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The last common ancestor shared by humans and pigs was approximately 79-97 million years ago. Mice and humans shared a common ancestor approximately 75 million years ago whereas humans and chimps diverged 5-7 million years ago. On an evolutionary scale, humans are about as related to pigs as we are to mice. Nevertheless, when the genome of the Wuzhishan pig was published in GigaScience (Fang et al. 2012), journalists, along with the researchers and universities involved, made some bombastic claims. Fang et al claimed: “Understanding the pig counterparts of human drug targets is vital for pre-clinical drug screening, using pigs as a model organism.” Alison Abbott writing in Nature states that scientists have been using pigs “to try to create more faithful models of human disease” and that the pig genome will speed this process, “and perhaps even allow pigs to be engineered to provide organs for transplant into human patients.”(Abbott 2012) Abbott continues: The NIH launched the NSRRC in 2003 to encourage research in pig disease models. Pigs are more expensive to keep than rodents, and they reproduce more slowly. But the similarities between pig and human anatomy and physiology can trump the drawbacks. For example, their eyes are a similar size, with photoreceptors similarly distributed in the retina. So the pig became the first model for retinitis pigmentosa, a cause of blindness. And four years ago, researchers created a pig model of cystic fibrosis that, unlike mouse models, developed symptoms resembling those in humans. Popular VideoThis young teenage singer was shocked when Keith Urban invited her on stage at his concert. A few moments later, he made her wildest dreams come true. Noting similarities between species is meaningless in terms of how the animal reacts to drugs and disease. For example, the size of the eye says nothing about the wiring. Any animal can be a model for a disease. Nevertheless, this begs the question: “What kind of model?” If the model is said to be predictive for how humans respond to drugs and disease, the fact that animals and humans are evolved complex systems suggests the predictive value of the model will be minimal. Conversely, if the model is to be used as a heuristic, then it could have value. It probably will not be funded; but it could have heuristic value. Apparently, pigs will become the new animal model of choice. Abbott: Pig models are now being developed for other common conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, cancer and muscular dystrophy. This work will be enriched by the discovery, reported in the genome paper, of 112 gene variants that might be involved in human diseases. Knowledge of the genome is also allowing scientists to try to engineer pigs that could be the source of organs, including heart and liver, for human patients. Pig organs are roughly the right size, and researchers hope to create transgenic pigs carrying genes that deceive the immune system of recipients into not rejecting the transplants. Pigs and humans share many genes but this does not mean they are used in the same way or that modifier genes interact with the shared genes in the same way. The same genes can also be regulated and expressed differently. This alone invalidates the notion of “pig as a predictive model” for human response to drugs and disease. Popular VideoThis young teenage singer was shocked when Keith Urban invited her on stage at his concert. A few moments later, he made her wildest dreams come true: A press release from GigaScience, echoes the above: “Researchers provide a whole-genome sequence and analysis of a miniature pig that serves as a model organism for human medical studies and therapeutic drug testing.” The press release from the University of Edinburg states: “Pig gene discovery could help combat animal and human disease.” The press release from BioMed Central states: “An in-depth analysis of this sequence, along with comparison to human genes, has provided a wealth of knowledge for use in medical engineering and drug design.” Clearly, such statements imply the pig model will be of predictive value. Rodents have failed as predictive models so the animal model community must offer the public another model, making the same promises they made about rodents. The “pig as human” is simply the latest iteration of this con. In a related study, Groenen et al (2012) compared the pig (Sus scrofa) genome to the genomes of other mammals. The authors state: The pig is an important biomedical model and the ability to generate transgenics and knockouts in combination with somatic nuclear cloning procedures has resulted in a number of models for specific human diseases. . . . We observed 112 positions where the porcine protein has the same amino acid that is implicated in a human disease . . . These porcine variants are of interest, as they will allow detailed characterization in an experimental model organism whose physiology is very similar to that of human. There were moments of sanity in the announcements. The GigaScience press release stated: However, the researchers also found that there were several situations where target genes showed important differences from the human versions. This information is of great use as well, as it provides a clear indication of the types of drug testing for which this organism is not as useful, saving unnecessary experimentation, time, and money. There are far more differences between the genomes of humans and pigs than the genes described above. What all these statements have in common is the failure to place this scientific breakthrough in the context of complexity theory. Living organisms are complex system and this explains, in part, why very small differences in genetic make-up (initial conditions) can result in dramatic differences in response to perturbations such as drugs and disease. Even single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) between humans can result in life-threatening disease. There is one thing that sequencing the pig genome will be useful for: learning about pigs. Abbott: Back on the farm, early knowledge about the pig genome led to the discovery in 1991 of a gene involved in porcine stress syndrome, in which the stress of overheating, being moved or even having sex causes the animals to die suddenly4. It then became possible to test for the gene and select pig stocks free of it. Sequencing the pig genome is a scientific accomplishment and it will aid in the study of comparative physiology, genomics and evolution. But the pig will not be a predictive model for human response to drugs and disease. The fact that the scientists involved in sequencing the pig genome are oblivious to a large field of science (complex systems) is cause for concern. Abbott, Allison. 2012. Pig geneticists go the whole hog. Nature, November 14, 2012 2012 [cited November 19 2012]. Available from http://www.nature.com/news/pig-geneticists-go-the-whole-hog-1.11801. Fang, et al 2012. The sequence and analysis of a Chinese pig genome. GigaScience 1 (1):16. Groenen, et al. 2012. Analyses of pig genomes provide insight into porcine demography and evolution. Nature 491 (7424):393-398.
Bed bugs are wingless insects and as such move around by crawling or riding from place to place in clothing, luggage or other such transport. Distribution can be further exacerbated in places such as theatres and public transport, with infestations frequently occurring in hotels and other buildings where there is a high density and turnover of individuals. Bed bugs are mostly found in bedrooms as they generally feed at night when the host is asleep. When not feeding they live in the bed frame or cracks and crevices around the room. They do not harbour in the mattress or bedding material. They are reddish brown in colour turning blood red after feeding. The adult reaches approximately 5mm in length and passes through five nymph stages over a period of time to 128 days. The female lays her eggs in batches of 10 to 50, they are white in colour and deposited on various surfaces with a thin glue. They take on average 10 days to hatch and can mature into adults within one to two months given ample food. The female is then ready to start laying eggs. The speed of development depends on temperature and food availability. Surprisingly, bed bugs can live longer without food and can go without feeding for up to 140 days; the adult typically lives for about 10 months but can survive for a year or longer in cool buildings. This sensitivity to temperature means bed bugs will start to die if temperatures drop below 9ºC or rise above 36ºC. However, modern buildings have created ideal conditions for the bed bug with central heating and easy access to adjoining properties being commonplace. Bed Bugs are one of the hardest insects to treat and treatments will only work if the preparation has been done correctly. The bed sheets & curtains must be removed & washed. The room(s) to be treated must be vacuumed & cleaned. The drawers & wardrobes must be emptied & the clothes only re introduced to the rooms once they have been washed or tumble dried. The treatment will fail if the room is full of clutter. The rooms must be clear of toys, books, boxes, bags, posters etc. Be careful not to put any of these objects into other rooms as you may spread the infestation. Objects in the room that cannot be either washed, tumble dried or sprayed with the insecticide (books, shoes, cd’s, Bags etc) must be put in a freezer overnight. This should be done before putting objects back into a treated room. Bhayandar Pest Control, are engaged in providing effective services for pest control in Bhayandar. we have specialized in offering residential, commercial and corporate pest control services. Cockroaches and ants are a major nuisance in most homes as they spoil the surface and contaminate the food. We understand the extent of damage that these pests can cause and thus we make use of gel baiting and odorless spray that attacks the problems at its root. Rats and rodents can be fatal as they carry deadly diseases and contaminate food. They also damage your clothes and electronics. Our pest control company in Bhayandar, navi mumbai make use of techniques and products that can trap these rodents and give back a rodent-free society compound, home/office to you. Ants are one of the most common pests, found almost everywhere you live. These are social pests that live in colonies or groups. Ants can be both nuisance and harmful. There are different types of ants that you can see them marching on your home walls, windows, or floor. There are also flying ants due to which the people can’t tell the difference between termites and ants. Mosquitoes are dangerous because they spread many diseases like dengue, malaria and brain fever to name a few. We use two methods of thermal fogging and cold fogging to eliminate mosquitoes from your home and office. And also uses Odorless chemicals to control mosquitoes. No matters, that your property is commercial or residential, Eco-Friendly Pests Control professional provides the utmost solutions to keep pests away. Our pest control services provide the best treatment plan to tailored your needs. Our various types of pest treatments, residual disinfection, pre-construction projection services, and more. We make sure that your commercial and residential properties remain pest-free. Our important purpose is to provide a good service to customers at a best price, without compromising on the quality of service. Schedule a Complimentary inspection of your Residential or Commercial place and effectively rid your life of pests! We are the company for safe pest removal. We know all about dangerous insect and provide insects control treatments. We have our strong presence around the Mumbai and are widely appreciated for our effective Pest Control Services In Bhayandar, which are in line with the customers’ requirements. We apply the safest insecticides through our modern equipment for ensuring 100% effectiveness in controlling the pests. This in turn ensures safety of human beings. Pests are everywhere and they are capable of wrecking the entire household. It is very important for every household to make sure that they live in a hygienic and disease-free environment. We are prominent Pest Control service providers In Bhayandar offering our pest control services In Bhayandar to our clients spread all and across the country.. Part of our mission is to establish a group of certified professionals to serve the public, our partners and our customers, with honesty, integrity and professionalism. Looking for the best pest control in Bhayandar, Navi Mumbai? 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Greek parliament votes for civil unions December 24th, 2015 Greece’s parliament has approved a bill granting same-sex couples the right to a civil union, becoming one of the last European countries to give them legal recognition after years of opposition from the influential Orthodox church. The bill does not include adoption rights and may have other deficiencies. Cyprus votes for civil unions November 28th, 2015 Cyprus is an island in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Turkey and Lebanon. Traditionally ethnically and religiously Greek, it is the easternmost part of the European Union. The nation of about one million people has a democratic government, which is currently controlled by a pro-West party. (About 17% of the population is Turkish, but they consider themselves a separate nation and do not participate in Cyprus’ legislature). Cypriots tend to be religious and the Orthodox Church (Greek) has significant sway on the community. But while the Church – and the population – is socially conservative, inclusion in the European Union appears at this time to be an economic necessity. And European courts and political entities have stressed the importance of recognition of same-sex couples. On Thursday, the Cyprus House of Representatives voted to allow civil unions, with all the rights (other than adoption) granted to married couples. (kaleidoscot.com) The Cypriot parliament has voted in favour of the Civil Partnership Bill, meaning that same-sex unions will be legally recognised in the Mediterranean republic for the first time. The House of Representatives voted by 39 to 12 in favour of extending same-sex couples in civil partnerships the same legal rights as civil marriage. However, join adoption rights were not included in the new civil union legislation. Italy edges towards equality October 21st, 2015 Italy is the only nation in Western Europe that does not offer some form of recognition for same-sex couples. However, that appears to be about to change. (thelocal.it) Italy’s parliament began debating a civil union bill for gay couples on Wednesday, kicking off a hotly-awaited rights battle championed by Premier Matteo Renzi but expected to drag on for months. While attempts by previous administrations to change the law have been thwarted by parties with deep ties to the powerful Catholic Church, this time the majority of opposition parties have said they support the bill. The bill has significant popular support and changes in the tone of language from the Holy See suggest that opposition from the Church and her faithful will be less vehement than in the past. Greece, Italy, and Cyprus move towards civil unions June 10th, 2015 Three Southern European countries are taking steps closer to civil unions. Today Italy‘s lower house has passed a motion supporting civil unions. (ansa.it) The motion commits the government “to promote the adoption of a law on civil unions, particularly with regard to the condition of the people of same sex”. It also commits the government “to ensure equal treatment throughout the nation” of civil unions. Premier Matteo Renzi and Justice Minister Andrea Orlando have both said recently that Italy needs a civil unions law. The motion was approved with 204 votes in favor, 83 against and 98 abstentions. While this would, no doubt, have infuriated previous Pope Benedict the Malevolent, when Argentina was considering implementing marriage equality, Pope Francis (who was Archbishop of Buenos Aires at the time) proposed civil unions as a compromise. So Vatican opposition may be less fierce than it would have been a few years back. In April, the government of Cyprus drafted a civil unions bill and sent it to Parliament. (Gay Star News) The Cypriot Cabinet Wednesday (6 April) approved a long-awaited civil partnership bill that would allow gay couples to register their relationships and grant them all marriage rights except joint adoption. The legislation will now be sent to parliament, where it will be discussed and put to a vote. The bill is considered likely to pass. Also today, the Greek government announced a bill to enact civil unions. (PappasPost) Greece’s Ministry of Justice announced today it plans to introduce legislation— for the first time in Greek history— giving Civil Union rights to same sex couples. The bill, which will be part of broader legislation introduced, includes rights on insurance, taxation, inheritance and other privileges afforded to other Greek citizens. The bill is expected to pass Parliament in Early July. Civil Unions bill signed in Chile April 13th, 2015 From the Washington Blade Chilean President Michelle Bachelet on Monday signed a bill into law that will allow gays and lesbians in the South American country to enter into civil unions. “The civil union law is a vindication in the struggle for sexual diversity rights,” said Bachelet during the signing ceremony that took place at the Presidential Palace in Santiago, the Chilean capital. The bill passed the Chilean Congress in January and then went for review before the nation’s Constitutional Court. Currently there are lawsuits for full marriage equality before the Inter-American Court of Human Rights. Bachelet’s administration is not opposing the lawsuits. Chile gets civil unions January 28th, 2015 A bill that would allow same-sex couples to enter into civil unions in Chile on Wednesday received final approval in the South American country’s Congress. The Chilean Senate approved the measure by a 25-6 vote margin with three abstentions. The bill passed in the country’s House of Representatives by a 78-9 vote margin. “A historic step against discrimination and for the advancement of human rights has taken place today with the passage of the civil unions bill,” said the Movement for Homosexual Integration and Liberation, a Chilean LGBT advocacy group, in a statement. President Michelle Bachelet has said she will sign the bill — under which unmarried heterosexual couples would also receive legal recognition — into law. Malta passes civil unions April 15th, 2014 The Maltese parliament legalized same-sex unions and gay adoption on Monday in a 37-0 vote, signaling a major change in social policy for a conservative country where Catholicism is the state religion. “Malta is now more liberal and more European, and it has given equality to all its people,” Labour Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said. The opposition Nationalist Party abstained from the vote, saying that although it supports civil unions, it has doubts about adoption rights for gay couples. The bill now goes to the President for a formal approval at which time Malta will become the southernmost part of Europe to recognize same-sex relationships. From what I glean from their local press, they are rather proud of themselves for this move. As they should be. UPDATE: The opposition party was anxious that their abstention was not seen as opposition to civil unions or even necessarily as an absolute opposition to adoption, but rather that they opposed that the issues were addressed together. They proposed a constitutional amendment to prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, which both parties supported. Civil unions are coming to Malta April 2nd, 2014 Malta is tiny dot in the Mediterranean Sea south of Sicily. Last September the legislature introduced a bill to provide civil unions which would have all the rights and responsibilities as marriage (including adoption). On February 25th the bill passed committee and now awaits the final third reading before becoming law. The bill has been on hold since that time due to refusal by the President to sign the bill. (Times of Malta) Times of Malta reported this morning that the government had postponed the final approval of the Civil Unions Bill as the President had informally told Dr Muscat that he was not willing to sign it into law. The Bill has been awaiting third reading for five weeks. It would then need to be signed by the President before becoming law. The government is now waiting until President George Abela’s term of office ends on April 4. Although the incoming President is among the roughly 98% of the half million population that is Catholic, she has no problem signing the bill. Dr Abela will be succeeded by Family and Social Solidarity Minister Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca who, despite being a staunch Catholic and having opposed divorce, has made it clear she has no problem signing the Bill. Soon after being nominated for the presidency, Ms Coleiro Preca said since this Bill was an electoral commitment made by the government before the last election she had no problem with it. The deputy prime minister has promised that the bill will be given its final vote “soon”. To the best of my knowledge, no provision of falcons is required as a condition of the bill. Chinchilla signs Accidental Civil Unions bill July 5th, 2013 The bill which passed the Costa Rica legislature this week which may (or may not) allow for same-sex civil unions has been signed. (La Nacion) “Ya fue firmada y se ordenó la publicación”, dijo ayer el ministro de Comunicación, Carlos Roverssi, con respecto a la ley que, a criterio de algunos diputados y activistas pro derechos gais, podría validar las uniones homosexuales. “It was signed and ordered its publication”, said yesterday the Minister of Communication, Carlos Roverssi, with respect to the law that, in the opinion of some deputies and gay rights activists, could validate homosexual unions. Inquiries have been filed with the nation’s courts to determine whether rights, benefits and obligations of marriage will be granted to same-sex couples. Costa Rica President will sign accidental Civil Unions bill July 4th, 2013 After legislators “accidentally” passed a law that includes language that could open a path to same-sex civil unions in the Central American country, President Laura Chinchilla said on Wednesday that she would not veto it, as some lawmakers have urged. “No, we’re going to go forward and will sign this law. We understand that the debate is over how some interpret the law and this alone is not sufficient for the executive to veto the law,” Chinchilla told reporters, according to a video posted by AmeliaRueda.com. There will likely be a court challenge to the meaning of the bill, but it looks promising. Prior to this legislation, the law stated that common law marriage was only between a man and a woman. This struck that provision, replacing it with “without discrimination against to human dignity”. Civil Unions accidentally passed in Costa Rica July 3rd, 2013 If this actually becomes law, it will be the quirkiest means by which same-sex couples have become recognized. Conservative members of the legislature rallied around a bill, thinking that it dealt with youth and family. It did, just not in the way they supposed. (Tico Times) Costa Rica’s Legislative Assembly on Monday passed a measure – by accident – that could legalize same-sex civil unions as part of a larger bill, lawmakers noted on Tuesday. Conservative lawmakers voted for the bill’s passage without recognizing the included language that could be interpreted to change the definition of marriage, according to the daily La Nación. Lawmakers are calling on President Laura Chinchilla to veto the bill they just voted for. Costa Rica is between 15% and 20% evangelical Christian and the populace strongly opposes equality. Next Step: civil union states June 26th, 2013 The overturn of DOMA3 provides a number of benefits for citizens of the marriage equality states. But it simultaneously creates a situation of discrimination for those who live in civil union states. Before today same-sex couples in New Jersey, for example, had all of the same rights as married couples in New York. That is to say, both were afforded all of the marriage rights and obligations that a state confers but none of the federal rights or obligations. Now, however, New York same-sex couples can avail themselves of a whole host of federal benefits while New Jersey couples remain subjected to a lesser status – not only in name, but in practice. Currently the states with civil unions (or domestic partnerships) are Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, New Jersey, Nevada, and Oregon (Wisconsin offers limited rights). Of these, Colorado, Nevada, and Oregon are banned by state constitution from offering equal marriage status to same-sex couples. Which leaves our next battlegrounds to be Hawaii, Illinois, and New Jersey. In Hawaii, the legislature has been either voting down (or letting die) marriage equality bills, including one submitted in January of this year. However, this changes the picture and it is likely that marriage will finally come to the state which brought the issue to the nation’s attention. Illinois’ speaker of the House let die a marriage bill just last month. Equality is likely when the House reconvenes in November. But New Jersey will be the interesting battle. Governor Christie vetoed a marriage bill in February 2012. But he has also supported civil unions and asserted that “discrimination should not be tolerated”. Although marriage and civil unions simply are not equal, his position was not necessarily contradictory before today. Now, however, a state can decide if federal benefits should be afforded to their gay citizens. Should the legislature send Christie another marriage bill – and I anticipate that they will – he will have to decide whether he opposes unequal treatment or whether he supports tradition and the teachings of his church. And as Christie has presidential aspirations, this might be the first indicator as to whether the Republican Party can acclimate to the new reality. The Era of Civil Unions Is Coming To An End May 17th, 2013 Remember when Civil Unions were the viable alternative to marriage equality? Robert Jones and Daniel Cox of the Public Religion Research Institute explain that those days are quickly drawing to a close: The changing political composition of civil union supporters shows that the center of gravity of this debate has shifted significantly. The civil union option has moved from being a middle way dominated by political moderates a decade ago to one that is, today, most attractive to political conservatives. And looking ahead, there is evidence that the civil union option may have a limited future, at least if younger Americans are any indication. When given a three-way choice, civil unions are the least popular option among Millennials (Americans born after 1980). Only slightly more than 1-in-10 (13%) Millennials prefer civil unions, while 67% say they support allowing gay and lesbian people to marry, and 15% oppose any legal recognition of a gay couple’s relationship. Civil Unions come to Colorado May 1st, 2013 At Midnight, Anna Sher and Fran Simon became the first couple in Colorado to become civil unioned (civilly unioned?). They were one couple of many that have been waiting for a long time to have the state recognize their relationship and it is a joyous day. Mazel Tov! Video: Seminar for Coloradans considering a civil union April 18th, 2013 Yesterday our state equality org One Colorado held a webinar / conference call to help educate Coloradans on civil unions, which will be issued starting May 1st. The event covered issues from navigating paperwork to conceiving children once a civil union is established. Several staffers from One Colorado spoke as well as estate law and family law experts from the Colorado Bar Association. Although this was originally a live, for record purposes I produced a video of the event couples can use in the future if they are considering entering into a civil union here in Colorado.
One third of American adults are obese. Their BMI are over normal readings based on their age, height and weight. The cause of obesity is over eating and inactivity. Of the varied disease related to obesity, glaucoma is one of them but not as popular as diabetes and hypertension. Glaucoma is one of the disease of the eye. The eye being almost made up of fluid, need fluid pressure to be at optimum levels. When build up of fluid between the cornea and the lens of the eye is experienced, pressure on the eyeball is sustained. The pressure affects tiny blood vessels which renders the person with a blurred vision. If the pressure build up is not cured, it will continue stressing the eyeball sometimes causing blindness. Glaucoma is also hereditary. One is more prone of developing it if someone in the family has it. A stressful life also hastens it. Stressed people find themselves gasping for air. Shallow breathing all throughout the day will render organs oxygen deficient. Organs won’t be able to function well. Poor nutrition is another culprit in increasing risk of glaucoma. The eye tissue needs vitamins to keep it healthy. The eyes are one of the important organs used during our waking hours which is almost more than half the day. Fruits and vegetables good for the eyes are rich in vitamin A and C. Poor digestion often lead to eye disease. Even if a person eats food rich in nutrients for the eye, absorption is usually the next problem. Food cannot be digested if the stomach lacks the acids for it. Over medication of anti-biotics usually lead to the degredation of these stomach acids. Other eye diseases that can hasten with obesity are age-related macular degeneration making reading details difficult. Cataracts cloud the eye vision and though an age related disease can be hastened by the stress of obesity. Meanwhile, diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness in diabetic patients. The increase in body fluid pressure in obese persons endangers their eye with glaucoma. Persons who suffer from this are advised to lose weight before they totally lose their eyesight. Different weight loss programs are made available to obese patients. Even opthalmologists would recommend weight loss that will help ease off pressure of fluids on the eyeball. Exercise will be helpful to decrease weight but for patients who suffer from glaucoma, doctors must be consulted before choosing a specific exercise. The exercise must be heavy enough to put some sweats but light enough so as not to bring pressure to eye fluids. Strain on the eye will risk the outbreak of small veins. Exercises like weight lifting will put too much pressure on the eyes and therefore is not a good physical activity for weight loss. All in all fruit diet can help stabilize the fluid pressure in the eye. Carrots are good sources of Vitamins that eyes need. It has a lot of anti-oxidants that can secure the eyes from bad bacteria as well. Taking care of weight levels is beneficial to the eyes and to other organs in general. Weight loss management programs essentially take care of the whole body and being of a person. It’s very hard not to have good eyesight. The eyes help us to see, to have balance, to communicate and deliver emotions. These organs are windows to the soul. They are more than enough inspiration to get oneself a weight loss program and become successful in it.
This interactive tutorial requires Flash Download Flash or View tutorial content in non-interactive format. BRAIN RULE RUNDOWN Rule #4: We don't pay attention to boring things. - What we pay attention to is profoundly influenced by memory. Our previous experience predicts where we should pay attention. Culture matters too. Whether in school or in business, these differences can greatly affect how an audience perceives a given presentation. - We pay attention to things like emotions, threats and sex. Regardless of who you are, the brain pays a great deal of attention to these questions: Can I eat it? Will it eat me? Can I mate with it? Will it mate with me? Have I seen it before? - The brain is not capable of multi-tasking. We can talk and breathe, but when it comes to higher level tasks, we just can’t do it. - Driving while talking on a cell phone is like driving drunk. The brain is a sequential processor and large fractions of a second are consumed every time the brain switches tasks. This is why cell-phone talkers are a half-second slower to hit the brakes and get in more wrecks. - Workplaces and schools actually encourage this type of multi-tasking. Walk into any office and you’ll see people sending e-mail, answering their phones, Instant Messaging, and on MySpace—all at the same time. Research shows your error rate goes up 50% and it takes you twice as long to do things. - When you’re always online you’re always distracted. So the always online organization is the always unproductive organization.
Great Florida Birding Trail “signs” on in Panhandle Debbie and five other members of her troop had come to the refuge for a sign-dedication ceremony to celebrate the installation of the Great Florida Birding Trail road signs erected across the Panhandle during December and January. Afterwards, birding experts from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) led the girls and other birding enthusiasts on a wagon ride through the hiking trails in the refuge. The tour made it clear why the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge was chosen as one of the sites for the Great Florida Birding Trail. During the two-hour ride, 44 species of birds were spotted, including a bald eagle and a clapper rail hiding in the reeds of the marsh. Several species of heron and ibis, along with green-winged and blue-winged teals, were seen. The girls were excited to see ospreys flying overhead, since many of them had voted to make the osprey the new state bird. The Florida Panhandle offers outstanding birding experiences and fewer crowds, with sought-after species such as the red-cockaded woodpecker, swallow-tailed and Mississippi kites, snowy plover, Swainson’s warbler, Sprague’s pipit and a remarkable diversity of winter visitors (including hummingbirds) not typically found in the peninsula. The Panhandle’s coastline is an important migration corridor for waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds and birds of prey, as the Girl Scouts from Tallahassee discovered on their first birding tour. Officials with the FWC, which oversees the birding trail, commemorated the day by thanking the many individuals who have made the trail the success it is today. Attending the sign-dedication ceremony prior to the tour was Wakulla County Commissioner George Green. “I feel honored to be here today,” Green said. “We’re very happy to be a partner in this project and promise to help the Great Florida Birding Trail in any way we can.” Mark Kiser, who oversees the Great Florida Birding Trail for the FWC, emphasized the importance of the partners who help make the trail possible. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service runs the refuge, and David Moody, refuge ranger, spoke about the importance of providing great birding sites. “Birding folks are a dedicated bunch, and they travel and enjoy this part of the state,” he said. “The refuge provides lots of opportunities to see wading birds, raptors and migratory birds, and we appreciate the partnership we have with the FWC.” Kiser also noted that Audubon of Florida played an important role in the creation of the Great Florida Birding Trail. He introduced a former employee of the FWC who helped bring the trail to fruition. Julie Wraithmell now works for Audubon of Florida as the wildlife policy coordinator, where she continues to be a strong supporter of the trail. “I thank the FWC for its commitment to wildlife viewers,” Wraithmell said. “There’s a strong resiliency of wildlife viewing dollars, especially in rural communities. Unlike other popular destinations in Florida, this place is different every time I visit. In the winter, there are bald eagle nests, and in the spring, swallow-tailed kites feed over the refuge.” Jerrie Lindsey, director of the FWC’s Office of Recreation Services, spoke about the economic benefits of wildlife viewing, noting that Wakulla County is home to seven sites on the Great Florida Birding Trail. “Birding is big business in Florida, and the Great Florida Birding Trail is an integral part of the Sunshine State’s $5.2 billion wildlife viewing industry,” Lindsey said. “More people travel to Florida to see wildlife than to any other state.” The Great Florida Birding Trail is a conservation program initiated by the FWC to support the rapidly expanding activity of bird watching. More than 485 exceptional sites throughout Florida have been chosen, based on their quality, and compiled into trail guides representing four geographic regions. St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, one of the Panhandle’s gateway sites, along with the Big Lagoon State Park in Pensacola, provides extensive trail-related resources, with loaner optics available on site. They also act as hubs of regional birding information. Field guides in both English and Spanish are provided to enable visitors to identify which birds they are viewing. Additional materials for beginning bird watchers also are available at each gateway site. The girls of Girl Scout Troop 854 will not soon forget the cold winter day they rode on a wagon to view some of the most beautiful birds in the world. The tour was just one of the activities associated with earning the Girl Scouts’ “Your Outdoor Surroundings” badge, and becoming life-long wildlife viewers is one of the rewards. To find out more about the Great Florida Birding Trail and to access maps for all four regions in Florida, go to www.FloridaBirdingTrail.com.
The Evolution, Utility, and Electric Heater Price Breakdown In a world where innovation has revolutionized everyday living, the electric heater has emerged as an unsung hero. This unassuming device, often taken for granted, has a fascinating history and a significant impact on our lives, both in terms of comfort and energy efficiency. This biography delves into the story of the electric heater, its evolution, and a glance at electric heater prices. The Birth of Comfort and Efficiency The birth of the electric heater can be traced back to the early 20th century when the need for an efficient heating solution arose. Inventors and engineers began experimenting with electrical elements, seeking a means to harness electrical energy for warmth. The first breakthrough came in 1912 when Albert Marsh introduced the nickel-chromium alloy, known as Nichrome, which became the critical component in electric heating elements. From Radiators to Compact Powerhouses Early electric heaters were bulky and inefficient, resembling large radiators. As technology advanced, these heaters transformed into compact, portable devices that could be used in homes and offices. Electric heaters quickly gained popularity for their simplicity and ability to provide instant warmth. The adoption of thermostats and timer functions further enhanced their convenience. Electric Heater Price: An Investment in Comfort As electric heaters became more sophisticated, so did their price tags. However, when considering the comfort and efficiency they offer, the cost becomes an investment. Electric heater prices vary depending on the type and features. Convection heaters, fan heaters, radiant heaters, and oil-filled heaters are some common types to choose from. The pricing can range from budget-friendly options for around $20 to high-end models that can go over $200, but these differences come with unique features to suit different needs. Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact One of the key advantages of electric heaters is their energy efficiency. Unlike traditional heating systems, which often lose heat through ducts or pipes, electric heaters directly convert electrical energy into heat. This efficiency not only saves on energy costs but also reduces the environmental impact, making electric heaters a green choice for heating. Safety Features for Peace of Mind Electric heaters have evolved to incorporate an array of safety features. Overheating protection, tip-over switches, and cool-to-touch surfaces ensure that users can enjoy the warmth without worrying about accidents. These advancements have made electric heaters a secure heating solution for homes with children and pets. Future Innovations and Sustainable Practices The electric heater industry is continually evolving, with manufacturers exploring sustainable practices and integrating intelligent technologies. In recent years, electric heaters have become more energy-efficient, with some models featuring energy-saving modes and intelligent controls that allow users to customize their heating experience. Electric Heater: A Quiet Hero The electric heater might not be the most glamorous invention, but it has transformed the way we experience comfort and warmth in our homes and workplaces. From the early days of Nichrome to today’s cutting-edge technologies, it has come a long way. As we assess the electric heater price, we must remember that it is more than just an appliance – it is a companion through chilly winters and a symbol of innovation and efficiency. In conclusion, the electric heater has quietly shaped the way we live, offering efficient heating solutions, contributing to energy conservation, and adapting to the changing needs of modern living. It’s a testament to human ingenuity and the quest for a more comfortable and sustainable future.
On Sunday we visited the Massachusetts Audubon Society’s wildlife sanctuary at Wachusett Meadow, in Princeton, MA, where I got a first-hand lesson on how the environment changes over time. We used to go to this old farm for picnics with the kids when they were small but had not been back for decades. A lot can happen in decades, as I found out. Goals for Wachusett Meadow I had two goals on this trip: - Photograph the gnarly trunk of a huge sugar maple, a tree with hundreds of years of history written in its bark, and, - Take the trail through the red maple swamp on wooden walkways over the water before the black flies and mosquitoes hatched. I started at the Visitor Center by looking at a trail map and wondering why I did not see either attractions listed. Worse, I did not see any enormous old tree where I remembered the sugar maple standing. A volunteer wandered over and asked if he could help so I explained what I was looking for. This is what he said. The Sugar Maple — RIP The big old tree needed some help. Branches had grown so heavy that they were splitting and dropping. They called in an arborist to help save the tree and he cabled the branches in an elaborate support web. This helped the tree but had an unfortunate side effect. As the tallest object on the hillside, the metal-reinforced tree drew lightning. The sugar maple took hit after hit but finally succumbed to the multiple lightning bolts. That happened years ago. All that is left is a rotting, vine-covered stump. One photo opportunity bit the dust. The Swamp Trail Closed As for the swamp trail, well, that requires a swamp. After the people of Massachusetts voted to ban leg-hold traps in 1996, the fur trappers moved elsewhere and the beaver proliferated. It turns out that rabbits have nothing on Castor Canadensis when it comes to reproduction. In a few short years sighting a beaver went from a rare wildlife event to finding them everywhere. Doing what they do best, and drawn by the sound of running water, the beaver population flooded roads, back yards, and basements. Here, they moved in to the stream that went through the swamp and dammed it, creating a beaver pond. This body of water goes through a predictable cycle and has a limited lifetime. Here’s how Nancy Marie Brown describes it in the Penn State News: “Beaver ponds are active for about 30 years. The first stage (which Prosser calls “new active”) begins when a stream is dammed and a pond forms. The trees and bushes, their roots drowned, give shade and leafy cover. Eventually they die and rot (or are cut down and eaten, depending on their size and species). Then the beavers must travel further afield to forage, and the dam is widened and the pond enlarged, during this “old active” stage. Trunks and stumps dot the pond, but few shade trees remain except on the edges. The pond is carved with channels, a mix of open water and shrubby hummocks. After the beavers leave the “abandonment” stage—the dam eventually breaks and the water subsides. Grasses and shrubs recolonize the pondflats, and slowly it returns to woodland.” Guess what? In the decades since we had visited, the beaver had taken the red maple swamp through the whole cycle, from first dam to old active, and moved on. They left a classic “beaver meadow” behind. The cool green swamp I remembered had been replaced by open space with hummocks and brush but no trees. The rangers closed the trail. The Hill Trail to the Glacial Erratic Fortunately, I found lots to see at Wachusett Meadow. While my husband wandered around taking pictures, I hiked uphill past the farm pond and along the upland hayfield’s edge. Occasionally I hopped from side to side to avoid soaking my sneakers in seeps of cold spring water. (I failed. It’s been a very wet spring.) At the top, I veered off into the woods to find the Glacial Boulder. This huge chuck of granite, known as a glacial erratic, rests all by itself on the hillside where the retreating glacier dropped it. Glacial erratics vary in size from small rocks to huge boulders and this one is the size of a recreational vehicle. I walked all around it and got some good photos before heading back downhill. On the way, I stopped to meditate on a bench near the old sugar maple stump. I sat quietly listening to the bird songs around me until a hiker passed nearby with his music playing so loudly that I could hear it through his earbuds. No birdsongs for him. I joined my husband and we sat and read in the warm sunshine until it was time to leave. Find a Wildlife Sanctuary Near You We have visited many Mass Audubon Wildlife sanctuaries like Wachusett Meadow and they are all interesting in different ways and well maintained. You can see a map of them here. The state has so many, you should be able to find one near you. You never know what you will see but, if you see something you like, don’t wait decades to return. Nature moves on without you.
They’re going to have to find another name for wastewater pretty soon. This much maligned byproduct of household and industry has been quietly making a name for itself as a recoverable resource. One of the latest examples comes from South Africa, where gas and oil company, Sasol, has partnered with GE Power & Water to develop a new system for providing a high level of treatment for industrial wastewater that also recovers biogas for power generation. The new system, called Anaerobic Membrane Bioreactor Technology (AnMBR), is transferrable to other industries, so let’s take a look and see how it works. Recovering biogas from wastewater Sasol has been working on the process for some time and is currently designing a second-generation version. The basic idea is to corral the organic material in industrial effluent from fossil fuel processes, and convert it directly into a methane-rich biogas. The conversion process is carried out by the natural process of digestion, as anaerobic microorganisms feast on the organic material in the effluent (anaerobic refers to organisms that thrive without oxygen). That’s a step above conventional treatment processes for the industry, which typically involve converting organic material to carbon dioxide. In addition to producing a high value byproduct, the AnMBR system also results in an 80 percent drop in the amount of waste biosolids to be disposed of. ZeeWeed is part of GE’s Ecomagination portfolio of advanced technologies. It filters out suspended solids and microorganisms with a high degree of efficiency, one result of which is a nutrient-dense waste stream that makes Sasol’s wastewater-to-gas process more cost effective. About that fossil fuel thing… The new process is a means to an end for Sasol, which is ultimately interested in boosting the profitability and marketability of fossil fuel conversion processes. We’re not particularly enthused about that angle (to say the least). Strictly speaking, the biogas resulting from the Sasol process is not renewable, but since the technology is transferable, it does illustrate how continued investment in fossil fuel R&D can yield an overall payoff for improving the sustainability of industrial processes in other sectors. That’s something to keep in mind, moving forward. Regardless of how fast or how thorough the global transition to renewable energy is, fossil fuels will continue to be part of the picture indefinitely. Just look at the history of our most primitive fuel, firewood, which has been around for more than a few millennia and continues to be a significant feature despite competition from other, newer fuels. Putting wastewater to work The idea of recovering methane from industrial wastewater is relatively new, but a similar methane recovery process for household wastewater has been in use at municipal treatment plants for decades. Municipal biogas has been primarily used to power equipment on site, and that continues to be an important function. Ameresco, for example, is building a wastewater-to-biogas facility for Philadelphia that is expected to slash electricity costs for the facility. More recently, the train has left the station, so to speak, as treatment facilities find off site markets for their biogas. Ameresco provides another example in San Antonio, which recently became the first municipality in the U.S. to connect its biogas to a commercial pipeline. An example of a direct business-to-biogas partnership comes from Microsoft, which has been developing a demonstration facility in Wyoming that uses biogas from a nearby treatment plant to power its data center. Along an entirely different path, Google has partnered up with a local wastewater treatment facility in Georgia to use treated wastewater as a natural cooling agent for its Douglas County data center. It’s also worth noting that the Obama Administration has been encouraging dairy farms and other livestock operators to invest in manure-to-biogas systems. Aside from the energy recovery aspect, the process also resolves environmental issues related to manure disposal by rendering “active” biosolids into an inert material that can be used as an eco-friendly fertilizer or soil enhancer. [Image: Sewer by Les Chatfield]
Itō Hirobumi, in full (from 1907) Kōshaku (Duke [or Prince]) Itō Hirobumi, original name Toshisuke (born October 14, 1841, Suō province [now in Yamaguchi prefecture], Japan—died October 26, 1909, Harbin, Manchuria, China), Japanese elder statesman (genro) and premier (1885–88, 1892–96, 1898, 1900–01), who played a crucial role in building modern Japan. He helped draft the Meiji constitution (1889) and brought about the establishment of a bicameral national Diet (1890). He was created a marquess in 1884 and a duke (or prince) in 1907. Itō’s father was an adopted son of a modest samurai (warrior) family in the Chōshū domain of western Japan, and Itō grew up amid convulsive political conditions surrounding the decline of the Tokugawa shogunate—which had governed Japan since 1603—and the rise of Western influence in the country. He played a minor role in the events leading to the Meiji Restoration (1868), the movement that overthrew the shogunate and reestablished the formal ruling authority of the emperor. This brought him into contact with men like Kido Takayoshi, who was to become one of the great leaders of early Meiji Japan and who was Itō’s most important mentor in those years. Itō’s talents were apparent even before the restoration, and the leaders of Chōshū sent him to England (along with his friend Inoue Kaoru) to study Western naval science (1863). His connections with Kido and Ōkubo Toshimichi, the other giant of early Meiji Japan, enabled him to undertake government assignments to the United States and the Iwakura Mission to Europe (1870, 1871–73) to study and work on matters as diverse as taxation and budgetary systems and treaty revision. Rise to power His political career changed decisively when Ōkubo, the most powerful man in the government, was assassinated in 1878, and Itō succeeded him as minister of home affairs. His advancement brought him into conflict with the equally talented and ambitious statesman Ōkuma Shigenobu. In a series of masterful political strokes, Itō forced Ōkuma and his supporters out of the government in 1881 and persuaded the government to adopt a constitution; by 1889 the emperor had proclaimed it, and in 1890 the national Diet was established. Preparations for constitutional government were made with utmost seriousness. Itō, by then the most important person in the Meiji government, and other officials spent nearly one and a half years (1882–83) in Europe, notably in Germany, studying under leading constitutional scholars. The Meiji constitution, Itō’s greatest handiwork, has been criticized for perpetuating authoritarian rule because the guarantees of civil rights and the Diet’s powers were hedged by restrictions. Actually, given the Meiji leaders’ samurai background and the tense domestic and foreign problems they faced, the unprecedented acknowledgment in writing of basic rights and the establishment of the Diet were progressive and enlightened acts. It should also be noted that neither Itō nor any of the Meiji leaders ever pointed to these tensions and difficulties as an excuse for reverting to tight authoritarian control. Itō’s preeminence continued in the 1890s. In mid decade, as prime minister, he helped Japan attain two important successes. The first was an agreement with Great Britain (signed in 1894) for doing away with extraterritoriality by 1899 (i.e., from that date British nationals in Japan would be subject to Japanese law). That pact was followed by others with other major Western countries. The second achievement was Japan’s victory over China in 1895; both accomplishments were among the first clear signs that Japan, alone among non-Western countries, had achieved success in modernization and a weightier role in East Asian affairs. Domestically, Itō did not fare as well. He had felt, along with other genro, that party politicians were incapable of dealing dispassionately with Japan’s welfare and destiny; and, indeed, the powers guaranteed by the Meiji constitution enabled the political parties to impede government programs in the Diet. Itō unhappily, but with characteristic flexibility, continually worked out compromises with the parties until by 1900 no cabinet could be formed without their tacit consent. From the start the parties had been cooperating with the government in return for cabinet positions and laws favouring party growth. Itō made one last move to salvage the situation by leaving the government and forming the Rikken Seiyūkai (“Friends of Constitutional Government”), which he based on an older antigovernment party, the Kenseitō (“Constitutional Association”). The Seiyūkai became the first party to control an absolute majority in the House of Representatives during a Diet session, which led Itō to believe that he had finally created the right conditions for smooth passage of government programs. He did not count on the obstructive tactics of the House of Peers, however, whose conservative members were unhappy with Itō’s alliance with the parties. Ironically, Itō had originally created the House of Peers to balance what he considered the less-than-responsible House of Representatives. Finally, embittered with the knowledge that dealing with party members, each with his own constituency to answer to, was infinitely more difficult and distasteful than working with a handful of genro, all of the same background and inspiration, he resigned as president of the Rikken Seiyūkai in 1903. But Itō paid for having broken genro ranks; soon afterward Yamagata Aritomo, founder of the modern Japanese army, became the leading power among the powerful genro. Itō’s legacy, however, cannot be denied, for he made cooperation between high-ranking bureaucrats and party politicians respectable, which provided an alternative to the unremitting and unproductive polarization of these two groups. Moreover, the continued commitment of the other genro to the Meiji constitution made party growth inevitable. In 1905, following the Russo-Japanese War, Itō was sent to Korea to negotiate the treaty that turned Korea into a Japanese protectorate. He returned there as resident general (1906–09), where he pursued a gradualist policy of economic and bureaucratic reform. However, he increasingly sought to suppress Korean nationalism (including engineering King Kojong’s abdication), and he could not prevent the thrust toward annexing Korea favoured by other leaders in Japan. In October 1909 he was shot in Harbin in North China by An Chung-gŭn, a member of the Korean independence movement. His last words on being told that he was the victim of a political assassination were, “Baka na yatsu ja!” (“He is a fool!”). Itō probably meant that An had killed the one Japanese leader who had a moderating and sympathetic approach for Japan’s Korea policy. Indeed, Itō’s assassination was a factor contributing to Japan’s annexation of Korea in 1910. Itō was honoured with a state funeral. Despite his unquestioned contributions to the modernization of Japan, he has never been first in the hearts of his countrymen. The Japanese more often have favoured their romantic heroes, usually losers of great military causes. His private life also prevented his enshrinement in ethics textbooks as a paradigm for young Japanese. He is remembered instead for a boast: “Drunk, I (relax) with my head on a beauty’s lap; awaken (refreshed), I grip the reins of power.” His violent death was also ironic: he was never the strong-willed statesman that Ōkubo, Ōkuma, and Yamagata were. He sought the compromiser’s role, the harmonious solution. His enduring monument was the creation of a viable constitutional system. It enabled the Japanese to effect orderly, evolutionary, peaceful political change accompanied by an ever-widening scope for meaningful popular participation.
Friedrich Wilhelm von Haugwitz \|Death:\|\|Died in Köronitz\| Son of Georg Carl, Graf von Haugwitz and Anna Helene von Haugwitz \|Managed by:\|\|Private User\| Matching family tree profiles for Friedrich Wilhelm, Graf von Haugwitz About Friedrich Wilhelm, Graf von Haugwitz Friedrich Wilhelm Graf von von Haugwitz - Österreichischer Staatsmann, * 11.12.1702, † 11.9.1765 Knönitz (Mähren). (seit 1725 katholisch) - geneall.net... ; de.wikipedia.org... ; deutsche-biographie... ; - britannica.com... ; - Friedrich Wilhelm von Haugwitz, The topic Friedrich Wilhelm von Haugwitz is discussed in the following articles: - relationship to Maria Theresa SECTION: Domestic reforms - Realizing the need for a sizable standing army and in order to maintain one, 'Maria Theresa (Holy Roman empress) accepted the plans of Count Friedrich Wilhelm Haugwitz—the first in a succession of remarkable men of intellect she was to draw into her council. In the face of the opposition of many noblemen, she managed to reduce drastically (except in Hungary) the powers of the various dominions’ estates, which... SECTION: First reforms, 1748–56 - ...the towns). These bodies negotiated annually with the ruler regarding the amount of taxes (i.e., the contribution) that each crown land would pay to the central government. Following the advice of Friedrich Wilhelm, Graf (count) von Haugwitz, a Silesian who had fled the Prussians in 1741, Maria Theresa proposed negotiating with each diet only every 10 years, setting the amount to be collected...
The Role of Phonics in Invitaciones by Margarita Calderón, Alan Crawford, John J. Pikulski, and Tina Saldivar Recent research in both English and Spanish substantiates the importance of well-designed phonics instruction, and has specific implications for the teaching of reading in Spanish. The following research conclusions guided the development of Houghton Mifflin's newly published Spanish reading program, Invitaciones. Based on the available research, Houghton Mifflin incorporated into Invitaciones the following essential components of an effective program for development of word identification skills and reading fluency: Phonics is an essential part of a comprehensive approach to the teaching of reading. Because of the close correspondence between phoneme and grapheme in Spanish, phonics is especially effective in this language. - Phonics instruction needs to be systematic, following a logical sequence from simple to complex elements. Because Spanish is a phonetically regular language, the appropriate sequence of instruction is different from English. Spanish phonics should begin with vowels, progressing to simple consonants and open syllables, and then to closed syllables and more complex elements such as blends and diphthongs. - Phonics instruction in Spanish should emphasize syllables as the natural elements of Spanish word structure. Children should have many opportunities to explore words through combining, segmenting, and substituting syllables in a process analogous to the exploration of onsets and rimes, or word families, in English. - Phonics instruction should be explicit and direct; incidental approaches are less effective. - Phonics instruction must be based on Spanish usage that is familiar to students. Literature and examples should focus on culturally appropriate material, such as poems and songs, that reflect the language students know. In addition, instruction must be meaningful, lively, and engaging; phonics should not be equated with repetitious drill or the mindless completion of worksheets. - In order for children to gain full use of phonics skills they need guidance in integrating them with other word identification skills and in strategically and fluently applying those skills. - In order for children to gain full use of phonics skills they need many opportunities to apply them to functional and interesting reading and writing activities. - While the development of phonics and other word identification skills is essential and necessary for skillful, mature reading, it is not sufficient; skillful mature reading must also build upon language, vocabulary, and concept development as well as a variety of thinking skills. - Phonological/Phonemic Awareness -- In order to learn to read an alphabetical language like Spanish, children must grasp what is called the alphabetic principle--that printed words are not an arbitrary sequence of letters to be memorized, but that letters represent a limited number of speech sounds that combine to form spoken words. Young children do not intuitively grasp this principle nor do they think of spoken words as having any dimension other than meaning. Phonological awareness refers to children's conscious awareness of the fact that spoken words are composed of identifiable units including syllables and sounds (phonemes). It also refers to children's ability to manipulate (segment, blend, substitute) those sound units. In the Kindergarten level of Invitaciones children are taught concepts of rhyme, beginning sounds, and syllables, the most fundamental phonological awareness skills in Spanish. They also become proficient in blending and segmenting syllables. The ability to blend and segment syllables orally prepares children to learn to decode and encode syllables as they learn to read. Literature at the Kindergarten level focuses on well-known and culturally appropriate rhymes, poems, and songs, so that children develop phonological awareness using materials that are linguistically familiar. In Grade 1, phonological and phonemic skills are extended and refined. In the context of the literature, children are systematically taught the open syllables made by combining each consonant with the five vowels. Children learn to combine , segment, and sustitute syllables as the basic elements of Spanish word structure. As they encounter words they cannot read, they are taught to use their knowledge to blend syllables into meaningful, spoken words. Segmenting the sounds of the spoken words and representing them with letters are taught and practiced frequently as children grow in their spelling abilities - Familiarity with Print -- There are several dimensions of familiarity with print including: Letter Names/Shapes -- Knowledge of letter names is highly associated with success in beginning reading. In Invitaciones children learn to recognize letters accurately and quickly. Letter names are, in most cases, good clues to letter sound associations. Being able to form letters quickly is important for writing, which reinforces and extends phonological awareness, knowledge of letter/sound associations, and familiarity with the form of written and spoken words. Concepts of Print -- Children become familiar with concepts of letter, word, sentence, and the relationships of printed and spoken words. They develop the understanding that there is a correspondence between the number of words printed and the number of words read, and they are taught to use this concept to track print. High Frequency Vocabulary -- To begin reading fluently, young readers must recognize many common words immediately. In Invitaciones, children are taught to recognize accurately and quickly the most common words in Spanish. They have frequent opportunities to practice these words in reading decodable text and in their writing. - Systematic, Explicit Phonics -- Phonics instruction in Invitaciones is systematic in that it introduces children first to the simplest Spanish letter/sound relationships -- vowels and regular consonants. Consonants are introduced in a sequence that follows the natural order of language acquisition, beginning with m. Children learn the open syllables made by combining each consonant with the vowels. Subsequently they are introduced to closed syllables and the more complex and variable phonic elements, such as hard and soft c, silent h, diphthongs, and consonant blends. All essential phonic elements are taught by the end of Grade 1 and reviewed and reinforced in each subsequent grade. Phonics instruction is explicit; children are directly and clearly taught about relationships between letters and sounds. They have many opportunities to practice and apply these learnings in a variety of ways, including manipulating letter cards to build words and applying phonics skills to decodable texts and to writing. Through phonics and spelling instruction children develop the ability to segment and substitute syllables and to sound out words by blending letter and syllable sounds from left to right. - Spelling -- In Invitaciones spelling and phonics are integrally related. Phonics elements that are taught in a unit of instruction are reinforced in spelling instruction in the same unit. In spelling lessons, children learn to carefully process the letters and syllables in words from left to right and to segment and blend the sounds they represent. - Vocabulary -- Beyond the initial stages of learning to read, there is a very strong relationship between knowledge of word meanings and reading comprehension. Vocabulary instruction and learning to derive word meanings from context begin in kindergarten and continue throughout Invitaciones. - Fluent Reading -- Decodable text is essential to provide opportunities for children to practice and apply phonic elements in the context of real reading. Invitaciones includes many decodable books for practice with high frequency words and words that use previously taught phonic elements. In addition to a wide variety of reading materials that are part of the program, Invitaciones provides carefully developed reading lists, frequent suggestions to teachers, and extensive communications with the home to encourage the wide independent reading that leads to fluency. - Writing -- Writing offers the opportunity to apply phonics and related spelling knowledge. In shared writing and other writing activities, children learn to think about the sounds in words they want to write and to use phonics skills to represent the sounds. As they proofread their writing, they apply spelling patterns and phonic elements they have been taught. Reading/Language Arts Center \| Education Place \| Copyright © 1998 Houghton Mifflin Company. All Rights Reserved. Terms and Conditions of Use
Paper-I Political Science CSS 2014 Q. No. 2. Critically examine the concept of “Justice” by Plato. Q. No. 3. Discuss in detail the concept of “Raisul Awwal” by Al-Farabi. Q. No. 4. Compare the concept of Millat and Territorial Nationalism by Iqbal. Q. No. 5. Write short NOTES on any TWO of the following: (b) Social Justice Q. No. 6. Discuss “Democratic Political System”. How can it bring even change in the society. Q. No. 7. Discuss the “Political Culture”. Also its importance. Q. No. 8. Write short NOTES on the following: (b) Separation of Power Paper II of Political Science for CSS exams held on 18-02-201 Q. No. 2. Discuss the powers and functions of US Senate. Also explain the concept of Senatorial Courtesy. Q. No. 3. Explain the evolution of British Monarchy with focus on gradual transfer of powers from the Monarch to the Prime Minister. Q. No. 4. Analyze the role of political parties in the post 1958 political system of France. Q. No. 5. Critically analyze the nature of federation in former USSR. Q. No. 6. Elaborate the secular aspect of Turkish Constitution and objectively analyze its impact on Turkish society. Q. No. 7. How Iqbal’s wisdom helped in shaping the intellectual foundations of Pakistan? Q. No. 8. Write NOTES on any TWO of the following: (b) Rahbar in Iran’s Constitution. (c) Impact of Deng Xiaoping’s reforms on China
Cysts in ovaries are formed in one of two ways. The follicles in ovarian tissue - little sacs that carry eggs as they appear and mature fail to release the mature egg into the fallopian tubes to either dissolve or be fertilized. Or else, having released the egg, the follicle wall closes up, thickens, and continues for awhile anyway, to fill up with fluids, blood or other tissue. Ovarian cysts may grow disproportionately large, or multiply, and obstruct not only the normal ovulation and menstruation, but press upon the other organs close by. Discomfort, pain and infection, sometimes from cystic rupture , and consequently, infection and even malignancy, are all possible consequences. Ovarian cysts, whether malign or benign, are usually discovered in course of routine medical examinations. The first steps thereafter are usually path tests, ultrasonic and laparoscopic scans to ascertain their character. If conventional wisdom recommends nothing as radical as surgery but the emptying out of a cyst's contents all the same, aspiration becomes an attractive option. With the imaging and the minimally invasive techniques now available, modern therapy can locate, pierce and draw out a cyst's contents, leaving it to disappear into the surrounding tissue in the normal There is, however, an insurmountable problem with all such procedures. This is that, none of them can guarantee a non-recurrence. While the ovarian cyst aspiration and the other processes can sure enough get rid of the cyst, but there is a good chance that the cyst will re-appear. In fact, this is what happens with a majority of women. It is only holistic remedies that offer a permanent relief from the ovarian cyst syndrome. Natural PCOS treatments approaches all fail because they make the mistake of treating the symptoms and not the real causes. Holistic remedies treat the root causes and eradicated them, and so, the results are permanent.
By the President of the United States of America The American people join Hellenes today in commemorating the 188th anniversary of Greece's independence. As we celebrate the establishment of the Hellenic Republic, we honor the historic contributions of Greeks and Greek-Americans. Americans celebrated the cause of Greek independence during the new nation's earliest years. In 1824, summarizing support for the Greek struggle among the American people, then-Representative Henry Clay declared, "That it is felt with the deepest intensity, expressed in almost every possible form, and that it increases with every new day and passing hour." His words are echoed today as Americans celebrate the anniversary of this struggle for independence. The relationship between Greece and the United States owes much to the vision of democracy and liberty forged in Greece. In constructing a modern democratic framework, our Nation's founders drew upon the immutable principles of the ancient Greeks. All who cherish the ideal of democratic governance are beneficiaries of the Greek legacy. From the literary classics taught in our children's classrooms to the gleaming monuments of our Nation's capital, Greek cultural traditions have also found a home in the United States. In classrooms across the country, many of our students still immerse themselves in the epics of Homer, the dramas of Sophocles, and the philosophical innovations of Plato and Aristotle. Among the Greek-influenced structures in Washington, D.C., our Nation's Capitol Building draws upon the architectural legacy of the ancient Greeks. In recent history, Greece and the United States have stood together to meet the challenges of our times. Greeks and Americans fought for common causes over the course of the 20th century and continue to collaborate in this century, including through membership in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. The strength of the bond between Greece and the United States is exemplified by the Greek-American community, which enriches our Nation with its cultural heritage and helps maintain the living relationship between our countries. On the anniversary of Greece's independence, we celebrate this friendship and look forward to realizing our common goals and aspirations. Now, Therefore, I, Barak Obama, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim March 25, 2009, as "Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy." I call upon the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities. In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.
Did you know that Avocado seeds are packed full of nutrients that can provide several health benefits to the body? In fact, the seeds contain more antioxidants than the avocado fruity fleshes and most fruits, vegetables and healing teas do. The seeds, even have the ability to provide the body with more soluble fiber than any other food available to you at a whole food market, but the benefits do not stop there. Top Benefits Of Eating Avocado Seeds Helps prevent heart disease and strokes Avocado seeds contain nourishing oil that is rich in antioxidants. In fact, 70% of the antioxidants are found in the seed alone and the other 30% are actually in the flesh and skin. Ease swelling in the gastrointestinal tract The super fruit’s seeds are also a great alternative for reducing inflammatory disease within the body. Soothes gastric ulcers the seed contains antioxidants in it known as phenolic compounds. These compounds contain antibacterial and anti-viral properties, which makes the seeds effective at preventing ulcers within the lining of the digestive system. How to prepare: All you have to do to get these seeds into your diet is slice open an avocado, carefully remove the seed, place it into a plastic bag, and crush it with a meat mallet or hammer. After, place the crushed seed into a blender and grind it into a fine powder. Then sprinkle the seed mixture onto meals and eat up to receive the health benefits from this amazing super food. (Visited 883 times, 1 visits today)
Dimming fluorescent lamps is an attractive feature that provides mood and brightness effects as well as having tremendous energy savings potential. Designing a dimmable electronic ballast, however, is a complicated and challenging task. This paper presents an overview for designing a dimming electronic ballast for a T5 35W lamp. Lamp requirements, dimming control methods, and resonant output stage design are all discussed in this paper. A new ballast design software program is also demonstrated which greatly aids with the design of the dimming ballast and generates the necessary schematic and bill of materials for prototyping. Finally, a fully-functional prototype is built, tested and compared against original design results. A fluorescent lamp requires preheating of the filaments, a high ignition voltage to strike, current or power control for dimming, and additional filament heating during low dimming levels. To understand how a dimming fluorescent lamp works, a simple resistive model for the lamp is used (Figure 1). The lamp resistance (Rlamp) is connected between each filament resistor pair (R1, R2, R3 and R4). Figure 1, Resistive lamp model During dimming, the current flowing through the lamp resistance determines the lamp power and brightness. At low brightness levels (typically below 20%), the lamp requires additional heating current through the filament resistors for maintaining the arc. To calculate the equivalent lamp resistance some basic electrical lamp parameters must first be known (Table I). \|\| Filament preheat time \|\| Ignition voltage amplitude to strike the lamp \|\| Lamp power at 100% brightness \|\| Lamp voltage amplitude at 100% brightness \|\| Lamp power at 5% brightness \|\| Lamp voltage amplitude at 5% brightness \|\| Equivalent lamp resistance at 100% brightness \|\| Equivalent lamp resistance at 5% brightness \|\| Cold filament resistances Table I, Typical 35W/T5 lamp requirements The lamp resistance [Ohms] at the corresponding % dimming level is determined from the running lamp power and voltage: P%= Lamp power at % dimming level [Watts] V%= Lamp voltage amplitude at % dimming level [Volts] The lamp manufacturer does not typically specify the filament resistor values so they must be measured directly on the bench across one end of the lamp. The exact location where the arc leaves the filament (hot spot) is not known. For purposes of the model, the hot spot is assumed to be exactly in the middle of each filament, therefore, R1=R2=R3=R4= 1/2 x (total resistance measured across one filament). Also, the filament resistance is a strong function of temperature so the values given are measured at cold.
Sodium restriction is recommended as a treatment for cardiovascular disease. This is based largely on the belief that high sodium diets cause water retention in the extracellular space, and this water retention increases blood volume and with it blood pressure. Animal studies looking at sodium intakes are interesting, but it should never be forgotten that different mammals have differing requirements for minerals and as such not all research is relevant to humans. However, as with humans, rats conserve sodium when pregnant, and this can lead to oedema and swelling. This sequestration of sodium is caused by a decreased excretion and an increased appetite for the mineral, and is necessary to allow haemodilution during pregnancy and to allow some storage of the mineral for late in gestation when the requirement for the mineral increases. Because of the oedema that accompanies the sodium retention, low sodium diets are often recommended during pregnancy for humans. However, it is unclear if these diets are actually beneficial. The effects of dietary sodium restriction has been studied in rats during pregnancy. For example, in one study, pregnant rats were fed a diet containing various concentrations of sodium1 (0.173, 0.067, 0.040 or 0.022 % of food intake), while all other nutrients were maintained at optimal levels to maintain the health of the rats. Rats fed the two lowest sodium diets consumed less feed, gained less weight, displayed altered fluid patterns, had the smallest litters, had fewer live births and had more stillbirths compared to rats fed higher sodium intakes. The number of pups surviving lactation were also fewer in the rats fed the two lowest sodium intakes, and in fact no offspring survived lactation at the lowest sodium intake at all. At 21 days the offspring of the rats were sacrificed and a detailed analysis of their neural development made. The rat pups in the 0.040 % sodium group had lower brain weights, lower brain cholesterol and lower brain RNA compared to rat pups in the other sodium groups. These results suggest that in rats, low sodium diets during pregnancy are detrimental to the health of the offspring and the mothers. Although vilified in the media and mainstream medical establishment, sodium is an essential element and required in gram amounts for human health. It is known that the requirement for sodium increases during pregnancy for valid physiological reasons and so sodium restriction diets may have detrimental effects on human health during this time. One of the problems with the Western diet is that it contains too much sodium and too little potassium. Vegetables and fruits contain more potassium than sodium, and so high quality diets always provide more potassium than sodium, and this balance is required to maintain health. It is the absence of potassium in the presence of high sodium intakes that can lead to health consequences. There is no need to restrict sodium in high quality diets because the sodium and potassium balance is provided at the right levels by the plant foods inherent to such diets. Dr Robert Barrington’s Nutritional Recommendation: If you are having to limit sodium intake because intake it too high, this suggests that you diet is of low quality. Diets high in plant foods provide a naturally correct ratio of potassium to sodium. Evidence suggests that high intakes of sodium when in balance with other minerals are not problematic. Care should be taken when restricting sodium intake during pregnancy as the health consequences may be detrimental.
The rise of information and communication technologies (ICT) has increased the demand for highly-skilled, university-educated, workers at the expense of middle-skilled workers according to new research from the Centre for Economic Performance at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). However, recent technical change has had little effect on low-skilled workers according to the research published in the latest issue of the journal Review of Economics and Statistics. The researchers analysed how the employment and wages of high, medium and low educated workers had changed in 11 countries, including the UK, over 25 years . They found that industries that experienced the fastest growth in ICT also experienced the fastest growth in the demand for the most educated workers and the fastest drops for those in the middle – defined, in the UK, as people who had completed secondary education but not an undergraduate degree. The research also shows that, as industries have increased their use of ICT, the wages, as well as employment, of highly skilled workers have risen relative to middle skilled workers. Technical change accounts for between 15 - 25 percent of the growth in the aggregated wage bill of highly skilled workers . Professor John Van Reenen, Director of the Centre for Economic Performance at LSE and co-author of the paper, said: “We found that there has been a carving out of middle- skill jobs. People in these kinds of jobs, such as administrators or bank clerks, perform lots of routine tasks that can easily be computerised. “In contrast, high and low skilled workers’ roles involve more non-routine tasks – whether they are with brains or brawn. This means that consultants and doctors, as well as cleaners and carers, are much less likely to be replaced by computers.” The researchers found that education plays a key role in the types of job people go into. For example, middle educated workers are over-represented in occupations that require routine mental tasks. In contrast, the most educated workers concentrate disproportionately in occupations that require more non-routine tasks. The least educated workers’ jobs involve less non-routine mental tasks than others, but more non-routine manual tasks. Dr Guy Michaels, Associate Professor of Economics at LSE and co-author of the paper, said: “Young people should not depend on secondary school education alone to secure them a good ‘mid-level’ job in the future. There will be fewer jobs like these, especially those involving routine mental tasks. “Degrees certainly cost more than in the past but, as an investment, they are also more valuable in securing a decent job than 30 years ago.” Notes to Editors: ‘Has ICT polarized skill demand? Evidence from 11 countries over 25 years’ by Guy Michaels, Ashwini Natraj and John Van Reenen is available from the LSE press office The researchers looked at data from the EUKLEMS database from 1980-2004. This provides data on college graduates and separates non college graduates into those with low education and those with middle education. It covers 11 developed economies (UK, US, Japan and nine European countries). Demand for workers of different levels of skill (low, middle, high) was worked out by looking at changes to the employment and fraction of the total wage bill that goes to each group. The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) studies the social sciences in their broadest sense, with an academic profile spanning a wide range of disciplines, from economics, politics and law, to sociology, information systems and accounting and finance. The School has an outstanding reputation for academic excellence and is one of the most international universities in the world. Its study of social, economic and political problems focuses on the different perspectives and experiences of most countries. From its foundation LSE has aimed to be a laboratory of the social sciences, a place where ideas are developed, analysed, evaluated and disseminated around the globe. Visit http://www.lse.ac.uk for more information. The Centre for Economic Performance is an independent ESRC funded research centre based at the London School of Economics and Political Science. Its members are from the LSE and a wide range of universities within the UK and around the world. For more information, please contact: LSE Press Office T: 0207 849 4624 Press release distributed by Pressat on behalf of Pressat Wire, on Thursday 6 March, 2014. For more information subscribe and follow http://www.pressat.co.uk/ Business & Finance
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, approximately 22 million people require treatment for drug abuse. However, based on the most recent statistics available, only about 18 percent of those people received treatment for substance abuse. Those that do receive treatment face an uncertain outcome from a process that can take years, and comes with many pitfalls. Recovery never truly ends for those who struggle with addiction: temptation and the possibility of relapse are always present. Treatment seeks to address all of the addict’s problems, however, no one form of treatment is effective for everyone. Those for whom traditional methods don’t work may respond better to alternative approaches that better meet their needs. The tendency to emphasize counseling, medication and other “mainstream” treatment modalities may stem from a relative lack of federal funding for addiction treatment and treatment research. The United States spends about $100 billion on heart disease and nearly $90 billion on cancer treatment but just $28 billion on drug addiction, even though approximately 20 percent of deaths in the U.S. are attributed to drug, alcohol and tobacco use. To make matters worse, there is a major divide between practice and data-based treatment. Alternative treatments generally lack research support; however, an absence of data does not mean that addicts haven’t benefited from alternative, or complementary, methods. Today, there’s an expanding body of alternative methods that have proven successful at addressing specific needs, and some of these methods even incorporate technology. Many of them help individuals who struggle with problems that can easily trigger relapse behavior, such as anger or insomnia. However, an alternative treatment like herbal therapy won’t work for people with extensive allergy problems, or those who are taking medications that may be rendered ineffective by certain substances. Neurofeedback, a method in which the patient seeks to adapt brain wave activity, can cause seizures, anxiety and fatigue. Mindful concentration exercises have long been used as a complementary treatment to more conventional options. Achieving mindfulness through meditative discipline puts patients in touch with their feelings and helps them learn not to respond to negative emotions and thoughts. Meditation is also an effective way to control stress and mood by reducing levels of cortisol, and helps the body rid itself of chemicals that can lead to further substance abuse. Beginners to meditation can use apps like Headspace and Calm to help them get started on their practice. Mindful meditation has also been proven to have great efficacy when treating video game addiction and other behavioral addictions. Many find that exercising regularly can aid their recovery. Physical activity adds structure, increases happiness, reduces stress, and lowers the urge to use drugs or alcohol. An exercise routine doesn’t have to be rigorous. Practicing yoga can lower stress and bring balance. Even some simple stretches like arm and shoulder stretches, neck rolls, chin tucks, and calf raises can reduce stress levels, which can help prevent a relapse. Some people find that a fitness tracker or smartwatch can be helpful in tracking their progress, and these devices can be a motivating force as well. Along with measuring steps and distance traveled, these tools can also track sleep quality and heart rate. Before purchasing a smartwatch, research each model’s features and price points. For example, a newer model like the Apple Watch Series 4 has a large display, a heart sensor, and fall detection and emergency SOS. While the Fitbit Charge 3 has sleep tracking and seven-day battery life. Acupuncture has been used as a complementary treatment for a wide range of illnesses since the 1970s. Thin needles are used to activate certain points on the body. There are a number of theories as to how and why it works, one being its ability to impact neurotransmitters and stimulate the endocrine gland, important factors in helping substance abusers improve their mood. Some believe acupuncture aids in the processing of emotions that contribute to addiction. Natural substances such as minerals, herbs and vitamins constitute a different branch of alternative addiction treatment. Herbs like milk thistle, which protects the liver, and ginkgo biloba, which aids memory, concentration and will power are just part of an increasingly popular treatment option. Ibogaine, which has been shown effective at easing opioid withdrawal symptoms, is another example of herbal therapy, though it’s currently illegal in the United States. Holistic treatments combine alternative and conventional approaches in treating illnesses of all sorts. Some describe it as a way of making a mind-body connection that boosts the body’s ability to heal. A holistic approach is often effective in treating addiction because it impacts the entire body. Specific therapy approaches often fail to help prevent substance abusers from relapsing because they don’t treat both mind and body. It’s an important consideration since addiction is a disease in which the body reacts to negative stimuli from the brain. Alternative treatments can be very effective because they seek to strengthen the connection between mind and body.
1-2-3 Come Do Some "Wemberly Worried" Activities With Me No matter what grade I taught, to get students excited about writing, all I had to do was incorporate a bit of craftiness, to get & hold their attention. With that in mind, I designed these super-fun writing prompt craftivities, which were inspired by Kevin Henkes’ book, “Wemberly Worried”, an all-time favorite back to school story. I think realizing that others also have fears, helps children not feel so alone when dealing with their own emotions; especially if they find someone who shares the same worry (Like Wemberly & Jewel). Hopefully, these various writing prompts will provide cathartic fun. 1. There are 14 cover options for the “Sometimes I worry about…” craftivity, which includes 5 girl & 5 boy patterns. Students color & draw in the facial features. There’s also a generic pattern, plus one featuring Wemberly, as well as a blank template where students can draw themselves inside the “worry circle”. The cover is then glued to the top of their writing prompt so it flips up. 2. So that you can do a variety of quick, easy & fun writing activities throughout the week, I’ve also included 4, “point of view” postcards, where students pretend they are Wemberly and then write a postcard to a classmate. 3. Students need to know that everyone worries; it’s normal and there are coping skills to help. Which is why I also designed the “Flip the Face” (Mice Advice) craftivity. Students color, cut and glue Wemberly’s face together, so that it flips up to reveal something they do to help with their worries. I think this prompt is easier for students to “share” because they feel they are helping others. 4. As another story extension, I’ve also included several Venn diagram options, where students compare Jewel with Wemberly, as well as Wemberly to themselves. For a fun icebreaker, have students partner up, and do the “Venn Friend” activity, which make an adorable back to school bulletin board. 5. A discussion helps to alleviate fears as well, so I’ve included a whole-group activity, comparing young people’s worries with those of adults. 6. To help get rid of worries, I’ve also included 2 worksheet options, where students write their worries on a large W or “pencil page”, then rip their worries into small pieces, ball them up into a wad, then “toss their cares into the trash”. 7. On the same order, is “Give your worry warts away”, where students give their warts to Wharton the toad, who never worries about anything. The warts are simply colorful stickers they sprinkle on one of two toad options. To expedite coloring, I ran the patterns off on tan construction paper. Students add some shading with crayons. On the back of Wharton, they write down 3-8 worries that they have, numbering them as they go. The "worry ball" that Wharton sits on says: Don't Worry Be "HOppy". While students are working, I play Bobby McFerrin's song. Click the link to have a listen. I've included several photo posters of real toads to help introduce your lesson, then later they can spice up your bulletin board display. The packet includes: * A “Chalk” behavior modification, positive reinforcement activity, that will help promote working as a team to achieve a desired goal, building self-esteem at the same time. * Black & White “color me” headers, for a sidewalk chalk treat Baggie, as well as patterns in full color for preschool, kindergarten, & first grade, with a blank template for you to fill in with any other grade. I’ve also included a generic one you can give at anytime of the year. * A “Chalk Talk” bear poster you can write a daily message on. * A “Chalk Talk” kitten poster wishing children a “purrr-fect” day. Plus... * 2, Chalk Talk ("I had a nice time at school today. These are a few of the things that I did:" ) writing prompt worksheets. Well that's it for today. Thanks for stopping by. It's the middle of August, so my feet have hit the floor running. My "To Do" list is way too long, but it's also a ton of fun. Wishing you a zippidy-do-dah kind of day, filled with lots of zip and not so much "to do" dah. "You're off to great places. Today is your day. Your mountain is waiting so get on your way!" - Dr. Seuss 1-2-3 Come Do Some "First Day Jitters" Activities With Me Do you read “First Day Jitters” by Julie Danneberg? It’s one of my all-time favorite back to school books. My students absolutely LOVE the surprise ending. With that in mind, I decided to make 3 different "Jitter" crafts, to help students sequence and retell the story. They are a super-fun transitional activity after you're done reading. First up is the “First Day Jitters” flip the flap, schoolhouse booklet. So that you can differentiate your lessons, I’ve included a simple flip booklet with just 4 pages for little ones, as well as pattern pages for a super-cool schoolhouse, where the pages are cut down the middle, so the "double-doors" of the school house flip open on both sides. I purposely did not number the pages, so you can check comprehension. This also allows you to choose less pages for preschool students, who can easily sort beginning-middle-& end, then retell the story with a limited number of “picture prompts”. Simply run the schoolhouse pattern off on construction paper or card stock. Students color & trim. Open the doors to the schoolhouse to retell the story. Students color, cut & collate the pages into a little booklet, which is then glued to the base of the schoolhouse. For writing practice, I’ve also included several prompt options that are written on the schoolhouse base patterns. Simply choose which is most appropriate for your kiddos, or you could give them a choice. Next up is a super-simple "First Day Jitters" storytelling wheel. If your kiddos are like mine, they will really enjoy making a wheel of their own. It’s a wonderful activity to transition to after reading the story. To once again grab my students’ attention, I share my sample as a story review, then ask, “Who’d like to make one?” Woo Hoo for excited enthusiasm! As a whole group, when everyone is done with their craftivity, practice retelling “First Day Jitters” using the wheel manipulative. Everyone starts by turning their wheel to the “pie slice”, where Mr. Hartwell is calling to Sarah. Pick a child to explain what’s happening in that ”beginning of the story” graphic. Continue to turn the wheel, calling on different students to tell you about that portion of the story. To check comprehension, and reinforce the “sequencing a story” standard, I’ve also included a “color, cut & glue” sequencing worksheet. Use the larger, colorful pattern for a whole group activity with younger kiddos. Print, laminate & trim the patterns. Attach the grid to your white board, then pass the pieces out to your students. "How does the story start?" "Who has that story piece?" That child comes up and places it on the grid. (I attach magnet dots to the backs, but you can also use Velcro or tape.) Students color the story elements on the “slider strip” then cut and glue it together. With just six, nice-sized graphics, this is easy peasy for even preschool children, making it perfect for explaining the beginning-middle & end of a story too. As children pull on the end of the “slider-strip” the various pictures go through the “window” on the “door” of the schoolhouse, so that students can take turns retelling the story to a partner or reading buddy, then take their slider home to share with their family, once again practicing these standards. All three packets include black & white patterns, as well as colorful ones, so that you can quickly & easily make an example to share. As another way to assess comprehension, as well as include more writing practice, I’ve also included a “Here’s What Happened…” worksheet, which can be done independently, or as a whole group with younger children. This worksheet is included in all three packets as well. No matter if you're flippng & flapping, or turning & learning, or simply sliding along, I hope you have an absolute blast with your new students. Today's featured FREEBIE is also a little something for back to school. I found an "author unknown" quote in various place on the internet, and decided to revamp & expand it, making this "poster poem" appropriate for a teacher to share with their students. You can hang it up as a poster, or tuck it in your "Welcome Packet". Just a little something fun for "Meet & Greet the Teacher" night too. Well that's it for today. Thanks for stopping by. As we head into the weekend we will be topping 90 degrees. I'm so grateful that we have air conditioning in our home. Despite the heat, I may venture out to walk my poodle pup and water the flowers. Wishing you a relaxing and super-fun summer & jitter-free school year. "Summer: Hair gets lighter; skin gets darker. Water gets warmer; drinks get colder. Music gets louder; nights get longer. Life gets better in the good ole' summertime. " -Unknown 1-2-3 Come Do Some Writing Prompt Crafts With Me Whether you're looking for a little something to save your sanity, and fill up a bit of time during the last week or school, or you need a writing prompt for back to school, you'll “TOE-tally” love the versatility of my 2 newest packets. I call these “double duty” writing prompt crafts because I’ve included patterns for the end of the year, as well as ones for back to school. First up is the super-cute "TOE-tally" writing prompt packet, which includes 3 different writing prompt crafts. Plus each of those has several options too! All of the writing prompts use the “TOE-tally” play-on-words. The graphics vary, but all feature cute little toes somewhere in the picture. For the 1st option, the “shorts” of the child flip up to reveal the writing prompt. There are 4 black & white boy options for students to choose from, as well as 4 girl patterns. Since completed projects make an adorable bulletin board, I've included a set of matching posters for your display. All of the craftivities have a colorful option as well, so that teachers can quickly & easily make an example to share. To give you some ideas, I’ve also included my completed writing prompt samples. The 2nd option is a card. The sweet graphics feature 10 toes peeking out of a pair of flip flops. Attach to an end or beginning of the year treat for your students. I buy the bags of mini candy bars or Skittles at The Dollar Store. They usually have 10-12 in a bag, so it's an inexpensive little surprise, that's so appreciated by my kiddos. I have matching bulletin board posters for this craft as well. Finally, the 3rd option sports a child chilling out under a beach umbrella, which flips up to reveal the prompt. The other writing prompt craftivity packet is entitled, "Steppin' Into ..." These craftivities also serve double duty. End of the Year Option: Students trace and cut out one of their feet & then glue it to the base of their flip flop. To add extra pizzazz and 3D pop, the “straps” for the top of the flip flop, are strips of paper that stick up. Adding a heart with a school photo creates even more interest, making this a sweet keepsake as well. They might also like to add glitter for “nail polish” & a flat-backed “rhinestone” for a toe ring. Students glue their completed foot to one of the corners of their “Steppin’ Into Summer…” writing prompt paper. There are 4 black & white options for students to choose from; as well as 2 colorful ones, so that teachers can quickly & easily make an example to share. Completed projects make a terrific bulletin board. I’ve also included a poster for the center of your summer display, plus a different one for your back to school bulletin board. Back To School Option: Summer flies and school has a way of “sneaking” up on you, so this “flip up” sneaker craft, features a pair of tennis shoes. The black & white “cover” pattern, can be colored with markers or crayons, or you can expedite things & run the template off on a variety of colors of construction paper. At the top of the sneakers is a glue tab, which is glued to the top of the matching blank base. This “hinge” is flipped up to reveal the completed writing prompt underneath the cover. There are two prompt options: Option 1. “Here’s how I feel about stepping into a new school year!” I’ve also included patterns for “Here’s how I feel about stepping into 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th or 5th grade…” with a blank option, so you can write in a different grade. Option 2. “As you step into a new school year, here’s some advice:” For this end of the year writing prompt, your students write some advice, to your new students coming in the fall. Tuck these away, then on the first day of school, lay them on your students’ desk, or attach to a locker door in the hallway. If you’re a Pete the Cat fan, this “sneaker craft” is a fun activity that you can transition to, after reading one of Pete’s shoe stories. A child's blue hand print topped with sneakers makes this a cute keepsake. Well that's it for today. Thanks for stopping by. I think we've skipped spring here in Michigan, as we seem to have jumped from winter (which lasted into April), right into summer, with record-breaking 90 degree temps for May! Have to dash and water my flowers before it gets too hot. Wishing you lots of "fun in the sun" as well. "When the weather is hot, keep a cool mind. When the weather is cold, keep a warm heart.." - Ajahn Brahm 1-2-3 Come Do Some Versatile Writing Prompt Craftivities With Me Sometimes when I'm designing something for a particular thing, it turns out that I can also use it for something else; as once a crafty little pattern is made, it's easy to tweak the writing prompt portion, so that it fits for other times of the year. Such is the case for several of the Mother's Day craftivities I just finished; so I included patterns appropriate for the end of the year, as well as back to school. Today, I'm featuring 3 of them, along with today's featured FREEBIE. First up is the "berry" versatile strawberry packet. I’ve included a back-to-school pattern that says: “I had a ‘berry’ special summer because…” as well as an end of the year template: “This school year was ‘berry’ special because…” Run the summer strawberry off on hot pink with lime green leaves; then see wonderful improvement in your students’ writing, when they complete the other prompt, at the end of the year. I’ve also included another pattern to make a “Thank you ‘berry’ much!” card, which you can give to volunteers who’ve helped your class, the secretary or whoever gave you a helping hand throughout the year. Flip the card up to reveal a picture of your class holding a thank you sign or letter cards spelling the words out, then have everyone sign it. Another pattern is for a Mother’s Day card: “My (mom, mommy, mama, mum, grandma) is ‘berry’ special because…” Have students make hand print “leaves” for that keepsake touch. Finally, the "fruity treat" is a little gift you can give your students at the beginning or end of the year: "I hope your summer is 'berry' special just like you." or . . . "I'm wishing you a 'berry' special year. Attach the strawberry tag to a berry-flavored juice box or package of Skittles. Next up is the "....And That's Something To Tweet About!" writing prompt bird craftivity. Just like the strawberry, you can use it for back-to-school, (“I had a great summer!), or at the end of the year (“I had a great year in school) and that's something to tweet about!" I’ve also included a variety of writing prompt options suitable for Mother’s Day as well. “My (mom, mum. mommy, mama, grandma) is special and that’s something to tweet about!” There are blank wing and “hang tag” patterns as well, so that you can write in something else. These pieces, along with the accordion-folded legs, add special 3D pizzazz. Older students explain why, by writing on the back of the bird. Completed projects really turn out adorable and look sweet suspended from the ceiling. Finally, "Great Times!" also includes a variety of writing prompt options. I’ve included 3 patterns for a Mother’s Day card, as well as templates for the end of the year: ”Time sure flies! I had a _____________ year in _____________!” Plus there’s a “Fun in the Sun Summer Time“ pattern, where students can write about the fun times they are looking forward to doing during vacation, or use for back-to-school and have students write about a few of their favorite times that they enjoyed. Besides the 3 “draw yourself” clock patterns for Mother’s Day, there are also 6 templates featuring 3 boys & 3 girls. Students simply color and cut. Older kiddos “hinge” the writing prompt to the back with a piece of Scotch tape. There are black & white patterns for students, plus full color templates of the children holding the clocks, so that you can quickly and easily make samples to share. Today's featured FREEBIE is also versatile, as you can use it in February for Valentine's Day, as well as for grandparents, Mom or Dad on their special days. I found this ABC "I Love You!" idea in various print forms on a variety of sites, so I'm not sure where the original idea came from. However, instead of making an 8x10 print to frame, I thought it would be perfect to design some cards, bookmarks and magnets, which children could make in school for various holidays. As for me, I tucked one in my husband's briefcase. Well that's it for today. Thanks for stopping by. If you get a minute, zip on over to the site-wide "Teacher Appreciation" sale going on over at TpT. My shop is participating. Enter the Promo Code: CELEBRATE for an additional 10% off at checkout. "If you can read this, thank a teacher!" 1-2-3 Come Do Some Frog-Themed Craftivities With Me Woo hoo for some of you lucky duckies who are now basking in the sunshine, enjoying the start of your vacation. For those of you who are still in school for a few more days, or even weeks, boy have I got a super-fun, frog-themed packet for you! The versatility continues because it includes templates for Pre K4 through 3rd grade, so you can make things specific to your grade level! Getting students to WANT to write and really enjoy it, is one of my hot buttons. With that in mind, I stuffed the packet with lots of creative writing prompt choices with an adorable frog theme that encompasses "leaping" into summer, a new grade, and a new year in school. There are 18 writing prompt craftivities in all, with lots of options for both the end of the year, as well as for back-to-school. I enjoy drawing frogs; and had a fun time creating some real cuties. "Ferdinand" is a fat and sassy frog that's a "peek-over". Run him off on lime green construction paper. Students trim and add colorful details with crayons, then glue him to the top of their "I'm leaping" writing prompt for the end of the year, or choose another topic and use the blank frog pattern, for back-to-school. I've included a "Look Who's Leaping" poster to use in the center of your bulletin board when you display your students' finished projects. "Fred" is another fun-frog craft. Here the writing prompt is written on his "tongue". You can display Fred with a "flat tongue" or include some great fine-motor practice, and have students curl it, by rolling the paper strip on a crayon. For that finishing touch, I've included some "flies". There's a "This stuff stuck. Look what I learned!" end-of-the-year pattern, as well as one that says: "I had a delicious summer.This is what I did..." for back-to-school. Jose' can be done as a whole-group, class-made book, where everyone contributes a "belly page" or as an independent writing prompt, where each child makes their own booklet. The "Before We Go We'd Like You To Know" booklet gives advice to next year's kiddos. The "Frogtastic Memories" can be turned into a quick, easy and fun end-of-the-year Memory Book, by simply having students write pages about the favorite things that they did in school or during the summer. There are 5 to choose from, plus a blank one to program with whatever, and a sample for you to share to help explain to your students what you want them to do. As with "Fred" this too can be done independently, or as a whole-group, class-made booklet. The back-to-school "I'm 'hoppy' to be me" writing prompt is a personal favorite. I've also included a "We're flipping over leaping into a new grade!" poster that you can use for the center of your bulletin board display. There's a poster for pre k4 through 3rd grade, plus a blank one to fill in with whatever. If you've followed me, you know that I like to incorporate things with a play-on-words. It's a fun way to expand horizons and build vocabulary. Students write about their "ribbiting" summer or "ribbiting" things that they enjoyed during the school year, inside "Rodney's" circular-frog belly. There's a sampling of some of them in the photo. The "So long school, hello summer" or "So long summer, hello school" worksheets, where the froggy is opening a 3D school door to reveal the writing prompt are especially cute. There's a similar writing prompt with a different frog, that may be more appealing for older students. One bulletin board display that's especially adorable, is the frog on a lily pad. I made the water lily flower out of a coffee filter. In the top photo I simply scrunched the filter. In the bottom picture I folded it into 1/8ths, then folded it one more time, snipping the end to create scallops. When you open it, it looks just like a large flat water lily. I edged it with a pink watercolor marker, then spritzed it with water so it smudged into the paper. Easy-peasy with awesome results. You have a nice teachable moment to discuss fractions, while children are following your step-by-step directions and folding their filter. The final writing prompt craftivity features "Fritz". This frog sits on a pail of sand. I cut an oval out of sandpaper and glued it to the bucket, so that it looks filled! Children write things they'd like to do over the summer. The back-to-school writing prompt option tells what they've done during the summer and what they'd like to do in school. I realize this "bucket list" idea is all over Pinterest, but I've been doing it way before TpT or Pinterest came into being. Click on the link for my original "Summer Bucket List" FREEBIE. It's in a FREE summer writing prompt packet with 6 other fun "craftivities". Besides writing prompts, there are lots of end-of-the-year AND back-to-school themed "goodies" stuffed into the packet, with templates for Pre K4 through 3rd grade. One group features another play-on-words using "toad-ally" for totally, which fits in perfect with my frog/toad theme. I had fun designing a few writing prompts, as well as goodies using this fun word. There are color, as well as black & white covers for the mini-flip booklets and notes, as well as 2 posters and some labels. "Brag Bracelets" are another "goodie". They are super-fun to make and wear. I designed one that says: "I'm Leaping!" and another with "Welcome!" on it. Simply run off the pattern and trim using a paper cutter. Slit a toilet paper roll up the side and cut it into sections, the width of the pattern. Children glue to their "slap bracelet" folding the edges under. It's the perfect size for little ones, and the bent shape keeps it on their arm! When other kiddos ask them about their bracelet, they can "brag" that they made it and are "leaping" into a new grade. Nice little self-esteem builder! If you're looking for a quick, easy and inexpensive little end-of-the-year, or back-to-school treat to give your students, take a look at my "tiny tags". These are sweet little notes from the teacher, that you can attach to a "Flavor Ice" Popsicle (They sell them 50 to a pack for only $2.95!). Putting them on a Fruit Roll Up (sticky frog tongue!) or attaching to a Snack Baggie is also fun. The Dollar Store sells a package of 12 gummi rainbow frogs that would also work. I've also created a cute, keepsake-photo magnet. Laminate them for durability. The Dollar Store also sells magnet strip. (I'm a frequent shopper there; can ya tell?) I've also included a variety of bookmarks suitable for the beginning, as well as the end of they year. They come in color, as well as black and white. One is a writing prompt that students complete (nice bucket-filler activity), while another they color for one of your in-coming students. My personal favorite is the keepsake photo bookmark, but the foreign language (Hello-Goodbye) ones are also really cute. Another "goodie" in the packet are the "color-me" certificates for pre K4 through 3rd grade, (there are 4 styles to choose from, or give your kiddos a choice), plus there are 2 word-art frog-shaped posters that I created using Tagxedo.com. I've included my silhouettes, so that your kiddos can also make their own. Well that about covers this frog-themed packet, which is a whopping 201 pages (!) and on sale now for just $6.95 (regularly $8.95). It took me a zillion hours to finish, but I think it was well worth the time. Click on the link to pop on over to my TpT shop and let the fun begin. As always, I try to include a few FREEBIES from the packet as well. You can get the frog-word art posters, the word-art certificates (for pre-K4 through 3rd grade) stars and labels, plus the brag bracelets by clicking on the link: frog-themed end-of-the year mini packet. To grab the FREE frog back-to-school banners, click on this link. The end pennants come in color as well as black line, and have templates for Pre K4 through 3rd grade. The frog-face pennants spell out "Welcome" and are in black and white, so that your kiddos can color them, taking ownership of helping to decorate their new home-away-from-home classroom. This year's kiddos can make the banner to welcome your new students in the fall, or the new kids on the block can do it. Either way, it's kid-made and will look awww-dorable. Well that's it! Whew! That's a lot of frog stuff! I apologize for such a long post. Thanks for hanging in there if you've read to the end. I'm just so excited to share my latest "mess-terpiece". You should see my office; it's a pile of craft supplies and samples...everywhere! Thanks for visiting today. It's clean up time. Maybe I'll hum the "clean-up song" that my Y5's used to love singing. On second thought, the sun is shining and a warm breeze is beckoning to me to come play. I think I will. Wishing you a delightful day, crammed with creativity. "For life to get easier, you have to get better." -Billy Cox 1-2-3 Come Stuff a Backpack With Me Things really seem to fly after Memorial Day, as teachers everywhere are counting down the days to summer. However, some of us have those dreaded snow days to make up, and our districts don’t get out ’til the middle of June! The packet is very versatile, as it can be used in a variety of ways for the beginning or end of the year, with activities geared towards the very young, as well as older elementary students too. It’s loaded with plenty of options to choose from: writing prompts that act like a memory book; writing prompts that offer advice for next year’s students, or writing-prompt "clues" that are played as a game. Completed projects make sweet bulletin boards or hallway decorations too. The Backpack Packet Includes: An “Our Year Was Packed With Learning & Stuffed With Fun!” class-made book. This writing prompt comes in a full-page size, as well as two-on-a-page, with full-color cover pages for both. It's a fun writing prompt for the end of the year. Collate and keep to share with your new students in the fall. I've included a completed sample. The supply-filled backpack option says: ”There’s a whole lot of learning & fun packed into _________________.” Children fill in their grade level and color the picture. The front flap flips up or over, to reveal the writing prompt. This younger-elementary choice, can be used like a memory book, where children write about their favorite activities, or they could also make this for your new students as well. Another backpack writing prompt option is the "School was cool, this I know. I’m all packed up and ready to go. Summer’s here. Hi ho! Hi ho!” It's a good choice for older students. There are 4 flaps to flip and write under, with a summer option, and a memory-book option: ”School is cool and packed with fun! Here’s a peek of what I’ve done” plus a next year student option. I've also included a blank flap template to fill in with whatever. My personal favorite is the super-cute ”Kindergarten was packed with learning and stuffed with fun” writing prompt “craftivity”. It includes 7, front-panel options for kindergarten through 3rd grade, with a blank one to fill in with a different grade, plus one for summer. Students add a cap, accordion-folded “legs” and shoes (there are 3-styles to choose from), so that this looks like the back of a child carrying a backpack. The flap flips up to reveal their writing prompt. I designed this thinking of how adorable my young fives looked on their first day of school. They had brand new backpacks that were so large they made them look like little turtles. One nudge and I'm sure they'd tip over. This memory always made me smile. ”Backpack. Pack on your back. Help us guess what’s in your sack.” is a backpack guessing game that includes this chant on a poster, with another backpack "craftivity" option. Students draw a picture under the bottom flap and write 3 clues under the top one, describing their hidden picture. They read one clue at a time, pausing for students to guess what they have in their sack for summer or for school. Finally, there's a mini flip booklet ”There’s a lot of fun and learning packed into __________(grade).” Students write what they learned, enjoyed and a few of their favorite things on 6-page options. I've included covers in color, plus black & white. These make a quick, easy & fun memory book, or have students contribute a page to make a class book to share with your new class in the fall. As always, I've also included directions, tips, tricks, photographs and completed samples for each project. This "Mini Memories" part of the packet is my featured FREEBIE for you! Click on the link to grab it. If you'd like to see the entire Backpack Packet, click on the link to pop on over to my TpT store. This 48-page unit is on sale for just $3.95. I hope you enjoy it! That’s it for today. Thanks for stopping by. Michigan has finally greened up and exploded with flowers. LOVE springtime when it eventually shows up! Time to go outside and put the finishing touches on my flower garden. Wishing you a wonderful end-of-the-year. I hope its packed with fun and stuffed with lots of special memories. "You can't learn from your mistakes, if you keep denying them." -Unknown 1-2-3 Come Do Some Back To School Writing With Me Here's a quick, easy and fun writing prompt for back to school. Completed projects look awesome dangling from the ceiling, swirling and twirling as they wave so long to summer, and hello to a brand new school year. Even if you've already started back, summer's not technically over 'til the first day of fall (September 23rd) so you can easily incorporate this craftivity into your writing block, or Daily 5 activities. Give students a variety of construction paper-color choices, to trace their hand and arm on. They trim and cut out. Run off the writing prompt rectangles. I've included templates for preschool through 8th grade. Students color and complete the prompt, using words and phrases about things pertaining to their summer, as well as the new grade that they're in. Younger students can do this with the help of their parents at Open House or Meet the Teacher Night. If you don't have one, tuck the activity in their backpacks for a nice home-school connection. Students glue the summer prompt to the front of their hand, and the school one, to the back. For a bit more pizzazz, children can draw on polished fingernails and jewelry. (I used a flat-backed rhinestone to make a ring.) Be sure and make a sample of your own to help explain what you want your students to do. This is also an interesting way for them to get to know you a little better. I've included my writing samples, so that you can easily make an example if you don't have time to make one of your own. After students share, punch a hole in a finger tip, add a yarn tie and suspend from the ceiling. Your caption could be "High Fives For Wonderful Writing." I didn't dangle these samples from my ceiling, but you can get an idea from the photo, of how colorful and really cool your students' completed projects will look. Click on the link to view/download the So Long Summer; Hello School Year Writing Prompt craftivity. Thanks for visiting today. It's pouring outside my window, giving me a sleepy kind of feeling --the perfect day for doing all sorts of crafty things, or perhaps snuggling into a good book. Wishing you a relaxing day. "Believe you can and you’re halfway there!" -Unknown 1-2-3 Come Do An Apple-icious Writing Activity With Me Because many teachers decorate with an apple theme, and a lot of children study about apples in the fall, I decided to design a back to school apple icebreaker. It's a quick, easy and fun way to get to know your new students. Be sure and make a sample to help explain what you want them to do, as well as an interesting way, for them to get to know you too. Students complete the writing prompts and then color their apples in an ABC pattern. I chose this pattern, because apples come in 3 colors, and I wanted to toss in a bit of science as well as math, plus it helps younger students to use more than only one color, which they are notorious for. By having them cut their apple out, you provide an opportunity for practice, and can see at a glance who is having difficulty with fine motor skills. If you take a first day of school photo, make copies and trim, so that students can glue one to their leaf, for that finishing touch. Completed projects make a sweet bulletin board. (A new crop of kids, Kindergarten is a bushel of fun, The apple of Mr(s). ______'s eye, apple-icious work are just a few captions. I've included 3 samples to give you some ideas of what children can share. An example will help jumpstart their minds and set them in the right direction. There's also a blank apple for you to fill in with whatever information you'd like to learn about your students. Click on the link to view/download the Apple Icebreaker Packet. Thanks for visiting today. It's Friday and that means garage sales! (Woo hoo.) I'm off in search of more treasures to fill up my already too-full basement! As a teacher, you can probably relate to suffering from the Pack Rat Syndrome. "Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow." -Anthony J. D'Angelo 1-2-3 Come Make A Writing Prompt Craft With Me Summer is an especially wonderful time to ride a bike, so I thought I'd make a "craftivity" using a bicycle. If you're a frequent visitor, you know that I enjoy designing things involving a "play on words". As I putzed with a writing prompt I thought substituting the word "wheel" for real would be fun. Thus "I had a 'wheel' great summer!" was born. There are two templates to choose from. One is for back to school, the other for the end of the year. Use as an interesting icebreaker for the first week of school, where students write about the places they went and the things they did over vacation. This is a fun way to find out about your new students, as they complete the prompt inside the spokes of the wheel. For added pizzazz, and to learn a bit more about your kiddos, have students write using their two favorite color markers. Simply run the bike off on a variety of colors of construction paper. Students trim and glue to the wheels. (I ran off on white card stock.) If you want them to spin, poke a hole in the center and attach with a brass brad. For that finishing touch, have students attach a school photo. Children read one or two items from each wheel, as they share it with their classmates. You can do these in class; as an activity for open house; or send home on the first day of school for children to complete with their family. While I was at it, I thought this idea could also be used at the end of the year, where students wrote about their favorite things, activities, subjects, etc. There are six wheels they can choose from, including a blank one to fill in whatever prompt you want. Completed projects make a sweet bulletin board. Click on the link to view/download the bicycle writing prompt craftivity. Thanks for visiting. Feel free to PIN away. Do you have a back-to-school activity you could share with us? I'd love to hear from you: firstname.lastname@example.org or leave a comment below. "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." -Nelson Mandela 1-2-3 Come Do An Icebreaker Craft With Me What’s On Your Mind? Is an easy and interesting way to get to know your students. Use it as a fun icebreaker for the first day or first week of school. You can do these in class, if you’re looking for a filler, or if you're pressed for time, send them home to be done as a home-school connection. Older students can draw their own self-portrait (head) outline, or use one of mine. I've included two boy options, as well as two for girls to choose from. I find young children do much better if they have some sort of pattern, as they tend to draw rather small circles that items would not be able to fit into. If you’d like to have a ready-to share activity for the first day of school, include the directions and a template in your “Welcome to school” summer letter or tuck it in your Open House packet, if you have one before the start of school. By doing this, you'll also have an instant bulletin board ready to go up, after students share their creations. Be sure and make one for yourself to use to explain things and then post as an example. This is my sample that took about 15-minutes, using clip art + adding a photo of my husband and poodle pup Chloe. I think you’ll enjoy doing it as will your students. No matter what the age group, I've always found that everyone seems to like sharing a little bit about themselves. This is a creative and entertaining way to do that. You could follow this up with some technology time, and have students type in words to their thoughts and make a word-art picture on the computer using the free tagxedo program as well! I did a sample for me and one for my husband, so you could see a male sample. I filled in the caricature templates (see pix) so they don't look as much like a silhouette as I would have liked. If you want to use my boy and girl "head templates" click on the link. You'll need to change them to jpegs to use them in Tagxedo, otherwise find a sideview of some other clip art to import. Click on the link to view/download the What’s On Your Mind activity packet. Thanks for visiting today. Feel free to PIN away. My "Pin it" button is at the top on the menu bar. “Nothing is so strong as gentleness, and nothing so great as real strength.” –St. Francis De Sales
Participants at the Montreal Conference on Climate Change this week were briefed on the role of nuclear power in the context of the world´s concerns over global warming and climate change. The IAEA and the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency hosted a side event session that reviewed the global status and outlook for nuclear power. "Expectations for nuclear power are rising", said Holger Rogner, Head of the IAEA´s Planning and Economic Studies Section, who led the briefing. "Since nuclear power generates few greenhouse gases, an accurate picture of its prospects is important for climate negotiations." The session focused on recent projections, specific national plans, changing markets and the impact of greenhouse gas constraints. Canada is hosting the first meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol in Montreal in conjunction with the eleventh session of the Conference of the Parties to the Climate Change Convention, from 28 November to 9 December 2005. The conference is an historic event. The parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) be meeting for the first time as the "Meeting of the Parties" (MOP) to the Kyoto Protocol, following its entry into force in February 2005, as well as the 11th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC. The United Nations Climate Change Conference is set to be the largest intergovernmental climate conference since the Kyoto Protocol was adopted in 1997, with up to 10,000 participants expected. Nuclear energy is not a panacea to global energy or environmental problems, IAEA Director General Mohamed ElBaradei recently said. "The surge in global energy demand will require continued usage of most, if not all, available energy sources. But with the reduction of carbon emissions becoming a top priority, increasing emphasis will be given to energy conservation and 'clean' energy sources. Within this array of choices... countries are increasingly looking to nuclear as an important part of the future energy mix." At an IAEA international conference earlier this year in Paris, France, governments underscored support for sustainable energy development, concluding that a diverse portfolio of energy will be needed in the 21st century worldwide on social, economic, and environmental grounds.
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Amersfoort, gemeente (municipality), central Netherlands, on the Eem (formerly Amer) River. The site (the name means “ford on the Amer”) was fortified in the 12th century. Its medieval street pattern and some old walls remain, as does the Koppelpoort (a water gate dating from about 1400 and spanning the Eem). Landmarks include the 13th–16th-century Sint Joris Church and the Gothic Tower of Our Lady (the bell tower of a church destroyed in 1787). There is a regional museum, a government archaeological research station, and a Jansenist college. Amersfoort is now a centre for poultry raising and market gardening, and since World War II there has been rapid development of light industry, chiefly the manufacture of metals and chemicals. Johan van Oldenbarnevelt, the Dutch statesman, was born in the town in 1547, as was the painter Piet Mondrian in 1872. Pop. (2007 est.) 139,054.
Flickr/eflonWHY past generations regarded women as the weaker sex is a mystery to anyone who has examined the question objectively, for they are far stronger than men--outliving them in pretty well every society in the world. Partly that is because men are more violent, and their violence is largely directed at other men. But partly it is physiological. Men seem to wear out faster than women do. Yet no one knows why. Madeleine Beekman of the University of Sydney, Australia, and her colleagues, however, have a hypothesis. As they outline in a paper in the Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society, they think at least some of the blame lies with subcellular structures called mitochondria (pictured below), which provide the body with its power by burning glucose and using the energy thus released to make ATP, a molecule that is biology's universal fuel. Mitochondria are intriguing. They are descendants of bacteria that teamed up with the ancestors of animal and plant cells about a billion years ago. As such, they retain their own genes. And this is where the problems start. To avoid fights between genetically different mitochondria in the same cell, most species have arranged for their mitochondria to come from only one parent--usually the mother. This means, as Dr Beekman notes, that a male's mitochondria are stuck in an evolutionary dead end. They cannot evolve in male-specific ways, because no matter how much good they do a male body they inhabit, they will not be passed on to the next generation. Male and female physiologies are sufficiently similar for this not to be a central problem, but Dr Beekman thinks it may matter at the margins. She observes that one disease, called Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy, which is caused by a faulty mitochondrial gene, occurs in only 10% of women whose cellular power-packs include the damaged gene, but in 50% of men whose mitochondria are so encumbered. The gene in question, in other words, is less likely to harm a woman than a man. She then lists a lot of other diseases, including ones far commoner than Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (such as cardiomyopathy, diabetes and several forms of deafness) that sometimes or always have a mitochondrial component, and speculates that some of these, too, may prove to be either more common or more serious in men than in women. As far as her searches of the literature can show, this is not something that has yet been looked into. Part of the reason for this absence of information may be that few doctors think like evolutionary biologists, so they fail to ask the appropriate questions. Dr Beekman's hypothesis may turn out to be wrong. But it sounds eminently plausible, and certainly worth investigating. Click here to subscribe to The Economist
124 million years Age of the oldest fossil crayfish found in China “The ancient crayfish look like the modern ones, but they also have body parts that differ from each other, especially the shape and number of legs of the male.” After analyzing the imprint of weeds, fish and shells in the fossils, Shen concludes that the ancient crayfish in China lived in freshwater but not seawater. Pieces of fossil crayfish were unearthed in western Liaoning in the early 20th century, he said. Many of them were sent to Japan because at the time Northeast China was occupied by Japanese troops. To study the fossils, Shen and two crustacean experts from the United States, Rod Taylor and Frederick Schram, had to borrow them from a museum in Yokohama. For years, Shen has searched for fossil crayfish in Liaoning. He has gone to remote areas, asked dealers for information and bought specimens from various people. He keeps a fossil of a crayfish trying to catch a fish and another of a crayfish lying on its back. (Most fossil crayfish are on their bellies.) “Why all the crayfish suddenly disappeared from China around 100 million years ago is a mystery,” Shen said. “And the connection of ancient crayfish in China and North America is still to be found.” In the 1920s, Japan imported crayfish to feed bullfrogs, and later introduced the species to China’s Yangtze River Delta. The red crustacean has become a popular food across China. According to a report from China’s Ministry of Agriculture in June, the output of crayfish last year reached 899,100 metric tons, making China the world’s largest producer. Nearly 5 million people are involved in the industry. Some Chinese experts disagree with Shen, insisting that crayfish in fact originated in North America. Fang Xingxing, a researcher at Nanjing Agricultural University, said direct evidence of evolution and more fossil crayfish need to be provided to prove that the species originated in China. Guo Jun contributed to this story.
It is pretty easy to guess the primary cause of fatal motor vehicle accidents in Ohio - excessive speed. Speeding means that it is difficult to stop quickly, resulting in traffic violations such as failure to yield, failure to control, unsafe speed and crossing the center line or leaving the road. Although these errors can certainly be associated with drunk driving, drunk driving actually caused fewer fatalities in 2011 than in 2010, continuing a trend. The Ohio Department of Public Safety (DPS) publishes exhaustive statistics about motor vehicle accidents. The most recent edition, for 2011, shows that alcohol-related motorist fatalities have continued to decline. However, impaired drivers still cause more than their fair share of accidents. For example, in 2011, alcohol played a role in 36 percent of all Ohio fatal accidents. Although this is a decrease of 10 percent from the previous year, it is still a high number. In Franklin County, around half of all fatal motor vehicle accidents involved alcohol. This is also true for the city of Columbus. Young drivers account for a large proportion of motor vehicle accidents, fatalities and injuries, according to the report. When age is combined with alcohol, the numbers are striking. Alcohol-impaired drivers between the ages of 21 and 25 caused a third of all fatal motor vehicle accidents in 2011. Despite our knowledge that most motor vehicle accidents are not fatal, the catastrophic crashes grab our attention. Recently, there were several horrible accidents in the Columbus area: - Ohio winter weather takes the lives of drivers every year. A driver was killed in a two-car crash when she lost control while attempting to pass on an icy road in Delaware County and slammed into an oncoming SUV. - A crash last summer that took the life of an Amelia man may have involved illegal drugs that were found in the car. The crash involved a four-vehicle chain reaction. - An elderly driver was hit and killed by an ambulance in January when he pulled out into traffic. - Last summer, a 16-year-old driver lost control of the car as he and his friends were taking a break from high school band practice at Hilliard Bradley High School, about 18 miles west of Columbus. The driver and three passengers were not injured. Ohio law prohibits 16-year-old drivers from having more than one passenger in a car unless the other passengers are family members. For most of us, driving is routine. However, for the drivers and passengers in these news stories and for the individuals reflected in the DPS statistical report, at least one drive was anything but routine. The moral of the story: Be responsible, obey the rules and pay attention. Although we can probably never eliminate motor vehicle accidents, we can try. By changing our behavior slightly, we can contribute to improving the safety of Ohio roads.
The Lower Grades enjoyed a week of nature stories and form drawing each morning this past week. The children physically moved the various running forms, practice them on scrap paper and then finally drew the forms for their master books. We also enjoyed playing sight word bingo as well as working with pattern blocks for math. We began our latest circle time with new verses, songs and games. The children worked each day this week on the verse they shared during the assembly. They learned it so fast and they did a fantastic job sharing it! This week we will start our first math block. Through story, art and games the children will spend time with the numbers 1-12 and then move on to working with place value (ones, tens and hundreds) though hands on activities. Throughout each week, we will continue to have modeling with clay, language arts periods, Nature Exploration, Games class, Handwork, Friendship Circle, Yoga, Indoor Games, and wet-on-wet painting. We do like to stay busy! Please remember all week we have early dismissal at 12:30 due to Parent-Teacher conferences. I am looking forward to sharing about some of the work and fun we have each day in class!
What is a framework? A framework is very much important for the web development. This is actually an identical size of concepts, criteria and practices for working with a most known kind of problem. It can be used as an indication to support people approach and give a solution to latest problems of analogous nature. In the web design world to make it more clearly about framework, one can say it is a parcel that unveils made up of a substance of folders and files of standardized code like documents, JS, CSS and HTML. This can be used to support the website development of websites as a concerning to begin a website. A large number of websites share a much-related structure. The purpose of frameworks is to give a common structure so may the developers do not have to back it from start and can use it again according to the provided code. Following this process, frameworks permit us to cut out maximum of the work and save a lot of time. Importance of Framework for Web Designers No doubt, here is wide catalog of web developers who works to promote websites “started from scratch”. Millions of web developers have spent millions of hours in creating, maintaining and supporting website frameworks. These give users a glowing look and a large portion of websites depends upon the framework. Instant Blueprint is a Helping Web Designer Framework using HTML5 and CSS3 If you are a successful web designer you will soon aware with the fact, as how tiresome it can get to maintain and balance template frameworks repeatedly. This new tool develops a proper web project framework for user’s latest project with the best and long-term required CSS and HTML standards so users can be up and operating in just few seconds. Some Other Details about Instant Blueprint Users Need to Know Some Significant Features: - No need of registration - Supports you to create web projects in few seconds - Specify your options and enter custom markup tags. - Download framework in a well-structured directory.
- Nicholas Williams/Daily By Stephanie Dilworth, Daily Staff Reporter Published February 20, 2013 On Wednesday, Oncology Prof. Max Wicha, director of the University of Michigan Health System’s Comprehensive Cancer Center, gave a lecture entitled “Cancer stem cells: A new frontier in cancer research,” the first in the University’s Health Science Lecture Series sponsored by the Taubman Institute, the Program in Biology and several student organizations. The lecture series aims to inform the public of important health information from University experts in medical and life science. Wicha’s lecture focused on the theory that cancers are driven by cells with stem-cell properties. He is optimistic that understanding the intricacies of cancer stem cells will aid cancer treatments. “In order to eradicate cancer, we have to eradicate cancer stem cells,” Wicha said. Wicha explained that recent developments of cancer therapies have given researchers the ability to slow cancer development. However, while shrinking cancer makes patients feel better, Wicha said it is not enough to prolong the lives of patients. “The problem is, just shrinking cancer will not make patients live longer,” he said. Wicha developed the cancer stem cell hypothesis, which argues that cancers arise from cells with dysregulated self-renewal. While it was previously believed that any cell in your body could become cancerous, the reality, according to Wicha, is that only certain cells in your body are prone to become malignant. Much of these findings were discovered in recent research that involved growing human breast cells in Petri dishes and in mice in research labs. Though the research is promising, Wicha said much more needs to be done, especially for patients with advanced stages of cancer. “The goal is to cure cancer,” Wicha said. “In the common cancers, we’ve made really good progress in treating early stages of it, but in advanced cancers we haven’t made nearly enough progress." Marty Fischhoff, the managing director of the Taubman Medical Research Institute, said he is impressed by Wicha’s research. “(Wicha) is one of the leading figures in cancer research,” Fischhoff said. “When he first came out with the hypothesis about cancer stem cells it was revolutionary and a lot of people didn’t believe it. Now the rest of the world has come over. It’s not universally accepted but most people believe it’s true.” Several student groups helped organize the series. LSA sophomore Shivani Deshmukh said she found Wicha’s talk intellectually stimulating. Desmukh is a member of the Society of Biology, the Student Society of Stem Cell Research and the University’s chapter of Alpha Chi Sigma, a professional chemical fraternity. “Our entire goal of this lecture series is to have medicine and health-related TED-like talks,” Deshmukh said. “I think this is really good because stem cells are a huge part of our society. Finally the technology is coming to it. We are literally on the brink of cancer research.”
Cloud computing is emerging as one of the booming technologies alongside a high demand for qualified professionals. The average salary for IT professionals currently in a cloud computing career is $125,000. However, it is not the easiest of jobs to get as it is a specialty area. In order to secure a job in this field, an individual must have numerous specific skills. Coding and database management: Cloud computing creates a new dimension in the software development. The cloud enables the programmers to create, host, and execute applications that can work out much faster due to the environment’s ability in order to handle huge volumes. Some of the recently added features to the cloud ecosystem are the programming languages like Python, Perl, and Ruby. These are open source and becoming more in demand with each passing year. Other conventional favourites are PHP, Java, and .NET. Python, a high-level language with simple syntax can be an excellent beginning point as far as programming skills in the cloud are concerned. Each day around 2.5 quintillion bytes of fresh data is added to the world. Corporations must understand and maximize use of this growing wealth of data. Therefore, people who can setup, access, and manage databases are in high demand. As a result of the scalability, the cloud platform is the most common space to host databases. Knowledge of a database query language and related database platforms are therefore essential for any professional in this field. The ever-growing pile of data also means that opportunities in this field are not hard to come by. The most common language in database is SQL. An individual willing to add more value to his or her skills could learn MySQL, MongoDB, or Hadoop as well. Cloud professionals with Linux skills are in demand now. One of the reasons is that one fourth of the servers today are powered by Linux-based Azure. This share will surely to increase because of Microsoft’s continued pace towards the open source market. Businesses need professionals capable of working on cloud based Linux servers in numerous areas like Setting up architecture, designing, developing, administering and managing. The Linux Foundation Certified Systems Administrator helps professionals get new skills crucial for a career in administering Linux serves. Learning from them is an industry accepted practice. Courses and certifications: The IT industry is redefined for its focus on the industry and vendor certifications. The cloud domain has also joined this field. All major service providers including Amazon and Microsoft offer training and certifications that can jump start your cloud computing career. The most popular ones include AWS Certification, Azure Certification, and Google Cloud Certified. Via certifications, one can add value to the resume, they cannot, by themselves, help a professional grow in his or her career. Certifications shows practical experience. Gaining proper hands-on experience is more crucial, but certification can be a vital first step in the right direction. Certifications show that the individual has enough knowledge about the domain and can be useful for the firm regarding that particular domain. Hence, a certification on cloud computing can kick-start one’s career in cloud computing in an impactful manner. Cloud platforms and technologies: An IT professional with prior experience can enjoy this cognition to move ahead in a career in cloud computing. Despite of all this, he or she must have to get some additional skills to fit into the new job. For example, become proficient in the most common cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud Platform and Microsoft Azure. In order to begin with, a professional may learn one of them but knowing all of the three can be impressive since there is nothing wrong in being versatile. Multi cloud environments and data integration: A complicated mixture of cloud services and cloud types public, private, and hybrid are becoming the trend in modern organizations. This means that cloud professionals have to know how to manage these multi cloud environments.Organizations use data obtained frommultiple vendors, diverse platforms,and different data centres.Unifying such databases to make data-utilization possible is an enormous activity. The complications compound when the cloud system have to interact with the legacy systems.For professionals specializing in the cloud architecture, integration is a skill that they must have. Business management and data manipulation: Cloud professionals require business skills along with technology skills. These include managing personnel, communication and negotiation. Cloud computing makes customization of data for each business possible. Analysts, who can remodel data and tailor it into formats specified by each department in an organization, are a highly prized asset. Specific roles-related skills: Python: The most rapidly growing language on the cloud. Java: One of the most popular programming languages in the cloud and its latest cloud-friendly enhancements are bound to increase its usage. Agile: Agile project management practices and its adoption in cloud development cycles are growing each year. Amazon Web Services (AWS): The pioneer in affordable cloud services and enjoys the largest market share in the field. Azure: Usage of Microsoft Azure has grown from 34 percent in 2017 to 45 percent in 2018. It’s gaining on AWS every year. Chef: Another technology deployed in DevOps environments. It offers analytics at the enterprise level through its Automate tool. Ansible: An open source centralized server management system that makes setting up a cloud-based application cost effective. Puppet: Employed in DevOps environments to automate AWS, a time-saving option of immense value to most enterprises. Docker: An open source containerization technology that automates the process of setting up and use of software programs VMware: Software to virtualize cloud environments used for computing. This is also popular in all types of domains. The margin that separates the best cloud professionals from the rest is their ability to utilize these high end skills to maximize value for employers. Being able to identify the right cloud data and transform this raw data into business insight that propels management decisions, holds the key to an outstanding cloud computing career. Cloud computing is a booming concept in the modern age. With the variety of applications that it provides along with the security, storage and backup, every organization require such system and hence, require a professional having enough cloud computing knowledge to carry out these data manipulation and data management via the remote servers. These data must be managed carefully as these can be disastrous in case of loses so any professional having in depth knowledge of clod computing can have a successful career in the field of cloud computing in the IT industry.
Six Sigma Certification Six sigma is the structured application of tools and techniques applied on project basis to achieve sustained strategic results. Benefits of Six Sigma Six sigma as a way to address issues and problems has end number of benefits. Most important is the decrease in defects that are allowed to reach the customer. Other benefits of six sigma include: - Alignment with strategy vision, and values. - Assure strategic planning. - Better decision making. - Better safety performance. - Breakdown barriers between departments and functions. - Data analysis before decision making. - Data based decisions. - Design and redesign products/services. - Develop leadership skills. - Effective supply chain management. - Employee motivation. - Faster to market. - Fewer customer complaints. - Focus on customers. - Greater market share. - Improve presentation skills. - Improved customer loyalty. - Improved customer relations. - Improving project management skills. - Increased margins. - Integration of products, services and distribution. - Knowledge of competition, competitors. - Less waste. - Lower costs to provide goods and services. - Management training. - Measure value according to the customer. - Reduced cycle time. - Reductions of incidents. - Supervisor training. - Sustained gains and improvements. - Sustained improvements. - Systematic problem solving. - Team building. - Time management. - Understanding of processes. - Use of standard operating procedures.
ISHPEMING - Aspen Ridge Middle School students learned about the importance of Veterans Day Monday. Included was the posting of colors by the color guard of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 380 at the assembly, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem. After the eighth-grade band played "Marches of the Armed Forces," Principal Linda Ludwig read a brief history on Veterans Day. The Aspen Ridge eighth-grade band directed by Betsy Grugin plays “Marches of the Armed Forces” at the school’s Veterans Day assembly Monday. (Journal photo by Adelle Whitefoot) "In 1921, an unknown World War I American soldier was buried in Arlington National Cemetery. This site, on a hillside overlooking the Potomac River and the city of Washington, became the focal point of reverence for America's veterans," Ludwig read from the history found at Kids for Our Troops. "Similar ceremonies occurred earlier in England and France, where an unknown soldier was buried in each nation's highest place of honor. "These memorial gestures all took place on Nov. 11, giving universal recognition to the celebrated ending of World War I fighting at 11 a.m., Nov. 11, 1918 . The day became known as Armistice Day." Ludwig went on to read that in 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a bill proclaiming Nov. 11 as Veterans Day. After the history was read, Voices in Motion Jr. and the elementary chorus performed "Song for the Unsung Hero." Guest speaker U.S. Army Capt. Jason Rolling then talked about when he first realized he was a veteran. He said it was in the airport when he was coming home. "I was getting off the plane and there was 29 of us all dressed in (Army combat uniforms) and it was like the parting of the Red Sea," Rolling said. "There in the terminal, thousands of people all started applauding and moved out of the way. We even got a police escort to our next flight. "I can't even explain to you what that felt like. There wasn't a dry eye in the place." Rolling said that was the day he realized it was different for him. He went on to explain that everyone has a different reason for serving in the military and that he joined because it was something that was bigger than him. Rolling ended his speech by asking everyone to think about someone they appreciate and then tell that person why they do. The assembly also included a history of "Taps," with students Rylee Perry, Megan Pohlman, Jarod Anttila and Breigh Bennett playing "Taps" as the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 380 presented the colors. Closing the event was a demonstration and explanation of the official U.S. flag folding ceremony. Adelle Whitefoot can be reached at 906-486-4401.
The twentieth century has witnessed a sharpening of concern for the economic aspect of equality and the means of securing it, either within the framework of the liberal system or by establishing a socialist society. Rapid industrialisation brought about an increasing awareness that equality of opportunity cannot be achieved by the equality of law which forbids the rich and the poor alike to steal bread or to sleep under the bridges. Equality of opportunity does not only pre-suppose the equal allotment of certain rights, but also requires application of another rule of distribution: equality of the satisfaction of certain basic needs. It means privileges for the economically underprivileged. As Tawney wrote, ‘Equality of opportunity is not simply a matter of legal equality. Its evidence depends not merely on the absence of disabilities, but the presence of abilities. It obtains in so far as, and only in so far as, each member of the community, whatever his birth or occupation or social position, possess in fact and not merely in form equal chances of using to the full his natural endowments of physique of character and of intelligence’. Early liberals meant by economic equality an equality of choosing one’s trade or profession irrespective of his caste, creed or economic status. It was also understood as freedom of contract or that everybody is equal in so far as the contractual obligations are concerned. Many a time, it was also understood as equalisation of wealth and income. However, all these measures were considered insufficient. Explaining economic equality, Rousseau wrote, ‘By equality we should understand that not the degree of power and riches be absolutely identical for everybody, but that no citizen be wealthy enough to buy another and none poor enough to be forced to sell himself. Economic equality is concerned with the apportionment of goods. To bring the poor to the general starting line, law must compensate them for those initial disadvantages by means of social legislation and social services such as minimum wages, tax exemption, unemployment benefits, free public schooling, scholarship etc. According to Laski, economic equality is largely a problem of proportion. It means that the things without which life is meaningless must be accessible to all without distinction in degree or kind. All men must eat and drink or obtain shelter. Equality involves, up to the margin of sufficiency, identity of response for primary needs. The equal satisfaction of basic needs as a precondition for equality of opportunity does require economic equality i.e. reduction of extreme inequalities in the distribution of commodities. Economic equality is two fold: i) it is a matter of status and ii) it is a matter of property and income. The matter of status raises the issue whether the state should seek to turn industrial production into something like a ‘partnership of equals’ and should introduce a system under which the directing and managing elements stand on an equal footing. With regard to property and income the issue is what methods the state should seek to correct inequality in their distribution. The liberal state through its policy of mixed economy, methods of differential taxation, regulation and raising the wages by methods of social expenditure and other welfare services has been making corrections in the wide disparities of wealth. The state taxes the rich to provide welfare to the poor. While liberal sociologists like Dahrendorf, Raymond Aron, Lipset feel that through the extension of welfare services to all strata of society and redistribution of income and wealth through progressive taxation, the state has been able to lessen economic disparity and assure satisfaction of basic needs of all. Galbraith has gone to the extent of declaring that economic inequality has ceased to be an issue in men’s mind in Western democracies. However, the liberal socialists feel that inspite of the fact that state action has resulted in greater diffusion of property, the permanent ownership of capital resources and the disparity between rich and poor continues and is still greater. State action ‘only touches the fringe of the problem of finding a general system of its more equitable distribution’. The state is yet to grapple with the problem of finding a general system of profit sharing.
On 30 July 2002, orphan designation (EU/3/02/107) was granted by the European Commission to Professor Keith Judkins, United Kingdom, for purified bromelain for the treatment of partial deep dermal and full-thickness burns. The sponsorship was transferred to Teva Pharma GmbH, Germany, in June 2010 and subsequently to MediWound Germany GmbH, Germany, in July 2013. For a list of the administrative updates to this public summary of opinion please refer to the PDF document below. - What are partial deep dermal and full-thickness burns? Burns are classified in three degrees of severity. These depend on how deep the burn is. First-degree burns are limited to the thin outermost layer of the skin. This layer is called epidermis. One example is sunburn. Second-degree burns affect the thick layer of skin or connective tissue beneath the epidermis. This layer contains blood, lymph vessels, sweat glands, and nerve endings. Second-degree burns are divided into two groups. These are called superficial and deep partial-thickness burns. The superficial ones result in blistering and are painful. Healing occurs naturally in one to three weeks. Deep partial-thickness burns have blisters, a pale white or yellow colour and absence of pain sensation. Regrowth of the skin takes between three weeks and two months. Disabling scars can develop in the long term. Third-degree burns involve all skin layers (full thickness). This includes a layer of fat under the connective tissue. There is usually little pain at the beginning. The skin appears dry, leathery and is no longer elastic. Deep partial or full-thickness burns can be life-threatening. - What is the estimated number of patients affected by the condition? At the time of designation, partial deep dermal and full-thickness burns affected approximately 1 in 10,000 people in the European Union (EU). This was equivalent to a total of around 38,000 people, and is below the threshold for orphan designation, which is 5 people in 10,000. This is based on the information provided by the sponsor and the knowledge of the Committee for Orphan Medicinal Products (COMP). Disclaimer: For the purpose of the designation, the number of patients affected by the condition is estimated and assessed on the basis of data from the European Union. At the time of designation, this represented a population of 380,600,000 (Eurostat 2002). - What treatments are available? Most deep partial-thickness and full-thickness burns larger than three centimetres in diameter are best treated with early removal of dead tissue. The removal is done by surgery. Healthy skin is taken from other parts of the body to replace the removed tissue. The use of purified bromelain might reduce the need for surgery. Satisfactory argumentation has been submitted by the sponsor to justify the assumption that purified bromelain could be of potential significant benefit for the treatment of burns. - How is this medicine expected to work? Purified bromelain is extracted from plants. It consists of a mixture of enzymes. Enzymes are proteins that control specific functions and chemical reactions. These enzymes might be useful in dissolving dead tissues at the site of the burn. - What is the stage of development of this medicine? The effects of purified bromelain have been evaluated in experimental models. At the time of submission of the application for orphan designation, clinical evaluation in patients with deep partial-thickness and full-thickness burns had not been completed. This medicinal product had not been marketed anywhere worldwide for this condition. Also, it had not been designated as orphan medicinal product for this condition at the time of submission. In accordance with Regulation (EC) No 141/2000 of 16 December 1999, the COMP adopted a positive opinion on 27 June 2002 recommending the granting of this designation. Update: Purified bromelain (NexoBrid) was authorised in the EU on 18 December 2012 for removal of eschar in adults with deep partial- and full-thickness thermal burns. - Opinions on orphan medicinal product designations are based on the following three criteria: - the seriousness of the condition, - the existence of alternative methods of diagnosis, prevention or treatment; - either the rarity of the condition (affecting not more than 5 in 10,000 people in the European Union) or insufficient returns on investment. Designated orphan medicinal products are products that are still under investigation and are considered for orphan designation on the basis of potential activity. An orphan designation is not a marketing authorisation. As a consequence, demonstration of quality, safety and efficacy is necessary before a product can be granted a marketing authorisation. \|Name\|\|Language\|\|First published\|\|Last updated\| \|EU/3/02/107: Public summary of positive opinion for orphan designation of purified bromelain for the treatment of partial deep dermal and full thickness burns\|\|(English only)\|\|07/01/2003\|\|19/09/2013\| \|Active substance\|\|Purified bromelain\| \|Disease/condition\|\|Treatment of partial deep dermal and full-thickness burns\| \|Date of decision\|\|30/07/2002\| \|Orphan decision number\|\|EU/3/02/107\| Review of designation During its meeting of 3-4 October 2012, the Committee for Orphan Medicinal Products (COMP) reviewed the designation EU/3/02/107 for NexoBrid (concentrate of proteolytic enzymes enriched in bromelain, previously known as purified bromelain) as an orphan medicinal product for the treatment of partial deep dermal and full-thickness burns. The COMP assessed whether, at the time of marketing authorisation, the medicinal product still met the criteria for orphan designation. The Committee looked at the seriousness and prevalence of the condition, and the existence of other satisfactory methods of treatment. As other satisfactory methods of treatment for patients with this condition are authorised in the European Union (EU), the COMP also looked at the significant benefit of the product over existing treatments. The COMP recommended that the orphan designation of the medicine be maintained. The maintenance of the orphan designation at time of marketing authorisation would, except in specific situations, give an orphan medicinal product 10 years of market exclusivity in the EU. This means that in the 10 years after its authorisation similar products with a comparable therapeutic indication cannot be placed on the market. - Life-threatening or long-term debilitating nature of the condition The Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) recommended the authorisation of NexoBrid for ‘removal of eschar in adults with deep partial- and full-thickness thermal burns’. This falls within the scope of the product’s designated orphan indication, which is ‘treatment of partial deep dermal and full-thickness burns’. The COMP concluded that there had been no change in the seriousness of the condition since the orphan designation in 2002. Partial deep dermal and full-thickness burns remain a condition that is debilitating in the long term and life-threatening, particularly due to infection and sepsis (when bacteria and their toxins circulate in the blood and damage the organs), acute respiratory-distress syndrome (failure of the lungs causing severe difficulty breathing), hypovolaemia (loss of blood volume) and extensive scarring that might prevent normal mobility. - Prevalence of the condition The sponsor provided updated data on annual numbers of patients hospitalised for burn wounds from available databases and the scientific literature. On the basis of the information provided by the sponsor and the knowledge of the COMP, the Committee concluded that the prevalence of partial deep dermal and full-thickness burns remained below the ceiling for orphan designation, which is 5 people in 10,000. At the time of the review of the orphan designation, the prevalence was still estimated to be approximately 1 person in 10,000. This is equivalent to a total of around 51,000 people in the EU. - Existence of other satisfactory methods of treatment At the time of the review of the orphan designation, other methods were authorised in the EU for the treatment of partial deep dermal and full-thickness burns. Surgery was still the most direct method of debridement, which involves the removal of eschar (dead tissue) from the wound before further treatment. Some antibiotic medicines, as well as medicines containing enzymes to clean dead tissue and infected burns, were also authorised for use in burns patients. - Significant benefit over existing treatments The COMP concluded that the claim of a significant benefit of NexoBrid in the treatment of partial deep dermal and full-thickness burns was justified because, when compared with standard debridement treatment in a study involving 156 hospitalised burns patients, it was shown to reduce the need for surgery as well as the extent of skin grafting required (decreasing trauma, pain and scarring for the patient). Therefore, although other satisfactory methods for the treatment of this condition had been authorised in the EU, the COMP concluded that NexoBrid is of significant benefit for patients affected by partial deep dermal and full-thickness burns. Based on the data submitted and the scientific discussion within the COMP, the COMP considered that NexoBrid still meets the criteria for designation as an orphan medicinal product and that it should remain in the Community register of orphan medicinal products. \|Name\|\|Language\|\|First published\|\|Last updated\| \|Recommendation for maintenance of orphan designation at the time of marketing authorisation: NexoBrid (concentrate of proteolytic enzymes enriched in bromelain) for the treatment of partial deep dermal and full-thickness burns\|\|(English only)\|\|07/01/2013\| Sponsor’s contact details Teva Pharma GmbH Tel. +49 6105 97 676 17 Fax +49 6105 97 767 60 For contact details of patients’ organisations whose activities are targeted at rare diseases, see: - Orphanet, a database containing information on rare diseases which includes a directory of patients’ organisations registered in Europe; - European Organisation for Rare Diseases (EURORDIS), a non-governmental alliance of patient organisations and individuals active in the field of rare diseases.
Not moving or able to move quickly; proceeding at a low speed: a slow train; slow walkers. (adjective) Marked by a retarded tempo: a slow waltz. (adjective) Taking or requiring a long time: the slow job of making bread. (adjective) Taking more time than is usual: a slow worker; slow progress in the peace negotiations. (adjective) Allowing movement or action only at a low speed: a slow track; a slow infield. (adjective) Registering a time or rate behind or below the correct one: a slow clock. (adjective) Lacking in promptness or willingness; not precipitate: They were slow to accept our invitation. (adjective) Characterized by a low volume of sales or transactions: Business was slow today. (adjective) Lacking liveliness or interest; boring: a slow party. (adjective) Not having or exhibiting intellectual or mental quickness: a slow learner. (adjective) Only moderately warm; low: a slow oven. (adjective) So as to fall behind the correct time or rate: The watch runs slow. (adverb) At a low speed: Go slow! (adverb) To make slow or slower. (verb-transitive) To delay; retard. (verb-transitive) To become slow or slower. (verb-intransitive) Examples of word Slow You see the hog's back trail was fifteen miles shorter than the Valley road and they could afford to go it slow; in fact, _very slow_. This was a very slow business, and _too slow_ to suit me, yet I continued to run it about three months, when by repeated losses on decayed fruit, and the too frequent visits of relatives and friends, we found the business in an unhealthy condition and lost no time in looking up a buyer, which we were fortunate in finding and successful in getting a good price from. His is a good example of what I term slow farming. In today's New York Times, media writer Jeremy W. Peters examines what he characterizes as a slow decline of the Los Angeles Times newspaper since being bought in 2000 by The Tribune Company. In today s New York Times, media writer Jeremy W. Peters examines what he characterizes as a slow decline of the Los Angeles Times newspaper since...
Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme that is found predominantly in the liver; lesser quantities are found in the kidneys, heart, and skeletal muscle. Injury or disease affecting the liver parenchyma will cause a release of this hepatocellular enzyme into the bloodstream, thus elevating serum ALT levels. Alanine Aminotransferase test is used to identify hepatocellular diseases of the liver. It is also an accurate monitor of improvement or worsening of these diseases. In jaundiced patients an abnormal alanine aminotransferase (ALT) will incriminate the liver rather than red blood cell (RBC) hemolysis as a source of the jaundice. Most ALT elevations are caused by liver dysfunction. Therefore this enzyme is not only sensitive but also quite specific for hepatocellular disease. In hepatocellular disease other than viral hepatitis the ALT/AST (aspartate aminotransferase) ratio (DeRitis ratio) is less than 1. In viral hepatitis the ratio is greater than 1. This is helpful in the diagnosis of viral hepatitis. Causes of False Alanine Aminotransferase Indications Alanine Aminotransferase levels are sensitive to medications. The following is a list of medications that may increase Alanine Aminotransferase levels: - Aminosalicylic Acid. - Isoniazid (INH). - Nalidixic acid. - Oral Contraceptives. High Alanine Aminotransferase Levels may occur if the patient is given an Intramuscular Injection prior to the test. Normal Alanine Aminotransferase Levels Alanine Aminotransferase levels are the highest among infants. Infant levels of ALT may normally reach as twice as ALT levels in adults. An elderly may also has a higher ALT level than an adult. As with several Liver enzymes, African Americans tend to normally have lower Alanine Aminotransferase levels than other races. The normal Alanine Aminotransferase level range for both Adults and Children is between 4 to 36 international units/L at 37° C (98.6° F). Causes of High Alanine Aminotransferase Levels Injury or disease affecting the liver, heart, or skeletal muscles will cause a release of Alanine Aminotransferase into the bloodstream which mildly increase serum Alanine Aminotransferase levels. This mild increase in ALT levels can be an indication of : - Myocardial infarction. - Infectious mononucleosis. Moderate increase in Alanine Aminotransferase levels can be caused by any of the following; - Hepatic Tumor. - Hepatotoxic Drugs. - Obstructive Jaundice. - Severe Burns. - Trauma to Striated Muscl. Significantly high Alanine Aminotransferase level can be an indication of Hepatitis, Hepatic necrosis, or Hepatic Ischemia.
Probably the most pivotal time for a beef cow to maintain a position in the beef herd is the first three months after her first calf is born. This young cow is barely two years old and many things are happening to her. As a two year old, she is not a mature cow. She still has nutrient requirements for growth. Nutrient needs have been increasing steadily during her last trimester of pregnancy for the fetus; now she has a calf and her nutrient requirements are increasing even more for lactation. Peak lactation will not occur until about eight to nine weeks after the calf is born. If she is to remain on a 365 day calving interval, she must rebreed by 80 to 85 days after calving, which is shortly after peak lactation. It is important to remember that if a cow cannot meet all these demands, resumption of the estrous cycle will be the first to be compromised. Dr. Rick Rasby, UNL Beef Specialist in Lincoln summarized research that determined thin (body condition score < 5) young cows had a 36% to 66% pregnancy rate, while young cows maintained in good body condition had a 91% pregnancy rate. (See summary http://beef.unl.edu/web/cattleproduction/nutrient2007 ). Many producers have integrated crops and livestock operations and by the time the intense activity of calving is over, they are busy preparing for spring planting. When so many other pressing issues are at hand, it is easy to overlook the body condition of the young cow. By the time her drop in condition is noticed, it may not be possible for her to gain enough condition to rebreed in a timely manner. It is important for producers to monitor body condition and body condition score changes in the young cow before calving through breeding. A guide to understanding body condition scoring and how to use it to manage the nutritional needs of the cow can be found at the following link: http://www.ianrpubs.unl.edu/sendIt/ec281.pdf. Additionally, there is an app to help with body condition scoring at http://beef.unl.edu/modules-apps-webinars. The 1996 Nutrient Requirements for Beef Cows (NRC) estimates the young cow needs a diet high in total digestible nutrients (around 68% TDN) and crude protein content (CP) around 12.5% to be in a positive energy and metabolizable protein balance when her needs are greatest. Feeding 20 lbs. of hay that contains 60% TDN and 3 lbs. of dried distillers grains (DM basis) to a 1000 lbs. cow could meet this demand or 15 lbs. of wheat straw and 8 lbs. of wet distillers (DM basis) could meet it. The TDN content of most pastures in April, May, and June can also supply this need if the quantity of growth is enough to support the forage intake of the number of head grazing. If producers have pastures containing predominately cool season grass species, it is important to note these experience peak growth in June. Even producers with predominately warm season pastures may note a decrease in forage quality if rainfall is limited in July and August. Therefore, if young cows are to be bred in July and August, producers need to be aware that the %TDN of these pastures may be in the mid to low 50’s and the CP may be below 7%. In this situation, cow condition must be monitored carefully and a protein and energy supplement is likely needed. Feeds such as distillers grains, field peas, range cubes, or other regionally available high energy by-products may be warranted. Source: Karla H. Jenkins, UNL Cow/Calf, Range Management Specialist
To get license or Study Medicine in Europe, role of France can not be forgotten in European medicine. France is a Western European country, it is also the sixth worlds and third European economic power after Germany and United Kingdom. French is the Official language and population is 66.3 million people (2016 est). France has one of the most developed health care system in the world. The infant mortality rate is lower than European union . Female life expectancy remains higher than that of men. More information about country’s health profile and statistical data can be seen here More health statistics can bee seen here Undergraduate Medical Education France has one of the best study medicine in Europe model. Whole basic medical education is conducted in French Language. Undergraduate medical education in France starts after 15 years of school education and entry into medical school is after passing a competitive exam. (more information about structure of education can be seen here). Students have to enter into first year of premedical/health studies education and have to pass exam at the end of the year to get formally into undergraduate medical education. It is referred to as health license in France. Faculty of Medicine of University of Paris Descartis offers 6 year MD program entry requirements are: For local and European national students: -Register for FYHS (First Year of Health Studies) For non-European national students: -Register for FYHS (First Year of Health Studies) Usually only 8% of foreigners are admitted in the basic undergraduate medical program. For local, European or non European national student who haven’t finished their basic medical education (whichever year they are studying in) if they want to continue to their education in France they should study first year and pass the examination and after that they can be allowed to study in their year of previous education in their home country. Medical studies are organized in three cycles and lead to the State Diploma of Doctor of Medicine (MD) - 1st cycle – 2 years - 2nd cycle – 4 years - 3rd cycle offers two possible paths: General medicine or other specialties that lead to the Diploma of Specialized Studies Medical students graduate after second cycle of medical studies and they can continue third cycle leading to their residency training.But they also have to pass ECN exam. EU/EEA/Swiss confederation, Andorra graduates: This exam allows them to access to specialty (11 specialties, including General practice) more information about it can be found here. After passing exam foreign doctors will be ranked and allocated into residency program according to their exam result and other criteria. Duration of specialty training depends on chosen specialty i.e. General medicine training is for 3 yearn while for other specialties it can range from 4 to 5 years. For Non-EU/EEA/Swiss graduates: For complete specialization in France: Foreign doctors can get residency training in France but they should pass an exam ” concours d’internat à titre d’étranger ” which is organized by the National Management Center but very few positions are opened and some specialties are offered. For partial specialization in France: Foreign doctors who is not specialist yet can get a Specialized Medical Training Diploma for 1 year A foreign physician specialist can prepare a specialized medical training diploma from, 6 months to 1 year Licence / Registration National Council of the College of Physician is authorized body for licensing and registration of foreign medical and dental graduates in France. French, EU, EEA and Swiss graduates can work in France without passing a license examination. For more information see procedure section. Foreign medical graduate Non EU medical graduates can work as General practitioners or Specialists in France provided they fulfill eligibility criteria and pass licensing examination , “épreuves de verifications de connaissances “ They are the first step of the exercise authorization procedure (EAP) for foreign doctors registration in France organized by National Management Center. For medical students wishing to enroll in basic medical education in France - French baccalaureate or higher secondary school certificate - French language competency certificate (B2) - Application for entry in medical education For ECN (Residency Entry Exam for EU, EEA or Swiss medical graduates) - Being local student/, nationals of Member States of the European Union/, the Swiss Confederation,/ the Principality of Andorra or States Parties to the Agreement on the European Economic Area European - Basic Medical graduation certificate (equivalent to French 2nd cycle) For residency Entrance Examination for Non EU graduates “concours d’internat à titre étranger” - Being Non EU medical graduate - Certificate of competency of French language (B2) For partial specialization in France: 1-Be MD (medical doctor). 2-Hold a level French certificate B2 minimum. For licence/registration examination: License/registration examination for foreign doctors registration in France eligibility criteria is - Being non EU foreign medical graduate - Have already served for at least 3 years in the country of origin - Have French language certificate at B2 level (CEFR) 1. Residency process: Check eligibility criteria according to nationality group mentioned above then send complete relevant application form with list of documents (mentioned also in application forms) to the address mentioned below in documentation section 2. Licence/Registration examination EU, EEA and Swiss graduates can practice in France after registering in tableau des ordres des médecins français (table of order of French doctors). Non EU graduates wishing to be registered in France as general practitioners should apply for licensing examination by following this procedure: - Know the eligibility criteria - Each candidate will address during the registration period his application letter, with all documents by registered mail with return receipt requested, to the Regional Health Agency of his place of residence (in France). If the applicant resides abroad, he/she should send his/her application letter, under the same conditions, to the Addresses of regional health agencies in different region in France of his/her choice health - Candidates receive an invitation to the written tests of the specialty in which he/she registered for, taking place during a single day. - Candidate get authorization from Ministry of Health and they can then register in tableau des ordres des médecins français . 1. For Residency Training For EU,EEA,Swiss ECN The exam consists of nine clinical cases (3 cases per half day so 3 half-days) and finally, a Reading test Critique of Article on half a day. Each case (and the ACL) is scored 100 points, each accounting for 10% of the note. The final grade is a total of 1000 points. For Foreigners (Non EU) «concours d’internat à titre d’étranger» Examination of the foreigners ” concours d’internat à titre d’étranger “ is composed for 2 tests : - Eligibility test for residency (if not present in France it should be taken at French embassy or consulate, if already in France it should be taken at address mentioned below) - Residency Entrance examination test is taken place at following address Jean Monnet, 47, rue des Solets, 94533 Rungis; 2. For License/Registration Examination (épreuves de verifications de connaissances ) For license/registration examination for foreign doctors registration in France is composed for 2 tests: - Fundamental knowledge verification Test - Practical knowledge verification Test These tests vary from one specialty to another. Also see licensing exam information page 1. Residency Exam a) Documents required for Non EU graduates for an exam « concours d’internat à titre étranger» : - Fill Application for Registration for exam - A Declaration of Honor - Copy of identity card and copy of passport - Copy of university medical degree and transcript - A sworn statement attesting that the candidate is not a EU national - Copy of diploma of license/registration from home country - For persons residing in France, a readable photocopy residence permit All completed documents should be sent to : – For resident in France, by registered mail to the following address: National Center for Management, competitions department, to licensing, mobility-professional development, national unity medical assistance, ETR, building Le Ponant , 21 B, rue Leblanc, 75737 Paris Cedex 15; – For persons resident abroad, to the embassies of France, French Consulates. b) Documents For ECN (For EU, EEA, Swiss confid. nationals) - Fill ECN registration application form - The copy of the national identity card - The copy of basic medical qualification (degree/diploma) or if not graduated yet, a certificate issued by university that student is in the final year of medical studies. (Translated into French) The documents should be sent to a general director of the National Management Center (Le Ponant B 21 rue Leblanc 75737 PARIS cedex 15) 2. License/Registration Exam Documents of Registration/license exam for foreign doctors registration in France « des épreuve de verifications de connaissances » - Fill license exam registration application form - The copy of the national identity card or of passport and residence permit (if already in France) - A copy of basic medical qualification and transcript/mark sheet - Copy of license/registration certificate from health authority of home country. - Copy of French language proficiency certificate B2 level at least (CEFR) The documents should be sent to the Regional Health Agency. documents to register in tableau des ordres des médecins français .: for resident doctor salary ranges between 1.300 and 2.000 euro/month More detail list of salary per specialty in France can be seen here Detailed fee can be found here Postgraduate Medical Education Like rest of the Study Medicine in Europe options, during and after the DES (Diplomes d’Etudes Specialisées), foreign medical students may also complete Master research or professional Master from Faculty of Medicine of University of Paris Descartis is for two years of study. After that a 3 year PhD can be completed. There are always CME (Continuous Medical Education) credits doctors can be earned by attending conferences and seminars organized by Ministry of Health of France, National Management Center and many others. Note: (Read our FAQs page . If you still don’t understand something leave a comment below. Also we offer our professional service for application and documentation for France. Kindly email on firstname.lastname@example.org for further details and service)
Community Food Conversations: Engaging Diverse Communities in Determining Policy Priorities *Names in bold indicate Presenter As part of the assessment, there was a need to identify opportunities to prioritize policy changes and implement strategies that will engage community residents in a meaningful way. In order to engage diverse voices understand local resident goals and values related to their community food system, the Coalition conducted a series of Community Food Conversations. Glendale (n=33), Tempe (n=18), and South Phoenix (n=48) were the three cities in the Phoenix metropolitan area chosen because they were at different stages of food system improvement (early with few activities versus advanced with multiple food system improvement activities). These were also communities with diverse, low- to medium-income populations underrepresented in the Coalition, where Coalition members had strong connections with community members who could help successfully carry out these sessions. Methods: A hybrid “community listening session” community forum and focus group qualitative methods. Volunteer Coalition members each took on roles of Lead Facilitator, Co-Facilitator, and Observer-Notetaker. FACT members were ultimately responsible for the entirety of the process, as consultants were hired for the roles of training and guidance. Lead Facilitators worked closely with a Site Lead in each city to coordinate the sessions and recruit attendees. Community members recruited were English and/or Spanish-speaking adults and/or accompanied minors who reside in the targeted communities. Two phases of data collection took place. Each site hosted the first community listening session using uniform questions. The second session explored more deeply the themes uncovered in the first session. All sessions were recorded and transcripts were coded to identify major themes. Following the sessions, session facilitators and observers responded to an open-ended survey distributed to improve this process in the future. Results: Residents in all three cities raised issues and opportunities for policy action around quality, affordability, access, education, and equity. Significantly, value food as a way to build relationships and foster a sense of community and belonging. These qualitative data were triangulated with data collected from an economic community food network analysis, county community health needs assessment data, and a survey to evaluate food access and diet-related health conducted with the Maricopa County Department of Public Health. These results will go onto inform the Coalition’s local policy priorities as well as relevant municipal food and sustainability action plans. This experience highlights possible opportunities to triangulate multiple datasets around and opportunities to involve residents in urban policymaking.
Summary of the project Many research shows that strategies for self-regulated learning, including (as main component) metacognitive strategies, have impact on academic achievement. Numerous (quasi-)experiments are carried out to train students of various ages (ranging from early elementary school up to university students) in enhancing their metacognition and/or capacity to self regulate their learning. This improvement in skills should also improve their academic performance, since metacognition has an own, unique contribution to academic outcomes, next to intelligence (Veenman, Wilhelm & Beishuizen, 2004). As metacognition and self-regulated learning are broad constructs, many components can be included in training to enhance it. For instance, when relating it to the learning phases of Zimmerman (2008), we distinguish strategies for planning, monitoring and evaluating. These categories can be separated into many sub categories which all have their own strategies to improve learning (for instance, in the monitoring phase, there are strategies for comprehension, memorizing, elaboration of content, etc.). However, it is unclear which components are most influential, or, in other words, which strategies have the strongest influence on academic achievement. This meta-analysis aims to answer this question. A literature search on the databases ERIC and PsychInfo was conducted. Search terms were “metacognit” and “self-reg” and the literature had to be published between 2000 and 2010, to cover the latest decennium of research. Other criteria are described in the paper. We focus on primary and secondary education and this led to a total amount of around 60 articles, describing around 70 studies, in our analysis. A coding scheme was developed to code each article, interrater reliability reached 0.90. Current status of the project: All studies are coded and analysis has been carried out. We are currently writing a paper, which we are planning to submit to a journal before summer.
\|Works with Excel 2000 (or later) only.\| 2010 (32 bit and 64 bit) 2007 2003 Tornado diagrams graphically display the result of single-factor sensitivity analysis. This lets one evaluate the risk associated with the uncertainty in each of the variables that affect the outcome. Single-factor analysis means that we measure the effect on the outcome of each factor, one at a time, while holding the others at their nominal (or base) value. The software adjusts each factor between the specified minimum (or low) and maximum (or high) values while recording the value of the outcome. It then plots the resulting data in a bar chart. A typical diagram looks like Figure 1, which shows the effect of four parameters on the result. The uncertainty in the parameter associated with the largest bar, the one at the top of the chart, has the maximum impact on the result, with each successive lower bar having a lesser impact. This arrangement is why the result is called a Tornado Diagram. For installation instructions see Common Installation Instructions. Once loaded, in 2007 or later, use the TM tab \| Data Analysis group \| Tornado Diagram button or, in 2003 or earlier, use the TM menu \| TM Tornado sub-menu > Tornado Diagram... menu item. For more click the Online Documentation link below.
If you're driving on a bridge during an earthquake, your vehicle's shock absorbers could affect the impact. In some cases, the suspension system can help dissipate potentially destructive energy, but it can also exacerbate the effect by tossing the vehicle back and forth. Now, Ian Buckle and colleagues at the Center for Civil Engineering Earthquake Research at the University of Nevada, Reno have built a full-scale bridge in the largest earthquake simulator in the world to investigate what really happens. The researchers loaded up real trucks on the bridge, which is set on top of four shake tables. They used data from the 1994 Northridge earthquake near Los Angeles to replicate realistic seismic motion. Preliminary results indicate that for small earthquakes, trucks help the performance of the bridge. But the team will soon recreate earthquakes three to four times as intense as the Northridge quake to verify if the effect still holds. Human surgeons work miracles on a daily basis, but intricate operations can challenge even the most dextrous of hands. More and more, surgical robots, such as Da Vinci from Intuitive Surgical in Sunnyvale, CA, are providing a stable assist. In this video, a urology fellow at Southmead Hospital and the North Bristol NHS Trust in Bristol, UK, peels a grape. Using a specially designed display and teleoperation controls, he is able to see both real and virtual representations of what the robot's instruments are doing. The robot has four arms, three of which can hold instruments like a scalpel or surgical scissors. The fourth arm carries an endoscopic camera with two lenses, which gives him a stereoscopic view of the action. The US department of defense is now looking at incorporating similar robots into "Trauma Pods" - partially automated field hospitals capable of caring for severely wounded soldiers while they wait to be evacuated. In 2009, the da Vinci system was inducted into the robot hall of fame. When the first people set foot on Mars, what will be the most efficient gait for them to use? To find out, Australian artist Adam Norton is strapping people into his Martian gravity simulator and getting them to perform laps (see video above). The design is based on NASA lunar gravity simulators used before the Apollo moon landings to investigate how astronauts should safely move around in low gravity. They found that it was easier to bounce than walk. Since mass and horizontal inertia are the same as on Earth, but the force pulling down is much less, you don't need to take as many steps to get around. The gravity on Mars is a little more than twice that of the moon's, so Norton's device is inclined at a less extreme angle. He's investigating how this affects speed and endurance and the transition speed from walking to running. So far, he found that it's easier to run and jump on the simulator than on the ground. "I think a long bounding stride will become the norm on Mars," says Norton. Ever considered thumb-wrestling a mantis? In this video, a pet Devil's Flower mantis unleashes its own brand of kung-fu on its owner's fleshy digit. Typically, a mantis protects itself by mimicking its surroundings. But if directly threatened, it will stand tall and fan out its limbs to scare off predators. In this case, the persistent harassment called for a last resort tactic: striking with its forelegs and attempting to pinch its opponent while producing a hissing sound. Despite occasional aggressive behaviour, the species is popular among mantis keepers. It's one of the largest flower-mimicking mantises and many are attracted by its bizarre shape, impressive colouration and rarity. However, they can also be hard to breed in captivity. An online guide put together by Gary Symes and Craig Smith offers husbandry techniques to those intent on keeping a Devil's Flower mantis as a pet. Some key advice includes providing a large number of flies for them to feed on and ensuring there are surfaces on which they can move around and moult. The team designed the arm by using computer models derived from measurements of real octopuses in the lab. Then they created the artificial limb from soft rubber embedded with artificial muscle fibres, allowing it to flex or stretch when an electric potential is applied. It's also equipped with contact sensors, placed under the surface, that detect an object in its reach. But the goal isn't just to create a limb: the researchers are now investigating how to coordinate multiple appendages to better replicate the dexterous motion of an octopus. "The arms will be controlled based on a neural network," says Laura Margheri, a member of the team. "We'll be trying to exploit the mechanical adaptability of an octopus's limbs to ensure a safe interaction with objects and its environment." The researchers also plan to improve the arm's sensing system by copying the way receptors in muscles detect the motion or position of a limb. By incorporating this feedback, it should grasp objects more precisely. The team will also be looking at how to make the robo-octopus move on different terrains. It's the latest physics action flick: ferrofluid and red dye racing through soap bubbles, drawn by capillary action, diffusion and magnetism (see video above). Filmed by designer Kim Pimmel, the close-up scene was captured on a set the size of a business card over a period of a week. "The materials were tough to work with," says Pimmel. "Bubbles naturally want to collapse and ferrofluid stains everything." Michael Wagner of Michigan State University exposed a group of lampreys to a mixture of chemicals from putrefying carcasses and ethanol. Another group was subjected to a similar amount of plain ethanol as a control. The animals exposed to the death-scented chemicals jumped out of the tank with a panic-like response. Sea lampreys are an invasive species in the US Great Lakes. They live as parasites on the bodies of lake trout and other commercially-important fish and have contributed to collapsing fish stocks in the region. Stirring cream into your coffee is a done deal: it's unlikely you'll be able to revert it back to a cup of black coffee. But unmixing fluids isn't impossible, you just need to choose the right ones (see video above). John DeMoss and Kevin Cahill of the University of New Mexico developed the apparatus shown in this video, which is made up of a hollow cylinder with a rotating tube inside it. In this experiment, the space between the cylinders is filled with corn syrup. Drops of food dye are then added and the inner cylinder is rotated slowly, mixing the layers in an orderly fashion. But the real fun happens when the cylinder's rotation is reversed. This effectively returns the fluid to its initial state, along with the three drops of different coloured dye. Most snails wouldn't try to capture a speedy crab for dinner. But moon snails are up for the challenge and their bizarre behaviour has now been caught on camera for the first time (see video above). Thomas Huelsken, a biologist at the University of Queensland in Australia, headed to the beach armed with soldier crabs, moon snails and a digital camera. When he placed snails near the crabs, each snail would creep up on a crab and grab it using its flexible foot. The snails would then immobilise the crabs by wrapping the foot around them and coating them with mucus. Victims were then dragged under the sand, where the snails would use their teeth to drill a hole through the crab's shell. Finally, the snail would suck crab meat out of the incision while the poor crustacean was still alive.
Case of the Yean and Bosico Children v. The Dominican Republic Inter-American Court of Human Rights September 8, 2005 Article 7: Name and Nationality Other International Provisions: American Convention on Human Rights (Article 3: Right to juridical protection; Article 5: Right to humane treatment; Article 8: Right to fair trial; Article 12: Freedom of conscience and religion; Article 17: Rights of the family; Article 18: Right to a name; Article 19: Rights of the child; Article 20: Right to nationality; Article 24: Right to equal protection; Article 25: Right to judicial protection) International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Article 24: Children's rights) International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (Article 29. Rights of Children of Migrant Workers to Name and Nationality) Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Article 15: Right to Nationality) American Declaration of the Rights and Duties of Man (Article 19: Right to Nationality) Dilcia Yean and Violeta Bosico were girls of Haitian descent born in the Dominican Republic to Dominican citizen mothers. The Dominican Registry Office, however, refused to issue birth certificates for the children even though the Dominican Constitution recognises that every child born in Dominican territory is a Dominican citizen. The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights filed an application with the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, alleging that the Dominican government's discriminatory policies had rendered Yean and Bosico stateless and forced them to live in very vulnerable circumstances. The Commission alleged numerous violations of the American Convention on Human Rights, and presented evidence that – among other things – Bosico had been unable to attend school for one year because she did not have an identity document. Issues and resolution: Statelessness; birth registration; discrimination. The Court found that the Dominican Republic had violated the children's rights in denying them citizenship from birth, and urged the Dominican government to adopt laws that guarantee a simple and accessible route to nationality. The Court found that the Dominican Republic had acted arbitrarily and contrary to the best interests of the child in denying Yean and Bosico birth certificates, which amounted to a violation of their rights to a nationality and to equal protection under Articles 20 and 24 of the American Convention on Human Rights. Moreover, because the children did not have a nationality, the Court looked to the CRC for interpretive guidance and found that the children's rights to protection under Article 18 of the American Convention had also been violated as they were not recognised by the country they lived in and hence could not receive social assistance. Finally, the Court ruled that in violating these rights, the Dominican Republic had further exposed Yean and Bosico's families to a great deal of uncertainty and insecurity, and had hence violated family members' right to humane treatment under Article 5 of the American Convention. Excerpts citing CRC and other relevant human rights instruments: 134. This Court has stated that the cases in which the victims of human rights violations are children are particularly serious. The prevalence of the child’s superior interest should be understood as the need to satisfy all the rights of the child, and this obliges the State and affects the interpretation of the other rights established in the Convention when the case refers to children. Moreover, the State must pay special attention to the needs and the rights of the alleged victims owing to their condition as girl children, who belong to a vulnerable group. 185. In addition to the above, the Court considers that the vulnerability to which the children were exposed as a result of the lack of nationality and juridical personality was also reflected, in the case of the child Violeta Bosico, by the fact that she was prevented from attending day school at the Palavé School during the 1998-1999 school year. It was precisely because she had no birth certificate that she was forced to study at evening school, for individuals over 18 years of age, during this period. This fact also exacerbated her situation of vulnerability, because she did not receive the special protection, due to her as a child, of attending school during appropriate hours together with children of her own age, instead of with adults (supra paras. 109(34), 109(35) and 109(36)). It is worth noting that, according to the child’s right to special protection embodied in Article 19 of the American Convention, interpreted in light of the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Additional Protocol to the American Convention on Human Rights in the Area of Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, in relation to the obligation to ensure progressive development contained in Article 26 of the American Convention, the State must provide free primary education to all children in an appropriate environment and in the conditions necessary to ensure their full intellectual development. From Separate Opinion of Judge A.A. Cançado Trindade: 8. The right to nationality is effectively a right inherent in the human being, embodied as a non-derogable right in the American Convention on Human Rights (Articles 20 and 27), as emphasized in this judgment (para. 136). It is also protected under the 1966 United Nations International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Article 24(3)), the United Nations 1989 Convention on the Rights of the Child (Article 7), and the 1990 International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (Article 29), and also in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Article 15) and the American Declaration of the Rights and Duties of Man (Article 19) of 1948. In October 2005, the Senate of the Dominican Republic issued a resolution rejecting the decision of the Inter-American Court. In December of that year, the country's Supreme Court issued a decision in direct defiance of the judgment of the Inter-American Court by upholding a law that deemed undocumented migrants as being "in transit" and hence not officially present in the territory. In July 2009, amendments were passed to the Dominican Constitution to delete provisions automatically granting citizenship to all children born in Dominican territory, to take effect at a later date. CRIN believes that this decision is consistent with the CRC. Under article 7 of the Convention, children “shall be registered immediately after birth” and have the right to a name and to acquire a nationality. These obligations are even stronger “where the child would otherwise be stateless”, as was the case in the circumstances around this case. CRIN also believes that the steps taken by the Dominican Senate and Supreme Court run contrary to the CRC, and strongly urges the government to recognise all children born in the territory as full citizens. Case of the Yean and Bosico Children v. The Dominican Republic, Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACrtHR), 8 September 2005 Link to Full Judgment: This case summary is provided by the Child Rights Information Network for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice.
Because they refused to pledge allegiance to the Nazi party or serve in the military, Jehovah's Witnesses were sent to concentration camps, where they were identified by purple triangles and given the option of renouncing their faith and submitting to the state's authority. The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum estimates that between 2,700 and 3,300 were sent to the camps, where 1,400 died; in The Holocaust Encyclopedia (2001), Sybil Milton estimates that 10,000 were sent and 2,500 died. According to German historian Detlef Garbe, "no other religious movement resisted the pressure to conform to National Socialism with comparable unanimity and steadfastness." I'm 15 years old, and visited Auschwitz and Auschwitz Birkenau about a month ago on a school trip. It was an incredibly moving experience, and something I think everyone should visit at least once i their life. I know for sure that one day I will take my children and even grandchildren, as it is just so important for future generations to learn as much as they can about what happened so that we can be sure it will never, ever happen again. Responding to domestic pressures to act on behalf of Jewish refugees, U.S. Pres. Franklin D. Roosevelt convened, but did not attend, the Évian Conference on resettlement, in Évian-les-Bains, France, in July 1938. In his invitation to government leaders, Roosevelt specified that they would not have to change laws or spend government funds; only philanthropic funds would be used for resettlement. Britain was assured that Palestine would not be on the agenda. The result was that little was attempted and less accomplished. ——— (2015). "Is the "Final Solution" Unique?". The Third Reich in History and Memory. London: Abacus. ISBN 978-0-349-14075-9. Revised and extended from Richard Evans (2011). "Wie einzigartig war die Ermordung der Juden durch die Nationalsocialisten?" in Günter Morsch and Bertrand Perz (eds). Neue Studien zu nationalsozialistischen Massentötungen durch Giftgas: Historische Bedeutung, technische Entwicklung, revisionistische Leugnung. Berlin: Metropol Verlag, pp. 1–10. ISBN 9783940938992 Similarly, in Ordinary Men (1992), Christopher Browning examined the deeds of German Reserve Police Battalion 101 of the Ordnungspolizei ("order police"), used to commit massacres and round-ups of Jews, as well as mass deportations to the death camps. The members of the battalion were middle-aged men of working-class background from Hamburg, who were too old for regular military duty. They were given no special training. During the murder of 1,500 Jews from Józefów in Poland, their commander allowed them to opt out of direct participation. Fewer than 12 men out of a battalion of 500 did so. Influenced by the Milgram experiment on obedience, Browning argued that the men killed out of peer pressure, not bloodlust. In early 1943, the Nazis implemented the liquidation of the Krakow Jewish population and opened up the Plaszow work camp, run by the notoriously sadistic commandant, Amon Göth. Schindler cultivated a relationship with Göth, and whenever any of his workers were threatened with deportation to a concentration camp or execution, Schindler managed to provide a black-market gift or bribe to save their lives. The Allies believed that 'blitzkrieg' was dependent on new technology, such as tanks and dive-bombers © Shocked by their experience, the Allied military observers who had survived the fall of France attributed their defeat to the completely new form of warfare pioneered by the Wehrmacht - the blitzkrieg. Blitzkrieg seemed to be based around the pervasive use of new technology. After all, during the disastrous campaign in Belgium and France, it had seemed as if German tanks and aircraft were everywhere. On May 8, 1945, the war in Europe ended, and the next day Schindler and his wife fled the country with the help of several of the Schindlerjuden, as the Jews he saved came to be known. Schindler was wanted for war crimes in Czechoslovakia due to his earlier espionage activities. In 1949 they settled in Argentina with several of the Jewish families they had saved. Having spent the bulk of his profiteering fortune on bribes, Schindler unsuccessfully attempted to farm. He went bankrupt in 1957 and the next year traveled alone to West Germany, where he made an abortive entry into the cement business. Schindler spent the rest of his life supported by donations from the Schindlerjuden. He was named a Righteous Gentile by Yad Vashem in 1962 and was interred in the Catholic cemetery on Mount Zion in Jerusalem. The Nazis targeted Jews, Gypsies, homosexuals, Jehovah's Witnesses, Communists, twins, and the disabled. Some of these people tried to hide from the Nazis, like Anne Frank and her family. A few were successful; most were not. Those that were captured suffered sterilization, forced resettlement, separation from family and friends, beatings, torture, starvation, and death. Learn more about the victims of Nazi cruelty, both the children and adults. Birkenau was subdivided into several sections, fairly isolated from one another, and each supporting its own unique cultural scene. There was a men’s camp, a women’s camp, and two ‘family camps’, one for Roma and Sinti, and the other for Jews brought from Theresienstadt. Both ‘family camps’ were eventually liquidated, but before then the inmates were allowed to live in relatively better conditions than the other inmates. They were not required to have their heads shaved, at least initially were given more generous rations and various other 'privileges', and above all were allowed to stay together as families. Each of these mini-camps supported its own band, as well as a variety of singing, performing and instrumental groups. In the course of one recent 24-hour blitzkrieg, the Say Cheese Instagram (342,000 followers and counting) — which Cotton maintains along with one full-time employee — averaged a post an hour. — Jeff Weiss, latimes.com, "How Instagram and YouTube help underground hip-hop artists and tastemakers find huge audiences," 4 July 2018 While Trump traveled to Europe for NATO meetings Tuesday, Vice President Mike Pence accompanied Kavanaugh to Capitol Hill and led a blitzkrieg of media appearances. — latimes.com, "Democrats hope Obamacare fears will derail Kavanaugh as White House moves to soften his image," 11 July 2018 But their emergent defense might be the difference between this season's playoff run and last year's failure, when the D wore out in the face of the Patriots' ball-control Super Bowl blitzkrieg. — Nate Davis, USA TODAY, "20 things we learned during NFL wild-card weekend," 7 Jan. 2018 But that all ended in 2014, when Islamic State launched its blitzkrieg across Iraq’s northern regions. — Nabih Bulos, latimes.com, "Basra was once a jewel of a city. Now it's a symbol what's wrong in Iraq," 17 June 2018 Scooter startups are using similar blitzkrieg tactics, and cities are taking action. — NBC News, "The next Uber? Scooter startups flood U.S. cities as funding pours in," 9 July 2018 Thiem pushed Nadal deep behind the baseline with a blitzkrieg of groundstrokes. — Geoff Macdonald, New York Times, "Players to Watch at the French Open," 25 May 2018 Harmon’s brilliantly caustic play frames serious issues of Jewish identity within a breathtaking blitzkrieg of invective guaranteed to make your eardrums smolder. — Matt Cooper, latimes.com, "The week ahead in SoCal theater: 'Rodgers + Hammerstein's Cinderella' and more," 16 June 2018 The Mariners pulled off the latest blitzkrieg in a 7-1 win over the Astros on Tuesday at Minute Maid Park. — Hunter Atkins, Houston Chronicle, "Dallas Keuchel struggles in Astros' loss to Mariners," 5 June 2018 November 4, 1943 - Quote from Nazi newspaper, Der Stürmer, published by Julius Streicher - "It is actually true that the Jews have, so to speak, disappeared from Europe and that the Jewish 'Reservoir of the East' from which the Jewish pestilence has for centuries beset the peoples of Europe has ceased to exist. But the Führer of the German people at the beginning of the war prophesied what has now come to pass." The Nazis used the phrase Lebensunwertes Leben (life unworthy of life) in reference to the disabled and mentally ill. On 14 July 1933, the Law for the Prevention of Hereditarily Diseased Offspring (Gesetz zur Verhütung erbkranken Nachwuchses), the Sterilization Law, was passed, allowing for compulsory sterilization. The New York Times reported on 21 December that year: "400,000 Germans to be sterilized". There were 84,525 applications from doctors in the first year. The courts reached a decision in 64,499 of those cases; 56,244 were in favor of sterilization. Estimates for the number of involuntary sterilizations during the whole of the Third Reich range from 300,000 to 400,000. ^ These are some of the many notable historians that have casually used the term blitzkrieg—including some who have written on its misconception—to describe several Wehrmacht military operations that were spearheaded by a dense concentration of armoured and motorised formations with the aim of delivering a breakthrough, and exploiting it with speed to paralyse and encircle the enemy: David Glantz (Glantz 2010, p. 14; Glantz 2009, p. 164; Glantz 2001), Jonathan House (Glantz & House 1999, pp. 254, 269; Glantz & House 1995, pp. 61, 125, 167, 226, 274, 286, 288), Lloyd Clark (Clark 2012, pp. 22–27, 187), Antony Beevor (Beevor 1999, pp. 13, 148; Beevor 2006, p. 157), Mungo Melvin (Melvin 2011, pp. 46, 79–80, 199), John Erickson (Erickson 2001, pp. 558, 567) and Steven Mercatante (Mercatante 2012, pp. 65, 77, 91, 301). Blitzkrieg means “lightning war”. It was an innovative military technique first used by the Germans in World War Two and was a tactic based on speed and surprise. Blitzkrieg relied on a military force be based around light tank units supported by planes and infantry (foot soldiers). The tactic was based on Alfred von Schlieffen’s ‘Schlieffen Plan’ – this was a doctrine formed during WWI that focused on quick miliatry victory. It was later developed in Germany by an army officer called Heinz Guderian who looked at new technologies, namely dive bombers and light tanks, to improve the German army’s manoeuvrability. The Nuremberg trials were a series of military tribunals, held by the Allied forces after World War II in Nuremberg, Germany, to prosecute prominent members of the political, military, and economic leadership of Nazi Germany. The first of these trials was the 1945–1946 trial of the major war criminals before the International Military Tribunal (IMT). This tribunal tried 22 political and military leaders of the Third Reich, except for Adolf Hitler, Heinrich Himmler, and Joseph Goebbels, all of whom had committed suicide several months before. On 7 November 1938, Herschel Grynszpan, a Polish Jew, shot the German diplomat Ernst vom Rath in the German Embassy in Paris, in retaliation for the expulsion of his parents and siblings from Germany.[k] When vom Rath died on 9 November, the government used his death as a pretext to instigate a pogrom against the Jews throughout the Third Reich. The government claimed it was spontaneous, but in fact it had been ordered and planned by Hitler and Goebbels, although with no clear goals, according to David Cesarani; the result, he writes, was "murder, rape, looting, destruction of property, and terror on an unprecedented scale". Adam Tooze wrote that the German economy was being prepared for a long war. The expenditure for this war was extensive and put the economy under severe strain. The German leadership were concerned less with how to balance the civilian economy and the needs of civilian consumption but to figure out how to best prepare the economy for total war. Once war had begun, Hitler urged his economic experts to abandon caution and expend all available resources on the war effort but the expansion plans only gradually gained momentum in 1941. Tooze wrote that the huge armament plans in the pre-war period did not indicate any clear-sighted blitzkrieg economy or strategy. After 1942, the economic functions of the camps, previously secondary to their penal and terror functions, came to the fore. Forced labor of camp prisoners became commonplace. The guards became much more brutal, and the death rate increased as the guards not only beat and starved prisoners, but killed them more frequently. Vernichtung durch Arbeit ("extermination through labor") was a policy—camp inmates would literally be worked to death, or to physical exhaustion, at which point they would be gassed or shot. The Germans estimated the average prisoner's lifespan in a concentration camp at three months, due to lack of food and clothing, constant epidemics, and frequent punishments for the most minor transgressions. The shifts were long and often involved exposure to dangerous materials. Who knew actor Ralph Fiennes would be so possessive of his Voldemort role from the Harry Potter movies? After all the hours sitting in a makeup chair, putting on a bald cap, and making his nose disappear day after day, you’d think Fiennes would be ok with never playing this evil character again—especially considering that he almost turned down the role in the first place. But it seems that the character really grew on the two-time Oscar nominee. As Screen Rant reports, Fiennes has made it clear that if Voldemort is ever needed in a future film, he's ready to come back. Of those who received numbers at Auschwitz-Birkenau, only 65,000 survived. It is estimated that only about 200,000 people who passed through the Auschwitz camps survived. Michael Bornstein was one of the lucky ones. Decades after the war, he learned from Auschwitz documents kept in Israel that he had survived because he was sick and the Nazis left him behind when they evacuated the camp. He said that he was one of only 52 children under the age of eight who lived. John Ellis wrote that "...there is considerable justice in Matthew Cooper's assertion that the panzer divisions were not given the kind of strategic mission that was to characterize authentic armoured blitzkrieg, and were almost always closely subordinated to the various mass infantry armies." Steven Zaloga wrote, "Whilst Western accounts of the September campaign have stressed the shock value of the panzer and Stuka attacks, they have tended to underestimate the punishing effect of German artillery on Polish units. Mobile and available in significant quantity, artillery shattered as many units as any other branch of the Wehrmacht." Throughout the 1930s, the legal, economic, and social rights of Jews were steadily restricted. On 1 April 1933, there was a boycott of Jewish businesses. On 7 April 1933, the Law for the Restoration of the Professional Civil Service was passed, which excluded Jews and other "non-Aryans" from the civil service. Jews were disbarred from practising law, being editors or proprietors of newspapers, joining the Journalists' Association, or owning farms. In Silesia, in March 1933, a group of men entered the courthouse and beat up Jewish lawyers; Friedländer writes that, in Dresden, Jewish lawyers and judges were dragged out of courtrooms during trials. Jewish students were restricted by quotas from attending schools and universities. Jewish businesses were targeted for closure or "Aryanization", the forcible sale to Germans; of the approximately 50,000 Jewish-owned businesses in Germany in 1933, about 7,000 were still Jewish-owned in April 1939. Works by Jewish composers, authors, and artists were excluded from publications, performances, and exhibitions. Jewish doctors were dismissed or urged to resign. The Deutsches Ärzteblatt (a medical journal) reported on 6 April 1933: "Germans are to be treated by Germans only." The generally accepted definition of blitzkrieg operations include the use of maneuver rather than attrition to defeat an opponent, and describe operations using combined arms concentration of mobile assets at a focal point, armour closely supported by mobile infantry, artillery and close air support assets. These tactics required the development of specialized support vehicles, new methods of communication, new tactics, and an effective decentralized command structure. Broadly speaking, blitzkrieg operations required the development of mechanized infantry, self-propelled artillery and engineering assets that could maintain the rate of advance of the tanks. German forces avoided direct combat in favour of interrupting an enemy's communications, decision-making, logistics and of reducing morale. In combat, blitzkrieg left little choice for the slower defending forces but to clump into defensive pockets that were encircled and then destroyed by following German infantry. A parallel system to the main camp in Auschwitz began to operate at the Birkenau camp by 1942. The exception, though, was that the majority of “showers” used to delouse the incoming prisoners proved to be gas chambers. At Birkenau, only about 10 percent of Jewish transports were registered, disinfected, shaven and showered in the “central sauna” before being assigned barracks as opposed to being sent directly to the death chambers. In June 2016, the Auschwitz-Birkenau museum in the Polish town of Oswiecim re-discovered over 16,000 personal items belonging to victims of Auschwitz-Birkenau that had been lost in 1968. The items were originally discovered in 1967 by archaeologists excavating the concentration camp site, and were placed in 48 cardboard boxes in the Polish Academy of Sciences in Warsaw before being lost due to an anti-Semitic communist regime coming to power in 1968. On 19 November 1942, the Red Army launched Operation Uranus, a two-pronged attack targeting the weaker Romanian and Hungarian armies protecting the German 6th Army's flanks. The Axis forces on the flanks were overrun and the 6th Army was cut off and surrounded in the Stalingrad area. Adolf Hitler ordered that the army stay in Stalingrad and make no attempt to break out; instead, attempts were made to supply the army by air and to break the encirclement from the outside. Heavy fighting continued for another two months. By the beginning of February 1943, the Axis forces in Stalingrad had exhausted their ammunition and food. The remaining units of the 6th Army surrendered. The battle lasted five months, one week and three days. Show less Ultimately, three SS guards were killed—one of whom was burned alive by the prisoners in the oven of Crematorium II—and 451 Sonderkommandos were killed. Hundreds of prisoners escaped, but all were soon captured and executed, along with an additional group who had participated in the revolt. Crematorium IV was destroyed in the fighting. A group of prisoners in the gas chamber of Crematorium V was spared in the chaos. December 8, 1941 - In occupied Poland, near Lodz, Chelmno extermination camp becomes operational. Jews taken there are placed in mobile gas vans and driven to a burial place while carbon monoxide from the engine exhaust is fed into the sealed rear compartment, killing them. The first gassing victims include 5,000 Gypsies who had been deported from the Reich to Lodz. Also in 1993, the United States Holocaust Memorial Council posthumously presented the Museum's Medal of Remembrance to Schindler. Rarely presented, this medal honors deserving recipients for extraordinary deeds during the Holocaust and in the cause of Remembrance. Emilie Schindler accepted the medal on behalf of her ex-husband at a ceremony in the Museum's Hall of Remembrance. Various other German industrial enterprises, such as Krupp and Siemens-Schuckert, built factories with their own subcamps. There were around 40 or 50 such camps, 28 of them near industrial plants, each camp holding hundreds or thousands of prisoners. Designated as Aussenlager (external camp), Nebenlager (extension or subcamp), or Arbeitslager (labor camp), camps were built at Blechhammer, Jawiszowice, Jaworzno, Lagisze, Mysłowice, Trzebinia, and centers as far afield as the Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia in Czechoslovakia. Industries with satellite camps included coal mines, foundries and other metal works, and chemical plants. Prisoners were also made to work in forestry and farming. Budy, for example, was a farming subcamp where prisoners worked 12-hour days, often in the fields, but sometimes tending animals, cleaning ponds, digging ditches, and making compost. Human ashes from the crematorium were mixed with sod and manure to make the compost. Incidents of sabotage to decrease production took place in several subcamps, including Charlottengrube, Gleiwitz II, and Rajsko. In March 1941, Himmler ordered a second, larger complex to be built next to the original camp. It was called Auschwitz II - Birkenau. The camp at Birkenau was divided into subsections surrounded by electric fences with barbed wire. During 1943 and 1944 the BIIb section became the location of the „Terezín family camp“. At its summit, Birkenau had over 100 000 inmates. In March 1942, the Auschwitz III camp was set up at nearby Monowitz, also known as Buna Monowitz. German company I.G. Farben set up a synthetic rubber factory there, in which it used the prisoners' slave labour. Auschwitz also had a further 45 auxiliary camps, where prisoners were forced to engage in slave labour, mostly for German companies. When Hitler came to power legally on January 30, 1933, as the head of a coalition government, his first objective was to consolidate power and to eliminate political opposition. The assault against the Jews began on April 1 with a boycott of Jewish businesses. A week later the Nazis dismissed Jews from the civil service, and by the end of the month the participation of Jews in German schools was restricted by a quota. On May 10 thousands of Nazi students, together with many professors, stormed university libraries and bookstores in 30 cities throughout Germany to remove tens of thousands of books written by non-Aryans and those opposed to Nazi ideology. The books were tossed into bonfires in an effort to cleanse German culture of “un-Germanic” writings. A century earlier Heinrich Heine—a German poet of Jewish origin—had said, “Where one burns books, one will, in the end, burn people.” In Nazi Germany the time between the burning of Jewish books and the burning of Jews was eight years. As some needed to point out, this is a fictionalized account of historical events and a genuine hero. Some historical persons were combined to make one character in the book and some time frames were condensed. Oskar Schindler was a deeply flawed man, brought to greatness by living through a time of horror in a position where he could make a small, but real difference. The condensations of those true events in this book are masterful. A great book! Auschwitz, the largest and arguably the most notorious of all the Nazi death camps, opened in the spring of 1940. Its first commandant was Rudolf Höss (1900-47), who previously had helped run the Sachsenhausen concentration camp in Oranienburg, Germany. Auschwitz was located on a former military base outside OÅ›wiÄ™cim, a town in southern Poland situated near Krakow, one of the country’s largest cities. During the camp’s construction, nearby factories were appropriated and all those living in the area were forcibly ejected from their homes, which were bulldozed by the Nazis. Blitzkrieg (German, literally lightning war or flash war) is a popular name for an offensive operational-level military doctrine which involves an initial bombardment followed by employment of mobile forces attacking with speed and surprise to prevent an enemy from implementing a coherent defense. The founding principles of these types of operations were developed in the 19th Century by various nations, and adapted in the years after World War I, largely by the German Wehrmacht, to incorporate modern weapons and vehicles as a method to help prevent trench warfare and linear warfare in future conflicts. The first practical implementations of these concepts coupled with modern technology were instituted by the Wehrmacht in the opening battles of World War II. While operations in Poland were rather conventional, subsequent battles — particularly the invasions of France, The Netherlands and initial operations in the Soviet Union — were effective owing to surprise penetrations, general enemy unpreparedness and an inability to react swiftly enough to German offensive operations. That the German Army quickly defeated numerically and technically superior enemies in France led many analysts to believe that a new system of warfare had been invented. In nearly every country overrun by the Nazis, the Jews were forced to wear badges marking them as Jews, they were rounded up into ghettos or concentration camps and then gradually transported to the killing centers. The death camps were essentially factories for murdering Jews. The Germans shipped thousands of Jews to them each day. Within a few hours of their arrival, the Jews had been stripped of their possessions and valuables, gassed to death, and their bodies burned in specially designed crematoriums. Approximately 3.5 million Jews were murdered in these death camps. While some of the guiding conceptions of the Blitzkrieg were tried out in Ethiopia, the results were not considered conclusive. The Ethiopians were a semi-savage people, and they lacked the modern armament and equipment necessary to offer the Italian invaders the kind of resistance essential if Blitzkrieg were to receive a real and complete battlefield test. But Spain furnished a fine proving ground. Then Albania was a dress rehearsal. And in Poland the system was put to the final proof. The prisoners put up various forms of resistance to the tyranny of the camp. Resistance organisations helped inmates to obtain medicine and food, documented Nazi crimes, supported attempts to escape and sabotage, tried to put political prisoners into positions of responsibility, and prepared for an uprising. A total of 667 prisoners escaped from Auschwitz, but 270 of them were caught in the vicinity of the camp and immediately executed. The best-known escape was that of two Slovak Jews, Alfred Wetzler and Walter Rosenberg (Rudolf Vrba) (link in Czech). They managed to cross into Slovakia and to tell Jewish leaders - and through them the world - about the terrible reality of Auschwitz, about which they wrote an extensive report. On the 7th of October 1944, there was an uprising by the Sonderkommando working in the gas chambers. The prisoners managed to destroy one of the gas chambers, and thus to hinder the extermination process. All the rebels died. A group of young female prisoners was also executed for having smuggled gunpowder to the rebels from the factory in Monowitz. The possible final remnant will, since it will undoubtedly consist of the most resistant portion, have to be treated accordingly because it is the product of natural selection and would, if released, act as the seed of a new Jewish revival (see the experience of history.) In the course of the practical execution of the final solution, Europe will be combed through from west to east. Germany proper, including the Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia, will have to be handled first due to the housing problem and additional social and political necessities. The evacuated Jews will first be sent, group by group, to so-called transit ghettos, from which they will be transported to the East. Uniquely at Auschwitz, prisoners were tattooed with a serial number, on their left breast for Soviet prisoners of war and on the left arm for civilians. Categories of prisoner were distinguishable by triangular pieces of cloth (German: Winkel) sewn onto on their jackets below their prisoner number. Political prisoners (Schutzhäftlinge or Sch), mostly Poles, had a red triangle, while criminals (Berufsverbrecher or BV) were mostly German and wore green. Asocial prisoners (Asoziale or Aso), which included vagrants, prostitutes and the Roma, wore black. Purple was for Jehovah's Witnesses (Internationale Bibelforscher-Vereinigung or IBV)'s and pink for gay men, who were mostly German. An estimated 5,000–15,000 gay men prosecuted under German Penal Code Section 175 (proscribing sexual acts between men) were detained in concentration camps, of which an unknown number were sent to Auschwitz. Jews wore a yellow badge, the shape of the Star of David, overlaid by a second triangle if they also belonged to a second category. The nationality of the inmate was indicated by a letter stitched onto the cloth. A racial hierarchy existed, with German prisoners at the top. Next were non-Jewish prisoners from other countries. Jewish prisoners were at the bottom. The novel was adapted as the 1993 movie Schindler's List by Steven Spielberg. After acquiring the rights in 1983, Spielberg felt he was not ready emotionally or professionally to tackle the project, and he offered the rights to several other directors. After he read a script for the project prepared by Steven Zaillian for Martin Scorsese, he decided to trade him Cape Fear for the opportunity to do the Schindler biography. In the film, the character of Itzhak Stern (played by Ben Kingsley) is a composite of Stern, Bankier, and Pemper. Liam Neeson was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Schindler in the film, which won seven Oscars, including Best Picture.
Guess Paper Year 2011 CBSE Class IX 1. what type of wave is sound wave? (a) radio waves (b) electro magnetic wave (c) mechanical wave (d) transverse wave 2. SONAR works on principle of (c) particle nature of wave 3. Loudness depends on (a) wave length 4. Pitch increases with increase in (a) energy of sound (c) wave length 5. speed of sound greatest in 6. The sound whose frequency is between 20 Hz to 20000 Hz is (a) infrasonic wave (b) audible sound (c) ultrasonic wave (d) radio waves Very Short Answer Questions: 1. What is echo? 2. What are conditions necessary to hear echo? 3. What is SONAR ? Give its use? 4. How density of medium affect speed of sound? 5. What is pitch of sound? 6. What is amplitude of sound waves? 7. What is resonance? 8. What is sonometer? 9. Define the terms frequency , wave length and time period . 10. If 2000 ripples produced in 5 sec in a pond find time period and frequency of ripples formation. 1. A person observe the smoke from a gun 1.4 sec before he hear the bang. If the gun is 476m away from the person, find the speed of sound? 2. A person standing near the cliff fires the gun and heared the echo after 1.5 sec . If the speed of sound in air is 340m/sec , how far is person from the cliff? 3. A sound wave of frequency 5000 Hz travel in air with speed of 350m/sec. Calculate the wave length. 4. If you hear thunder 7 sec after you see lightening , how far you from the lighting occurred? 5. A bat emits ultrasonic wave of frequency 30 Khz . If its speed is 350m/s and bats hear its echo after 0.6 sec after emitting the , find how far is bat from obstacle and wave length of wave? 6. Meera is standing between two hills. She shouted loudly and hears first echo after 0.5 sec and second echo after 1 sec. what is distance between Long Answer Questions: 1. State any two characteristics of sound wave? why it is called 2. What are differences between music and noise? 3. How bat is able to fly in night? 4. Discuss effect of temperature and humidity on speed of sound. 5. Why lightening appears before than thundering in rainy season? 6. How is the depth of oceans measured using echo?
By mid-1944 those Jewish communities within easy reach of the Nazi regime had been largely exterminated, in proportions ranging from about 25 percent in France to more than 90 percent in Poland. On 5 May Himmler claimed in a speech that "the Jewish question has in general been solved in Germany and in the countries occupied by Germany". As the Soviet armed forces advanced, the camps in eastern Poland were closed down, with surviving inmates shipped to camps closer to Germany. Efforts were made to conceal evidence of what had happened. The gas chambers were dismantled, the crematoria dynamited, and the mass graves dug up and the corpses cremated. Local commanders continued to kill Jews, and to shuttle them from camp to camp by forced "death marches". Already sick after months or years of violence and starvation, some were marched to train stations and transported for days at a time without food or shelter in open freight cars, then forced to march again at the other end to the new camp. Others were marched the entire distance to the new camp. Those who lagged behind or fell were shot. Around 250,000 Jews died during these marches. Schindler founded the first foreign subsidiary in Berlin (Germany) in 1906. Thereafter, the company expanded continuously and mainly throughout Europe. The company established a branch in London in 1960, operating under the name Platt-Schindler and in France after acquiring Roux Combaluzier in 1969, which it was later known as Roux Combaluzier Schindler or RCS. In the 1970s, Schindler moves to its current headquarter in Ebikon, Switzerland. The average number of Germans in the camp during the war was 3,000. Just before the liberation many German prisoners were evacuated, but 2,000 of these Germans died during the evacuation transport. Evacuated prisoners included such prominent political and religious figures as Martin Niemöller, Kurt von Schuschnigg, Édouard Daladier, Léon Blum, Franz Halder, and Hjalmar Schacht. The only person at MCA/Universal who agreed with Spielberg and director of cinematography Janusz Kaminski’s decision to shoot the movie in black and white was Sheinberg. Everyone else lobbied against the idea, saying that it would stylize the Holocaust. Spielberg and Kaminski chose to shoot the film in a grimy, unstylish fashion and format inspired by German Expressionist and Italian Neorealist films. Also, according to Spielberg, “It’s entirely appropriate because I’ve only experienced the Holocaust through other people’s testimonies and through archival footage which is, of course, all in black and white.” Jews were forced to move, often to different cities or countries, and live in designated areas, referred to as ghettos. Most of the ghettos were “open” which meant Jews were free to come and go during the daytime. As time past, more and more ghettos became “closed” meaning that Jews were trapped and not allowed to leave. No ghettos were ever established within the borders of Germany and most were only meant as a temporary means of isolating Jews from the German population until they could be moved elsewhere. In Dachau, as in other Nazi camps, German physicians performed medical experiments on prisoners, including high-altitude experiments using a decompression chamber, malaria and tuberculosis experiments, hypothermia experiments, and experiments testing new medications. Prisoners were also forced to test methods of making seawater potable and of halting excessive bleeding. After Rostov, the Donetz Basin, the Leningrad front, a sorry interlude in the Carpathians and the Rumanian catastrophe, Skodzensky was to spend two months in a hospital near Berchtesgaden. Thereafter, he was automatically assigned to the SS Leibstandarte Division and, no longer fit for active service, was sent in the late spring of 1945 as a "convalescent" to serve at the Dachau concentration camp, where his Iron Cross was due to mire itself in infamy. As Lise described the meeting, across barbed wire when the guard was occupied elsewhere, Anne told her that she had no one. She believed her father and mother were dead; her sister was very ill. Lise remembered, "After her sister died, she was just without hope. But she didn't know [that her father was alive], and so she had really nothing to live for." Medical experiments conducted on camp inmates by the SS were another distinctive feature. At least 7,000 prisoners were subjected to experiments; most died as a result, during the experiments or later. Twenty-three senior physicians and other medical personnel were charged at Nuremberg, after the war, with crimes against humanity. They included the head of the German Red Cross, tenured professors, clinic directors, and biomedical researchers. Experiments took place at Auschwitz, Buchenwald, Dachau, Natzweiler-Struthof, Neuengamme, Ravensbrück, Sachsenhausen, and elsewhere. Some dealt with sterilization of men and women, the treatment of war wounds, ways to counteract chemical weapons, research into new vaccines and drugs, and the survival of harsh conditions. Thirty-three years after dropping out of college, Spielberg finally received a BA in Film and Video Production from his newly minted alma mater, Cal State Long Beach, in 2002. The director re-enrolled in secret, and gained his remaining credits by writing essays and submitting projects under a pseudonym. In order to pass a film course, he submitted Schindler’s List as his student project. Spielberg describes the time gap between leaving school and earning his degree as his “longest post-production schedule.” German forces had begun evacuating many of the death camps in the fall of 1944, sending inmates under guard to march further from the advancing enemy’s front line. These so-called “death marches” continued all the way up to the German surrender, resulting in the deaths of some 250,000 to 375,000 people. In his classic book “Survival in Auschwitz,” the Italian Jewish author Primo Levi described his own state of mind, as well as that of his fellow inmates in Auschwitz on the day before Soviet troops arrived at the camp in January 1945: “We lay in a world of death and phantoms. The last trace of civilization had vanished around and inside us. The work of bestial degradation, begun by the victorious Germans, had been carried to conclusion by the Germans in defeat.” On April 16, 1945 Soviets surrounded Berlin, Germany’s capital. When the Soviets began advancing towards the Reich Chancellery, Hitler committed suicide on April 30, 1945. Then on May 7th, Germany surrendered to the Western Allies in Reims, France and a few days later to the Soviets in Berlin. All told more than 60 million people, or about 3% of the world’s population at the time, were killed during the course of the Second World War. By May 19, 1945, all the former prisoners had been evacuated to the nearby Army barracks and on May 21, 1945, the last hut at the Bergen-Belsen camp was burned to the ground. The horror that was Bergen-Belsen had been completely wiped off the face of the earth. Today the former camp is a landscaped park with heather, which blooms in August, covering the mass graves. Most of the visitors to the Memorial Site are German students who come on tour buses. Advocacy organizations worldwide called for British Royal Air Forces to bomb concentration camps particularly at Auschwitz. Although the plan was adopted by British Prime Minister Winston Churchill poor information-sharing between parts of the British government led the order to be ignored and the plan dropped. Such calculations were hardly the low point of Allied Responses. One story has that, low on supplies, the Nazis offered the British a million Jews in exchange for 10,000 trucks, which one British diplomat promptly refused saying, “What would I do with one million Jews? Where would I put them?” Nobody slept that night. The camp was alive with bonfires and we all wanted to bivouac out of doors, near the flames. Dachau had been transformed into a nomad camp. The Americans had distributed canned food, and we heated it in the coals of the fires. We also got some bread, taken from the last reserves in the kitchens. But I for one was not hungry, and most of us did not think of eating. We were drunk with our freedom. Life within Nazi concentration camps was horrible. Prisoners were forced to do hard physical labor and given little food. Prisoners slept three or more to a crowded wooden bunk; bedding was unheard of. Torture within the concentration camps was common and deaths were frequent. At a number of concentration camps, Nazi doctors conducted medical experiments on prisoners against their will. The number of Afro-Germans in Germany when the Nazis came to power is variously estimated at 5,000–25,000. It is not clear whether these figures included Asians. Although blacks, including prisoners of war, in Germany and German-occupied Europe were subjected to incarceration, sterilization, murder, and other abuse, there was no programme to kill them all as there was for the Jews. Based on the initial success of Dachau, Himmler appointed Eicke to be the very first Inspector of Concentration Camps in July 1934. Most of the old 'wild' camps were then shut down and replaced by large new SS camps built exactly on the Dachau model and staffed by Eicke's trainees including; Buchenwald in central Germany near Weimar, Sachsenhausen in the north near Berlin, and Ravensbrück for women. The American major did not return the German Lieutenant's salute. He hesitates a moment as if he were trying to make sure he is remembering the adequate words. Then he spits into the face of the German, "Du Schweinehund!" And then, "Sit down here" - pointing to the rear seat of one of the jeeps which in the meantime have driven up. The major gave an order, the jeep with the young German officer in it went outside the camp again. A few minutes went by. Then I heard several shots. During the first year, the camp held about 4,800 prisoners and by 1937 the number had risen to 13,260. Initially the internees consisted primarily of German Communists, Social Democrats, and other political opponents of the Nazi regime. Over time, other groups were also interned at Dachau such as Jehovah’s Witnesses, Roma (Gypsies), and homosexuals, as well as “asocials” and repeat criminals. During the early years relatively few Jews were interned in Dachau and usually because they belonged to one of the above groups or had completed prison sentences after being convicted for violating the Nuremberg Laws of 1935. Georg Elser, who was imprisoned at Dachau as a suspect in the attempted assassination of Hitler on November 8, 1939, was allegedly shot around the time that an Allied bomb hit the camp on April 9, 1945 and his death was blamed on the bombing. General Charles Delestraint, a Dachau prisoner who had been the leader of the French Secret Army in the Resistance, was allegedly executed at Dachau on April 19, 1945, although no execution order from Berlin was ever found. Four female British SOE agents were also allegedly executed Dachau, although the execution order was never found. They built roads, worked in gravel pits, and drained marshes, reclaiming them as arable land, initially, production in the camps was directly under the control of the individual camp commandant. But as the camps continued to grow, the range of production expanded, and the SS industries that were served by the camp labour were centralised under their main office in Berlin. In the first winter of the war the Dachau camp was used to set up the SS Totenkopf Division. No matter the ethical background of a student, the lesson that true good and true evil exist in the world is invaluable. This can be a difficult concept to convey without controversy. The concept of what is good and what is evil is not constant. This changes from person to person based on belief. There is, however, an area of absolutes that ought to be discussed so that students can know where and when to take a stand and for what cause. There are a few examples from history that can be used to have this discussion productively. One such example is the Nazi Holocaust. This terrifying case has absolutes that do not change. Thus persons and events from World War II can be used as examples of good and evil, and therefore can lead to productive discussions of ethics. A very good text to use in order to encourage this discussion is Schindler’s List by Thomas Keneally. The total number of German guards killed at Dachau during that day most certainly does not exceed fifty, with thirty probably being a more accurate figure. The regimental records of the 157th Field Artillery Regiment for that date indicate that over a thousand German prisoners were brought to the regimental collecting point. Since my task force was leading the regimental attack, almost all the prisoners were taken by the task force, including several hundred from Dachau. The authorship of the following article must remain anonymous, for obvious reasons. The New Republic vouches for its authenticity, and for the fact that the conditions described are continuing to the present day. Indeed, reliable reports from Germany indicate that mistreatment of prisoners in concentration camps has become much worse since the alleged attempt at revolt at the end of June.—The Editors, 1934 The name 'Belsen' invokes tremor in Jews' hearts. Belsen is engraved in the Jewish consciousness as one of the most cursed places in Germany, where the bones of tens of thousands of Jewish victims are buried. The Belsen camp is, in Jews' memories and in the memories of all people in the world, a camp of starvation, and unbelievable filth which caused diseases and plagues. Belsen has become a symbol of man's inhumanity to man. The Third Reich first used concentration camps as places of unlawful incarceration of political opponents and other "enemies of the state". Large numbers of Jews were not sent there until after Kristallnacht in November 1938. Although death rates were high, the camps were not designed as killing centers. After war broke out in 1939, new camps were established, some outside Germany in occupied Europe. In January 1945, the SS reports had over 700,000 prisoners in their control, of which close to half had died by the end of May 1945 according to most historians. Most wartime prisoners of the camps were not Germans but belonged to countries under German occupation. The camp was divided into two sections: the camp area and the crematorium. The camp area consisted of 32 barracks, including one for clergy imprisoned for opposing the Nazi regime and one reserved for medical experiments. The courtyard between the prison and the central kitchen was used for the summary execution of prisoners. The camp was surrounded by an electrified barbed-wire gate, a ditch, and a wall with seven guard towers. In early 1937, the SS, using prisoner labor, began construction of a large complex of buildings on the grounds of the original camp. Prisoners were forced to do this work, starting with the destruction of the old munitions factory, under terrible conditions. The construction was officially completed in mid-August 1938 and the camp remained essentially unchanged until 1945. Dachau thus remained in operation for the entire period of the Third Reich. Dachauers have accepted the fact that their town will always be reviled as the home of the best-known Nazi concentration camp, but they are sometimes resentful that the town of Dachau is always associated with Nazi atrocities. They refer to the town itself as "the other Dachau." They have pretty much given up trying to persuade tourists to visit the town, since the Holocaust is the only thing that attracts visitors to Dachau today.
Rheology and stress in subduction zones around the aseismic/seismic transition Progress in Earth and Planetary Science volume 5, Article number: 24 (2018) Subduction channels are commonly occupied by deformed and metamorphosed basaltic rocks, together with clastic and pelagic sediments, which form a zone up to several kilometers thick to depths of at least 40 km. At temperatures above ~ 350 °C (corresponding to depths of > 25–35 km), the subduction zone undergoes a transition to aseismic behavior, and much of the relative motion is accommodated by ductile deformation in the subduction channel. Microstructures in metagreywacke suggest deformation occurs mainly by solution-redeposition creep in quartz. Interlayered metachert shows evidence for dislocation creep at relatively low stresses (8–13 MPa shear stress). Metachert is likely to be somewhat stronger than metagreywacke, so this value may be an upper limit for the shear stress in the channel as a whole. Metabasaltic rocks deform mainly by transformation-assisted diffusional creep during low-temperature metamorphism and, when dry, are somewhat stronger than metachert. Quartz flow laws for dislocation and solution-redeposition creep suggest strain rates of ~ 10−12 s−1 at 500 °C and 10 MPa shear stress: this is sufficient to accommodate a 100 mm/yr. convergence rate within a 1 km wide ductile shear zone. The up-dip transition into the seismic zone occurs through a region where deformation is still distributed over a thickness of several kilometers, but occurs by a combination of microfolding, dilational microcracking, and solution-redeposition creep. This process requires a high fluid flux, released by dehydration reactions down-dip, and produces a highly differentiated deformational fabric with alternating millimeter-scale quartz and phyllosilicate-rich bands, and very abundant quartz veins. Bursts of dilational microcracking in zones 100–200 m thick may cause cyclic fluctuations in fluid pressure and may be associated with episodic tremor and slow slip events. Shear stress estimates from dislocation creep microstructures in dynamically recrystallized metachert are ~ 10 MPa. Seismicity along the subduction zone interface at shallow depths transitions downwards into a zone of aseismic creep at depths of 25–40 km (Tichelaar and Ruff 1993). The character and properties of the creeping zone are poorly known: many analyses assume that it is simply a zone of stable slip along the interface (e.g., Holtkamp and Brudzinski 2010), but exhumed rocks from these depths suggest there may be a so-called subduction channel containing metasedimentary and volcanic rocks, which take up much or all of the displacement (Gerya 2002; Warren et al. 2008; Beaumont et al. 2009; Blanco-Quintero et al. 2011; Behr and Platt 2013). The transition between the seismic and aseismic zones is particularly interesting, as in a number of subduction zones this is the source of tectonic tremor and slow slip events (Hirose et al. 1999; Dragert et al. 2001; Obara 2002), the origin of which is uncertain (Fig. 1). Slow slip events involve geodetically determined surface displacements of a few centimeters over periods of a few days to ~ 1 year (Peng and Gomberg 2010; Gao et al. 2012); these appear to reflect the release of elastic strain by displacement within the subduction zone at rates that are sub-seismic, but one to two orders of magnitude faster than plate motion rates. Slow slip is commonly accompanied by tremor, a non-impulsive seismic signal that may last for periods up to the duration of the slow slip event (Obara 2002; Rogers and Dragert 2003; Schwartz and Rokosky 2007). Tremor is now thought to be made up of concatenated low-frequency earthquakes (LFEs)—low-magnitude events with unusually long durations and low frequencies (Shelly et al. 2007; Frank et al. 2016). In this paper, we refer to the spectrum of slow phenomena, such as LFEs, tectonic tremor, and aseismic slow slip events, as slow earthquakes. Controls on the location of the transition zone remain uncertain. There is general agreement that it does not correspond to a specific temperature (Peacock 2009; Boyarko and Brudzinski 2010), and that pore-fluid pressure is likely to be important (Audet et al. 2009; Peng and Gomberg 2010; Peacock et al. 2011). The seismic-aseismic transition generally occurs in the depth range 25–40 km, corresponding to temperatures in the range 350–500 °C (Peacock et al. 2011), above the lower temperature limit for crystal plasticity in quartz (Hirth et al. 2001). A key factor controlling the rheology and response of subduction zones is water. Water is released from hydrated mantle in the subducted plate, the subducted ocean floor, and its sedimentary cover; initially by compaction, and then at progressively increasing depth and temperature by metamorphic dehydration reactions, such as the breakdown of clay minerals to micas and chlorite, chlorite and albite to form glaucophane, serpentine minerals to talc and forsterite (Audet et al. 2009), and blueschist-facies assemblages including sodic amphibole and lawsonite to eclogite-facies assemblages including sodic clinopyroxene (omphacite) and garnet (Peacock et al. 2011). Water can facilitate brittle fracture at depths where the confining pressure would normally inhibit it, by reducing the effective pressure and inducing hydraulic fracture. This process is limited, however, because fracture generally induces dilatancy, which in turn reduces the fluid pressure (Peng and Gomberg 2010); this negative feedback may provide an explanation for slow slip events (Segall et al. 2010). Water also reduces the stress required for crystal plasticity (e.g., Holyoke and Kronenberg 2013) and facilitates metamorphic reactions, producing weak hydrous phases. Interseismic landward motion recorded by continuous GPS above subduction zones is interpreted as the accumulation of elastic stress that is subsequently released either by true seismic events or by slow earthquakes (Dragert et al. 2001). Slow earthquakes are interpreted by most workers to occur on the plate interface (e.g., Beroza and Ide 2010), and the interpreted focal mechanisms for LFEs are consistent with slip along a gently dipping thrust fault (Ide et al. 2007a, b, Shelly et al. 2007, Frank et al. 2013). Locational uncertainties for LFEs are of the order of 5 km, however (Shelly et al. 2007; Brown et al. 2009; Peng and Gomberg 2010), leaving open the possibility that the sources may not be confined to a single discrete slip surface. The transition from seismic slip to aseismic creep along the subduction zone is likely to involve a progressive increase in off-fault deformation with depth. The role of this off-fault deformation in accommodating plate convergence at the depth of slow earthquakes is neglected in the above interpretations, and there is an open question as to whether off-fault deformation is responsible for slow earthquakes, or for some component of the interseismic landward motion. The discovery by Ide et al. (2007a, b) of separate moment/duration scaling relationships for normal seismic events and slow earthquakes suggests a fundamentally different mechanism for slow events. This may involve a component of hydraulic fracture, as suggested by the fact that they occur in a zone characterized by high Vp/Vs ratios (e.g., Beroza and Ide 2010), indicating high water content. Tremor and slow slip events have also been attributed to fracture of competent rock lenses in otherwise ductile shear zones or melange zones that may be hundreds of meters to kilometers thick (Skarbek et al. 2012; Fagereng et al. 2014; Hayman and Lavier 2014; Behr et al. in press). The purpose of this paper is to present field and microstructural data from two terranes in California that represent rocks exhumed from the subduction channel developed in the Late Mesozoic to Early Tertiary subduction zone along the western margin of the North American plate. One of these is the Pelona schist in the San Gabriel Mountains of southern California; this is a body of volcanic and sedimentary rocks derived from the underthrust oceanic plate that was metamorphosed at a temperature of ~ 500 °C and a depth of ~ 39 km during the latest Cretaceous Laramide flat-slab subduction event (Xia and Platt 2017). The other is the South Fork Mountain Schist in the Coast Ranges of northern California, which was metamorphosed at ~ 350 °C and a depth of ~ 30 km along the subduction zone interface during early Cretaceous subduction (Broecker and Day 1995; Cooper et al. 2011; Schmidt and Platt 2018). The Pelona Schist appears to represent the products of aseismic creep; the conditions under which the South Fork Mountain Schist formed correspond well to the transition zone, hence with a possible source region of slow earthquakes. These two exhumed terrains give us a unique insight into the nature of the seismic-aseismic transition in a subduction zone. The Pelona Schist: aseismic creep in the subduction zone The Pelona Schist in southern California is a body of oceanic metavolcanic and sedimentary rocks exposed in a series of tectonic windows, where it lies beneath Proterozoic crystalline rocks attributed to the North American continent and Mesozoic granitoids belonging to the subduction-related magmatic arc inboard from the trench (Fig. 2). The Pelona Schist is thought to have been thrust beneath the margin during the Laramide flat-slab subduction event (e.g., Jacobson et al. 2007), which truncated the roots of the arc and removed the subcontinental lithosphere, emplacing Laramide oceanic lithosphere and superjacent sedimentary sequences in its place. The situation at the end of the Cretaceous along the western margin of North America at the latitude of California probably closely resembled the present-day subduction zone near Guerrero on the Mexican margin, where flat-slab subduction at ~ 45 km depth is on-going at present (Pérez-Campos et al. 2008; Frank et al. 2014). The Pelona Schist in the San Gabriel Mountains of California is directly overlain by a 500–800 m thick mylonite zone that was originally thought to represent the subduction zone interface. Recent structural and petrological investigations have shown that this ductile shear zone is part of a normal fault system that exhumed the Pelona Schist during early Cenozoic time and that the subduction zone interface is no longer preserved (Xia and Platt, in review). The Pelona Schist itself shows a reversal of shear sense over its exposed ~ 4 km structural depth. This spatial reversal was established during the early stages of exhumation, associated with retrograde metamorphism immediately after peak temperature and pressure; it is interpreted by Xia and Platt (2017) as indicating that the schist was deformed and exhumed in a subduction channel, probably 5–10 km thick, the lower part of which is not exposed. Metamorphic conditions during this process were around 500 °C and 1 GPa, consistent with a depth of ~ 39 km in the subduction zone (Xia and Platt 2017). The Pelona Schist was subsequently exhumed along a major normal fault system, accompanied by mylonitization of both the hanging wall gneisses and granitoids, and the uppermost part of the Pelona Schist itself, under conditions of decreasing pressure and temperature, as is observed for other outcrops of Pelona-type schist (Jacobson et al. 2007). The bulk of the Pelona Schist consists of metagreywacke, with lesser amounts of metabasaltic rocks (now mafic greenschist) and metachert. Deformation is intense, with complete transposition of bedding and early deformational fabrics into the plane of the dominant foliation, which formed in the subduction channel during exhumation and decompression (Fig. 3a). No discontinuities have been identified associated with this deformation, which was entirely ductile and distributed across at least the 4 km structural thickness of the schist that is exposed. For this reason, we interpret the deformation in the schist as representing the creeping section of the subduction zone. Deformation in the metagreywacke was accomplished predominantly by pressure solution, which created a differentiated fabric, with laminae rich in sheet silicates (chlorite and white mica) alternating at the millimeter-scale with laminae rich in quartz (Fig. 3b). Rigid porphyroblasts of albite are surrounded by pressure shadows filled with quartz. Inclusion trails within albite define an earlier differentiated fabric that formed during subduction, suggesting that pressure solution was the dominant deformation mechanism throughout the process of subduction and return flow. This is consistent with the widely reported occurrence of pressure solution as the dominant deformation mechanism in many subduction complexes (e.g., Bolhar and Ring 2001; Gratier et al. 2011; Behr and Platt 2013; Wassmann and Stöckhert 2013). The pressure shadows around albite porphyroblasts are commonly asymmetric and indicate the sense of shear during flow. The sense is top to WNW (in present coordinates) in the lower part of the exposed schist (Fig. 3c) and top to ENE in the top 1000 m (Fig. 3d). Xia and Platt (2017) interpret this in terms of return flow in a subduction channel ~ 5–10 km thick (Fig. 4), which is consistent with the inferred thickness of the Pelona Schist beneath southern California (Lee et al. 2014). Sparsely distributed metachert within the Pelona Schist shows isoclinal folds and sheath folds, demonstrating that it participated fully in the ductile deformation. The microstructure of the metachert suggests dislocation creep and dynamic recrystallization by the subgrain rotation mechanism (Fig. 5), and this is supported by the presence of a crystallographic preferred orientation of the quartz, with an asymmetric single girdle of c-axes. The dynamically recrystallized grain size in the quartz from metachert on both the ESE- and WNW-directed “limbs” of the return flow system lies in the range 49–85 μm, which indicates a shear stress during deformation of 8–13 MPa, using the paleopiezometer of Stipp and Tullis (2003), with corrections as suggested by Holyoke and Kronenberg (2010). Differential stress inferred from the piezometer has here been converted to shear stress, appropriate to bulk simple shear flow, by dividing it by √3 (Behr and Platt 2013). The shear stress inferred from the metachert is consistent with dislocation creep (Fig. 6), as is also suggested by the microstructure, but it appears to be inconsistent with the fact that the metagreywackes deformed predominantly by pressure solution, which in pure quartz would require lower stress or smaller grain size, or both (Fig. 6). Quartz in metagreywacke has recrystallized grain sizes in the range 100–200 μm, but metachert and metagreywacke appear to have been deformed together to comparable strains, so Xia and Platt (2017) suggest that the rate of pressure solution in the greywacke was enhanced by the presence of abundant sheet silicates, which facilitated the diffusion of aqueous fluids. Metabasaltic rocks in the Pelona schist were metamorphosed under high-pressure greenschist facies conditions, and contain mineral assemblages dominated by albite, epidote, and Ca-amphibole. During metamorphism these rocks are likely to have deformed by transformation-assisted diffusion creep, and may have had very low strength. Once the new mineral assemblage was formed, however, the rock is likely to have been quite strong. Currently available experimental data do not allow us to quantify this, but the field relationships suggest that the rock was at least as strong as the intercalated metachert. The strain rate in the metachert inferred from the stress and temperature is ~ 10−12 s−1, using the quartz flow law of Hirth et al. (2001). This is sufficient to accommodate a subduction rate of 100 mm/year, appropriate to the late Cretaceous subduction zone off California, in a zone of simple shear < 1 km thick. Given that the subduction channel in which the Pelona Schist was deformed was at least 5 km thick, this appears to justify our assumption that it represents a zone of distributed ductile shear without the need for any discontinuities. The South Fork Mountain Schist: a possible slow earthquakes source The South Fork Mountain Schist (SFMS) is a body of blueschist facies metasedimentary and metavolcanic rocks of oceanic origin that extends for 250 km along the eastern margin of the Franciscan accretionary complex in northern California (Fig. 7) (Jayko and Blake 1989). Limited detrital zircon ages suggest that the youngest sedimentary components are ~ 137 million years old, and Ar-Ar ages on metamorphic mica indicate crystallization or cooling at ~ 121 Ma (Dumitru et al. 2010), which suggests that the SFMS is the oldest large-scale coherent body of metamorphic rock within the Franciscan Complex. This and its structural position immediately beneath the Coast Range ophiolite, which represents the upper plate of the subduction zone, suggest that it formed along the subduction zone interface in Early Cretaceous time (Schmidt and Platt 2018). The unit is ~ 3.5 km thick and consists largely of pelitic schist, with subordinate amounts of metabasaltic rocks and metachert. The SFMS was metamorphosed at around 350 °C and 800 MPa, corresponding to a depth of ~ 30 km in the subduction zone (Broecker and Day 1995; Cooper et al. 2011). This places it at a position equivalent to the transition from seismic to aseismic creep on present-day active margins such as the Nankai trough (Peacock 2009) or the Cascadia margin (Peacock et al. 2011), and in a temperature regime similar to that calculated for tremor regions beneath the Kii Peninsula (Peacock 2009). It is intensely deformed, with a strong differentiated fabric composed of alternating millimeter-scale laminae of quartz and sheet silicates, formed by solution-redeposition processes (Schmidt and Platt 2018). This fabric has been redeformed by a predominantly W-vergent set of folds, ranging in scale from millimeter-scale crenulations to folds several hundred meters in wavelength. These folds are accompanied by a variably developed axial-planar crenulation cleavage (Fig. 8a, b). A distinctive aspect of these folds is that they were accompanied by dilational microcracking on a range of scales. The most common expression of this is dilational arcs in the hinges of the millimeter-scale crenulations, which were progressively opened by dilational microcracking and then healed by infillings of quartz (Figs. 8c, d and 9a). Quartz veins also formed on a range of scales at all stages in the deformation history (Fig. 10b). These features form either as hydraulic fractures or as hydraulically assisted shear fractures and indicate fluid pressures approaching lithostatic, at least transiently. Given the low solubility of silica in water at 300 °C, it is likely that these hydraulic fractures opened repeatedly to produce the present-day geometry. Quartz precipitated in veins and dilational fractures shows microstructural evidence for limited crystal plastic deformation, in the form of subgrains, grain-boundary suturing (bulging), and some dynamic recrystallization (Fig. 10b). Plastic deformation alternated with hydraulic fracture, as younger veins show lesser degrees of plastic deformation than older ones (Schmidt and Platt 2018). The size of the dynamically recrystallized grains (~ 40 μm) indicates shear stress of the order of 10 MPa, but the evidence for alternating phases of plastic deformation and hydraulic fracture suggests that the shear stress and fluid pressure may have fluctuated repeatedly. An important aspect of the deformation in the SFMS is that the crenulation trains have the geometry and mechanical characteristics of kink-bands (Fig. 10a). Kink-bands are characteristic of the deformation of strongly anisotropic materials, such as schists (Donath 1968), and they tend to propagate rapidly parallel to the direction of maximum rate of shear strain in the deforming medium (Cobbold et al. 1971; Gay and Weiss 1974). Kinking is greatly facilitated by dilation in the hinge area of the kink, as this allows it to develop without components of extension or shortening parallel to the rotating foliation. The crenulations in the SFMS show characteristic dilation in the crenulation arcs, suggesting that high fluid pressure facilitated their formation. The dilational cracks are infilled with quartz, resulting from solution and redeposition of silica during the deformation (Fig. 8). The source of the silica is likely to be the limbs of the crenulations, as these commonly show evidence for pressure solution, such as depletion in quartz and concentration of mica and insoluble materials such as graphite (Schmidt and Platt 2018). A train of these crenulations, such as that illustrated in Fig. 10a, is therefore likely to approximate closely to a zone of simple shear (Fig. 9b), accommodating displacement at a rate that is controlled on short time-scales by hydraulic fracture, and on long time-scales by solution and redeposition of silica. At 800 MPa pressure and 350 °C, the molar concentration of SiO2 in water is 0.0444 mol/kg, and the mole fraction is close to 8 × 10−4 (Fournier and Potter 1982; den Brok 1998). Hence, a quartz-filled dilation site needs about 1250 times its volume of SiO2-saturated water to pass through it in order to fill it. This could have been achieved by repeated cycles of opening and closing of the void, driven by fluctuations in fluid pressure. Evidence for this type of repeated opening and closing comes from some quartz veins, which show crack-seal type microstructures (Ramsay 1980) indicative of this, but we have not seen evidence for this process in the crenulation arcs. Alternatively, these relatively small voids may have stayed open long enough for sufficient fluid to flow through them to fill them with quartz. Geophysical evidence for large-scale fluid flow during slow slip events has been documented by Frank et al. (2015), Skarbek and Rempel (2016) and Taetz et al. (2018). We postulate that propagation of a train of crenulations is likely to be triggered by high-fluid pressure, rapidly opening up dilational arcs, each of ~ 1 mm dimension, in a coordinated fashion to form a shear band with in-plane dimensions of the order of one to a few tens of meters, and an effective shear displacement of ~ 1 mm (Fig. 9). The equivalent seismic moment is the slip × area × elastic modulus. Assuming a shear modulus of 3 × 1010 Pa, and a linear dimension of 30 m, giving an in-plane area of 103 m2, the equivalent moment is 3 × 1011 N m, which is the characteristic size of the LFEs making up tremor bursts (Gao et al. 2012; Frank et al. 2016). The crenulation bands seen in outcrop mostly have linear dimensions of the order of 1 m, but some of them are likely to have extended for tens of meters. Given that the cumulative moment release in LFEs is only a small proportion of the total moment release in slow slip events (Peng and Gomberg 2010), we suggest that the largest crenulation bands may be good candidates for LFE sources. What we cannot determine from the field relationships or the microstructure is the time-scale on which these crenulation bands propagate. The rate-limiting step is the rate at which fluid can permeate from the surrounding rock into the crenulation arcs, which depends on the permeability of the rock and the distance over which the fluid must migrate. At present, we have too few constraints to estimate this. The formation of these crenulation bands must occur repeatedly to produce the pervasive sets of crenulation cleavages in the SFMS, and the scale of the crenulation arcs is likely to be consistent, as it is controlled by the thickness of the foliation bands making up the earlier fabric that is being crenulated. The process we describe is therefore likely to produce repeating events with very similar characteristics, which is what is observed for LFEs (Shelly et al. 2007; Frank et al. 2014). The formation of crenulation bands is clearly linked geometrically and mechanically to larger scale folds. These folds were produced by the deformation of strongly layered sandstone-shale sequences, and hence also have the geometry of kink-bands. The folds form a hierarchy of scales, from centimeter scale to hundreds of meters (Schmidt and Platt 2018), controlled by the scale lengths of mechanical layering in the rocks, which varies from individual beds, with thicknesses of centimeters to tens of centimeters, to packages of beds that may have formed in channels or lobes within a submarine fan, with thicknesses ranging from tens of meters to kilometers (Pickering and Hiscott 2016). Buckle folds in deformed sand-shale sequences typically have wavelengths around one order of magnitude larger than the layer thickness, so that scales of folding in any particular sequence will form a hierarchy (Ramberg 1964; Hudleston 1973). Amplification of the larger scale structures is accommodated by the accumulation of displacements on smaller scale structures. This corresponds well to what is observed in slow slip events: LFEs are concatenated to form tremor bursts, with equivalent moments of ~ 1014 N m: these might correspond to the amplification of a meter-scale fold train, with areal dimensions of 105 m2, in which the activity of a series of crenulation bands in a burst leads to a net displacement of 10 mm (Fig. 8b). Development of folds on scales of 10–100 m wavelength and corresponding larger areal dimensions could lead in the same way to displacements of tens of centimeters (Fig. 11), corresponding to slow slip events with moment equivalents of up to 5 × 1018 N m, which might last for several weeks. Each of these events would involve a concatenated series of amplifications of individual smaller scale folds and crenulation bands, as described above. Initiation of these events would correspond to a peak in fluid pressure, and they would be self-limited by the drop in fluid pressure caused by the opening of the dilational cracks (Segall et al. 2010). Field and microstructural observations from the Pelona Schist, an exhumed subduction complex in southern California, suggest that the creeping section of the subduction zone interface, below 30–40 km depth, is characterized by pervasive ductile flow at a temperature of ~ 500 °C, including components of shear driven by subduction (Couette flow) and return flow driven by buoyancy and topographic gradients (Poiseuille flow). The predominant deformational mechanism in metagreywacke is thin-film pressure solution, accompanied by dislocation creep in quartz-rich domains including metachert. The dynamically recrystallized grain-size piezometer suggests shear stresses of 8–13 MPa. Inferred strain rates of 10−12 s−1 are sufficient to accommodate all the displacement without the need for a discrete slip surface. At around 30 km depth and a temperature of 350 °C, there is a transition into zone of seismic slip. The transition zone itself is the source of episodic tremor and slow slip events. Field observations from the South Fork Mountain Schist in the northern California Coast Ranges suggest that this is a zone of distributed deformation ~ 3.5 km thick, characterized by intensive microfolding, dilatant fracturing in microfold hinges, and solution-redeposition of quartz, producing multiple differentiated foliations. The dilational microcracks indicate high fluid pressures and fluid content, as is expected in a zone of low seismic velocity and high Vp/Vs ratio. Microstructural evidence shows that these processes alternated with dislocation creep, and dynamically recrystallized grain sizes indicate peak shear stresses of the order of 10 MPa. The crenulation trains are kinematically equivalent to shear bands with a reverse shear sense, which can propagate rapidly both up-dip and laterally, and which are capable of producing displacements and seismic moment comparable to low-frequency earthquakes. Because these shear bands accommodate subduction-driven thrust motion, their activity could produce a focal mechanism consistent with that of a gently dipping thrust fault. Development of and amplification of mesoscopic folds by the coordinated development of crenulation trains could be responsible for tremor bursts. The development of larger scale folds with wavelengths of tens to hundreds of meters by the same mechanism could be responsible for slow slip events. The different scales of deformation can therefore be related to the different scales of slow earthquake phenomena. In each case, reasonable estimates of the incremental displacements produced and the equivalent seismic moment are comparable to the observed geophysical phenomena. The distribution of all these processes along the subduction zone interface is summarized in Fig. 12. South Fork Mountain Schist Audet P, Bostock MG, Christensen NI, Peacock SM (2009) Seismic evidence for overpressured subducted oceanic crust and megathrust fault sealing. Nature 457:76–78 Beaumont C, Jamieson RA, Butler JP, Warren CJ (2009) Crustal structure: a key constraint on the mechanism of ultra-high-pressure rock exhumation. Earth Planet Sci Lett 287(1-2):116–129 Behr W, Kotowski A, Ashley K (in press) Dehydration induced rheological heterogeneity and the deep tremor source in subduction zones. Geology Behr WM, Platt JP (2013) Rheological evolution of a Mediterranean subduction complex. J Struct Geol 54:136–155 Beroza GC, Ide S (2010) Slow earthquakes and nonvolcanic tremor. 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Geophys Res Lett 36:L19306 Cobbold PR, Cosgrove JW, Summers JM (1971) The development of internal structures in deformed anisotropic rocks. Tectonophysics 12:23–53 Cooper FJ, Platt JP, Anczkiewicz R (2011) Constraints on early Franciscan subduction rates from 2-D thermal modeling. Earth Planet Sci Lett 312(1-2):69–79 den Brok SWJ (1998) Effect of microcracking on pressure-solution strain rate: the Gratz grain boundary model. Geology 26:915–918 Donath FA (1968) Experimental study of kink-band development in strongly anisotropic rock. In: A. J. Ball and D. K. Norris Eds. Conference on Research in Tectonics. Geol Surv Can Pap 68-52:255–288 Dragert H, Wang K, James TS (2001) A silent slip event on the deeper Cascadia subduction interface. Science 292(5521):1525–1528 Dumitru T, Wakabayashi J, Wright JE, Wooden JL (2010) Early cretaceous (ca. 123 Ma) transition from nonaccretionary behavior to strongly accretionary behavior within the Franciscan subduction complex. Tectonics 29:TC5001 Fagereng Å, Hillary GWB, Diener JFA (2014) Brittle-viscous deformation, slow slip, and tremor. Geophys Res Lett 41:4159–4167 Fournier RO, Potter RW (1982) An equation correlating the solubility of quartz in water from 25 to 900 C at pressures up to 10,000 bars. Geochim Cosmochim Acta 46(10):1969–1973 Frank WB, Shapiro NM, Husker AL, Kostoglodov V, Bhat HS, Campillo M (2015) Along-fault pore-pressure evolution during a slow-slip event in Guerrero, Mexico. Earth Planet Sci Lett 413:135–143 Frank WB, Shapiro NM, Husker AL, Kostoglodov V, Gusev AA, Campillo M (2016) The evolving interaction of low-frequency earthquakes during transient slip. Sci Adv 2:e1501616 Frank WB, Shapiro NM, Husker AL, Kostoglodov V, Romanenko A, Campillo M (2014) Using systematically characterized low-frequency earthquakes as a fault probe in Guerrero, Mexico. J Geophys Res Solid Earth 119:7686–7700 Frank WB, Shapiro NM, Kostoglodov V, Husker AL, Campillo M, Payero JS, Prieto GA (2013) Low-frequency earthquakes in the Mexican sweet spot. Geophys Res Lett 40:2661–2666 Gao H, Schmidt DA, Weldon RJ (2012) Scaling relationships of source parameters for slow slip events. Bull Seismol Soc Am 102(1):352–360 Gay NC, Weiss LE (1974) The relationship between principal directions and the geometry of kinks in foliated rocks. Tectonophysics 21:287–300 Gerya TV (2002) Exhumation rates of high pressure metamorphic rocks in subduction channels: the effect of rheology. Geophys Res Lett 29(8):102-1–102-4 Gratier JP, Richard J, Renard F, Mittempergher S, Doan ML, Di Toro G, Hadizadeh J, Boullier AM (2011) Aseismic sliding of active faults by pressure solution creep: evidence from the San Andreas Fault Observatory at Depth. Geology 39:1131–1134 Hayman NW, Lavier LL (2014) The geologic record of deep episodic tremor and slip. Geology 42:195–198 Hirose H, Hirahara K, Kimata F, Fujii N, Miyazaki S (1999) A slow thrust slip event following the two 1996 Hyuganada earthquakes beneath the Bungo Channel, southwest Japan. Geophys Res Lett 26:3237–3240 Hirth G, Teyssier C, Dunlap WJ (2001) An evaluation of quartzite flow laws based on comparisons between experimentally and naturally deformed rocks. Int J Earth Sci 90:77–87 Holtkamp S, Brudzinski MR (2010) Determination of slow slip episodes and strain accumulation along the Cascadia margin. J Geophys Res 115:B00A17 Holyoke CW, Kronenberg AK (2010) Accurate differential stress measurement using the molten salt cell and solid salt assemblies in the Griggs apparatus with applications to strength, piezometers and rheology. Tectonophysics 494:17–31 Holyoke CW, Kronenberg AK (2013) Reversible water weakening of quartz. Earth Planet Sci Lett 374:185–190 Hudleston PJ (1973) Fold morphology and some geometrical implications of theories of fold development. Tectonophysics 16:1–46 Ide S, Beroza C, Shelly DR, Uchide T (2007a) A scaling law for slow earthquakes. Nature 447:76–79 Ide S, Shelly DR, Beroza GC (2007b) Mechanism of deep low frequency earthquakes: further evidence that deep non-volcanic tremor is generated by shear slip on the plate interface. Geophys Res Lett 34:2191–2195 Jacobson C, Grove M, Vucic A, Pedrick J, Cloos M, Carlson W, Gilbert M, Liou J, Sorensen S (2007) Exhumation of the Orocopia Schist and associated rocks of southeastern California: relative roles of erosion, synsubduction tectonic denudation, and middle Cenozoic extension, pp 1–37 Jayko AS, Blake MC (1989) Deformation of the Eastern Franciscan Belt, northern California. J Struct Geol 11: 375–390 Lee E-J, Chen P, Jordan TH, Maechling PB, Denolle MA, Beroza GC (2014) Full-3-D tomography for crustal structure in Southern California based on the scattering-integral and the adjoint-wavefield methods. J Geophys Res Solid Earth 119:6421–6451 Obara K (2002) Nonvolcanic deep tremor associated with subduction in southwest Japan. Science 296(5573):1679–1681 Peacock SM (2009) Thermal and metamorphic environment of subduction zone episodic tremor and slip. J Geophys Res Solid Earth 114:B8 Peacock SM, Christensen NI, Bostock MG, Audet P (2011) High pore pressures and porosity at 35 km depth in the Cascadia subduction zone. Geology 39:471–474 Peng Z, Gomberg J (2010) An integrated perspective of the continuum between earthquakes and slow-slip phenomena. Nat Geosci 3:599–607 Pérez-Campos X, Kim Y, Husker A, Davis PM, Clayton RW, Iglesias A, Pacheco JF, Singh SK, Manea VC, Gurnis M (2008) Horizontal subduction and truncation of the Cocos Plate beneath central Mexico. Geophys Res Lett 35:L18303 Pickering KT, Hiscott RN (2016) Deep marine systems: processes, deposits, environments, tectonics and sedimentation. Wiley, Oxford, 657 pp. Ramberg H (1964) Selective buckling of composite layers with contrasted physical properties : a theory for simultaneous formation of several orders of folds. Tectonophysics 1:307 Ramsay JG (1980) The crack-seal mechanism of rock deformation. Nature 284:135–139 Rogers G, Dragert H (2003) Episodic tremor and slip on the Cascadia subduction zone: the chatter of silent slip. Science 300(5627):1942–1943 Schmidt, W. L., and J. P. Platt (2018), Subduction, accretion, and exhumation of coherent Franciscan blueschist-facies rocks, northern coast ranges, California, Lithosphere Schwartz SY, Rokosky JM (2007) Slow slip events and seismic tremor at circum-Pacific subduction zones. Rev Geophys 45(3):RG3004 Segall P, Rubin AM, Bradley AM, Rice JR (2010) Dilatant strengthening as a mechanism for slow slip events. J Geophys Res 115:B12305 Shelly DR, Beroza GC, Ide S (2007) Non-volcanic tremor and low-frequency earthquake swarms. Nature 446:305–307 Skarbek RM, Rempel AW (2016) Dehydration induced porosity waves and episodic tremor and slip. Geochem Geophys Geosyst 17:442–469 Skarbek RM, Rempel AW, Schmidt DA (2012) Geologic heterogeneity can produce aseismic slip transients. Geophys Res Lett 39, L21306 Stipp M, Tullis J (2003) The recrystallized grain size piezometer for quartz. Geophys Res Lett 30:2088 3-1 - 3-5 Taetz S, John T, Bröcker M, Spandler C, Stracke A (2018) Fast intraslab fluid-flow events linked to pulses of high pore fluid pressure at the subducted plate interface. Earth Planet Sci Lett 482:33–43 Tichelaar BW, Ruff LJ (1993) Depth of seismic coupling along subduction zones. J Geophys Res 98(B2):2017–2037 Warren C, Beaumont C, Jamieson RA (2008) Deep subduction and exhumation: role of crustal strength and strain weakening in continental subduction and ultrahigh-pressure rock exhumation. Tectonics 27:TC6002 Wassmann S, Stöckhert B (2013) Rheology of the plate interface—dissolution precipitation creep in high pressure metamorphic rocks. Tectonophysics 608:1–29 Xia H, Platt JP (2017) Structural and rheological evolution of the Laramide subduction channel in southern California. Solid Earth 8:379–403 JPP gratefully acknowledges a travel grant from Japan Geoscience Union to attend the joint JpGU/AGU meeting held in Chiba, Japan. We thank the reviewers for their comments, which helped us to improve the paper; Simon Wallis for editorial handling; and William Frank for assistance with terminology and referencing. This research was supported in part by NSF grant EAR-1250128 awarded to J.P. Platt. The authors declare that they have no competing interests. Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations. About this article Cite this article Platt, J.P., Xia, H. & Schmidt, W.L. Rheology and stress in subduction zones around the aseismic/seismic transition. Prog Earth Planet Sci 5, 24 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40645-018-0183-8
Q&A: Supernova Remnants and Neutron Stars I saw a photo designated Cas A that is labeled as a 320 year old event from a location 10,000 light years away. I was wondering how the event could have happened 320 years ago and the radiation that produced the image arrive in time for me to view it. Have I misread the caption? We have a special section explaining the age of Cas A. Try http://chandra.harvard.edu/photo/0237/age.html
Protecting reefs—and communities The coral reefs off the coast of Mexico are part of the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest barrier reef system in the world. Millions of tourists visit Mexico each year, attracted by its beauty and culture. But these tourists also place a huge strain on Mexico’s natural resources, including its beautiful coral reefs. We work with government and collaborative partners throughout Mexico, and in key places like Cozumel, to build resilient communities and promote water quality monitoring to keep coral reefs and human communities healthy. Building resilient communities Our work in Mexico is a balance of effective resource management and innovative strategies for sustainable tourism. With more than 15 years of experience working in the region, we focus on: - Visitor management: Helping partners establish guidelines to protect and preserve local attractions, conduct carrying capacity studies, and implement sustainability best practices - Natural resource and cultural asset protection: Protecting coral reefs, local culture, and historical and archeological sites - Destination Management Organizations (DMOs): Creating a unified organization and protocols for popular tourist destinations that will bring key stakeholders to the table to become stewards for their destination - Plan and implement sanitation solutions: Developing projects that provide sustainable financing for wastewater treatment infrastructure, support policy reform, and foster regional dialogue
CapitalBio Deafness Gene Mutation Detection Array Kit is designed for the rapid, high throughput screening of known hotspot mutations related to hereditary hearing loss. Nine mutations in four genes (GJB2, GJB3, SLC26A4 and 12S rRNA) are evaluated simultaneously. Hereditary hearing loss may be inherited from one parent or both who may or may not have a loss of hearing themselves. The disease can be inherited in an autosomal dominant, an autosomal recessive, or an X-linked recessive manner, as well as mitochondrial inheritance. Approximately 0.1% of children are born with profound hearing loss and more than 50% of prelingual deafness is genetic, mostly often autosomal recessive and nonsyndromic. Many different genes are known to cause hereditary hearing loss and deafness. Knowledge of the mutations can help to identify hearing impairment at birth, so that educational programs that stimulate language can begin immediately. Furthermore, it can also provide warning to avoid taking certain types of antibiotics, which are known to cause deafness in children carrying certain gene mutations. Total 1 items , 10 per page , current:1/1Pages Home\|Previous\|Next\|End Jump to page
Some folks just have the gift of language, picking up the new language with ease, navigating through all the mazes that quaint grammatical rules throw at them with flying colors. Well, sign language is a totally different ballgame, and a trio of engineering students from Cornell University have come up with the future forward Sign Language Translator glove as part of their final project. This prototype glove will employ the ingenious use of accelerometers, contact sensors and flex sensors to actually perform a translation of what is deemed as complex finger gestures from the American Sign Language alphabet into spoken letters. In fact, American Sign Language is the sixth most “spoken” language in America, making this unique glove a winner right from its conception. The flex sensors, contact sensors, and accelerometers will function in tandem to receive information in three dimensions, gathering as much data as possible on each finger’s position and the hand’s motion so that it can tell the difference between letters. The subsequent translation will be sent to the base station, where it will then display as well as pronounce the letter, while interfacing with the computer. In order to spur on the aspiring sign language student, there is a game on the computer itself that tests the user’s ability to sign – a neat way of using it for sign language education, no? Filed in Robot.. Read more about
The psychology of buying shoes can vary between men and women, influenced by a combination of cultural, social, and individual factors. While it’s important to remember that individuals differ widely in their motivations for purchasing shoes, there are some general trends and psychological factors that can be observed: 1. Fashion and Style: Many women view shoes as a key element of their overall fashion and style. They may purchase shoes to complement specific outfits or to stay in line with current fashion trends. 2. Self-Expression: Shoes can be a means of self-expression for women. Different shoe styles, colors, and designs can convey their personality, mood, or individuality. 3. Emotional Shopping: Women, more so than men, may engage in emotional shopping. Buying a new pair of shoes can provide a mood boost or serve as a form of retail therapy during times of stress or emotional distress. 4. Collecting: Some women enjoy collecting shoes as a hobby. This can involve acquiring a variety of shoe styles, brands, or limited-edition releases. 5. Social Influence: Peer pressure and societal beauty standards can play a role in women’s shoe purchases. Social media, in particular, can create pressure to own fashionable or high-end footwear. 6. Comfort and Function: While fashion is important, many women also consider comfort and functionality when buying shoes, especially for everyday wear or specific activities (e.g., athletic shoes or work shoes). 1. Functionality: Men often prioritize functionality and practicality when purchasing shoes. They may seek shoes that serve a specific purpose, such as work boots, athletic shoes, or comfortable daily wear. 2. Durability: Durability and quality are important factors for many men. They may be willing to invest in higher-priced shoes if they believe they will last longer and provide better value over time. 3. Brand Loyalty: Some men are brand loyal and may stick to familiar brands that they trust for their footwear needs. 4. Impulse Purchases: Men are generally less likely to engage in impulse shoe purchases compared to women. They may have a specific goal or need in mind when shopping for shoes. 5. Minimalism: The minimalist approach to fashion and style can be more common among men. They may prefer a smaller selection of versatile shoes that can match multiple outfits. 6. Comfort: Comfort is essential for men as well, particularly for everyday shoes. Many men prioritize shoes that provide proper support and cushioning. It’s important to note that these general trends do not apply to everyone, and individual preferences can vary widely. Additionally, the way people approach shoe shopping can change over time and may be influenced by life stages, personal experiences, and evolving fashion trends. Ultimately, whether for men or women, the psychology of buying shoes can encompass a mix of practicality, fashion, comfort, and personal expression, driven by a complex interplay of individual motivations and external influences.
(Korean: "art of kicking and punching"), Korean art of unarmed combat that is based Karate. The name Tae Kwon Do was officially adopted for this martial art in 1959 after that name had been submitted by the South Korean general Choi Hong Hi, the principal founder of Tae Kwon Do. Tae Kwon Do is characterized by the extensive use of high standing and jump kicks as well as punches and is practiced mainly for sport, but also for self-defense. Training in Tae Kwon Do is carried out by learning individual techniques of kicking, punching, and blocking, which are practiced in combined series of techniques in traditional sets known as hyung. (Proficiency in the graded series of hyung determines rank in the lower grades.) Students also practice basic sparring combinations (il-bo taeryun, "one-step sparring"); these are short, set sequences of attack and counter practiced between partners, after which the students may practice free sparring as opponents. In sparring, blows are stopped just short of contact. Tae Kwon Do is practiced as a sport by awarding points to correctly executed techniques during free sparring or by judging the quality of performed hyung. To Learn More About the Different Korean Styles and Receive Online Instruction, See Below:
The deadliest 'Zaire' strain of the Ebola virus is spreading across parts of equatorial Africa at a rate of 50 kilometres a year, say researchers writing in the journal PLoS Biology this week (24 October). Efforts to protect villagers, and some of the region's last remaining wild apes, from the disease it causes should focus on tackling the front of the virus's "advancing wave", says the team. The finding goes against the theory that the virus lies dormant most of the time, erupting in random outbreaks because of unknown environmental factors, and helped by increased contact between human and ape populations. Peter Walsh of the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Primatology in Germany, and colleagues, looked at the genetic sequences of some of the Ebola viruses that caused outbreaks in equatorial Africa over the past 30 years. They found that they were all closely related to the virus that hit Yambuku in the Democratic Republic of Congo (then Zaire) in 1976. What's more, the further the later outbreaks were from Yambuku, the more their genetic sequences differed. This suggested that the viruses all originated from the 1976 Yambuku virus, and changed gradually as they spread out outwards. Maps of Ebola Zaire outbreaks Photo Credit (Walsh et al.) Walsh began developing the theory that the Ebola virus was spreading in the 1990s when conservationists and villagers noticed that, west of Gabon's Ogooue river, the gorilla population was falling. To the east, however, the gorillas seemed to be fine. Then, in 2001, the researchers noticed that the gorillas were dying-off in large numbers on the east side too. They reasoned that the river had been protecting the apes by acting as a barrier to the virus — but that the barrier had now been breached. The genetic data suggests that the virus crossed the river during a 1996 human outbreak at the riverside village Booue. Some researchers have contested Walsh and colleagues' findings, saying that a study of antibodies — proteins that the immune system makes to fight a virus — indicated that the Ebola virus has already been present throughout the region. But Walsh believes these antibody findings may be skewed, and could indicate the presence of another strain of Ebola, rather than the Zaire strain that his team studied. In May 2005, while the paper was in publication, an outbreak of Ebola occurred at Etoumbi village in Gabon. The location of the outbreak lends support to the researchers' theory that Ebola outbreaks in the region are caused by the virus spreading, rather than by a dormant strain emerging at each site.Link to full paper in PLoS Biology
A bank examiner is a professional who is a Federal Reserve Bank employee. They are detail-oriented individuals who must ensure that chartered banks are operating in a correct and legal manner and that they are ethical with all monetary transactions. They must also verify that banks are operating in compliance with the requirements and guidelines set by the Federal Reserve Bank. Bank examiners analyze banks' records both with on-site visits and via computer access to determine the bank's financial status and whether the bank is complying with the required operating and accounting procedures. They verify the banks' books checking both cash on hand and cash liabilities to insure that banks have the required level of assets. They also review the bank's lending policies to make sure they meet federal guidelines. Bank examiners put the bank on notice if anything is not up to federal standards and then follow up to make sure any needed changes are implemented. They report to the bank board of directors or management when there is a need for such notice. Bank examiners are associated with a regional Federal Reserve Bank and they are charged with monitoring the activities of that reserve bank to insure it is in compliance with federal regulations. To qualify for a position as a bank examiner a person must have strong educational credentials as well as extensive experience in finance and accounting including familiarity with spread sheets accounting programs and word processing. Many bank examiners have worked in jobs as bank managers so they are familiar with bank operations. Because it carries such great responsibility the standards are high to qualify for bank examiner jobs. According to Cbsalary.com in the United States bank examiners earn a median annual salary of approximately $74000 per year.
People who have alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency don't always develop serious lung or liver diseases. This means that you can have AAT deficiency and not even know it. If you already know you have AAT deficiency, you probably also have a related lung or liver disease. Ongoing medical care and lifestyle changes can help you manage your health. Ongoing Medical Care If you have AAT deficiency, you'll need ongoing medical care. Talk with your doctor about how often you should schedule medical visits. Take all of your medicines as prescribed, and follow your treatment plan. Get flu and pneumococcal vaccines to protect you from illnesses that may worsen your condition. If you have a lung infection, get treatment right away. You also should get treatment right away for any breathing problems. If treatment includes pulmonary rehabilitation, work with your health care team to learn how to manage your condition and function at your best. Quit Smoking and Avoid Lung Irritants If you smoke, quit. If you don't smoke, don't start. Smoking is the leading risk factor for life-threatening lung disease if you have AAT deficiency. Talk with your doctor about programs and products that can help you quit smoking. If you have trouble quitting smoking on your own, consider joining a support group. Many hospitals, workplaces, and community groups offer classes to help people quit smoking. For more information about how to quit smoking, go to the Health Topics Smoking and Your Heart article and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's (NHLBI's) "Your Guide to a Healthy Heart." Although these resources focus on heart health, they include basic information about how to quit smoking. Also, try to avoid secondhand smoke and other lung irritants, such as dust, fumes, or toxins. Check your living and working spaces for things that may irritate your lungs. Examples include flower and tree pollen, ash, allergens, air pollution, wood burning stoves, paint fumes, and fumes from cleaning products and other household items. Because AAT deficiency is inherited, your children may have the condition or carry the gene for it. Advise them to avoid smoking and to stay away from places where they might inhale irritants or toxins. Follow a Healthy Diet A healthy diet is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. A healthy diet includes a variety of vegetables and fruits. It also includes whole grains, fat-free or low-fat dairy products, and protein foods, such as lean meats, poultry without skin, seafood, processed soy products, nuts, seeds, beans, and peas. A healthy diet is low in sodium (salt), added sugars, solid fats, and refined grains. Solid fats are saturated fat and trans fatty acids. Refined grains come from processing whole grains, which results in a loss of nutrients (such as dietary fiber). For more information about following a healthy diet, go to the NHLBI's "Your Guide to Lowering Your Blood Pressure With DASH" and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's ChooseMyPlate.gov Web site. Both resources provide general information about healthy eating. Also, talk with your doctor about whether it's safe for you to drink alcohol. Be Physically Active Try to do physical activity regularly. Talk with your doctor about how much and what types of activity are safe for you. For more information about physical activity, go to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' "2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans," the Health Topics Physical Activity and Your Heart article, and the NHLBI's "Your Guide to Physical Activity and Your Heart." These resources provide information about the benefits of physical activity. Learning how to manage stress, relax, and cope with problems can improve your emotional and physical health. Relaxation techniques—such as meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, and muscle relaxation—can help you cope with stress. Emotional Issues and Support Living with AAT deficiency may cause fear, anxiety, depression, and stress. Talk about how you feel with your health care team. Talking to a professional counselor also can help. If you're very depressed, your doctor may recommend medicines or other treatments that can improve your quality of life. Joining a patient support group may help you adjust to living with AAT deficiency. You can see how other people who have the same symptoms have coped with them. Talk with your doctor about local support groups or check with an area medical center. Support from family and friends also can help relieve stress and anxiety. Let your loved ones know how you feel and what they can do to help you.
Women were a cornerstone of Nazi social policy. The Nazis opposed the feminist movement, claiming that it was the creation of Jewish intellectuals, instead advocating a patriarchal society in which the German woman would recognise that her "world is her husband, her family, her children, and her home". Feminist groups were shut down or incorporated into the National Socialist Women's League, which coordinated groups throughout the country to promote motherhood and household activities. Courses were offered on childrearing, sewing, and cooking. Prominent feminists, including Anita Augspurg, Lida Gustava Heymann, and Helene Stöcker, felt forced to live in exile. The League published the NS-Frauen-Warte, the only NSDAP-approved women's magazine in Nazi Germany; despite some propaganda aspects, it was predominantly an ordinary woman's magazine. Lt.-Col. Anatoly Shapiro, Ukrainian Jew, commanded the Red Army’s 1085th ‘Tarnopol’ Rifle Regiment that liberated Auschwitz on January 27, 1945. The soldiers found about 650 corpses inside the barracks and near them — mostly women who died of exhaustion or were shot by the SS the night before. Altogether, the Soviet troops found at least 1,200 emaciated survivors in Auschwitz and another 5,800 at Birkenau. They fed them but most could not eat because they were too malnourished. Ultimately, another soldier said the Red Army managed to save 2,819 inmates in Red Army Military Hospital 2962. Germany was known as the Weimar Republic during the years 1919 to 1933. It was a republic with a semi-presidential system. The Weimar Republic faced numerous problems, including hyperinflation, political extremism (including violence from left- and right-wing paramilitaries), contentious relationships with the Allied victors of World War I, and a series of failed attempts at coalition government by divided political parties. Severe setbacks to the German economy began after World War I ended, partly because of reparations payments required under the 1919 Treaty of Versailles. The government printed money to make the payments and to repay the country's war debt, but the resulting hyperinflation led to inflated prices for consumer goods, economic chaos, and food riots. When the government defaulted on their reparations payments in January 1923, French troops occupied German industrial areas along the Ruhr and widespread civil unrest followed. ^ This was the result of either a club foot or osteomyelitis. Goebbels is commonly said to have had club foot (talipes equinovarus), a congenital condition. William L. Shirer, who worked in Berlin as a journalist in the 1930s and was acquainted with Goebbels, wrote in The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich (1960) that the deformity was caused by a childhood attack of osteomyelitis and a failed operation to correct it. Nazism’s principal instrument of control was the unification, under Heinrich Himmler and his chief lieutenant, Reinhard Heydrich, of the SS (the uniformed police force of the Nazi Party) and all other police and security organizations. Opposition to the regime was destroyed either by outright terror or, more frequently, by the all-pervading fear of possible repression. Opponents of the regime were branded enemies of the state and of the people, and an elaborate web of informers—often members of the family or intimate friends—imposed utmost caution on all expressions and activities. Justice was no longer recognized as objective but was completely subordinated to the alleged needs and interests of the Volk. In addition to the now-debased methods of the normal judicial process, special detention camps were erected. In these camps the SS exercised supreme authority and introduced a system of sadistic brutality unrivaled in modern times. Many of the horrors associated with Auschwitz—gas chambers, medical experiments, working prisoners to death—had been pioneered in earlier concentration camps. In the late thirties, driven largely by Himmler’s ambition to make the S.S. an independent economic and military power within the state, the K.L. began a transformation from a site of punishment to a site of production. The two missions were connected: the “work-shy” and other unproductive elements were seen as “useless mouths,” and forced labor was a way of making them contribute to the community. Oswald Pohl, the S.S. bureaucrat in charge of economic affairs, had gained control of the camps by 1938, and began a series of grandiose building projects. The most ambitious was the construction of a brick factory near Sachsenhausen, which was intended to produce a hundred and fifty million bricks a year, using cutting-edge equipment and camp labor. Aryan mysticism claimed that Christianity originated in Aryan religious traditions, and that Jews had usurped the legend from Aryans. Houston Stewart Chamberlain, an English-born German proponent of racial theory, supported notions of Germanic supremacy and antisemitism in Germany. Chamberlain's work, The Foundations of the Nineteenth Century (1899), praised Germanic peoples for their creativity and idealism while asserting that the Germanic spirit was threatened by a "Jewish" spirit of selfishness and materialism. Chamberlain used his thesis to promote monarchical conservatism while denouncing democracy, liberalism and socialism. The book became popular, especially in Germany. Chamberlain stressed a nation's need to maintain its racial purity in order to prevent its degeneration and argued that racial intermingling with Jews should never be permitted. In 1923, Chamberlain met Hitler, whom he admired as a leader of the rebirth of the free spirit. Madison Grant's work The Passing of the Great Race (1916) advocated Nordicism and proposed that a eugenics program should be implemented in order to preserve the purity of the Nordic race. After reading the book, Hitler called it "my Bible". Heinrich Himmler's Schutzstaffel (SS) took full control of the police and the concentration camps throughout Germany in 1934–35. Himmler expanded the role of the camps to hold so-called "racially undesirable elements", such as Jews, Gypsies/Romanis/Sintis, Serbs, Poles, disabled people, and criminals. The number of people in the camps, which had fallen to 7,500, grew again to 21,000 by the start of World War II and peaked at 715,000 in January 1945.
\| The theory I've been working on holds that beyond, (or above, or outside) the space-time continuum we call the universe exists something I call the Trans-Light State. This would be the state of existence which prevails once the light barrier has been broken. Yes, I understand, and agree, that nothing can accelerate to faster-than-light speeds, but not for the reasons commonly given. This is because, once the light barrier is broken, time ceases to pass, and without time, the very concepts identified by the terms "faster than," and "travel," become meaningless. Now, since it stands to reason that all of existence, (i.e., inside and outside the trans-light state), is continuous, it makes sense to consider what happens at the interface between our space-time continuum and the trans-light state. Logically, something in the trans-light state would manifest itself in our four-dimensional "reality" as an omnipresent, (i.e., with no apparent speed), eternal entity... or "field." Two possibilities come to mind: gravity and magnetism. Because magnetism, per unit mass, is about 10^39 more powerful than gravity, I've chosen to consider magnetism. So yes, I'm ASSUMING that the trans-light state exists, and further assuming that what we call magnetism is a manifestation of something in the trans-light state which impinges on our universe. The relationship of the trans-light state to the space-time continuum is described in the next paragraph. Unlike the usual modern scientific approach, I'm suggesting we move from theory to experiment, and THEN to the math formulae. I'll describe one of several possible experiments at the end of this piece. According to the theory, magnetism in its "free" state, (i.e., untethered to matter), exists in the trans-light state as a kind of standing wave... or helix... or, as has been suggested, a circle drawn over time... one "turn" encompassing the entire material universe. Since, as has been explained, nothing can "travel faster than" light, we can say that the helix propagates at just the other side of the light barrier. Now, should that helix be compressed, (by something like, say, the Big Bang), the speed of propagation drops to less than c, and we get what we call light, or energy. Should the helix be FURTHER compressed, so that, like an abused Slinky toy, the spiral coil develops kinks... that's what we call matter. The larger the "kink," the greater the mass, and the larger the number of "loose ends", (i.e., the points at which the coil enters and leaves the "knot"), the greater the gravity. So I'm saying that gravity is a byproduct of a particularly degraded form of "free" magnetism. I'd therefore describe electromagnetism as the manifestation of a type of harmonic resonance between the spiral path of the electric current as it travels around the would-be magnet, and the "crushed" magnetic spirals of which the matter is itself composed. Now, because, as suggested, magnetism exists at the very interface between our universe and the trans-light state, it seems logical that the transition from magnetism as we know it to the trans-light state would involve a relatively tiny input of energy. My contention is that this is what happens when a magnet is heated to the Curie Point and suddenly loses its magnetic properties. In other words, what then takes place is that the magnetic flux which until then has been "tethered" to matter... circulating around and through the magnet in a three-dimensional torus... is "liberated" to rejoin the trans-universal helix, or standing wave. There is already some experimental evidence which seems to indicate that "something" exits the north pole of every magnet and enters the south pole. I'm saying that, at the Curie Point, this "something" doesn't just disappear or “collapse,” as is currently believed, but continues to propagate, albeit in a virtually straight line from the north pole. For the vanishingly small instant of time in which this happens, our magnet can be said to be a pseudo-monopole; the south pole still exists, but it is now at the furthest end of the universe, i.e., at the other end of the trans-universal helix, allowing us to make use of the pseudo-monopole as if it were IN FACT a monopole. Such pulsing pseudo-monopoles, employed in conjunction with neutral density encapsulation, might be used to create a viable interstellar drive. I can supply more details of this on request, but we're getting a little ahead of ourselves. Align two small bar magnets precisely, so that the north pole of one faces the north pole of the other, with the two magnets separated by a distance great enough so that the "fields" no longer interact to any currently measurable degree... say 10 feet. The alignment would be vertical; one magnet 10 feet above the other. The upper magnet is then heated to the Curie Point. What we'd be looking for is a “push” on the unheated magnet; an extraordinarily brief time during which the unheated magnet appears to "weigh" more. If this impulse effect is NOT observed, it doesn't necessarily invalidate the theory; it's possible that the effect happens so quickly that it eludes our ability to detect it. In that case, the experiment should be tried again, this time with the heated magnet encased in a constantly charged DC electrical coil, and with its temperature rapidly raised and lowered to just above and just below the Curie Point. As I mentioned, should a pseudomonopolar drive prove feasible, it would be possible to leave and re-enter our space-time continuum by using the drive to propel a vessel through the light barrier and into the trans-light state. It occurs to me that, in such a case, the vector chosen could be quite significant. As you sit reading this, you are traveling at a significant percentage of the speed of light... a combination of the vectors involved in the rotation of the Earth on its axis, its orbit around the Sun, the Sun's orbit around the galactic core and the galaxy's movement through the universe. These various motions (some perhaps canceling out others) result in a net vector, and a net velocity. So, of all the possible vectors which could be chosen, two could have special significance; moving "along" the net vector would give a vessel a "head start" on attaining light speed, at which point time ceases to pass, while moving "against" that vector would be to approach Absolute Rest, in which state time passes infinitely quickly, according to Einstein. But if, in the course of accelerating along one of these two "special" vectors, one enters the trans-light state, then one can be said to have "dropped out" of our material universe in either a "forward" or "backwards" direction. Imagine standing on a long, flat-bed train traveling at a fixed velocity, and then either running in the direction of travel, but at a higher velocity, and jumping off, or running backwards, against the direction of travel, before jumping off. In the first case, if one could rejoin the train before any time has passed, one would find oneself closer to the front of the train. In the latter case, one would find oneself nearer the caboose. The analogy is not perfect, but I hope it serves to make my point -- that leaving the space-time continuum by accelerating into the trans-light state along the already-existing net vector of travel, or against that vector, should mean it is possible (inevitable maybe) that one would "rejoin the train" -- i.e. re-enter the material universe, at a point either "ahead of" or "behind" the point of departure. See here for a scientist's use of this idea. Thoughts on Hubble's "red shift" and two predictions. It occurs to me that when Hubble invoked the Doppler Effect to "explain" the odd spectral signatures he was seeing from distant galaxies, it was an inspired guess, but wrong. Rather than resulting from the "red shifting" or "blue shifting" of light -- and hence implying movement away from or toward the viewer -- these signatures were exactly what they seemed to be: it is not light which "shifts" but matter.... or, more accurately, the smallest constituent of matter. My prediction is that when this smallest constituent is finally discovered, it will be found to have a locally constant, but universally variable mass. In other words, the mass of that smallest particle will vary across the universe, dependent on the mass of the "parent body" of which it is a part, but will be a constant within any one such "parent body" -- that constant being about 10^-39 the mass of the parent body. By the term "parent body" I'm referring to the theory's suggestion that matter comes into existence in "clumps" which are rarely less massive than a galaxy, or more massive than a galactic cluster. The mass of matter's smallest constituent will vary, depending on the mass of the "clump" in which it is found. As a consequence of these differences in the mass of their smallest particle, the spectra of the "parent bodies" in which they appear may well fall into the "invisible" ends of the electromagnetic spectrum... explaining what we call "dark matter." I predict that the ratio of "dark" matter to visible matter will echo the ratio between the visible and invisible portions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Return to Jerusalem Journal To Esek Homepage. March 4, 2005
Can today’s churches regain the power they once held? Religious practices have always been a part of the Black experience. Since the first enslaved African arrived in America, they and their descendants have practiced some form of worship. There are learned beliefs considered sacred in Black society that determine the values and morals for living. The story of Black religion and the power of the Black church is a narrative that includes the history of Black migration, self-determination, social class and urbanization. From the early 1800s, Chattanooga became the destination of Black rural peasants from the surrounding areas. They viewed the city as a place of freedom and opportunity. They were attracted to the city by the potential for work, free public education and a “better life” for their children. They were escaping anti-Black violence, lynchings, poverty and exploitation, and they maintained the “faith” through their proscribed religious practices. They became urban proletariats, living side-by-side with other arriving ethnic groups including the Scotch-Irish, Jews, Lebanese, Irish and Germans. Living, working and worshiping were common activities among all the ethnic immigrants. But the color line separated people in all aspects of social life, even church membership. Oddly enough at one time before the Civil War, African Americans in Chattanooga were given access to white sanctuaries such as Cumberland Presbyterian to use as a place of worship. While the order of service followed a basic Christion doctrine, there was also the “shouting” and convulsing in the spirit or “getting happy”. The early preachers tended to be more emotional than intellectual. Like the old blues song used to say, “Oh I think I get religion, I think I’ll join the Baptist Church, then I can become a preacher and I won’t have to work”. The urban migrants brought the memories of the rural-based “invisible underground church” and the “praise house” with them. The invisible underground church that had existed through slavery up until the end of the Civil War was clandestine in nature. In most slave-holding states there were conduct laws which prohibited free Black and enslaved Africans from gathering. The early form of church provided them with an outlet to come together and fellowship. In most cases, the religious ceremonies followed the doctrines of Christianity. There was a form of syncretism that occurred when traditional religious beliefs were merged with Christianity. From this resulted various forms of voodoo, hoodoo, and condomble. This was based on a Yoruban cosmology which was polytheistic. Interestingly enough, our city was always known for its share of Blacks who were palm readers, root doctors, and fortune tellers. Evidence of this is found in local Black folklore and superstitions. As they became acculturated to urban living, Blacks began to organize their own Christian churches. At first they had patronage from white Methodists and Baptists. A few white Southern congregations welcomed them into their midst as equals as brothers and sisters in Christ. Because urban life was more complex, Black religious people also had to adjust some of the moral codes. By the early 20th century, most Black Baptist and Methodist congregations had dropped their ban on dancing, socializing, card playing and some sports. Slowly, the Black church also added social programs and social services for its members. In some cases, Black churches and ministers got involved in campaigns to end lynching and segregation. The music of the Black church also became more secularized with the marriage of the spirituals and the blues—which gave birth to “gospel music”. Like all American ethnic groups, African Americans in Chattanooga recognized the importance of organized religion. Not only was it a place to get “salvation”, it could also be a place to build economic cooperation, education and enter the arena of politics. Black organized religion enabled people to build their own churches and form their own “mutual aid societies”. It was inside the Black church that some of the first independent Black schools were set up to teach basic literacy, mathematics—and of course, religion. Historically, the majority of African Americans worshiping in Chattanooga have been either Methodist or Baptist. There were also very small congregations of “salvation cults” such as the Moorish Science Temple and the Nation of Islam. Salvation cults seek salvation through not being identified as Christian and/or Western influenced. The founder of the Black Hebrew Nation, Prophet F.S. Cherry, started The Church of the Living God, the Pillar of Truth of all Nations in Chattanooga in 1886. Soon after its start, Prophet Cherry migrated to Philadelphia where he continued to grow his congregation. At the end of the Civil War, the number of African Americans living in the city continued to increase. Former enslaved Africans and free Blacks pooled their talents and skills in order to build church sanctuaries. One of the earliest Black churches to be organized in the city was Rock Baptist Church in 1866. It later became known as Shiloh Baptist Church, and by 1885 it was known as First Baptist Church on East Eightth Street. (The church today is recognized as a historical landmark by the federal government. Ironically, this same congregation rejected Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as its pastor in the mid-1950s. The majority of its members thought that he was too young to shoulder the responsibilities of pastor.) In 1867, the First Congregational Church was founded. Between 1880 and 1890, Blacks in Chattanooga founded Grace Memorial Church, St. James Church, Monumental Baptist Church, Leonard Street Church and Warren Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church. It was at Warren Chapel in 1901 where a rare interracial program of service was held. At one time, Chattanooga was the location of Zion College. Zion had a department of religious studies and was located on what is now Martin Luther King Boulevard near Central Avenue. After moving into the Fort Wood community, it became Chattanooga City College in the mid-1960s and later was merged with the University of Chattanooga. The Black church has always played an active and pivotal role in Black politics. Without the Black Church and its resources, there would not have been a modern-day civil rights movement. In the 1960s, a number of Black ministers and churches got involved in the civil rights movement. The Rev. Paul McDaniel of Second Baptist Church made history in front of the U.S. Supreme Court when he sucessefully challenged a ruling that attempted to prevent clergy in Tennessee from serving in elected office. He went on to serve several terms as a Hamilton County commissioner along with fellow clergyman and attorney Rev. Rhuebin Taylor. One of the most outspoken ministers in modern time in the city was the Rev. John Edwards, Sr. of Cosmopolitan Community Church. Before he went on to become well known for his work with the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and Dr. King, Rev. C.T. Vivian was very active in the local movements for social and economic justice in Chattanooga. Sadly, today membership in traditional Christian Black churches is declining. There is also the problem of escapism, religious fanaticism and materialism. The emerging mega-churches with their message of “prosperity” have ignored the realities of racism, sexism and class inequality. It is time for the Black church to get off its knees and back into the freedom struggle. Homelessness, mass incarceration, residential segregation, poverty and a host of other problems will not end by simply praying and hoping for prosperity. Any successful strategy for liberation will have to come from a well-thought-out and pragmatic view of the situation—which includes social action.
Welcome to the Information and Library Services tutorial on using Find It to find full text articles. This presentation takes about two minutes to watch, and will show you how to use the Find It button to find the full text of articles from library database search results. At times the full text of an article may not be available in the particular database that you’re searching in. When that happens, click on the yellow Find It button. You’ll see the Find It button below individual articles in database search results, and also in the more detailed descriptions of those articles in the databases. Clicking on the Find It button will show you whether full text is available in another database that the Library subscribes to. In this example, full text is not available in the Ageline database full text is available in the Science Direct database, however. Clicking on the "Get Full Text..." link will take us into the database, and to the full text of the article. When a database contains the full text of an article, you will generally see a link to it, either as a PDF or as an HTML document. In this case, Science Direct gives us a link to a PDF of the full text of the article. Remember if you’re citing an article always to use the database where you found its full text in your citation. And here’s the full text of the article. Because the full text of an article may be available to you in a database other than the particular database that you’re searching in, you should not limit a search only to articles available in full text in that database. You risk missing useful material that’s immediately available to you elsewhere. For more information about using Find It to find full text articles, please see the Library’s Find It FAQ. Click on the "How Do I" link on the Library home page, then on "Find Materials", then scroll down and click on the "Find It: FAQ" link. If you have questions about using Find It, or about any other library resource or service, you can get help twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week by clicking on the Ask a Librarian button on any UMUC Library page. Thank you very much for watching this presentation.
(CNN) -- Jockin Arputham has been a slum dweller for 43 years, one of more than a million across India. He shares a 30-hectare (72-acre) plot of land on the outskirts of Mumbai with about 70,000 other people, with communal toilets and self-built homes. Arputham, 64, started advocating for rights for slum dwellers 40 years ago when he was threatened with eviction. "How could I be silent when my slum was going to be demolished and we were going to be made homeless?" Arputham explained to CNN. Arputham is now the president of Slum Dwellers International, a confederation of urban poor in 28 national organizations, and his campaign is as relevant as it was 40 years ago. A third of the urban population in developing regions lives in slums, according to U.N. Habitat, the United Nations department that focuses on urban development. How to handle these makeshift settlements -- which often are overcrowded, lack adequate water supply and sanitation and whose residents' land rights are usually insecure -- is a challenge facing cities around the world. It's a problem that isn't going away. U.N. Habitat forecasts that the number of slum dwellers in the world will grow by 6 million a year and reach 889 million by 2020. "First of all, city authorities need to acknowledge they have a slum problem and set targets for how to reduce it," said Eduardo Moreno, head of U.N. Habitat's Global Urban Observatory. "Many cities automatically respond that they don't have slums or that they are very small, but data from U.N. Habitat shows it's more than the city authorities like to believe." Moreno says governments need to invest heavily in reducing urban poverty and involve communities in their programs to improve slum conditions. Progress is being made. Across the developing world, the proportion of city dwellers living in slums has fallen to 33 percent from 46 percent in 1990, U.N. Habitat says, mainly through upgrading slums. However, while the proportion in slums has fallen, the absolute number of people living in them has risen because of rapidly growing urban populations. To reduce the absolute numbers, "you need to not only improve the slums but create conditions to prevent new slums forming," Moreno told CNN. "National, regional and city authorities need to work together to predict growth of cities and provide affordable land and housing for migrants to move into," he added. China, for instance, has reduced the proportion of its urban population living in slums by a quarter since 2000 by offering tax breaks to developers who build affordable homes, according to U.N. Habitat. "The government has gradually been demolishing these areas and building new homes for people to move into," said Yiyi Lu, an expert in Chinese politics and social development at London-based think tank Chatham House and a research fellow at the University of Nottingham. There are still large numbers of migrants living in relatively cheap accommodation on the outskirts of cities, she said, "but it is proper accommodation with basic facilities and is not concentrated in large scale areas." But clearing slums and rehousing their residents elsewhere isn't a long-term solution, says Jeb Brugmann, an urban development consultant and author of "Welcome to the Urban Revolution." "There is no history of success in clearing slums and moving the people somewhere else," he said. Instead, he argues, governments should concentrate on improving the conditions of slums, which he prefers to call "migrant cities." He told CNN: "The fact that low-income people save money and use their own labor to create urban settlements is not bad. What's bad is when governments don't help them." When offered the proper support, slums can become very "robust, resilient, economic districts," Brugmann said, pointing to Brazil's approach to its slums, also known as favelas. Brazil has brought basic services, such as drainage, water, schools and health clinics, to its favelas. It's also helping residents who have brought their dwellings up to the standard for municipal buildings get legal titles to the land. It's also helping get rid of gangs "so the police can have a stable relationship with the communities and people are not living in fear of organized criminals," Brugmann said. Arputham agrees that governments should be helping slum dwellers gain legal rights to their land. He advocates for allowing communities to be involved in decision making. "We need community-based projects with government support to improve our slums," he said. India has been doing that, U.N. Habitat says, citing its efforts to build skills among the urban poor and provide basic services and secure tenure to unauthorized settlements. Consequently, its figures show the percentage of the urban population living in slums in India has been reduced to 28 percent from 41 percent over the past decade. But the view from the slums is quite different. Arputham is skeptical of the figures and says he hasn't seen those measures implemented. "The government keeps talking, but I differentiate between talking and doing," he said. "They talk very well, but the doing is limited."
Colorado River near site of Parker Dam, near Parker (Arizona), 1934 - Colorado River near site of Parker Dam, near Parker (Arizona), 1934 - Date Created - Los Angeles Times - No linguistic content - Los Angeles Times Photographic Collection Related to the article, “History in the Making, Events of the Week in Review,” Los Angeles Times, March 11, 1934. the article states: " … Arizona’s “war” on California to prevent the building of the Metropolitan Water District’s dam at Parker got under way at the week-end with the mobilization on orders of Gov. Moeur of five soldiers and one officer of the Arizona National Guard at the dam site. California officials professed not to be much worried. The dam is to be built, not by the State or water district, but by the Federal government, and Gov. Moeur may have Uncle Sam to contend with if he interferes." In 1934, with plans in place for United States Reclamation Service and the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California to build Parker Dam on the Colorado River between Arizona and California, Arizona governor Benjamin B. Moeur protested the diversion of water to California by sending members of the Arizona National Guard to the dam construction site. A local ferry service also participated under the informal name of the Arizona Navy. Section of Colorado River, with calm water in foreground, desert area with shrubs, dunes, and mountains in background - 1 photograph - b&w nitrate negative Find This Item - University of California, Los Angeles. Library. Department of Special Collections - Local identifier - Manifest url - Rights statement - Rights Holder - UCLA Charles E. Young Research Library Department of Special Collections, A1713 Young Research Library, Box 951575, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1575. E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.org. Phone: (310)825-4988 - Rights Country - Funding Note - Access to this collection is generously supported by Arcadia funds. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License .
Cantor Helman Lieber Biography The legacy of Cantor Helman Lieber (1904-1987) is a series of magnificently hand-written cantorial books for the complete Shabbos, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services. These books are believed to reflect cantorial melodies that were heard in the synagogues of Latvia in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Cantor Helman Lieber, circa 1950’s Cantor Helman Lieber was born into a musical family with roots in the synagogues of Riga and (now Daugavpils) Latvia. Helman’s handwritten memoir states “We were five brothers, and on wintry nights, my mother would amuse us by telling stories of the old country, , Russia. I have learned so much from these sessions that I can describe things as if I were living there all my life. I have a sharp memory of my childhood.” Helman’s memoir continues “My mother (Lena) was a school teacher…and was well learned…my mother’s father was a very religious scholar…my father Ruben (1878-1955) was the son of a very learned rabbi…a musical cantorial scholar and choirmaster, and had a beautiful tenor voice. He sang in grand choirs.” Ruben’s older brother Boruch (1874-1941, killed by the Nazis in the Rumbula Forest Massacre, and Ruben’s younger brother David (1891-1977), were both educated as cantors and (religious scribes). Their father, Rabbi Aryeh Labe Mayer Lieber (1834-1913), was a secretary to the world renowned Rabbi Meir Simcha HaKohen of Dvinsk (1843-1926), who served as chief rabbi of (non-Hassidic Jews) in from 1883-1913. This was told to David’s grandson Mitchell in a conversation with his grandmother Rose Lieber (wife of David). Helman was born in , Latvia on November 4, 1904. Five days later, his father Ruben arrived in New York City. Young Helman and his mother Lena followed a year later, arriving in New York City on October 2, 1905. Helman’s memoir states “After a stormy voyage on the good ship ‘Fatherland,” we arrived at Ellis Island where we were met by my father…he always spent a lot of time with me as I grew up, and taught me how to sing.” According to Helman’s memoir of what he learned from his father Ruben, “My father’s house (Ruben’s childhood home in ) was of a very strict Orthodox manner. His father (Rabbi Aryeh Labe Mayer) and mother were always praying and conducting services in the shul. His mother (Chana Baila) would pray as good as a cantor for the women, and was highly respected. She would teach the women just like a rabbi. And the rabbi, my grandfather, would hold sermons and explain the Torah.” From this information, we can assume that all three brothers, Boruch, Ruben, and David, were exposed to cantorial tradition at an early age by accompanying their father, Rabbi Aryeh Labe Mayer, to services in . Boruch’s daughter Sonia told her son Michael, that Boruch “Moved to Riga in his mid-20’s to pursue his adult career. He studied Torah scribing under the prolific Vitebsk Sofer, Berka , and married his daughter Hanna.” Helman’s uncle Boruch Lieber Boruch later became the assistant cantor in the Gogol “Great Choral” Synagogue, the largest one in Riga, with a capacity of 1,000 people. According to Wikipedia, “This synagogue was famous throughout the city for its cantors and its choir.” Gogol “Great Choral” Synagogue Boruch’s daughter Sonia told her son Michael that Boruch was also a cantor at the Stabu Street Synagogue in Riga, which was closer to his home. Street Synagogue in Riga According to David’s daughter Mirah, “Boruch, father’s (17 year older) brother, wrote Sefer Torah; he took father at age 9 (in 1900) to sing together, and taught father to be a scribe.” Boruch’s daughter Sonia confirmed to her son Michael that Boruch would take David to sing with him, and that this was both in the Gogol “Great Choral” and synagogues of Riga. David Lieber came to the U.S. in 1912. Upon arrival, he lived with his brother Ruben in New York City for some time. David organized Helman and his brothers into a synagogue choir, featuring Helman as soloist and Ruben as choirmaster. They sang at High Holiday services at synagogues in the Connecticut/New York area. David later moved to Chicago, where he gave concerts with a choir (see flyer below), owned a Jewish bookstore, and tutored students from the Hebrew Theological College, to which his bookstore also sold books. By 1926 he was a Hebrew teacher in Springfield, Illinois and around 1927 he moved to Kansas City where he was cantor and first spiritual leader of Israel synagogue, a Hebrew teacher, choir director, and religious scribe (). Advertisement for a performance of Cantor David Lieber in Chicago. Translation: Chazan David Lieber of New York Will deliver the High Holidays service, with a choir of 18 people, in the Wicker Park Hall, North Avenue and Robey Street (Chicago). The Chazan's address is 906 North Robey Street (now Damen Avenue) Tickets can be purchased in the hall. In a letter to David’s daughter Mirah, Helman wrote in Yiddish, “My beloved uncle (David) – I will remember him forever – he was more than an uncle to me – I sang with him and he taught me to be a Chazan. He used to place me on a bench (stool) so that they could see me – and I used to be his only soloist – my uncle used to take me along everywhere, he would never sing without me, and I was his "soloist.” It is unreal ("impossible" in the original) to have such an endearing uncle – what can I write you – my dear cousin?? You, kids, were not in existence yet, and your Dad was my uncle and Dad as well. He was with me all the time, and I remember him and love him …" It is clear that Helman shared a very special relationship with his uncle David, which went beyond student and teacher. They saw each other frequently, giving David the opportunity to pass on both the cantorial tradition and skills, learned from his older brother Boruch, to his young nephew Helman.
In this Indian ink drawing tutorial you will learn through a time lapse video accompanied by real time voice over narrative how to draw trees, grass and clouds using a variety of tips and techniques. The first step is to get a large sheet of cold press watercolor paper which you can find online or in any decent arts and crafts store. This paper should be fully wetted with clean water using a large brush before then being gum taped all the way around the edges. This enables the paper to dry flat, smooth and free from warping and creases and provides an excellent surface for you to commence with your Indian ink painting. This artist explains how in this art tutorial he will be using the ink as a watercolor and offers you great advice on tools to use and techniques to apply to maximise your painting’s full potential. He uses Higgins black Indian ink throughout the demonstration and begins by using a large round sable brush to paint a light wash which is gray in appearance due to its dilution with water. This wash is applied liberally and sporadically and forms the basis of the high and low background clouds and allow the focal point, in this case being the tree, to come forward and stand more prominently within the painting. As a general rule within watercolor painting the higher the clouds are then the darker they should be and vice versa for the lower and more faint clouds. The tree outline is loosely painted with a smaller round sable brush in a light gray again and is reworked with a fountain pen to allow greater detailing and definition to its edges and outlines. A stipple technique is used next when painting the leaves to create a sense of volume rather than meticulously trying to pick out individual leaves which is a sure fire way to over complicate and potential ruin a painting. Once the cluster of leaves have been established you can then use the likes of a small round sable brush to softly blend creating further volume and a sense of depth bring the tree further to the foreground. At this point in the tutorial the artist regresses back to the clouds adding further adding more natural detailing with the ink to the clouds and surrounding areas to further emphasise the impression of realism. The grass mound where the tree is situated is painted using a sable fan brush but as with the leaves he uses a stippling technique to highlight and give the impression of certain areas rather than trying to tackle each individual blade of grass. It is because of the shape and style of this fan brush which makes this an invaluable tool for the type of ink painting. Sable brushes are more valuable to use with inks than their counterpart synthetic versions due to their ability to hold in a lot more ink meaning less trips to ink pot and more concentration on the painting itself. This video is very thorough and ideal for the beginner inks and watercolor painter and harbours some great tips and techniques for you to further your paintings and learn how to use Indian ink.
Acoustic fish tags are used to monitor and track fish movements. Small tags are surgically implanted, injected, fed (via baited fish), or externally attached to a fish. The tags transmit a high frequency “ping” which can be heard as far as half a kilometer away. Acoustic receivers are strategically placed around the area of interest to listen for these pings. The receivers can be placed on anchored buoys, cabled underwater arrays, or existing oil and gas platforms, as well as integrated into ocean gliders, or even carried by other marine animals, such as elephant seals. As acoustic signals from tags are detected and recorded by the receiver array, travel time can be calculated, and the fish’s location pinpointed. The accuracy of this method depends on the position of the tag relative to the receiver(s), the background noise (ambient noise) level relative to the frequency of the ping, and the accuracy of the assumed speed of sound in water. Tagged individuals can be tracked for periods ranging from days to years. Study durations are determined by tag battery life, attachment method, and data resolution/complexity. A common application of acoustic telemetry is to investigate animal behavior and survival. Atlantic salmon are anadromous fish that migrate between freshwater spawning and nursery habitats to ocean feeding grounds. Historically, they were found in North American waters from Long Island Sound in the United States to Ungava Bay in Northeastern Canada. Dams, pollution, overfishing, and other factors led to significant declines in the wild Atlantic salmon stock: by the mid-20th century, the primary distribution of Atlantic salmon in the U.S. was limited to just a few remnant populations in the eastern third of Maine’s coast. Despite conservation efforts, returns of Atlantic salmon to natal rivers remain low. Using acoustic telemetry, scientists and managers can monitor the movement of tagged Atlantic salmon juveniles (“smolts”) as they migrate from rivers, through estuaries, and into the nearshore marine environment. Data gathered allow for a better understanding of the timing and duration of migration, routes of travel, areas used for holding and rearing, and locations of high mortality. This information can then be used to estimate abundance, evaluate mitigation efforts, and improve conservation plans. Similar research and management regimes are being implemented for Pacific populations of endangered salmon and steelhead, whose migration behavior and survival rates have been significantly impacted by the installation of hydroelectric dams in their natal rivers. It is important to note that many marine predators, including fish and marine mammals, prey upon tagged juvenile salmon, and this complicates survivorship estimates determined through acoustic telemetry. Studies have shown pinnipeds to detect and selectively target fishes carrying high frequency acoustic tags. Other research has shown the characteristics of emitted pings to change post-predation event, and scientists may be able to use this data to correct survivorship estimates. Acoustic telemetry can also be used to assess multispecies movements. Tagging data can help managers evaluate the functionality of marine protected areas (MPAs) delineated to help rebuild depleted coral reef fish populations. Acoustic tags have also been used to track and monitor the behavior of several elasmobranch species, including tiger sharks, blue sharks, manta rays, and great white sharks. Data reveal distinct patterns of habitat use and movement of animals not previously identified. Tagged great white sharks in South Africa were detected in all months and across all years in South Bay, however, their use of the Bay varied significantly with season and the sex of the shark. In autumn and winter, animals of both sexes aggregated around a Cape fur seal colony at Seal Island. In spring and summer, females frequented inshore areas (not associated with seal colonies), while males were seldom detected acoustically. In addition to defining habitat associations for this population, the finding that female sharks aggregate in inshore regions, not associated with seal colonies, during periods of high human, recreational use (spring/summer) highlights the need for ongoing shark-human mitigation strategies in this area. Additional Links on DOSITS - Steig and Ehrenberg, 2002, “A Method for Estimating the “Position Accuracy” of Acoustic Fish Tags.” ICES Journal of Marine Science, 59: 140-149. - Innovasea, Acoustic Tags to Track Fish. - NOAA Fisheries, Northeast Salmon Team (NEST) - NOAA Fisheries, Atlantic Salmon Ecosystems Research Team: Maine Telemetry Program. - Dalhousie University, Ocean Tracking Network. - The Census of Marine Life, Pacific Ocean Salmon Tracking (POST) - Brunnschweiler, J. M. (2009). Tracking free-ranging sharks with hand-fed intra-gastric acoustic transmitters. Marine and Freshwater Behaviour and Physiology, 42(3), 201–209. https://doi.org/10.1080/10236240903033519 - Cunningham, K. A., Hayes, S. A., Michelle Wargo Rub, A., & Reichmuth, C. (2014). Auditory detection of ultrasonic coded transmitters by seals and sea lions. The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America, 135(4), 1978–1985. https://doi.org/10.1121/1.4868371 - Deng, Z. D., Carlson, T. J., Li, H., Xiao, J., Myjak, M. J., Lu, J., … Eppard, M. B. (2015). An injectable acoustic transmitter for juvenile salmon. Scientific Reports, 5(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/srep08111 - Donaldson, M. R., Hinch, S. G., Suski, C. D., Fisk, A. T., Heupel, M. R., & Cooke, S. J. (2014). Making connections in aquatic ecosystems with acoustic telemetry monitoring. Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment, 12(10), 565–573. https://doi.org/10.1890/130283 - Heupel, M. R., & Simpfendorfer, C. A. (2015). Long-term movement patterns of a coral reef predator. Coral Reefs, 34(2), 679–691. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00338-015-1272-4 - Hussey, N. E., Kessel, S. T., Aarestrup, K., Cooke, S. J., Cowley, P. D., Fisk, A. T., … Whoriskey, F. G. (2015). Aquatic animal telemetry: A panoramic window into the underwater world. Science, 348(6240), 1255642–1255642. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1255642 - Kock, A., O’Riain, M. J., Mauff, K., Meÿer, M., Kotze, D., & Griffiths, C. (2013). Residency, habitat use and sexual segregation of white sharks, Carcharodon carcharias in False Bay, South Africa. PLoS ONE, 8(1), e55048. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0055048 - Pittman, S. J., Monaco, M. E., Friedlander, A. M., Legare, B., Nemeth, R. S., Kendall, M. S., … Caldow, C. (2014). Fish with chips: Tracking reef fish movements to evaluate size and connectivity of Caribbean marine protected areas. PLoS ONE, 9(5), e96028. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0096028 - Stansbury, A. L., Gotz, T., Deecke, V. B., & Janik, V. M. (2014). Grey seals use anthropogenic signals from acoustic tags to locate fish: evidence from a simulated foraging task. Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 282(1798), 20141595–20141595. https://doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2014.1595
Old people say that in the beginning there were three elements – Water, Air and Fire. Water, they say, was the first to be made and will be the last to go, at the end of all things. It was held that all material things which are visible and tangible, including human beings and animals, have their ghostly counterparts in a sort of other half-world. There is still a belief that every land creature is represented in the sea by something closely resembling it. (source: A Second Manx Scrapbook, W Walter Gill (1932); photo)
WASHINGTON, DC – Since the start of his first administration, US President Barack Obama has repeated a simple mantra concerning other countries: “With power comes responsibility.” France has demonstrated repeatedly that it understands and accepts this responsibility; Germany may now be following suit. Several weeks ago, German President Joachim Gauck’s opening address to the 50th annual Munich Security Conference reflected on the Federal Republic’s evolution over those five decades, a period that gave rise to “a good Germany, the best we have ever known.” And, because Germany benefits more than most countries from the current open, value-based international order, it has, Gauck said, a greater responsibility to defend and extend that order. Gauck’s speech reflected the thinking in an important new report, entitled New Power, New Responsibility, released by the Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik and the German Marshall Fund of the United States. The report – the product of several months of debate within the German foreign-policy and security community – identifies Germany’s current values and interests as a commitment to “human dignity, freedom, democracy, the rule of law, and to an international order that is based on universal norms.” As Gauck proclaimed, Germany’s “overriding strategic objective” must be the “preservation and continued adaptation” of this order. To achieve this objective, Germany must become a “shaping power,” a state with the ability to solve problems and resolve conflicts affecting all or part of the international community. The traditional determinants of states’ power relative to other states – geography, demography, economic heft, and military might, coupled with the availability of resources and technological proficiency – remain important; but they are often insufficient to confer actual influence in international politics. A shaping power builds relationships and invests in institutions that allow it to work well with others and to create and mobilize “coalitions and networks of like-minded states.”
Environmental Allergies in Dogs and Cats Environmental allergies typically occur between the age of 1-3 years old, and the symptoms in dogs and cats include scratching, licking, watery eyes, and skin problems. Environmental allergies occur because of irritating substances in an animal's environment. Some common allergens are dust and grass. Pollen is the most common airborne allergy and can travel up to 100 miles. Using a shampoo can help relieve itching and remove scales, bacteria and parasites. Bathing can help keep your pet comfortable by removing environmental allergens. It may also be beneficial to wipe your pet down when he comes inside to remove any pollen on his skin. You can manage environmental allergies with these products: - Doc Roy's® Rescue Derm is a great product for those sensitive, irritated areas like the face. It is safe to use around the eyes, vaginal area, and between the pads of the feet. - Pramoxine Anti-itch spray and shampoo help stop the itch topically. Using Pramoxine Shampoo twice a week gets the pollen off the skin. Pramoxine Spray can be used daily on any area needing extra attention. TREATMENT FOR THE EYES AND EARS Allergens, bacteria and fungus can get stuck in your pet's ears and eyes. Ear and eye care remove allergens and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and fungus, resulting in less itching and irritation. TREATMENT FROM THE INSIDE OUT Omega 3 fatty acids are a great supplement for skin and coat health. They reduce flakiness, itchiness and shedding. Omega 3 also soothes skin inflammation due to scratching and allergies. - Doc Roy's® Derma Coat Plus has Omega 3 & 6 to promote optimal skin health. Derma Coat Plus is designed to help the skin and coat resist allergens while giving a healthy shine to the coat. - Doc Roy's® Tri Omega 3 has anti-inflammatory effects to help stop itching. - Vetadryl™ is an anti-histamine that controls itching and helps pets manage allergies. Note: Vetadryl™ and Tri Omega 3 don’t have the side effects of prescription Prednisone. TREATMENT FOR BACTERIAL AND/OR FUNGAL INFECTIONS If excessive scratching causes bacterial and/or fungal infection, a combination of antibiotics and antifungals are needed to cure. - Antibiotics for skin issues generally start with the Cephalosporin family. - Ketoconazole is an ingredient that works against fungal infection. VET BASICS® ChlorConazole™ Shampoo and Spray contain Ketoconazole to work against fungal infections and Chlorhexidine to work against bacteria skin infection. The antibiotics and antifungals may be needed for 30 days to eliminate the infection and allow the skin to recover. We can’t eliminate allergens but if we keep the allergens off the skin and the resistance to them high, we can live with them! If you need help, call us at 1-800-786-4751. Don Bramlage, DVM, Director of Veterinary Services at Revival Animal Health The materials, information and answers provided through this website are not intended to replace the medical advice or services of your personal veterinarian or other pet health care professional. Consult your own veterinarian for answers to specific medical questions, including diagnosis, treatment, therapy or medical
The ground patterns found in Pulltrouser Swamp, northern Belize, are vestiges of raised and channelized fields, types of wetland cultivation used by the ancient Maya. This form of hydraulic cultivation was apparently employed sometime between 200 B.C. and A.D. 850. The environment of the swamp, the fields and canals, and one nearby settlement, Kokeal, are described. The evidence indicates that the large number of well-defined ground patterns reported in other areas in the central Maya lowlands are probably vestiges of Maya wetland cultivation. ASJC Scopus subject areas
Various interfacial phenomena in steelmaking processes affect the quality of steels, and the following subjects related to the interfacial phenomena are still investigated extensively nowadays:. (1)Interfacial convection in welding processes(2)Engulfing small droplets of molten slag into liquid steel(3)Erosion or dissolution loss of refractories(4)Separation of metallic droplets from slag(5)Engulfing nonmetallic inclusions into solidified interface(6)Generation of gas bubbles in liquid steel(7)Nucleation during solidification(8)Slag foamingIn this chapter, some examples of the investigation on the above subjects are explained by referring to the relationship with interfacial properties. \|Title of host publication\|\|Treatise on Process Metallurgy\| \|Number of pages\|\|21\| \|Publication status\|\|Published - 2013 Nov\| - Interfacial convection - Slag foaming ASJC Scopus subject areas - Materials Science(all)
Understanding the Difference Between Periodontitis and Gingivitis Posted on 2/8/2021 by Pine Belt Periodontics \|Gum disease occurs in stages, from gingivitis to moderate gum disease to advanced periodontitis. Gingivitis and periodontitis have different symptoms as well as different treatments. Today's blog will help you understand the difference between these two phases of gum disease. What is Gingivitis? When you do not brush and floss your teeth properly, bacteria and food debris accumulate and form a sticky film known as plaque. If plaque is not cleaned off, it hardens into tartar. Unlike plaque, tartar cannot be removed with normal brushing and flossing, so it builds up on the surfaces of teeth, between teeth, and along the gum line. Bacteria, plaque, and tartar irritate your gum tissue and cause inflammation, resulting in gingivitis, the earliest phase of gum disease. Gingivitis is characterized by red, swollen, and tender gums that may bleed when you brush your teeth. You might also have bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth. When gingivitis is caught early enough, it can often be reversed before it has the chance to develop into periodontitis. Gingivitis is treated by professionally cleaning your teeth to remove all the plaque and tartar buildup, as well as implementing a strict oral hygiene routine for you to follow at home. We might sometimes prescribe a special mouthwash or antibiotics as well. What is Periodontitis? If gingivitis is not caught and treated early enough, though, it will advance into a stage of gum disease called periodontitis. Periodontitis cannot be reversed since by this stage it has already impacted your teeth and bones along with your gum tissue. Periodontitis causes your gums to pull away from your teeth, creating “gum pockets” that trap food debris and bacteria and accelerate tooth decay. Gum recession also weakens your teeth and the bones around them, resulting in loose teeth that can eventually fall out. In fact, periodontitis is the top cause of tooth loss among adults. In addition to visually receding gums and loose teeth, advanced periodontal disease can also result in oral abcesses and sensitive teeth. Periodontitis is usually treated with root canal procedures, scaling and root planing, gum pocket reduction, tissue graft surgery, and antibiotics. Since tooth loss is common with advanced periodontitis, treatment would also involve restoring missing teeth using dental implants, bridges, crowns, or dentures. Call our office today if you have questions about gum disease.
You wake up in the morning and turn on the TV. You turn it to the local news and they have a story alert that is alarming to you. They are discussing in their news report the tragic death of someone due to the H1N1 virus or otherwise known as Swine Flu. They are reporting that the contagion has sky rocketed in your area and that people must be careful. So for the concern of your children and yourself, you go to Google to look up the symptoms that will let you know if you caught it. You skip a trusted web site such as webmd, and you visit a web site that claims to have a cure for the virus. Beware Of Trojans It looks official and everything seems to be fine, meanwhile now that they have you on their site, they are loading a Trojan in the background. After it has finished uploading to your computer it will then start to steal your data and send it to a server. This is how quickly you can become a victim to a cyber attack due to the popular news cycle that is going around. The bad guys love to exploit the latest big story in the news. This lets them know that they are guaranteed a lot of hits from whatever attack they have placed in the wild. People tend to be less security conscious when it is a new news story. I can only assume that they feel that a bad guy would not have the time create an attack that would be able to take advantage of this new and developing story. This is not true at all. The Hacker’s Toolkit Most hackers have a toolkit that they use when they are creating an exploit. This allows them to be able to create a new delivery system for an old exploit very quickly. It is then a numbers game to see how many people they can get to click on their phony item. Once you click on the item then your computer can become exposed to whatever malicious malware they have installed on it. Luckily for you, to be able to pull an attack on the current news cycle very quickly they must use an attack that is of an older variety. An updated antivirus program will be able to counteract an older attack and keep your computer safe. You will have to be careful when a news story breaks in where you seek out the latest information. The bad guys love to exploit the news cycle and will quickly create a package for delivery that will try to do this. If you are careful in what you click on and keep your anti virus updated, you should be safe from such attacks.
Analytical Techniques in Electromagnetics is designed for researchers, scientists, and engineers seeking analytical solutions to electromagnetic (EM) problems. The techniques presented provide exact solutions that can be used to validate the accuracy of approximate solutions, offer better insight into actual physical processes, and can be utilized in finding precise quantities of interest over a wide range of parameter values. Beginning with a review of basic EMs, the text: Describes the use of the separation of variables technique in Laplace, heat, and wave equations, covering rectangular, cylindrical, and spherical coordinate systems Explains the series expansion method, providing the solution of Poisson's equation in a cube and in a cylinder, and scattering by cylinders and spheres, as examples Addresses the conformal transformation technique, offering a visual display of conformal mapping and a brief introduction to the Schwarz-Christoffel transformation Employs worked-out problems to demonstrate various applications of Fourier sine and cosine, two-sided Fourier, Laplace, Hankel, and Mellin transform techniques Discusses perturbation techniques, supplying examples of perturbed results degenerating to their unperturbed versions as the perturbation parameters tend to zero Analytical Techniques in Electromagnetics maintains a balanced view of techniques for solving EM problems, refusing to overemphasize the importance of analytical methods at the expense of numerical techniques. Carefully selected topics give readers an appreciation of the kinds of EM problems that can be solved exactly. All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes - Physics and Astronomy(all)
[jump] That is, until Reuters’ review of public lead contamination data prompted several Bay Area media outlets to shine a light on the Fruitvale’s lead problem. But actually, the dangerous levels of lead pollution in the Fruitvale and other areas of Alameda County isn’t new information. Federal, state, county, and city environmental officials have known about the Fruitvale’s lead contamination for years. In fact, the key figure cited in Reuters’ report is from a 2012 California Department of Public Health Study: Blood samples of 502 children under age six who live in the Fruitvale showed dangerously elevated levels of lead. About 7.57 percent of these kids had blood lead levels exceeding 4.5 micrograms per deciliter. Translation: Fruitvale kids are being poisoned, and the lead found in their blood exceeds levels found in Flint. And unlike Flint, the source of lead in the Fruitvale isn’t drinking water. The East Bay Municipal Utility District routinely tests the neighborhood’s water and says it’s safe to drink. According to an EBMUD press statement issued today, extensive testing shows that Oakland’s water meets or surpasses all federal and state drinking water requirements, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Lead and Copper Rule. The District also has an active corrosion control program to prevent corrosion in water pipes, including the pipes installed in apartment buildings and homes. “The water in the Fruitvale is the same that goes to the whole city,” said Noel Gallo, Oakland’s city councilmember who represents the Fruitvale. Gallo said his office and EBMUD have been contacted over the past couple days by residents worried their water has lead in it due to vague media reports based on the Reuters article. But in fact, Fruitvale’s contamination is arguably in a more dangerous and difficult place to clean up. It’s spread around in the buildings and soil, and it gets kicked up in the air from the wind and traffic. Lead is all over Oakland, and it’s especially concentrated in the Fruitvale where old rental properties constantly shed the toxic metal into the environment. “For the most part, the lead cases we’re running across, it’s usually a case of deteriorated paint,” said Larry Brooks, the director of operations for Alameda County’s Healthy Homes Department, a county agency that is on the forefront of tracking lead contamination and funding cleanup efforts. According to Brooks, Oakland has an enormous number of buildings that were constructed before 1978, the year that lead was banned as an ingredient in residential paint products. As a result, many of the city’s homes and apartments are coated with it. “We’re finding it often as a result of deteriorated paint from the exterior, rain rinses it into the soil and contaminates it,” he said. In one high-profile case from 2014, a child living in a 55-unit apartment complex on 36th Avenue in the Fruitvale was poisoned by lead. Over the past decade, Oakland building inspectors have been called to the property to check on numerous complaints including “chipping paint,” “crumbling” ceilings, and mold that was “making children sick,” according to city records. City inspectors verified the building’s various code violations, and they reported the lead problem to Alameda County health officials. According to 2014 county records, there were at least 20 households in the apartment building with children and babies, the majority of them very-low income and largely Spanish-speaking families. Children play in the dirt around the apartment building, and some of the families grow corn, squash, beans, and other vegetables for personal consumption in garden plots adjacent to the exterior walls. The building was constructed in 1959, and much of the paint used on its exterior was lead-based. Brooks said his department has been working with the property owner to fix the problem, but he added that there are numerous other buildings in Oakland that have the same issues, and they’re often not reported to health officials. Many tenants will avoid making a complaint to their landlord about flaking paint, or signs of paint in the soil around buildings, added Brooks. “They may not realize the danger the they’re putting their children in. They may be fearful a landlord will get mad at them for nitpicking,” he said, adding that it’s important for cities to proactively inspect properties for lead in order to take the burden off renters. Oakland launched a proactive rental inspection pilot program in October of 2015 called the Safe Housing Inspection Program, or SHIP, but it’s unclear how many properties have been inspected, and whether the program is identifying lead contamination issues. Mayor Libby Schaaf and City Administrator Sabrina Landreth did not respond to a request from the Express for documents related to the city’s SHIP pilot program. One other big problem regarding Oakland’s lead contamination problem is the lack of funds to clean it up. Currently Alameda County distributes grants to rental property owners so they can hire certified contractors to strip away lead paint. But the source of funding is the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development. Some fear the incoming Trump administration could cut funds for critical programs like these. “Government’s priority should be to protect children,” said Gallo. “There’s no excuse for any possible withdrawal of support to solve these issues.”
19 Things Your Dog Is Trying to Tell You Is your pup standing on its hind legs? Here's what it's saying. The common stereotype about cats and dogs is that dogs are kinder than cats but cats are smarter than dogs. Maybe it's because dogs are so sweet. Maybe it's because of their big, goofy grins. Or maybe its because cats are less likely to eat broken glass and think that's it's absolutely delicious. Whatever it is, recent research suggests that we've been underestimating dogs. A 2017 study found that dogs actually possess way more brain neurons than cats, 570 million versus only 250 million to be exact (humans have 16 billion, for comparison). While what defines a living being as "smart" is a matter of debate even among humans, the study's researchers believe that the number of neurons animals have in their cerebral cortex determines the "the richness of their internal mental state and their ability to predict what is about to happen in their environment based on past experience," which means that "dogs have the biological capability of doing much more complex and flexible things with their lives than cats can." Dogs also have slightly larger brains than cats have. (Though that doesn't actually mean anything. Bears, for example, have brains that are ten times larger than a cat's, but they possess roughly the same amount of neurons.) Previous studies have also found that dog's possess a "theory of the mind"—the ability to understand that others have beliefs, desires, intentions, and perspectives that are different from one's own—by engaging in deception. I was once eating a pizza when my dog barked at the door, and when I got up to check, I found that, puzzlingly, there was no one there. In that time, he had managed to eat most of my pizza, and that was all the proof that I needed to know he was a secret genius. Other research has found that dogs are incredibly emotionally intelligent, and possess the same social intelligence as toddlers. This is proven by their ability to engage in "cooperative communication," aka communicating using physical gestures in the absence of verbal ones. Now, researchers at the University of Salford, in Manchester, England, have managed to identify 47 gestures that dogs use to communicate and translate what 19 of them mean. The study, which was recently published in the science journal Animal Cognition, found that many of the gestures mean "scratch me" and not "feed me," as many believe. So read on to find out what your dog is trying to tell you. And for more on dogs, check out these 50 Corgi Facts That Will Make You Want a Corgi! They Use Their Snouts to Move Your Hand Onto Their Bodies "Feed me." For more on the science of "dog-speak," check out Why It's Totally OK to Talk to Your Dog Like a Baby. Rolling Over In Front of You This is a call for belly rubs, obviously. Dogs are notoriously affectionate, as evidenced by this labrador retriever that adopted nine ducklings. Holding One Paw In The Air While Sitting Surprisingly, this is a request to be fed. Pressing Their Noses Up Against Your or Another Object Head scratches now please! Turning Their Heads From Side to Side Looking for food, please. Perhaps this is one of the Secrets You're Dog Walker Is Not Telling You. Please return the favor and give scratches immediately. Standing On Their Hind Legs This is a request for food. To learn more about pet nutrition, read our feature on the Former Model Who Wants to Save Your Dog's Life. Lifting a Paw And Placing It On You "Wouldn't cuddles be so good right now?" Using Its Mouth to Throw a Toy Forward You might think this is a request for fetch, but according to the scientists it's actually them asking to be fed. Gently Biting Your Arm "Perhaps the human has forgotten that arms can be uses for head scratches. I will remind him." Shuffling Along the Ground While Rolling Over It's time to rub the belly. If you still aren't convinced dogs are every bit as intelligent as humans, check out this photo of a dog politely waiting outside a cafe that doesn't allow pets. Lifting Their Back Leg While Lying On Their Side You might think they're preparing for snoozing, but they are actually asking for the love. If you don't have a dog already, you should read about the 15 Amazing Benefits of Adopting a Pet. Rubbing Their Heads Against You While Leaning On You This is a pretty desperate call for affection. Briefly Touching You With One Paw It is time to play. Want to know if your favorite breed is influenced by location? Then check out The Most Popular Dog Breed in Every State. Lifting Both Paws Off of the Ground And Placing Them On a Human or Object "I would like to go outside now." Diving Headfirst Under a Person or Object Playtime has begun whether you're joining or not. Jumping Up and Down In The Same Place "Really, really gotta go now!" Reaching a Paw Towards An Object "Please to play now." Wiggling Their Bodies Underneath a Person or Object "Seriously, you can stare at the glowing rectangle later. Playtime is now." To discover more amazing secrets about living your best life, click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter!
NHS Lincolnshire are urging the vulnerable to take advantage of the free flu jab available at most Lincoln GPs. In particular, the over 65s, and any person who suffers from diabetes, multiple sclerosis, serious kidney or liver disease, asthma, strokes, and TIA. The vaccine protects from various forms of influenza, including Swine Flu (H1N1). Influenza affects around 15 million people in the UK per year, and is rife in winter. Recent research from Lincoln doctors also shows that getting the jab could significantly reduce the risk of a heart attack too. The flu vaccination campaign will be launched this month, and NHS Lincolnshire hopes to vaccinate 72-75% of those “at risk” or elderly. The chances of catching flu can be kept to a minimum by keeping active, using tissues when you sneeze or cough, and washing your hands. Anyone with flu should follow the NHS’s current campaign Catch it, Bin it, Kill it: catch sneezes in a tissue, throw the tissue away, and then wash hands.
Egypt National Action Plan 2011-2013 Sep 20 2011 Download right click "save as" Human trafficking represents a grave violation of human rights and human dignity. Many describe it as modern-day slavery. Every year millions of persons mainly women and children are trafficked all over the world for the purpose of exploitation. Human trafficking affects Egypt as any other global problem. Egypt’s location, at a juncture between the continents of Africa and Asia and between the Mediterranean and Red Seas, places Egypt as a transit country for human trafficking.
That picture above is real! It’s a Hubble Space Telescope image of a cluster of galaxies with the poetic name of SDSS J1038+4849 (called that because it was first seen in the Sloan Digital Sky Survey, and the numbers are its coordinates, like latitude and longitude, on the sky). What you’re seeing is a peculiar effect of relativity called “gravitational lensing.” You know that gravity can bend the path of an object traveling in space; an orbit is just a path bent so much one object goes around another. Gravity does this by bending space itself, warping it. A moving object follows that bend like a bobsled sliding along the twists and turns of its track. Any object … including light. And that’s what you’re seeing. J1038 is a group of galaxies about 4.5 billion light-years away, and there are trillions of stars in the cluster. That’s a lot of mass, and a lot of gravity. Beyond it, at a distance of about 7.5 billion light years, lie more galaxies. The light from those galaxies passes by J1038 on its way to Earth, and travels through the region of space distorted by the galaxies’ gravity. This bends the light, acting like a giant lens made of gravity (hence the term gravitational lens, of course). There are lots of ways the light can bend. The simplest is in an arc shape, smearing out the shapes of the more distant galaxies. In cases where the lensing and lensed galaxies line up just right, you can get a ring of light around the lensing galaxy! Lensing can also create multiple copies of a background galaxy (this is called an Einstein Cross) and even make the more distant galaxy appear much brighter. In J1038, the eyes are two elliptical galaxies in the lensing cluster, and the nose is a smaller galaxy (it may or may not be part of the lensing cluster). The smile and the sides of the head are actually the much more distant galaxies, distorted into arcs. Lensing is more than just a quirk; it’s actually a powerful tool used by astronomers. Many background galaxies are too faint to study on their own, but lensing can make them bright enough to study. It also tells us about the mass of the galaxies doing the lensing, and even the distribution of invisible dark matter in the cluster—normally it can’t be detected easily, but dark matter has mass and therefore gravity, and it contributes to the lensing. Lensing is pretty handy, and it’s a circumstance that makes a lot of astronomers happy. I’m not one to push a metaphor too much, but sometimes it does feel like the Universe is smiling on us.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved a new use for technetium 99m tilmanocept (Lymphoseek Injection), a radioactive diagnostic imaging agent used to help doctors determine the extent to which squamous cell carcinoma has spread in the body’s head and neck region. In 2013, tilmanocept was approved to help identify lymph nodes closest to a primary tumor in patients with breast cancer or melanoma. With the recent approval, the agent can now be used to guide sentinel lymph node biopsy in patients with cancer of the head and neck. This new indication will allow for the option of more limited lymph node surgery in patients with sentinel nodes negative for cancer. “For some patients with head and neck cancer, removal and pathological examination of lymph nodes draining a primary tumor is an important diagnostic evaluation,” said Libero Marzella, MD, PhD, Director of the Division of Medical Imaging Products in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. “To use [tilmanocept], doctors inject the drug into the tumor area and later, using a handheld radiation detector, find the sentinel lymph nodes that have taken up [tilmanocept]’s radioactivity.” Clinical Trial Results For this new indication, tilmanocept’s safety and effectiveness were established in a clinical trial of 85 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the lip, oral cavity, and skin. All patients were injected with tilmanocept. Surgeons subsequently removed suspected lymph nodes—those identified by the imaging agent and those based upon tumor location and surgical practice—for pathologic examination. Results showed that tilmanocept–guided sentinel lymph node biopsy accurately determined if the cancer had spread through the lymphatic system. The most common side effect identified in the clinical trial was pain or irritation at the injection site. ■
Falls among the elderly are a huge problem. Our trauma service typically has 6-12 elders who have sustained significant injuries on it at any given time. About a third of people living at home over the age of 65 fall in a given year. At 80 years and up, half fall every year. Because of this, falls are the leading cause of ED visits due to an injury for those over 65. What exactly are the societal consequences of all these falls? A yet to be published study from the Netherlands looked at injuries, costs and quality of life after falls in the elderly. The top 5 most common injuries included simple wounds, wrist and hip fractures, and brain injuries. Although hip fracture typically was #5 in the 65-74 age groups, it was uniformly #1 in the 85+ group. Patterns were similar in both men and women. Interestingly, hip fractures were by far the most expensive, making up 43% of the cost of all injuries (total €200M). The next closest injuries by total cost, superficial injuries and femur fracture, made up only 7% of the total each! As you can imagine, quality of life suffered after falls as well. A utility score based on the EQ-5D, a validated quality of life score, was lower in fall victims. Even after 9 months, this score did not return to baseline. About 70% of elders who were admitted after their falls described mobility problems and 64% had problems with their usual activities. Over a quarter expressed problems with anxiety or depression. Bottom line: An array of falls prevention programs are available. They need to be more aggressively implemented to reduce costs and improve the quality of life of our elders. Reference: Social consequences of falls in the older population: injuries, healthcare costs, adn long-term reduced quality of life. J Trauma (in press), 2011.
Certain foods high in saturated fat can increase the likelihood of developing Alzheimer's disease, says a new study. "Before now, there has been no dietary driven approach to the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease," said John Mamo, professor of metabolic fitness at Curtin University. "Our study found that some dietary fats damaged the blood-brain-barrier, an important membrane that regulates what is normally allowed in and out of the brain like important nutrients." Alzheimer's was characterised by the presence of a protein in the brain called amyloid which caused inflammation and cell death, said Mamo. "Stopping amyloid deposits from forming is the key to slowing or preventing Alzheimer's disease," he said. Mamo's Curtin research team found that saturated fats like those found in poor quality processed meats caused an increase in amyloid delivery from the blood to the brain resulting in a "brain overload" of amyloid, according to Curtin release. The study is slated for publication by the British Journal of Nutrition.
This section describes in detail the procedures and techniques of producing marine snail larvae from the broodstock caught from the wild or the hatchery produced individuals. The procedures and techniques include the natural food production (diatom culture), gamete procurement, larval incubation and settlement, juvenile rearing and basic calculations. 3.1.1 Green Snail In Tonga, the broodstock introduced from Vanuatu and Japan are kept in rearing tanks and used for spawning when required. In fact, some of the broodstock were the first offspring produced in the hatchery. The size at sexual maturity for the reared broodstock is much lower ranging from 70mm to 96mm SH. The broodstock are reared in a plastic cage with 2.5 cm mesh made to fit inside a concrete raceway tank (3-ton capacity) with running sea water and a strong aeration system for circulating water and supplying oxygen. The cage bottom is elevated 15 cm from the raceway tank bottom to prevent water quality deterioration in the cage. The cage actually keeps the snails away from their waste and silt on the bottom of the tank as seen in Plate 2. Plate 2. PVC pipes were arranged at the bottom of the raceway tank before the mesh cage was placed on the top. Red algae, Gracilaria sp. is used as the main feed and should be given in sufficient amounts. (Plate 3). Other red algae such as Eucheuma sp. and Hypnea sp. (Plate 4) are used as sub-feed for the broodstock. About 100 broodstock are placed together in one At raceway tank, with adult shell height reaching 120 mm or more and smaller adults with shell height of about 70 mm. Plate 3. Sufficient feed is placed in the tank for the broodstock. About 100 broodstock are kept in one of these raceway tanks. Plate 4. Main red algae used for feeding green snails From left to right, Eucheuma sp., Gracilaria sp., and Hypnea sp,. The broodstock collected from the wild on the hatchery produced individuals is reared with giant clam (Tridacna spp.) seed in the concrete tank or in the green snail intermediate tank as seen in Plate 5. A sufficient amount of microscopic attached diatoms should be produced systematically according to the plan of trochus seed production, as in the case of seed production of other gastropods. Plate 5. The polyculture of trochus and giant clams. The broodstock (Plate 6) were reared in a plastic cage with 2.5 cm mesh made to fit inside a concrete raceway tank (3 ton capacity) with running sea water and a strong aeration system for circulating water and supplying oxygen. The cage bottom was elevated 15cm from the raceway tank bottom water quality deterioration in the cage. Sufficient amounts of red algae, Gracilaria spp. and Gelidum spp. are used as the main feed which is similar to that used for green snail broodstock. Other brown algae such as Sargassum spp., (still on trial) was used as sub-feed for the broodstock. The animals were exposed in this method for 2–3 hours. If spawning does not occur, the solution is decanted and the container thoroughly rinsed and replaced with warm seawater. If spawning does occur, proceed to Section 3.3.3, “Releasing and collection of gamete”. 18.104.22.168 Gonadal induction method The final induction method is application of gonad solution. If spawning is not achieved by any of the other methods, spawned solution from either males or females is used to induce female broodstock to spawn (Capinpin, 1995, and also Singhagraiwan and Doi, 1992). Induced spawning of tropical species H. asinina can be achieved by this method. The gonad of the male is removed, crushed and sieved into a beaker of water. The solution is poured into the broodstock water. 3.3.3 Releasing and Collecting Gametes NOTE: The methods in this sections are applicable to green snail, trochus, and abalone unless mentioned otherwise. During the spawning induction trials, male spawners were the first to release their gametes after about 1 to 2 hours in the UV irradiation method shown in Plate 14. Female spawners released their eggs around 15 minutes or more after the first male released its sperm. The first male that releases its sperm was left in the spawning tank to induce the female spawners. If a male releases strong or excessive sperms then it must be removed immediately to a separate male-only tank, to avoid the possibility of polyspermy of the eggs. Following the release of their gametes, the spawners are immediately placed in their appropriate tanks, that is, male spawners in the male-only tank (Plate 16) and female into the female-only tank (Platel7). Some hatcheries recommend female spawners that have released their eggs be placed individually in a tank of their own. The spawners must be handled with great care at this stage, because reckless or excessive handling can make the spawners stop releasing their gametes. Plate 16. Male spawners are removed from the main spawning tank Plate 17. Female spawners are placed in a separate tank. The time and temperature is recorded when the spawners are placed in the UV irradiate method. During the release of gametes the time for the first male and female spawners is recorded, together with their shell heights. The number of eggs released by female spawners can be calculated from the female-only tank. Yamaguchi estimated the number of green snail eggs released by a female spawner weighing 2 kg to be around 7 million (Yamaguchi, 1995). It is thought that the number of eggs released by a female spawner depends on its size and maturity. When spawners were finished releasing their gametes, they were removed from the female-only tank, had their shell height measured, and were placed back into the rearing tanks. The water volume of the female-only tank containing eggs was raised to 20 L and about 200–250 ml of sperm suspension was gently stirred into the eggs in the tank as shown in Plate 18. The egg and sperm suspension was left for 15–30 minutes for fertilization to take place. The time the fertilization process was initiated was recorded. It is not recommended to use anti-biotics for washing eggs as it may not only give influence to environment but also cause creation of possible resistant bacteria. It is recommended that all equipment and tools to be used for spawning and egg collection be washed by UV irradiated-filtered seawater. After about 15 to 30 minutes, the fertilised eggs are washed to remove of excess sperm. There were two methods used: The fertilised eggs were transferred from the fertilization tank into a 7lμm mesh net. Filtered seawater (lμm) was poured into the net to rinse excess sperm (Plate 19). This process was repeated for 5 to 10 times. After washing, fertilised eggs left in the net are transferred gently into a plastic tank containing 20 L filtered seawater. The eggs were allowed to settle. After the eggs settled, the fertilised eggs were decanted three to remove defective or unfertilised eggs as well as any remaining excess sperms (Plate 20). Good quality eggs are demersal and settle to the bottom of the tank, while defective/poor quality eggs float to the surface. It is essential to quantify and qualify the eggs produced to determine approximately the fertilization rate, density and diameter of the eggs produced, and the reaction rate and shell height of the spawners using Vernier calipers. 3.6.1 Total egg density (TED) To determine the total egg density, the 20-L tank containing fertilised eggs was gently stirred with a 500-ml beaker in order to disperse the eggs evenly throughout the tank. Ten 1-ml samples were pipetted into a 24-well tissue culture plate (Plate 21) and the number of eggs were counted using a hand-held tally counter under the microscope as seen in Plate 22. \|Plae 21.\|\|Plate 22.\| TED = N/10 × 20,000 ml Where: N = total number of eggs counted 10 = number of 1 ml samples 20,000 ml = volume of the fertilised eggs kept 3.6.2 Egg diameter (ED) A sample of the fertilized eggs was placed in a watch glass and displayed on the Profile projector using 50X magnification. The diameter of the fertilized egg, which did not undergo mitosis, was measured using a ruler. It is recommended to measure at least ten eggs (Plate 23). ED = (N / 10 / 50) × 1,000 Where: N = total egg diameter values Measured 10 = number of eggs measured 50 = magnification used 1,000 = value to convert into a micron unit 3.6.3 Fertilization rate (FR) The total number of the fertilised eggs undergoing mitosis (four cells to eight cells) stage is counted from the display shown by the Profile projector. FR = n / N × 100 Where: n = actual number of fertilized eggs N = total number of eggs counted 100 = value to convert percentage (%) 3.6.4 Reaction rate (RR) Reaction rate is determined by noting down the total number of broodstock induced to spawn and the number of individuals that spawned. RR = ns / NB × 100 Where: ns = number of individuals that spawn NB = total number of broodstock induced 100 = value to convert percentage (%) After computing all the basic calculations and measurements, the fertilized eggs were transferred from the 20-L tank into the Artemia incubation tank, or the more practical “Saia's” incubation tank. The Artemia tank is a 100-L or 120-L polycarbonate tank (shown in Plate 24) with a 71μm-mesh screen set above the bottom of the tank. The fertilised eggs that have developed to the trocophore stage (stage before hatching) settle at the bottom of the tank. Filtered seawater (1μm) with an adjusted inflow rate of approximately 0.3 L/min. was pumped into the center of the incubation tank. The seawater flows downward through the 71μm mesh screen and exits from the standpipe. Plate 24 The artermia tank The “Saia's” incubation tank is a modified form of a larva] incubation tank used in Kagoshima Prefecture Fish Farming Center, Japan (Plate 25). A l00μm mesh net was sewn in a bag shape to fit a 500-L tank and the rim was coated with silicon to seal off any minute holes. It was then fitted into the 500-L tank and filtered seawater (lμm) was added into the tank. A 12 mm diameter rubber hose was fixed on the corner of the mesh net bottom. The temperature of the seawater of the two tanks was recorded. No aeration was supplied during the incubation period. Plate 25. Saia's incubation tank Between 10 and 15 hours later, the trocophores hatched into veligers (the swimming stage). Warm water temperature reduces the hatching time to about 10 hours, and cooler seawater temperature delays the hatching time to about 15 hours. Green veligers can be observed swimming in a “tornado” formation at the surface of the water. A strong presence of veligers swimming in this manner indicates good quality larvae. Poor quality (defective and weak) veligers, as well as unfertilised and dead eggs, remained on the bottom of the tank or net. These should be siphoned out 2 to 3 hours after fertilization to reduce the possibility of infection to the rest of the veligers. Growth stages were observed daily under the microscope including the water temperature. After 3 to 4 days, the veligers had developed into the creeping stage, the pediveliger stage. The swimming larvae settled to the bottom of the tank and were ready to be transferred into the settlement tank, where they started feeding. At the Sopu Mariculture Center (SMC), the settlement tanks had been prepared two weeks prior to the spawning induction. The creeping larvae were dispersed evenly throughout the settlement tank and were covered with 80% sunshade made up of black sack material to reduce light intensity. The cover could be removed during cloudy or overcast days. Diatoms were used as the first feed for the creepers. Gentle aeration was used with no running seawater added for the pediveligers (Plate 26). After about two to three days when the pediveligers had settled down, the aeration was increased and filtered seawater (lμm) was pumped into the settlement tank with an adjusted water inflow rate of 5 L/min. The state-of-the-art larval settlement tank at SMC is described in Appendix 2. Two months later, the mesh size of the filter bag was changed from a 1 to a 5 or 10μm mesh size. Two months after that, filter bag was changed again to a 25μm-mesh size. The bottom of the settlement tank was cleaned, initially once a month and then more frequently as the juveniles increased in size and feeding capacity. The bottom was siphoned into a 500μm-mesh screen and if any juvenile was siphoned out, it was replaced into the juvenile settlement tank as shown in Plate 27. 3.9.1 Green Snail After 3 to 4 months in the settlement tank, the green snails with a diameter of 2.5 mm or more were collected and transferred to an enclosed cage with a lid and a mesh screen of 1 mm. These snails were fed with Gracilaria sp. (main feed), and Hypnea sp. (sub feed). The enclosed cage was placed in the raceway tank in Phase III. Filtered water was no longer required, but strong aeration was vital. This was considered to be the first phase of juvenile rearing (Plate 28). When the shell diameter of the green snails reached 7 mm or more, they were transferred into the raceway tank fitted with a mesh screen of 4 mm (Plate 29). The feed given to the juveniles was Gracilaria sp. as the main feed, Hypnea sp. and Eucheuma sp. as the sub-feed. The cages are cleaned daily as part of the routine work. The green snails with a shell diameter of 15 mm or more were transferred from Phase II to Phase III (Plate 30). Fast-growing green snails from Phase II were transferred immediately to Phase III during the daily routine work (Plate 31). The shell height, width and weight of the green snails should be measured monthly. \|Plate 30. Green snails kept in Phase III with trochus, Trochus niloticus, and sufficient feed of Gracilaria sp. and Eucheuma sp.\|\|Plate 31. Daily routine work involving cleaning the cages and feeding green snails in Phase III of the intermediate culture.\| Normally the juvenile rearing of T. niloticus is either a poly culture, (mix with giant clam juveniles and green snail juveniles), or a monoculture, where the juveniles are place in a tank with micro-algae. Similar juvenile rearing techniques used with the green snail are used with abalone. After six months in the settlement tank, the abalone with a length of 6 to 8 mm or more were collected and transferred to an enclosed cage with a lid and a mesh screen of 1 mm. These abalones were fed with Gracilaria sp. as the main feed, and Gelidium sp. as the sub-feed. The enclosed cage was placed in the raceway tank in Phase III. Filtered water was no longer required but strong aeration was vital. This was regarded as the first phase of juvenile rearing. When the shell length of the abalone reached 20 mm or more, they were transferred to the raceway tank fitted with a 4 mm mesh screen. The feed for the juveniles was Gracilaria sp. as the main feed and Gelidium sp. as the sub-feed. The cages were cleaned daily as part of the routine work. The abalone with shell lengths of 30 to 40 mm or more were transferred from Phase II to Phase III. Fast-growing abalone from Phase II were transferred immediately to Phase III during the daily routine work. The shell length of the abalone is measured monthly. Abalone of this size are released into the wild for stock enhancement or kept as broodstock.
Did you know a third of the Bible is written in poetry? Explore the unique characteristics of biblical poetry and how to read it well. Jon: So we’ve been learning how to read biblical narrative and showing how the Bible is one unified story. But thirty percent of the Bible is made up of ancient poetry. And I don’t know about you, but I don’t read a lot of stories where one out of three pages is some kind of poem. Tim: Yet poetry is everywhere in the Bible. Some biblical books are entirely poetry. Most of the Hebrew prophets wrote masterful poems, and the majority of God’s speech in the Bible is represented as poetry. It’s also very common in biblical narrative for the story to pause while a character breaks out in poetic song. Like in the Exodus story there’s a narrative about Moses leading the Israelites through the waters of the sea, and that’s followed by a beautiful poem about the very same thing. Jon: Why a story and a poem? Wouldn’t one version suffice? Tim: Well, poetry has a different purpose than stories. Instead of describing the difference, let’s just experience it. Tim: So one part of the story goes like this. Jon: “The waters were divided, and the Israelites went through on dry land, with a wall of water on their right and on their left.”1 Tim: That seems pretty clear. Tim: Now the poem telling the same event... Jon: O Lord, by the blast of your nostrils the waters piled up. Surging waters stood like a wall; deep waters congealed in the heart of the sea.2 Woah! A wall of surging water like jello! And divine nostrils? This is intense. Tim: Yeah. The poem ignites your imagination through the experience of verbal art. And biblical poets did this with a specific set of tools, and that’s what we’re going to look at: the art of biblical poetry. Tim: The basic unit of any poem is the line, and then many lines are designed together to make a poem. Jon: Okay. I’m used to this kind of poem. There’s a meter, cadence––bum-bum-bum-BUM, bum-bum-bum-BUM––and there’s rhyme. But poems in the Bible don't work like this. Tim: Yeah. Biblical poems are what you could call free verse. They don’t use meter like some traditions of poetry do, and they don’t use rhyme in the same way either. Jon: So biblical poems have no order to them? Tim: No. They just have a different kind of order. Biblical poems are most basically structured by couplets, two short lines that are carefully worded and placed beside each other. The first line makes the basic statement, and then the second line develops it in some way. It can do this by completing the thought, or deepening it with different words or images, or by contrasting it in some way. So check out the opening of Psalm 51. You can see it in action. In the first couplet, the poet asks that God show grace and love, but how exactly? In the second line, he requests forgiveness for his failures. Jon: Okay. This couplet is finishing one complete thought. Tim: Right, and then the next couplet opens with washing as a metaphor. And then the second line offers a more vivid image, that of a priest in the temple purifying things so they can be in God’s presence. Jon: Okay, so taking an image and deepening it. Tim: Right, and then this third couplet opens with the poet’s awareness of his sin, deep inside. And that’s followed by a description of the sin as being “outside” of them. It’s like it’s in public, visible to themselves and other people. Jon: So this couplet takes an idea and contrasts it. Jon: So couplets, by nature, are a bit repetitive. Tim: But the repetitive language forces you to slow down and linger over the feeling and meaning of it all, looking at each idea from more than one angle. And then groups of couplets can come together around one key idea. It’s like a diamond with many facets, each line offering a different glimpse into the same core reality. Jon: So this poem is exploring what it’s like to be forgiven and offered a second chance. Tim: And that’s the kind of experience that can change a person. It’s worth savoring and pondering. Now, biblical poets also use repetition on a larger scale. In many poems you’ll find a key line that’s repeated multiple times. That’s called a refrain. Or they’ll open and close the poem with a similar couplet, that’s called an inclusio. Jon: Ah, so biblical poets love design. Tim: Oh yeah. These are works of verbal artistry. These poets use repetition to create all kinds of elaborate patterns that invite the reader to make connections between different parts of the whole poem that open up even deeper layers of meaning. Jon: Cool, so I’m feeling at home with ancient Hebrew poetry. Tim: But remember, poetry isn’t something you master and then move on. Biblical poems are a bottomless well. They’re packed with a surplus of meaning for those who are willing to slow down and ponder them. Jon: And they are trying to pull my mind in new directions and discover new ideas. Tim: Exactly. And there’s even one more tool biblical poets have to do that very thing, and that’s what we’ll look at in the next video.
Cutting Waste in the Cold Chain - Geraint Thomas, Laminar Medica Posted: 12/17/2010 12:00:00 AM EST \| 4 Geraint Thomas, Technical Director at Laminar Medica, explains the importance of considering how your temperature controlled packing system impacts on the environment, and suggests an approach for minimising both your waste and costs. The suppliers and users of temperature controlled packaging systems are under increasing pressure to reduce the environmental impact of Cold Chain shipping. The widespread introduction of formal corporate social responsibility policies, together with new customer expectations and more strict regulations, mean that developing a suitable packaging system is more challenging than ever. Before we even consider its environmental credentials, packaging has to fulfil a number of functions. Perhaps most importantly, it must ensure its contents are protected in storage and distribution, and delivered to the consumer or business end-user in good condition. This is particularly difficult when long distances and time-scales are involved, commonly subjecting the packaging to extreme temperatures and hazards such as vibration, moisture, heat, and light penetration. Furthermore, it must be robust and secure, but also compact and lightweight, in order to keep shipping costs down. To produce a Pharma Packaging system that both meets these criteria and has minimal impact on the environment, a careful balance must be achieved, using the right design and the right materials. In the retail and food industries, eco-packaging design has become big business. Innovative new packaging materials are increasingly available in these sectors, produced from more sustainable resources, such as crops, or materials that compost or biodegrade easily in a short time period. Additionally, there are many incentives to help reclaim and reduce packaging materials, such as loyalty points for using multi-use rather than disposable carrier bags. Some of these latest technologies are now finding their way into cold chain shipping, but it is vital that the specific requirements of an application are thoroughly understood before deciding on a solution. While it might seem at first necessary to reduce the amount of packaging used, it is important to note that under packaging is usually far worse for the environment than over-packaging. Over-packaging by 10% means that 10% of the resources needed to produce the packaging are wasted, and extra fuel will be needed to distribute it. However, under-packaging that results in the product being spoilt or damaged wastes 100% of the resources used to produce both the contents and its packaging, and all the fuel used to distribute it. Life cycle analysis There are a number of ways to approach developing an eco-packaging system. For instance, carbon foot-printing assesses the total amount of CO2 and other greenhouse gases emitted over the full life-cycle of the product. While this provides a measure of the potential impact a solution has on climate change, it is often incorrectly used as a proxy for total environmental impact. A carbon foot-print is just one part of the data that would be covered by a life cycle assessment, which measures the overall environmental impact of a system, and is therefore considerably more effective. An LCA (Life Cycle Assessment), takes into account the entire life cycle of a product, from the extraction and processing of raw materials, through manufacturing and distribution, to final use and disposal, or recycling. This allows us to better understand the connections between the consumption of resources, energy use, waste, and wider environmental challenges like climate change. Through LCA, we can learn how to reduce the environmental impact of a product and make better environmental choices. While most temperature controlled packaging suppliers do not have the expertise to conduct such studies internally, leading companies, such as Laminar Medica, are able to employ the services of an external consultancy to undertake an LCA of its packaging solutions. In addition to life cycle analysis and assessment, these specialists offer an array of services addressing environmental issues in packaging, including environmental policy and strategy development, technology solutions, and carbon foot printing. One of the most important elements of the life cycle analysis is looking at how much waste a system generates, and whether its component parts can be disposed of responsibly. The UK government’s “waste hierarchy” of “reduce, re-use, recover, dispose” provides a useful way of assessing the environmental impact of the materials used in a packaging system. Preventing waste at the source, or eliminating waste before it is created, is the most effective way to minimise a system’s impact on the environment. Many companies are concerned about the amount of packaging their products are transported in, and try to avoid goods that they consider to be ‘over-packaged’. Examples of over-packaging could be the use of standard sized boxes, which can lead to wasted space, or an over-engineered solution, which wastes valuable resources. Packaging can be optimised by reducing its weight or size. This can be achieved by selecting the most thermally efficient materials. For example, insulation materials such as vacuum insulation panels and Neopor EPS have much better thermal insulation properties than traditional foam materials, and can therefore be reduced in size for the same effect. Many of the latest refrigerant materials require no additional packaging materials other than an insulation layer and the refrigerant. Once again, this allows the size of a package to be reduced. In addition to requiring less materials and energy to manufacture, smaller systems offer many other benefits, including enabling more packages to be stored and shipped, reducing the energy needed for transportation, and cutting shipping costs. It is worth noting that optimising the loading and transportation of packages helps to reduce environmental impact in the same way. For instance, large fully loaded packages typically have less impact per unit of product shipped than smaller part-filled packages. Less energy is also required to manufacture and transport large packages for the volume of products they are capable of containing. If packaging materials can be efficiently reclaimed, it makes sense that they should be re-used. However, efficient recovery is often difficult in cold chain distribution. The companies shipping pharmaceuticals rarely have a return-to-base infrastructure in place, or the facilities to reprocess materials themselves. As a result, the cost, and indeed the environmental impact, of arranging return-to-base transport, cleaning components, and reprocessing can often eliminate re-use as a viable option, particularly for those organisations that operate internationally. Conversely, re-use can work well for wholesalers, distributors and companies that have delivery vehicles distributing products directly to the end recipient. In most cases, the packages can easily be reclaimed after delivery and returned to base on the return leg of the journey. If this is not possible, operators can off-set the environmental impact of the return transport by collating materials together in bulk, for example. By their nature, re-usable packages are typically manufactured from more robust materials, often incorporating plastic cases, metal skinned insulation panels, or rigid plastic refrigerant encapsulations. This generally makes the initial cost of developing a packaging solution higher, although with the right return-to-base system in place, this additional cost can be recouped reasonably quickly. Re-useable packaging components need to be both easy to clean and robust enough to withstand handling over many distribution cycles. In some cases, users have successfully re-used more traditional packaging components such as EPS (expanded polystyrene) cases and flexible cool-pack systems, by implementing rigorous inspection procedures. These include ensuring the integrity of insulation materials and closures, and checking that critical parameters such as cool-pack weight remain as originally specified, and are therefore unlikely to compromise the thermal performance of the package. Third in the waste hierarchy is the recovery of packaging material waste to provide the raw materials and/or energy to make new products. Recovery methods include recycling, composting, and energy recovery by incineration. Each of these is designed to reduce the demand for raw materials, and, as a result, minimise the environmental impact of packaging. Recovering materials uses less energy than producing goods from virgin material, and results in fewer emissions from processes including material extraction and transportation. Recycling also reduces the waste that goes to land-fill or incineration, cutting environmental damage and emissions still further. It is worth noting that many traditional cold chain packaging materials are suited to recycling. For example, cardboard and plastic films, provided the latter does not comprise a mix of plastics, are widely recyclable. Additionally, recycled EPS content can be moulded with raw material to make new, first generation EPS products, while pre-expanded beads can also be recycled into second generation products. For recovery to be carried out effectively, a mixed-media packaging solution must be easy to segregate. Material types should be clearly labelled, although it is important to remember that waste management labelling is not consistent around the globe and can vary between countries and markets. Most people understand and accept the mobius triangle, which indicates a recyclable material, but it is not always found on all types of materials. Perhaps the main reason why bio-plastics have yet to be commonly used in cold chain shipping is cost; they are generally considerably more expensive than conventional plastics due to the high cost of manufacturing them and the as yet limited demand for such materials. It is also worth considering the controversial issues surrounding their production, such as the use of land that would otherwise be used to grow food. Disposal, which essentially means sending waste materials to landfill, is the least desirable end for packaging. The impact of disposing of materials in this way is now widely known, and ranges from damage to infrastructures caused by heavy transport, to pollution of local soil and groundwater. Materials such as cardboard and bio-plastics are particularly unsuitable for landfill, as they promote the production of environmentally harmful gases such as methane. Perhaps surprisingly, EPS on the other hand has some advantages to landfill management. EPS is inert and non-toxic; as it does not degrade it does not leach any substances into ground water or produce methane. Indeed, EPS aerates soil, encouraging plant growth. While sending packaging materials to landfill is far from ideal, EPS can at least be disposed of with relatively little impact. Minimising the environmental impact of cold chain shipping is increasingly important to companies transporting temperature sensitive pharmaceuticals. Balancing the eco-credentials of a packaging system with its ability to protect its contents reliably and cost effectively can be difficult. By working with a specialist supplier of temperature controlled packaging, organisations can asses their needs accurately, taking into account the entire life cycle of the packaging and finding a solution that works on every level. The range of packaging solutions and materials now available is greater than ever, presenting many new and exciting opportunities, but it is important to think about how the materials you choose will be disposed of, and the impact this will have on the environment. The waste hierarchy provides a useful framework with which to do this. By specifying the most efficient packaging solution available, you can reduce your waste, improve the sustainability of your business, and ultimately lower your operating costs. Have Your Say Rate this feature and give us your feedback in the comments section below Stability Data in the Cold Chain Russia: Needs to Invest in Cold Chain Infrastructure for Biopharma to Grow Coming Soon - The First-Ever Online Cold Chain Event! Temperature Controlled Distribution Strategies for North Africa Cool Chain Excellence Awards 2011 Winners Cutting Waste in the Cold Chain - Geraint Thomas, Laminar Medica How to Develop a Compliant Cool Chain Quality System Biopharma Drives Cold Chain in Canada Promoting Quality and Temperature Controlled Distribution in South Africa Cold Chain Management in China * = required.
For our latest LONG READ, we are delighted to welcome Linda Gilroy, MP for Plymouth Sutton 1997-2010. Here Linda details Plymouth’s proud history of supporting women’s politics from suffrage to parliamentary representation in the C21st century. Plymouth people – including women using their vote for the first time – made history in 1919 when they played their part in electing Lady Nancy Astor as the first woman to take her seat in the Westminster parliament. Suffrage in Plymouth The city had always been active in campaigning for votes for women. A petition was sent from Plymouth in 1869 demanding that women should be able to vote. From then onwards, throughout the sixty-year history which led to the 1918 enfranchisement legislation, there was sustained support as Plymouth suffragists and suffragettes campaigned ever more insistently for votes for women. In 1871 leading suffragist Millicent Fawcett spoke at the first public women’s suffrage meeting in the town and two years later in November 1873 Plymouth held a grand meeting. The all-male council voted in support of the Women’s Suffrage Act presented to parliament that same year. In the decades that followed there were regular visits from national and international campaigners. As people lost patience with the peaceful campaign nationally, so too did Plymouth women. The WSPU, who were committed to “Deeds not Words”, had emerged in 1903 with their campaign of smashing shop windows, blowing up letter boxes and arson attacks on some MP’s houses. In late 1907 or early 1908, a Plymouth branch of the Union was established. Things escalated across the country. In March/April 1913 some eighty suffragette inspired incidents took place across the country. In Plymouth on 10th April a bid to blow up the iconic Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse was foiled when a homemade device was deactivated in the wind. A canister, with “Votes for Women” painted on the side, had been filled with explosive and a fuse attached to it. Suffragette leaflets were found scattered on the Hoe. Eight months later in 1913 Mrs Emmeline Pankhurst was travelling back to Britain from New York on board the steam ship Majestic. Plymouth was a main port of call for ships from the States in those days. Emmeline Pankhurst was arrested on board ship before she set foot in Plymouth. Emmeline had been there on a speaking tour, in breach of some bail conditions, set when she had been released from Holloway Prison under the Cat and Mouse Act so she could recover from the effects of her hunger striking. A crowd of over 5,000 people had gathered to welcome her back. Anticipating her arrest, some women, who were trained in ju-jitsu, were prepared to defend their leader with clubs smuggled under their skirts. Fearing a riot, the police set off from Bull Point, a part of the Devonport naval base west of the Port of Plymouth, to arrest Mrs Pankhurst on board ship. She was taken to Dartmouth and Exeter jails and thence back to Holloway prison. A few weeks later her frustrated supporters torched a timber yard in Devonport, causing £12,000 (£1million in today’s terms) in damage. There remains a debate about whether the efforts of the suffragettes were becoming counterproductive, making women look as if they were not responsible citizens worthy of the vote. In any event the outbreak of war in 1914 saw most of the suffragists and the suffragettes desist from campaigning, with many turning to support the war effort. Parliament (Qualification of Women) Act The end of the war brought with it strong pressure for universal suffrage for men over the age of 21 and those over 19 who had seen active service. The 1918 legislation which enacted this also made provision for votes for women, but broadly speaking only for those over thirty with a property qualification. This enfranchised about two in every five women. That year also saw the rather hastily enacted one sentence, 27-word Parliament (Qualification of Women) Act, which enabled women over 21 to stand in the 1918 general election. Parliament (Qualification of Women) Act 1918 image courtesy of Parliamentary Archives It was passed on November 21st and left precious little time for any women who wanted to stand to get organised for an election on 14th December. Emily Frost Phipps, born to a Devonport Dockyard coppersmith father and seamstress mother in 1865, at Southview Buildings, Stoke Damerel was one of them. When she left school, Emily taught infants in Plymouth. Over the years as she progressed in her career and eventually became a head teacher in Swansea, she became active in the NUWT campaigning for equal pay and conditions for women teachers. In the 1918 general election she stood in Chelsea with the backing of her union. She was not elected. None of the women who had campaigned for the vote, not even leading suffragette Christabel Pankhurst nor suffragist Millicent Fawcett, were elected. Only one of the 17 women who stood, Countess Constance Markiewicz, was elected in Dublin St Patrick’s along with 72 other Sinn Fein candidates. She was in prison for offences connected with ante conscription activities so could not take her seat. Indeed, in keeping with Sinn Fein representatives to this day, she did not do so when she was released. The election of Nancy Astor So it was that in 1919 the first woman to take her seat was elected in a by-election in the seat of Plymouth Sutton. When her husband inherited a seat in the House of Lords, Plymouth women petitioned Lady Astor to stand in the seat he had held in the House of Commons. Their expectations of her when she took her seat were as sky high as the rest of the country’s women. Nancy had never been part of the suffrage movement, and that was a disappointment to some, but she had plenty of relevant life experience to bring to the table and very quickly and willingly took on the role of ‘The MP for Women’. On the day after Nancy was elected, she travelled by train to her home at Cliveden. On changing trains at Paddington, she was greeted by a crowd of suffragettes, some of whom had been force fed on hunger-strike. They rushed forward and presented her with a badge saying “It is the beginning of our era. I am glad I have suffered for this.” She came to receive 2-3000 letters a week and what women raised with her was reflected in the things she supported in her work in parliament. People in Plymouth voted Nancy in at seven elections. She was their MP for twenty-six years until 1945. Well connected, self-confident, she was particularly good at dealing with hecklers in and out of parliament with wit and charm. Part of her legacy was to establish a strong, hardworking, and very positive role model for what people could expect from future female MP’s – on which Plymouth has something of a unique record. As at the date of the centenary of her by-election there had been a woman MP in one of the Plymouth seats for all but six of the 100 years since Nancy took her seat. Lucy Middleton MP on onwards Labour’s Lucy Middleton succeeded Lady Astor. She was selected in 1936 at a time when she could not have had great hopes of winning the seat, with Nancy very well established and popular. However, the outbreak of war in 1939 meant there was not an election until 1945. Nancy did not stand in that election and Lucy became the first Labour woman to represent a Plymouth seat, elected along with 23 other women in the 1945 landslide election. Before that there had only ever been 39 women elected since 1918, during a time when over 2000 men were elected. Born to parents with agricultural roots Lucy had become a teacher, working all over the Westcountry. Labour was just achieving its first MP’s when she joined the party in 1916. In parliament she argued for the party to set up a committee of MP’s to represent the interests of people living in blitzed areas and the difficulties which they and their communities experienced in getting war damage claims dealt with. She lost her seat in the 1951 election to one of Nancy’s sons Jakie Astor. Middleton stood again at the 1956 election but was not elected. She lived into her 80’s playing a key role with others in recording Labour’s history and editing a book on the role of women in the movement. She had been a founding director of No More War in the 1920’s and became the foundation chair of War on Want from 1958-1968. Dame Joan Vickers won the Devonport Seat in 1955. She had a background in welfare work with the Red Cross during the war years, seeing service in Asia and other parts of the world. She addressed numerous women’s issues, and also spoke on defence, as yet unusual in a parliament with still only 24 women members. She spoke often on Commonwealth issues and was a UK delegate to the Council of Europe in Strasbourg, and the Western European Union from 1967-74. Vickers was ahead of her time in championing the cause of trafficked people, a problem which has sadly come back to the fore as people gather together to deal with modern slavery. Dame Joan held the seat until 1974 after which she served in the House of Lords for over a decade. In 1974 the electors of Plymouth Drake, which included a part of what had been Plymouth Sutton, elected Dame Janet Fookes. She represented them until 1997 achieving the distinction of becoming Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons from 1992-1997. During her back-bench years she too spoke on issues relating to defence, education (she had been a teacher) and matters affecting women and families. She successfully put forward a private members bill which became the 1985 Sexual Offences Act. This addressed kerb crawling, the persistent soliciting of women and increasing the maximum sentence for attempted rape. Dame Janet retired in 1997 and has since served in the House of Lords. Work brought me to Plymouth in 1979. After standing for Devon and East Plymouth in the 1994 European election, in 1995 I had the great fortune to be selected to fight the Plymouth Sutton seat and was elected as a Labour and Co-operative MP at the landslide 1997 general election. In 1997 more women MPs were elected (120 including 101 on our side of the house), than had been elected in the 89 years since 1918. Parliament gave me the platform to fight for our new medical and dental schools for Plymouth, to stand up for investment in our world class marine science and technology sector and to ensure that their expertise could be fed into our law making processes especially during the passage of the marine and Coastal Access Bill and the Climate change Bill both of which I worked on. It is always a big part of the job to ensure the city gets its fair share of funding. This took up much energy during the three terms I was fortunate to serve while Labour was in government. In my last term I served on the Defence Select Committee and became Assistant Minister for the South West during the period following the 2008 financial crash. An interest in defence goes with representing Plymouth in parliament. From Lady Astor through to Alison Seabeck (now Raynsford), who was elected the city’s sixth female MP in 2005, we have all played our part standing up for the military communities which form such a significant part of our Plymouth’s life. In 2005 for the first time Plymouth had two serving women MPs. Alison became a government whip in 2007 and spoke with special expertise on housing and local government. She chaired the South West Regional Committee and served as a shadow housing and shadow defence minister after Labour went into opposition in 2010. Following the loss of the Moorview seat she continues to work in support of MP’s at Westminster and to mentor many of Labour’s new generation of women MP’s The Centenary Action Group Plymouth has a track record second to none of sending women to parliament. I hope we have helped to kick away some of the stumbling blocks for women’s participation in politics and public life more generally. Although much has been achieved there is still so much more to press for and to safeguard. Inspired by the suffragists and suffragettes the Centenary Action Group was set up in 2018. Bringing together over 100 activists, politicians, and organisations from across the UK it seeks to ensure that we keep up the public profile achieved nationally and locally by #Vote100. It champions the need to go further in achieving diversity of women’s parliamentary representation. It is active in putting forward the interests of women on the Covid-19 agenda. In these most peculiar and democratically challenging of times the Centenary Action Group is a welcome focal point for us to find new ways to advance women’s voice and place in parliament. You can find out more about Linda, her work and research at her brand new website and blog Into Thin Air .
Recovery & RehabLaser Therapy in Companion Animals David Dycus, DVM, MS, Diplomate ACVS (Small Animal) Regional Institute for Veterinary Emergencies and Referrals (RIVER), Chattanooga, Tennessee Laser therapy use is on the rise in veterinary medicine. Discover the properties of lasers, how they work, and their use in wound healing, pain management, and rehabilitation in the small animal patient. The use of laser therapy in small animal patients has been on the rise over the last several years. More and more information is becoming available about the different uses and benefits of lasers. Unfortunately, from an evidence-based medicine perspective, there is very little information in the veterinary literature. Therefore, current thoughts regarding therapeutic benefits of laser therapy are mainly derived from human and laboratory studies and subjective experiences, that is, anecdotal evidence. Lack of objective, evidence-based observations and studies makes it difficult to evaluate the true therapeutic value of lasers. The intent of this article is to: - Introduce the basic properties of lasers - Explain their proposed mechanism of action, particularly for rehabilitation - Review several treatment protocols for various conditions that have been derived from other sources.1 Each reader is encouraged to seek evidence-based studies to determine whether your patients can benefit from laser treatment, not only for rehabilitation, but for other uses as well.1 WHAT IS LASER THERAPY? The light produced by a laser, which is an acronym for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation, has the ability to be absorbed by tissues, creating both photothermal and photochemical reactions that create a therapeutic benefit. The initial form for rehabilitation purposes used low-level laser therapy (LLLT)1 as opposed to the high power used in surgical lasers, which apply heat to cause thermal destruction of cells and tissues. New therapeutic lasers have recently emerged that deliver more power than LLLT, but less power than surgical lasers. For rehabilitation, exact interaction between lasers and tissues is not completely understood. However, lasers have been shown to modulate cellular functions. For example, LLLT helps modulate various biologic processes that enhance: - Muscle regeneration2 - Wound healing - Joint healing3 - Control of acute and chronic pain.4 HOW DO LASERS WORK? Lasers are created by activating electrons to an excited state.5 Once the electron moves from an excited state to its ground state, release of photons occurs, and they form a beam of light. Many types of lasers are available for purposes ranging from industrial to medical; in veterinary medicine, they are most commonly used for surgery, rehabilitative therapy, management of chronic conditions, and pain control. Laser Light Properties Lasers consist of a monochromatic, coherent, collimated light; these properties help distinguish between laser light and light generated by other sources, such as sunlight. - Essentially, when light is emitted from the unit, it is a single wavelength, unlike natural light, which is emitted at varying wavelengths. - This property allows production of light targeted for absorption by a specific tissue and for a specific use. - Depending on the unit, several wavelength options may be available for different therapeutic uses. Coherent & Collimated - Coherence is characterized by photons that emerge from the unit and travel in the same phase and direction. - Collimation describes light that is emitted from the unit and does not diverge. - Coherence and collimation allow the laser to penetrate the skin, treating only a small area of the body, while minimizing/avoiding unwanted effects to other tissues, such as heating and/or damaging the skin.1 Tissue Interaction with Lasers Tissues interact with lasers in varying ways, allowing light to be reflected, scattered, transmitted, or absorbed. - Reflection of photons takes place at the epidermis; reflected photons not only lack clinical effect, but can also be responsible for tissue damage (eg, to the eyes). - Scattering occurs once the photons penetrate the tissue. Each time the scattered photons strike an object outside the target tissue, the amount of photon energy is reduced. - Transmitted photons also lack clinical effect because they pass through the tissue without being absorbed. - Absorption of photons by the target tissue realizes the therapeutic benefit of lasers. See The Benefits of Absorbed Photons. The Benefits of Absorbed Photons A chromophore is responsible for a molecule’s color and, in biologic molecules, undergoes a conformational change when hit by a light, such as a laser. This change in the chromophore excites cells and can possibly alter, or speed up, cellular reactions.Commonly noted chromophores include hemoglobin, water, melanin, proteins, and amino acids.1 The thought process is that these compounds—when exposed to laser light—cause alteration of cellular functions, allowing increased healing and/or recruitment of secondary mediators to facilitate healing. Wavelengths are typically measured in nanometers (nm). Wavelength is important when determining the biological effect of lasers on tissues. Tissues, such as melanin and proteins, absorb ultraviolet light (100–400 nm). Light on the other end of the spectrum (1400–10,000 nm) is absorbed by water. Therefore, optimum wavelength ranges of 600 to 1200 nm—which minimize scatter and maximize absorption—are recommended for tissue penetration (Figure 1). The power density or intensity indicates the amount of power in a given surface area, while the spot size of the laser indicates the surface area size that can be treated when the laser is held stationary. Lasers with larger spot areas have a more homogeneous passage of the photons with less scatter. The energy of the laser characterizes the power emitted over time, measured in joules. Frequently, energy density is used to report dosage of the laser in joules per cm2 (J/cm2). Continuous or Pulsed Emission of Photons Photons can be emitted either continuously or by pulse. - Continuous emission implies that radiation is emitted at a constant power for the entire duration of use. - Pulsed therapy implies that radiation is delivered in cycles over the entire duration of use, with time spent one of 2 ways: radiation emitted or no radiation emitted. Currently, there is debate for superiority of continuous versus pulsed therapy. Some have suggested that there is no difference,1,6 while others have shown that pulsed therapy may be more effective.7 Laser classification is based on wavelength and maximum output in power or energy. Current classifications consist of class 1 through 4. Class 1 lasers are very mild and safe. They include lasers used in everyday life; for example, those used in equipment that implements bar code scanning, such as cash registers at the supermarket. Class 2 lasers are in the visible light spectrum (400–700 nm). Some therapeutic lasers and laser pointers fall into this class. Damage can occur if the laser is directed into the eye for prolonged periods. Class 3 lasers (Figure 2) include the commonly used therapeutic lasers. These lasers are further subdivided into: - Class 3B lasers are either continuous in the visible to infrared spectrum, or pulsed in the visible light spectrum. - Class 3R lasers are continuous within the visible light spectrum and have less power than Class 3B lasers. Class 4 lasers are the strongest lasers, and mostly include surgical lasers. They have the ability to permanently damage the eyes or burn the skin. - With Class 3 lasers (3B and 3R), eye protection must be used at all times (Figures 3 and 4). - With Class 4 lasers, eye protection must be worn and the clinician must use great care to control the beam.1 WHEN SHOULD LASER THERAPY BE USED? While veterinary studies are sparse, currently, most studies evaluating laser therapy focus on wound healing and pain management. From a biologic perspective, photons absorbed through cellular pathways allow production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This process is similar to photosynthesis in plants: light is absorbed and converted into chemical energy (ATP) by reduction of CO2 to useful organic compounds, such as glucose. ATP not only alters cellular metabolism, but also acts as a cell-signaling molecule8 and/or neurotransmitter. - ATP’s role as a neurotransmitter helps explain some of the pain modulation effects of lasers.1 - Due to enhanced cellular metabolism, lasers potentially accelerate tissue repair and cell growth. - Additional effects of laser therapy are stimulation of stem cells8 and anti-inflammatory effects that decrease prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2).9 Further, in-depth discussion of biochemical reactions is beyond this article’s scope. The anti-inflammatory effects of laser therapy are considered to be due to reduced levels of PGE2 and COX-2.10 In rat osteoarthritis (OA) models, laser therapy (1) reduced edema within the joint by 23%, (2) decreased vascular permeability in the periarticular tissue by 24%, and (3) decreased pain by 59%.11 Some subjective studies in humans with OA have shown (1) improved quality of life,2 (2) reduced pain, and (3) increased analgesic and microcirculatory effects.12 However, there have been conflicting reports in human medicine that reveal no benefits of laser therapy.1 Therefore, it has been suggested that individual results may depend on: - Type and extent of disease - Method of application - Duration of treatment. Tendon & Ligament Conditions An experimental study in rats with calcaneal lesions treated with laser therapy revealed improved collagen organization in the treatment group compared with the control group, with 5-day treatment providing optimal response.13 In humans, results are conflicted, with about 50% of studies showing a positive effect and 50% showing no effect. In human ligamentous injuries, laser therapy has shown improved tensile strength and stiffness compared with controls.14 The exact mechanisms remain un-known, but it is thought that laser therapy has the potential to influence pain perception by direct and indirect actions on superficial nociceptors and modulation of inflammation. Furthermore, repeated application of laser therapy may decrease central sensitization. Laser effects appear to be mainly inhibitory for pain receptors, and sensory nerves are more commonly affected.1 The superficial location of A delta and C nerve fibers, along with neurons that supply the vasculature for vasoconstriction and vasodilation, allows laser penetration. Unfortunately, use of lasers for pain management is purely speculative due to lack of studies. Hopefully, more evidence will become available in the future. - Hold the laser 90 degrees to the skin surface to minimize reflection of the laser. - To help negate the scatter effect, use wavelengths in the range of 600 to 1200 nm, which pass deeper into tissue and minimize this effect, and apply the laser directly to the skin. - Use lasers with larger spot areas, which allow more homogeneous passage of photons, less scatter, and greater treatment area. HOW IS LASER THERAPY APPLIED? To treat small areas, laser therapy is administered using a handheld probe with a beam. The probe can be placed in: - Direct contact with the skin, which minimizes reflection of photons (Figure 5) - A noncontact position, in which the probe is held perpendicular to the treatment area and off the skin (Figure 6). Noncontact is recommended for wound treatment. Dose & Duration Currently, the most efficient way to determine the dose and time is to use available treatment tables1 (Table). - Clip the patient’s hair, which maximizes the laser’s effect because hair absorbs 50% to 90% of the light. - Measure the area to be treated. - Determine the treatment dose; in areas of darker skin, the dose should be increased by 25%. - Determine the total joules (J/cm2) and treatment time needed. For example: If treating an area of 57 cm2 (size of a playing card) with 10 J/cm2, the total treatment is 600 J. If using a 10-W laser, the treatment time is 60 seconds. - Place safety goggles prior to using the laser: all personnel in the room should wear protective eye gear, and the patient’s eyes should also be protected. - The laser should be pointed perpendicular to the treatment area. - Apply the laser treatment, moving slowly, over the area by using an overlapping grid technique to ensure the entire area is treated. Precautions with laser therapy generally involve protecting the eyes during treatment. Since the light is coherent, a small amount focused on the retina may cause permanent damage. Fortunately, visible light will generate a blink reflex to help protect the user; however, infrared lights are not visible so a blink reflex will not occur. In general, laser therapy is an emerging technique that appears to at least have subjective benefits. Potential areas where laser therapy can be incorporated are in wound healing, pain management, and rehabilitation for various conditions (eg, OA). As has been emphasized, evidence-based, peer-reviewed studies are lacking. The author encourages readers to pursue well-controlled studies that help document a proven benefit, along with appropriate doses and conditions that can be treated. Contraindications & Precautions to Laser Therapy1 - Always use protective eye gear; furthermore, eyewear should be appropriate for the wavelength of the laser being used. - Never direct the laser into the eye. - Use caution around metal surfaces as they can cause scatter of the laser light. - Use caution with the following: pregnancy, open fontanels, around growth plates, malignancies, and photosensitive areas of the skin. - Darker skin and hair can absorb the laser light and cause excessive heating of the skin. ATP = adenosine triphosphate; COX-2 = cyclooxygenase-2; laser = light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation; LLLT = low-level laser therapy; nm = nanometer; OA = osteoarthritis; PGE2 = prostaglandin E2 - Millis DL, Saunders DG. Laser therapy in canine rehabilitation. In Millis DL, Levine D (eds): Canine Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy, 2nd ed. Philadelphia: Elsevier, 2014, pp 359-380. - Djavid GE, Mortazavi SMJ, Basirnia A, et al. Low level laser therapy in musculoskeletal pain syndromes: Pain relief and disability reduction. Lasers Surg Med 2003; 152:43. - Stelian J, Gil I, Habot B, et al. Laser therapy is effective for degenerative OA. Improvement of pain and disability in elderly patients with degenerative OA of the knee treated with narrow-band light therapy. J Am Geriatr Soc 1992; 40:23-26. - Chow RT, Heller GZ, Barnsley L. The effect of 300 mW, 830 nm laser on chronic neck pain: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study. Pain 2006; 124:201-210. - Belanger AY. Laser: Evidence Based Guide to Therapeutic Physical Agents. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, 2002. - Bjordal JM, Lopes-Martins RA, Joensen J, et al. A systematic review with procedural assessments and meta-analysis of low level laser therapy in lateral elbow tendinopathy (tennis elbow). BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2008; 9:75. - Hasmi JT, Huang YY, Sharma SK, et al. Effect of pulsing in low-level light therapy. Lasers Surg Med 2010; 42(6):450-466. - Karu T. Mitochondrial mechanisms of photobiomodulation in context of new data about multiple roles of ATP. Photomed Laser Surg 2010; 28(2):159-160. - Medrado AR, Pugliese LS, Reis SR, Andrade ZA. Influence of low level laser therapy on wound healing and its biological action upon myofibroblasts. Lasers Surg Med 2003; 32(3):239-244. - Rubio CR, Cremonezzi E, Moya M, et al. Helium-neon laser reduces inflammatory process of arthritis. Photomed Laser Surg 2010; 28(1):125-129. - de Morais NCR, Barbosa AM, Vale ML, et al. Anti-inflammatory effect of low-level laser and light-emitting diode in zymosan-induced arthritis. Photomed Laser Surg 2010; 28(2):227-232. - Hegedus B, Viharos L, Gervain M, et al. The effect of low-level laser in knee OA: A double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial. Lasers Surg Med 2003; 33:330-338. - Oliveria FS, Pinfildi CE, Parizoto NA, et al. Effect of low-level laser therapy (830 nm) with different therapy regimes on the process of tissue repair in partial lesion calcaneous tendon. Lasers Surg Med 2009; 41(4):271-276. - Fung DT, Ng GY, Leung MC, Tay DK. Therapeutic low energy laser improves the mechanical strength of repairing medial collateral ligament. Lasers Surg Med 2002; 31(2):91-96.
Tuesday, April 12, 2022 \| 5:00 PM – 6:30 pm PDT Although it’s now the norm to begin speeches and events with land acknowledgements, not everyone may understand the significance of these formalities. Interested in learning more? At this inclusive and bridge-building webinar, everyone is invited to deepen their understanding by listening to panelists from different Indigenous nations/bands who will discuss the purpose and meaning of these important customary statements. Have something you’re wondering about? Bring your questions — a short Q&A session will also be held. Special Projects Manager, Treaty Lands & Resources, Tsleil-Waututh Nation Carleen Thomas is an educator and former council member for the Tsleil-Waututh Nation. She was appointed Chancellor of Emily Carr University on August 3, 2021. Ms. Thomas is currently the Special Projects Manager for the Treaty, Lands and Resources department at the Tsleil-Waututh Nation. Prior to this position, she served eight two-year terms as an elected council member for the Tsleil-Waututh Nation, in which she held the Community Development portfolio covering health and education. Ms. Thomas holds a bachelor’s degree in education from UBC and has previously worked for the North Vancouver and Burnaby school districts as a district resource teacher in Indigenous education. She also sat on the Burnaby School District’s Aboriginal Advisory Committee and served as the Aboriginal Representative Chair in the Capilano University Senate. She currently sits on the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee, a federal advisory committee made up of 13 Indigenous and six senior federal representatives that provides advice to regulators and monitors the Trans Mountain Expansion project and existing pipeline. Associate Superintendent of Indigenous Education, BC Ministry of Education Brad is a proud member of the Squamish Nation and carries the ancestral name Tsnomot, which he shares with his late grandfather and father. Brad’s father is an Indian Residential School survivor after spending eight years at St. Paul’s Indian Residential School. Brad has been an educator for 26 years in the North Vancouver School District. For the last 8 years his position has been District Principal with the portfolios of Indigenous Education and Safe Schools. He is also an Adjunct Professor at UBC within the Faculty of Education. He started a new position in December 2021, with BC’s Ministry of Education, as the Associate Superintendent for Indigenous Education. Brad was recently selected to the Governor-General of Canada’s Leadership Conference. He was 1 of 250 leaders from across Canada that came together to develop strategies on how to move Canada forward in the next 150 years. Brad was the recipient of the Indspire Guiding the Journey National Award for Leadership in Indigenous Education. Brad is currently a Candidate in the Doctor of Education program at the University of British Columbia. Brad has had the opportunity to enhance the awareness and the values of Indigenous Education that lead to dialogue through his presentations across Canada and the United States. One of Brad’s mottos is for all of us to understand “Truth Before Reconciliation” and to “Go Forward With Courage.” During the conversation with Brad, you will be able to gain an understanding of the importance of Indigenous knowledge and Indigenous ways of knowing within your own practice and as a member of society. Faculty, Lecturer, First Nations Language Program; Urban Coordinator, NITEP, Faculty of Education, UBC Marny is from the Musqueam band, of the Coast Salish people. Marny would also like to acknowledge UBC resides on the traditional and unceded territory of the Musqueam people. Marny has completed both her degrees: a Bachelor of Education & Masters of Educational Technology and is currently working on her Ph.D. in LLED at UBC. Marny has been the Program Coordinator and is an Instructor in the NITEP On-Campus center, teaching the introductory Indigenous education courses. She is an active member of the UBC/MIB Language Committee and was the First Nations and Endangered Languages Program (FNEL) Instructor, teaching the intermediate level of the Coast Salish traditional Musqueam language course, hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ from 2002 until 2019. She understands how the connection to Indigenous languages; gives value, honour and a sense of identity, which cements Native Indigenous, people in place and culture. Marny comes from a long line of fisher-people, and she too is an avid fisherwoman – owning and operating her own gillnetter. As her dad and grandfather always did, she harvests sockeye salmon from the Fraser River every summer, in this cultural activity, she is able to share those same teachings on to her own children, connecting them to their traditional language & ways of her people. Marny is actively involved in the education of the Aboriginal youth – she has taught in the elementary grades, been a liaison for her community and neighbouring schools and sits on many committees to ensure the betterment of Indigenous education.
The letter NUN has a numerical value of fifty, and is the symbol of faithfulness. There are two forms of the letter NUN: the bent one and the elongated one. The long NUN is only used at the end of a word. The Hebrew word for soul (neshamah), and candle (ner) both begin with the letter NUN. The Hebrew word for faithful one, ne’eman, is signified by the letter NUN. In Aramaic NUN means ‘fish’, symbolic of fertility because they multiply rapidly. The number fifty signifies the fifty days of the counting of the Omer, from the first day of Passover to the first day of Shavuot.
Photovoltaic (PV) systems use the sunlight and convert it to electrical power. It is predicted that by 2023, 371,000 PV installations will be embedded in power networks in the UK. This may increase the risk of voltage rise which has adverse impacts on the power network. The balance maintenance is important for high security of the physical electrical systems and the operation economy. Therefore, the prediction of the output of PV systems is of great importance. The output of a PV system highly depends on local environmental conditions. These include sun radiation, temperature, and humidity. In this research, the importance of various weather factors are studied. The weather attributes are subsequently employed for the prediction of the solar panel power generation from a time-series database. Long-Short Term Memory networks are employed for obtaining the dependencies between various elements of the weather conditions and the PV energy metrics. Evaluation results indicate the efficiency of the deep networks for energy generation prediction. \|Publication status\|\|Published - 14 Jul 2019\| \|Event\|\|2019 International Joint Conference on Neural Networks - InterContinental Budapest Hotel, Budapest, Hungary\| Duration: 14 Jul 2019 → 19 Jul 2019 \|Conference\|\|2019 International Joint Conference on Neural Networks\| \|Abbreviated title\|\|IJCNN 2019\| \|Period\|\|14/07/19 → 19/07/19\|
This storyboard does not have a description. Stage 1 is known as the stage of Pestilence and Famine. In this stage infectious diseases with no cures are highly probable causes of death. For example the bubonic plague wiped out 1/3 of the world's population in this stage. There was no cure and no medicine that could prevent this disease from spreading. Stage 1 of the demographic transition model aligns with stage 1 of the epidemiological transition model because the demographic model shows how the birth and the death rates were both high which means there is low to no growth in this society. The reason for the death rates being so high is because of the diseases that spread and killed people rapidly due to the lack of medicines being available in this time. The reason for high birth rates in this time period was because this stage is more agriculturally based, which means hand for farms. It also means that the babies are more likely to die because of these diseases, and there are more replacement babies Explore Our Articles and Examples Try Our Other Websites! Photos for Class – Search for School-Safe, Creative Commons Photos! (It Even Cites for You! – Easily Make and Share Great Looking Rubrics!
The Austrian Fund for the Documentation of Religiously Motivated Political Extremism (Dokumentationsstelle Politischer Islam) recently released a report mapping the Muslim Brotherhood’s presence in Europe. The report, “The Muslim Brotherhood’s Pan-European Structure”, notes that “[a]ll aspects of the presence of the Muslim Brotherhood in Europe, including its very existence, have long been debated”, but the reality is that the Brotherhood retains a “position of relative influence” within Muslim populations across the Continent and understanding how this works “is crucially important for European policymakers and civil society”. Islam and Islamism in Europe The report begins with a caution about how poorly-informed the discussion around Islamism has been at many points over the last few years, with people “erroneously confusing various outwardly manifestations of the Islamic faith with the actions of Islamists.” Even Islamism itself is an “extremely heterogeneous ideological movement”, with violent jihadists like Al-Qaeda and Islamic State at one end of the spectrum and “participationists” at the other, with a broad array in between, including Salafists and “militant/activist groups” like Hizb-ut-Tahrir. Participationists are defined as “individuals and groups that adopt a highly conservative and politicised interpretation of their faith that, like the others, sees Islam as an all-encompassing system regulating all aspects of private and public life. But, unlike jihadists and most Salafists, participationists believe that working within the existing political systems, even if that means occasionally and temporarily sacrificing some of their principles, is the best way to further their goals. Whether in the Middle East or in Europe, the Muslim Brotherhood constitutes the archetypal participationist Islamist group.” This tension between what the Brotherhood wants and its tactics has led to an endless debate over whether the group “truly” believes in democracy, and whether to categorize it as “moderate” or “extremist”. These discussions, often strident in tone, are rarely based on good evidence. This report aims to correct this problem. The Brotherhood Structure in Europe The Muslim Brotherhood is the oldest Islamist group, founded in Egypt by Hassan al-Banna in 1928. The major distinction and difficulty when looking at the Brotherhood in Europe is that, unlike in Arab countries, the Brotherhood in Europe operates through political, educational, charitable, and other organizations that often go to “great lengths” to deny that they are Muslim Brotherhood formations. This deceptiveness is part of the explanation for why “[n]o European country … has adopted a cohesive assessment [of what the Brotherhood is within its borders] followed by all branches of its government”. As the report notes, the exact structure varies from country to country, though there are some common features. The “original embryo” of the Brethren’s presence in all cases was established beginning in the late 1950s and early 1960s, usually by a small cadre of senior Brotherhood members driven from their homelands by government crackdowns and Middle Eastern university students. The leadership cadre—men like , notably Said Ramadan, Yusuf Nada, Ghaleb Himmat, Rached Ghannouchi, Nooh al-Kaddo, and Ahmed Jaballah—are, where they are still alive, still in leadership positions, and where they are not their families have taken over. Far from being a well-considered plot to infiltrate the Continent, neither the Brotherhood leaders nor students initially intended to stay long-term in Europe. As it became clear the situation in the Arab world was not going to change, these early pioneers began to establish themselves in the European states where they had landed, setting up mosques, businesses, charities, and lobby organizations. “Today”, the report explains, “every major European country is home to a small network of individuals and organizations with varying degrees of connectivity to the Muslim Brotherhood.” The nature of the Brotherhood infrastructure in each European can be defined as fitting into “three separate yet highly connected realities”, the report notes, “which, in decreasing degrees of intensity, are”: - Pure Brothers: “The first generation of pioneers arriving from the Arab world set up structures that mirrored those of the countries of origin, obviously replicated on a much smaller scale. Pure Brothers are individuals who, having undergone a rigorous recruitment process and having been sworn in, belong to the non-public/secret structure created by Brotherhood members in each European country.” - Brotherhood Spawns: “Upon arriving in Europe, the first Brothers established a web of organizations devoted to a broad array of activities. None of these entities publicly identifies as having links with any structure of the Muslim Brotherhood. But, in reality, they represent the other side of the coin to the pure Brothers—the public face of the secretive network, the part that advances the group’s agenda in society without giving away the secret structure. … Brotherhood spawns do not identify as being linked to the Brotherhood and reject any accusation of the contrary, often using the argument that they are independent entities—something that is, on a purely formalistic level, correct. Moreover, to increase their engagement potential [with Muslim communities and European societies], Brotherhood Spawns are given names that seek to convey an image of moderation and broad representativeness.” - Brotherhood-Influenced Organizations: “These are entities that have some historical, organizational, financial and, most importantly, ideological ties to the core Brotherhood milieu but have no clear operational ties to it.” The Pure Brothers and the leadership of the other two categories are within what the report calls the Brotherhood “milieu”, a term that “is preferable to the term ‘branch’ because the latter gives an impression of dependence. In reality, each European Brotherhood milieu operates in complete autonomy from other European milieus and from the much larger branches in the Middle East/North Africa.” The number of full Brotherhood members in each country is “relatively small”—about one-thousand in big countries like Britain and France—but “each has the capacity to influence and mobilise a much larger number of allies and fellow travellers”, and the various fronts operate as a “cohesive cluster.” The report documents: “Arguably no other European country has a presence of Muslim Brotherhood networks that is historically, quantitatively and qualitatively more important than the United Kingdom. … In substance, starting in the 1960s, virtually every Middle Eastern and North African branch of the Brotherhood established some presence in the UK.” Senior Brotherhood leaders from the “central” branch in Egypt, as well as Tunisia, Libya, Iraq, and many other countries around the world have often been based in British cities, and that is true at the present time: after the fall of the Brotherhood government in Egypt, the acting Supreme Guide has been based in London. The Muslim Association of Britain (MAB) and Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) are two of the most prominent local manifestations of the Brotherhood milieu in the United Kingdom. There was some turbulence for a time after 2011 as Brotherhood leaders left Britain to engage in the Arab Spring back home; now that the tide has turned against the Islamists in the region, many are back in Britain. The British government made a decision to engage the radicals in the hope that they would rein-in the violent Islamists; this was predictably subverted by the Islamists, who used their status as interlocuters to dominate their own communities and direct state policy towards their own program. The policy has since been abandoned. The report has similarly in-depth studies of the situation, past and present, in other European countries. Despite the autonomy of each Brotherhood milieu, they have ceaselessly tried to create a pan-European coordination network. The first effort, the Islamic Council of Europe, fizzled, but, after an important meeting in Madrid in 1984, they established the Federation of Islamic Organizations in Europe (FIOE) in 1989, which changed its name to the Council of European Muslims (CEM) in 2020. It is important here to note that alongside the Brotherhood and often in collaboration with it there is a parallel situation with the Subcontinental spinoff of the Brotherhood, Jamaat-e-Islami, based in Pakistan, which looks to the teachings of Abul Ala Mawdudi, a friend of Al-Banna’s. FIOE/CEM has then created a series of specialised organizations for specific parts of the overall task of spreading Brotherhood influence and ideology. These groups include the Federation of European Muslim Youth and Student Organizations (FEMYSO); the European Institute for Human Sciences (IESH) to oversee a network of schools; the European Council for Fatwa and Research (ECFR) in Dublin, historically led by Yusuf al-Qaradawi, to provide religious guidance according to Brotherhood lights to Muslims living in Christian societies; and Europe Trust, based in Britain, “controlled by some of the most senior leaders of the European Brotherhood network”, to manage the finances of the Brotherhood in Europe. All of these are controlled by senior Brotherhood members and/or their children. The Islamic Relief Worldwide (IRW) is another organization that is an important part of this project, though it is publicly distanced from the FIO/CEM apparatus and “strongly denies any connection to the Muslim Brotherhood”. It does not take much digging to see that its connections, in personnel and finances, to the Brethren milieus in each country are “extensive”, and each of the Brotherhood structures in each of the countries rather publicly support and fundraise for IRW. The Union of Islamic Organizations in France (UOIF), known since 2017 as the Muslims of France (MF), provides an interesting case study of one of the FIOE/CEM satellite organizations that denies it is any such thing. The FIOE, which started in the United Kingdom, is base in Belgium, but is not registered as a Belgian group. Rather, it is registered as a French organization and it gives as the address for its headquarters the offices of UOIF/MF. One of France’s oldest Muslim organizations, UOIF tries to obfuscate its Brotherhood links but “there is in fact little doubt about UOIF’s nature as a quintessential Brotherhood spawn”. Why is the Brotherhood so Influential? The Brotherhood network’s “circular nature cannot be overstated”, the report notes: this is a relatively small number of individuals who all know each other and share an outlook provides for a “tight-knit Islamist nomenklatura” that exercises “a disproportionate impact on organised Islam in Europe”. The “the massive web of mosques, charities, schools, lobbying and civil rights organizations, and many other kinds of entities that cater to specific needs or sub-groups” gives the Brotherhood a deep influence over Muslim communities on the one side and European establishments on the other. European politicians, government departments, and the media often treat this “vocal and visible presence” as if it represents Muslim communities because within those communities the Brotherhood, by its nature as a well-organized and determined movement, tends to “outshine competing Muslim trends”. When European elites look around for Muslim interlocuters to engage, those from the Brotherhood milieu often appear to be the only option and, again, they give an impression of being much larger and more representative than is really true. One reason the Brotherhood is able to prevail in the intra-Muslim struggle for influence in Europe is its access to money. The streams of funding are four: donations from the Muslim community, its own financial activities (business enterprises like halal meat, real estate, and so on), foreign donations (in recent years mostly from Qatar and to a lesser extent Kuwait and Turkey), and grants from European Union and European governments (for integration, anti-racism, and even, astonishingly, anti-radicalism work, sometimes delivered through Brotherhood-run charities). The Brotherhood’s Aims While some of the Brotherhood leadership in Europe does harbour a desire to ultimately Islamize the Continent, the timeline for this project is rather hazy and in its day-to-day work the Brethren has “goals that are significantly more realistic”: (1) spreading its religious worldview to foster a Muslim identity among European populations that is resistant to assimilation; (2) becoming the de facto official representative of Muslims in dealing with European governments; and (3) influencing any and all Islam-related policies by European states. The requirements for achieving (1) are to indoctrinate Muslims in the exclusivist Brotherhood ideology, and the requirements for (2) and (3) are to appear moderate and inclusive—hence the systematic two-facedness of the Brotherhood organizations in Europe, which has to at least formally conceal in interactions with European officials its adherence to views on Jews, homosexuals, and women that it wants transmitted to Muslim audiences. In this way, the Brotherhood milieu avoids the societal stigma of white far-Right groups that express similar antisemitic, homophobic, and misogynistic views, and, indeed, generally finds its most enthusiastic non-member advocates among progressive forces that ostensibly have the protection of the rights of these marginalized groups as central aims. The Nature of the Threat Assessing the threat from the Brotherhood is complicated. As the report documents, “From a security point of view, it should be stated that the European Brotherhood does not pose a direct threat and that the movement is not engaged in any attack on the Continent.” That said, the network provides overt support, rhetorical and material, to violent Islamists outside Europe like HAMAS, the Brotherhood’s Palestinian department. The report has extensive documentation of the antisemitism promoted by these groups and their enthusiastic support for terrorism against Israel. Within Europe, the Brotherhood fosters doctrinal atmospherics, notably in its insistence on a narrative of Muslim victimhood in countries that unanimously provide Muslims more freedom than any Muslim-majority state, that produce a “conducive environment for violent radicalization”. More importantly, the polarization that the Brotherhood stokes between Muslims and non-Muslims—the core of the Brotherhood’s work on the Continent—is a threat of its own, damaging social cohesion and thus the order of the state and society. What, then, should be done? As the report concludes this is contested and “no blanket policy can or should be adopted”. The Brotherhood has tailored its policies in each country to the cultural, historical, and political dynamics, and authorities in those countries should do the same thing. “Notwithstanding these difficulties, it is still possible to provide three general policy recommendations that are arguably applicable to all European actors”: - Build knowledge. If European governments have to or choose to engage individuals or groups from the Brotherhood milieu, they should be very clear about the nature and intentions of the people sitting across the desk from them. - “Engage, but don’t empower”: there are all kinds of reasons why “even … governments that view the network in very negative terms” might find themselves talking to representatives of the Brotherhood milieu, but these interactions should not be conducted in a way that provides any legitimacy or other political capital. - Cease official funding: European governments should modify the criteria it uses in providing grants and other monies to discard the purely formalistic and instead recipients should be assessed on whether their system of values is compatible with the aims of a liberal democratic state. In the Middle East, the trendline has turned harshly against Islamism since the outbreak of the Arab Spring in 2011. A bloc of countries led by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have worked to provide an alternative vision of the future to the Islamists and outright banned the Muslim Brotherhood, declaring it a terrorist organization. Many other states have gone less far, but have taken broadly similar approaches, with the notable exceptions of Turkey and Qatar. Europe has been slow to react and in some respects retrograde as the Brotherhood milieu has created strong links with powerful political constituencies in the political and social systems that not only advocate against policies that might curb the spread of the Brotherhood’s destructive ideology, but continue to prevent a serious discussion about how to handle the Brotherhood taking place by miring the public discussion in a dispute about whether the Brotherhood even exists in Europe. This report should at least help Europe get over this first hurdle and begin the difficult discussion about what to do with regard to the Brotherhood presence.
ONE of the strongest and wettest El Ninos will soon pummel East Africa, bringing heavy rains, floods and malaria. The prospect of a record- breaking El Nino is worrying since the 1997 weather killed many people in Kenya, and left hundreds homeless. Scientists say the condition, experienced across the world, could be the strongest since the 1950s. Weather experts from East Africa will meet in Dar es Salaam next week to discuss likely scenarios and disaster response. Weather agencies worldwide have confirmed El Nino is on the way. The Kenya Meteorological Department deputy director Ayub Shaka yesterday said Kenyans should wait for the report from next week’s meeting in Dar es Salaam. “After that meeting, any update on El Nino will be given together with the three-month seasonal forecast,” he told the Star. Forecasts across the world show a high likelihood of El Nino strengthening from next month, and spilling over to early 2016. The World Health Organisation and the International Research Institute for Climate and Society at Columbia University warned a malaria outbreak is likely in Kenya because of the wetter and warmer weather. “It will be important to monitor rainfall and associated flooding and minimum temperatures, given their impact on malaria outbreaks,” says an alert by WHO. - Thank you for participating in discussions on The Star, Kenya website. You are welcome to comment and debate issues, however take note that: - Comments that are abusive; defamatory; obscene; promote or incite violence, terrorism, illegal acts, hate speech, or hatred on the grounds of race, ethnicity, cultural identity, religious belief, disability, gender, identity or sexual orientation, or are otherwise objectionable in the Star’s reasonable discretion shall not be tolerated and will be deleted. - Comments that contain unwarranted personal abuse will be deleted. - Strong personal criticism is acceptable if justified by facts and arguments. - Deviation from points of discussion may lead to deletion of comments. - Failure to adhere to this policy and guidelines may lead to blocking of offending users. Our moderator’s decision to block offending users is final.
“What do you do with strawberry plants in the winter?” Question from Jacklyn or Portland, Oregon Answer: In mild areas like yours, strawberries (Fragaria spp., USDA Zones 4-9) are very hardy, so no special overwintering measures need to be taken. You can, however, clean them up and thin clumps that are over 3 years of age to encourage strong fruiting. Central plants that are three or more years old start to produce less and less fruit. If you replace the main plants with one of the plant’s newer offshoots, you will get more strawberries the following year. Start by weeding around your strawberry plants. You can also protect them with light straw or leaf mulch around the base of the plants. If you have older strawberries that need to be thinned and replaced, remove the central plant, and plant in its place one of the larger offshoots that have rooted. Fertilize your new strawberry plants with an all-purpose slow-release fertilizer to encourage good rooting and growth through fall and again late winter. Feed once more in early to mid-spring. From there, I encourage you to watch our video about everything that you need to know about growing strawberries. Black Gold Horticulturist
Erections and how they work The penis has two chambers inside it called the corpora cavernosa. These chambers extend from the head of your penis deep into the pelvis. The insides of these chambers are made of spongy tissue and have the ability to gain blood volume and grow in size. During your daily activities, the arteries that supply blood to the penis are only partially open, to allow enough blood flow to keep your tissue healthy. When you experience sexual stimulation, the brain sends signals to trigger a hormonal response that allows those same arteries to open completely. Those open arteries allow more blood to enter the corpora cavernosa faster than the blood can leave through the veins. As the corpora cavernosa fill and grow in size, the veins get compressed, trapping blood in the penis, causing it to get stiff. This chain reaction continues until you achieve and maintain an erection. When your brain stops sending signals, the hormones diminish and your arteries go back to their normal state. E.D. problems begin when our brain doesn’t send enough or any signals, when the blood flow is inadequate, or when erectile tissue is damaged. 3) As the chambers rapidly fill with blood, they expand, and the penis becomes firm and elongated. The result is an erection.
maintenance, care, compatibility Why do we need snails in an aquarium :: why do we need snails in an aquarium :: Aquarium fish Decorative snails are quite common inhabitants of the aquarium. They decorate it well and help to relax after a hard day: their elegant slowness captivates many. In addition to aesthetics and beauty, these mollusks also have a practical function. The question “opened a pet store. Business is not going. What to do? “- 2 answers Snails can bring both harm and benefit to the aquarium ecosystem. It all depends on their variety and quantity. Such mollusks such as ampoule, horn coil, acrolux, melania are very popular with aquarists. If you properly care for the aquarium and control the number of snails, they will bring a lot of benefit. Shellfish are excellent aquarium nurses. They not only eat up food that fish did not eat, but also their excrement. Thus, these aquatic inhabitants contribute to the purification of water. The remains of feed are a favorable environment for the growth of pathogenic bacteria, which can make turbid of clear water in a matter of hours. In addition, mollusks eat dead plant parts and clean their bacterial deposits from the walls with their rough tongue. This affects the installation of a favorable microclimate and biological equilibrium in aquarium. Certain types of mollusks, such as ampulyarias, serve as a kind of indicator of the status of aquarium water. By their behavior, one can determine if there is enough oxygen in the water. With its shortage, as well as with a sharp change in the pH of the water, the ampoule rises through the glass to the surface of the water and pulls out its siphon tube, the organ that allows it to breathe air. Similarly, the cochlea “signals” to an inexperienced aquarist that it is time to make a water change or purchase a good aerator. One of the disadvantages of ornamental snails is their active reproduction. A large number of mollusks in aquarium can lead to overcrowding and, as a result, a lack of oxygen to other inhabitants. In addition, a large population of snails can greatly eat the plants. The best ratio can be considered: one snail per 10 liters of water. Therefore, in a timely manner, scrape their eggs from the glasses, which they lay off with an enviable constancy, to prevent overcrowding of the aquarium. Will they live in your aquarium snails, or not – it’s up to you. But remember that you can not put mollusks in it from the reservoirs, because with them can get an infection. In addition, some pond snails produce mucus in the water that pollutes it. Purchase mollusks for your aquarium only in pet stores. one. Why aquarium? Long since, since the times of ancient China, people were fond of breeding aquarium fish! This is an interesting and exciting experience. Like any thing, an aquarium has its own advantages and disadvantages, but it seems to me that a hobby for aquarism makes a person kinder and better. Look, please, here are these articles: I WANT TO LEAD AN AQUARIUM! HOW TO BUY AN AQUARIUM? I WANT AQUARIUM WITH WHAT TO BEGIN? Typical aquarium questions beginners. And also, AQUARIUM FAILURES: do we really need these fish? 2 Why in the aquarium snails? Snails, along with fish, are full inhabitants of the aquarium. In addition to the aesthetic characteristics, aquarium snails are health workers of the aquarium world – they eat fish waste and waste products, clean the walls of the aquarium and plants. In addition, some fish are not averse to eating clams, and therefore many aquarists get them as a food. Read the YELLOW SNAIL AMPULARIA IN YOUR AQUARIUM and the SNAIL COIL. 3 Why in the aquarium light? In fact, the light in the aquarium fish do not need. The person needs him more to be able to observe his pets at any time of the day. Light is definitely needed by aquarium plants that simply will die without it, so if there are live plants in your aquarium, keep this in mind. To find out which plant, how much light you need, see AQUARIUM PLANTS. four. Why in the aquarium plants and algae? Plants, both on Earth and under water, are “light” ecosystems! Do not underestimate the role of plants and algae in an aquarium. They are the main regulators of the normal operation of the aquarium biosystem. In addition, many fish aquarium just need a vegetable feed. And some fish use plants as shelters and spawning grounds. Cm. FISHING EATING PLANTS WHAT TO DO? five. Why in aquarium co2? Why carbon dioxide in the aquarium? The co2 system and carbon dioxide are needed by aquarium plants. With such a system, the plants feel good and grow. See, CO2 for an aquarium: carbon dioxide supply system + CO2 table! 6 Why in the aquarium need a compressor filter? Compressor, filter, aeration – this is the basic equipment that is necessary for the functioning of the aquarium. They provide the presence of dissolved oxygen in the water, which is necessary for fish, they clean the aquarium water from waste products and other harmful substances. In addition, the aquarium water is circulated through this equipment. Cm. WHAT IS NECESSARY TO THE AQUARIUM: what to consider when choosing an aquarium and which fish to buy? 7 Why defend water for an aquarium? Tap water is defended in order to get out of it excess dissolved oxygen, which is detrimental to fish. In addition, some impurities evaporate from the settled water — for example, bleach. See WATER CHANGE IN THE AQUARIUM! WHAT WATER IS NEEDED FOR THE AQUARIUM? How much water should be defended for the aquarium? What kind of water to fill! and boiled thawed or distilled water for an aquarium. eight. Why add salt to the aquarium? Salt is used to treat aquarium fish and for some species of fish that love brackish water. Read the article PUD OF SALT IN THE AQUARIUM: how much salt to add to the aquarium? See Aquarium for beginners. Category: Aquarium Articles / EQUIPMENT AND FACILITY AQUARIUM \| Views: 7 005 \| Date: 3-06-2013, 16:02 \| Comments (1) We also recommend reading: - – Aggressive aquarium fish – black list of villains - – “POSSIBLE FISHES” – blitz all the answers - – Aquarium live fish or imitation, which is better - – You can aquarium: all the answers - – The origin and meaning of the word aquarium If kept alone, a very small aquarium, about 40 liters, is enough for them. Since snails eat aquarium ampoules, they are very much, as well as a lot of waste after them, it will be right to allocate at least 10-12 liters of volume to one. Considering that they multiply rather cheerfully, it is not worth keeping them much. But, since amphulyaries themselves are rarely contained in an aquarium, it is better to rely on a larger volume of the aquarium. So, for 3-4 snails + fish, you need about 100 liters. Of course, much depends on your conditions and details. But usually, 10 liters per ampoule will not let you down. Yellow ampouleries are completely peaceful, never touching fish or invertebrates. There is a misconception that they attack fishes. But, this is due to the fact that snails are scavengers and eat up the dead fish, and it seems that they killed the fish. No snail is able to catch up, catch and kill healthy and active fish. But fish ampulyarius is even worried. They can tear off their mustaches, such as Sumatran barbs, or even completely destroy them, like a dwarf tetradon, fahak, a green tetradon, a clown combat or large cichlids. Some will not be able to eat large snails, but small ones will be brought under the net. And large ones will be nibbled at any opportunity, which will not add to their health either. Also invertebrates can become a problem – shrimps and crayfish, they skillfully pick out snails from shells and eat.
Last modified December 4, 2014 This subsection of the ‘Names and taxonomy’ section provides information on the name(s) of the organism that is the source of the protein sequence. The organism designation consists of the Latin scientific name, usually composed of the genus and species names (the binomial system developed by Linnaeus), followed optionally by the English common name and a synonym. Examples: Bacillus subtilis, Homo sapiens, Cardamine pratensis (Cuckoo flower) (Alpine bitter cress) The synonym can be a common name in English (or in Latin in the case of some historical legacy names). Example: Radianthus magnifica (Magnificent sea anemone) (Heteractis magnifica) In the case of viruses, the designation does not follow the binomial system. The English common name is used as the scientific name, sometimes followed by an acronym. When possible, viruses are named according to the nomenclature of the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV). Examples: Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (isolate BRU/LAI group M subtype B) (HIV-1), Influenza A virus (strain A/Aichi/2/1968 H3N2) The organism name can differ from that given by the international nucleotide sequence databases for the same taxon. This is mainly due to our efforts in providing the most descriptive common names and synonyms to our users. Note that the proteome for a given organism, when available, can be accessed through the proteomes page of our website.
From their first triumph in March of 1941, The British were nervously on guard of a potential surprise attack by the most effective and devastating branch of the Italian military of World War Two; the 10th Light Flotilla (or Xa Mas). The Duke of Spoleto, who was a motor boat enthusiast, helped dream of the idea of a naval assault unit for the Italian Navy. These units utilized Explosive Motor Boats, Torpedo Boats, Miniature submarines and the infamous Human Torpedoes (AKA: SLC or Maiale). By the end of the war, these units would sink, or severely disable, 86,000 tons of Allied warships and 131,527 tons of merchant shipping. In October of 1935, two sublieutenants proposed a radical new weapon which would eventually become known as the Human Torpedo. The Italian Navy was so excited and aware of the potential of this new weapon that they ordered a testing in La Spezia 3 months later. The idea of a manned torpedo was furnished from previous manned torpedo actions that occurred in both the Revolutionary War and World War One. But it was the Italian 10th Light Flotilla, formed in 1940, that would perfect this deadly new weapon. The 10th Light Flotilla was responsible for 28 ships sunk or damaged in World War Two. These ships include the battleships HMS Queen Elizabeth, HMS Valiant, cruiser HMS York and 111, 527 tons of merchant shipping. Partial listing of ships sunk or crippled by the 10th Light Flotilla \|Durham\|\|10,900 Tons\|\|Gibraltar\|\|Sep, 1941\| \|Baron Douglas\|\|3,900 Tons\|\|Gibraltar\|\|July, 1942\| \|Raven’s Point\|\|1,900 Tons\|\|Gibraltar\|\|July, 1942\| \|Kaituna\|\|10,000 Tons\|\|Mersin\|\|July, 1943\| \|Meta\|\|1,600 Tons\|\|Gibraltar\|\|July, 1942\| \|Camerata\|\|4,900 Tons\|\|Gibraltar\|\|May, 1943\| \|Stanridge\|\|6,000 Tons\|\|Gibraltar\|\|Aug, 1943\| \|Queen Elizabeth\|\|32,000 Tons\|\|Alexandria\|\|Dec, 1941\| \|Valiant\|\|31,000 Tons\|\|Alexandria\|\|Dec, 1941\| \|Harmattan\|\|4,600 Tons\|\|Algiers\|\|Dec, 1942\| \|Jervis\|\|1,700 Tons\|\|Alexandria\|\|Dec, 1941\| \|Mahsud\|\|7,500 Tons\|\|Gibraltar\|\|May, 1943\| \|Fernplant\|\|7,000 Tons\|\|Iskenderun\|\|Aug, 1943\| \|Empire Centaur\|\|7,000 Tons\|\|Algiers\|\|Dec, 1942\| Italian frogmen were not only deadly, but also very ingenious in their methods of attack. Known as the “Floating Trojan Horse of Gibraltar”, Italian frogmen used an imaginative method of destroying enemy ships. Gibraltar was very tempting to the Italians for their safe shelter of British warships and allied merchant shipping. The Italian frogmen originally used a Spanish villa that was located 2 miles from Gibraltar. It was owned by an Italian officer married to a Spanish woman named Conchita Ramognino. This villa held the frogmen who would sneak out into the harbor and attack unsuspecting British warships. But this proved very difficult and costly. The harbor was very well protected by netting, patrol boats and search lights. Because of this difficulty, the Italians decided to use a battered Italian merchant ship docked across the bay of Gibraltar. It was the 4,995 ton Olterra. Italian frogmen secretly replaced the crew with divers and technicians and built a workshop to house, build and maintain human torpedoes. A door was then cut 6 feet below the surface to allow these 2-man human torpedoes to come and go undetected. Replacement torpedoes were shipped from Italy disguised as boiler tubes. When the Italian frogmen commenced their attacks on British warships from this location, it proved just as costly. Five out of six frogmen never returned. But when the Italians decided to attack the merchant shipping, which was less protected, they were rewarded with easy prey. Italian frogmen sank or damaged a total of 42,000 tons of Allied shipping.The British never did find out where these frogmen came from or where they gone. The feats of the Italian frogmen brought much envy and respect from the British. When the British decided to create its own naval assault units, the trainees placed pictures of 10th Light Flotilla on their walls for inspiration. “Everyone has the jitters, seeing objects swimming about at night, and hearing movements on ships’ bottoms. It must stop!” – Admiral Sir Andrew Cunningham, Commander in Chief of Britain’s Mediterranean Fleet.
It’s time to bring out that red dress, sweater, or hat you’ve been hiding in the back of the closet! Not only is February the month that hosts Valentine’s Day – it’s also American Heart Month and Friday, February 3, 2023, is National Wear Red Day. The annual Heart Association Red Day campaign raises money for cardiovascular disease research and hopes to inspire women to make lifestyle changes that can save lives and improve health. Heart disease and stroke cause 1 in 3 deaths among women each year – more than all cancers combined, according to the AHA. But the good news is that 80 percent of cardiac and stroke events may be prevented with education and action. Women can experience unique life events, including pregnancy and menopause, that can impact their risk for cardiovascular diseases. Because research shows that stress can impact health, it’s vital women learn how the mind-body connection influences both physical and mental well-being and find ways to improve both. Although menopause itself does not cause cardiovascular disease, this point in midlife is a time when risk factors for heart disease and stroke can accelerate, making it a crucial stage to focus on health. With greater education and lifestyle changes including more physical activity, a healthy diet, blood pressure management and stress control, the risk for cardiovascular disease in women can be significantly reduced. Untreated high blood pressure is known as a “silent killer”. According to Heart and Stroke Canada, half of women who have heart attacks have their symptoms go unrecognized. More than half of hypertension deaths are in women, and 57.6 percent of black females have high blood pressure – more than any other race or ethnicity. There are an estimated 4.1 million female stroke survivors today, but 57.5 percent of total stroke deaths are in women. Black women in their 50s may have more than triple the risk of stroke compared with white women of the same age, according to a 2019 study. A healthy lifestyle was found to lower this risk. Symptoms of Heart Attack in Women - Chest pain, but not always - Pain or pressure in the lower chest or upper abdomen - Jaw, neck or upper back pain - Nausea or vomiting - Shortness of breath - Extreme fatigue If you experience any of these signs or symptoms: - Dial 911 immediately, follow the operator’s instructions and get to a hospital immediately. - Don’t drive yourself to the hospital. - Stay as calm as possible and take deep, slow breaths while waiting for the emergency responders. Stroke Symptoms in Men and Women - Numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg - Trouble speaking or understanding speech - Vision problems - Trouble walking or a lack of coordination - Severe headache without a known cause Additional Stroke Symptoms in Women - General weakness - Disorientation and confusion or memory problems - Nausea or vomiting Source: American Heart Association Stroke and heart disease is the leading cause of premature death of Canadian women. Taking action immediately and getting quick stroke treatment can save lives and prevent disability.
People Who Eat More Cheese Are Thinner People Who Eat More Cheese Are Thinner And Healthier, According To Science Long Story Short New research has found that eating lots of cheese doesn’t raise cholesterol levels or body fat. Ahhh, good old cheese. On your pizza. In your burger. Stuffed between some bread with a lovely bit of pickle. Maybe even as part of a wider selection with some posh crackers. You just can’t go wrong with a bit of cheese. Well, except for the fact that it’s cranking up your cholesterol and clogging up your arteries all at once. Or so we thought, at least… Research conducted at University College Dublin will have cheese-lovers cramming Stilton into their excited faces in celebration. As it turns out, cheese might not be that bad for you. RELATED: Are High-Fat Foods Good For You? Researchers looked at the impact of dairy products on 1,500 people. They found that people who eat lots of the yellow stuff (or white or blue, depending on your palate) actually have a lower body mass index than those who eat less. It also found that people who consume the most dairy have a lower percentage of body fat, a smaller waist size and lower blood pressure. Also, people who ate low-fat dairy actually had higher cholesterol. This, of course, goes against current health guidelines that say foods high in saturated fats like cheese raise blood cholesterol – which can ultimately lead to heart diseases, strokes and other health problems. And it’s not the only study in recent months to claim that saturated fats could actually be good for us. However, it’s probably worth remembering the “everything in moderation” rule. And it’s not just about the foods, but lifestyle and eating habits. Lead researcher Dr Emma Feeney said: “The high consumers [of cheese], they had a significantly higher intake of saturated fat than the non-consumers and the low consumers, and yet there was no difference in their LDL Cholesterol levels. “We have to consider not just the nutrients themselves but also the matrix in which we are eating them in and what the overall dietary pattern. So not just about the food then, but the pattern of other foods we eat with them as well.” In other words, it’s good news for cheese-lovers, but don’t start grating extra cheese on your Domino’s just yet (well, any more extra than usual at least). Own The Conversation Ask The Big Question Are you as conscious about saturated fats in your diet? Drop This Fact One study has found evidence that cheese actually could help fight cardiovascular disease.