall.
For further information try the;
© Jewell Family History Centre
Last Updated 25th February 1997
|
<urn:uuid:66f0d1a5-41ad-4652-bb4c-786b2ece41c4>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://www.jewell.asn.au/family-history/cornwall.htm
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397842.93/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00137-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.980698
| 4,217
| 3.265625
| 3
|
Conservation groups have accused the Federal Government of failing to protect the koala under national laws.
The Commonwealth is currently considering a plan to make the koala "conservation dependent", which would see the states play a role in removing threats such as developments that could destroy koala habitats.
But Deborah Tabart from the Australian Koala Foundation says the states have failed so far and the koala needs greater protection if it is to survive.
"Here we have an animal that should be listed by the Federal Government," she said.
"'Conservation dependent' basically means nothing. You can still leave the decision-making to the states or local governments, and that's seen thousands of koalas die.
"We all know that the states haven't been able to protect the koala in the last 200 years. Why would we think they could in the future?
"I am so disappointed in Minister [Peter] Garrett."
Ms Tabart says there are as few as 43,000 koalas left in Australia.
Environment Minister Peter Garrett says the "conservation dependent" listing would give state governments a key role in koala protection.
"The responsibilities need to be shared," he said. "My expectation is that everyone will pull their weight."
The Federal Government will make its decision later this year.
|
<urn:uuid:1e82b316-fb21-4cca-b6f8-9a9d361d49e2>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://mobile.abc.net.au/news/2010-05-25/garrett-accused-of-abandoning-koalas/839444?pfm=sm
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783395613.65/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154955-00091-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.974548
| 270
| 2.828125
| 3
|
What the race to reach Mars tomorrow says about Earth today
By: Bennett Voyles
Bas Lansdorp is looking for a few good Martians. The 35-year-old Dutch entrepreneur is taking applications today to be part of the four-person crew he intends to send to Mars in 2023. In press conferences and other appearances, Lansdorp says that the technology to get to the Red Planet already exists. The tricky part is coming back. And so Lansdorp has proposed a radical solution: don't come back. It's difficult to tell how seriously we should take Lansdorp's plan to build a permanent colony on the Red Planet, beginning with four pioneers in 2023 and joined by four more every two years after that.
In his press appearances, Lansdorp seems serious, if a bit high strung, and he does have a number of scientists on his advisory board. However, the logistics of getting people from here to a planet 140 million km or so away are probably a little more complicated than building a very slick social media campaign: 50% of all the Mars probes ever sent have failed for one reason or another, according to one Wikipedia tally. But whatever the Mars One expedition may or may not mean for Mars tomorrow, the enthusiasm Lansdorp has tapped does say some interesting things about life on Earth today:
78,000 people have put down money for a chance to leave the planet forever.
Since Mars One began accepting applications on April 22, 78,000 people have volunteered to go to a world where they would never again go outside, feel wind that wasn't generated by an air conditioner, or sit under a tree. They have even paid money for the chance — between $5 and $73, depending on their country, according to a website. The organisers say they have been surprised at the strength of the demand. "The response has been overwhelming and easily overshoots our initial expectations," says Aashima Dogra, editorial manager of Mars One. Assuming that only hard core science fiction junkies have heard about the expedition and these 78,000 are just the early adopters, it becomes easy to imagine that they may end up being just a fraction of the number of people who will eventually sign up before the application deadline closes in August.
Many of the candidates don't really live here anyway.
As part of the application, candidates must submit a short video, some of which are posted on the Mars One site. I've looked at some of these videos, and they're an interesting mix. Most of the candidates are young and seem deeply bored with their current lives. They're people like Denise, a serious 29-year-old German army veteran who emigrated to Australia in 2007, probably not with the intention of ending up as the deputy manager of a supermarket. The group has a higher number of engineers than in an ordinary sample, probably because a serious interest in science fiction seems like kind of a prerequisite to apply, but otherwise, few applicants seem to have any special skills. Ilya, a 24-year-old Russian who says the expedition should hire him in part because "I'm a really great cook." Mubashshir, an Indian, says he should be chosen, "because I am extraordinarily kind". Others are more like Noman, a 20-year-old Indian now living in South Africa, who says "I always had a feeling inside me that I was born on this planet for a special reason."
Most of the applicants are Americans.
Just judging from the number of video applications posted on the website, the country with the most applicants seems to be the United States: five Indian videos have been posted, 12 Chinese, and maybe 100 Americans. The preponderance of Americans is perhaps no surprise, and not just because Americans tend to find it easier to embrace the new, new thing. Given that Americans work longer hours than anybody in the industrial world and several surveys say they spend an average of 94% of their day inside a building or inside a vehicle, the idea of giving up the cubicle may not be all that frightening — particularly when you consider the high level of job security that would go along with being a Martian colonist.
The future has been privatised.
John F. Kennedy once inspired a nation to go to the moon. Today, it's people like Lansdorp, and they're trying to inspire the whole world. Entrepreneurs Richard Branson of Virgin Airways and Elon Musk of SpaceX have their own space travel businesses under development, and former space tourist Dennis Tito, another tycoon, is trying to raise money for a 2018 fly-by expedition.
The future is multinational — sort of.
Although the Mars One team is accepting applications from all over the world, the fine print stipulates you have to speak fairly good English. Like Star Trek, ethnicity is a good thing, but within certain limits.
It's about the show.
The English is important, and not just because there aren't that many astronauts who can say, "Rotterdam, we have a problem", in Dutch. The hundreds of videos on the Mars One site aren't beside the point; they are the point. Beyond the one-way trip, Landsdorp's second insight has been to realise that a Mars expedition would not just be one giant step for mankind, but a giant step for reality TV. The ultimate organiser of this venture is a nonprofit called the Mars One Foundation, but it's the controlling shareholder in a Dutch company handling the expedition, the Interplanetary Media Group.
Lansdorp is betting that he can finance what he estimates will be a $6-billion expedition as the ultimate reality TV series. In a world where the TV rights for the Olympics can sell for several billion, why couldn't you sell a Mars landing to the same distributors? 'It sounds like a lot of money. And actually it is a lot of money. But imagine what will happen when the first people land on Mars. Literally everybody on the globe will want to see it," Lansdorp has said. Ultimately, for Lansdorp, the crucial question is less, who can I find who will give me $6 billion to go to Mars, than, who would pay a buck to see it? As the comedienne Mae West said, "If I can't find a man with a million dollars, I'll find a million men with one dollar."
Couch potatoes turn patrons.
Beyond sales of broadcast rights and memorabilia — the Mars expedition may not have its space suits worked out yet, but you can buy state-of-the-art hoodies, t-shirts, and coffee mugs — the group is also accepting donations. As of April 29, they had raised $37,000 from the US and $7,000 from the UK, which, after all, are the world's biggest exporters of science fiction. (Indians seem a bit more sceptical — $159 — but not so much as the Dominican Republic: Dominicans have contributed a grand total of $1, thus far.) That isn't much of a down payment on $6 billion, but the Donate button is also a sign of the times.
Patrons have been part of art and science for thousands of years, but the internet is making it easier for people to raise money for all kinds of schemes, through websites such as kickstarter.com, where since 2009, 4 million people have pledged $596 million for 44,000 creative projects, such as sending an artist to the North Pole or helping a band finish an album. Start-ups are cashing in on the "crowd funding" trend too. Lansdorp's former company, Ampyx Power, a Dutch wind power company that is developing a system that will use tethered gliders that generate electricity by catching faster and more reliable high-altitude wind currents, has also set up ways for small investors to make tiny investments in their venture.
Being a space colonist looks suspiciously like sitting at home in front of the TV.
Being a space dude used to involve blasting lasers, wrestling with aliens, and flirting with ladies painted an alarming shade of green. Now, off-planet possibilities look considerably less exciting. In Mars One mock-ups, a robot crew will have a lot of things set up before the settlers get there, including the atmosphere, the greenhouse, and the living quarters. The Mars One website features pictures of couches and big picture windows looking out on a red desert, looking like a sort of high-tech dude ranch. This should worry the Mars One impresarios, particularly if the colonists get along all right. How do you keep the TV drama going, particularly if couples and children are discouraged in the colony's early years? As one person in the media launch asked, "What the f**k are you going to do on Mars for the rest of your life?"
One answer might be, not much. For one thing, human beings don't seem to do very well in lowgravity environments. Jerry Linger, a Nasa astronaut who spent four months in Russia's Mir space station in 1997, told Canada's National Post that the astronauts tend to have a hard time sleeping in the space station. "It's kind of like you're wiped out after New Year's Eve, kind of like a hangover or something," he said. For another, living in close quarters tends not to bring out the best in people. In a 2011 simulation project, a six-man multinational crew lived 520 days in a simulated space capsule in Moscow to test the psycho-social effects of a Martian voyage. According to some reports, the crew experienced a number of periods where they had become increasingly withdrawn and lethargic, and there are some funny pictures of the intrepid crew zonked out in front of a TV. French "simul-naut" Romain Charles, on exit, advised astronauts attempting future voyages to always stay busy, "and don't forget your e-reader."
They're looking at the wrong end of the telescope.
Start-ups are notorious for not seeing the real value of their innovation, and Mars One may be no exception. As the futurist Buckminster Fuller used to note, we're already in space. Our six billion neighbours already constitute an incredible reality TV programme, one that includes some nice scenery and plenty of drama. What we've lacked for the past 150 years or so however is a civilised way to vote people off the island. In the past, Europe might send a Napoleon to a distant island and Great Britain might pack its convicts off to Australia, but in today's global village, the non-violent disposal of the unpopular tends to be difficult.
That's where Mars One could come in, by helping improve our own reality show right here. Rather than find people who want to go, they should look for people the world would like to send. There are precedents, even before Elba: the ancient Athenians had just such a reverse-popularity contest every year. Each citizen would take a piece of a pot and write on it the name of someone he would like to see banished. Anyone who collected 6,000 nominations was sent away for 10 years. These banished people were not convicted for a crime so they could make no defence — they were just told essentially that the people had decided it would be better if they went away.
Sometimes, there were political reasons for what they called an ostracism. Other times, they just seem to have gotten tired of particular individuals. One anecdote has it that Aristides the Just, an Athenian who was sent away, recalled helping an illiterate man who did not know him write Aristides on his pot shard, and when he asked what he had against Aristides, the man said he was just tired of hearing this guy Aristides called "the just". Who would not be missed? Silvio Berlusconi or Kim Jong-un of North Korea could go. Eighty percent of the French are ready to send Francois Hollande. Non-political celebrities too might make the grade: Justin Bieber, for instance, and then there's that British boy band, the conveniently branded group One Direction. The real challenge would be limiting the number of candidates to four.
(The author, a Paris-based business writer, is a columnist for ET Magazine)
|
<urn:uuid:fd0b3051-54df-4eea-bac1-c7ea73366b16>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-industry/et-cetera/what-the-race-to-reach-mars-tomorrow-says-about-earth-today/articleshow/19885948.cms
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783403508.34/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624155003-00079-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.967393
| 2,533
| 2.875
| 3
|
If someone asked you to name the most beautiful word or phrase in English, how would you choose? Would it be based on the meaning of the word? How it sounds? How it is spelled?
There are some words, like “love,” “comely,” or “demure,” that seem like solid contenders. But the compound word that some believe to be the most inherently beautiful will likely come as a colossal surprise.
“Cellar door.” That’s no typo. In terms of phonaesthetics, cellar door is often held up as an example of the most euphonic sound combination. J.R.R. Tolkien, author of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings, is credited as one of the first to make this claim.
(If you think “cellar door” is an odd choice, consider that some people “taste” letters and “hear” colors. Learn what this phenomenon is called, here.)
Euphony is used most commonly to describe the pleasing, agreeable sound effect of poetry. In general, vowel sounds are more euphonious. Cacophony, meaning harsh and discordant, is the opposite of euphony. Cacophony comes from the Greek word parts meaning “bad,” “evil,” and “voice.”
Say the words slowly: “cellar door.” Is the sound pleasing to your ears? Let us know what you think the most beautiful words are in English and why.
|
<urn:uuid:0d5d4223-354b-4134-9bfe-acc12e123b90>
|
CC-MAIN-2016-26
|
http://blog.dictionary.com/cellar-door/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-26/segments/1466783397748.48/warc/CC-MAIN-20160624154957-00164-ip-10-164-35-72.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.964467
| 329
| 2.765625
| 3
|
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.