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Would you be willing to pay for DLC packs at this point?
ArchAngeL_777
May 11, 2018 10:19PM edited May 2018
I am talking about legitimate DLC packs that we are used to from EA DICE. For instance, if EA announced they would be releasing Clone Wars DLC Pack 1 in September with the following content:
Conquest or Supremacy mode added to the game for all planets
New planet Utapau with maps for all modes.
New planet Coruscant with maps for all modes.
New planet Felucia with maps for all modes.
Then they said the pack would be $14.99. Would you be willing to buy it?
My vote would be YES.
The free DLC promise went out the window with the loot crate revenue. There is no current revenue stream for the game. So I see no reason why we can't revert back to the DLC pack sales model of old. The pack sales would cover development cost.
If it does well enough, maybe they could line up packs through 2019 and sell a Season Pass. They could give us a couple more Clone Wars packs, a legacy pack from the 2015 game, a pack from Star Wars Rebels, maybe a pack from the new Resistance cartoon, and then a pack for Episode 9 after the movie comes out.
EDIT: when I say "maps for all modes", I mean BOTH large game modes and small game modes get new maps with each planet added. No leaving out large game modes like in the 2015 DLC packs. Starfighter Assault would get a new map where it makes sense for the planet, like Coruscant would obviously be perfect with the opening of Revenge of the Sith.
Post edited by ArchAngeL_777 on May 2018
WhiteMaceWindu69
It would have to be prequel/Clone Wars ( for me to buy )
PSN- CnastyOneTime
WhiteMaceWindu69 wrote: »
Yeah they would definitely have to lead off with Clone Wars. The Solo content would serve as our "Free DLC".
Evazan127
Of course I’d pay for dlc but I’m in love with a free dlc system.
EvazanJr wrote: »
As it turned out it wasn't really free. Sure you weren't required to pay for it, but the loot crates were going to finance it. Otherwise, we would just get small updates like this Solo announcement.
Solomacedaddy
It's Star Wars so I don't care if it's clone or original or Thrawn or even Emo.
If they said they were making a new DLC with at least 4 new maps, 4 new heroes, new weapons and at least 1 new not rehashed game mode (could dig some conquest) then the normal £19.99 wouldn't bother me. Potentially you could be talking months of playing until the next DLC.
That said, it cannot be any ole stuff and just because it has all of the above, doesn't mean it will be good, however, nearly every DLC i've bought for every BF game, has had something worth it be it one new class or a new map and rarely has a DLC been completely poop..
Those saying only clone wars, are you seriously saying if they brought out a fully fleshed out DLC with say Rebel heroes with some great maps and weapons and skills, you would say no? I'd question why you are still here and playing because for this game, any fully fleshed out content would bring people back in their droves. Me included
FourStringBass4
Yes I would pay for new content, but I'd have to know what it is in advance at this point.
Psy3d
For characters...YES. Never for cosmetics. If I ever see count Dooku as a official character...I have no reason to play anything else online.
-x-x- General Anakin Skywalker Vs Farming wanna be's in Yavin 4 galactic assault -x-x-
Solomacedaddy wrote: »
Yeah Clone Wars is the popular request at the moment, so I think it would be good to start there. But Rebels has a lot of great content. I could see the second DLC pack being Star Wars Rebels DLC Pack 1:
Grand Admiral Thrawn
New game mode
New planet Lothal with maps for all modes
New planet Atollon with maps for all modes
Depending on what they do with Clone Wars, Ahsoka Tano and Mandalore could be in another Rebels pack. Other heroes could include Sabine Wren with Darksaber, Kanan Jarrus, Grand Inquisitor, Rukh, Seventh Sister.
If there was Starfighter Assault content (maps in particular) in the pack, and I thought the price was reasonable for the amount of content, I'd buy.
Better album: Achtung Baby or The Joshua Tree?
Psy3d wrote: »
Yeah cosmetics would not be included. Those would be separate releases for the crystals or credits. So basically, it would be a secondary revenue stream.
Between the two, that should sustain substantial DLC content.
ArchAngeL_777 wrote: »
I hear you mate, but the problem is that these forums and Reddit and any other social media site are still a minority of a minorty, so just because clone wars is the thing most people on here want, doesn't mean that is what people who play this game want.
I think you would find most players of the game don't give a monkeys on the era, they just want big content.
Yes I agree, everyone has their favourite era or toon, but most just want to play Star Wars in all it's guises.
Clone Wars DLC won't be the thing that would bring back the masses, any Star Wars DLC will.
Put it this way, if Solo season had said it was 4 new heroes, 4 new maps, new weapons and a new mode (not rehashed stuff), do you think people would be thinking meh? Yes, the blinkered clone wars people would (blinkered in that's all you want to satisfy YOU), yet most people who bought this game would think yes, new content and just want new fun content to play with.
If it means I get new planets, Padme, large offline battle mode, and more trooper skins then yes. I mention Padme specifically because it sounds like Obi-Wan is eventually coming, Padme is like the next big Hero for the light side in the Prequels still missing.
If we got a huge clone wars season with 4heroes yes I would Buy it instantly without even thinking about it
Kernel_Cinders
For me it would depend on the amount of content included in the DLC.
I'm a fan of all Star Wars, so if it's a solid DLC, then yeah, I'd most likely buy it.
Awh heck nawl.
" If you're not with me, then you're my enemy."
I think you are underestimating how popular Clone Wars is even outside the circle of those that play this game. The crowd at Star Wars Celebration erupted when the Season 2 Rebels trailer revealed Captain Rex returning. Ahsoka Tano is a hugely popular character.
But for this game specifically, Clone Wars represents by far the largest amount of potential content for this game. There's nothing more to add from the Original Trilogy or even Sequel Trilogy at this point. We've already had one game full of Original Trilogy content, plus Rogue One DLC. The Prequel Trilogy movies alone include far more locations, heroes, skins, etc. When you add in the Clone Wars TV show, it's not even remotely a contest.
Star Wars Rebels is the only other option which could also bring fresh content as mentioned. Maybe the Star Wars Resistance cartoon will give something to go on too. I really don't think Solo is going to have enough to give us more than maybe 2 locations, some skins, and a couple new heroes.
tankertoad
I came here to say heck no. There's no way I'm giving them money whatsoever.
But then I read the content that you listed out and I'd pay $100 usd for that.
41st.org Founder "Where the Game is Winnable."
Nope, they made their bed, now they can lay in it.
They've already had my money, the content was promised to be free, I expect them to fully honour that.
Exactly! With the right content a DLC will do very well.
FourStringBass4 wrote: »
That should be a banner ad on this website.
tankertoad wrote: »
For the Season pass suggestion? Yeah I'd pay for that too. And when they add a planet with new maps, I mean maps supporting ALL game modes. Not just small maps like the 2015 DLC packs. BOTH large game modes and small game modes will get new maps per planet. Starfighter Assault would get a new map where it made sense for the planet.
I'm not underestimating how popular the clone wars is, but I think you're overestimating it's importance.
I went to the UK SW celebration and it was still the original era that got most of the people excited and the merch ( hate they word) was still mostly original stuff.
What I'm saying is that it's not clone wars that is what this game needs, it's any era content and if that's clone wars, great, but too many think it's clones or nothing.
I think with the millions of copies sold, it would be foolish to think clones is what the majority want considering in reality, clones the movies are mocked and IMO rightly so.
Except for Mace of course. Him and Fisto are the only good things out of the prequels
I think both of you make good discussion points.
But what the game needs is just a massive amount of content.
Along with the massive amount of bugs fixed.
And freaking matchmaking autobalance team Shuffle
Danxoln
Yes, but don't care either way
Landeaux2
May 12, 2018 12:08AM edited May 2018
They promised us a live service game. We paid full price for that promise. If they can’t deliver on their current promise, why would I pay them more money for DLC? You know what they say: fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me. I’m not in the business of giving people my money when they can’t deliver in the first place.
KazJim
Nope, it creates a 'two-speed' system, where players are locked out of content unless they pay for it - players move to DLC, 'vanilla' maps die...
I give you SWBF1 (2015) as evidence . . . .
Sure Original Trilogy is the most popular trilogy. It will always be. But again, we are talking about content for the game that can bring people back. What are you going to add from the Original Trilogy that isn't already in the game? Another Endor forest map? Another Hoth map? Tatooine? We've seen all that in the 2015 game. We've got those planets already in this game. It would just be variations of the same content, maybe better or maybe worse. There aren't any heroes to add anyone cares about.
If new content to play is what will bring people back, there's not a better place to get it than Clone Wars. That's why people are asking for it.
Landeaux2 wrote: »
As someone replied to me trying to be clever, technically they have given DLC and even if they release 1 skin a month, they're still fulfilling the agreement.
Now most reasonable people know what a DLC model is and what types of content it should have, however as I mentioned above, smarty pants posters are saying we are getting content.
So technically they are fulfilling they're promise, but if they said you still get free content, but you can pay for this other content, they're technically still doing what they promised but fudging it.
Sorry, the "technically" bit is because some of the defenders like to use that term as a last grasp effort.
Best scenario, all new maps and game modes are free, guns, heroes, skin's cost.
That would also cover the "DLC splits the playerbase rubbish that people trott out.
We said the same thing on Battlefront 1 and then simultaneously said we're going to buy Battlefront 2 anyway.
I feel that I got my money's worth out of the base game, in a sense. A lot of frustration. But I did play it for a few hundred.
It's fascinating to me that Disney worries so much about their brand and their look. You just won the Super Bowl where you going I'm going to Disney World! But with video games they just don't give a ....
I mean unless it's Angry Birds Star Wars or something.
I'm not going to sit here and lie and say that I won't buy Battlefront 3 if there is a such thing, which I don't think there will be. But I also know that I'm going to be very disappointed.
KazJim wrote: »
SWBF1 messed up by putting the DLC in it's own playlist. EA DICE has been doing DLC packs and season passes since Battlefield 3. It's never been an issue until SWBF1.
Call of Duty has been doing them since COD4 with no problems. Other games do them as well. It only splits the community when you have a game that only a small percentage of your player base are willing to buy the DLC. COD and Battlefield have never had that problem.
I 100% agree with you, but here's my thoughts on it. How can they fix the current game issues if they don't have the resources to do it? It's a catch-22 for DICE.
My overall opinion: DICE should put a DLC together with solid content to justify the price. With the revenue earned from it they can then use it to begin addressing some of the bugs, issues, and requests in a timely manner and patch the game as the additions/fixes are completed.
They promised us better communication, more frequent updates, more frequent content drops, the community would be instrumental in the DLC we do get, etc.
They’ve fell well short of all promises so far. We thought this game would be way better and correct the mistakes of the last game and it hasn’t.
If they don’t get serious about righting the ship very soon then there will be on battlefront 3 for me
Kernel_Cinders wrote: »
Yeah that's my same motivation behind this thread. Get the revenue stream going so they can start churning out more bug fixes and more DLC packs.
And people giving them free passes for what we have received so far are the reason why we are in the current predicament.
Nice exchange. Sincerely.
I know for certain that 90% of the team has moved on to Battlefront 5. There's literally no way to "save" this game. Same thing happened in the last game but apparently they had developed a significant ly more content before they left to Battlefield 1.
I personally think that this concept that the MTX was going to pay for content is grossly overstated. If it did extremely well they would have kept it going trying to push even more in MTX.
That's what's missing in this discussion and debate. Successful MTX means more M TX.
I know a lot of people have moved on from Star Wars Battlefront II and have no intention of coming back. At this point the juice is not worth the squeeze. Which really sucks.
I just wanted freaking private servers to play with my clan.
@dada_shift @Trooper8059 @Webn8tr_ @BucksawBoushh @DarthJ
It's a good idea across the whole board but can DICE do it without EA breathing down their necks on how they have to do it. > <
Take the leash off of DICE and let them do their thing. Nothing to lose and everything to gain. it's a win-win imho.
I hear your passion mate and I don't fuly disagree with what you're saying, but I could counter with IG88, Old Ben, Dengar, Lobot (who )Tarkin,Jawas,Tuskens,Wedge, General Veers, Alderaan, Death Star 2 , Super Star Destroyer, dagobah.
The OT still has plenty.
We're both want more content, I'm saying any including Clone wars is what's needed, but don't get hung up on just clones as we really don't know what people want just these forums and ohers shouting clones is what most want.
Back in the 80s people left and started their own company over and over. That's how you get all the A names. Atari went to Activision on and on. They kept the A.
Dice sold themselves to Electronic Arts. If they wanted to make the games they want to make they should not have done that. But they're killing it on Battlefield. Battlefield 5 is probably going to be the largest multiplayer on Console of all time. So they're just fine
Yep, which is why DICE should have a lot more control of SWBF2 then they currently have.
I am sure Disney has had a hand in it as well, but overall EA shouldn't be managing the Star Wars IP anymore.
They had their chance years ago until Lucas yanked them back, but then Lucas sells to Disney and what does Disney do? Gives it right back to EA. It's so unbelievably sad but they just call it "good business." *rolls eyes*
ErrmagherdMTX
I'd be for it and buy in a heartbeat, as long as it's similar to battlefields premium. $50 for 4 to 5 guaranteed dlc with 4-6 maps, 2-4 heros, and 2-4 weapons heck yeah. The best part about that model as well is they tell you in advance what's being planned and what to expect.
There have been games that give some free and have paid season pass. You guys still get to enjoy your free measly one map and two skins every 4-6 months and we get to enjoy the great content we paid for, win win.
Nope mate, I and others didn't give them a free pass otherwise they would have kept the original plan and made us grind or pay. It's because we said no we're in this situation and it's not our fault but EAs.
I never had a problem with paid DLCs for over 10 years, but SWBF1 decided to change the rules buy selling you a rushed content light game where if you wanted the full game you HAD to purchase the DLCs. That's where people also said no, so this new free DLC model that EA tried was never going to work without some income.
They failed. Simple as that. Check out Titan Fall 2. Same thing.
You pay for what you get. AAA titles (Jim Sterling voice) are a rip off mostly ( GOW and The Last of Us excluded)and yes, £60 should include all future content, however we as consumers need to make the choice of not buying if we don't think out £60 + isn't worth it
Don't pre order and wait for reviews
Lots of games are worth the price of the game and the extra cost for DLC. Witcher 3 and Nioh I had no problems paying for the DLC. Why should BF2 be any different if they make good quality DLC?
May 12, 2018 1:07AM edited May 2018
However, a season pass isn’t always necessary to profit. See fortnite for example.
This one is on EA, not the consumers.
May 12, 2018 1:09AM
I hate to tell you, but we now realize that DLC was never actually free. LOL
It was all dependent on selling loot crates. When they announced free DLC, the first thing I said to myself was "So is this EA genuinely reaching into their pockets? How are they financing that?" Then the loot crates showed up. So after getting no loot crate revenue, we aren't getting anything of significance. Just a bunch of reskins of the 2015 game so far.
I paid for the launch game too, and I feel like I got my money's worth. I've played the single player and it's DLC. I've put time into arcade. I've put a decent amount of time into multiplayer. I don't feel ripped off at this point, but I also feel like there's more that needs to be done. There's a lot of potential here to make a truly good game, but that won't come for free.
Aye mate, but Fortnite is free and thus I put it in the freemium category that you can play without spending a penny and you know all future content is free.
Also Fortnite is fun. Maybe not to you me and others ( I think it is good TBH) but to millions it is and when you're having fun on a FTP game you and more willing to spend cash hence the millions it made.
If this game was fun from day 1 without all the bull, fully fleshed out, and a seasons pass/ individual DLCS roadmap explaining what you get in advance, with all maps free, we wouldn't be in this situation as the game itself isn't terrible, it's just meh.
It's another debate about FTP games and costs of skin's and exploiting the consumer but you cannot compare these models even though one did get it right and one has/had a £60+ price tag attached to it but not much after.
AsariSith
Really?. No.
You are going to make me list it out aren't you? lol
We have the Death Star in this game and had it in the 2015 game. One is as good as the other. Alderaan was only shown in the prequel era stuff. I don't think it's appearance in A New Hope would make for a good map...maybe starfighter assault in the asteroids LOL!!!
So fine, how is your original trilogy list going to stack up against: Obi-Wan, Padme, Qui-Gon Jinn, Mace Windu, Ahsoka Tano, Anakin Skywalker, Ki Adi Mundi, Shaak Ti, Luminara Unduli, Barris Offee, Aayla Secura, Quinlan Vos, Captain Rex, Commander Wolffe, Commander Cody, Count Dooku, Mother Talzin, General Grievous, Pong Krell, Jango Fett, Asajj Ventress, Cad Bane, Embo, Sugi, Latts Razzi, Savage Oppress, Pre Viszla...need I really go on? lol
Planets? In addition to the three in my original post: Umbara, Mustafar, Ryloth, Geonosis, Polis Massan, Mandalore, Florrum, Nal Hutta, Mon Calamari, Dathomir, Onderon, Crystophsis, and more.
Also, it won't just be clones vs droids on all these planets. For instance, on Umbara it was the Umbaran army the Clones were fighting. On Mandalore it would be the Mandalorian Death Watch vs Clones. On Mon Calamari, the Mon Cal and others were involved. On Dathomir, it would be Droids vs the Nightsisters. Onderon it was the Onderon freedom fighters vs droids, etc.
An avalanche of content! Too much!!! Lol Seriously, they could make DLC packs for years out of Clone Wars without recycling heroes or planets.
This is a good thread and good discussion.
However it’s a game that makes way more money than BF2. It’s popular. They listen to their community. It’s the most streamed and watched game on twitch. They make their money through skins. They pump out content and updates weekly. A free game is embarrassing a paid game and that speaks volumes.
@ArchAngeL_777
As an old guy that grew up on the original trilogy I wasn't as big on the prequels. But I recently watched them and I can tell you I completely agree there is so so so so much content there.
Worlds upon worlds.
I just want fun gameplay. I want more role-playing elements. I want non-linear play.
I want it in Star Wars.
And I don't care if it's on Hoth Taatoine utapau or Alderaan.
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Tag Archives INTERVIEWS
MEETING THE BEATLES : EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH HOWIE CASEY
By Beatles Magazine Posted on Friday, June 1, 2018 In INTERVIEWS 2 INTERVIEWS 11
Howie Casey was born in Liverpool, and delved into rock and roll at the same time as our legendary lads. If you’re asked on a quiz show which band had the first LP released who hails from the city, it isn’t the Beatles. It would be Howie Casey and the Seniors. Besides Sir Paul, Howie would play sax for the likes of Ringo, Fats Domino, Chuck Berry, Carl Perkins, The Who, and Marc Bolan. His signature sax riffs would punctuate many a Macca tune, and his sax provided the air that Wings would soar across the globe on.
Producer Tony Visconti led Casey to Paul McCartney to play on the classic 1973 album, Band on the Run. Howie would join Wings for the 66-show Wings Over the World Tour in 1975-1976. Casey would remain with Wings until McCartney’s Japanese tour was canceled at the beginning of 1980. Casey stopped in to talk with Beatles Magazine about his storied career, and his times with the cute Beatle.
Beatles Magazine: What comes to your mind when we mention Howie Casey and the Seniors?
Howie Casey: The band first started out as Derry and the Seniors in 1958 and we changed the name to Howie Casey and the Seniors when Freddie Starr joined around 1961. I have very fond memories of my band The Seniors we had a lot of fun together playing all the venues around the Liverpool, Manchester and the North West of England before we got the recording contract with Fontana Records. The two front singers, Derry Wilkie, and Freddie Starr were great showmen,as you probably know Freddie went on to become one of the best comedians this country has produced. The rest of the band, Brian ‘Griff’ Griffiths on guitar at 17 was a great talent, he showed people like John Lennon, and George Harrison how to play certain licks they couldn’t figure out. Phil ‘Spread’ Whitehead on bass was solid as a rock, and on drums Frank Wibberly was for me the best drummer around at that time. Paul told me in later years, he and John used to come to our gigs they loved the band. We played The Cavern on a regular basis at lunchtime and evening sessions, sometimes if Frank our drummer wasn’t able to make a lunchtime gig, I’d call on either Johnny Hutchinson or Ringo Starr to step in for him. We also played The Iron Door, The Casbah, Tower Ballroom, The Holyoake, Blair Hall, Wilson Hall, The Rialto, basically all the gigs available at that time.
BM: The Seniors were the first band from Liverpool to have an ‘LP’, can you tell us about that record?
Howie Casey: We got the contract with Fontana through Freddie, he had been offered a solo recording deal but wanted the band as well. So Fontana said okay but we’d have to do an audition. So we all went down to London in our old van and did the audition, they liked what they heard and we got the contract on the proviso we wrote Twist songs, for, Twist at the Top. That was the in dance craze. Basically what we did was write rock songs and insert the word ‘twist’ instead of ‘rock’. We went back to London and recorded the whole album plus extra material in an afternoon, totally live no drop-ins or overdubs. It does show on the album, but we were naive and were just chuffed to have recorded. Our record was played on Radio Luxembourg and other stations, and we got a London based agent who booked us round London and the South and of course we still gigged up North.
BM: Tony Visconti was producing Marc Bolan, and guided you to work with Paul McCartney. How did that come about, and which records did you play on?
Howie Casey: By the time I worked with Tony Visconti, I had moved to London. He booked me to play on some tracks, he had a small studio in his house. I think I played on some of Mary Hopkin’s tracks, and later for Marc Bolan (T. Rex ), most notably 20th Century Boy. On that Tony said “Howie I’d like you to freak out on your sax at the end of the track” which I did lots of harmonics etc. I can’t remember all the tracks I worked on, but I played on the album, ‘Tanx‘ I also got to tour With Marc a few times. I was doing quite a lot of session work and playing with lots of different bands, when I got a call from MPL (Paul’s office), asking would I be available to do some tracks on ‘Wings’ new album, ‘Band on the Run‘. I sure was! That came through Tony’s recommendation, and I’ll always be grateful to him.
BM: What was it like going on tour with Wings, and having an former Beatle as your front-man?
Howie Casey: After playing on ‘Band on the Run‘, where I played on ‘Jet’, ‘Bluebird’, and ‘Mrs Vanderbilt’, I just carried on doing my gigs and sessions. Paul and ‘Wings’ had done another album, ‘Venus and Mars‘ over in America, and I thought ” Oh well that’s the end of that”. Then I got a call from Alan Crowder at MPL saying Paul has asked if I would be interested in playing on their next world tour; “Yup I’ll have some of that” I said. Working with Paul, we both went back a long way and we hadn’t seen one another since the old days in Liverpool, and Hamburg. That was no problem we got along very well, indeed, lots of common ground.
The T our was terrific to be on, we were looked after so well, the music and partying was great a brilliant outfit to be with. The other members of the band were so easy to get on with, real nice people. I also played on ‘Wings at the Speed of Sound‘, ‘Wings Over America‘ ‘Back to the Egg‘ the ‘Rockestra‘ sessions, and ‘Rock for Kampuchea‘.
BM: What artists inspired you early on, and what led you to the sax?
Howie Casey: Back in the 50’s I was listening to people like Little Richard, who for my money had the best voice in R&R and of course his great sax players like Lee Allan, Herb Hardesty. My favourite sax man was Plas Johnson, he played the original ‘Pink Panther’ theme; fabulous sound. Ray Charles was another favourite and his wonderful sax man David ‘Fathead’ Newman. Etta James was a knockout singer as well, there were so many great people around at that time, brilliant musicians and singers that influenced us all in those days.
BM: Did you know any of the Beatles growing up in Liverpool?
Howie Casey: I first met up with ‘The Beatles’ or ‘The Silver Beatles’ as they were known, at the Larry Parnes auditions at ‘The Wyvern Club’ organized by Alan Williams. Then after that in 1960, ‘The Seniors’ got the gig in Hamburg, Germany at ‘The Kaiserkeller Club’. We’d been there for a while doing great business when Alan wrote to me saying he was sending over ‘The Beatles’ to play in a small bar just up the road from were we were. I wasn’t too happy about this having seen them at the Parnes auditions and we weren’t impressed. We thought they would mess up the scene. As it turned out, when we heard them playing at ‘The Indra’ they’d come on an absolute storm. We all became great friends, we showed them the best cheap places to eat and drink. Many times when they finished their gig they would come to ‘The Kaiserkeller’ and get up and jam with us. Back in Liverpool we played lots gigs on the same bill as them. The manager of the club decided that instead of us playing 45 minutes and breaking for 15 minutes he would take Stuart Sutcliffe from ‘The Beatles’ and split ‘The Seniors’ into two bands so as there were no breaks in the live music. We weren’t best pleased and neither were ‘The Beatles’, but we were dealing with gangsters and you didn’t argue, or else. So the band was split into a 4 piece and a 3 piece. The quartet was Jeff Wallington on drums, Stan Foster on piano, Stuart Sutcliffe on bass, Derry Wilkie on vocals, and me on sax. The trio was Brian ‘Griff’ Griffiths on guitar/ bass, Billy Hughes on guitar/ vocals, and a good German drummer who’s name escapes me. I often wondered if losing Stuart at that time, and Paul having to play bass lines on his guitar, if had influenced him to take up bass as his main instrument.
BM: Do any memories stand out while recording Rockestra Theme, with Paul McCartney, and so many legendary musicians?
Howie Casey: The ‘ Rockestra‘ recording sessions were pretty amazing, all those big names from the Rock industry getting to play together, there weren’t any huge ego’s on show, no ‘prima donnas’ , or tantrums, I think a few were a little nervous if the truth be known, after all they’d come to play with ‘the Man’, Paul McCartney. Of course I felt okay about it I was playing with ‘Wings’ and had worked with a lot of those people. But it was an honour to be there.
BM: Tommy and Quadrophenia are two classic albums by the Who that you played on. Do any memories stand out from the studio when you played on those tracks?
Howie Casey: I played on both the albums ‘Tommy‘ and ‘Quadrophenia‘ I got the call because I’d played on a couple of John Entwistle albums, and also done some stuff for Pete Townsend. All I remember is two tracks I did ‘Eyesight for the Blind’ and ‘Acid Queen’, other tracks if I did any I can’t remember. Because I’d done those sessions when they decided to use a horn section on tour, I got the call and put a three piece section together. It went very well although Roger Daltrey took some convincing, on the first rehearsal when he walked in he looked us on our riser behind John’s amps and said ” What are they for?” -Charming!!
BM: When Paul McCartney was busted for pot, and the 1980 tour was canceled, what went through your mind?
Howie Casey: When we arrived in Japan for the tour, the Horn section of Tony Dorsey, Thaddeus Richard, Steve Howard, and myself all got together in my hotel room, to have a drink and I handed out cigars I’d bought at duty free. We’d just lit up and were having a laugh when Alan Crowder walked in I offered him a drink and a cigar, which he turned down, which was very unusual for Alan, I said,” What’s the matter Al”? He said ” Paul’s in jail”, and we all thought he was taking the mickey as usual, but he wasn’t laughing. Then he told us what had happened. We were shocked, but said, hey it’s okay the powers that be will sort this out. It didn’t happen like that, we were told to be ready to leave if they could get Paul out. There was a possible seven year sentence if not, so either way we were going home, no tour! To say the least we were pissed off, we’d just negotiated a better deal for ourselves, so this was a big blow for us. Plus the whole crew were stunned, Linda and the rest of the band were in pieces. Of course, Paul did get out and we were told get packed and off to the airport. Paul was brought to the plane and put into the cheap seats with the rest of us, and off we flew. He was of course moved up to first class once the plane took off. The drag was, I think, was that it heralded the end of that line up of ‘Wings‘. A damn shame, as that was one tight band. Thing is we were told dope was easily available in Japan anyway. So there was no need to put in the luggage. Just forgetfulness? Maybe!!
BM: Can you tell us about the record, Twist at the Top, and where fans can get a copy?
Howie Casey: To be honest I don’t know were you can get a copy of ‘Twist at the Top‘ I think it’s a record collectors item, I don’t have an original copy myself.
BM: Where are you currently playing, and where can fans catch up with you? Any other news?
Howie Casey: These days I still play even at my age, which will be 81 in July this year, I have a 12 piece band called ‘Beatles with Wings‘ obviously you can see what type of music we play. Also, I’ve been playing with some old friends in a group called ‘Chas and Dave‘, and the odd session now and again, plus ‘Solo’ and ‘Duo’ gigs.
http://online.fliphtml5.com/equbk/kfxe/
https://www.facebook.com/beatleswithwings/
By Bob Wilson
GEOFF EMERICK TALKED WITH BEATLES MAGAZINE
By Beatles Magazine Posted on Thursday, November 2, 2017 Tuesday, November 14, 2017 In BEATLES MAGAZINE, GEOFF EMERICK, THE BEATLES 0 BEATLES MAGAZINE, INTERVIEWS 44
Geoff Emerick became an assistant engineer at the legendary Abbey Road Studios in 1962 at age fifteen, and was present as a new band called the Beatles recorded their first songs. He later worked with the Beatles as they recorded their singles “She Loves You” and “I Want to Hold Your Hand,” the songs that would propel them to international superstardom. In 1964 he would witness the transformation of this young and playful group from Liverpool into professional, polished musicians as they put to tape classic songs such as “Eight Days A Week” and “I Feel Fine.”
Then, in 1966, at age nineteen, Geoff Emerick became the Beatles’ chief engineer, the man responsible for their distinctive sound as they recorded the classic album Revolver, in which they pioneered innovative recording techniques that changed the course of rock history. Emerick would also engineer the monumental Sgt. Pepper and Abbey Road albums, considered by many the greatest rock recordings of all time.
Geoff Emerick was very kind. He talked with ‘BEATLES MAGAZINE’ about The Beatles of course, and he said:
Geoff Emerick: “I had the pleasure and responsibility of working with The Beatles on so many of their recordings. In fact I was present in the recording studio for their very first session ever.
So you can trust I know good Beatles content when I come across it. If you google The Beatles you’ll bring up such a myriad of websites, you could spend a lot of time trying to find one that’s truly worthy of your attention.
I can direct you to a very good one indeed. Beatles Magazine has content that I enjoy myself and can recommend to every Beatles fan and aficionado.”
BM: Thank you so much Geoff.
Visit the website: www.emerickbeats.com
On Facebook: www.facebook.com/officialgeoffemerick
On Twitter: @geoffemerick
“HERE, THERE AND EVERYWHERE” By Geoff Emerick … Here
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH LESLIE CAVENDISH… THE STORY OF THE BEATLES’HAIRDRESSER WHO DEFINED AN ERA
By Beatles Magazine Posted on Sunday, August 6, 2017 Monday, August 7, 2017 In BEATLES MAGAZINE, INTERVIEWS, LESLIE CAVENDISH 0 BEATLES MAGAZINE, INTERVIEWS 17
Leslie Cavendish was born in East London and grew up in a large Jewish family in Burnt Oak, North London. He was apprenticed to Vidal Sassoon in 1962, becoming a stylist in his own right three years later. He became Paul McCartney’s private hairdresser in 1966, and soon began to work on the image of all four Beatles, at the Apple offices and in their recording studios, and was even invited along as a friend and participant on the Magical Mystery Tour. In 1967, he opened his own salon, backed by Apple and the Beatles, at 161 King’s Road, Chelsea.
We talk with Leslie about his time with The Beatles, Jane Asher, his upcoming book release and more…
How did you get interested in hairdressing ?
I got interested in hairdressing because when I was 15yrs I thought that like everybody else that I would like to be a footballer but although i was pretty good as a defender i wasnt good enough.
One day I went to meet my mum at the local hairdressers and outside the shop was a flashy American car.When i walked into the salon the owner whose car was parked outside was surrounded by women.and i thought straight away what a good working environment to be in.
My best friend lawrence who also left school 6 months before me and also wanted to be a footballer told me that he was going to do an apprenticeship as a hairdresser .So i thought if its good enough for him to do it I will as well.We are still best friends to this day.
Where did you learn your job ?
I started my apprenticeship at Vidal Sassoon’s salon in London’s Bond St.at the age of 15yrs.
I then went as a junior(apprentice) to Vidals new salon at the Grosvenor House hotel in London’s Park Lane.
My apprenticeship was for 3 years but i became a qualified junior stylist after two and half years.
Before you were accepted as a SASSOON stylist at his salon you had to become a junior to Mr Vidal himself and when i was asked i knew i would be staying.
Many celebrities attended your hair salon , including Jane Asher . Please , tell us about your meeting with Jane Asher and your impressions when you first saw Paul McCartney afterwards
I used to wash Janes hair when she went to her stylist Roger and because her hair was very long and thick I would spend 1 hour blow drying it so when i became a stylist i used to style her hair (not wash) whenever Roger couldn’t do it because i knew how she would like it.
Rogers biggest mistake was that had he not refused to do her hair on that saturday morning i wouldnt be telling you this story.
In a chapter in my book The title is “Almost the Pete Best of the Hairdressing World” and that will explain how I nearly lost out on cutting Paul McCartney and the other beatles.
When i went around to Paul’s london house for the first time and met him i was feeling quite nervous but I made sure he didnt know it and when he opened the door to the house which i didnt expect he said in a very relaxed way “Jane said you’re coming over to cut me barnet(cockney rhyme for hair (barnet fair)” .
That put me at ease straight away and the rest is history.
How did you become Beatles official hairdresser ?
After cutting Pauls hair in October 1966 I was asked to go to Apple offices which had just been formed and there I met Neil Aspinall who organised my payment and while i was there he asked me to cut his hair.
Then Derek Taylor became another client and it was he (thanks Derek) who introduced me to the other beatles and thats when i became the “Beatles official hairdresser”
Did the Beatles request an special haircut ? Or did you suggest some hairstyle ?
They never requested any special hairstyle while I cut their hair it was always what their mood was which dictated their hair (let it be ) album is a perfect example.
I did cut Pauls hair very short for a reason and in the press they said “The man who made Paul a skinhead”
but read the book to find out more!
Maureen was Ringo s hairdresser . Did you ever cut Ringo s hair ?
Yes I cut Ringos hair on a few occasions but most of the time Maureen did it.
I was asked to go to the film studio to style his hair when he was making the film (Magic Christian) and he did occasionally come to the salon in Chelsea.
Do you remember any other special customer at your hair salon ?
Keith moon (The Who) The Bee gees, Apple recording artists (Jackie lomax/James Taylor etc) Bob weir(Grateful Dead) Tony Curtis (film actor) Suzanna Leigh (co/star with Elvis in “Paradise Hawaiian style)
James Hunt (formula 1 World champion) Dave Clark 5 (DC5) Peter Asher ,Graham Nash (CSN) Linda McCartney, Ashton .Gardner and Dyke and many more bands.
How was your relationship with the Beatles after their break up ?
My own personal relationship with them was ok.
The difference was that I saw more of Paul because he was at his home and wasn’t going into the Apple office.
John was spending more time with Yoko and the other two where doing there own thing so I didnt see much more of them after that except if Derek or Neil would call me to do there hair.
Which one is your favorite Beatles song ? And which one is your favorite LP ?
I have two so I have a Double A side. “And I Love her” and “Things we said today”, and my album:
A Hard Day Night LP.
Paul McCartney, Leslie Cavendish and crew waiting for the Magical Mystery Tour bus, 1967.
What was your first reaction when you received the news of Lennon s murder and Harrison s death ?
John and George’s death made me feel numb because I remembered the times i had spent with both of them.
George at the salon in the Kings rd where i cut his hair and the MMT coach trip that we were all on.
As a Beatle fan I couldnt believe that someone could murder John and also George was attacked at his home and then died of cancer a few years later. Can you imagine if they were still with us
Please tell us about your soon to be published autobiographical book
My book is about my journey through the sixties and the magical journey I was on with the help of The Beatles
The stories of how I made Paul a skinhead/The hells angels episode/MMT journey/Beatles recording at abbey Rd and obla di obla da evening and much more to tell.
Photo: Apple Tailoring at 161 Kings Road. Leslie Cavendish’s hair salon was in the basement.
Leslie, tell us about your VIP Beatles tour in London
I go to Places where other Beatle guides cant take you because they only show you the outside..
With me i will tell you what went on inside the Apple offices/Abbey Rd and MMT because I was there.
my website will tell you the tours that I do Beatles Hairdresser Official Site Home page
Are you going to be at the next International Beatles week in Liverpool ?
Yes I have been asked to be a guest speaker at “International Beatles Week” at the Adelphi hotel on the sunday 27th August.
I will also be doing book signings at Waterstones/Beatles story museum and Penny Lane Project .
Please look at my website or facebook for times of the events.
Leslie, thank you very much for your time and the interview, Is there something you want to add to all the Beatles fans around the world?
I am so glad that the Beatles music is still giving everyone from all parts of the world the recognition that they deserve.We thought at the time it was special but to think they are still popular after all these years make them SUPER SPECIAL. I know that if all The Beatles were on stage right now they would say to their fans a big THANKYOU and I am saying that this interview is “From me to You “
Thank you BEATLES MAGAZINE, this magazine is for ALL BEATLE FANS please make sure you read it because if you don’t you will miss out on interviews like mine and many other people connected to the WORLD OF THE FAB 4.
Thank you very much again Leslie for this interview !
The Cutting Edge: The Story of the Beatles’ Hairdresser Who Defined an Era, will be published on 24 August 2017.
PRE-ORDER … HERE
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH LESLIE CAVENDISH… THIS WEEKEND
By Beatles Magazine Posted on Monday, July 31, 2017 In BEATLES MAGAZINE, INTERVIEWS, LESLIE CAVENDISH 0 BEATLES MAGAZINE, INTERVIEWS 10
Don´t miss our Exclusive Interview with LESLIE CAVENDISH, the Beatles’ Hairdresser Who Defined an Era… this weekend on @BEATLESMAGAZINE
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Becky Kraemer
← Grammar be damned
More than This →
June 26, 2012 · 12:19 am
I’ve been working on this for more than two years. It’s not that it’s been hard to make, it’s just been hard to find the time. The last six months with a newborn has meant that any chunk of my uninterrupted time longer than 30 minutes has been devoted to sleeping.
This bird, a turkey, specifically, is for a little boy, my nephew, to commemorate his birthday, and I’m sure in 50 years it will be as obsolete and crazy as doilies on arm rests and doo wop are today.
And maybe he may never care about it, but I don’t mind. I love him, I love the crazy jazzy Picasso bird drawing my husband made, and I loved listening to podcast after podcast of Sound Opinions while I did the work.
Filed under Pursuits
3 responses to “Cross Stitch”
Kitty Florey
As someone who also loves embroidering — in my case, at least as an adult, mostly needlepoint — I enjoyed this post. It’s a spectacular turkey — but it doesn’t look like cross-stitch to me, at least in this picture. It’s much more free-form — ??
I’m in the process of making needlepoint Christmas stockings for my three young grandchildren with their names on them. Two of them have VERY LONG NAMES. I hope I get them done by the time they go off to college….
BonjourBirdlet
You’re right, it isn’t cross stitch but something more free form. I always just associate any kind of sewing I do using a hoop to be cross stitch because that’s what I learned first!
I always think I’m going to be one of those people who just picks up her sewing project every few days when there is “nothing to do,” but it ends up taking me years before I complete something. Oh well. At least we’re doing it, even if it’s in fits and spurts, right?
Yes, but when I do pick it up I can sometimes get obsessive and become impervious to all else. When I look up, two hours have gone by. But of course I’ve still only progressed about an inch….
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The little bookshelf full of tacos!
Meditation on a Pencil Sharpener
Zolar’s Encyclopedia & Dictionary of Dreams
Sir Walter Scott’s Book I Like to Hold
Becky Kraemer ·
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4501 State Rd , Drexel Hill PA 19026
Edward H. Bedrossian, Jr. M.D. F.A.C.S.
Upper & Lower Eyelid Lift (Blepharoplasty)
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Production-Revenge of the Sith
Three years after the Clone Wars, Anakin and Obi-Wan are tracking down General Grevious in attempt to rescue the kidnapped Chancellor. Successful, the Jedi retreat back to the temple where Anakin is met by his love Padme, who is pregnant with their twins. Order 66 is given out by the Chancellor informing clone troopers to detroy all of the Jedi. Decieved by Palpatine, Anakin turns to the dark side and is confronted by his master, Obi-wan. They battle on Mustufar where Anakin is defeated but kept alive by Darth Sidious where he is then reborn as Darth Vader, and concluding Anakin’s path the dark side of the force. Padme Amidalla dies giving birth to her and Anakin’s twins, Luke and Leia.
Director-George Lucas
Cast-Hayden Christensen, Natalie Portman, Ewan McGregor, Samuel L Jackson
Music-John Williams
Oscars-Nominated Best Achievement in Make Up, Dave Elsey, Nikki Gooley.
Medium-Colored Pencil on Rives BFK paper
Dimensions-24″x36″
Tale as old as time…
“Imagine a king who fights his own battles, wouldn’t that be a site to see”…Achilles Synopsis- It’s the late Bronze age, 1250 BC. The Trojan Princes’ affair with Helen, Queen of Sparta, elevates to her leaving her husband, Menelaus, and traveling back to Troy with her new Prince. Angered by her betrayal, Menelaus convinces Agamemnon […]
Production-King Kong Synopsis- In 1933, a movie producer sends his cast and crew to Skull Island where they encounter a giant ape, Kong. There Kong falls in love with the leading lady Ann Darrow. Director-Peter Jackson. Cast-Naomi Watts, Jack Black, and Adrien Brody. Oscars -Best Acievement in Sound Editing, Mike Hopkins, Ethan Van der Ryn. […]
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Management of anaphylaxis in schools: Evaluation of an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen®) use by school personnel and comparison of two approaches of soliciting participation
Nha Uyen Nguyen Luu1,2,
Lisa Cicutto3,
Lianne Soller1,
Lawrence Joseph1,4,
Susan Waserman5,
Yvan St-Pierre4 &
Ann Clarke4,6
Allergy, Asthma & Clinical Immunology volume 8, Article number: 4 (2012) Cite this article
There has been no large study characterizing selection bias in allergy and evaluating school personnel’s ability to use an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen®). Our objective was to determine if the consent process introduces selection bias by comparing 2 methods of soliciting participation of school personnel in a study evaluating their ability to demonstrate the EpiPen®.
School personnel from randomly selected schools in Quebec were approached using a 1) partial or 2) full disclosure approach and were assessed on their ability to use the EpiPen® and identify anaphylaxis.
343 school personnel participated. In the full disclosure group, the participation rate was lower: 21.9% (95%CI, 19.0%-25.2%) versus 40.7% (95%CI, 36.1%-45.3%), but more participants achieved a perfect score: 26.3% (95%CI, 19.6%-33.9%) versus 15.8% (95%CI, 10.8%-21.8%), and identified 3 signs of anaphylaxis: 71.8% (95%CI, 64.0%-78.7%) versus 55.6% (95%CI, 48.2%-62.9%).
Selection bias is suspected as school personnel who were fully informed of the purpose of the assessment were less likely to participate; those who participated among the fully informed were more likely to earn perfect scores and identify anaphylaxis. As the process of consent can influence participation and bias outcomes, researchers and Ethics Boards need to consider conditions under which studies can proceed without full consent. Despite training, school personnel perform poorly when asked to demonstrate the EpiPen®.
Food allergy is a serious condition affecting 3.9% of children in the United States [1], and can lead to systemic life-threatening symptoms or anaphylaxis [2]. There is currently no well-established curative treatment for food allergy and management relies on avoidance and therapy with epinephrine for reactions caused by accidental exposures [3]. We and others have shown that despite increasing societal awareness of the potentially fatal consequences of food allergy, accidental exposures continue to occur [4–8] and about 10% of fatal food-associated anaphylactic reactions take place in school [9, 10]. As school represents a situation where parents must rely on other caregivers to respond to a severe allergic reaction, school personnel must be able to recognize anaphylaxis and know how to administer epinephrine using an auto-injector device such as the EpiPen® [11]. A delay in epinephrine administration substantially increases the risk for fatality [10, 12, 13].
Previous research has shown that school personnel are not well prepared to recognize and treat food-induced allergic reactions and anaphylaxis [14, 15]. However, there has not been any large study evaluating the ability of school personnel to administer an epinephrine auto-injector such as the EpiPen®. A brief report in 2005 showed that only 12% of 100 elementary school teachers in Ontario, Canada correctly demonstrated the use of the EpiPen® [16]. However, in a recent electronic survey of 724 school teachers in Canada (published only in abstract form), 82% of the respondents reported receiving training from health professionals or parents in using the auto-injector and 80% claimed they were confident in using it [17]. In contrast to the Ontario experience, these teachers were not actually evaluated on their ability to use the auto-injector. As part of a Canadian-wide study examining the influence of different provincial policies on the recognition and management of anaphylaxis in schools [18], our research team assessed the ability of school personnel in Quebec to demonstrate the EpiPen® technique and identify symptoms of anaphylaxis. In the other Canadian provinces, school personnel were fully informed of the purpose of the assessment (i.e., full disclosure). However, it was anticipated that such full disclosure may result in volunteer or consent bias, a form of selection bias where those who volunteer or consent to participate differ from those who do not, leading to an incorrect assessment of performance capacity [19–21]. In Quebec, we explored the potential role of volunteer or consent bias by approaching school personnel in 2 different ways: 1. A partial disclosure approach in which school personnel were not notified in advance of the EpiPen® demonstration and 2. A full disclosure approach in which school personnel were informed in advance that they would have to demonstrate the use of the EpiPen®. In this manuscript, the participation rates and outcomes of these 2 groups were compared to determine if a volunteer or a consent bias was present.
Selection of participants
In 2008, 2 school boards out of 10 within 1 h of traveling time from downtown Montreal, Quebec were randomly selected. Initially, 20 schools, including elementary (kindergarten – grade 6) and secondary schools (grade 7 – 11), were randomly identified within each selected school board in a 4:1 ratio, representing the ratio of elementary to secondary schools in Quebec [22]. Following the approval by school boards and the principals of the selected schools, the school secretary was contacted to arrange a time for the assessors to visit the school. Once a time was arranged, the research team provided invitations (detailing date, time, location) to the school secretary for distribution to all school staff. If a school board or a school refused to participate or did not provide an answer within 6 months after multiple contacts, another one was randomly selected to replace it. All school personnel, including teachers, lunch monitors, administrative staff, school nurses, and janitors, were invited to participate.
Methods of approaching school personnel
In the other Canadian provinces where the ability of school personnel to recognize anaphylaxis and administer an epinephrine auto-injector was also assessed, the investigators were required by their Research Ethics Boards to fully disclose the purpose of the assessor’s visit in advance to participating school personnel. However, because we suspected that such an approach might introduce bias, in Quebec, the partial and full disclosure approaches were compared. One of the selected school boards was randomly assigned to a partial disclosure approach, i.e. school personnel and school contacts were not informed in advance of the EpiPen® demonstration and were told in the study invitation that the investigators were studying school personnel’s knowledge “regarding allergies and how schools are prepared for children with allergies.” The 2nd school board was assigned to a full disclosure approach: school personnel were informed in the study invitation of the exact purpose of the assessor’s visit, i.e., they would be asked to “show how they use an EpiPen® to help students with life-threatening allergies (anaphylaxis).” Both groups were told in the invitation that they would be provided “feedback, education, and materials on helping students with allergies in school.” For both groups, on the day of the visit, prior to the assessment, all school personnel who were interested presented themselves to the assessor and were requested to sign an informed consent which informed them that they would be asked to demonstrate the use of the EpiPen®. It should be noted that no participants in the partial disclosure group refused to participate at this stage.
EpiPen® assessment
Although there are 2 epinephrine auto-administration devices on the market in Canada, the Twinject® was only introduced in the fall of 2005 and has had relatively limited uptake. In addition, the Quebec Ministry of Health and Social Services stipulated that school personnel that are not trained health care workers are not allowed to administer the 2nd dose of the Twinject® [23], making this device less favored in the school environment. Therefore, it was decided to only assess the EpiPen® technique. Since we have completed the assessment of the school personnel, the company producing the EpiPen® has released a new EpiPen® device, which has a slightly different shape and color. However, the steps required to use the EpiPen® remain the same.
The assessors visited schools between October 2008 and May 2009. The assessment visit for each school was concluded within one day; there were no repeat visit to schools. A location in the school was secured to allow for privacy and a one-to-one interface with the assessor. Assessors were trained nurses or allergists, and their technique was assessed and ensured for accuracy.
EpiPen® technique was assessed based on accurate completion of 4 steps [24, 25] using an auto-injector demonstrator:
Removal of the grey safety cap;
Placement of the black tip against the mid-outer thigh;
Application of firm pressure until the device activates (“click” heard);
Holding of the device in place for 10 s.
To calculate a score for each participant, one point was assigned for successful completion of each step (maximum 4 points).
Participants were also asked to verbally provide 3 symptoms or signs of anaphylaxis. The 1st 3 symptoms or signs mentioned by the participant were recorded by the assessor. The answers were evaluated using previously published work on the definition and symptoms and signs of anaphylaxis [26]. After the assessor evaluated the participant’s EpiPen® technique and the participant answered questions regarding previous training and indications for administration of an epinephrine auto-injector, the assessor provided feedback on the participant’s technique and coaching until accurate technique was achieved.
Descriptive statistics were compiled for all variables. The participation rate was defined as the number of school personnel who participated divided by the estimated number of school personnel as provided by school secretaries. Data were analyzed according to each step of the EpiPen® technique regarding whether or not the step was performed accurately and an overall accuracy score was calculated. School personnel with a partial disclosure approach were compared to those with a full disclosure approach in terms of participation rate, scores and capacity to provide indications for epinephrine administration and the difference between groups and confidence intervals (CI) were reported. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to determine if the method of approach (i.e., partial versus full disclosure) was associated with accurate demonstration of the EpiPen® technique after adjustment for confounders. Potential confounders considered included type of school (elementary or secondary), prior training of the school personnel in the use of the EpiPen®, prior training by a nurse, and prior training using an EpiPen® trainer. These analyses were adjusted for clustering of participants within schools by allowing the variance to differ between schools.
This study was approved by the Research Ethics Board of the McGill University Health Center.
In the partial disclosure group, 33 schools were approached and 9 schools participated (7 elementary, 2 secondary); 460 personnel were approached and 187 participated (40.7%, 95% CI, 36.1%-45.3%). In the full disclosure group, 34 schools were approached and 11 participated (9 elementary, 2 secondary); 711 personnel were approached and 156 participated (21.9%, 95% CI, 19.0%-25.2%) (Table 1).
Table 1 Participation rates
The majority of participants in both groups were teachers: 64.2% in the partial disclosure group and 66.7% in the full disclosure group (Table 2). Among all participants, 18.1% were lunch monitors and 11.7% were administrative staff; only 3 school nurses (0.9%) participated. The vast majority of participants in both groups (89.2%) reported previous training, most of them having been trained by school nurses (93.8%). The training involved practice with an EpiPen® demonstrator for 76.1% in the partial disclosure and 54.9% in the full disclosure group. More school personnel from elementary schools reported training: 91.5% versus 82.4%, including training with an EpiPen® demonstrator: 75.7% versus 34.3%.
Table 2 Characteristics of school personnel and training
The mean scores for the EpiPen® assessment were 2.52 (95% CI, 2.39-2.65) in the partial disclosure group versus 2.64 (95% CI, 2.46-2.83) in the full disclosure group (Table 3). Overall, only 20.6% of participants had a perfect 4 point score. Participants from the full disclosure group were more likely to have a perfect score: 26.3% (95% CI, 19.6%-33.9%) versus 15.8% (95% CI, 10.8%-21.8%). Mean scores were also higher in elementary schools: 2.67 (95% CI, 2.55-2.80) versus 2.28 (95% CI, 2.04-2.51) in secondary schools, and school personnel from elementary schools were more likely to earn a perfect score: 23.7% (95% CI, 18.7%-29.4%) versus 10.8% (95% CI, 5.1%-19.6%) in secondary schools (Table 4).
Table 3 School personnel scores for EpiPen® assessment (Partial versus Full disclosure Groups)
Table 4 School personnel scores for EpiPen® assessment (Elementary versus Secondary schools)
The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that a full disclosure approach remained associated with a perfect score after adjustment for confounders: Odds Ratio (OR) 2.6 (95% CI, 1.5-4.6). Prior training with an EpiPen® demonstrator was also associated with accurate demonstration of the EpiPen® technique: OR 5.3 (95% CI, 2.6-10.7).
When considering the percentage of participants correctly demonstrating each step of the EpiPen® technique (Table 5), there was no between group difference for steps 1 (removal of the safety cap) and 4 (holding the device in place for 10 s). However, those in the full disclosure group were slightly more likely to perform step 2 (placement of the black tip against the mid-outer thigh) correctly: 59.6% (95% CI, 51.5%-67.4%) versus 45.1% (95% CI, 37.8%-52.6%). In contrast, those in the partial disclosure group were slightly more likely to perform step 3 (application of firm pressure until the device activates) correctly: 91.3% (95% CI, 86.3%-94.9%) versus 82.1% (95% CI, 75.1%-87.7%). However, because it is not known if keeping the EpiPen® device against the thigh for 10 s (step 4) is really necessary to ensure efficacy, we also calculated participants’ scores based on accurate completion of the first 3 steps described above. When this last step is omitted, those in the full disclosure group were more likely to complete steps 1 through 3 correctly: 51.3% (95% CI, 43.3%-59.4%) versus 31.0% (95% CI, 24.4%-38.2%).
Table 5 School personnel’s ability to complete each step of the EpiPen® assessment
Overall, 63% of participants were able to identify 3 signs or symptoms of anaphylaxis that should prompt the administration of epinephrine, more in schools with full disclosure: 71.8% (95% CI, 64.0%-78.7%) versus 55.6% (95% CI, 48.2%-62.9%).
In this study, we explored the existence of volunteer or consent bias by using 2 different methods to solicit the participation of school personnel in research evaluating competency in the use of an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen®): partial disclosure and full disclosure. The participation rate was higher in the partial disclosure group (between group difference 18.7%, 95% CI, 13.3%-24.1%) and participants from the full disclosure group were more likely to earn a perfect score (between group difference 10.5%, 95% CI, 1.8%-19.2%), demonstrate the 3 critical steps correctly (between group difference 20.3%, 95% CI, 10.0%-30.6%), and identify signs of anaphylaxis (between group difference 16.2%, 95% CI, 6.2%-26.2%). These results suggest the existence of a volunteer or consent bias, a form of selection bias where individuals who volunteer for a study may have specific characteristics that distinguish them from non-volunteers and that may affect outcomes; for example, participants may be more likely to find the topic interesting and usually expect to be evaluated positively [27]. In our study, school personnel from the partial disclosure group were not given all the information about the purpose of the study and the EpiPen® assessment prior to the assessors’ visit. Consequently, they were unlikely to be reluctant to participate because of concerns regarding their knowledge and competence, but their performance was generally poorer. In contrast, those in the full disclosure group were completely aware of the purpose of the assessment and those with a greater interest and possibly knowledge in the topic were more willing to participate, leading to an overestimation of competence relative to the general population. It is also possible that those who chose to participate also practised or prepared prior to the evaluation, enhancing their performance. This suggests that the timing and the process of informed consent can affect the participation rate and the interpretation of the results. Although this threat to the validity of a study that arises from the consent process has been described previously [20, 21, 28, 29], we are the first to explore its influence in allergy research.
In comparing the 2 approaches, we tried to ensure that the school boards were as similar as possible other than in the detailing of the consent by randomly selecting school boards of similar size in the same urban area. In addition, in Quebec, as school nurses responsible for school personnel training are employed by the Ministry of Health and Social Services and not by individual school boards, the EpiPen® training is less likely to be influenced by school board environments and likely to be reasonably similar throughout the province. Further, we adjusted for possible differences between the partial and full disclosure groups through regression analyses and demonstrated that the full disclosure group continued to perform more favourably. However, it is possible that the school boards differed in ways we did not consider or were unable to measure and these differences influenced the performance of school personnel. It should be noted that in the multivariate analysis, prior training with an auto-injector and being in the full disclosure group were independent predictors of a perfect score. Hence, although fewer in the full disclosure group reported training than those in the partial disclosure group, they still performed better and we anticipate that had more in the full disclosure group reported training, the between group difference in performance would be even greater.
It is also possible that there was contamination within and between groups. As it was not feasible to conduct all school assessments on the same day, assessments were staggered over an 8-month period. Hence, it is possible that school personnel within the partial or full disclosure group assessed early in the process communicated with those in the partial disclosure group who were assessed later, informing them of the purpose of the assessment. Such contamination would likely minimize our between group difference and make our assessment of selection bias conservative. In addition, our analyses were adjusted to take into account the grouping of participants by school, and we found that the effects of within-school versus between-school variations were not significant, as the size of the confidence intervals was only minimally affected. Although it was not the purpose of this small study, it would have been interesting to compare participants and non-participants in terms of their anaphylaxis interest and knowledge to better characterize the bias illustrated in this study.
Our results reporting that only 26.3% (95% CI, 19.6%-33.9%) among the full disclosure group are able to accurately demonstrate the use of the EpiPen® are disturbing as they likely overestimate the competence of school personnel. The 15.8% (95% CI, 10.8%-21.8%) demonstrating correct usage in the partial disclosure group is likely more representative, but it, too, is probably an overestimate as the most informed were still more likely to participate even in this group. Although personnel in elementary schools performed more favourably, possibly because they feel younger children are more reliant on them, only 23.7% (95% CI, 18.7%-29.4%) were able to correctly use the EpiPen®. These results are worrisome because it has been shown that inability to use an epinephrine auto-injector may contribute to a delay in the treatment of anaphylaxis [11, 30] which can increase the risk for fatality [10, 12].
Given the poor performance observed despite 89.2% of all participants reporting training, the quality and frequency of school personnel training needs to be examined. In Quebec, school personnel are trained in allergy and anaphylaxis management and EpiPen® use on a regular basis [31]. However, the content and frequency of training programs may vary as there are no provincial guidelines. In our study, training involving an EpiPen® demonstrator was associated with better performance. Other authors have also recommended use of the auto-injector training device and frequent review to increase knowledge retention [11, 15]. A training model using an audio-visual presentation and written material on anaphylaxis and epinephrine administration followed by a meeting with allergic children was developed for school personnel in San Francisco in 2004, and significantly increased knowledge and perceived self-efficacy in 53 participants [32]. Such a training model could be adapted and studied in Canada.
Although Research Ethics Boards usually ask investigators to fully disclose the intended purpose of their research to potential participants, we have shown that the process of consent can influence participation and bias outcomes. Investigators need to appreciate and acknowledge the potential bias that may be introduced by the consent process and attempt to fulfill ethical requirements while minimizing bias. While respecting participants’ rights, ethical issues regarding the consent process have to be discussed with Research Ethics Boards whenever the scientific validity of results may be compromised. Researchers and Ethics Boards may need to be educated on circumstances under which studies can proceed without full prior disclosure. Further, we have shown that despite being trained to recognize anaphylaxis and to administer epinephrine, school personnel perform poorly when asked to demonstrate how to use the EpiPen®. The content, quality and frequency of allergy and anaphylaxis training programs for school personnel have to be re-examined. As recommended by numerous guidelines [33–35] and required by legislation in at least one Canadian province [36], management plans targeting allergies and anaphylaxis should be introduced in schools to create a safer environment for children with life-threatening allergies. Further studies on the process of implementation and the impact of such plans are also needed.
Source of Funding: The Foundations of the McGill University Health Center and the
Montreal Children’s Hospital.
The Allergy, Genes, and Environment (AllerGen) Network of Centres of Excellence.
Dr. Nguyen-Luu was supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research National Training Program in Allergy and Asthma and the Montreal Children’s Hospital Research Institute. Dr. Joseph and Dr. Clarke are National Scholars of the Fonds de la recherche en santé du Québec.
CI:
Standard Deviation.
Branum AM, Lukacs SL: Food allergy among children in the United States. Pediatrics. 2009, 124: 1549-1555. 10.1542/peds.2009-1210.
Lieberman P, Nicklas RA, Oppenheimer J: The diagnosis and management of anaphylaxis practice parameter: 2010 update. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010, 126: 477-480. 10.1016/j.jaci.2010.06.022.
American College of Allergy: Asthma and immunology: Food allergy: a practice parameter. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2006, 96: S1-S68.
Bock SA, Atkins FM: The natural history of peanut allergy. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1989, 83: 900-904. 10.1016/0091-6749(89)90103-6.
Clark AT, Ewan PW: Good prognosis, clinical features, and circumstances of peanut and tree nut reactions in children treated by a specialist allergy center. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2008, 122: 286-289. 10.1016/j.jaci.2008.05.015.
Nowak-Wegrzyn A, Conover-Walker MK, Wood RA: Food-allergic reactions in schools and preschools. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2001, 155: 790-795.
Vander Leek TK, Liu AH, Stefanski K, Blacker B, Bock SA: The natural history of peanut allergy in young children and its association with serum peanut-specific IgE. J Pediatr. 2000, 137: 749-755. 10.1067/mpd.2000.109376.
Yu JW, Kagan R, Verreault N: Accidental ingestions in children with peanut allergy. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2006, 118: 466-472. 10.1016/j.jaci.2006.04.024.
Bock SA, Munoz-Furlong A, Sampson HA: Fatalities due to anaphylactic reactions to foods. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2001, 107: 191-193. 10.1067/mai.2001.112031.
Bock SA, Munoz-Furlong A, Sampson HA: Further fatalities caused by anaphylactic reactions to food, 2001–2006. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2007, 119: 1016-1018. 10.1016/j.jaci.2006.12.622.
Sicherer SH, Furlong TJ, DeSimone J, Sampson HA: The US Peanut and Tree Nut Allergy Registry: characteristics of reactions in schools and day care. J Pediatr. 2001, 138: 560-565. 10.1067/mpd.2001.111821.
Pumphrey RS: Lessons for management of anaphylaxis from a study of fatal reactions. Clin Exp Allergy. 2000, 30: 1144-1150. 10.1046/j.1365-2222.2000.00864.x.
Sampson HA, Mendelson L, Rosen JP: Fatal and near-fatal anaphylactic reactions to food in children and adolescents. N Engl J Med. 1992, 327: 380-384. 10.1056/NEJM199208063270603.
Pulcini JM, Sease KK, Marshall GD: Disparity between the presence and absence of food allergy action plans in one school district. Allergy Asthma Proc. 2010, 31: 141-146. 10.2500/aap.2010.31.3315.
Rhim GS, McMorris MS: School readiness for children with food allergies. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2001, 86: 172-176. 10.1016/S1081-1206(10)62687-7.
Fischer DA: Ability of elementary school teachers to use Epi-Pens. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol. 2005, 1: 105-
Watson W, Woodrow AM, Bruce A, Power A: Are teachers knowledgeable and confident about dealing with allergy emergencies?. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol. 2010, 6: 10-10.1186/1710-1492-6-10.
Cicutto L, Julien B, Li NY, Nguyen-Luu NU, Butler J, Clarke A, Elliott SJ, Harada L, McGhan S, Stark D, Vander Leek TK, Waserman S: Comparing school environments with and without legislation for the prevention and management of anaphylaxis. Allergy. 2012, 67: 131-137. 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2011.02721.x.
Sackett DL: Bias in analytical research. J Chron Dis. 1979, 32: 51-53. 10.1016/0021-9681(79)90012-2.
Junghans C, Jones M: Consent bias in research: how to avoid it. Heart. 2007, 93: 1024-1025. 10.1136/hrt.2007.120113.
Buckley B, Murphy AW, Byrne M, Glynn L: Selection bias resulting from the requirement for prior consent in observational research: a community cohort of people with ischaemic heart disease. Heart. 2007, 93: 1116-1120. 10.1136/hrt.2006.111591.
Ouellette R: Statistiques de l'éducation: Enseignement primaire, secondaire, collégial et universitaire. 2008, Ministère de l'Éducation, du Loisir et du Sport, Quebec, French, 2007th
Lefrancois Daniel: (Direction adjointe des services préhospitaliers d'urgence, Ministère de la santé et des services sociaux). 2007, Letter to: Claire Dufresne (Association québécoise des allergies alimentaires), French
Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN): Food allergy action plan. [Internet]. Available at: Accessed November 20, 2010, [http://www.foodallergy.org/page/food-allergy-action-plan1]
Young MC, Munoz-Furlong A, Sicherer SH: Management of food allergies in schools: a perspective for allergists. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2009, 124: 175-182. 10.1016/j.jaci.2009.04.004.
Sampson HA, Munoz-Furlong A, Campbell RL: Second symposium on the definition and management of anaphylaxis: summary report–Second National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease/Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network symposium. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2006, 117: 391-397. 10.1016/j.jaci.2005.12.1303.
Heiman GW: Research Methods in Psychology. 2002, Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston, 3rd
Al-Shahi R, Vousden C, Warlow C: Bias from requiring explicit consent from all participants in observational research: prospective, population based study. BMJ. 2005, 331: 942-10.1136/bmj.38624.397569.68.
Edlund MJ, Craig TJ, Richardson MA: Informed consent as a form of volunteer bias. Am J Psychiatry. 1985, 42: 624-627.
Bansal PJ, Marsh R, Patel B, Tobin MC: Recognition, evaluation, and treatment of anaphylaxis in the child care setting. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2005, 94: 55-59. 10.1016/S1081-1206(10)61286-0.
Table de concertation des infirmières en santé des jeunes 5–12 ans: Protocole d'intervention en milieu scolaire pour les élèves présentant un risque de choc anaphylactique dû à une allergie alimentaire ou à une piqûre d'insecte. 1989, French
Litarowsky JA, Murphy SO, Canham DL: Evaluation of an anaphylaxis training program for unlicensed assistive personnel. J Sch Nurs. 2004, 20: 279-284. 10.1177/10598405040200050601.
AAAAI Board of Directors: American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology: Anaphylaxis in schools and other childcare settings. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1998, 102: 173-176.
Sicherer SH, Mahr T: Management of Food Allergy in the School Setting. Pediatrics. 2010, 126: 1232-1239. 10.1542/peds.2010-2575.
Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: Anaphylaxis in schools and other settings, 2nd Ed. 2009
Legislative Assembly of Ontario, 38th Legislature, 1st Sess: Bill 3: An act to protect anaphylactic pupils. 2005
Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McGill University, 687 Pine Avenue West, V Building, Room V1.09, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 1A1, Canada
Nha Uyen Nguyen Luu
, Lianne Soller
& Lawrence Joseph
Department of Medicine, Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Department of Medicine, National Jewish Health, Denver, CO, USA
Lisa Cicutto
Department of Medicine, Division of Clinical Epidemiology, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Lawrence Joseph
, Yvan St-Pierre
& Ann Clarke
Department of Medicine, Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
Susan Waserman
Department of Medicine, Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Ann Clarke
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Correspondence to Nha Uyen Nguyen Luu.
NUNL participated in the study design, recruitment process, assessment of participants, data revision and analysis, data interpretation, and drafted the manuscript. LC participated in the study design, development of data collection instruments, data interpretation. LS participated in the recruitment process, assessment of participants, data interpretation. LJ participated in the study design, data analysis, data interpretation. SW participated in the study design, data interpretation. YSP performed the statistical analysis, and participated in the data interpretation. AC participated in the study design, data analysis, data interpretation. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.
Nguyen Luu, N.U., Cicutto, L., Soller, L. et al. Management of anaphylaxis in schools: Evaluation of an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen®) use by school personnel and comparison of two approaches of soliciting participation. All Asth Clin Immun 8, 4 (2012) doi:10.1186/1710-1492-8-4
Consent bias
Volunteer bias
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a "Backwoods" Conservative
If we ever forget that we are One Nation Under God, then we will be a nation gone under. Ronald Reagan
SERIOUSLY FOLKS??? CORY BOOKER AS PRESIDENT???
Posted by Front Porch News on March 14, 2017
If anyone were to still have any doubts about the weakness of the Democrat bench or the shallowness of the Democrat gene pool one need to hear no other news, fake or otherwise, that Corey Booker, the mayor who left Newark far worse off than he found it and then used the race card to finagle a seat in the U.S. Senate, easily tops the list of potential Democrat contenders for 2020. Is that not the most hilarious thing you’ve ever heard? Booker’s youth, as well as his popularity with the vocal progressive wing of the party, make the rumors easy to believe, but Booker himself was unwilling to address the speculation head-on until recently.
And it was in taking to the airwaves, courtesy of the Communist News Network’s “State of the Union,” that Booker refuted the rumors that he may be interested in running for president come the 2020 presidential election. Booker said, “I think that we are doing — anybody in office is doing exactly what the American people are fed up and sick and tired of by talking about politics.” And he went on to say, “Let’s talk about people and purpose now. I want to be authentic in who I am right now. I want to be a person of purpose not thinking about a future office.” Anyone buying any of this bullshit? Because if we’re being honest here, that’s really all it is!
Booker asserted that politicians who focus only on the next attainable office weren’t good politicians, before adding that such ambition usually forces someone to make compromises in their current office. He said, “I am going to be fearless in telling the truth. I don’t care where it ends me up because I think when I go home to Newark, New Jersey, that’s what my community wants from me.” Right, so old Corey is going to be fearless in telling the truth? But the ‘truth’ by whose definition, I wonder? Because this guy, like most Democrats, wouldn’t know the truth if it came up and bit him in the ass. So it’s rather difficult, for me, to take this guy seriously.
And as if to reinforce the whole notion that the Democrat Party seems to have not only hit the bottom of the barrel, but has now proceeded to go right through the bottom of said barrel, regarding its number of suitable candidates for the office of president, we’re told that other top contenders for the Democrat nomination in 2020 include Sens. Elizabeth Warren, Sherrod Brown, and even former presidential candidate Hitlery herself. Hitlery will be in her early 70s by then and likely even less appealing than she was in her late 60s. Oh, and rumor also now has it that the crook from New York, Andy Cuomo, may decide to run. Need I say more?
And it was during this same CNN interview that Booker accused President Trump of creating a “toxic environment” of “increased fear in our country.” He said, “This is the problem, I don’t care what party you are in right now, recognize this, we are at a time of increased fear in our country.” And why might that be, Mr. Booker? Because any fear that I may possess has as its source you and nearly every other member of your pathetically corrupt party. Because it’s you who want to allow into this country those who seek nothing more than to kill me or those who wish to take advantage of the generosity of the American people. And for what, so they’ll vote for Democrats?
Booker said, “There is something seriously wrong when mendacity has become the norm. There is something seriously wrong when law-abiding citizens are afraid to leave their homes. There is something seriously wrong when hate crimes are surging. There is something seriously wrong when this is a toxic environment being created right now. And I don’t care who you are, if you consider yourself a leader, you have an obligation to stand up and do something about it and lead with love and not appealing to people’s darker angels or exploiting that fear.” Like when a president throws open the jailhouse doors or pretends our borders don’t exist?
Personally, having already gone down that road once and having it result in what was nothing less than an unmitigated disaster, I’d like to think that the American people would have it in them the wisdom to NEVER AGAIN elect a black president!! Thank you Barry “Almighty”, because not only did you destroy your own party but you have ruined any chance of a black man ever being elected president again. If there was some way for Booker to become president he might even be worse and more corrupt than Barry “Almighty”. For the sake of race relations in this country the very last thing we would need again, is another black Democrat as president.
And look, as far as a “toxic environment of increased fear”, the only fear President Trump is creating is the fear within a Democrat Party that’s bleeding voters due to its failures, its lies, its arrogance its corruption and its communist tendencies. Theirs is a dying party and their over the top hateful rhetoric is a clear reflection of their panic. Personally I feel much safer now than I did when Mr. “Overseas Contingency Operation” was in office. His constant bending over and spreading ‘em for his then favorite non-enemy-enemy got to be more than a little unsettling. After all, being a Democrat means never being able to say “Radical Islam”!
Booker’s idiotic claim of a “toxic environment of fear” reminds me of Barry’s eight years of incessant race baiting and race hustling. He convinced every black person they had to fear for their lives. It’s how he eventually put a target on every cop’s back. It was Barry who created the ‘environment of fear’. Whites getting punched in the head for no reason when they were walking down the street, whites getting yelled at and accused of “white privilege”, whites getting screamed at in colleges, and now white students are being murdered at colleges. Trump didn’t cause any of this, Barry did! It was going on long before Trump took office.
Liberals never cease to amaze me. Democrat politicians consistently work against the best interests of those constituencies that repeatedly vote for them over and over, much like the abused wife who constantly returns to her abuser. Basically every word from Booker’s mouth is exactly what the liberals are all doing. The only ones freaking out and trying to scare everybody, is them! They shouldn’t really call themselves “progressives” anymore, because what they are, are ‘RE-gressives’. Because if you look at what were once classic liberal values, like freedom of speech, freedom to practice your religion, they don’t possess those values anymore.
That sounds much like the Moslem concept that if only ‘everyone’ would simply give in to Islam then there would be no more violence and no more problems. I can see why the progressives love Moslems now, they think exactly the same way. So Booker’s idea is that if President Trump just stopped opposing the progressive, open borders, business destroying, identity politics juggernaut of the last 8 years then the fear progressives have of losing those same things would disappear. I have news for the many snowflakes like Booker, all that President Trump needs to do is to simply ignore the progressives/regressives among us, and just do what he was elected to do.
Those who proudly wear the moniker of ‘progressive’, or if you prefer, RE-gressive, would never vote for Trump anyway so there’s simply no point in trying to appease them in any meaningful way. In the end Trump’s administration will act like an intervention in their twisted lives and maybe some will wake up to themselves as happened in Reagan’s first term. But there will always be a hardened core of liberal ‘malcontents’ who will always think the toxic civilization they have created these last few years is the only a viable model for this country going forward and that anyone who views things differently should never again be allowed a place at the table.
That Cory Booker could even be considering the possibility of maybe running for President in 2020 is nothing less than the most hilarious thing I think I have ever heard. He has zero charisma, zero debating skills, and zero ideas except racism and identity politics. In other words he’s another Hitlery, only in a darker, male form. And if true, that he is at or near the top of potential Democrat contenders for 2020, then perhaps the Democrat Party is in far worse shape than we thought. But that said, it’s as long as we have Republicans like McConnell, Ryan, McCain and Graham, to name just a few, we can never truly count out the Democrats.
This entry was posted in Hypocritical Democrats and tagged Cory Booker. Bookmark the permalink.
DEMOCRAT OPPOSITION TO THE BORDER WALL IS PURE POLITICS…
SHAME ON YOU FOR YOUR WHITE PRIVILEGE…
One response to “SERIOUSLY FOLKS??? CORY BOOKER AS PRESIDENT???”
larryzb says:
Kimala Harris, the freshman senator from CA, will get the women’s vote and turn out the minority vote. Booker can be her running mate as VP in 2020.
I’M REALLY FED UP WITH THIS CONTINUING DOUBLE-STANDARD…
YET ANOTHER REASON (NOT) TO VOTE DEMOCRAT…
THE WORLD ACCORDING TO…‘CROOKED JOE’…
ALEC BALDWIN, HOLLYWEIRDO EXTRAORDINAIRE…
LIAR JOHN KERRY-HEINZ, ACCUSES THE PRESIDENT OF LYING…
ENOUGH OF ALL THIS FOOLISHNESS…
“DEMOCRATS CAUGHT ON TAPE”…
AND ANOTHER RINO SELF-EXPOSED…
DEMOCRATS: DO AS I SAY, NOT AS I DO…
‘CRAZY MAZIE’ SPEWS THE LATEST DEMOCRAT TALKING POINT…
'Little Dick' Durbin
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Cedar Knoll Galleria
Commercial / Kentucky
Cedar Knoll Galleria, now known as Kyova Mall, is a mostly empty shopping center near Ashland, Kentucky. Despite being planned for six department stores and over 100 inline retailers, it has two anchors and a nearly empty interior concourse.
The Zamia Corporation opened Cedar Knoll Galleria on November 8, 1989, 12 9 shortly after the nearby Ashland Town Center held its own ribbon cutting on October 19. 12 Cedar Knoll was anchored by Sears, Stone & Thomas, Phar-Mor, and K-Mart with room for two anchors. Other tenants included Rex TV and Appliances, Jone’s New York, and Pollock’s Jewelry. The food court featured The White Mountain ice cream parlor, Luca’s Pizza, and Pretzel’s-Plus. At its height, the mall boasted an occupancy rate of 69%.
Meijer studied the possibility of locating at Cedar Knoll Galleria between 2001 and 2003, completing several architectural renderings at a cost of $30,000 to $40,000 each. 11 Target was also interested in locating at the mall, but the county’s reluctance of issuing tax incentives or breaks prevented both Meijer and Target from locating in the region.
In 2002, Phar-Mor closed all of their stores in the southern United States, which included its location at Cedar Knoll. K-Mart closed their store later in the year, which was replaced by Artrip’s Market and a flea market in late 2004.
In 2004, Zamia went bankrupt and its creditors sold the company and its properties at auction. 9 Reyton Cedar Knoll LLC purchased Cedar Knoll Galleria from Zamias, who rebranded it as the Kyova Mall, taking cues from the state names of Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia for the new title. 11 Major repairs to the roof and interior concourse were completed.
In June 2005, discussions began about the construction of a movie theater in one of the never-completed department store footprints in the rear of the mall. 11 Indiana-based Great Escape Theatres announced on May 11, 2006, that it would construct a movie theater in the former Phar-Mor department store. 3 Work would include demolition of 11,000 square feet of the mall concourse and the construction of an enclosed atrium to give the theater an “indoor and outdoor feel.” Work began on July 21, but Great EscapeTheatres backed out of the deal on July 24, giving development rights to Phoenix Theatres. 3 4 Phoenix Theatres 10 opened on May 18, 2007. 5
In November 2005, Steve and Barry’s replaced both Artrip’s Market and the flea market. 11 The sportswear chain filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on July 8, 2008, and entered into Chapter 7 liquidation on November 27.
In a bid to attract restaurants to Kyova Mall and its out-lots, Kyova Mall began a petition in 2007 to allow alcohol to be served in restaurants that made at least 70% of their revenue from food sales and had at least seating for 100 people. 6 7 The petition received nearly 6,000 signatures from registered voters which allowed it to go to a county-wide vote. The measure to allow certain restaurants to serve alcohol passed by with a 67% confidence on May 22.
On May 11, 2014, Sears closed 13 followed by Elder-Beerman in mid-2018 as part of a company-wide liquidation. 1 Rural King, offering farm, camping and hunting supplies, opened in the former Steve & Barry’s anchor space in August 2015. 10
Former Tenants
Phar-Mor
K-Mart/Artrips Market/Flea Market/Steve and Barry’s/Rural King
Pollock’s Jewelry
Arcade, Later Resolutions
Coach House Gifts
Kay-Bee Toys
The Italian Oven
Rex TV/Appliance
Fashion Bug/Furniture Store
Bingo Halls
Faith Christian Store
Monfried Optical Superstore
New York Company
Kay Jeweler
A view of the former Elder-Beerman.
A view of the former Sears.
A view of the food court entrance.
View towards the former Elder-Beerman and Sears.
A view of the former K-Mart, later Steve & Barry’s, and now a Rural King.
Adkins, Andrew. “Elder-Beerman to close at KYOVA Mall.” Daily Independent [Ashland], 19 Apr. 2018.
Huntington News.
Fields, Ben. “Work under way for new theater at Kyova.” 24 July, 2006 Daily Independent (Ashland). May 24, 2007.
“PHOENIX THEATRES TO MANAGE NEW MULTI-PLEX THEATRE IN CANNONSBURG, KY.” Phoenix Theatres.
“New Kentucky theater boasts 10 screens, stadium seating.” 17 May, 2007 Ironton Tribune. May 17, 2007.
Fields, Ben. “Landslide.” 23 May, 2007 Daily Independent (Ashland). May 24, 2007.
Fields, Ben. “All precincts but one vote ‘yes’.” May 23, 2007 Daily Independent (Ashland). 24 May, 2007.
Hart, Kenneth. “Kyova Mall theater to open Friday.” 13 May, 2007 Daily Independent (Ashland). 29 May, 2007.
Fields, Ben. “Mall bustles as theater opens.” 21 May, 2007 Daily Independent (Ashland). 29 May, 2007.
Preston, Tim. “No.1 Rural King taking Kyova Mall space.” Daily Independent [Ashland], 30 Apr. 2015.
Fields, Ben. “Kyova’s Blair: ‘I needed a break’.” 2 April, 2007 Daily Independent (Ashland). 29 May, 2007.
“Dow Jones surges to high amid interest-rate optimism.” 4 Oct., 1989 Herald-Leader (Lexington). 29 May, 2007.
“Sears Reportedly Closing KYOVA Mall Store.” WSAZ Newschannel 3. N.p., 10 Feb. 2014. Web. 25 July 2014.
The Decline of Shopping Malls - Abandoned - Abandoned Building Photography says:
[…] my hometown was not spared. When Cedar Knoll Galleria opened in 1989 on the outskirts of Ashland, Kentucky, it’s developers boasted that it would […]
Ashland's Field Department Store and Sears - Abandoned - Abandoned Building Photography says:
[…] relocated to Cedar Knoll Galleria on the outskirts of the city in […]
We went there to rent a space today and they quoted us outrageous price for a space! I see now why the mall is empty!! 12.00 a square foot for a mall with onlt one store. Amazing, there is even a empty store there that has cats running loose in there and the management office smelled like cat piss!
That is horrendous! I moved here when I married 9 yrs ago–there were lots of empty stores in the town itself that have stayed empty to this day not just the mall. I bought my wedding gown at a store in this mall. It is shocking how fast it went down in my time here. I now understand why there are so many empty stores if this is how the owners deal with it. Ive never understood why letting something stand empty year after year and having to pay property taxes and ins on said empty place was better than being reasonable on making deals to get someone in the property to liven up this ghosttown…ive got ideas–but no money.
It’s actually Lerner New York that used to be there and not Jones New York. I was the manager of that store for two years. Used to be a nice mall to work in.
Renea Riley says:
The Kyova Mall needs to clean up the outside. Weeds grow everywhere, and the parking lot is a disaster with pot holes everywhere! No business wants to locate to a place like that.
cathy wilburn says:
Why not look for stores like Big Dogs, Nike, Gap, Baby Gap, Levis , like the malls in Tennessee it Virgina Beach, they could benefit from these kind of stores to bring the mall back too life….
Xan Mooney says:
Is the mall up for sale again? Are they trying to actively seek new vendors? Why not look to companies that are not currently there. what about high end stores, Ann Taylor, Coach, places like this, I feel this area could support and needs this.
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'It's apocalyptic': Thousands of koalas are dying in Australia wildfires
By Liz Kreutz
Hundreds of wildfires are burning across Australia forcing thousands to evacuate -- and the U.S. Embassy to issue a warning to tourists on the south coast of New South Wales to get out.
"It's really quite scary. It's apocalyptic," Penny Lee, a Sydney resident who flew into San Francisco International Airport on Thursday said. "I've lived in Sydney for 30 years and I've never seen it like this ever."
The fires are also having a devastating impact on wildlife. Nearly half a billion animals are feared dead. The koala population is particularly suffering.
"Already their numbers are threatened and now you add in these huge wildfires that are taking away again more trees, and that's compounding the problem and putting their numbers in real dire threat," Sarah King, a curator at the San Francisco Zoo explained.
Videos that show koalas parched, approaching humans while fighting for their lives have been shared all over the world.
Koalas have very particular needs. They only eat eucalyptus, which is also how they get their water.
"You don't often see koalas drinking water," King said. "When you do, it typically indicates that there may be something else going on with the animal."
People around the globe are stepping up to help. More than two million dollars has been donated to an Australian koala hospital.
Even when the fires end, there's a long road ahead.
"They're going to have to plant a lot of new trees," King said. "That's going to be the key thing, is planting more eucalyptus."
Spent the morning with Cynthia the Koala, and #swoon 😍
My heart is breaking seeing the poor koalas threatened by the wildfires in #Australia. We’re at the @sfzoo learning more about these sweet animals & how all of us, even thousands of miles away, can help 🐨❤️@abc7newsbayarea pic.twitter.com/JoDmWiO2S3
— Liz Kreutz (@ABCLiz) January 2, 2020
pets & animalssan franciscosan francisco international airportsan francisco zooanimal rescueaustraliafirewildfire
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Volume 7, 2 Issues, 2020
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Co-Editors
Dennis M. Gross
Pennsylvania Drug Discovery Institute
Biography of Dennis M. Gross
Dr. Gross received a masters (M.S.) in Biology from the California State University and his doctorate (Ph.D.) in Cell Biology from the University of California, Los Angeles. He did his postdoctoral training at Tulane University School of Medicine. He has also done postgraduate programs at the Wharton School, Harvard/Tufts Law Schools and MIT. Dr. Gross is also faculty in the Jefferson College of Biomedical Sciences and the Sydney Kimmel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University, Professor of Experimental Therapeutics and Medicinal Chemistry in the Blumberg Institute and Adjunct Professor of Basic Sciences at The Commonwealth Medical College. He has published more than 120 scientific publications. He currently is also the CEO of the Pennsylvania Drug Discovery Institute.
Chad E. Beyer
Promentis Pharmaceuticals
Biography of Chad E. Beyer
Dr. Beyer is President & CEO of Promentis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. He has nearly 20 years of experience in the research, discovery and business development of medications aimed to treat CNS and neurological disorders. Previously, Dr. Beyer served as the Head of Neurochemistry at Wyeth Pharmaceuticals in Princeton, NJ. During his career at Wyeth, Dr. Beyer holds a Ph.D. in Neuropharmacology from LSU Medical Center and an MBA from the Rutgers Business School. Notably, Dr. Beyer has authored more than 70 manuscripts, 3 patents, and co-edited "Next Generation Antidepressants." Dr. Beyer is also an adjunct faculty member at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia where he teaches "Bioventure Management", a class focused on the business of doing science.
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Technology Transfer and Entrepreneurship Journal was launched in 2014. Dr. Dennis M. Gross and Dr. Chad E. Beyer are the Co- Editors of the journal.
Society Accreditations
Society Name: SPECIAL OFFER FOR SOCIETY OF PHYSICIAN ENTREPRENEURS (SOPE) MEMBERS:
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Review On reviewed by reviewed by Joan Alperin reviewed by Joan Alperin
photo by Ed Krieger
'Paradise' A Bluegrass Musical Comedy That Will Have You Laughing & Dancing In Your Seats
Growing up in New York City I started going to musicals when I was six years old and my love for them has not diminished. I love musical theatre so much that I will travel hours to see one. Luckily, I didn't have to go that far to see 'Paradise' the new bluegrass musical comedy playing at The Ruskin Theatre.
'Paradise' was written by Bill Robertson, Tom Sage and Cliff Wagner. They like to refer to this as 'A Divine Bluegrass Musical Comedy.' and after seeing it you'll understand why.
Directed by Michael Myers this show scores big in every way. The story is simple. Paradise is a small town that is facing hard times. Their main industry 'mining' is practically non existent since the mine shut down. It's obvious from the first number that the American Dream has passed Paradise by. However, things are soon about to change with the appearance of Rev. John Cyrus Mountain aka For Profit Prophet played by the fantastically talented Jon Root who actually originated the role at the Ruskin in 2013.
Rev John hasn't come alone. He's brought with him his very hot sidekick and ex stripper, Chastity Jones (the wonderful Nina Brissy) who brings down the house with her song 'Jesus Is Deep Inside of Me' while dancing on a stripper's pole. Accompaning them is Peter Martinez (Jamie Daniels) the son of a reality TV producer from Hollywood. They soon convince the people of Paradise that the way to salvation, fame and fortune is through Reality TV. The Preacher wants to build a mega church so he can spread the gospel and become a super star in the world of realigon.
The whole cast is absolutely sensational, including Paradise's shop owner, Louanne (the fabulous Kelsey Joyce), the hysterically funny Mayor Gayheart, (Chip Bolcik) a closeted gay germaphobic. His collection of gloves will have you falling out of your seat laughing. There's also his adopted bi-racial son, Tater (Randy Taylor) who Gayheart wants to become a big Broadway star despite Tater's misgivings. Their duet 'I Don't Want to Sing on Braodway' is another one of the show's highlights.
Finally there's a quirky pig and chicken farmer, Cyndi (the extremely funny Paige Segal) who lives to revenge those who wronged her.
The show has been updated since it's run in 2013 making it timely as well as hysterically funny, insightful, and a touching satire about living the dream in America. Don't miss it.
'Paradise' opened on Friday, August 17th and plays through September 23rd 2018. Performances are Friday and Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 2pm. The theatre is located at 3000 Airport Avenue, Santa Monica, CA. Tickets are $30-$35. To purchase: Call 310-397-3244 or go to www.ruskingrouptheatre.com.
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History preserved: unearthed 1920s Homewood trolley tracks incorporated in new road paving
Unearthed Homewood trolley tracks preserved on the corner of Broadway Street and Oxmoor. Photo by Pat Byington for Bham Now.
Last month, Bham Now reported that the City of Homewood had decided to preserve the unearthed trolley tracks and brick down the center of Broadway street in the Edgewood neighborhood. The project is now complete.
Below are photos taken on July 8th of the newly paved road incorporating the tracks in the design of the busy intersection.
Unearthed Homewood trolley tracks preserved on the corner of Broadway Street and Oxmoor. Photo taken on July 8, 2018 by Pat Byington for Bham Now.
The 1920s tracks and bricks were discovered when the road construction company was preparing the street for re-paving. The city halted construction on Broadway Street in April, and tasked Dunn Construction to have an expert examine the city’s options.
The expert came back with an option that would preserve a section of the street that enabled the trolley tracks and bricks to remain visible to the public, while also keeping the roadway safe for vehicles. The cost of preserving the tracks and bricks did fall within the budget to pave Broadway.
According to Bhamwiki, the trolley tracks on Broadway were originally part of the Birmingham and Edgewood Electric Railway’s streetcar route in the 1910s and 1920s. The streetcar stopped running prior to World War II.
Trolley tracks and bricks unearthed in April 2018 on Broadway Street in Homewood. Photo by Pat Byington for Bham Now.
Todd Keith, author of Birmingham Then & Now and a resident on Homewood’s Broadway Street described the significance of the effort to preserve the tracks and bricks.
“You can’t value something until you know it exists. Or once existed,” Keith says. “I know that sounds a bit obvious, but Broadway and Edgewood were once connected to one of the more extensive streetcar networks in the South, stretching to downtown Birmingham, Woodlawn, Bessemer, Wenonah, Ensley, East Lake and beyond.”
Author Pat ByingtonPosted on July 9, 2018 February 25, 2019
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Next Next post: 10 facts about Back Forty Birmingham, including how the sausage is made
Sci Cafe – Forensics Entomology
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How Advertising In Fayetteville Can Build Consumer Trust
Jan 9, 2019 7:50:19 PM / by Larry Julius
In a recent article, Small Business Builds Trust By Advertising on Fayetteville Radio, Walter White, Vice President of Lumbee River EMC, was asked why his company has been advertising on Fayetteville radio non-stop for 16 years. "The local on-air personalities are like gods in the community," he says. "They have earned the trust and reflect the values of their listeners.”
Results of new survey* show, in fact, radio is the most trusted medium in America. Decidedly, so. Here is what the survey found:
More people trust radio than any other medium. When broken down, radio is:
+81% more trustworthy than cable TV
+27% more trustworthy than network TV
+36% more trustworthy than public TV/radio
Two times more trustworthy than social media
8 in 10 people feel radio aligns with their values
75+% of listeners believe radio on-air personalities are more trustworthy than TV personalities
85% of listeners believe radio personalities make radio more real and expressive than other media
80% of listeners feel radio personalities care about their audience and care about “things that matter to me”
Trust Correlates With Reach
Listeners' trust in radio correlates with the medium's extensive reach among Fayettville consumers.
Last week, 288,946 adult consumers tuned to their favorite Fayetteville radio stations. Significantly more than watched area TV stations, read a local newspaper, or connected to streaming audio sites like Pandora or Spotify
Unlike other local media, which tends to skew towards older audiences, Fayetteville radio reaches consumers of all ages. This includes members of Generation X, Y, and Z; Millennials, and Boomers. Everybody.
Fayetteville radio's extensive reach and trust among consumers has contributed to the success of many North Carolina small business owners.
Radio Gives Your Business Credibility
Attorney Nicole Cotton has been advertising on Fayetteville radio since she opened her own firm in 2010.
“I used my radio advertising to build my personal brand,” recalls Ms. Cotton. “I wanted everybody to believe they could talk to me and I would listen. So, I used my own voice in every commercial to tell people that, like my name, Cotton, I was soft enough to listen and to care. But I was also tough enough to get things done.”
In the early days of her practice, Ms. Cotton limited her radio advertising to a single, mass-appeal Fayetteville radio station. “As my practice has diversified, though, I now use multiple stations. I need to go where my clients are listening.”
Recently, another Fayetteville small business owner asked Ms. Cotton’s advice about using local radio. “To be successful, it’s important to let customers know you’re an option. Your competitors are already out there. You need to be on the radio to let the community know you are here and what you do that is unique.”
“Advertising on the radio,” Ms. Cotton concludes, “gives your business credibility.”
Awesome Advice For Fayetteville Small Business Owners
*Sources: AskSuzy Survey December 2018; iHeartMedia "Influencer Marketing," April 2018
Topics: trust
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November 12, 2014 September 17, 2015 liambeattie91
Apps for Good Fellow David helps enhance Plotr’s online experience!
Last month Apps for Good Fellow David had the chance to visit our friends at Plotr. The organisation is home to an exciting platform for young people to discover and explore careers. They were looking for young people to get involved in their user testing programme to inform the new Plotr site.
Never heard of user testing before? It’s the process of website owners watching people using their site to give them a steer on new ideas and to discover where their site is confusing. They ask questions about how to improve the user’s experience and watch their every move from mouse movements to clicks and keystrokes.
After his time with Plotr, we caught up with David to hear all about the day!
What did you do at Plotr?
They asked me to use their interface and look for weaknesses on the website. They observed every move and click and asked me about some icons on the website, which ones I preferred to be more visible etc. We then got into the careers game to test a new version of their second level, which was fun. They also asked me what the terms ‘career’ and ‘job’ mean to me, what I think the difference is and what I’d like to do as a career.
What was the most enjoyable thing?
The game! They have a fun career advice quiz that Iets you discover a career that fits your personality, interest and needs. It’s exciting because it feels like your future is on the line! I was recommended to become a business manager, which I am really interested in becoming! It was also useful to find out more about career steps, salary etc.
David is a member of our Fellows community as a former Apps for Good student
What is the main thing you learned?
I learned to see a website from a different perspective. It helped me understand the process undertaken by people who create websites. When building a website it’s important to keep in mind how people would interact and use it. Being part of this interview showed me how to get this information out of users.
What would you like to do as a career and how would you go about?
I’d like to set up my own start-up company. I am an ideas person and very interested in app and game development. I’m currently considering of doing a course at university in International Management, as I really like traveling! While I’m at school, I’d like to gain more working experience and go to events to talk to people who might be able to help me with my career.
Why would you encourage other Fellows to help as user testers?
Because it’s easy and fun! You learn a lot and get experiences such as seeing a website from a different perspective. It’s also always good to meet new people and they might end up paying you for your input.
About the author: David is 16 years old and an Apps for Good Fellow. He graduated from the Apps for Good course in 2012 with his Award-winning app Beat the Book (an app is designed to turn reading into a fun activity, rewarding students for answering questions set by their teacher with access to a fun game) and just started his first year of college.
If you’re an Apps for Good Fellow and are interested in helping exciting tech companies with doing some user testing, drop us an email: fellows@appsforgood.org.
Previous Our impact in 2013/14
Next Apps for Good behind the scenes: Meet Rabya – our new Fellows Community Manager!
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Salon Price
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January 2020 update
If you can't see this e-mail properly, view it online
Dear Visitor
STAND TOGETHER: update 5 Jan 2020
As we enter the New Year we wanted to keep everyone updated on progress with the Stand Together campaign to raise funds to help with the re-build of the clubhouse.
In the six short months since the campaign was launched, a great deal of activity has been generated. Thank you to everybody who has offered your ideas, enthusiasm, help and support. We are delighted to announce that the total of funds in the bank as of today stands at £10,141.46. This is the result of a terrific effort and we are gearing up now for the next push – watch this space.
The sale of bricks has given the campaign a big boost. Brian Martin has done much of the work on this and continues to collect monies promised. Rod’s bingo raised a tidy sum and was another good evening – thank you Rod. Two Under-7 teams ran sponsored goal events and their contributions have been gratefully banked – thank you boys! We also received a donation of £100 from supporters of Curzon Ashton following their recent visit to St James Park – this was a fantastic gesture.
Some small sums remain to be banked from sales of calendars and web-sales of merchandise but in any case, breaking the £10k barrier marks great progress.
The club hopes to announce very soon progress in its insurance settlement after the fire following long, difficult and protracted dealings with the insurers. This will hopefully help to clarify next steps in terms of what kind of structure can be afforded and how the fund-raising by the Stand Together campaign can help.
Once again, thank you to every single person, supporter or resident, who has attended one of the events or contributed in whatever way. Let’s continue to Stand Together!
Stand Together committee
See whats new and ongoing with BTFC football in the community
February Half Term Football Camp
Brackley Town Football Club - 3G Astro Pitch
Monday 17th Feb, Tuesday 18th Feb & Wednesday 19th Feb
Boys and Girls aged 5 – 14 years
10.00am to 3.00pm (collection at 3pm prompt)
Open from 9.30am
£20.00 per session
Book all three for £55.00
READ MORE AND BOOK YOUR PLACE
Brackley Town Football Club run after school football clubs at local primary and secondary schools.
The aim of the sessions is to give your children an introduction to football in a fun safe environment. The sessions will incorporate fun activities based around fundamental movements leading into small sided games.
All of our sessions are led by FA Licensed Coaches who are skilled in providing for young children and young adults.
INCLUSIVE FOOTBALL SESSIONS - maximum age 18
All players, youngsters, males and females, with a learning, physical or sensory impairment / disability should have the opportunity to play football and enjoy the benefits that it can bring
Every other Sunday commencing Sunday 12th January 2020
Sunday 12th January - Sunday 26th January - Sunday 9th February
Sunday 23rd February - Sunday 8th March
Cost per session £2.00
GIRLS FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT CENTRE
Our sessions are for girls of all abilities and aim to support the development of every player. Whether you are a beginner, play for a club or just looking to improve your football skills we would love to see you.
Girls Football Development Centre sessions are on a Friday - Commencing Friday 10th Jan 2020 to Friday 13th March 2020
Session timings as follows:
5-6pm under 12 school year 6 & 7
6-7pm under 16 school year 10 & 11
WILDCATS GIRLS FOOTBALL
SSE Wildcats Girls’ Football Centres from The FA will provide girls aged 5+ from Brackley and the surrounding area with regular opportunities to play football. The initiative offers organised sessions in a fun and engaging environment created exclusively for girls. More than 200 clubs were established throughout England back in 2017 and a further 800 were launched in 2018.
Our SSE Wildcats Girls’ Football session take place on a weekly basis on Saturday mornings and provide a safe environment where girls can try football for the first time. SSE and The FA hope the initiative will inspire participants to engage with football, meet new friends, develop fundamental skills, learn new things and create the foundation for a lifelong love of football.
Wildcats sessions take place on Saturday mornings from 9am till 10am.
An Evening with Kit Symons
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Tag: Chad
Today’s Saint; S. Francis Caracciolo, Confessor
St Francis Caracciolo Confessor; Comm. Feria in the Octave of the Ascension: Missa “Factum est” A medical crisis that proved to be a false alarm changed the life of this 16th-century saint. At age 22, Francis developed a troublesome skin disease resembling leprosy—one of the most dreaded diseases of the day. He vowed that if…
Today’s Saint; S. Philip Neri C.O. Confessor
St Philip Neri C.O. Confessor, Apostle of Rome Saint Philip Neri, Italian San Filippo Neri, (born July 21, 1515, Florence [Italy]—died May 26, 1595, Rome; canonized 1622; feast day May 26), Italian priest and one of the outstanding mystics during the Counter-Reformation and founder of the Congregation of the Oratory (now the Institute of the…
Today’s Saint; S. Chad, Bishop & Confessor
St Chad, Bishop & Confessor, Apostle to Mercia Born: c.AD 623 in Northumbria Abbot of Lastingham Bishop of York Bishop of Lichfield Died: 2nd March AD 672 at Lichfield, Staffordshire St. Chad, or Ceadda, was the youngest of the four brothers: Cedd, Cynebil, Celin and Chad, all eminent priests. Despite attempts to claim him as…
Carissimi: Today’s Mass; S. Chad, Bishop & Confessor
St Chad, Bishop & Confessor, Apostle to Mercia; Commemoration of the Thursday after Ash Wednesday: Missa “Sacerdotes tui“ St Chad was the first bishop of Mercia and Lindsey at Lichfield. He was the brother of Cedd, whom he succeeded as Abbot of Lastingham, North Yorkshire, and a disciple of Aidan who sent him to Ireland…
St Chad, Bishop & Confessor, Apostle to Mercia: Missa “Sacerdotes tui“ [Transferred from 02/03] St Chad was the first bishop of Mercia and Lindsey at Lichfield. He was the brother of Cedd, whom he succeeded as Abbot of Lastingham, North Yorkshire, and a disciple of Aidan who sent him to Ireland as part of his…
St Chad, Bishop & Confessor, Apostle to Mercia; Comm. Saturday of Lent II: Missa “Sacerdotes tui“ St Chad was the first bishop of Mercia and Lindsey at Lichfield. He was the brother of Cedd, whom he succeeded as Abbot of Lastingham, North Yorkshire, and a disciple of Aidan who sent him to Ireland as part of…
The Prisoner of the Vatican spectator.org/the-prisoner-o… 13 hours ago
If you receive this call 'hang up immediately', warn police theargus.co.uk/news/18171349.… 14 hours ago
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Jazz, Up from the Underground
By Jonanna Widner | February 22, 2011 | 0
In a town like Portland, blessedly overflowing with indie rock bands, sometimes jazz gets overlooked. Portland actually has quite a strong jazz scene, and, as befitting our unconventional little burg, that scene is home to a creative substratum that likes to push the boundaries of the genre.
Why the Wiyos?
We told you that all our McMenamins Music Tours were about to kick it into high gear, and we weren’t kidding. Tonight, the Wiyos kick off their Small Batch Tour (which will hit three properties in two days!) at the Kennedy School.
There’s old-school, and there’s way old-school, and the Wiyos definitely fit the latter. This crew of modern Tin Pan Alley crooners seems to hail from an era when newsboys crowed from street corners and a fedora topped every head. These anachronists somehow manage to infuse their songbook -clearly taken from the popular music of the 1920s and ’30s, with an almost imperceptible modern-ness. The result is both a nostalgic look at the past and an eye on the future.
Y La Bamba Kicks Off this Week
I challenge anyone to really describe Y La Bamba (currently on the Great Northwest Music Tour) accurately. This band is so original, so genre-bending, so strange (in a good way), they defy the usual modus operandi of lazy music writers everywhere: comparison. Comparing this Portland group to any other band is simply impossible.
So we’ll have to do the best we can, with snippets of aural imagery and forays into the band’s personality. So let’s try: Moody, melodic, multi-cultural post-folk (that is, folk with a bit of a backbeat -which in this case feels like a melancholy heartbeat) centered on singer Luzelena Mendoza’s swirl of a voice. No, “swirl” is too weak of a word. It’s strong and feminine, like a Frida Kahlo painting, this voice. No, not like a painting — like Frida herself.
We’re Kicking Our Tours Into High Gear
Spring is, if not exactly around the corner, at least within a few flips of the calendar page. What does that mean for us? Well now’s the time of year we really ratchet up our McMenamins Music Tours. But you may be wondering: WHAT ARE THESE MCMENAMINS TOURS, ANYWAY?
Well, we’ll tell ya:
Our Faves the Avetts, at the Grammys!
We here at McMenamins music have a special affection for the Avett Brothers. After all, we have quite a history with these fellas: They’ve traveled our properties as a Great Northwest Music Tour headliner, played four Crystal Ballroom shows, and absolutely tore it UP at last summer’s Edgefield Concerts on the Lawn (side note: Avett fans are very good tippers. Thanks, y’all!).
So we couldn’t be more pleased to spread the word that our favorite heartfelt stomp-rock-country-roots band will be playing at the Grammys this year! The Avetts will be sharing the stage with Bob Dylan, no less (another Edgefield Concert star from last summer, by the way) and Mumford and Sons, who of course took over the airwaves this past year.
Click through and see some awesome exclusive pics!
A Call from the Past
By Lyle Hehn | February 5, 2011 | 0
Our McMenamins artists having been painting new historically based panels for the Crystal Hotel (opening in May 2011) for months now. Below, artist Lyle Hehn gives a slightly mysterious explanation of one of his latest pieces…
OPERA = FUN
By Jonanna Widner | February 3, 2011 | 0
The word “opera” doesn’t usually conjure up the words “light-hearted comedy,” “kids fare” or even “fun.” The art form, succumbing to the slow change in taste over the centuries, is nowadays often seen as a stodgy old art form, reserved for stodgy old people, to be performed in ornate (but still stodgy!) old opera houses.
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West Covington: The strength of the team
by Tyler Baker a month ago 1 min read
My guest this week is former East Carolina baseball pitcher West Covington, who reminds us that, just because you leave college athletics, doesn't mean you can't be part of a high-performing, satisfying team.
West is a financial adviser with Plancentric Financial Group, a financial services provider within Northwestern Mutual. West took his business degree and pursued a path that a lot of athletes try: sales. But life as a solo financial rep was lonely, and West missed the camaraderie, accountability, and shared wins of being on a team. And so he made a change and found a group that would support him in the same way his baseball team had.
West was honest with me about the challenges that face athletes going into sales... but he's also a huge believer in the skills athletes have to be successful in this challenging field.
In my conversation with West Covington:
Hear the one piece of advice West has for his younger self that might have accelerated his sales career.
Learn West's breakthrough strategy for professional networking (I'll give you a hint... it's not on LinkedIn.)
Bonus: hear me reminisce about my own experiences in Northwestern Mutual's grueling internship program... seriously one of the hardest things I've done.
Check out West's stats from Gulf Coast State and East Carolina. Told you we'd share videos from West's dogpile stories:
There's West at 2:07 on the left side of the screen
West gets a shout-out in this post-game interview, too.
And don't forget about the list of resources that West mentioned in our interview:
Measure What Matters by John Doerr
The Energy Bus: 10 Rules to Fuel Your Life, Work, and Team with Positive Energy by Jon Gordon
The Start, Stop, Continue technique - check out this video about how you can apply this technique to any growth-related topic.
Blair Berry: Staying memorable in a crowded field
Brett Bartles: Quick pivots and strategic thinking
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Kate Middleton gets back to nature in a $3,000 floral dress: Shop the look for less
Kate Mendonca
Shopping Editor
Yahoo Canada Style September 10, 2019
Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge attends the "Back to Nature" festival at RHS Garden Wisley on September 10, 2019 in Woking, England. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)
The Duchess of Cambridge is enjoying the great outdoors once more, this time in honour of her third Back to Nature play garden at The Royal Horticultural Society's garden at Wisley.
The mother of three attended the Back to Nature festival on September 10 to unveil her latest garden design, which “celebrates the value of communities to our wellbeing and marks the culmination of the RHS garden project.”
🚜 At the #BacktoNature Festival The Duchess of Cambridge was joined by @The_RHS Ambassador Mary Berry, along with many of the charities and organisations The Duchess has met over the last eight years, who are all working every day to make our families and communities stronger pic.twitter.com/aRH6chOhzp
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) September 10, 2019
The 37-year-old royal spent time playing with children among the garden before heading on a tractor ride with fellow RHS Ambassador, Mary Berry of The Great British Bakeoff.
Kate is a strong proponent of children’s health and wellness, championing early years programs, children’s mental health, and the importance of sports and the outdoors, to which she brought attention in a short speech at the day’s event.
Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge attends the "Back to Nature" festival at RHS Garden Wisley on September 10, 2019 in Woking, England. (Photo by Samir Hussein/WireImage)
“As many of you know, I was invited by the RHS to co-design a garden for families and children for this year’s Chelsea Flower Show and Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival,” the Duchess said. “It’s been the most amazing experience and I can’t thank the RHS enough for giving me this wonderful opportunity.”
“I was passionate about creating a garden that inspired children and adults alike to get back to nature and reap the positive mental and physical health benefits that it can bring,” she added.
Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge attends the "Back to Nature" festival at RHS Garden Wisley on September 10, 2019 in Woking, England. (Photo by Karwai Tang/WireImage)
Kate looked radiant in a $3,000 floral midi dress by designer Emilia Wickstead, which she paired with her go-to wedges, this time from British high street retailer Monsoon.
She also added another affordable touch to her outfit with a pair of sold-out gold filigree earrings, which retailed for just $12 from Accessorize.
If you’re a fan of Kate’s English garden attire but aren’t willing to spend two months’ rent on it, scroll through to find a few of our favourite affordable alternatives for a Duchess-inspired look.
Emilia Wickstead Aurora Dress
Image via Net-a-Porter.
SHOP IT: Net-a-Porter, $2,970 ($2,255 USD)
Levete Room floral maxi dress
Image via ASOS.
SHOP IT: ASOS, $273
Faithfull The Brand Maggie Midi Dress
Image via Moda Operandi.
SHOP IT: Moda Operandi, $250
H&M Pleated Wrap Dress
Image via H&M.
SHOP IT: H&M, $99
Stine Goya Baily Long Sleeve Midi Shirtdress
Image via Nordstrom.
SHOP IT: Nordstrom, $420
Chaps Floral Cotton Fit-&-Flare Dress
Image via Hudson's Bay.
SHOP IT: Hudson’s Bay, $80
We are committed to finding you the best products at the best prices. At times, Yahoo Canada may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page.
Let us know what you think by commenting below and tweeting @YahooStyleCA! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
#royals
#kate-middleton
Where to shop the Adidas x Ivy Park Collection in Canada before it's gone
These parkas are guaranteed to get you through the coldest winter days
The 'invincible' winter boot you'll be seeing everywhere this year
Kate Middleton whips up milkshakes in affordable Zara dress
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CancerData
Crude Rates
Standardised Rates
Index of Cancer Survival
Brain, meningeal and other primary CNS tumours
Ovary, fallopian tube and primary peritoneal carcinomas
Testicular tumours including post-pubertal teratomas
Routes To Diagnosis
Diagnostic Intervals
CAS Explorer
Have any comments, feedback or questions? Click here to contact us.
Mortality > Standardised Rates
Tumour Class
Number of Deaths
per 100,000 person-years
@ 95%
2017 Persons All England 921 Malignant C00-C97 (ex. C44)
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2001-2003 2002-2004 2003-2005 2004-2006 2005-2007 2006-2008 2007-2009 2008-2010 2009-2011 2010-2012 2011-2013 2012-2014 2013-2015 2014-2016 2015-2017 2001-2005 2002-2006 2003-2007 2004-2008 2005-2009 2006-2010 2007-2011 2008-2012 2009-2013 2010-2014 2011-2015 2012-2016 2013-2017
Male Female Persons
All 0-24 25-49 50-59 60-69 70-79 80+
Tumour sites
C00-C97 (ex. C44): Malignant C00-C14: Lip, Oral Cavity and Pharynx C00-C08: Lip and Oral C00: Malignant Neoplasm of Lip C01: Malignant Neoplasm of Base of Tongue C02: Malignant Neoplasm of Other/Unspecified Tongue C03: Malignant Neoplasm of Gum C04: Malignant Neoplasm of Floor of Mouth C05: Malignant Neoplasm of Palate C06: Malignant Neoplasm of Other/Unspecified Mouth C07: Malignant Neoplasm of Parotid Gland C08: Malignant Neoplasm of Other/Unspecified Major Salivary Glands C09: Malignant Neoplasm of Tonsil C10: Malignant Neoplasm of Oropharynx C11: Malignant Neoplasm of Nasopharynx C12: Malignant Neoplasm of Pyriform Sinus C13: Malignant Neoplasm of Hypopharynx C14: Malignant Neoplasm of Other/Ill Defined Sites In Lip, Oral Cavity and Pharynx C15-C26: Digestive Organs C15: Malignant Neoplasm of Oesophagus C16: Malignant Neoplasm of Stomach C17-C26: Small/Large Intestine and Anus C17: Malignant Neoplasm of Small Intestine C18-C21: Colorectal and Anus C18-C20: Colorectal C18: Malignant Neoplasm of Colon C19-C20: Rectum/Rectosigmoid Junction C19: Malignant Neoplasm of Rectosigmoid Junction C20: Malignant Neoplasm of Rectum C21: Malignant Neoplasm of Anus C22: Malignant Neoplasm of Liver and Intrahepatic Bile Ducts C23-C24: Gallbladder and Other/Unspecified Parts of Biliary Tract C23: Malignant Neoplasm of Gallbladder C24: Malignant Neoplasm of Other/Unspecified Parts of Biliary Tract C25: Malignant Neoplasm of Pancreas C26: Malignant Neoplasm of Other/Ill Defined Digestive Organs C30-C39: Respiratory and Intrathoracic Organs C30: Malignant Neoplasm of Nasal Cavity/Middle Ear C31: Malignant Neoplasm of Accessory Sinuses C32: Malignant Neoplasm of Larynx C33-C34: Trachea, Bronchus and Lung C33: Malignant Neoplasm of Trachea C34: Malignant Neoplasm of Lung and Bronchus C37: Malignant Neoplasm of Thymus C38: Malignant Neoplasm of Heart, Mediastinum and Pleura C39: Malignant Neoplasm of Other/Ill Defined Intrathoracic/Respiratory System C40-C41: Bone and Articular Cartilage C40: Malignant Neoplasm of Bone of Limbs C41: Malignant Neoplasm of Other/Unspecified Bone C43: Malignant Melanoma of Skin C45-C49: Mesothelial and Soft Tissue C45: Mesothelioma C46: Kaposi's Sarcoma C47: Malignant Neoplasm of Peripheral Nerves and Automatic Nervous System C48: Malignant Neoplasm of Retroperitoneum and Peritoneum C49: Malignant Neoplasm of Other Soft Tissue C50: Malignant Neoplasm of Breast C51-C58: Female Genital Organs C51: Malignant Neoplasm of Vulva C52: Malignant Neoplasm of Vagina C53: Malignant Neoplasm of Cervix Uteri C54-C55: Uterus (Body and Unspecified) C54: Malignant Neoplasm of Corpus Uteri C55: Malignant Neoplasm of Uterus, Part Unspecified C56-C57: Ovary C56: Malignant Neoplasm of Ovary C57: Malignant Neoplasm of Other/Unspecified Female Genital Organs C58: Malignant Neoplasm of Placenta C60-C63: Male Genital Organs C60: Malignant Neoplasm of Penis C61: Malignant Neoplasm of Prostate C62: Malignant Neoplasm of Testis C63: Malignant Neoplasm of Other/Unspecified Male Genital Organs C64-C68: Urinary Tract C64: Malignant Neoplasm of Kidney, Except Renal Pelvis C65: Malignant Neoplasm of Renal Pelvis C66: Malignant Neoplasm of Ureter C67: Malignant Neoplasm of Bladder C68: Malignant Neoplasm of Other/Unspecified Urinary Organs C69: Malignant Neoplasm of Eye C70-C72: Brain and Other Parts of Central Nervous System C70: Malignant Neoplasm of Meninges C71: Malignant Neoplasm of Brain C72: Malignant Neoplasm of Spinal Cord/Other CNS C73-C75: Thyroid and Other Endocrine Glands C73: Malignant Neoplasm of Thyroid Gland C74: Malignant Neoplasm of Adrenal Gland C75: Malignant Neoplasm of Other Endocrine Glands C76-C80: Ill-Defined, Secondary and Unspecified Sites C76: Malignant Neoplasm of Ill Defined Sites C77-C80: Cancer of Unknown Primary C77: Secondary/Unspecified Malignancy of Lymph Node C78: Secondary/Unspecified Malignancy of Respiratory and Digestive Organs C79: Secondary/Unspecified Malignancy of Other Sites C80: Malignant Neoplasm Without Specification of Site C81-C96: Lymphoid, Haematopoietic and Related Tissue C81: Hodgkin's Disease C82-C85: Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma C82: Follicular Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma C83: Diffuse Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma C84: Peripheral and Cutaneous T Cell Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma C85: Other/Unspecified Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma C88: Malignant Immunoproliferative Disease C90: Multiple Myeloma and Malignant Plasma Cell Neoplasms C91-C95: Leukaemia C91: Lymphoid Leukaemia C92: Myeloid Leukaemia C93: Monocytic Leukaemia C94: Other Specified Leukaemia C95: Unspecified Leukaemia C96: Other/Unspecified Haematological Malignancy C97: Malignant Neoplasms of Independent (Primary) Multiple Sites
England National Regional
ncras
National Cancer Registration & Analysis Service, Public Health England
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Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research
New Request for Proposal 2020
Research Outcomes
HIV/AIDS Basics
History of HIV/AIDS
Can You Do Lunch?
AIDSbeat
Bloor Street Entertains
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CANFAR donor Tristan Michela’s generosity keeps on growing.
Over the past year and a half, Tristan has been directing his support to the Legacy Fund, which CANFAR established in 2011 to channel funding directly towards HIV prevention for gay men. Through this fund, CANFAR provides funding grants in increments of $25,000 and $160,000 to the highest quality researchers. Tristan’s $20,000 Matching Gift opportunity for donations directed to the Legacy Fund to date has resulted in $40,000 for the initiative. Tristan is CanDeal’s Executive Vice President Responsible for Strategic Growth and Global Sales Initiatives in Toronto.
Tristan has taken on a significant role with CANFAR’s work on Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), a drug that can be taken daily by at-risk individuals to prevent HIV. PrEP is one of the Legacy Fund’s core initiatives and Tristan has been working closely with Andrew Pringle CM, CANFAR Chair, and Dr. Stanley Read FRCPC, FAAP, Chair of the CANFAR Scientific Advisory Committee on the research and development phase of the drug, which CANFAR is funding as a three-year collaboration with the Ontario HIV Treatment Network (OHTN) and REACH 2.0. This particular project is examining the efficacy, impact and scalability of the roll out of PrEP in Ontario. This important initiative will inform clinical, community and policy decisions with respect to the drug.
Tristan continues to serve on the CANFAR Board of Directors and on the Executive Committee as he has for more than a decade. He is a driving force for Bloor Street Entertains, which he chaired in 2013 and served as Co-Chair in 2011 and 2016, in addition to leading the Legacy Fund. In recognition of Tristan’s extraordinary contribution of time, passion, leadership and resources, CANFAR awarded him with Chairman’s Award in December 2015. The Chairman’s Award recognizes an individual or organization that has made an outstanding commitment in support of CANFAR, and whose commitment has resulted in an increased awareness of, and/or financial contribution to CANFAR.
CANFAR looks forward to Tristan’s contribution over the next year which will bring an additional $10,000 to the Legacy Fund in the 2017-2018 fiscal year, totaling $30,000 as a matching gift. CANFAR would like to take this opportunity to thank Tristan for his passion, generosity and philanthropic efforts.
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Model of Complications of NIDDM: II. Analysis of the health benefits and cost-effectiveness of treating NIDDM with the goal of normoglycemia
Richard C Eastman, MD,
Jonathan C Javitt, MD,
William H Herman, MD,
Erik J Dasbach, PHD,
Catherine Copley-Merriman, MBA,
William Maier, PHD,
Fred Dong,
Diane Manninen, PHD,
Arthur S Zbrozek, MBA,
James Kotsanos, MD,
Sanford A Garfield, PHD and
Maureen Harris, PHD
Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, Metabolic Diseases Indianapolis, Indiana
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Bethesda, Maryland Department of Opthalmology Indianapolis, Indiana
Worthen Center for Eye Care Research, Georgetown University, School of Medicine Washington, D.C. Department of Internal Medicine Indianapolis, Indiana
Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Michigan, Epidemiology and Outcomes Research Indianapolis, Indiana
Parke-Davis Inc. Ann Arbor, Michigan Merck Inc. Indianapolis, Indiana
Bluebell, Pennsylvania Battelle Inc. Indianapolis, Indiana
Seattle, Washington Bayer Inc. Indianapolis, Indiana
West Haven, Connecticut Eli Lilly Inc. Indianapolis, Indiana
Address correspondence and reprint requests to Richard C. Eastman, MD, Director, Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolic Diseases, NIDDK, Building 31, Room 9A16, 31 Center Dr. MSC 2560, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-2560.
Diabetes Care 1997 May; 20(5): 735-744. https://doi.org/10.2337/diacare.20.5.735
OBJECTIVE To analyze the health benefits and economics of treating NIDDM with the goal of normoglycemia.
RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Incidence-based simulation model of NIDDM was used. Hazard rates for complications were adjusted for glycemia using risk gradients from the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial. Treatment costs were estimated from national survey data and clinical trials. Incremental costs and benefits were expressed in present value dollars (3% discount rate). Life-years were adjusted for quality of life, yielding quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs).
RESULTS Comprehensive treatment of NIDDM that maintains an HbA1c value of 7.2% is predicted to reduce the cumulative incidence of blindness, end-stage renal disease, and lower-extremity amputation by 72, 87, and 67%, respectively. Cardiovascular disease risk increased by 3% (no effect of treating glycemia is assumed). Life expectancy increased 1.39 years. The cost of treating hyperglycemia increased by almost twofold, which is partially offset by reductions in the cost of complications. The estimated incremental cost/QALY gained is $16,002. Treatment is more cost-effective for those with longer glycemic exposure (earlier onset of diabetes), minorities, and those with higher HbA1c under standard care.
CONCLUSIONS The incremental effectiveness of treating NIDDM with the goal of normoglycemia is estimated to be ∼ $16,000/QALY gained, which is in the range of interventions that are generally considered cost-effective.
Received July 29, 1996.
Accepted October 28, 1996.
Copyright © 1997 by the American Diabetes Association
May 1997, 20(5)
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Richard C Eastman, Jonathan C Javitt, William H Herman, Erik J Dasbach, Catherine Copley-Merriman, William Maier, Fred Dong, Diane Manninen, Arthur S Zbrozek, James Kotsanos, Sanford A Garfield, Maureen Harris
Diabetes Care May 1997, 20 (5) 735-744; DOI: 10.2337/diacare.20.5.735
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Voters Should Reject Ballot Measure 26-203
Cascade Policy Institute October 23, 2019 0
By Eric Fruits, Ph.D.
By now, Oregon voters have received their ballots for the November 5 election. One of the items is Measure 26-203: a $475 million bond measure by Metro, the regional government for the Portland area.
Metro wants the money so it can buy more land for its so-called parks and nature program, a program that has shifted from providing parks for people to more vague and speculative objectives.
In Metro’s own words, the initial promise in 1995 was to “provide areas for walking, picnicking and other outdoor recreation.” This year’s measure now gives only passing mention to parks. And, it makes no promises of new parks, only preservation and maintenance of existing parks. In terms of bang for the buck, that’s a lot of bucks but not much bang.
Despite Metro’s earlier promises to provide parks for people, the agency has opened only seven parks and natural areas to the public over the last quarter-century. In some cases, promised parks never arrived.
Metro has about $30 million still sitting in its parks and nature bond funds, and it has an operating levy that runs through 2023. Voters should reject Measure 26-203 and urge Metro to use the money it already has to turn some of the land it’s already acquired into the parks that people demand.
Eric Fruits, Ph.D. is Vice President of Research at Cascade Policy Institute, Oregon’s free market public policy research organization.
10-23-19-Voters_Should_Reject_Ballot_Measure_26-203PDF
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← So much for defenses adapting.
Maybe Paul Johnson is a genius. →
Observations from the 45: a wild time was had by all.
It was with the third failed extra point attempt of the day that I realized the game had lost its damned mind.
I mean, how many Georgia games have you seen with three blown extra points? Later, I started worrying that Tennessee would tie things up and send the game into an overtime that would never end. It was that screwy. Momentum changes that were both so frequent and sudden they caused whiplash, hair pulling mistakes and killer play making – basically, you couldn’t afford to look away or you’d miss something big. And the way it turned out, every bit mattered.
In thirty-plus years, I’m not sure I’ve ever seen a crazier game between the hedges. But in the end the Dawgs did walk away with the win. It could have been worse.
And now, on to the post-mortem.
Bobo saw what a lot of people saw Florida do successfully – attack the perimeter of the Tennessee defense – and went after that with a vengeance. That first drive was masterful in making UT have to worry about defending the width of the field.
I really wish Burnette hadn’t been flagged for a false start on Georgia’s next series, because I really wanted to see where that play, with a fly sweep run one way and Gurley going the other, was heading.
The pure joy that Marc Deas, who quit the team earlier this year and then came back, showed after his punt block was great to see.
Seventy or so passing plays and not a single penalty for offensive holding? How is that possible?
The increase in athleticism on Georgia’s defense with the return of Ogletree and Rambo was noticeable (that first interception, for example). But so was the rust and uncertainty that comes with adjusting to the repositioning. Way, way too many busted assignments. And on Tennessee’s last touchdown of the day, Rambo was still facing the sideline looking for instruction when the ball was snapped.
Yeah, take out the special team snafus and turnovers that turned the last five minutes of the first half into a nightmare and the defense doesn’t look so bad. But that’s no excuse for the shoddy tackling I saw throughout the game. And it doesn’t explain Tennessee’s success on third downs.
I’m not sure Georgia ever successfully defended Justin Hunter. Fortunately, Bray either ignored the short, easy stuff Georgia was giving him, or overthrew Hunter a few times.
Catch the damned ball, Woot. Especially that last drop.
There was no excuse for that Patterson touchdown. None.
I’m going to go out on a limb here and predict that Malcolm Mitchell’s career as a punt returner is at an end.
I’m willing to cut Aaron Murray a little slack on his two turnovers. The pick-six came on a tipped pass and the fumble came on a well-timed delayed blitz when the offense was in Predictable Bobo mode. But the main reason I’m generous is that he played so well the rest of the time. Outside of looking out of sync on a couple of throws intended for Bennett on one of those fourth-quarter series that went nowhere, he was totally in control of his game.
Great play from the tight ends, both blocking and catching.
I think people are more impressed with Tyler Bray’s arm than with Tyler Bray, the quarterback. He loves the deep ball and you can count on him throwing a few balls every game that make you go wow, but he deserves his reputation for not handling pressure well. Three straight series with Bray turnovers to end the game testifies to that.
Sanders Commings, of all people, with two interceptions. And both were tough catches. If he can hang on to the ball like that, I like the secondary’s chances to do a lot more ball hawking this year.
That being said, the most misleading stat of the night had to be Georgia finishing +1 in turnover margin. All three of Georgia’s turnovers led to Vol touchdowns. Only one of the Dawg recoveries led to a score.
I’m running out of superlatives for Gurshall. But I get a kick out of Marshall’s one-armed windmilling while he gets his balance. And when it stops, look out.
The o-line performed pretty well. They dominated early, but got a little overwhelmed late when UT started sending the house. And I didn’t notice any painful moments from Theus.
I think Grantham was a little surprised by how well Tennessee’s offensive line played. He almost waited a little too late to start applying extra pressure.
And I also think that Tennessee’s pace on offense proved difficult for Georgia to handle. That combined with some of the defensive rust that came from the rejiggering the defensive personnel left the Dawg defense on its heels in the second half too much for comfort.
I didn’t like Bobo pulling in the reins when the field position went against Georgia. He made it too easy for Sunseri to gamble by loading up the box. But he deserves a lot of credit for pushing the drive that led to the tying field goal at the end of the first half. That turned out to be a huge score.
Speaking of which, how do you screw up two extra points (sure, one was blocked, but the trajectory on it looked low) and nail a clutch fifty-yard field goal?
After the first drive, did Georgia’s offense ever hold the ball for three minutes or more on any series the rest of the way?
I said after the Buffalo game that the Dawgs bringing their “C” game could beat a MAC team by three TDs. It looks like their “C” game was good enough to win a nail biter at home against a mediocre SEC opponent. It’s obviously not going to get the job done against a top ten SEC team on the road.
When it’s not screwing up or pulling in the reins because of field position concerns, the offense looks pretty unstoppable. But special teams are shaky, to say the least. And while I think the defense will sort things out as things settle in, you wonder if that will happen quickly enough. South Carolina’s offense presents very different problems from Tennessee’s and another week of getting up to speed could prove fatal.
On the other hand, it’s not like the ‘Cocks have faced a team with as many threats on offense as Georgia has, so they’ve got their own concerns.
I dunno, I’m starting to think that Columbia may come down to how many times Georgia’s offense has to start inside its own ten.
139 responses to “Observations from the 45: a wild time was had by all.”
I watched the USCe Kentucky game and now my big concern returns to the O line. I watched Clowney and friends pummel the Kentucky o line in the second half. I don’t think Theus and Gates have faced ends that good yet and I am truly worried. UGA will have to get something good out of Gurshall or be in trouble. Murray won’t have much time to stand and decide. D will have to play better too, as I don’t see us getting 40+ on the SC defense. Special teams? Arrrgh is all I can say.
Amen – their D line will give us fits. Maybe we’ll get the same crew from Saturday and we can just hold all game. Otherwise, I don’t expect to see us working too many downfield plays.
I had to work yesterday and didn’t get to watch any games (tivo’d our game) but are we talking about the same USC team that trailed Kentucky in the 3rd quarter and pulled away at the end? Sorry, I know they are good but I just don’t buy what they are selling yet. I guess it’s just our job as UGA fans to expect the worst.
Watch the replay. Clowney beat their left tackle like a drum in the second half. USC just slept through the first half, like UGA against FAU.
I conjure the image of Theus going against Clowney (or even Taylor, for what it’s worth) and it just plain hurts my gray matter. This next game calls out for something that has yet to be unveiled by the offense: the screen game! Think of Marshall out there in the flats with some effective WR blocking. Then, as that starts to gain traction, jam Gurley up the gut on some draw action. Well, whatever the braintrust works up for the Dawg offense playing a super-hyped style devoid of ball security will likely spell doom in Columbia(e).
THE RETURN OF THE SPRINT DRAW, BABY
I can see it now.
The most troubling sight was the three successive runs on UGA’s own goal line. I know that Marshall and Gurley can each break loose as they showed last night, but playing conservatively at that point flipped the momentum to the Vols and led to being tied at the half. Even throwing a pick 6 in that situation may not have been worse than what happened. I wouldn’t say that Morgan has the yips yet but he needs to be practicing PAT over and over as it looks like he has distance down. He did looked as surprised as anyone else when he hit the 50 yarder though.
This, plus pretty much everything the Senator wrote above. I wonder if the back up place kicker ought to be doing the extra points and letting Morgan handle the FG’s? Surely our back up kicker can knock down PATs with regularity, right?
I was thinking the same thing
And he smacked the Holy He** out of that FG. I think it counts from 60 yds.
I was disappointed in our defense yesterday. It seemed like several times in the second half the players were lining up late and looking to the sidelines when Tennessee snapped the ball. Got to get better to beat Carolina.
One thing that was really obvious was just how slow the Tennessee secondary is. On both Marshall touchdowns and Gurley’s long touchdown, the safeties had angles but Gurshall blew past them every time. Probably the biggest indictment, though, was on the 2nd Bennett touchdown where he took a slant 30 yards untouched. Bennett’s not slow but he ain’t Malcolm Mitchell (aka is white).
Will Pinner (@wpinner)
“Gym Rat.” The term you’re looking for it “gym rat.”
Actually, Bennett is pretty fast…not quite as fast as Mitchell or Marshall, but he can move with anyone in the SEC.
Fans around me were getting down on Bobo a bit. I didn’t see it. I’m not sure what the right plays to call are when you’re starting inside the ten. He’s an idiot either way, right? If we go five wide and give up another fumble sack for six points that’s just stupid. If we run up the middle and try to get a little room. That’s predictable. Folks – please dazzle me with some playcalls you’d like to see us run from the endzone. Hey- what about that 44 flatback rooskie?
Some dude in the stands near me was whining about how predictable we were when we handed off to Marshall on his last long TD.
I sometimes wonder if Bobo gets restricted parameters from Richt near the end of the game. I will agree that it’s hard to watch us sputter in the end of games, but running the ball and grinding the clock late in the game is my preference over spreading the field in the 4th quarter.
But spreading the field and mixing passes and runs at several points of attack is how we scored 51 points on last night. The drives where we stalled were when we were paralyzed by fear and ran Marshall into the pack. Yes, Marshall can run through the pack, but only if there is a threat of a pass or a sweep or whatever to keep the other side’s D honest.
I see no reason to stop doing what is working (in this case, using all our weapons on offense, a great mix of passes and runs) because of the clock, unless you truly have the game completely put away – I mean like three scores with five minutes left.
Not making first downs is what gives the other guys a chance to climb back into the game. It’s what gives them hope, and shifts momentum. Every time we move the chains, we can figure on another two minutes of clock running out. Last night, passing was working because running was working, and running was working because passing was working.
But if we don’t run our best offense, regardless of where we are on the field, then we don’t make first downs. That is just intuitive to me. Run the offense that has the best chance of making first downs, the same offense you’ve been running all night. Keep the ball away from them, and move the chains to run the clock.
Perhaps the biggest advantage is you send the message to your team and the rest of the cfb world that there is no play the GA Bulldogs are afraid to run because of field position. We are bold and confident. This does not mean embrace the strategy of running more often on passing downs and passing more often on running downs, which I believe we have been guilty of going overboard on from time to time, only that we will not stop playing our game because we’re afraid we might screw up.
Did I beat that horse sufficiently to death? 🙂
Nailed it my friend. We have, almost, an unstoppable offense. It will not be shut down by anyone but ourselves. I don’t mean to say we will continue to average almost 50 with the schedule coming up, but we are a DC’s nightmare with all the holes they must plug. Unless we do as you say, and go one dimensional. We don’t have the OL to successfully run the ball into the middle of the line when they know it is coming. And if I did, it would be with Boo.
Very good posts by both of you guys.
I understand what all of you are saying. I’ll point out that Tennessee’s longest drive of the first half was 58 yards for a field goal – and somehow they hung 30 on us. The coaches have to look at what we’re doing to beat ourselves and stop the bleeding.
No issue with the call to improve ball security and handling of punts/kickofs that bit us, but allowing TN to extend drives with 3rd down conversions while never penetrating their line is not flukey, it is just getting manhandled. I agree most of that was in the 2nd half but the defense could get more rest by making some plays on 3rd down. Hard to ask the offense to slow down their scoring drives.
I know we came into this year with a lot of confidence in the defense based on last season and the players we had returning but, except for the Vandy game, they have been disappointing. If they can pick their game up, we are going to be a really, really good football team. If the defense is really going to be that porous in pass defense, and get gouged on power runs and QB scrambles, we will not win the East. Some of the criticsm may only be because expectations were so high for them but the truth is, they are performing at a much lower level than the offense. I think they got embarrassed last night and maybe that will be the wake-up call they needed.
Exactly. The offense made the defense look much worse than it actually was with a pick six and the fumles deep in our own territory.
Do that against South Carolina and we’ll have the same result as last year.
Let me amend that:
The offense made the defense look much worse than it actually was with a pick six and the fumbles deep in our own territory.
And the special teams made the whole team look much worse than it actually was.
The irony of fumbling the “b” (the b no less!) as you typed the word “fumbles” was very funny, though!
per ESPN: “That was about Richt could stomach from Mitchell, as he benched him for junior receiver Rhett McGowan, who will now field punts, according to Richt.
“I need him to make good decisions,” Richt said of McGowan, who has fielded two punts for 41 yards this season. “Come up and make the fair catch. I don’t even care if he gets a lot of yards to return. Let’s make good decisions on when to catch it and secure it.””
Richt’s postgame comments pretty much sealed the deal. No more Malcolm Mitchell on punts.
Now, if we could convince the opposing kicker not to kick the ball into the corner at the goal line, we could have something…
One arm windmill. I’ve noticed it.
It is cool isn’t it?
I’m a big fan of the windmill. I’ve wondered what the other team thinks as he’s going by them with that move. If there is ever a collision between him and a safety on a run like that, it will end badly for someone.
I think that windmill further increase his speed and likely distracts the defender.
I remember seeing Knowshon doing the windmill a few times. I think its fair to say that he didn’t have Marshall’s speed though.
Knowshon didn’t have Gurley’s speed either. Those guys are FAST.
IndyDawg
Some say Marshall’s getting his balance. I think he’s winding up to engage a higher gear!
Marshall is field surfing
Anyone else notice that the Jarvis groin issue hasn’t gon away? His pursuit on the busted reverse was scary to watch. Looked like he was in low mo, and he pulled up lame. No question he’s not full strength
Didn’t see that, but Branden Smith loafed on that play. He was jogging toward Patterson because he assumed other players would make the tackle. If you watch the replay, Branden finally accelerates but it was too late. Had he given more effort earlier in the play, he would have been in position to make the tackle. Check the replay and watch #1 Branden Smith and his effort on the play.
I’ve been distinctly under-whelmed with the play of B.Smith through his first four games. Is anyone checking on his baking recipes?
I agree Eli. He is not full speed and that isn’t good for our defense
It’s team that has already shown patches of greatness and still has lots of room for improvement. At this point, I think Georgia has the highest ceiling of any team in the country. Can the Dwags keep the awesome while weeding out the WTFs?
Si. Three deep turnovers pretty much kept TN from getting beat by a ton.
There it is./\
Very funny thread over at Sting Talk
http://www.stingtalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=66854
LOL! It looks like GTU fans are finally getting some perspective on things 🙂
I want to put 60 on them this year
mg4life0331
Funny, some of them want us to as well. In hopes of firing Groh.
70. why not 70.
Richt won’t let it happen. But we can get 60 before the end of the third, I just know it.
My favorite was the pic of the Spaniards hiding in the Running of the Bulls.
This first page of posts almost says it all.
Now that’s funny, I don’t care who you are, that’s funny!
They are in self destruct mode right now, some of them saying Roll Tide and Geaux Tigers.
I am convinced that the refs have been told not to call holding so that there will be a lot of scoring, and therefore, fan interest. I saw Geathers not only get held, but also horse-collared and no flag anywhere. I hate it, because I think it cheapens the game.
I think on the extra points we should either go for two or take a couple of delays to get in our kicker’s range. I think he’ll nail it from the 12 yard line.
Please, no more Malcom on special teams. I don’t want him getting hurt, anyway.
I guess I just didn’t expect SO MUCH “rust and uncertainty” from the defense. I mean, I realize that it’s the first game back for Rambo and Ogletree, but it’s not like they’re a couple of freshmen who just walked out of their dorms for the first time this year and out onto the field against Tennessee. I expected the defense to look a little shaky DURING their suspension, with some first-time starters filling in. But not from a unit that basically played an entire season together last year, and quite successfully at that.
Baccari did gamble on the INT and lose more than once. Perhaps hubris all around explains this whole thing.
It’s not necessarily only Tree and Rambo with the rust and uncertainty. They had been replaced by people who had to move back to other positions. Grantham’s philosophy is to cross-train them so they supposedly know how the whol defense is supposed to operate…yet, obviously, there can be a domino effect of players shuffling positions and it doesn’t take much hesitation to end up with yesterday as a result.
This is a smart observation.
Overall, I think every championship team in college football has to survive a game like this. UT and Dooley saw this as a HUGE game for the program and I think they gave us their 110% best shot while UGA was really looking at this coming week’s game as being the pivotal one. Bottom line, Georgia avoided a slip up against a team that has ruined some big seasons for us in the past.
> To Senator’s comment on Theus, I believe he totally whiffed on his block on Marshall’s fumble which led to him being hit as he was being handed the ball and essentially led to the fumble.
> Getting our punt returns under control has got to be the highest priority for the team. I think we scored on all but one drive that didn’t start within our own 10. I really don’t understand why Brandon Smith has not been used more as he seemed to do a decent job in the past. Mitchell has made really bad decisions on about 90% of his punt returns.
> I was shocked (as was everybody else) on how effectively UT was able to run up the middle. They really seemed to control our defensive line for most of the game (with the assistance of what looked like a ton of holding on Jarvis in particular).
> I don’t recall when UGA has had as set of CBs with better hands than this bunch. The INT by Swann was pretty ridiculous as was Commings’.
Well said, Schmoe.
Lrgk9
Dude – Brandon Smith carries the ball like it is cotton candy and can’t be crushed.
Schmoe, I wasn’t impressed with either of Commings’ INT’s. One came on a terrible pass, and luck played a big part on the second.
As for Tree’s game, the announcers made a big deal about the number of tackles, but most came downfield from his position (after they were past him). I’d like to know how many yards were gained on him.
But, more importantly, the defense failed to meet out expectations due to a lack of a constistant blitz. Grantham only brought pressure from the LB or DB three or four times. All were relatively late, and most were effective.
From the start, I expected the defensive backfield to come with their ears pinned back. Even more so when it became apparent that #29 wasn’t getting in Bray’s face. I think that indirectly, this also contributed to UT’s ability to run straight ahead.
A very 2008-like performance all the way around.
Yep. Smelled exactly like ’08 UGA/GT, only the defense eventually stood up this time.
Really like the 2006 TN game which we handed to them after being close to blowing them out, and similar to SC 2011 when we handed them a W.
I think we should just line up at the 30 yard line for PATs now.
+1. Morgan appears to be a great kicker outside the 20.
How many false starts does that take? 5 or 6?
With Jarvis drawing double teams like he did all day Saturday, the table is set for someone else on the other end to get in the backfield and make a sack or two. It sure would be nice for somebody to step up. Tennessee’s offensive line completely controlled the line yesterday. If we get blocked like that all day against S. Carolina, Lattimore will eat us alive.
I was thinking that myself. Waiting for C. Washington to make an appearance.
You’ll be waiting a long time for C.Wash to pick up the pace. Biggest underachiever on our D. I’d put my money on Jordan Jenkins – who’s developing fast.
SOUTHGADAWG88
Jarvis wasn’t double teamed much, if at all in this game.The UT OT’s were oustanding in handling him straight up without any help for most of the game.He may be slowed by the groin injury, but I do agree that we need to have other means of getting after the QB,besides relying on Jarvis Jones’s greatness every big game.
Holding has become an art, not a penalty, this year.
JJ was held only a few times. Antonio Richardson is a bad ass though. He took Jarvis and Jordan Jenkins toe to toe and pushed them off their rush. A lot of credit to him and Juwan James.
Too bad we couldn’t get either one of them in recruiting. Would’ve been a nice
But yes…a lot of holding this year around the SEC…but appears the no calls are going both ways
Shaw is quick as a cat and smart. These teams are both running the ball well. It will probably come down to mistakes, as usual.
If Tennessee hadn’t gotten the 21 gift points, (think of it, that was at least a 20 to 30 point swing the way Georgia was moving the ball on the Vols), this game would have been a huge blow out.
Maybe the mistakes will be cut way down for SC.
Don’t forget, they’ve got a hell of a lot of Dawg offense to worry about too. Right now they’re probably saying “If we get blocked like that against Georgia, Gurley and Marshall will eat us alive”>
Well, I agree we gave them 21 points with the turnovers, but they dropped a sure TD pass, plus they turned it over 3 straight times in the fourth quarter. So, while I felt like we mainly had control, it could have easily turned out otherwise. We survived, which is the main thing.
squarebush
00:09 INT
00:13 TD
02:42 Punt
00:39 Fumble
00:42 FG (End of half)
00:07 End of game
Turnovers and 3-and-outs KILL a defense. I won’t complain about big play touchdowns, those can fire a defense up and put more pressure on the opposing offense. That usually leads to turnovers from the bad guys. We had a lot of chances to put these guys away and didnt do it. Hopefully next week will be a different story.
Morgan must be a golfer because I have seen any kicker hit the “flagstick” as often in one career as he has in 5 games. Someone needs to tell him to aim between the two posts on his short shots. Even when he doesn’t hit them he has been damned close. Isn’t there a foreign exchange student who played soccor that can handle the PATs? And this from a guy who is 3 for 3 from 50+. Damn so many other things to worry about, let’s solve this one. Can’t Kevin Butler be used as a consultant?
Agreed 10000%.
Certainly could’ve contributed to the defense’s troubles. The run defense has to play better next week or we’re in serious trouble.
Kevin Butler said on Dawgtalk after the game that our kicker has so much strength the shorter pats are harder because he has to dial back his kicks. I hope coaches were listening in.
He also said Morgan moves his head forward on kicks. Much like a golf swing, a stable, head-down position is critical to success.
Wasn’t that fault only on the pats and not the field goals? I hope someone was listening and can help Marshall. His field goal skill is amazing.
I’m so tired of hearing crap about Bobo. Our offense is explosive and let’s face it, they picked up the slack in the 2nd half when the D was struggling. I blame the momentum changing on Mitchell’s bad decision on that punt return. We were cruising until that point in the game.
BTW, I love Grantham but I believe he got outcoached in the 2nd half. You have to give credit to UT’s coaching staff. That being said, the Swann blitz was great timing and caused Bray to make a poor decision which resulted in an interception.
Time to move on to next week. Big time environment and we have to step up and play big to win! Go DAWGS!
Pretty silly to criticize over fifty offensive points against an SEC defense.
Pretty damn silly.
Orl Dawg
Yes stop criticizing Bobo. I would like to know when UGA had a more potent offense!!! We can run it or throw it against anyone. So stop criticizing the man making the calls and directing one of the best offenses in the country.
I only remember a handful of passes where TN had close coverage on our receivers all night so passing the ball wasn’t the usual risk, if they give it to you take it. Throw the damn ball, it was open all night and Murray was on target. CMB has to readjust the “traditional” thinking when the game matchups dictate it. In the 2nd and 4th Quarters we owered in the corner and ran into a stacked box.
Cosmic, if you ever get around Charleston SC you must visit Jack’s
Cosmic Dogs in Mt. Pleasant.
Ha! How about that? I will do it – if you live down there I will buy you one of Jack’s dogs, too! My father-in-law has a boat down that way he wants us to come visit. Now that me and Mrs. Cosmic Dawg moved back to Athens a few years ago we’re not that far off…
But then it wouldn’t be balanced. I agree, stick with what is working.
I remember seeing UT sitting with like 9 players within 8 yards of the LOS. They were selling out to stop the run and daring us to throw. And we didn’t do it. That was frustrating.
Mainly talking about late in the game, btw.
I honestly can’t believe you are saying this…..we are the top scoring offense in the SEC and scored 51 freaking points and you guys have the balls to criticize Bobo? Are you freaking kidding me?
Talk about hubris….
All I said was it was frustrating.
We had a few opportunities to win the game but kept going 3 and out and putting it back on our defense to win the game. The offense was playing so well and the defense was giving up drives. I don’t understand why we didnt want to keep the ball with our offense and not give them the chance to win. That’s what I mean.
There were also 3 other people above me who were frustrated about the same thing. Why attack me?
It wasn’t intended as an attack on you personally, but rather directed at all of you complaining about Bobo. If you have to have something to bitch about then complain about our defense with 10 starters back from last year that couldn’t stop the run or the pass.
Hubris would not be my description for it.
section Z alum
it was the best of games, it was the worst of games.
marshall’s speed was astonishing (and as a friend has observed, marshall’s gpa is higher than his 40 time). gurley’s long run was awesome not only because of his speed, but he waited for his blockers, which included rantavious wooten hustling downfield from the interior line. damian swan pulled in that INT like rodman pulling down a rebound. quayvon hicks likes hitting people.
gurley also brain-farted on the kick return. and i think he missed a block that lead to the murray sack and fumble. my man amarlo herrerra was demonstrative in his displeasure with missed assignments on a late urnge td (save for the locker room, please), and assorted defensive goofiness had me banging my head on the floor.
but i’ll take 5-0, baby. go dawgss.
Looks like some parts the game from last season have returned. One is Murray not securing the ball and the other still trying to throw into a tight window with a freshman TB. I would think South Carolina’s defense took note ot those miscues. Fullback play and protection will be required against Spurrier. Special team below average play returned again. I’ll defend Mitchell. He is talented and slowed by an injury, but I’d put him on one side of the ball and leave him. Too much to ask of him to be used like they are currently doing. One thing to close on a receiver, or RB, block and go downfield on a pass route. It is a lot different moving your eyes up to field a punt and glance back down for protection and see where you have a return lane. Would like to see the time Mitchell spends in practice in all 3 phases of the game vs the other players. I fault the coaches for using Mitchell in punt returns.
Maybe I’m partial to the Dooleys and almost attended UT rather than UGA, but I did not see a middle of the field UT team. I was impressed with UT. They lost to Florida, but Florida is a very good team on both sides of the ball. So is Georgia. Tennessee does some damn good things on offense. Their vertical passing game is lethal. I would be very wary of them if they were on my schedule. Tennessee can be a very good team by the end of the season. Derek Dooley has done an outstanding job.
The O line. The run blocking for those freshman back in yesterday’s game was very good. Even Crowell could have busted one. Okay, he could not because after the first tackle he takes himself out. O lineis work in progress but their play yesterday was very good.
Murray throws a pick in Columbia or puts the ball on the ground. Well you can bet South Carolina’s defense will get very juiced. Same on special teams. Can not let turnovers flip the field and give Carolina a short field. They will score. If Georgia puts up 35+ on South Carolina and wins. I move Bama down…somebody has to move if you can put that on Carolina and win.
I haven’t yet watched a replay of UT being called for running into the punter. How did Barber’s acting skills look on TV? Any better than last week?
Acting was as good as last week. This call was slightly more legit than last week.
It was an act, alright. In fact, I can’t remember a college punter as good at that as Barber is. He had Verne and Gary fooled until they watched the replay.
From section 321 it looked like maybe he took a hand to the jersey and went down. Then he got up and limped about halfway across the field before being miraculously healed right before our eyes.
I posted last night when I was angry. It seems like every year the same problems arise. Richt talked about doing extra work on special teams back in the spring. Then fall camp and now five games into the season and still no kick returner? WTF? If they aren’t going to play Scott-Wesley then put him back there and let him practice fielding kicks all week, and while you are at it teach him the where the 10 yd line is and how to fair catch. The D needs a ton of work on stopping the run to get ready for Lattimore and Murray needs to put BOTH hands on the ball when he is getting sacked. That being said I am about over my snit fit and glad for the victory.
Just re-watched the game and here are a few things that stood out to me.
1) Is Marlon Brown suspended, because I didn’t see him. I can’t see him missing those catches Wooten missed.
2) Bobo almost cost us the game with his conservative play calling in the 4th. Our defense was on the field almost the entire last quarter.
3) I am left wondering if USC is going to be able to neutralize Jarvis the way the Vols did. Was that due to their personel matchup, Jones’s injury,
scheme or all/none of the above? Really would like to hear some input on this.
Marlon played, caught the 2 point conversion, and made some key blocks but I don’t remember him being targeted on other passes. He has been clutch so I can only assume he was covered up.
Agree with your point 2nd point, it kept the game close because we refused to take the passes they were giving us. I think TN’s offensive line was much better than anyone thought, they handled JJ with their tackles alone, no double team. I don’t think SC’s line is that good but their DL is better.
“Bobo almost cost us the game”
You people have issues. Please go see a therapist.
He’s referring to the 4th quarter when we were running into a loaded box and going 3 and out over and over and putting the game back in our exhausted defense’s hands. Our receivers are good enough to get that first down and win the game.
I’m fully aware of what happened. I think even with that the Bobo hate is absurd.
I don’t know that all criticism and complaints qualify as “hate”. Sometimes they’re just justified complaints.
The offense played pretty well except for the turnovers, the disappearing act in the 4th, and disappearing under our own goalposts.
The defense played pretty poorly except for causing 4 turnovers (3 in a row to win the game) and causing a few 3 (or 4) plays and out situations. Lots of defensive issues, though.
The offense had a good game though. Doesn’t grant them a free pass from any an all criticism. At least, not for everyone.
West Virgina scored 800 points this week, I think. Did you see those six incomplete passes?
Some folks expect some sort of crystalline perfection, it seems. Who does this? Who do you want to trade personnel with at this point?
I know you’re saying the criticism was focused on specific things. I’m saying it doesn’t matter because scoring 51 fucking points should be enough to override mistakes. Why did we even have to have the starters in late in the 4th? Case in point: How many complaints are there here about the defense not holding Tennessee to field goals in that second quarter? Isn’t that the same kind of situational critique? Yeah, there’s justified worry about the defense in some posts, but because people recognize offensive playcalls better than defensive ones, they give the defense a pass for its situational mistakes while blasting Bobo for playcalls–even while the offense totally carried the defense nearly the whole frigging day!
It’s mind-boggling to me. You want almost cost the game? How about letting Patterson run for a TD on a broken play? How about Rambo not knowing what to do while the play is starting? How about not forcing Tennessee to punt at all in the fourth quarter and allowing them to drive down the field until Bray screwed up and threw the ball right to Commings or dropped it because of the one time all game we got pressure on him?
Be fair and quit dumping all of the blame on Bobo. It’s way past reasonable at this point.
+100 Well said.
The offense did awesome, it really did, but I think it’s fair to award them minus 14 points for turnovers. And you’re right, the difference is that we can see the plays the O is calling better than we can see the plays the D is dialing up in response, and so we ought to be a little more balanced in our critique.
However, the D played a kind of *generally* sub-par game – there was no specific issue that I could see needed a lot of fixing – it was just a malaise across the board. It also looked like they were just getting beat on the line – not that they were out of position or mailing it in or whatever. I may be wrong, as you suggest, I am guilty of not zoning in on D’s specific shortcomings.
But mostly we’re only really talking about one facet of the offense – we have a *chronic* problem of going conservative too soon or when we are deep in our own territory. Nobody’s really been jumping on AM for his fumble and interception too much, or getting on Theus for his missed block, etc. Because these are just issues of execution and they overall did great and hung a lot of points on TN and no single player or . The punt-punt-punt and punt-punt-punt you see in the post above re our drives is a *chronic* and fixable problem, though…
I haven’t seen anybody get really mad about Bobo or the O here today, I just think it’s like watching somebody drive their truck into a wall at 3mph over and over again – you just want to walk up and tell them to put it in reverse…
And listen, if AM had thrown another interception deep in our own territory, I’d be howling that we should have given it to one of the freshmen who’d been running all over TN…:)
Something that sticks out to me when looking at this…
Is how feast or famine the offense was. I think the defense just got worn out. They weren’t playing very well, but I think that the way the game played out exacerbated things quite a bit.
We had a fairly long TD drive then a pick 6, then a one play TD, then a 2:28 drive, then a 50 second TD drive. At that point, the D has been on the field a decent amount, but other than the pick 6, things have been ok. Then punt and a pair of fumbles (at the 2 and the 18). Ouch. Hard to recover from that when you have been on the field for most of the half. And a fumble that the opposing team gets at the 2 (and only because Aaron tripped the guy) is a TD 99% of the time. Then the D forces a quick 3 and out to start the second half and we score 3 straight TDs. They’re pretty quick, but still we score 3 straight. The defense is left out there for basically the rest of the game.
It’s weird that the game went: TD, pick 6, then 3 TDs then nothing for the rest of the half until the last 40 second. Then the second half starts with 3 quick TDs then nothing for the rest of the game. The offense put up plenty of points and I’m not trying to start a whole tangential argument in the middle of an argument, but that is just weird. The offense scored a bunch up front and then did nothing for the rest of the half in both halves. Wild.
“General malaise”
We didn’t blitz anyone at all until the last drive of the game when we finally got some pressure on Bray. The rest of the time we tried ti rush four on six and never adjusted to the fact that their OL was stopping us from getting any pressure.
We kept the safeties back so far–I agree with not bringing them in the box, but they were 20 yards deep the whole game–that was impossible to really help stuff the run. This was a Willie Martinez version of the 3-4 if ever I saw one; we essentially played a cover 2 the whole game.
There’s two for you.
Not only that, but if Bobo did pass while backed up and gave an easy pick-six, these self-same gurus would be calling for his head along with the sane people. I’m glad Bobo doesn’t read this short shrift crap of fairy tales and maybes . We would lose all our games and they would disavow making dumbass plans.
gatorhater27
Except that (running three straight times) didn’t happen until we were making them use their timeouts with less than 3 minutes to go.
1) Marlon caught the 2 pt conversion and had an end-around run for 8 yards (I think). Wish he had played more.
2) Yep.
3) Jarvis said they often had the tackle plus a TE and/or RB on him. So 2-3 guys on him. I also saw Jarvis get held over and over last night. Tackles are apparently allowed to hold him with absolute impunity now. Jordan Jenkins and John Jenkins were the only other players consistently getting pressure when we didn’t blitz. Alec Ogletree, Herrera, and Swann got a little pressure too. We just had trouble getting back there fast enough and our corners were having trouble covering well enough to buy them enough time. UT’s OL also played really well. Wish Ju’Wuan James had picked Georgia a few years ago.
I strongly disagree on the 4th Q conservative play-calling. We had the ball 4 times (counting a drive that started in the 3rd.) First drive ended on a 4th and 6 after a penalty. Second drive was one run and two passes. Third drive was 2 runs and one pass, a pass which should have gotten us the first down if Wooten would have been able to haul it in. 3rd drive was 3 straight runs forcing UT to use their timeouts. Anyone who wouldn’t have ran it 3 straight times there (forcing them to use their timeouts) is an idiot. Last “drive” was a kneeldown. What’s conservative about all that?
Were all the passes on third down? Honestly curious, because it is not the run v pass I think we are arguing, it’s the
run straight
forced into a pass situation
predictability that is frustrating. May be all wet and it just felt that way in the heat of the game.
On the second possession of the fourth quarter, we passed on second and third down, with Murray missing badly on both. I don’t blame Bobo for trying to run the ball the next possession, and, as noted below, the play action pass worked beautifully – Wooten just didn’t make the catch.
I think the bigger problem in the 4th was the defense’s inability to get off the field.
I checked it out on the box score – we did NOT follow this format – I stand corrected. We actually ran and passed about the same percentage in the 4th Q as in the rest of the game.
Maybe because it *feels* that we are simply running into the pile in the 4th quarter and not getting to the edges, as some have suggested?
It was a matter of the circumstances of the game, too. Our defense was gashed, and we needed to run some clock. If Murray hits the passes on the second possession, or Wooten catches the third down pass, no one is having this discussion.
I think I have this figured out…..we hit the uprights on a PAT, we win the game! Bring on the chickens!
collegeparkdawg
I don’t have much to add to the Senator’s and everyone else’s astute commentary, but I will say that the whole timing of the game seemed odd. There seemed to be a commercial or some other break every time the momentum shifted back to us. Never seemed to have a real flow going at any point. It seemed like one of the longest games I have ever attended. At the end I was happy with the win but also happy it was finally over.
Glad I’m not the only one that thought about that.
rocksalt76
Only complaint on Bobo was the playcalling when we were in the shadow of our goalpoasts – it was obvious that they were walking the safties up, and we should have burned ’em for it.
As for Defense, lots to talk about, but I think we may start to see a lot more Jordan Jenkins. He’s a solid pass rusher, and I think may (heaven forbid) start to spell Jarvis on occasion.
If I may be so bold, I propose we just start using the tag #MGAF for Gurshall and others. It’s easier to type than “My God a freshman!”
All sounds good to me.
I didn’t have as much of a problem with Bobo going into conservative mode coming out of our end zone…though I will say that while I like the alternating series between Marshall and Gurley…I wanted to see Gurley in those situations. I love both guys but to me Gurley is more the power runner that might get you a few yards running into the aforementioned stacked line. That might even have been a time to get Malcolme into the game.
My only real complaint with Richt/Bobo was going into the usual conservative shell in the 4th quarter. With the way the defense was playing(not well) compared to how the offense was looking unstoppable..I’m not sure the patented run twice into a stacked line, incomplete pass on 3rd and long and punt strategy was the best odds wise, though luckily it worked.
I was reading on some of the Vol boards where they were bragging about shutting down Georgia’s O in the fourth quarter. I didn’t bother to reply that anyone who has watched any film on UGA for the last 10 years knows that Richt/Bobo are going to go into a conservative shell with a lead in the 4th quarter. No offense to Sunsieri, but it it a lot easier to stop a team when you know they are going to play vanilla.
I’m not sure whether to give UT’s O-line a hell of a lot of credit or wonder if being able to hold on every play can make any group look good.
Sure hope we get the defense and special teams shored up before next week…one of the things that scared me the most last night was that UT was actually able to run the ball reasonably well…which was supposed to be their weakness…and they don’t have a Lattimore on their team..
All of you complaining about “conservative” mode are being ridiculous. We had already had a Pick-6 off of a tipped ball, a fumble on a QB sack and a fumble on a play where the defensive player got to the QB/RB exchange while it was in progress. We had already let them back in the game through turnovers and good field position. Punting to flip the field and playing defense in that instance is good sound football. Unfortunately our Punter and Defense didn’t hold up their end of the bargain.
That was kind of my point…I don’t mind the conservative shell in most games but up until the D finally forced some turnovers in the last few minutes…that seven point lead wasn’t looking too safe. There’s been plenty of games where I’ve had faith that the defense could close out a game…last night I wasn’t so sure. And the turnovers for the most part weren’t caused by playing wild and loose.
My point was that in yesterday’s game, the defense and special teams gave me less confidence to close out the game than another TD or extended drive by the offense did.
I’m far from a Richt or Bobo hater…but you can’t say that when they have a lead even early in the fourth quarter they don’t show pretty obvious tendencies on Offense and make games a bit more of a nail biter and dependent on the defense than they might otherwise.
I am neither hater or constant critic of Bobo, some here are selective readers and go off without loking at the total support people are giving the offense while expressing a point of view about one area where we looked inept. Obviously the defense is the weaker of the two units this year, and that is suprising to all, but that point has been made several times as well. Sometimes people just see one post, or part of a post. The lack of scoring for an entire quarter in a game where UGA had racked up yards in bunches deserves examination. The first and third quarters were outstanding, but as the defense found out in our last two games of 2011, this is a 60 minute game. It was needlessly close at the end and both units fell short in areas, while doing some things well.
Everyone is pleased with the W, but we will not get one next week with the same effort/execution and thus the posts some object to. Best skip over them, or not read the comments following a game, it is much tougher following a loss. That’s when the “fire———“, fools come out in force, not the “I wish we had tried ———” posts.
“I’m not sure the patented run twice into a stacked line, incomplete pass on 3rd and long and punt strategy was the best odds wise, though luckily it worked.”
If Wooten catches the ball on 3rd and 6 with less than 5 minutes to go, the game is effectively over.
True. Didn’t we have two more possessions after that one – not counting the kneel – though? Those were also 3 and outs, right? Sucks when we could win the game on a first down or two (when the defense is tired and struggling) and we can’t get them.
Ending the game with the ball in your hands is much less stressful, IMO. Either way, I’m glad the D finally stepped up, got 3 straight turnovers, and finished the game for us. If they weren’t going to show up for most of the game, at least they made some plays when it mattered most.
http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/playbyplay?gameId=322730061&period=4
Ah thanks
So, the Wooten drop was a 3 and out.
Before that we had a 3 and out to start the 4th quarter (up 51-37), gave up a TD drive to make it a one score game, 4 plays and a punt, defense gets a pick, THEN the Wooten drop 3-and-out (in the run, run, throw on 3rd and 5+ mold of 3 and outs), defense forces a fumble, 3 and out, defense forces a pick, victory kneel.
That was a scary ending. We had one first down in our last 4 possessions and it was throwing it on first down. Interestingly enough, we threw 2 downfield passes (and one screen) in the entire second half. One was for 13 yards, the other for 38.
Just for the trivia of it, here are the other first down passes from the game (in no real order):
1 yard (screen to Mitchell)
So Murray was 8/11 for 127 yards and a dumb pick that was tipped at the line. Pretty damn good on first down.
That was pretty much my point. I understand running clock and playing it close to the vest when the defense is playing lights out and there’s 5 or 6 mins left in the game. But it seemed to me that we basically went conservative for the whole 4th quarter…I’m happy for the win and think Bobo is doing well this year. I’m just saying that when the lead was down to 7 and we were going 3 and out series after series, we gave UT three series to try to tie or win it and I wasn’t sure the defense had it in them. In my personal opinion in some games you just have to keep your foot on the gas and last night seemed like one to me…but I’m admittedly just an armchair QB/Coach.
Did Malcombe play? I never saw him run, I don’t think. I like to see him in there as well.
UGAIII
When I saw Herschel the first time,
Eight years old against Texas A&M,
Can you believe that?
My Dad, wearing those big puffy earphones,
Said Munson was screaming and yelling about some Freshman.
In spite of all the “mistakes” by the offensive leadership, we scored enough to win.
One would assume we won’t be so ready to tempt the Bitches this week, being that South Carolina has a real football team.
I, for one, am afraid the Cocks are a year ahead of us.
My friend, Jarvis brought everyone back for a reason and it’s coming up. I have to agree with several posters that Jarvis is not 100%. Well, neither is Larrimo’. Our O and D practiced all summer on their own and progressed even further than the team that was better than SC last year. Worry all you like, but don’t lose faith in these guys. They have a plan of their own in this game and we don’t have a clue until gametime.
Our O can beat’em, our D can hold’em. They just have to get a fighting ST effort because ole spittoon will put in some sneaky shit in that area.
Our O and D are a year ahead of SC. We have left the talking to the visor. Time to go and shut him up. You don’t get second chances to do that in this league.
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Drug induced hepatitis mimicking Wilson’s disease secondary to the use of complex naturopathic regimens: a case report
Tyler Pitre ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0003-3015-07231,
Jasmine Mah2,
Jaclyn Vertes2,
Rosario Rebello2 &
Julie Zhu2
Drug induced liver injury (DILI) is an important cause of acute liver injury and accounts for approximately 10% of all cases of acute hepatitis. Both prescription and natural health products (NHPs) have been implicated in DILI. There is a dearth of studies on NHPs induced liver injury.
A previously healthy 37-year-old female presented with subacute hepatitis, in the context of a previous admission to a separate institution, months prior for undiagnosed acute hepatitis. Importantly, she had disclosed taking complex regiments of natural health products (NHPs) for months. Her only other medication was rivaroxaban for her homozygous Factor V Leiden deficiency. She had an extensive work up for causes of acute and unresolving hepatitis. She discontinued several but not all of her NHPs after her initial presentation for acute hepatitis at the first institution and continued taking NHPs until shortly after admission to our institution. The predominant pathological features were that of drug induced liver injury, although an abnormal amount of copper was noted in the core liver biopsies. However, Wilson’s disease was ruled out with normal serum ceruloplasmin and 24-urine copper. After 2 months of stopping all the NHPs, our patient improved significantly since discharge, although there is evidence of fibrosis on ultrasound at last available follow up.
NHPs are a well-established but poorly understood etiology of DILI. The situation is exacerbated by the unregulated and unpredictable nature of many of the potential hepatotoxic effects of these agents, especially in cases of multiple potential toxic agents. This highlights the importance of acquiring a clear history of all medications regardless of prescription status.
Drug induced liver injury (DILI) is an important cause of acute liver injury, accounting for approximately 10% of all cases of acute hepatitis [1]. DILI has an incidence of 14 to 19 cases per 100,000 persons and it is the most common cause of acute liver injury in the western world, accounting for 50% of cases of acute liver failure [2].
The pathogenesis of DILI is due to a complex interaction of toxic metabolites, immune response and a series of events that starts with intracellular disruption, necrosis, and immunogenic reaction [3]. Injury may be direct hepato-toxicity, through conversion of a xenobiotic substance to an active toxin. Alternatively, the injury may be engendered through immune mechanisms, such as conversion of a cellular protein into an immunogen [3]. Drug reactions may be intrinsic, which means the drug’s effect is predictable and dose dependent such as acetaminophen toxicity. Idiosyncratic reactions are a function of the host’s specific characteristics. For example, certain individuals are more likely to form haptens that act as immunogens and therefore cause an adverse reaction by immune-mediated mechanisms of hypersensitivity [2, 3]. Some drugs can alter P450’s enzymatic activities and heighten the toxicity profile of a co-ingested drug, and these complex interactions can lead to clinically significant DILI. The diagnosis is made typically on a clinical basis, using history and identifying a culpable agent(s). Biopsy in the context of DILI is typically reserved for ruling out competing diagnosis.
Both prescription and natural health products (NHPs) have been found to be associated in DILI [4, 5]. There is a myriad of prescription medications implicated in the development of DILI. For example, of the top ten agents responsible for DILI, nine of them are antimicrobials, with Amoxicillin-Clavulanate topping that list [2].
There are several naturopathic products associated with hepatotoxicity; however, the incidence of those products causing liver injury and the pathogenesis behind them, remains largely unknown [5, 6]. In the United States, the proportion of NHPs causing DILI increased from 7 to 9% in 2004–2007 to 19 to 20% in 2010–2014 [2]. Many of the supplements implicated in DILI are usually combined products instead of individual ones. The most common phenotype for NHPs induced DILI is hepatocellular hepatitis and mixed cholestatic biochemistry, some can lead to fulminant liver failure, requiring liver transplantation [2]. Our case report represents an example of the difficulty of determining the etiology of acute liver injury in the context of multiple NHPs, with uncertain liver toxicity, being taken in conjunction with prescription medications that have known, albeit rare, liver toxicity.
A previously healthy 37-year-old Caucasian female presented to our institution with a two-month history of jaundice, pruritus and generalized fatigued; having already presented to a different institution for acute hepatitis months prior. Figure 1 highlights a rough timeline of her clinical presentation.
Showing a timeline of our patient’s clinical journey, measured grossly in month intervals. AST is shown as a measure of her slow recovery and final recovery after definitively stopping her NHPs
Approximately 1 month prior to her presentation at the first institution, she had treated non-specific abdominal discomfort with various formulations of NHPs through the advice of her naturopathic doctors. Some of her NHPs are summarized in Table 1. She denied any other accompanying symptoms with her prior abdominal discomfort. She noted that 1 day after taking an increasing number of NHPs, she had sudden right upper quadrant pain and dark urine. Notably, this was a different pain than her pre-existing abdominal discomfort. She had a long clinical course at the first institution; she was given a full work up. She was followed in the community on discharge and unfortunately did not have significant improvements in her liver enzymes and clinical status, which led to a first biopsy. She came to us for further management.
Table 1 Natural health regimens from January to May 2019
On presentation to us, the patient was vitally stable and had no evidence of hepatic encephalopathy. She was visibly jaundiced. Abdominal exam was negative for ascites, jugular venous pressure was not elevated but there was mild bilateral pitting pedal edema. There were no stigmata of chronic liver disease. There was no hepatosplenomegaly on exam.
Her past medical history was significant only for homozygous Factor V Leiden deficiency, discovered after an isolated deep vein thrombosis (DVT) diagnosis during pregnancy. For DVT prophylaxis, she was prescribed Rivaroxaban and was taking this medication correctly for years as prescribed. She had no significant travel history, no previous blood transfusion, nor ingestion of undercooked meat to suggest acquisition of hepatitis E. There was no family history of liver disease.
All relevant laboratory findings are summarized in Table 2. Initial laboratory investigations revealed significant transaminitis and decreased synthetic liver function. Her complete blood count was within normal limits. Her viral hepatitis workup was negative; this was inclusive of serology for hepatitis A/B/C/E, EBV and immunoglobulins for CMV infection and HIV antibody/antigen screen was negative. In addition, she had tests for Bartonella, Syphilis, and Malaria smears; ova and parasites tested at the previous institution that were negative. Her metabolic workup was also negative for Hemochromatosis, Wilson’s disease (WD), and alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency. In addition, she also had a negative antinuclear antibody panel. Other relevant tests included normal an alcohol level and non-detectable acetaminophen level.
Table 2 Values of relevant tests performed on admission to our institution and discharge
Ultrasound showed a liver with nodularity, with no evidence of hepatic vein or inferior vena cava thrombosis. However, an ultrasound completed months prior in February showed normal hepatic architecture without evidence of cirrhosis. A follow up ultrasound in March revealed a thin rim of fluid around the liver and gallbladder, favoring a reactive cause and interval liver parenchymal edema, consistent with acute hepatitis. She also had a magnetic resonance cholangiography (MRCP) in March, which was also unremarkable. Computed Tomography (CT) studies revealed a lobulated liver contour and lobar redistribution. There was also evidence of portal hypertension with splenomegaly. The liver parenchyma had a nodular morphology, suggestive of regeneration, seen in Fig. 2. The pattern of disease on CT is often seen in Budd Chiari syndrome, but can also be consistent with liver necrosis and regeneration after fulminant hepatitis due to drug toxicity. A biopsy was completed at another institution in April, a month prior to our admission and revealed subacute severe hepatitis with areas of confluent panacinar dropout (about 50% of specimen area affected) with no pathological features of Budd-Chiari. There was also no evidence of fibrosis or cirrhosis from this biopsy. The pathologist’s report suggested drug induced liver injury as a possible diagnosis. Portal hypertension was confirmed by measuring the wedge pressure in the right hepatic vein, showing an elevated hepatic-venous pressure gradient of approximately 14 mmHg (normal is < 5 mmHg).
Computed Tomography scan showing unusual parenchymal enhancement with a “flip flop” pattern of reduced enhancement of the peripheral liver in the arterial phase and retention in the portal venous phase
At our institution, the patient was treated with oral N-acetylcysteine and oral vitamin K 5 mg daily for 3 days and daily ursodiol acids at 13 mg/kg. After 1 week, her synthetic liver function marginally improved but she also developed new clinically relevant ascites. It was revealed that the patient was still taking multiple naturopathic medications including alpha-lipoic acid and magnesium (MgS) and it was recommended that she discontinue these immediately.
During her admission, she was worked up by hepatology for liver transplant candidacy. Fortunately, a repeat trans-jugular core liver biopsy revealed minimal necrosis (less than 5%), with evidence of significant regeneration. Rhodamine staining for copper detected an abnormally high deposition. Again, no evidence of fibrosis or cirrhosis was seen. A diagnosis of drug induced liver injury from NHPs was favored, after she disclosed a significant history of NHPs usage, that had been on-going from her earliest clinical issues until early in her admission to us. She had not disclosed this ongoing usage until the second day of admission to us. She agreed to completely stop taking them.
WD was also considered due the abnormally high level of copper found on the first pathological specimens. However, a 24-h urinary copper and hepatic copper content from her second liver biopsy were subsequently done and were both negative for WD. She also had a negative slip lamp test for Kayser Fleischer rings on last follow up.
She was discharged home with hepatology follow up. In the next 2 months, her liver enzymes and synthetic function progressively normalized and she reports not continuing with any NHPs. The most recent follow up ultrasound reveals a liver with a coarsened echotexture.
Discussion and conclusion
This case illustrates the difficulty of deriving a precise etiology of acute liver injury in the context of complex, unregulated naturopathic regimens in the background of known liver toxic agents. Direct oral anticoagulants have been known to be hepatotoxic with growing evidence. Ximelagatran, an early factor IIa inhibitor, was withdrawn from the market due to significant hepatotoxicity [7]. Rivaroxaban has been implicated, albeit rarely, in a few case studies and is listed as risk B (highly likely to cause clinically apparent liver injury) by LiverTox [7,8,9]. However, most of this risk is believed to be during the initial introduction of Rivaroxaban [10]. Meanwhile, our patient had been on Rivaroxaban without adverse effects since 2014, making this unlikely to be the cause of her liver injury.
Acute-on-chronic liver injury was considered, given the evidence of nodular liver on ultrasound, as well as portal hypertension. However, she did not report any signs or symptoms of liver disease until she began taking her NHPs. The previous ultrasounds prior to coming to our institution did not support a diagnosis of underlying cirrhosis. Furthermore, both of her biopsies did not suggest evidence of cirrhosis. Both pathologists separated by time and taken at two different institutions, suggested acute and subacute liver injury as the diagnosis. Portal hypertension occurs typically in the context of cirrhosis but can also happens commonly in acute liver injury [11]. The pathophysiology for portal hypertension in the context of acute liver injury is not well understood but may be due to massive necrosis and reticulin collapse, leading to architectural distortion of hepatic microcirculation [11]. This is consistent with our patient’s biopsy report which revealed massive necrosis and panacinar dropout, which can engender reticulin collapse.
Her ultrasound in June and her follow up ultrasound in August have signs of nodularity and coarse echotexture. Her most available FIB-4 score 2.29, which is not supportive of cirrhosis but does not rule out fibrosis.Footnote 1 Her acute liver injury, due to its prolonged nature, may have caused sufficient architectural distortion to cause fibrosis, which was exacerbated by the patient’s continued taking of her NHPs during her clinical journey, despite advice from her physicians.
A review of the literature was undertaken to explore possible liver outcomes in association with her naturopathic medications. Ashwagandha is a plant root extract, which has a LiverTox profile of C, suggesting a probable cause of apparent liver injury. Vitamin C, even at mega doses, is unlikely to cause clinically significant liver injury. No case reports were found on alpha lipoic acid or probiotics. Our patient was prescribed several regimens of combined intravenous injections which are summarized in Table 1. None of these products have individual high-risk liver toxicity profiles or case reports, but in combination, liver toxicity increases. In addition to these IV treatments, she was prescribed selenium chloride, which has some evidence of causing cirrhosis in animal studies, but no significant liver toxicity has been reported in humans [12]. Finally, there have been multiple case reports on Herbalife, which is a naturopathic medication consisting of a combination of various products [13]. These products have a high LiverTox profile; class A (established cause of clinically apparent liver injury) [9]. Using IBM Micromedex drug reference software, there were no interactions between any of her medications, inclusive of Rivaroxaban and her known NHPs, although some NHPs were not available for comparison (see Table 1).
Complicating the diagnosis was the finding of abnormally high copper levels found on pathology. Upon further questioning, our patient had been ingesting copper in February for approximately 1 month but was unable to recall the dosage. Copper is a well-established cause of acute and chronic liver disease at high doses. Interestingly, our patient’s second biopsy, with the abnormally high copper levels, coincided with a ceruloplasmin level of 318 mg/L and a dry copper weight that was not consistent with WD. As mentioned, our patient had unusual but insufficient copper deposition in her biopsy for a diagnosis of WD.
A case report of a 37-year-old female with acute liver injury in the context of complex natural health products was presented. The association between natural health products and acute liver injury is well established but poorly understood. The combination of various naturopathic medications may lead to more sustained liver injury and hepatotoxicity than ingestion of individual products alone. Our case raises the importance of clinicians inquiring about non-prescription medications in evaluating the potential harmful effects of various naturopathic products.
The datasets generated and analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.
With AST = 56, ALT = 61, Platelets = 116,000, age = 37.
DILI:
DVT:
NHPs:
WD:
Zimmerman HJ. Drug-induced liver disease. Clin Liver Dis. 2000;4(1):73–96, vi Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11232192. [cited 2019 Jun 15].
Hoofnagle JH, Björnsson ES. Drug-Induced Liver Injury — Types and Phenotypes. Longo DL, editor. N Engl J Med. 2019;381(3):264–73 Available from: http://www.nejm.org/doi/10.1056/NEJMra1816149. [cited 2019 Jul 21].
Lee WM. Drug-Induced Hepatotoxicity. N Engl J Med. 2003;349(5):474–85 Available from: http://www.nejm.org/doi/abs/10.1056/NEJMra021844. [cited 2019 Jun 15].
García-Cortés M, Robles-Díaz M, Ortega-Alonso A, Medina-Caliz I, Andrade RJ. Hepatotoxicity by Dietary Supplements: A tabular Listing and Clinical Characteristics. Int J Mol Sci. 2016;17 Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27070596. Cited 2019 Jun 15.
Stournaras E, Tziomalos K. Herbal medicine-related hepatotoxicity. World J Hepatol. 2015;7(19):2189–93 Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4561772/.
Bunchorntavakul C, Reddy KR. Review article: herbal and dietary supplement hepatotoxicity. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2013;37(1):3–17 Available from: http://doi.wiley.com/10.1111/apt.12109. [cited 2019 Jun 15].
Licata A, Puccia F, Lombardo V, Serruto A, Minissale MG, Morreale I, et al. Rivaroxaban-induced hepatotoxicity. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2018;30(2):226–32 Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29120909. [cited 2019 Jun 15].
Cordeanu M, Gaertner S, Bensalah N, Mirea C, Hamade A, Stephan D. Rivaroxaban induced liver injury: A cholestatic pattern. Int J Cardiol. 2016;216:97–8 Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27140342. [cited 2019 Jun 15].
LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury. National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Updated 01 November 2018. Available from: https://livertox.nih.gov. Cited 2019 Jun 15.
Lambert A, Cordeanu M, Gaertner S, Nouri S, Alt M, Stephan D. Rivaroxaban-induced liver injury: Results from a venous thromboembolism registry. Int J Cardiol. 2015;191:265–6 Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25981364. [cited 2019 Jun 15].
Navasa M, Garcia-Pagan JC, Bosch J, Riera JR, Bafnares R, Mas A, et al. Portal hypertension in acute liver failure. Gut. 1992;33(7):965–8 Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1379414/.
JK MF, Broussard DL, Melstrom P, Hutchinson R, Wolkin A, Martin C, et al. Acute Selenium Toxicity Associated With a Dietary Supplement. Arch Intern Med. 2010;170(3):256 Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20142570. [cited 2019 Jul 2].
Elinav E, Pinsker G, Safadi R, Pappo O, Bromberg M, Anis E, et al. Association between consumption of Herbalife® nutritional supplements and acute hepatotoxicity. J Hepatol. 2007;47(4):514–20 Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17692424. [cited 2019 Jun 15].
We would like to acknowledge the patient for allowing us to write this case report on a very important and interesting topic.
Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine (Waterloo Regional Campus), McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
Tyler Pitre
Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
Jasmine Mah
, Jaclyn Vertes
, Rosario Rebello
& Julie Zhu
Search for Tyler Pitre in:
Search for Jasmine Mah in:
Search for Jaclyn Vertes in:
Search for Rosario Rebello in:
Search for Julie Zhu in:
All authors have read and approved the current manuscript. TP was a senior medical student following the patient during her stay. He is the main author. He completed the literature review, as well as contributed to each section of the case report. He approved and copy-edited the manuscript. JM was a senior medical resident during the patient’s stay. She contributed to all sections of the manuscript as well as contributed to literature review. JV was a senior medical resident during the patient’s stay. She contributed to all sections of the manuscript as well as contributed to literature review. RB was the most responsible physician for the patient. He contributed to all sections of the manuscript and copyedited. JZ was the consulting hepatologist. She edited and contributed to all sections of the manuscript.
Correspondence to Tyler Pitre.
Patient provided written consent as per the protocol through the Nova Scotia Health Authority. No identifying information is used the case report.
Pitre, T., Mah, J., Vertes, J. et al. Drug induced hepatitis mimicking Wilson’s disease secondary to the use of complex naturopathic regimens: a case report. BMC Gastroenterol 19, 199 (2019) doi:10.1186/s12876-019-1122-x
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12876-019-1122-x
Acute liver injury
Hepatobiliary and pancreatic disorders
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Audio Persistent Identifier
https://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-193019647
National Library of Australia. & Price, A. Grenfell. & Gorton, John. & White, Harold Leslie. & McMullin, Alister. (1968). Proceedings of the Official Opening of the first stage of the National Library of Australia held onsite on August 15 1968 in Canberra A.C.T. http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-193019647
National Library of Australia. and Price, A. Grenfell. and Gorton, John. and White, Harold Leslie. and McMullin, Alister. Proceedings of the Official Opening of the first stage of the National Library of Australia held onsite on August 15 1968 in Canberra A.C.T. [sound recording] 1968 <http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-193019647>
National Library of Australia. & Price, A. Grenfell. & Gorton, John. & White, Harold Leslie. & McMullin, Alister. 1968, Proceedings of the Official Opening of the first stage of the National Library of Australia held onsite on August 15 1968 in Canberra A.C.T. [sound recording] <http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-193019647>
| title=Proceedings of the Official Opening of the first stage of the National Library of Australia held onsite on August 15 1968 in Canberra A.C.T. [sound recording]
| author1=National Library of Australia
| author2=Price, A. Grenfell (Archibald Grenfell), 1892-1977
| author3=Gorton, John, Sir, 1911-2002
| author4=White, Harold Leslie, Sir, 1905-1992
| author5=McMullin, Alister, Sir, 1900-1984
| url=https://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-193019647
NLA Digital Collection
Proceedings of the Official Opening of the first stage of the National Library of Australia held onsite on August 15 1968 in Canberra A.C.T. [sound recording]
Audio, Online [sound recording] , Online - Google Books
Online Versions
National Library of Australia digitised item
Access open for research, personal copies and public use.
1 sound tape reel (ca. 240 min.) : analog, 3 3/4 ips, half track, mono. ; 7 in.
Covers the long history of the formation of National Library of Australia until its collection was finally established in its own official building in 1968.
Full contents
1. Speeches by Sir Grenfell Price.
2. Speech by Sir Alister McMullin.
3. Speech by H. L. White (National Librarian).
4. Speech by Sir John Gorton.
Not yet preserved.
Recorded in Canberra on 15 August 1968.
Also available online http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-193019647
Index/Finding Aid Note
Transcript available (typescript, 12 leaves)
National Library of Australia -- Buildings. | National Library of Australia -- History. | National libraries -- Australia. | Research libraries -- Australia.
Price, A. Grenfell (Archibald Grenfell), 1892-1977, Speaker | Gorton, John, Sir, 1911-2002, Speaker | White, Harold Leslie, Sir, 1905-1992, Speaker | McMullin, Alister, Sir, 1900-1984, Speaker
ORAL TRC 68
Copy: Recording Special Collections Reading Room
ORAL TRC 68 (transcript)
Copy: Transcript Special Collections Reading Room
Harold White address The National Library in the Australian community on 15 September 1968 at Wesley Chu...
John Gorton speech at the opening of the first stage of the National Library of Australia in Canberra on...
National Folk Festival 2017 launch at the National Library of Australia
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Filtros: Autor is Cavaco, Sofia [Clear All Filters]
Cavaco S, Viegas CSB, Rafael MS, et al. Gla-rich protein is involved in the cross-talk between calcification and inflammation in osteoarthritis. Cell Mol Life Sci. 2016;73(5):1051-65. doi:10.1007/s00018-015-2033-9
Viegas CSB, Rafael MS, Enriquez JL, et al. Gla-rich protein acts as a calcification inhibitor in the human cardiovascular system. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2015;35(2):399-408. doi:10.1161/ATVBAHA.114.304823
Viegas CSB, Herfs M, Rafael MS, et al. Gla-rich protein is a potential new vitamin K target in cancer: evidences for a direct GRP-mineral interaction. Biomed Res Int. 2014;2014:340216. doi:10.1155/2014/340216
Rafael MS, Cavaco S, Viegas CSB, et al. Insights into the association of Gla-rich protein and osteoarthritis, novel splice variants and γ-carboxylation status. Mol Nutr Food Res. 2014;58(8):1636-46. doi:10.1002/mnfr.201300941
Cavaco S, Williamson MK, Rosa J, et al. Teleost fish osteocalcin 1 and 2 share the ability to bind the calcium mineral phase. Fish Physiol Biochem. 2014;40(3):731-8. doi:10.1007/s10695-013-9880-9
Viegas CSB, Simes DC, Williamson MK, et al. Sturgeon osteocalcin shares structural features with matrix Gla protein: evolutionary relationship and functional implications. J Biol Chem. 2013;288(39):27801-11. doi:10.1074/jbc.M113.450213
Viegas CSB, Cavaco S, Neves PL, et al. Gla-rich protein is a novel vitamin K-dependent protein present in serum that accumulates at sites of pathological calcifications. Am J Pathol. 2009;175(6):2288-98. doi:10.2353/ajpath.2009.090474
Roberto VP, Cavaco S, Viegas CSB, et al. Matrix Gla protein in turbot (Scophthalmus maximus): Gene expression analysis and identification of sites of protein accumulation. Aquaculture. 2009;294(3-4):202 - 211. doi:10.1016/j.aquaculture.2009.06.020
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Sold introduces local millennials to vintage - Daily News Egypt
Lifestyle Sold introduces local millennials to vintage
Sold introduces local millennials to vintage
Trends are a vicious rollercoaster that praise and obsess over certain silhouettes until people can no longer stand the sight of them. With social media accelerating the speed of fast fashion, the young generation is used to bidding farewell to last week’s hot item in a blink of an eye. Together, Yahia Karali and his …
Nayera Yasser April 11, 2018 Be the first to comment
Trends are a vicious rollercoaster that praise and obsess over certain silhouettes until people can no longer stand the sight of them. With social media accelerating the speed of fast fashion, the young generation is used to bidding farewell to last week’s hot item in a blink of an eye.
Together, Yahia Karali and his sister Aseel take their regular seats, where he is behind the wheel while she navigates the route. Road trips have been a family ritual for them, until they decided to turn their shared passion into business.
After a long road, their destination promises patterns, fabrics, and details that have turned time into an asset. Her eye for fashion searches for pieces that would take centre stage at any event; meanwhile, he hunts for rare and valuable stitches.
The Karali siblings are always on a quest to create a community of individuals who refuse to blend in. Frustrated by the clones created by fast fashion, the duo provides a seasoned fashion alternative. Through their peculiar approach, they are guiding the local market through its baby steps to embrace vintage.
“My brother, Yahia Karali, was studying for his master’s in London. While living in Camden, where vintage clothing is quite the norm, for his thesis, he chose to focus on consumer behaviour in regard to vintage clothing,” Aseel Karali said. “In 2011, this topic, especially when applying it to Egyptian customers, was such a taboo.”
As a family, the two enjoyed many summers visiting vintage markets around the world. Accordingly, they were inspired to bring the concept home. However, even their parents questioned the idea, labelling vintage as used clothing.
Even though they have never viewed themselves as fashion experts, their belief that thrift shops are where cool items could be sourced enforced their determination.
Yahia’s thesis took him all the way to the most distant ports, where he interviewed a number of people involved in this industry. Naturally, he grew his database to include the best suppliers of vintage clothes. Nonetheless, it was only after he acquired his MBA from France, and failed to find a satisfying nine to five job back home, that he took the leap.
As an alternative, he decided to put his valuable contacts to use. Even though his earlier research showed negative results, Yahia was confident that the economic changes would open a door to vintage. On the other hand, he was also inspired to help people become individuals. “As a generation, we are always seeking ways to stand out against the tyranny of trends,” said Aseel with determination.
Sold provides a wide range of distinctive vintage attire
By the end of 2016, he was already filtering and picking garments from his suppliers, while his sister was stationed behind her computer, handling the finances. With the help of his friends, Sold started organically from his own apartment in Garden City.
“For our first public exposure, one of Yahia’s friends got us an opportunity to display his picks at an event. The unexpected reaction made us further believe in this concept. Afterwards, we both decided to run with this brand and take it to the next level. I quit my job and he moved in with me, so we could expand our collection and grow the label,” said Aseel as she reminisced about the early days.
Despite their humble beginnings and their under-the-radar method, Sold suddenly became a phenomenon in the local market. The millennial brand broke a well-cemented stereotype. Overnight, an expanding circle of fashion-forward men and women stopped making fun of their parents’ retro wardrobe; instead, they started looking for the same vibrant patterns and oversized cuts. After a couple of pop-ups, the so-called used clothes became trendy vintage.
According to the Karalis, the young brand is finding its way to establish a concrete identity. However, it already operates based on three key values: the vintage haven is organic, collaborative, and transparent.
Meanwhile, Yahia’s database was their starting point to find their way to thousands of items. Through trial and error, they discovered that their tool to identify what sells best is in fact their personal style.
“It started as our circle of friends at first, then when word travelled around, our clientele base expanded at the speed of light,” Aseel said. “We never wanted this to turn into a rigid business. Instead, we are keen on remaining organic.”
As firm believers in the impact of a community, the two never resort to marketing stunts that address the masses. Aside from their desire to constantly move forward, they plan to keep their filtering process tight and their base of clients exclusive.
“We currently keep an intimate relationship with our customers, as we let them into our house in order to show them our personal selection. We are quite grateful to our clients for embracing a new concept and fuelling it to expand,” said Aseel with a subtle smile.
On the other hand, Sold is also collaborative. Their sticker changes on a monthly basis as they regularly collaborate with local artists to reinvent the brand’s visuals. Through incorporating their standard logo with local art, the siblings demonstrate a new aspect of their identity every month.
With that said, transparency is an additional cornerstone. Vintage items require special treatment and professional input to fix any damage. Therefore, they keep an honest dialogue with their clients regarding the state of each piece. “We select the garments because we like them; if they have a rip or a missing button, we will tell you beforehand,” stated Aseel.
According to the founders and their car’s odometer, restocking is a tiresome task. At the beginning, road trips used to be a monthly ritual; however, now they hit the road every two weeks.
Pre-loved garments get packaged in Dubai before passing through Egypt on their way to the other side of the world. Accordingly, their trips often target ports in cities such as Safaga, Port Said, and Suez in order to go through the containers and acquire their favourite pieces.
“Before fluctuation, the filtering process used to take six hours. However, nowadays prices have increased significantly. Suppliers saw how interested we are and how it turned into a business; therefore, they changed their prices,” Aseel said, adding, “now we also know out of experience what our clients prefer. Accordingly, our process has been cut in half.”
Depending on suppliers to source their garments has made them bond to the pop-up strategy. Therefore, they do not constantly post their new collection on social media. Instead, every time they have new items, they simply pop up, whether on ground or through Instagram stories.
The founding siblings aim to open a new market for vintage; against
the negative stereotypes
“There are always mothers who would come with their children to our house; due to their safety concerns,” Aseel said. “Meanwhile, one of our regular clients always shows up at each flea market before insisting to put down our items for the sake of bargaining. Nonetheless, with time, she has become our friend and by now we are used to her comments.”
Shortly after being a questioned concept, Sold became the inspiration for many homegrown vintage brands. According to Aseel, word about similar concepts have already found their way to them.
“We have met Grandma’s Closet, for instance, at an event. They are quite friendly, and we love their aesthetic. However, there are also other brands that manufacture new shirts, which take after a vintage style. I believe these brands defy the purpose. However, they are still very stylish,” explained Aseel.
Nonetheless, despite the novel competition, the founders behind Sold remain comfortable and confident that they are already a step ahead. In spite of starting with only shirts, they presently offer a wide selection of items, including trench coats and bomber jackets.
“Vintage is a lot more than patterned shirts. We never wanted to limit ourselves and overconsume the floral shirt. If everyone ends up wearing the same item, then we go back to square zero, where everyone looks the same,” said Aseel with an assertive grin.
As part of their expansion, the Karali siblings plan to expand their supply database to include offshore sources. Meanwhile, they would also love to start experimenting with accessories and bags.
Topics: millennials sold vintage
Nayera Yasser
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Sophos eyes Government and PSU businesses, empanels itself to NICSI
The company has been working closely with NICSI to better address the emerging cyber security challenges and network performance problems that are faced by various government agencies and infrastructure.ANI | Updated: January 12, 2017, 11:07 IST
New Delhi [India]: Sophos has empanelled key products of its next-generation Sophos XG Firewall to National Informatics Centre Services Incorporated (NICSI), a Government of India enterprise under the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology.
The products include Hardware appliances (XG Firewall 85 to XG 750), Enterprise Guard and Full Guard Subscription (1 to 5 years for XG Firewall series), Sophos Firewall Manager (SFM 200,300, & 400 with 1 to 3 years Subscription) and LAN/WAN Modules and Transceivers.
The company has been working closely with NICSI to better address the emerging cyber security challenges and network performance problems that are faced by various government agencies and infrastructure.
"We have empanelled our products and stabilised the service and rate that can be leveraged by government organisations.
The advantage of buying through NICSI is that government organisations need not float tenders or invite bids. They can directly check for products and vendors that meet their requirements and ask for a demo or deployment," said Sunil Sharma, vice president, sales at Sophos.
"It is an opportunity to work in close association with NICSI to evaluate network security needs from the ground up, as mandatory for many PSUs, government agencies and offices," he further added. (ANI)
Tags : Risk Management, cyber security, technology, New Delhi, India
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Prime Minister’s Literary Awards Shortlists Announced
by James Bradley on May 26, 2011
Heartfelt congratulations to my friend, Delia Falconer, whose very personal tribute to her home town, Sydney, has been shortlisted for the Non-Fiction Category of the Prime Minister’s Literary Awards, along with Paul Kelly’s How to Make Gravy and Richard McGregor’s excellent study of the Chinese Communist leadership, The Party and books by Rod Moss and Patrick Wilcken.
I meant to write something about Delia’s book when it came out, and while that got away from me, I think it’s a terrific book: startlingly intelligent, idiosyncratic and written with a very striking blend of steel and fluidity. If you haven’t read it I very much recommend you do.
Congratulations also to the other shortlisted writers. I’ve only had a few moments to look at them, but at first glance I’d say two things. The first is that the Fiction shortlist is overtly and unashamedly literary. And the second is that these shortlists are likely to add fuel to the arguments about the under-representation of women writers that were triggered by last month’s announcement of the second all-male Miles Franklin shortlist in a row. I don’t want to suggest Young Adult Fiction isn’t serious writing, but I think it’s difficult not to be struck by the fact that the two shortlists that would usually be regarded as the more overtly intellectual and literary – Fiction and Non-Fiction – each contain four books by men and one by a woman, while the less overtly literary category of Young Adult Fiction contains five books by women and none by men (the Children’s category is rather more evenly split).
But all that said, my congratulations to all the shortlisted authors, and especially to Delia. I wish you could all win, but I guess it doesn’t work that way.
Delia Falconer, Sydney
Paul Kelly, How to Make Gravy
Richard McGregor, The Party
Rod Moss, The Hard Light of Day
Patrick Wilcken, Claude Levi-Strauss: The Poet in the Laboratory
Fiction shortlist
Stephen Daisley, Traitor
Roberta Lowing, Notorious
Roger McDonald, When Colts Ran
David Musgrave, Glissando
Kim Scott, That Deadman Dance
Young Adult Fiction Shortlist
Laura Buzo, Good Oil
Cath Crowley, Graffiti Moon
Cassandra Gold, The Three Loves of Persimmon
Joanne Horniman, About a Girl
Melina Marchetta, The Piper’s Son
Bronwyn Bancroft, Why I Love Australia
Lucy Christopher, Flyaway
Morris Gleitzman, Now
Bob Graham, April Underhill, Tooth Fairy
Boori Monty Prior and Jan Ormerod, Shake a Leg
Tags: Delia Falconer, Literary Awards
← Metamorphoses
Embassytown →
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Patient Opinions on the Helpfulness of External Rehabilitative Activities in Residential Psychiatric Care: A Pilot Study
Bruno Biancosino1, *, Luciana Marmai1, Federica Marchesini1, Raffaella Bertasi1, Gino Targa2, Raffaella Bivi2, Alessandro Cucchi3, Luigi Grassi1
1 Section of Psychiatry, University of Ferrara and Department of Mental Health, Ferrara, Italy
2 Department of Mental Health, Ferrara, Italy
3 Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
Publisher Id: CPEMH-6-16
Received Date: 4/11/2009
Revision Received Date: 13/3/2010
Acceptance Date: 14/3/2010
Electronic publication date: 9/4/2010
Full-Text HTML Views: 765
© Biancosino et al.; Licensee Bentham Open.
open-access license: This is an open access article licensed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/) which permits unrestricted, non-commercial use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the work is properly cited.
* Address correspondence to this author at the Clinica Psichiatrica Università di Ferrara, Corso Giovecca 203 44100 Ferrara; Tel: +39 0532 236 409; Fax: +39 0532 212 240; E-mail: bruno.biancosino@unife.it
This study explores the patient opinions about the helpfulness of the External Rehabilitative Activities (ERA) delivered in two residential facilities for psychiatric rehabilitation.
We administered a Questionnaire developed to assess general helpfulness, helpfulness of specific therapeutic processes and satisfaction with the ERA to a sample of 46 psychiatric patients participating in at least three external activities.
The External Rehabilitative Activities, tested by the ERA-Questionnaire, were considered helpful or very helpful by most of the patients. The therapeutic process with the highest score was “relaxation”, followed by “general helpfulness”, “socialization”, “knowledge of social context”, “community integration”. The least-valued process was “autonomy”.
This pilot study has shown that psychiatric patients consider ERA helpful and rate more helpful the specific therapeutic processes, such as relaxation and socialization, that assure symptomatic relief and interaction with the outside world.
Keywords: Psychiatric rehabilitation, psychiatric leisure rehabilitation, external rehabilitative activities, patients' opinion.
View Abstract Download PDF
An important effort of psychiatric rehabilitation programs is to counteract the negative social consequences of severe and persistent mental illness, such as exclusion, social isolation and stigmatizing experiences [1].
In a more comprehensive model of rehabilitation, alongside very structured treatment programs, psychiatric leisure rehabilitation can play an important role in impeding the process of desocialization [2]. In fact, leisure or recreational activities, usually not associated with stressful expectations of success and facilitating socialization, help to enhance social relationships, community integration and, lastly, the quality of life of the psychiatric patients [2, 3].
In the community mental health services, many kinds of leisure or recreational activities are usually planned, including sports, arts, entertainment or several external rehabilitative activities usually consisting in day trips [2, 4].
In Italy, the closure of Mental hospitals caused a remarkable development of a widespread variety of Community services, including psychiatric rehabilitation facilities [5]. Rehabilitation treatment(s) often include a program of External Rehabilitative Activities (ERA), which normally consist in day trips or walks to go to cultural shows, the cinema and eating out.
Nevertheless, despite the wide diffusion of these activities in routine clinical practice, data documenting its effectiveness or helpfulness are scarce in psychiatric literature [3, 6].
In light of the importance of the patients’ involvement in the evaluation of treatment and outcome [7], an interesting area of research explored patients’ views about the benefits of their psychiatric treatment [8-10]. In connection with this, a previous study carried out in our psychiatric rehabilitation residential unit examined patient opinions on the helpfulness of several planned treatment programs [11].
Given the need for a better understanding of this area, in this pilot study we aimed to explore the patient opinions about the helpfulness of the ERA delivered in two residential units for psychiatric rehabilitation.
MATERIALS AND METHODOLOGY
Study Setting
Patients were recruited in two psychiatric inpatient(s) units, located in Ferrara, Northern Italy.
The first one, equipped with 16-beds, is part of the Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University of Ferrara, and provides short to medium-term psychiatric rehabilitation treatment for acute or sub-acute severe psychiatric conditions. The second facility, equipped with 32-beds, is part of the Department of Mental Health in Ferrara, and provides long-term psychiatric rehabilitation treatment for chronic severe psychiatric conditions.
In both facilities treatment includes medication, individual psychological support, group psychotherapy and rehabilitative activities including ERA.
During a 14-month recruitment period (between November 1, 2008, and January 1, 2009) all psychiatric patients admitted to the residential facilities, with a stable psychopathological status permitting them to participate in the program of the ERA were screened for inclusion. Only patients participating in at least three external activities were included.
All patients were informed of the aims of the study and gave written consent to participate.
At admission, all the patients underwent a psychiatric interview for diagnosis according to the ICD-10 criteria. Sociodemographic and clinical data were also gathered.
In addition, the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF), a widely used 100-point scale to rate the social, occupational and psychological functioning of adult psychiatric patients and the Spitzer Quality of Life Index (SQL-Index) [12], a general scale measuring five dimensions (activity, daily living, health, support of family and friends, and outlook on the quality of life) were administered by a trained psychiatrist (BB).
After they participated in the ERA, a researcher (FM), not belonging to the staff to minimize bias toward the ERA, asked patients to complete a self-administered 8-item Questionnaire. The Questionnaire, based on research findings by Rudnik [2] was developed through focus groups in our units. The sample of clinicians that participated in the focus groups was composed of different professional figures: four psychiatrists, four psychiatric nurses, two rehabilitation therapists and two social workers, that habitually participate in the external activities. The group generated a list of possible therapeutic processes involved in ERA. The first therapeutic process referred to the possibility that the ERA were helpful in improving relationships with others, and was called “socialization”. The second process, that we called “community integration”, referred to the possibility that the ERA were helpful in improving the degree to which an individual lives and participates in his/her community and interacts with neighbors. The third process, “knowledge of social context”, referred to the possibility that ERA were helpful in improving the degree of knowledge of the history and characteristics of his/her town and the place where the subjects lives. The fourth process, “relaxation”, referred to the possibility that the ERA were helpful in improving the degree of anxiety. The fifth process, “autonomy”, referred to the possibility that the ERA were helpful in improving the competencies to manage an independent life. The processes were transformed into specific questions, obtaining an 8-item Questionnaire (ERA-Q). Of the eight questions, six refer to the opinions on helpfulness of the ERA, such as general helpfulness (e.g. “Did carrying out activities outside of the facility seem helpful to me?”) and helpfulness of single processes of socialization, community integration knowledge of social context, relaxation and autonomy (e.g. “Did external activities help me to socialize with others?”), another one single item refers to general satisfaction and the last one refers to which specific external activities (i.e., cultural exhibitions, the cinema and eating out) were more helpful. The final ERA-Q was brief, easy and sufficiently flexible and aimed to rate the patient opinions on the helpfulness of specific processes and general satisfaction of the ERA on a 5-point Likert scale (from 0=”not at all” to 4=”very helpful”). We used Cronbach’s alpha coefficient to assess the internal consistency of the questionnaire, obtaining an alpha coefficient of 0.79.
The SAS-JMP 7 statistical software was used to describe the variables (descriptive analysis) and to examine the association between socio-demographic and clinical data with the instrument used (Spearman correlation, ANOVA).
Patients’ Sociodemographic and Clinical Characteristics
During the study period, of the 56 patients screened for inclusion, 46 accepted to participate in the study.
There were 17 men (37%) and 29 women (63%), with 18 (38.2%) being less than 45 years of age and 28 (60.9%) 45 years or over. More than two-thirds lived alone (n=31, 67.4%) and nearly one-half of the patients had 8 years of education. Most patients were unemployed (n=38, 82.2%). Diagnosed according to ICD-10 criteria, nearly one-half of the patients suffered from schizophrenia and related psychosis (n=25, 54.3%), and one-third had affective disorders (n=14, 30.4%); personality disorders were diagnosed in 7 subjects (15%). The majority of patients had an age at illness onset between 25 to 35 years and a total numbers of psychiatric admissions between 5 to 10. With regard to the length of stay in the facilities, 19 patients (41%) stayed for less than 3 months and 21 (45%) for more than 1 year.
At study inclusion, the GAF total score was 54 (± 12.6), and the QL-Index total score was 4.9 (± 1.7).
Patient Opinions Regarding the External Social Rehabilitation Activities
The percentage of the patients’ responses to the single ERA-Q are presented in Fig. (1). The general satisfaction with the ERA-Q was high (mean score 3.1 ± 0.8). All specific processes tested by the ERA-Q were considered helpful or very helpful by most of the patients. The item with the highest score was “relaxation” (3.2 ± 0.6), followed by “general helpfulness” (3.1 ± 0.7), “socialization” (3.0±0.8), “knowledge of social context” (2.8±0.7), “community integration”(2.7±0.7), and “autonomy”(2.6 ± 0.8).
Fig. (1).
Distribution of responses on the single items (%) of the Opinions on External Rehabilitation Activities and mean score.
Table 1 reports the activities and their frequency of attendance. The type of activities considered more helpful was “eating out” (n=28, 60.9%), followed by “cultural shows” (n=10, 21.7%) and “the cinema” (n=8, 17.4%).
Activities and Frequency of Attendance
Go to the cultural exhibitions 10 (21.7%)
Eating out 28 (60.9%)
Go to the cinema 8 (17.4%)
No association was found with sex, diagnoses, age at illness onset, length of stay in the units, and GAF, with the ERA-Q. The QL-Index, was significantly correlated with ERA-Q general satisfaction (p < 0.05).
Psychiatric leisure or recreational activities are widely planned in routine clinical practice and can play an important role in psychiatric rehabilitation with the aim of improving social relationships, community integration and reducing social isolation [2]. However, there is a lack of studies in this area of research. To our knowledge, this is the first study setting out to investigate patients’ opinions on external rehabilitative activities.
The main finding was that the majority of patients rated the general helpfulness of the ERA as helpful. This result is consistent with those that emerged in other studies, reporting that free walking, free passes or trips, as forms of freedom, are considered very helpful in psychiatric care whereas restrictions and isolation are considered less helpful [8-11]. Moreover, the value accorded to external rehabilitative activities confirmed the importance of a community psychiatric care with few restrictions and much social interaction with the outside world [11, 13].
With regard to the helpfulness of specific therapeutic processes of external activities, relaxation and socialization were considered more helpful, whereas knowledge of social context, community integration and autonomy were considered less helpful.
A possible explanation for this might be that external activities (usually pleasant and relaxing walks that provide physical exercise, distraction and have a low stressful expectation) combine different therapeutical factors such as relaxation, distraction, physical exercise and pleasant activities, that documented a useful efficacy in the treatment of psychiatric disorders [14, 15].
The importance of socialization might be related to the problem of loneliness among severe mentally ill patients [16]. Probably, the possibility to reduce the subjective experience of loneliness and their difficulty in making and keeping friends, might be more useful for psychiatric patients than just the knowledge of social context or community integration.
This study had some limitations. First, we cannot interpret the rating of helpfulness as a rating of efficacy, yet the use of a questionnaire can be an interesting way to recognize and describe the patients’ opinions and to increase patient involvement in planning therapeutic strategies. A second limitation regards the fact that the ERA-Q has not been validated and represents a first pilot instrument to assess external rehabilitative activities. A third issue has to do with the well-known problem inherent in all research on patient satisfaction. In fact, several biases may influence satisfaction measurement both in psychiatric and medically ill patients. The fear of prejudice from health care professionals in case of negative feedback, the feeling that the staff are really interested in satisfaction or the need to please them are some common variables influencing patients’ responses in satisfaction surveys [17-19]. Other limitations concern the small sample of patients participating in the study and the lack of a control group, both factors limiting the power of the findings.
This preliminary study has shown that psychiatric patients consider ERA helpful and rate more helpful the specific therapeutic processes, such as relaxation and socialization, that assure symptomatic relief and interaction with the outside world. More research is needed to better understand the psychometric properties of the questionnaire we used and its feasibility in other research settings. Future studies on the current topic are also recommended in order to understand which rehabilitative activities can be improved and which may be considered less helpful. This could also enhance our comprehension of the possible relationship between helpfulness and both efficacy of treatment and clinical outcome of psychopathological conditions.
The research group wishes to thank Alirra Grocke for her support in revising the English of the manuscript.
[1] Lasalvia A, Tansella M. Fighting discrimination and stigma against people with mental disorders Epidemiol Psichiatr Soc 2008; 17: 1-9.
[2] Rudnick A. Psychiatric leisure rehabilitation: conceptualization and illustration Psychiatr Rehabil J 2005; 29: 63-5.
[3] Lloyd C, King R, Lampe J, McDougall S. The leisure satisfaction of people with psychiatric disabilities Psychiatr Rehabil J 2001; 25: 107-13.
[4] Pols J, Kroon H. The importance of holiday trips for people with chronic mental health problems Psychiatr Serv 2007; 58: 262-5.
[5] De Girolamo G, Picardi A, Micciolo R, Falloon I, Fioritti A, Morosini P. Residential care in Italy: a national survey of non-hospital facilities Br J Psychiatry 2002; 181: 220-5.
[6] Dor IA, Savaya R. Community rehabilitation for persons with psychiatric disabilities: comparison of the effectiveness of segregated and integrated programs in Israel Psychiatr Rehabil J 2007; 31: 139-48.
[7] Say RE, Thomson R. The importance of patient preferences in treatment decisions- a challenges for doctors BMJ 2003; 327: 542-.
[8] McIntyre K, Farell M, David A. In-patient psychiatric care: the patient’s view Br J Med Psychol 1989; 62: 249-55.
[9] Vartiainen H, Vuorio O, Halonen P, Hakola P. The patients’ opinions about curative factors in involuntary treatment Acta Psychiatr Scand 1995; 91: 163-6.
[10] Langle G, Baum W, Wollinger A, et al. Indicators of quality of in-patient psychiatric treatment: the patients’view Int J Qual Health Care 2003; 15: 213-.
[11] Biancosino B, Barbui C, Pera V, et al. Patient opinions on the benefits of treatment programs in residential psychiatric care Can J Psychiatry 2004; 49: 613-20.
[12] Spitzer W, Dobson A, Hall J. Measuring the quality of life of cancer patients: a concise QL-Index for use by physicians J Chronic Dis 1981; 34: 585-97.
[13] Mosher LR. Soteria and other alternatives to acute psychiatric hospitalization: a personal and professional review J Nerv Ment Dis 1999; 187: 142-9.
[14] Morgan AJ, Jorm AF. Self-help interventions for depressive disorders and depressive symptoms: a systematic review Ann Gen Psychiatry 2008; 7: 13.
[15] Carta MG, Hardoy MV, Pilu A, et al. Improving physical qualità of life with group physical activity in the adjunctive treatment of major depressive disorder Clin Pract Epidemiol Ment Health 2008; 26: 4-1.
[16] Perese EF, Wolf M. Combating loneliness among persons with severe mental illness: social network interventions’ characteristics, effectiveness, and applicability Issues Ment Health Nurs 2005; 26: 591-609.
[17] LeVois M, Nguyen TD, Attkisson CC. Artifact in client satisfaction assessment: experience in community mental health settings Eval Program Plann 1981; 4: 139-50.
[18] Sitzia J, Wood N. Patient satisfaction: a review of issues and concepts Soc Sci Med 1997; 45: 139-50.
[19] Chow A, Mayer EK, Darzi AW, Athanasiou T. Patient-reported outcome measures: the importance of patient satisfaction in surgery Surgery 2009; 146: 435-43.
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Welcome to Coastbeat
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The Pulse of the Coast
WHAT’S ON EVENTS
A beautiful aerial shot of the estuary and beach at Moonee. All photography by Coastal Drones
by Yvette Harper
Published on - 19 Dec 2019
Coastal Drones – Capturing the coast from a new perspective
Blyde and Marius Neser from Coastal Drones captured the gorgeous aerial photograph of two surfboats at Woolgoolga Beach on the cover of Issue 7 of the Coastbeat magazine. We caught up with Blyde at home on the northern beaches of the Coffs Coast.
Cb: Blyde, please share with our readers a little bit about yourself.
Marius and I were born and raised in South Africa and emigrated to Australia a decade ago with our three teenagers. We lived in beautiful Tasmania for two years before settling in Moonee Beach. Relocating your entire household to a foreign country and leaving your friends, family and pets behind is not for the faint-hearted but Australia welcomed us with open arms, and we’ve made very deep connections here. We live in a close, supportive community and feel extremely fortunate to be Australian citizens.
Cb: You’re particularly passionate about aerial photography and call drone photography a game-changer. Can you please elaborate?
Aerial photography is offering a fresh new perspective – allowing you to present different angles at elevations that wouldn’t have been possible otherwise. Aerial photography allows you to capture more infinite details of the bigger picture. As an artist, drone photography has definitely allowed me to become more creative and further develop my skills. I love sharing with others what I see through my own eyes.
A surfer in the deep blue sea at Emerald Beach
Cb: Your husband Marius comes from a long line of aviators and you often work together?
On weekends and after hours, Marius is the chief flying instructor of the Coffs Harbour Aero Club. Our fathers were both in the air force and our son is an air traffic controller so aviation has been part of our family for as long as I can remember. We love a bird’s-eye view of the world and really enjoy showcasing this perspective through our photography. Some of our images are shot from aircrafts but the majority of our aerial photography is done by drone. Marius and our son fly Phantom 4 Pro and I own a Mavic 2 Pro.
Cb: You’re a lover of nature. How do you best celebrate this?
We’re so lucky here on the Coffs Coast to have easy access to raw natural beauty, both coastal and forest. I am truly at peace when I can smell the earth, feel the sand under my feet, hear the waves and birds around me and see the rays of the sun filtering through the trees. Through my photography and social media posts I make a continuous effort to create appreciation for the wonderful world around us so we can work together towards preserving it.
Blyde loves to show her love and appreciation of the natural world through her work
Cb: You’re passionate about protecting the environment for future generations and support a number of charitable causes such as the Great Barrier Reef Foundation. Tell us more.
I was flying in a seaplane towards the Great Barrier Reef a few years ago. The reef suddenly became visible in the distance. It was one of the most breathtaking things I’ve ever seen; I was literally overwhelmed with emotion. Later, whilst snorkelling, I was saddened to experience how many parts of the reef had died due to global warming. There are many things we can do to step in and stop the devastating effect the human race is having on the planet. A portion of all our proceeds from print sales goes towards the Great Barrier Reef Foundation. Every drop counts! We also do pro bono work for a number of other charities and movements.
Another special cause particularly close to my heart is The Fluro Friday movement in Woolgoolga. I am passionate about supporting them not only because I have personally experienced suicide of a parent but because this is such an amazing group of humans. I encourage everyone to join us at Woolgoolga Beach on Friday mornings at 6:30am.
Cb: What do you love most about Aussie life and what’s great about the north coast in particular?
I feel so grateful and blessed to live on the north coast where the beaches are pristine, the weather is perfect, and where tourists are also experiencing such a sought-after holiday destination. We have everything dreams are made of right here in our patch of paradise!
The gorgeous Sapphire Beach, just north of Coffs Harbour
Cb: Care to share your favourite local spots with us?
We really are spoilt for choice. Whether you want to spend time indoors or outdoors, there is plenty to do. For a tree change there are many options including the beautiful Dorrigo National Park, Promised Land, waterfalls or the quirky, laid-back atmosphere and hip cafes of Bellingen.
A lot of people are familiar with the jetty area, but the city centre also has plenty to offer and the recent developments have transformed the look and feel of the CBD. Sotto Zero Gelato at Coffs Central makes the most divine cappuccino – actually it is not divine, it’s wicked!
Emerald Beach is a real gem. You can spot kangaroos and surf legends while sipping on the best chai latte in town, made by the boys from the Emerald Beach General Store.
A surfer observes the passing traffic on the northern beaches of the Coffs Coast
Woolgoolga is a wonderful little community. It has such a vibrant culture and there’s always something happening from the arts to the outdoors, Eat Street and the annual Curryfest.
On Sunday mornings after a beach walk or jog you’ll almost always find me and my friends enjoying the great breakfast and chilled vibe at Ground Earth in Woolgoolga. Like my fellow Ground Earthlings, I’m totally addicted to their lentils.
The Woolgoolga Surf Life Saving Club has a long history. The cover image captures a few of the amazing people involved in the club, including the Woopi Female Boaties (Women’s Surfboat Crew).
The estuary meets the ocean at Moonee (l) and Marius and Blyde Neser (r) of Coastal Drones
For more images by Blyde and Marius see coastaldrones.com.au
Love beautiful photography? Find out more about the talented people behind our other Coastbeat magazine covers – Tom & Sherrin Woods from ST Images, Kian Bates & Justin Gilligan
Stone & Wood Brewery Byron Bay – see what’s at the heart of this conscious company
words by Elize Strydom 9 hours ago
Tree of Life – Discover the origins and family behind the popular bohemian brand
words by Yvette Harper 16 Jan 2020
A Whole Body Treat at the new Laser Clinics Australia in Coffs Harbour
words by Ali Hiddlestone 24 Dec 2019
Captain Cook’s Right-Hand Man – Polynesian navigator, artist and warrior Tupaia
words by Elize Strydom 23 Dec 2019
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Residential Home creates mural in Lampeter
Kristy Davies
FAMILIES who attend Lampeter Family Centre joined together with Cylch Meithrin Carreg Hirfaen and with residents and service users of Hafan Deg Residential Home and Day Centre to create a colourful mural at Hafan Deg Residential Home and Day Centre, Lampeter for residents and visitors to enjoy.
The Lampeter Family Centre visit the residents at Hafan Deg and the Day Centre on a regular basis to keep a the link between young and older strong in the community.
Rachael Jones, Manager of Hafan Deg said: “Thank you to the staff and families at Lampeter Family Centre for helping produce such a lovely mural here at Hafan Deg and Lampeter Day Centre – the residents and service users had lots of fun joining in and getting creative! Our residents, Service users and staff always look forward to visits from the families of Lampeter Family Centre – they bring lots of joy and happiness with them which is a tonic for our residents and service users.”
The mural is a depiction of the town of Lampeter.
Councillor Catherine Hughes is the Cabinet member responsible for Children Services and Culture. She said, “It was great to see a mix of ages taking part in this project. It is important that we maintain the link between young people and older people in communities in Ceredigion, and Lampeter Family Centre does exactly that.”
Elin Vaughan-Miles, Lampeter Family Centre Coordinator said, “It’s been a fantastic experience for the families to be given this enriching experience, thank you to the staff and residents at Hafan Deg for being so willing to let us loose on their walls! The children really enjoyed getting stuck in and we’re all happy with the mural.”
Lampeter Family Centre is open five days a week to all families with children under the age of 11 years old. It is a free, open access environment which provides a service to families in a welcoming and non-judgemental environment.
The centre offer a variety of sessions through the week including baby group, lunch club, language and play sessions for parents and toddlers. They also offer free play sessions, craft activities and ‘Out and About’ sessions which promotes the services on offer in the community
Lampeter Family Centre is situated at the new location: Church House, High Street, Lampeter. For more information, phone 01570 423847 or email lampeterfamilycentre@gmail.com.
Shocking puppy farm scandal exposed
Beach ban lifted for four-legged friend
Young People raise money for local charities
Ben Lake MP pledges support for local pubs in Ceredigion
McDonald’s backs Countryside Fund
Ocean currents affect crop yields
On 10 December 2019, young people from Ysgol Henry Richard’s Cooking Club hosted a Christmas Fayre stall, selling cakes and donated bakes from the local community to raise money for young people receiving care at Angharad Ward, Bronglais Hospital and West Wales Domestic Abuse Service. The club was led by Ceredigion Youth Service and raised over £400 for the charities.
The young people learnt how to make and produce different products, sell and raise money for charity. This gave the young people the opportunity to feel a sense of achievement by giving to others.
Ruby Cook from Ysgol Henry Richard’s Cooking Club said, “Our Cooking Club is made up of young people from Ysgol Henry Richard who attend the after school cooking club. The club focuses on cooking and leaning new life skills. It also gives young people an opportunity to socialise with their friends. We had a great time working on this project, where we baked cakes and had fun in the Christmas Fayre selling them. We would like to thank the local businesses which also donated to our stall. With your support we were able to raise more funds and give more young people gifts this Christmas.”
Mrs Ffion Davies, Ysgol Henry Richard said, “It was a lovely evening seeing the Cooking Club members have fun while making and selling cakes for worthy causes. The enthusiasm the young people showed when giving up their own time to help others at what can be a vulnerable time of year for some was inspiring. Thank you and well done to Ceredigion Youth Service and the Cooking Club members.”
Councillor Catrin Miles is the Cabinet member responsible for Learning Services. She said, “I want to congratulate the Cooking Club for their hard work and great achievement. I’m delighted that they not only raised a good sum for charity, but had fun and learnt at the same time. I’m grateful to the Ceredigion Youth Service for their continued good work and support of young people in the county.”
Ceredigion Youth Service is the designated Service for young people aged 11-25 in Ceredigion, dedicated to supporting young people’s personal, social and educational development through specialised support and open access provision. Provision includes School Based Youth Work, Outreach Youth Work and Youth Clubs. For more information or to find out what opportunities are available to you, head over to their Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages at @GICeredigionYS.
Ben Lake MP has today pledged their support for the Long Live the Local Campaign to help pubs in Ceredigion keep their doors open. Ben Lake joins the more than 240,000 people who have signed the petition so far, including 335 in Ceredigion alone.
Ben Lake MP is calling on the Government to cut beer tax at the Budget. With £1 in every £3 pounds spent in UK pubs going to the taxman, British drinkers now pay 40% of all beer tax across the EU, but drink only 12% of the beer. Seven in ten alcoholic drinks served in pubs are beer, underlining how directly a cut in beer duty will help pubs. Brewing and pubs in Ceredigion supports 1169 jobs and contributes £23.1m to the local economy.
Commenting on the campaign, Ben Lake MP said:
“Pubs are at the heart of communities across Ceredigion, but with three pubs closing their doors for good every day across the UK, we must acknowledge that these community assets are facing significant challenges as they try to stay open. For this reason I am supporting the Long Live the Local campaign and calling on the Chancellor to cut beer tax for licenced premises in this year’s Budget to support pubs in our local communities.”
Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the British Beer & Pub Association, said:
“Beer duty has increased by 60% over the last 17 years and now the UK has one of the highest rates of tax in Europe. When over two thirds of all alcoholic drinks purchased in the pub are beers, a cut in beer tax would go a long way to protecting pubs across Ceredigion. We are very grateful to Ben Lake for their support for the Long Live the Local campaign, and hope that the Government listens to MPs across Parliament and the thousands of people across the country who are calling for a cut in beer tax to protect our pubs.”
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Berlin 2019: Fourteen review
By CineVue 09/02/2019 Berlin / Patrick Gamble
Fourteen, the follow-up to former Los Angeles Reader film critic Dan Sallitt’s incest drama The Unspeakable Act, is a subdued drama about a friendship ageing over time. A nuanced portrait of female camaraderie presented in all its messy complexity.
Mara (Tallie Medel) and Jo (Norma Kuhling) have been best friends since they were 14. Mara is dependable; an aspiring writer who works during the day as a school aid and moonlights in the evenings as a tutor to underperforming kids. Jo, on the other hand, is unreliable, routinely getting fired from her job as a social worker and parasitically dependent on her friend for emotional support.
Neither of their lives are stable, with the only real constant their friendship. If Jo is struggling with the depression that has troubled her throughout adolescence, she’ll ring Mara, who’ll drop everything and head over to her flat. But Jo’s health is getting worse, and Mara finds herself forced to fulfil the role of a one-woman support network, with their ostensibly solicitous connection gradually revealed to be an increasingly suffocating attachment.
Sallit’s films have often been compared to those of Éric Rohmer; focused on characters who are severely repressed and inexpressive, and Fourteen is no different, yet behind its impassive veneer lies a filmmaker with a keen eye for the fineries of human interaction. Deceptively simple, the film oozes honesty and spontaneity, with an elliptical structure that sees the peripheral characters in Jo and Mara’s life drift in and out of view. The pair are sympathetic, yet annoyingly blasé, their entanglements mundane but also fascinating, with Sallitt capturing the unspoken moments of intense connection between the two as they muddle through life together.
This restrained mode necessitates strong performances. Medel, already familiar with Sallitt’s dialogue-heavy approach from her breakout role in The Unspeakable Act steers the film commendably, but it’s Kuhling who steals the show. She speaks in a seemingly confident, yet self-revising hurry, switching erratically between assertion and confession with her awkward body language, and the hysteric quiver under her voice quietly amplifying a cry-for-help timbre.
The camera quietly observes their shifting dynamic. When together, the pair are rarely outside the frame, with Sallitt using a series of creative staging techniques to express their dependence through clever composition. But even when they’re apart, the phone conversations between the two – invariably overheard from Mara’s perspective – place a large emphasis on the negative space between them, with Sallit intelligently drawing the viewer’s attention to the nuances of Mars’s physicality and the specificity of her every gesture. As the film proceeds, and the pair’s sisterly union begins to fall apart, these phone conversations become more frequent as the drama veers in an increasingly painful direction. Yet despite this, the film’s note of anxiety remains muffled throughout.
Rich with scenes of affection and reconciliation, the most charming thing about Fourteen is the degree to which Sallitt finds a balance between his own brand of independent filmmaking and the kind of French middle-class realism he’s clearly influenced by. The film’s dynamic performances and admirable lack of moralising leaves it straddling the line at which non-professional shrewdness and technical accomplishment meet. The result is a quietly radical film that centralise a friendship between two women without relying on histrionics or the interference of men, instead quietly observing the invisible building blocks of a relationship that forms out of nothing and disappears just as effortlessly.
The Berlin Film Festival runs from 7-17 February. Follow our coverage here.
Patrick Gamble | @PatrickJGamble
LFFPatrick Gamble
LFF 2013: ‘The Past’ review
Patrick GambleReviews
Film Review: ’99 Homes’
BFI London Film Festival 2012: ‘Beyond the Hills’ review
BerlinRory O’Connor
Berlin 2019: The Souvenir review
BFI London Film Festival: ‘Pariah’
IFFR 2019: Sheena667 review
Berlin 2019: Monsters review
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Review: Aquaman Vol. 6: Kingslayer trade paperback (DC Comics)
0 comments | Tags: Aquaman
Aquaman Vol. 6: Kingslayer marks the final parts of what's been an impressive 14-part (et al) storyline in Dan Abnett's Rebirth Aquaman series. This kind of modular, long-form storyline (essentially continuous over three volumes) is almost unheard of in this day and age of easily digestible six-parters, reminding of Aquaman's own classic "Search for Mera" or "Zatanna's Search" from the 1960s, or the 1980s "Trial of the Flash" (if not quite that long). Abnett's even reflected the Atlantean civil war in a couple of other titles, as well as in the Mera, Queen of Atlantis tie-in miniseries.
This would also seem to be the last independent trade of Abnett's superlative Aquaman run, collecting issues #34-38. Issues #39-40 will appear in a Suicide Squad crossover volume and issues #41-42 are part of the "Drowned Earth" Justice League event; with issue #43, new Aquaman writer Kelly Sue DeConnick takes over. So in some respects, Kingslayer is the finale, though everything doesn't quite feel complete, and my fervent hope is that Abnett can still use these crossover issues to wrap up some of Aquaman's threads before he goes.
Though simmering under the surface for a while, the Atlantean civil war story really kicked off right at the end of Abnett's Aquaman Vol. 3: Crown of Atlantis, before starting in earnest in Aquaman Vol. 4: Underworld. Abnett's Rebirth Aquaman series had seen both Aquaman Arthur Curry and consort Mera acting as diplomats for Atlantis in the surface world, and Aquaman largely divesting himself of Atlantean politics directly. That turns out to be to his detriment, as in their anger the Atlanteans depose Arthur, and tyrant king Corum Rath takes control.
The shift in the third volume, and from the third to the fourth, was jarring; at its outset, Abnett's series was akin to "Aquaman meets West Wing," and then suddenly it became a swords and sorcery book. The fact that Arthur was in large part trapped in Atlantis made the book's transformation complete; we mostly lost such surface-based supporting cast as Officer Erika Watson, FBI agents Irving and Ajar, and the British Royal Navy's Joanna Stubbs. It's a credit to Abnett that Aquaman is still compelling after being in some respects almost completely revamped (and that Abnett had the ability to basically soft relaunch his own title in medias res). But, the first half of the book halted so suddenly that itself it never felt complete, and while the Atlantean civil war has wrapped up nicely, that Abnett's run will end so soon makes me concerned he won't have a chance to reconcile the first part with the second.
In many respects, what was at issue when the Atlantean civil war started is no longer the case. Arthur did not want to rule Atlantis but believed reluctantly he'd have to do so, while Mera wanted him to leave Atlantis and live on the surface. Now, Arthur realizes his inability to lead Atlantis and Mera has agreed to rule Atlantis, and one would expect them to rule together, except Atlantis has been inadvertently raised to the surface. As such, to make this Aquaman run truly complete, now I'm hoping Abnett will return to some of the concepts from the beginning of this run, filtered through the new circumstances: Atlantean diplomats and the idea of an Atlantean embassy like the Spindrift Station that Black Manta destroyed almost immediately after it opened.
Five issues is no slouch, but Kingslayer is on the shorter side of trades, and with one of its five issues devoted to Corum Rath's mostly-already-known backstory (though drawn by Kelley Jones), it feels abbreviated. Of course, Kingslayer is the final part of a trilogy, essentially, and taken all together, there really shouldn't be complaints about the length (DC recently re-released Underworld as a deluxe edition likely mainly for movie synchronicity and to showcase Stjepan Sejic's art). If not an omnibus of Abnett's Aquaman, then at least issues #23-38 or #25-38 (plus the Mera miniseries and an issue of Justice League, if not also Titans) deserve to be collected all together.
Aquaman's final victory over Corum Rath is not particularly surprising (especially after the end of Mera), nor was the rising of Atlantis, foreshadowed as it was in Dark Nights: Metal (if anything, I'll be curious to see if Abnett can sink Atlantis again in the span of four more issues). For me, the real meat of this book was the second chapter, in which Arthur finally encounters his former royal guardsman Murk. Gruff but stalwart and loyal, Murk left Arthur for Rath when Rath became king; among Abnett's more memorable new characters, Murk represented a counterpoint to Arthur's own ideals, dedicated to Atlantis in whatever form it took (whereas Arthur often felt he knew better for Atlantis than its own people did).
Murk seemingly killed Arthur, though we knew that wasn't the case; the question was whether Murk was secretly working for Arthur in Rath's guard. Here we learn Murk did indeed injure Arthur, hoping that Arthur would simply heal and go away for good; keeping Murk as complicated as ever, Abnett does not mitigate Murk's unflinching dedication to Atlantis. Only when Rath has proved himself truly evil does Murk agree to help Arthur overthrow him, during which Murk is grievously injured. I'm glad Abnett didn't kill Murk outright, though it seemed possible for a while (quite a number of characters seemed on the chopping block), and some epilogue to Murk's arc is also something I hope for in the next four issues.
Stjepan Sejic only drew Aquaman Vol. 4: Underworld, but we got a very good replacement in Aquaman Vol. 5: The Crown Comes Down in Riccardo Federici. Penning almost all the chapters here as well, Federici's sketchy style, along with Sunny Gho's colors, make Kingslayer a sight to behold, between Federici's depictions of Rath's undead army and his uncanny way of illustrating hair flowing underwater. There's some strong covers by Howard Porter as well as a couple by Sejic; Joshua Middleton's variant covers have been astounding throughout this run.
Support Collected Editions -- Purchase Aquaman Vol. 6: Kingslayer
Dan Abnett hooked me with the politics in his Aquaman run and kept me for the long haul with the strength of his characters. Forty-two issues seems too short and I'd have been interested to know what the next iteration of Abnett's run would have looked like. Aquaman Vol. 6: Kingslayer is fortunately not quite the end, but unfortunately it's close; I hope this run gets the recognition it deserves in the annals of Aquaman history.
[Includes original and variant covers, character sketches and layouts]
Aquaman Vol. 6: Kingslayer
4 (scale of 1 to 5)
Posted at 7:02 PM (Permalink) | 0 comments | Tags: Aquaman
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Comics & Comic Art Comic Art (1) Comics (29)
Very Good 4.0 to Very Fine- 7.5 Poor 0.1 to Very Good- 3.5 (7) Very Fine 8.0 to Near Mint- 9.2 (7) Near Mint 9.4 to Gem Mint 10.0 (4)
All Signature Auctions (2) All Internet and Final Session Auctions (27)
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CGC (16) CBCS (1) Uncertified (11)
The Thing! #5 (Charlton, 1952) CGC VF- 7.5 Cream to off-white pages....
The Thing! #1 (Charlton, 1952) CGC VF- 7.5 Off-white to white pages....
Auction 121832 | Lot: 12782 | Aug 12, 2018
The Thing! #4 (Charlton, 1952) CGC FN 6.0 Off-white to white pages....
Auction 121416 | Lot: 10481 | Apr 20, 2014
The Thing! #4 (Charlton, 1952) CGC FN+ 6.5 Off-white to white pages....
Auction 121930 | Lot: 17874 | Jul 28, 2019
The Thing! #1 (Charlton, 1952) Condition: FN/VF. This early Charlton horror book may have been inspired by the 1951 movie of...
Auction 752 | Lot: 51247 | Sep 9, 2006
The Thing! #1 (Charlton, 1952) CGC VG 4.0 Cream to off-white pages....
The Thing! #3 (Charlton, 1952) CBCS FN+ 6.5 Off-white to white pages....
The Thing! #3 Northford pedigree (Charlton, 1952) CGC VF- 7.5 Off-white to white pages. This fantastic cover by Albert Tyler...
Auction 806 | Lot: 6523 | Mar 8, 2003
Auction 19054 | Lot: 14800 | May 24, 2009
The Thing! #4 (Charlton, 1952) CGC FN+ 6.5 Off-white pages. Overstreet 2002 FN 6.0 value = $150....
Auction 12101 | Lot: 31849 | Oct 6, 2002
The Thing! #2 (Charlton, 1952) CGC VF- 7.5 White pages....
The Thing! #3 (Charlton, 1952) Condition: VG/FN....
The Thing! #5 (Charlton, 1952) Condition: VG....
The Thing! #4 (Charlton, 1952) CGC FN+ 6.5 Off-white pages. Al Fago cover. Overstreet 2002 FN 6.0 value = $150....
Auction 13021 | Lot: 17718 | Feb 2, 2003
The Thing! #2 (Charlton, 1952) Condition: FN....
The Thing! #3 (Charlton, 1952) CGC FN- 5.5 Off-white pages....
The Thing! #4 (Charlton, 1952) Condition: FN+....
The Thing! #5 (Charlton, 1952) Condition: FN-....
The Thing! #5 (Charlton, 1952) CGC FN+ 6.5 Cream to off-white pages. Beautiful pre-Code horror with a severed head cover. Ov...
Auction 13041 | Lot: 17930 | Apr 6, 2003
The Thing! #1 (Charlton, 1952) Condition: VG+. "Shrunken head cover" according to Overstreet. Overstreet 2004 VG 4.0 value =...
Auction 14062 | Lot: 17953 | Jun 20, 2004
The Thing! #2 (Charlton, 1952) Condition: VG+....
The Thing! #5 (Charlton, 1952) CGC Apparent FN+ 6.5 Slight (A) Cream to off-white pages....
Auction 18091 | Lot: 11418 | Sep 7, 2008
Auction 121119 | Lot: 14519 | May 8, 2011
Auction 19044 | Lot: 14463 | Apr 26, 2009
The Thing! #2 (Charlton, 1952) CGC VG+ 4.5 Cream to off-white pages. Pre-Code horror. Bob Forgione cover. Overstreet 2003 VG...
Auction 750 | Lot: 1134 | Aug 13, 2003
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December Recognition Details
The Chancellor’s Recognition Ceremony for December Degree Candidates
Athletic Complex, Danforth Campus
Reception Immediately Following
Tickets are not required. Seats are available first come, first served.
The Procession
Candidates should march in front of or behind the person with whom they wish to sit, not side by side.
By 9:00 a.m., all candidates must be in the Sumers Gym to pick up their name card and line up at the assembly point. Please bring your student id when checking in.
The procession begins at 10:00 a.m. sharp.
The program begins with a “Welcome” from Chancellor Martin, followed by the Speaker’s Remarks, and the Recognition of Candidates for Degrees.
Singing of “America the Beautiful” (candidates should remove caps).
The grand marshal will announce the names of each candidate as they walk across the stage to shake hands with Chancellor Martin.
The Recession
All candidates will recess from the Field House under the direction of the ceremony marshals.
Candidates should arrange to meet friends and relatives at the reception to alleviate crowding and enable a quick exit from the ceremony.
The ceremony typically concludes no later than 11:30 a.m.
Please note that individual pictures of each student will be taken as they cross the stage and will be available from professional photographers.
Out of consideration for others, please keep the front of the stage and pathways clear during the ceremony.
University photos and video of the December Recognition Ceremony will be posted on Widen and YouTube.
Online streaming and closed captioning
The December Recognition Ceremony will also be streamed online and accessible via the Commencement homepage and will include live captions.
For guests needing wheelchairs, a limited number are available by reservation before
Nov. 28th.If you need further assistance you may contact Rosetta Saputo at 314-935-5669 or rsaputo@wustl.edu.
Parking is available in the Snow Way parking garage (98) and the Danforth University Center underground parking garage (DUC) (94). A drop off zone will be available on the surface lot east of the Athletic complex. This lot will also be reserved for those needing accessible parking. See Google Map.
Place your order today for a graduation bouquet. Flowers will be available for pickup on the morning of the ceremony. Don’t forget to order graduation announcements !
#WashU19 and email updates
Help celebrate the Class of 2019 by sharing your tweets, photos, and videos using our official Commencement hashtag #WashU19
Returning for Commencement
All students graduating in December are invited to return to Commencement in May.
Sign up for Commencement communications updates for more information regarding May Commencement here.
If candidates successfully complete all degree requirements, their degree will be officially conferred by the Chancellor and the Board of Trustees in January. Diplomas will be mailed at the end of January and may take several weeks to arrive.
December Ceremony Wheelchair Reservation Request
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Cancer Research Community
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Dr. Yexun (”Bill”) Wang
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Cancer Insights Sessions on multimodal analysis in liquid biopsies
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David Byrne performs “Road to Nowhere” with cast of American Utopia Broadway on Fallon: Watch
The Talking Heads legend also biked on stage for a quick interview
on November 20, 2019, 11:15am
David Byrne and the American Utopia Broadway cast
Supporting his acclaimed Broadway production American Utopia, David Byrne appeared as a guest on The Tonight Show on Tuesday night. In addition to talking with Jimmy Fallon about the show, he and his Broadway cast performed “Road to Nowhere” off 1985’s Little Creatures.
Having previously delivered a show-stopping performance of “One Fine Day” on Kimmel last month, Byrne continued to showcase the overall America Utopia experience on Fallon. This reworked rendition of “Road to Nowhere” began with Byrne and a few other musicians singing in the dark. As the lights went up, out marched a much bigger group of performers, tramping right over to Fallon’s desk. Eventually, The Roots joined in, building to a big chain of happiness dancing around the studio.
For the interview segment, Byrne actually biked onstage to greet Fallon. He then sat down to discuss adapting his touring show for Broadway and how the audiences have reacted to it. He even taught the host how to do a dance from the musical. Watch a replay of the chat and performance below.
(Read: Top 25 Tours of the 2010s)
David Byrne’s American Utopia on Broadway was recently extended through February 16th at the Hudson Theater in New York City. After watching his Fallon performance below, don’t be surprised if you find yourself dying to see him do it all again live. Get tickets to the production here.
Byrne previously appeared on This Must Be the Gig, where he talked with our own Lior Philips about his production on the American Utopia tour. Revisit the episode below:
Download | Listen and subscribe via iTunes | Google Play | Stitcher | RSS
Alternative Music News
Shaky Knees 2020 lineup: The Strokes, The Black Keys, Smashing Pumpkins to headline
Wu-Tang Clan are getting their very own amusement park in South Korea
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LOFAR for Space Weather
LOFAR4SW
Funded under:
H2020-EU.1.4.1.1.
Overall budget:
EU contribution
Coordinated by:
STICHTING NEDERLANDSE WETENSCHAPPELIJK ONDERZOEK INSTITUTEN
TThe LOFAR for Space Weather (LOFAR4SW) design proposal will deliver the full conceptual and technical design for creating a new leading-edge European research facility for space weather science.
Space weather research is prominent in international research programmes (e.g., H2020, ESA, WMO, COSPAR), because of its high societal relevance: vital infrastructures depend on technology that is vulnerable to the impact of space weather events, particularly geomagnetic storms related to solar outbursts. The implemented LOFAR4SW facility will enable high-impact solar and space weather research, and will uniquely provide the missing link of global measurements of the interplanetary magnetic field – a key parameter in forecasting the severity of geomagnetic storms.
The LOFAR4SW design project maximally leverages the infrastructure and technology of LOFAR; now the world’s foremost low frequency radio astronomy telescope and a widely recognised enabler of innovation. Designing a significant upgrade in hardware, algorithms, and software will allow to create, at a fraction of the cost of building a new facility, a large scale cutting-edge research facility providing simultaneous independent access to both the radio astronomy and the space weather research communities.
For the LOFAR4SW systems design approach, the consortium has a powerful combination of partners, with clear, focused work packages that engage science experts motivated by the physical research challenges and with up-to-date knowledge of the data analysis methods, and link these to engineers intimately familiar with LOFAR and highly experienced in low frequency and data-intensive processing techniques. Emphasis will also be placed on Dissemination of designed data analysis methods to prepare prospective users, on Governance development with stakeholders and policy makers to ensure a support base for a smooth evolution of the LOFAR facility, and on Outreach to promote wider public awareness of space weather issues.
Field of Science
Programme(s)
H2020-EU.1.4.1.1. - Developing new world-class research infrastructures
INFRADEV-01-2017 - Design Studies
Call for proposal
H2020-INFRADEV-2017-1
See other projects for this call
RIA - Research and Innovation action
Leaflet | Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors, Credit: EC-GISCO, © EuroGeographics for the administrative boundaries
Contact the organisation
STICHTING ASTRON, NETHERLANDS INSTITUTE FOR RADIO ASTRONOMY
Oude Hoogeveensedijk 4
7991pd Dwingeloo
Sort by EU Contribution
UNIVERSITAET BIELEFELD
CENTRUM BADAN KOSMICZNYCH POLSKIEJ AKADEMII NAUK
STICHTING INTERNATIONAL LOFAR TELESCOPE
CHALMERS TEKNISKA HOEGSKOLA AB
UNITED KINGDOM RESEARCH AND INNOVATION
THE PROVOST, FELLOWS, FOUNDATION SCHOLARS & THE OTHER MEMBERS OF BOARD OF THE COLLEGE OF THE HOLY & UNDIVIDED TRINITY OF QUEEN ELIZABETH NEAR DUBLIN
Periodic Reporting for period 1 - LOFAR4SW (LOFAR for Space Weather)
Reporting period: 2017-12-01 to 2019-05-31
Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project
The LOFAR for Space Weather project (LOFAR4SW) addresses the Horizon 2020 Work Programme, and the INFRADEV-1-2017 Call – ‘Design Studies’. The project will deliver the full conceptual and technical design for creating a new leading-edge European research facility for space weather science. The LOFAR4SW project is engaging stakeholders in preparation of the facility which produces unique research data with key impact on advanced predictions of space weather events affecting crucial technological infrastructures of today’s society.
LOFAR4SW is designing a significant upgrade of hardware, algorithms and software that maximally leverages the technology and infrastructure of the LOw Frequency ARray (LOFAR), already the world’s foremost telescope for radio astronomy research in the low-frequency 10-240 MHz observing window, and a widely recognised enabler of technological innovation.
An important gap in the world’s space weather research capabilities must be filled by unlocking the low-frequency radio window. Building on the technology and European coverage of the International LOFAR Telescope (ILT) infrastructure, a fully implemented LOFAR4SW system will be designed to observe the sun, heliosphere, and ionosphere constantly. LOFAR4SW will enable ground breaking advancement in a wide range of solar and space weather research topics and have unique strengths in several high-impact science areas: tracking the initial launch of a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME); detailed tracking of the solar wind and CMEs through interplanetary space; in-depth studies of micro-structure in the Earth’s ionosphere. The LOFAR4SW facility is the only way to obtain transformational 3-dimensional tomographic data on velocities and densities that track space weather dynamics throughout space between the Sun and the Earth (the inner heliosphere). This facility will uniquely provide the missing link of measurements of the interplanetary magnetic field on those global scales – a key parameter in forecasting the severity of geomagnetic storm on Earth.
Cutting-edge LOFAR observing and data analysis technology has strongly advanced in recent years, enabling world-leading results from large-scale research programmes across many areas of radio astronomy science. Based on that state-of-the-art, LOFAR4SW is now designing a significant upgrade, in which simultaneous, independent observing modes and signal paths provide continuous access to two research communities: radio astronomy and space weather. This can immediately be implemented to function as a major leading-edge observatory for space weather science, in a fraction of the time and at a fraction of the cost that would be involved in developing a fully new facility (the investment in realizing substantial LOFAR4SW science capabilities is estimated to be of order 15 M€, as compared to investments in LOFAR totalling upward of 150 M€ to date). The LOFAR4SW design effort is proceeding in optimal synergy with significant upgrades of the LOFAR infrastructure for radio astronomy purposes (“LOFAR2.0”) that are under way independently.
Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far
The LOFAR4SW design study is following a comprehensive Systems Engineering approach, carefully tailored for this project. The effort breaks down naturally into eight cohesive Work Packages, interrelated through a well-defined workflow, that incorporates a set of milestones and internal project workshops and review meetings, with appropriate interaction points between the work packages.
The project started in December 2017. At mid-term, with all work packages having met their delivery schedules, it is now in its Detailed Design Phase. The LOFAR4SW Preliminary Design Review took place in February 2019. The panel of independent experts was “impressed with the quantity and quality of the work accomplished to date on what is a very interesting, challenging, but potentially transformative new suite of LOFAR capabilities”.
A highly productive workshop with experts from the broad global space weather research community has resulted in a comprehensive collection of Science Use cases, that is being prepared for full publication. A strong focus towards modelling for forecasting and prediction purposes must be balanced by a continuing drive towards key unanswered fundamental physical questions.
The system and sub-system requirements that have been derived from the set of use cases now guide the detailed design of the requisite hardware, software, and operational procedures for the LOFAR4SW upgrade. A hardware test platform is in place at the Chilbolton (UK) station. Several pilot and demonstration observing sessions have already taken place using innovative instrumental setups and prototype data analysis software.
Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)
LOFAR4SW aims to redefine how next-generation radio telescopes can advance the state-of-the art in space weather science and operations. Building on LOFAR, which is cutting-edge to start with, the LOFAR4SW project will design the most advanced space weather radio instrument in the world. Space weather can have socioeconomic impact in multiple ways, including damage to radio communication infrastructure and electricity grids. The LOFAR4SW facility will provide ground-breaking insights applicable for the forecasting of any adverse impact on this societal infrastructure, ultimately contributing to a greater protection of humanity's most essential technologies.
The use cases compiled in the LOFAR4SW project confirm the impressive impact that the envisaged LOFAR4SW upgrade will have. This high potential has already been publicised at several well-attended conferences in the field; comprehensive publication of the collected use cases is in preparation. In order to inform key members of the space weather community about the unique capabilities of LOFAR4SW, and to obtain further feedback at this stage of the design, a first end-user workshop is being planned for autumn 2019.
The LOFAR4SW project increases the European innovation potential by delivering new data analysis algorithms and tools to the community. Through a series of workshops and presentations, it aims to create a broad awareness of these new technologies, and a focused and timely support base of knowledgeable scientists ready to use the LOFAR4SW facility from its inception. The project also will seek interaction with policy makers, space weather services, and other stakeholders in order to lay down concept designs for operations and governance that will facilitate the trans-national implementation of the facility and will optimize its exploitation across the European and international space weather research communities.
Graphic on LOFAR4SW
Leaflet on LOFAR4SW
Documents, reports (5)
PDR Panel Report
List of interested scientists, potential science cases and desired system characteristics
Dissemination and Exploitation Plan
Science Requirements for PDR
Final report on other Space Weather observatories
Open Research Data Pilot (1)
Data Management Plan
Websites, patent fillings, videos etc. (1)
Peer reviewed articles (2)
Variable emission mechanism of a Type IV radio burst
Author(s): D. E. Morosan, E. K. J. Kilpua, E. P. Carley, C. Monstein
Published in: Astronomy & Astrophysics, Issue 623, 2019, Page(s) A63, ISSN 0004-6361
Properties and magnetic origins of solar S-bursts
Author(s): Brendan P. Clarke, Diana E. Morosan, Peter T. Gallagher, Vladimir V. Dorovskyy, Alexander A. Konovalenko, Eoin P. Carley
Published in: Astronomy & Astrophysics, Issue 622, 2019, Page(s) A204, ISSN 0004-6361
Last update: 3 September 2019
Record number: 212950
Participation ended
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Latest in Jennifer Cecil
‘Notorious’ Producer Jennifer Cecil Inks Overall Deal With Sony TV
Notorious executive producer Jennifer Cecil has signed a two-year overall deal with Sony TV, the studio behind the ABC drama series. Under the pact, she will continue working on Notorious and develop new projects. Cecil wrote last year’s dramedy pilot Mix for ABC through Warner Bros TV-based Le Train Train. She…
NBC Developing Dramedy Inspired By Former Texas Senator Wendy Davis
Wendy Davis made national headlines in 2013 for filibustering anti-abortion legislation in the Texas Senate. Now the former Democratic state senator is poised for more national attention as the inspiration for a dramedy series in development at NBC. Written by Jennifer Cecil, the untitled project centers on a female…
ABC Buys Restaurant Family Dramedy From Le Train Train & Jennifer Cecil
In its first development season, Rashida Jones and Will McCormack’s Le Train Train production company set up several high-profile half-hour projects and landed a series order for NBC’s romantic comedy A to Z. Now the Warner Bros. TV-based banner is signaling an expansion to hourlong projects with its first sale of the…
Jennifer Cecil & Barbie Kligman Upped To Co-Head Writers On ABC's 'Private Practice'
EXCLUSIVE: Private Practice co-executive producers Jennifer Cecil and Barbie Kligman have been promoted to executive producers/co-head writers on the ABC medical drama. The duo will run the writers room, working with Private Practice creator/executive producer Shonda Rhimes who will continue as showrunner, a role she…
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Carry your university ID
On Sunday, Oct. 9, the Danforth Campus will be accessible only to Washington University students, faculty and staff with a valid university ID, or credentialed media/vendors. Please carry your ID with you at all times.
Due to additional security measures that will be in place for the Oct. 9 presidential debate, access to Washington University’s Danforth Campus will be restricted as follows:
(PLEASE NOTE CHANGES TO ID REQUIREMENTS ON SATURDAY, OCT. 8)
On Saturday, Oct. 8, any individual on the Danforth Campus may be asked to show ID (university or government-issued).
On Sunday, Oct. 9, the Danforth Campus will be accessible only to Washington University students, faculty and staff with a valid university ID, or credentialed media/vendors.
There will be NO FOOD DELIVERIES ALLOWED from non-credentialed vendors to the Danforth Campus on Sunday, Oct. 9. Please do not order food for delivery on Sunday.
From Friday, Oct. 7 to Monday, Oct. 10, the student guest policy will be suspended and non-Washington University students will not be permitted to register as guests during this time. See the Residential Life website for more information.
Beginning on Thursday, Oct. 6, campus-wide security will require all students to show a valid university ID to enter secured perimeters within campus. Because of their proximity to the debate site, fraternity houses on the Upper Row will be enclosed within one of the security perimeters and residents will be required to use a single point of entrance to their residences. Residents of affected houses will receive a daily email with updates on security requirements, as they are subject to change based on security needs. Contact Residential Life with questions. For information about posting flyers or other communications in or around fraternity houses, please review the Residential Life posting policies, General Publicity Guidelines and the University Posting Policy.
For more information about how the debate will affect our campuses and community, visit the For Our Community section of this website.
Athletic Complex closure
Public Expression Zone
Ticket lottery
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Biology Questions for NDA: 27th August
Dear Aspirants, Biology is an important subject for various exams like NDA, CDS, AFCAT, CAPF and other Police Exams. Here at Defence Adda we provide you with the quizzes based on the syllabus and pattern of these exams. The questions asked are of 10th level and preparing with a wide variety of questions will only help you in these exams. Here is a quiz based on the latest syllabus of these exams based on topics like Diseases, Vitamins and Minerals, Cell Theory etc to help you prepare with a wide variety of questions.
Q1. Which of the following plants have root nodules?
(a) Leguminous plants
(b) Parasitic plants
(c) Epiphytic Plants
(d) Aquatic Plants
Q2. Earthworms belongs to the phylum -
(a) Protozoa
(b) Cnidaria
(c) Annelida
(d) Mollusca
Q3. Ringworm is a disease caused by -
(a) Fungi
(b) Bacteria
(c) Virus
(d) Flies
Q4. Mangifera indica is the scientific name of -
(a) Guava
(b) Mango
(c) Amla
(d) Jack fruit
Q5. Crabs belongs to the phylum -
(a) Mollusca
(c) Arthropoda
(d) Platyhelminthes
Q6. Prawns belong to which family?
(a) Crustaceans
(b) Fish
(c) Amphibians
(d) Reptiles
Q7. Vitamin A is also known as _____.
(a) Thiamine
(b) Riboflavin
(c) Retinol
(d) Calciferol
Q8. What is the basic unit of heredity?
(a) DNA
(b) RNA
(c) Chromosome
(d) Gene
Q9. Which drug is used for Pain Relief?
(a) Risedronate
(b) Tramadol
(c) Folic Acid
(d) Bupropion
Q10. Bovidae Ovis is the scientific name of _____.
(a) Goat
(b) Cow
(c) Buffalo
(d) Sheep
Sol. A legume is a plant or its fruit or seed in the family Fabaceae. Legumes are grown agriculturally, primarily for their grain seed called pulse, for livestock forage and silage, and as soil-enhancing green manure. Many legumes have root nodules that provide a home for symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria called rhizobia.
Sol. Earthworms belongs to the Annelida Phylum.
Sol. Ringworm of the skin (tinea corporis) is most commonly caused by the fungus Trichophyton rubrum, which spreads from one person to another.
Sol. Mangifera Indica is scientific name of Mango.
Sol. Crabs belongs to the phylum Arthropoda.
Sol. Prawns are crustaceans similar in appearance to shrimps, but they can be distinguished by the gill structure which is branching in prawns and not in shrimp.
Sol. Vitamin A is also known as retinol because it produces the pigments in the retina of the eye. Vitamin A promotes good vision, especially in low light.
S8. Ans.(d)
Sol. A gene is the basic physical and functional unit of heredity. Genes, which are made up of DNA, act as instructions to make molecules called proteins.
Sol. Tramadol is used to treat moderate to moderately severe pain.
S10. Ans.(d)
Sol. Bovidae Ovis is the scientific name of Sheep.
Biology Questions for NDA: 27th August Reviewed by Roshan Kumar on August 27, 2018 Rating: 5
Biology Quiz
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Postseason Positional Analysis Part III: Wide Receivers
Andrew Dannehy | January 12th, 2016
If the Bears can ever get — and stay — healthy at the wide receiver position, their offense should really take off. Their top four receivers missed a combined 36 games, with the only one playing over half their snaps being Marquess Wilson. Youngers players stepped up and made plays but the position, expected to be a strength, ended up being a weakness.
ALSHON
If you took the numbers Alshon Jeffery put up in 8 1/2 games this season and calculated them out to a 16-game total, you see a star. The numbers are roughly 102 catches, 1,520 yards and eight touchdowns. Looks great, but you can’t give him credit for 16 games when he doesn’t play 16 games. Injuries are his biggest problem and there’s no reason to think they will go away. So how do the Bears assign him a value?
By not signing Jeffery before the season, the Bears made it clear they didn’t view him as an elite receiver. As good as he was at times, it’s hard to say he did anything to increase his value. The Bears can’t let Jeffery hit the open market, however, because someone else will offer him top-tier receiver money and Chicago doesn’t have a replacement. Whether it be with the Franchise Tag or a long-term contract, the Bears need to bring Jeffery back.
We don’t know what Kevin White is. We think he’s a stud and when we hear Ryan Pace say he can’t wait to “unleash” him, it makes us believe that even more. Still, he’s going to be raw and nobody has a clue what kind of long-term effects the leg injury might have on him.
EDDIE & FRIENDS
The plan for Eddie Royal was to have him destroy teams underneath while Jeffery and White stretched the field. Instead, Royal ended up being the best wide receiver on the team in most of the games he played. We only got to see what Royal could do in a couple of games (Oakland, Detroit) then injuries limited his explosiveness and availability.
With Royal’s entire salary guaranteed for next year, he’s almost a lock to make the team.
Although miscast as a second receiver, Marquess Wilson did some good things this year, leading the team with 16.6 yards per catch. He seemed to get open deep quite a few times too but he and Cutler just couldn’t connect. Wilson’s problem? He’s been unavailable nearly as much as he’s been available in his career. Even at 23, next year could be a make or break year.
It can be argued that no Bears receiver made more key catches than Marc Mariani with 19 of his 22 catches going for first downs. When plays broke down, Mariani found open spots and Cutler hit him for big gains. He came into this season with 5 catches. In 2015 he caught 22 for 300 yards.
The problem with keeping both Wilson and Mariani is that the fourth and fifth receivers are expected to play special teams and neither are particularly strong contributors in that phase. Wilson doesn’t have much experience and he lacks the strength to block or tackle. Mariani has been a return specialist in his career but hasn’t been a very good one for the Bears, averaging just 6.6 yards per punt return. He lost his job as a kick returner to Deonte Thompson.
THE REST (OR, BUT…)
Thompson was one of the league leaders in kick return average but doesn’t return punts and doesn’t offer much offensively. Josh Bellamy was a special teams stud but a bad receiver. He’s big and athletic, but raw. Cameron Meredith was a college quarterback with excellent size and physical skills but he’s got a long way to go as a receiver. Receivers coach Mike Groh is considered to be a good coach and did a nice job preparing his players this year but it will be interesting to see how much he can develop Bellamy and Meredith.
…this should be a position of strength.
While the injuries hurt the team in 2015, they should help them in 2016 as players like Wilson, Mariani, Bellamy and Meredith got experience against good defenses. The Bears won’t be able to keep all of them, but as long as they keep Jeffery, they won’t need to invest a lot of money or a high draft pick in the position.
Tagged: Alshon Jeffery, Cameron Meredith, Deonte Thompson, Eddie Royal, Josh Bellamy, Kevin White, Marc Mariani, Marquess Wilson
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The Cross-Eyed Pianist
Courses for Pianists
London Meetup Piano Group
The Prodigal Pianist
By The Cross-Eyed Pianist | December 17, 2019
The adult ‘returner’ pianist
I’m a returner pianist – and maybe, if you’re reading this article, you are too and therefore what follows will chime with you. Or perhaps you are thinking of taking up the piano again after a long absence (as I did), in which case you should definitely read on…..
I played at a piano club recently and during the coffee break someone asked me if I was “a professional pianist”. This gave me a momentary glow of pride – evidently I had “made an impression” – and I know that many amateurs dream of reaching the dizzy heights of ‘professional standard’ in their playing. It’s one of the things that keeps us motivated to practice; alone with that box of wood and wires we dream of playing to a full house to the Wigmore or Carnegie Hall.
So I replied that no, I was an amateur pianist, an adult ‘returner’ and that I had given up the piano at the age of nineteen, returning to it just shy of my fortieth birthday with an all-consuming passion for the instrument, those who play it and its vast and varied literature. (You can read more about my return to the piano at the end of this article.)
The world of the adult amateur pianist is a curious one – at once rich, vibrant and varied, but also obsessive, anxious and eccentric. But above all, it is inspiring, and in my encounters with other adult pianists, through my piano group and on piano courses, I come across myriad stories of triumph over adversity, personal tragedy and dogged determination, of unhappy childhood lessons abandoned only to rediscover the joy of the piano later in life, of exam successes and failures, the frustrations and pleasures of practicing, and the fear and thrill of performing, but what runs, fugue-like, through all these accounts is a genuine and often profoundly deep passion for the piano.
When you tell people you’ve taken up the piano again they always ask, “Are you any good?” And I never know quite what to say. Some days when my spirit and fingers are in sympathy with each other, I think I make a reasonable sound. On other days, spirit and fingers aren’t on speaking terms and the result is fumbling, dismal, depressing.
Alan Rusbridger, journalist and amateur pianist
When I put out a call for contributions to this article via Twitter, I was deluged with responses, as varied, fascinating and moving as the literature of the instrument we play. What follows are just a few of the responses, but what they demonstrate is that, while there are some obvious common threads, our reasons for returning to and playing the piano are often deeply personal and hugely meaningful to us as individuals, and that our passion for the piano is all-consuming. Never forget that the word “amateur” derives from the Old French word meaning “lover of” from the Latin amator: all the amateur pianists I meet and know play the piano because they love it and care passionately about it. Our love drives our commitment to the instrument – amateur pianists are possibly the most dedicated practicers – and many of us are absorbed by a compelling need to get better, to progress, to master. It’s a lonely road to travel, which is why piano clubs and courses are so popular for the opportunity to meet others who are similarly driven and obsessed. Those of us who commit to the journey do so willingly; it’s an ongoing process, one which can provide immense satisfaction, stimulation and surprising creativity.
That is not to say that professional pianists don’t love the piano too – of course they do, otherwise they wouldn’t do it, but a number of concert pianists whom I’ve interviewed and know personally have expressed a certain frustration at the demands of the profession – producing programmes to order, the travelling, the expectations of audiences, promoters, agents etc, which can obscure the love for the piano. Because of this, professionals are often quite envious of the freedom amateur pianists have to indulge their passion, to play whatever repertoire they choose and to play purely for pleasure.
Now, back to those inspiring adult returners…..
My primary reason for returning was that both my parents had lived the last ten or twelve years of their lives with advancing dementia, as well as some second degree relatives. I thought the best way to really work my brain was to go back to playing music. The secondary reason was to help relieve stress which was something my piano teacher had told me I would need at some point in my life……For me, having started to suffer the lacunar strokes in my family history which have a type of dementia related to them, I keep hold on the fact that the part of the brain the works with music is usually the last to fail. I still feel that playing the piano is probably one of the best avenues to take to keep working the brain. Apart from that I simply love playing again. – Eleanor
It was the death of an uncle which prompted me to return to the piano. He was very musical, and after he died my other uncle asked me whether I would like his piano, a rather fine Steinway grand which had been in the family for ages. However, grand pianos are somewhat incompatible with the three bedroom semi in which I live, but it did remind me how much I’d enjoyed the piano. I was lucky enough to be left some money in his will, and with that I bought a Yamaha upright with silent system fitted. I wanted a proper acoustic, but I have young children so a silent system means I can practice at night after they are in bed. I have lessons once a fortnight and they are completely indispensable for my enjoyment
I studied music at university and did two years of a performance major but struggled with various chronic injuries and dropped out as a result (I had two operations and had seen many medical specialists in attempt to resolve these problems). I then “sold my soul” to capitalism and started a business, following which I continued along a corporate career. I had always dreamed of getting back into playing but my schedule was punishing and not at all conducive to playing. I started to play again and unfortunately ended up with RSI (tennis elbow) which swiftly ended my return to playing. Then a few years later I managed to extricate myself from the corporate world and…..I managed to start playing again and although I had some niggles from the RSI, was able to play around 0.5 – 1 hrs a few days a week. I also started going for lessons with [a teacher who] focussed very much on reducing tension…..and I realised how much of my injuries came down to poor technique and tension. I wish a greater emphasis had been placed on this when I was a music student because while [my teacher] helped me find a much more natural, comfortable way to play, it was already too late and my RSI flared up again to the point where a few minutes of playing would leave me in agony for days. It was devastating after so long of trying to be in a position to have the time to play that I wasn’t able to. A few years later (whilst consistently seeing medical specialists and trying various approaches) I managed to have a breakthrough in which I was able to slowly start playing again, a few minutes every second day and was able to gradually build up. This was a useful exercise in that I had to be more focussed on practising effectively given the limited time available. Despite being told by numerous doctors that I wouldn’t play again, I’m now able to play for up to an hour on some days. This has been sufficient to learn some new repertoire and to perform in some amateur meet-up groups which has really been a wonderful experience. In fact, once I was able to let go of the inner critic (as a former music student, the inner critic remains highly developed even though one’s technical ability wanes without practice!), I couldn’t believe how much I enjoyed playing. It would have never have occurred to me all those years ago when I dropped out of university that I’d be able to derive so much enjoyment out of playing as an amateur.
– Ryan
I originally started piano lessons aged 13, of my own volition; I’d had one of those 80s electronic keyboards that were all the rage back then, and wanted to progress to something more substantial. My progress was very slow, however, and ultimately not very fulfilling. I managed to pass my Grade 1 but found the exam experience stressful. I think a lot of it had to do with the prescriptive way children are typically taught: everything was just scales, sight reading and set pieces that weren’t especially fun or engaging to play. Nearly twenty years later, I was in a piano bar on holiday, and the pianist was playing modern music set to piano. It was beautiful, and I felt a sense of regret that I had abandoned such a beautiful instrument. On returning home, I did a spot of research and found that digital pianos had come on a long way in the intervening years and were now touch-sensitive with weighted keys and even a sustain pedal. I took the plunge, ordered a decent model (the Yamaha P115) and signed up for lessons with a local teacher. It’s been a wonderful decision, and I have fallen in love with playing. It’s still small steps, but I practice regularly and have actively witnessed improvement in my own playing.
– Colin
I discovered classical music as a teen (Bach) and started taking lessons. I wanted to be a composer, and eventually became a composition major at a local university. Having started late, and not having received family support and good advice from those who did support me, I let my insecurities defeat me, and I ended up getting a degree in English. Decades later, we inherited a spinet from a relative, and I found my passion once again. I finally have a good teacher, and am making progress toward being the pianist I wanted to be.
– Bob
And what of me, the author and creator of this blog who through my activities tries to support and advocate for amateur pianists? Discouraged from applying to music college with the suggestion that I wasn’t “good enough”, I threw myself into other studies (Medieval English), followed a non-musical career path for 10 years, while setting up home, getting married and starting a family. But in my late thirties, when my son was about eight, my mother bought me a digital piano and urged me to start playing again. So I dug out the music I had loved as a teenager – music by Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Debussy – and also some I had hated: Chopin’s Nocturnes. I fell in love with Chopin’s music; coming at it as an adult with a greater degree of life experience, I found it vivid, beautiful, passionate, poignant – and incredibly satisfying to play. I also returned to Schubert’s Impromptus and Moments Musicaux, music I’d first started playing (badly!) at the age of about 12 when my mother bought me an Edition Peters score of this music, having heard Alfred Brendel play the Impromptus in concert. Within a couple of years, I was teaching piano to the children of friends and acquaintainces I’d met via my son’s primary school, and in 2007, my husband bought me a proper acoustic piano. The instrument arrived, and I spent hours and hours playing it and learnt the first movement of Schubert’s final sonata – in a day. Within eighteen months I was having lessons again with a sympathetic teacher who improved my technique beyond recognition and built my confidence. When she suggested I start looking at Chopin’s Etudes and Ballades, I knew I had reached a significant point in my piano journey – I felt I was now a “real” pianist – and she supported my decision to take a professional performance diploma (in fact, I took two and passed both with Distinction, under her guidance). Meanwhile, I had started writing this blog, initially to record my thoughts about the experience of playing the piano again, music I was enjoying at home and at concerts. (I had no notion of how successful and popular this blog would become in the subsequent 10 years.) Today I work in music: I’m not a professional pianist, but I am a ‘music professional’ (a writer, blogger, teacher and, more recently, a publicist working with musicians, and concerts manager), and everything I do now goes back to that decision to return to the piano at the age of 39. I’ve forged firm friendships through piano courses and clubs, and made significant connections with professional pianists, teachers, bloggers and others, and I know I would not given up this life for anything now.
My piano journey has been relatively straightforward compared to some of the accounts of other adult returner pianists, but we are all on our own personal path, some of us supported by teachers, others choosing to “go it alone”, but all driven by a common, consuming passion for the piano.
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Posted in General and tagged as adult amateur pianists, adult pianists, adult returner pianists, London Meetup Piano Group, piano clubs, Piano courses, returning pianists, returning to the piano. 4 Comments
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Five Concerts, Five Epic Concertos
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Meet the Artist – Alessandro Tampieri, violinist
Visions – Cyril Scott Piano Works | Nino Gvetadze, piano
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Frances Wilson
Practising the Piano
Susan Tomes Pianist and Writer
Thoroughly Good
1901 Arts Club
St John's Smith Square
PIANO RESOURCES
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IMSLP/Petrucci Music Library
Piano Lessons London at the Sokol Piano Academy
I made a #mixtape of #piano music by living #female #composers for @donne_uk Women in Music http://donne365.blogspot.com/2020/01/mixtape-2-curated-by-frances-wilson.html
The pianist’s cat #burmesecat #catsofinstagram #lilacburmesecat #bechsteinpiano #Portland #Dorset
“I have been painting forests for many years now. The tree is our refuge as it shelters us from the rain and the strong rays of the sun. What intrigued me, is that we know so little about trees” #interview with #French #artist France Mitrofanoff by @karineh93 #art #artists #contemporaryart #ArtMuseLondon https://artmuselondon.com/2020/01/09/interview-with-artist-france-mitrofanoff/
“success is having the creative freedom to express yourself and play the music you love the most” #meettheartist #interview with @lizabecmusic #musician #Innervate @7starconcerts https://meettheartist.online/2020/01/06/liza-bec-alternative-multi-instrumentalist/ Liza appears with @spiraldial @bullsheadsw13 on 14 January #gigs #london #Barnes #JazzRoom
In her new recording of Cyril Scott’s piano music, Nino Gvetadze hopes to give the listener a glimpse into his musical imagination, which produced music which Debussy described as “an intoxication for the ear”. https://crosseyedpianist.com/2020/01/06/visions-cyril-scott-piano-works-nino-gvetadze-piano/ #piano #music #CD #review #CyrilScott #composer
Conductor, artistic director of Hertfordshire Festival of Music, producer @tomhammondmusic in conversation with @thoroughly_good https://audioboom.com/posts/7470132-conductor-tom-hammond-discusses-the-music-of-sibelius #podcast #interview #sibelius #conducting #concerts #classicalmusic
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« Hillary Clinton: Rogue on China?
Fox News: On Notice!!!!! »
Score Card: One Up/One Down **Updated**
February 8, 2010 by still4hill
***Last UPDATE ***
She dropped the challenge.
**Update** According to Reuters, Tymoshenko very much intends to contest this election result. Ukraine’s Tymoshenko girds to contest result. Meanwhile, VOA News reports New Ukrainian Leader Faces Weak Public Support. You have to wonder how fair this election was. How can he have been elected with “weak public support?” So the Homegirls say, “Go Yulyia! Go after him!”
Yuliya Tymoshenko is hanging tough in the Ukrainian election even while Foreign Policy Morning Brief hands off the victory to her opponent Viktor Yanukovych.
Nonetheless, while this may mean a loss of a woman leader on the global stage, the victory of Laura Chinchilla, elected the first woman president of Costa Rica, replacing Oscar Arias, serves to boost, perhaps, the spirits of those dismayed by Tymoshenko’s probable defeat.
I am not really one for keeping score cards. I do not find that there is necessarily justice in who gets to wear the title first. The first woman president was Isabel Peron in Argentina who acceded to the presidency from her office of Vice President upon the death of her husband, President Juan Peron. Isabel, in fact, was a devoted follower of Peron’s second wife, Evita, and was conscious that the title she held as Vice President was one Evita wanted and should have had, and that if anyone should have been the first woman president of Argentina, it should have been Evita.
So the international drama of women rising to national office in various countries continues even while Sarah Palin teases the Tea Partiers about maybe running in 2012 unless Barack Obama “plays the war card” as she put it, and goes to war against Iran, which would, in her opinion, salvage his approval ratings. Excuse me? WHAT is she saying? That declaring war is a political move? Taken to garner votes?
Well, I know that Hillary was hawkish on Iran during the 2008 campaign, and I cannot really say that her statements were not for political advantage, but saying what YOU would do, given the authority, in a hypothetical situation differs from labeling a hypothetical future move on the part of someone else. Palin has NOT said what SHE would do. She is predicting what Obama MIGHT do which is very different from Hillary Clinton’s 2007-2008 statements. If I remember correctly, Hillary refused to predict what others might do stating that she could only answer for what SHE would try to do.
So why am I here today in the wake of two elections on two different sides of the globe and a splash by Palin that some have dubbed “spectacular?” Well, as we enter the second week of Black History Month and are reminded of Martin Luther King’s admonition to judge men not by the color of their skin but by the content of their character, and in the run-up to Women’s History Month, for which this blog has received year-long traffic at this post from last March about the Mirabal sisters of the Dominican Republic, I guess I am here to remind myself of King’s teaching. Neither should we judge a woman by her sexuality alone.
While I believe it is good that women are rising to these positions world-wide – good for humanity, I am reminded from Hillary Clinton’s celebratory remarks on Friday about another victory toward devolution of justice in Northern Ireland, an objective she has long worked toward, that another woman, Maggie Thatcher, did nothing reach out to the hunger strikers in Long Kesh Prison in 1981. Content of character – very important.
I know some of my friends and readers wish Hillary would espouse these principles more universally, and I see their point, but in contrast to what I have seen from Thatcher and expect from Palin (neither of whose images I will insert here), my faith is in my Homegirl. We can ALL do better, and that includes Hillary (and me and probably you, too), but we could also be doing so much worse! Glass half full. No score card.
(Congratulations to Saints fans and to the city of New Orleans and the State of Louisiana! You SO deserve this! Party on!)
Posted in Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Secretary of State, US Department of State | Tagged Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Laura Chinchilla, Margaret Thatcher, Sarah Palin, Secretary of State, State department, U.S. Department of State, Yuliya Tymoshenko | 3 Comments
on February 11, 2010 at 1:16 am | Reply littleisis
Good call, S4H. We should all be judged by the content of our characters. I also remain loyal to our Shero. As I discussed in today’s Dish at Liberal Rapture:
Despite disagreeing with her politically on the issues, I initially liked Sarah Palin because of her willingness to go against the Republican establishment and the oil companies and expose corruption in her state and party. But now it looks like she is being financed by someone (my Gods, just look at her recent double standard concerning Rush and the ‘R’ word), and frankly she doesn’t appear to have as good of a grasp on policy as she should. I would no sooner vote for her than I would vote for Obama, because they both seem to have the same level of experience and substance: none. Of course, she still isn’t half as bad as most of the other Republicans in this country and the fauxgressives still seem to be obsessed with her and believe her to be the epitome of all evil, a belief for which I will continue to mock them. But its also fairly obvious that Sarah is running in 2012. She looks like she’s taking the Nixon route: going as for to the right as possible to secure her base before she gets the nomination. After that she’ll return to the center, which is where she is known to have governed from in Alaska. If she does get the nomination, and Obama continues on his collision course and decides to run for reelection and Hillary doesn’t end up challenging him, it looks like we’ll be seeing President Palin in 2012.
Goddess willing Hillary does run in 2012. I think at this point she is the only liberal politician capable of beating Obama’s Chicago/Wall Street Machine. Cross your fingers!
on February 11, 2010 at 1:37 am | Reply still4hill
I’m with you! We need to be noisy and let her know we want her to run. Tons of groups on Facebook (where none other than Hillary told us in May we should organize – ya gotta love her!). Everybody check them out!
on June 17, 2015 at 12:47 pm | Reply karen for Clinton
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#GREENMETAL
A week ago, Greta Thunberg (the teenaged leader of the climate revolution, she needs no further presentation) gave a speech to the world leaders at the opening of the UN Climate Summit in New York. The speech, where she relentlessly scolded the world’s most powerful people for their lack of action facing the climate crisis, quickly became a classic and, along with Martin Luther King’s epoch-making speech, “I have a dream”, is placed among the most influential and important speeches in the history of modern humanity.Shortly thereafter, a music video was released on youtube where the Death Metal phenomenon G.T, also known as John Mollusk, the drummer of New York thrash metal band Suaka, converted the speech into a death metal song where he himself growls along with Greta. The clip went viral and has already been viewed over 4 million times.All the record company’s profits from the release will go straight to the environmental rights activist group Greenpeace. With the single release, Despotz Records launches a campaign under the hashtag #GREENMETAL where they urge the metal fans worldwide to mobilize and take part in the environmental movement together and to create history making the death metal song ’How Dare You’ enter the billboard top 10 charts!
Spotify: http://open.spotify.com/album/6rseGTT2Z2g2zrAExJuoZv
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/how-dare-you-single/1481843166
Bandcamp: https://gtofficial.bandcamp.com
Youtube: https://youtu.be/rbrdRcwZE6Q
Deezer/Amazon: https://orcd.co/howdareyou
“When I saw her speech, I was very impressed by her passion and outrage, and the words she chose just evoked the darkness of the metal music I love: Entombed, Gojira, At the Gates, Sepultura.” Said Meredith to the Rolling Stone magazine about making the song. He hopes people don’t think he’s trying to make fun of her with the video and that he agrees with her message. “My personal stance is that individuals need to do their part to strive to conserve and preserve our environment.” says G.TGreta herself approved the metal make-over of her speech by tweeting “I have moved on from this climate thing… From now on I will be doing death metal only !!”One action does not need to exclude the other, because now the track ’How Dare You’ is released as a single in collaboration with the Swedish independent hard rock label Despotz Records.”Greta says it better than neither we on this label nor any other adult so far has been able to say it, so one of the best things we can do is to use our platform for spreading her own words. We stand united with her in her quest and are grateful for a chance to contribute in any way!” says Despotz Records and ads “To be fair, Greta embodies rock music in its full meaning. She is uncompromising, tough as hell and doesn’t give a shit about what people think of her. She is not afraid to tell you about the scariest things imaginable without beautifying it a bit, and that is what metal is about.”
#gretathunberg#Fridaysforfuture
TOUR / CorrodedJanuary 14, 2020
SWEDEN ROCK / Per Wiberg & LykantropiJanuary 14, 2020
MANIFEST / Honungsvägen & Bröderna LindgrenJanuary 13, 2020
NEW SIGNING / CruachanJanuary 6, 2020
BEST HARD ROCK SONG / LykantropiJanuary 3, 2020
G.T / GRETA THUNBERG – TIME’S PERSON OF THE YEARDecember 12, 2019
MUSIC VIDEO / Martin RubashovDecember 12, 2019
SWEDEN ROCK / Satan Takes A HolidayDecember 11, 2019
BLACK FRIDAY/ Despotz RecordsNovember 29, 2019
SYNC / Lisa MiskovskyNovember 27, 2019
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Reblogged from Psychology Today
Those three big oranges
When we speak our native language we unconsciously follow certain rules. These rules are different in different languages. For example, if I want to talk about a particular collection of oranges, in English I say
In Thai, however, I’d say
Sôm jàj sǎam-lûuk nán
This is, literally, Oranges big three those, the reverse of the English order. Both English and Thai are pretty strict about this, and if you mess up the order, speakers will say that you’re not speaking the language fluently.
The rule of course doesn’t mention particular words, like big, or nán, it applies to whole classes of words. These classes are what linguists call grammatical categories: things like Noun, Verb, Adjective and less familiar ones like Numeral (for words like three or five) and Demonstrative (the term linguists use for words like this and those). Adjectives, Numerals and Demonstratives give extra information about the noun, and linguists call these words modifiers. The rules of grammar tell us the order of these whole classes of words.
Where do these rules come from? The common-sense answer is that we learn them: as English speakers grow up, they hear the people around them saying many, many sentences, and from these they generalize the English order; Thai speakers, hearing Thai sentences, generalize the opposite order (and English-Thai bilinguals get both). That’s why, if you present an English or Thai speaker with the wrong order, they’ll immediately detect something is wrong.
But this common-sense answer raises an interesting puzzle. The rules in English, from this kind of perspective, look roughly as follows:
The normal order of words that modify nouns is:
Demonstratives precede Numerals, Adjectives and Nouns
Numerals precede Adjectives and Nouns
Adjectives precede Nouns
There are 24 possible ways of ordering the four grammatical categories. If the order in different languages is simply a result of speakers learning their languages, then we’d expect to see all 24 possibilities available in languages around the world. Everything else being equal, we’d also expect the various orders to be pretty much equally common.
However, in the 1960s, the comparative linguist, Joseph Greenberg, looked at a bunch of unrelated languages and found that this simply wasn’t true. Some orders were much more common than others, and some orders simply didn’t seem to be present in languages at all. More recent work by Matthew Dryer looking at a much larger collection of languages has confirmed Greenberg’s original finding. It turns out that the English and Thai orders are by far the most common, while other orders—such as that of Kîîtharaka, a Bantu language spoken in Kenya, in which you say something like Oranges those three big—are much rarer. Dryer, like Greenberg, found that some orders just didn’t exist at all.article continues after advertisement
This is a surprise if speakers learn the order of words from what they hear (which they surely do), and each order is just as learnable as the others. It suggests either that some historical accident has led to certain orders being more frequent in the world’s languages, or, alternatively, that the human mind somehow prefers some orders to others, so these are the ones that, over time, end up being more common.
To test this, my colleagues Jennifer Culbertson, Alexander Martin, Klaus Abels, and I are running a series of experiments. In these, we teach people an invented language, with specially designed words that are easily learnable, whether the native language of our speakers is English, Thai or Kîîtharaka. We call this language Nápíjò and we tell the people who are doing the experiments that it’s a language spoken by about 10,000 people in rural South-East Asia. This is to make Nápíjò as real as possible to people.
Though we keep the words in Nápíjò the same for all our speakers, we mess around with the order of words. When we test English speakers, we teach them a version of Nápíjò with the Adjectives, Numerals and Demonstratives after the Noun (unlike in English); we also teach Nápíjò to Thai speakers, but we use a version with all these classes of words before the noun (unlike in Thai).
The idea behind the experiments is this: We teach speakers some Nápíjò, enough so they know the order of the noun and the modifiers, but not enough so they know how the modifiers are ordered with respect to each other. Then we have them guess the order of the modifiers. Their guesses tell us about what kind of grammar rule they are learning, and the pattern of the guesses should tell us something about whether that grammar rule is coming from their native language, or from something deeper in their minds.article continues after advertisement
In the experiments, we show speakers pictures of various situations–for example, a girl pointing to a collection of feathers—and we give our speakers the Nápíjò phrase that corresponds to these. The Nápíjò phrases that the participants hear for the diagrams below would correspond to red feather on the left and to that feather, on the right. We give the speakers enough examples so that they learn the pattern.
Red Feather and That Feather
Once the participants in the experiment have learned the pattern, we then test to see what they would do when you have two modifiers: for example, an Adjective and a Numeral, or a Demonstrative and an Adjective. We have of course, somewhat evilly, not given our speakers any clue as to what they should do. They have to guess!
Now, if the speakers are simply using the order of words from their native language, then they should be more likely to guess that the order of words in Nápíjò would follow it. That’s not, however, what English or Thai speakers do.
For a picture that shows a girl pointing at “those red feathers”, English speakers don’t guess that the Nápíjò order is Feathers those red, which would keep the English order of modifiers but is very rare cross-linguistically when the noun comes first. Instead, they are far more likely to go for Feathers red those, which is very common cross-linguistically (it is the Thai order), but is definitely not the English order of the modifiers.article continues after advertisement
Thai speakers, similarly, didn’t keep the Thai order of Adjective and Demonstrative. Instead, they were more likely to guess the English order, which, when the noun comes last (as it did for them), is very common across languages.
This suggests that the patterns of language types discovered by Greenberg, and put on an even firmer footing by Dryer, may not be the result of chance or of history. Rather the human mind may have an inherent bias towards certain word orders over others.
Our experiments are not quite finished, however. Both English and Thai speakers use patterns in their native language that are very common in languages generally. But what would happen if we tested speakers of one of the very rare patterns? Would even they still guess that Nápíjò uses an order which is more frequent in languages of the world?
The U.K. team with local team member Patrick Kanampiu
To find out, we’ve just arrived in Kenya, where we will do a final set of experiments. We’ll test speakers of Kîîtharaka (where the order is roughly Oranges those three big). We’ll test them on a version of Nápíjò where the noun comes last, unlike in their own language. If they behave just like Thai speakers, who we also taught a version of Nápíjò where the noun comes last, we will have really strong evidence that the linguistic nature of the human mind shapes the rules we learn. Who knows though, science is, after all, a risky business!
(Many thanks to my co-researchers, Jenny Culbertson (Principal Investigator), Alexander Martin and Klaus Abels for comments, and to the UK Economic and Social Research Council for funding this research)
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New Fall Titles Now On Sale!
BY SUBJECT – for children
Animals & Habitats
Cycles of Nature
John Denver & Kids
Nature Stories
BY SUBJECT – for adults
Available as Ebooks
Shop with confidence on the
Dawn Publications website.
If You Love Honey
Awards and Reviews
Click the images below to look inside!
Author: Martha Sullivan
Illustrator: Cathy Morrison
Retail Price: Paperback • $8.95 | Hardback • $16.95
See “Order Online” below for Web Special!
Honey is a sweet gift from nature—ALL of nature, actually. Honey is linked in a very real way to dandelions, earthworms, mushrooms, the old oak tree and even the blue jays squawking in its branches. Take another look at honey. If you love nature’s honey, you are sure to love nature too. How sweet it is! The author fell in love with bees as an amateur beekeeper, and then learned to appreciate flowering plants—even ones she once considered weeds ? as an important nectar source. And then she realized how the plants were connected to insects and soil. A simple but accurate diagram in the back matter explains how bees make honey and also pollinate plants, as well as the role of beneficial insects and decomposers. Also presented are activities and a recipe for children.Educators: download free activities based on this book on our activities page.
Ages: 4 to 10
Format:32 pages – fully illustrated – 9 by 11
Paperback: ISBN 978-1-58469-534-9
Hardcover: ISBN 978-1-58469-533-2
Curriculum Components: Insects • Pollination • Interdependence
IBPA Benjamin Franklin Awards, 2016 Finalist
2015 Living Now Book gold Award
2015 Mom’s Choice Gold Award (Children’s Picture Book)
2015 USA Book News Award Finalist
Foreword Reviews’ 2015 INDIEFAB Book of the Year Award Finalist
1015 Nautilus Book Award (Gold)
CA Reading Association’s 2015 EUREKA! Children’s Book Awards
Purple Dragonfly Book Award – 1st Place
A cycle of logical syllogisms takes readers from the title stipulation through a series of conclusions that ends at the beginning. It’s hard to argue with the logic. “If you love honey, / Then you must love honey bees. // If you love honey bees, / It’s no wonder you love dandelions.” Each statement appears on a double-page spread accompanied by a related fact: bees must visit about 2 million flowers to produce a pound of honey, for instance. The chain of affection extends from dandelions to ladybugs to goldenrod to butterflies to clover to the soil to earthworms to mushrooms to oak trees to blue jays to blackberries and back to honeybees and honey. While some of the connections are a bit of a stretch, the short explanatory text generally explains the logic, and it is summarized in the backmatter. Morrison’s illustrations are crisp if a bit on the stiff side, and they include many details not mentioned in the text, such as a family of bears on a honey raid fleeing angry guard bees and a whole host of insects, amphibians, and other fauna that inhabit this bucolic environment. The beekeeper is assisted by an African-American child, who shares a picnic with her Caucasian friend, who provides the berries. Copious backmatter provides further information on pollination, honeybees and other beneficial insects, and flowers and seed spreaders, as well as activities and Web resources. A neat look at connections many children can see in action. (Informational picture book. 5-8)
–Kirkus Reviews – Vicky Smith (June 2015)
The rhythm of the book “If you love _____, then you’ll love____,” makes this book a quick read despite the fact that the pages are packed with interesting tidbits of biodiversity and ecology. The structure of sing-song repetition propels that action forward. The book comes full circle, mimicking the cyclical nature of life by beginning and ending with bees, delving into dirt, worms, and mushrooms along the way. The realistic expressions on the animals’ faces draw the reader into the tiniest facets of the web of life, and make learning the connections easy and fun. The book ends with pictures of children on a picnic in the woods, and places the reader squarely in the middle of the action of the book.
–Skipping Stones Multicultural Literary Magazine – Michelle Barnes (Summer 2016)
Rather than approaching one concept in isolation, this new book shows the reader how everything affects or is affected by other things and demonstrates the delicate balance of our planet. Honey is made by honey bees, who gather nectar from dandelions. Dandelions are protected by ladybugs, who also love goldenrod. Goldenrod attracts butterflies, who also love clover. Clover needs rich soil, provided in part by earthworms. Mushrooms help speed up the earthworm’s work. Mushrooms work in tandem with oak trees, whose leaves hide many creatures and whose acorns feed are planted by birds. Birds also eat berries, which are pollinated by the honey bees, bringing the story full circle.
Throughout the story, master illustrator Morrison sets the scene and shows that the items discussed in the text are even less isolated than imagined. Bears examine the honey repository. A farm and other flowers are near the dandelions. Sheep, protected by a dog, graze near the goldenrod. Rabbits much on the clover. Tree roots, baby bunnies, a lizard, and a toad appear in the rich soil. People work and play.
Second graders can learn so much about the nature in their backyards from this book. Literacy skills will be enhanced by the wonderful visuals and scientific concepts. Read aloud in a classroom, students can spot the details and discuss the connections.
–Grade Reading – Sue Poduska (July 6, 2015)
If You Love Honey is vibrant and engaging with warm, lifelike, and impressively accurate art
that remembers the young audience the book is written for. Parallel sections of text throughout
the book effectively lead the reader through the pages. The theme text is repetitive and playful,
while the more instructional sections are informative but still easily accessible and interesting
to a young audience.
–Randy L. Seagraves, Curriculum Coordinator, International Junior
Master Gardener Program (March 20, 2015)
If You Love Honey takes its readers on a beautifully illustrated adventure through the
intertwining natural world around us. It highlights the work of our bees, linking golden honey
on bread to the earthworms crawling underground, and everything in-between. Children
will be fascinated by this tale.
–Sarah Red-Laird, Bee Girl, Executive Director, American
Beekeeping Federation, Kids and Bees Program Director (March 30, 2015)
I’m a big fan of Dawn Publications picture books! IF YOU LOVE HONEY: NATURE’S CONNECTIONS by Martha Sullivan and illustrated by Cathy Morrison epitomizes what I love about their books — they are educational and fun. In IF YOU LOVE HONEY, readers learn how honey is connected to all sorts of things in nature.
IF YOU LOVE HONEY begins, “If you love honey, Then you must love honey bees.” It then explains how honey bees help make honey. The next page of the book says, “If you love honey bees, It’s no wonder you love dandelions.” There is a description of how honey bees use the nectar from dandelions to make their honey. The book continues like this, showing the ways that nature is interconnected, until it comes full circle back to honey!
I think IF YOU LOVE HONEY is adorable. The illustrations are beautiful and I love that each and every page of this book teaches children about the relationship of bees with the environment. In addition, there are pages at the back of the book which go into even more detail about the science of the story and some fun activity suggestions.
As is the case with all books by Dawn Publications, IF YOU LOVE HONEY is perfect for the classroom. There is even a link to additional activities that educators can use while teaching from this book.
–Julie P., Kid Konnections, Booking Mama (2/6/16)
This is one of those fun “one thing leads to another stories” that takes the reader through a chain of exciting information. “If you love honey, then you must love honey bees… If you love honey bees, it’s no wonder you love dandelions… If you love dandelions, you’d be crazy not to love ladybugs…” And the story goes on, but interspersed with intriguing information about each animal or plant depicted. From butterflies to earthworms to mushrooms and blackberry flowers, children learn about the delightful plants and animals that are found in a meadow. More details about bees are included at the end of the book, and colorful pictures by Cathy Morrison will have children spotting delightful treasures on each page.
–Susan Heim – Susan Heim on Parenting (10/12/15)
I’ve reviewed books from Dawn Publications (Facebook/Twitter/blog) before (see here). They publish some of the best nature books for kids in my opinion. Their two new titles for Fall are equally as informative, creative, and appealing as previous titles.
In If You Love Honey: Nature’s Connections , Martha Sullivan and illustrator Cathy Morrison teach kids about where honey comes from and how important pollination is to maintaining healthy ecosystems. Beginning with honey, they link it to bees, dandelions, ladybugs, goldenrod, butterflies, and many more plants and animals before returning back to honey. It’s a cycle where life is all dependent on other life to make the system work. It’s an important ecological lesson to teach kids. At the end of the book we see mom and her son picking blackberries – “If you love blackberries, You can’t help but love honey bees!” A outdoor picnic lunch follows with a plastic bear full of honey and a bowl of freshly-picked blackberries. Materials for classroom lessons follow: a section about how nectar is turned into honey, another about how pollination works, lots of information about bees, and resources for parents and teachers.
–Michael Barton – Exploring Portland’s Natural Areas (3/30/16)
Book Options Choose an optionHardbackPaperback Clear
If You Love Honey quantity
SKU: HONEY Categories: FR-Life Science-Animals, Our Books
Retail Price: Paperback • $8.95
Web Special discount available at checkout
Here, in luminous illustrations, is the life cycle of an oak-and how it supports life even after it is gone. An acorn drops from a great oak and grows. Animals nibble at it, a fire threatens it, but overcoming many challenges it eventually towers high in the forest, observing the changing human scene below.
Salmon Stream
Named a prestigious CBC/NSTA Outstanding Science Trade Book, this is a poetic yet accurate description of the life cycle of salmon. For kids, it's fun and eye-opening. For teachers, it's a valuable supplement to a unit on water, fish and ocean animals, and the life cycle. Fast-paced prose and brilliant illustrations follow the salmon from their form as eggs in a stream to the wide ocean, eventually making a hazardous journey home to their stream of origin.
Seashells by the Seashore
Retail Price: Paperback • $8.95 | Board Book • $7.95
Both classroom teachers and vacationing parents will find this little book to be a charmer. Counting from one to twelve (one to ten in the Board Book edition), Sue picks up shells-periwinkle, kitten's paw, scallop-and carefully adds them to her bucket as a gift for Grandma.
Mammals Who Morph
This remarkable evolution series, narrated by the Universe itself, concludes with this third book, the amazing story of mammals and humans. It picks up after From Lava to Life: The Universe Tells Our Earth Story with the extinction of dinosaurs, and tells how tiny mammals survived and morphed into lots of new Earthlings ? horses, whales and a kind of mammal with a powerful imagination ? you!
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October 9, 2019, 06:28 GMT-0500 League of Legends
Riot appears to censor “Hong Kong” during Worlds 2019 broadcasts
Is Riot trying to prevent a controversy?
Elena Endres
Photo via Riot Games
Riot Games seemingly censored the use of the phrase “Hong Kong” on stream during the League of Legends World Championship play-in stage.
A Reddit post from yesterday outlined the moments that have caused fans to speculate that Riot is censoring the use of “Hong Kong.” The primary evidence featured several casters correcting themselves while discussing the team, Hong Kong Attitude. When a caster began to say “Hong Kong,” they quickly changed their phrasing to “HKA” instead. Two of the instances cited can be found during play-in final results analysis and during a conversation between the casters. The clip below shows a third example.
Tencent censors Hong Kong
Clip of Riot Games Playing League of Legends – Clipped by Sagemoon
Outside of these clips, casters have said “Hong Kong” without switching their phrasing during the play-in streams. But fan suspicion won’t be easily dismissed considering multiple casters showed an issue with saying the phrase, which could suggest that Riot told them to refrain from doing so.
Additionally, spectators noticed a delay during the Hong Kong Attitude vs. Isurus Gaming series yesterday. After HKA won, an interview was expected to take place, but it didn’t air until much later in the stream. The delay had viewers puzzled and multiple users questioned when it would happen in the post-match thread on Reddit.
“They aren’t going to do it live, so they can just trash the interview if they don’t like what Hong Kong Attitude has to say,” one user said. Once the interview aired, many fans debated whether it was live or prerecorded to prevent HKA from speaking out about the Hong Kong protests.
While these instances could simply be a coincidence, there are reasons why Riot would want to censor broadcasts. Riot is owned by major Chinese company Tencent and has a huge player base—and, therefore, revenue base—in the country.
Just a few days ago, a Hearthstone player voiced his support for the movement in Hong Kong. Blizzard reacted quickly, banning the player and seizing his prize earnings. Riot may want to avoid any similar controversy by taking precautionary censorship measures.
The tension between American entertainment companies and China goes beyond gaming, over course. Tencent has already threatened action against the NBA due to remarks supporting Hong Kong. Tencent “would suspend live streaming for two NBA preseason games in China,” according to CNN.
A similar move in the gaming space would be a major problem for Riot, of course.
Update Oct. 9 8:30pm CT: Riot released a statement in regards to the allegations that it’s preventing casters from saying “Hong Kong” at Worlds 2019. “To make this as explicit as possible, we aren’t telling anyone to avoid saying Hong Kong,” Riot communications lead Ryan Rigney said. “We’d just rather the team be referred to by its full name. There’s been some confusion internally about this as well and we’re working to correct it.”
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Industrial heritage Draugen
A documentation project from the Norwegian Petroleum Museum
Economy & Society
Posted on October 1, 2018 October 10, 2018 by trude
Reorganising emergency responsibility
person by Trude Meland, Norwegian Petroleum Museum
Overall responsibility for emergency response on Draugen and the Norwegian continental shelf (NCS) between 62°N and 65°30’N lay with Kristiansund’s police commissioner from the mid-1980s. But no longer.
— Photo: Kurt Helge Røsand
© Norsk Oljemuseum
The government proposed a new police reform in 2013 which included merging the Nordmøre and Romsdal district with Sunnmøre, with the commissioner moving from Kristiansund to Ålesund.
These plans prompted outrage in Nordmøre and added fuel to the flames of an old local government dispute which has created and continues to maintain dissension in Møre og Romsdal county.
Offshore preparedness
The presence of both Shell and Statoil has helped to propel Kristiansund to the status of the oil centre for this part of Norway. Responsibility for emergency preparedness in the area of the NCS lying roughly between Ålesund to the south and Brønnøysund in the north lay in the town for some three decades.
This region includes such fields as Draugen, Ormen Lange, Åsgard and Njord, as well as the Tjeldbergodden and Nyhamna gas facilities on land. Nordmøre and Romsdal was one on four police districts along the coast responsible for strategic and operational leadership of any incidents arising on an offshore installation.
The others were Rogaland for the NCS south of the 62nd parallel, Helgeland between 65°30’N and 68°30’N and Troms above 68°30’N and the seas outside Svalbard’s territorial waters. Rogaland police district, embracing Stavanger, has also been required to provide assistance in investigating major oil-related incidents above 62°N.[REMOVE]Fotnote: National Police Directorate (2011): PBS 1. Politiets beredskapssystem, del 1. Retningslinjer for politiets beredskap, 103.
Police responsibility
The commissioner is responsible for the exercise of all police powers within their offshore area, and for the commitment of resources required to discharge duties on the NCS. They are also responsible for any post-response investigation.
In addition to preparing an updated plan for offshore emergency response, the offshore police district collaborates with the armed forces in exercises. It maintains contacts with the operator companies and sees to it that they also understand their functions during an actual incident.
The police are also charged with established reception facilities on land in the event of a possible evacuation following an offshore incident. They must keep in regular contact with the Petroleum Safety Authority Norway (PSA), and have investigating officers with expertise on matters relating to petroleum operations.
Finally, each offshore police district must have service personnel with specialist knowledge for taking over an installation after a possible action phase.
The number of Norwegian police districts was reduced from 27 to 12 on 1 January 2016 in what has been called the “close policing” reform.
After Nordmøre and Romsdal was merged with Sunnmøre, as noted above, the National Police Directorate (NPD) wanted the headquarters of the Møre and Romsdal district moved to Ålesund. That came as no surprise. This is the county’s largest town and lies midway between Bergen and Trondheim. The NPD also maintained that it also had the biggest recruitment base. But the question then was where responsibility for petroleum-related incidents off the Møre and Trøndelag coasts should lie.
The government wanted the NCS split between two police districts – south-west run from Stavanger and north from Tromsø – but failed to secure Storting (parliamentary) support.
Offshore responsibility was to continue to be divided between four police districts. But would this remain in Kristiansund or follow the police commissioner to Ålesund? Kristiansund and its hinterland mobilised vigorously to retain the police commissioner and responsibility for offshore emergency preparedness.
A number of consultation responses emphasised the extensive response collaboration built up in the town over 30 years, which made it easy to mobilise resources and expertise. In the event of accidents, moreover, Kristiansund had offshore expertise, a heliport and plans for taking care of possible injured personnel.
This interaction with the offshore industry’s emergency response resources was regarded as significant for the police’s ability to discharge its NCS duties.
In the event of an incident, the companies could quickly install their liaison officers at the police station. This physical presence was important for optimal coordination.
Although the police had and have specialised expertise on petroleum activities, they depend on supplementary knowledge from the industry when accidents occur offshore or at land plants.[REMOVE]Fotnote: Consultation: Norwegian Official Reports (NOU) 2013:9 Ett politi – rustet til å møte fremtidens utfordringer. Comments from Kristiansund local authority and KOM Vekst (Kristiansund and District Industrial Forum) of 3 October 2013; Nordmøre and Romsdal police district of 4 September 2013; Orkide (assembly of council chair and local authority chief administrators in Nordmøre) of 2 October 2013.
The fear was that moving the police commissioner and thereby offshore responsibility would mean a critical loss of special expertise, reduced efficiency, loss of time and increased costs.[REMOVE]Fotnote: Inderhaug, Erik (2016): “Hvordan skal politiet sikre denne?” Politiforum. https://www.politiforum.no/artikler/hvordan-skal-politiet-sikre-denne/386956 (published 27 January 2016, downloaded 9 January 2018).
A transfer to Ålesund might sunder strategic and operational leadership in the police from the other response teams for offshore operations.
Staying in Kristiansund would mean that, within a few minutes of an incident on Draugen, the police could be physically present in the second-line response at Norske Shell’s Råket facility. For their part, Ålesund’s supporters argued that emergency response would related in most cases to a serious event which required the police to establish a crisis team.
Where this was led from would be a secondary consideration. The specialist team in Kristiansund could deal with offshore emergency preparedness regardless of where the commissioner sat.
Norske Shell wanted the police in Kristiansund to retain responsibility for offshore preparedness, and responded to the consultation even though it was not formally invited to comment. The company stressed the good collaboration its emergency preparedness team had with the Nordmøre and Romsdal district’s offshore division, and the importance of maintaining this.
It also complained over the lack of specific details on how important considerations were to be handled if the headquarters were transferred to Ålesund.
“Our experience is that the understanding of oil sector processes, planning, emergency organisation and industry terminology enshrined in the operations centre, staff functions and operative response leadership has been positive for handling and investigating incidents on the NCS,” Shell stated.[REMOVE]Fotnote: Inderhaug, Erik (2016): “Hvordan skal politiet sikre denne?” Politiforum. https://www.politiforum.no/artikler/hvordan-skal-politiet-sikre-denne/386956 (published 27 January 2016, downloaded 9 January 2018).
“Such expertise is built up through good communication and joint training. We would have wished to see a clarification of how this is envisaged in the future.”
Jobs too
Kristiansund has called on a number of occasions for more government and public sector jobs, and this was highlighted in the consultation response from the Kristiansund and District Industrial Forum (KOM Vekst).
The latter noted that Ålesund and Molde had received 190 and 139 new central government and county council jobs respectively in 2009-13, while the figure for Kristiansund was one.[REMOVE]Fotnote: Consultation: NOU 2013:9 Ett politi – rustet til å møte fremtidens utfordringer – KOM Vekst (Kristiansund and District Industrial Forum) of 3 October 2013.
When the town lost out to Molde in the fight over the Nordmøre and Romsdal hospital, the future for many expertise-based jobs vanished from the region.
Against that backdrop, the issue of the police commissioner’s headquarters generated strong feelings in Nordmøre. This involved not only emergency preparedness, but also local employment.
The outcome was that the police commissioner post was transferred to Ålesund together with a substantial number of jobs. A government decision to locate the police pay and accounting centre, with 70 employees, to Kristiansund was therefore perceived as a form of compensation.
That was denied by justice minister Anders Anundsen, who claimed that the move formed part of a 2016 agreement with the Liberal Party on decentralisation of government employment.[REMOVE]Fotnote: Written question from Ingrid Heggø (Labour) to the minister of justice and emergency preparedness. Storting, document no 15:1539 (2015-2016), 9 September 2016.
It quickly became clear that the town would only be getting 50 new jobs, since another department located in Stavanger was taking over part of the police pay function.
To compensate for the “loss” of the 20 promised posts, an equal number of additional jobs were created at the Kristiansund tax office. According to the council, the extra employment more than compensated for the reduction in police posts.[REMOVE]Fotnote: Kristiansund – information publication from Kristiansund local authority. No 7, July 2017.
Published October 1, 2018 • Updated October 10, 2018
More about safety
Work Life: Safety
Offshore safety in Norway to 1990
The early years of oil operations on the Norwegian continental shelf (NCS), from 1965 to the late 1970s, have been described in retrospect as dominated by an American work culture.
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The drama never stops these Sims from dreaming
Dreams & Drama Neighborhood Rotation
D&D Reboot
Chapter List for Dreams & Drama: The Reboot
D&D Original
Chapter List for Dreams & Drama The First Edition
Sims Forum Story Inspirations
The Pen Pal Project
CeCe Writes: Other SimLit Stories
A Chicago-Style Girl in NYC Blog
Shower Them With Love [Round 10, Chapter 118, Ralston]
April 20, 2018 April 19, 2018 by Chicago-Style Girl, posted in Ralston
The Ralston-Kibo family didn’t let the difficult visit keep them down. Soon, they were back to their regularly scheduled program. They were working hard to get all three toddlers potty trained.
Believe it or not, potty training was one of the easy parts. Meal time could be more complicated.
Cristian and Kenya joked with Gavin because he warmed up chicken nuggets for Kai instead of sticking with a simpler option like a sandwich.
“But he loves chicken nuggets! I think it’s worth the couple of extra moments to give him his favorite,” retorted Gavin.
While Gavin was warming up chicken nuggets, Cristian served Wren with yogurt and Kenya served Jamari a sandwich. Jamari, wild child that he was, immediately pushed his sandwich to the floor.
Kenya was no pushover like most grandmothers could be. She immediately gave Jamari a talking to about it before giving him another sandwich.
Gavin was still at the microwave as Cristian made his was to the other side of the table. He gave Jamari a talking to as well. Precocious or not, he didn’t want to raise anymore misbehaving little boys.
Wren was already done with her yogurt by the time the chicken nuggets were done.
Kenya took Wren away for her bath and to get ready for bed while the boys were still eating. She stopped Gavin from coddling Jamari, who still had his bottom lip poked out. “He’ll be fine, let him be.”
Something about being this big happy family was getting to Gavin and Akira. They said they had no intention of marrying, but before long, they started having those thoughts that all Sims in happy relationships eventually have.
And the family finally found a solution to Kenya’s senseless jealousy of the maid. One of their downstairs neighbors had a nice man working for them. That family didn’t want a daily maid anymore. That coincided with the maid for the Ralston-Kibo family wanting to work less to spend more time with her family. After a quick interview, the families and maids agreed to do a swap. So far, it was working out much better for everyone.
Even with four adults to take care of the toddlers, they were still a handful. Wild Jamari would disrobe just because he felt like it. And even angelic Kai would fuss if he was left in his high chair too long.
The days, like today, when everyone was off for part of the day, were the easiest. When the toddlers were outnumbered, those hours went well. One such evening, Baby Branham came for a visit. He stopped in his tracks when he saw Wren. “Wow! put on some glasses and she looks like she could be the twin of my Luz. Your surrogate must’ve been beautiful!”
“Thanks…? You know, I think I had something to do with her looks too,” said Gavin.
“Heh, right. Yeah, She has your nose, I think. It’s.. cute…”
Akira barely stifled his chuckle at this conversation.
The family gathered in the living room to chat with Baby. He was enchanted by the kids, and was really good with them. He had lots of experience with red-headed toddlers, so that was no surprise.
Eventually Kenya and Akira left to put Wren and Jamari to bed. Baby sat down to talk with Gavin. “Where is Kai? I need to see what Akira looks like in mini form,” said Baby.
“Oh, you have no idea! Kai is the best! Well, not the best of our children. I have no favorites,” said Gavin. “But he’s so easy. He was probably playing with the dollhouse when you walked in, but I’m sure my grandfather is putting him to bed by now. That boy will play quietly for hours unless we interrupt him.”
“That’s sweet,” said Baby. “With Luz, it’s her picture books. She will read the same four books over and over again. I can’t imagine having to keep up with the tendencies of more than one though. How do you do it?”
“Honestly, I don’t even know, man,” said Gavin. “But surely you’re going to find out. You and Lesley aren’t going to make poor Luz grow up by herself are you?”
“First of all, we can’t afford an apartment this large, and you’ve seen Luz’s bedroom. How could we even fit another kid in there? Plus,” continued Baby, “it’s not like I chose to have Luz, though I love her with my whole heart. But if I being honest here, I’m sure I don’t want more kids with Lesley. Hell, I’m not even sure I want to stay–you know what, I shouldn’t be talking about this.”
“Oh no! You are not about to tell me some really messy something, and then stop. Talk to me Baby,” said Gavin. “What are friends for if not to share your secrets? You’ve been there for some really important moments in my life, let me do the same for you.”
Baby sighed then said, “I think I might be in love with someone else. It would be crazy to throw away my whole life for it though, right? I mean, I married Lesley for a reason, for Luz. And nothing about that has changed.”
“Wow,” said Gavin, “I wasn’t expecting to hear that… I obviously can’t tell you what to do. But being a father has changed my perspective. These days, all I know is that a child should be surrounded by love. They should have unconditional love from their caretakers, and they should be around adults who love each other. They need both pieces.”
“Damn, parenthood has made you wise,” laughed Baby. “I’m gonna think about that. I really can’t imagine being away from my little girl, but you’re right that I should be doing everything I can to surround her with love.”
“You really should,” said Gavin. “There are hard choices that have to be made in the name of doing what’s best for your children. I spent the last years of my youth living with my grandparents, I’m not sure if I ever told you that.
“No, I didn’t know that, I thought you moved with them after you graduated,” said Baby.
“Nope,” said Gavin, “and that wasn’t an easy choice for my mother to make. But she understood that living with her wasn’t the only or best option.”
“You’ve given me a lot to think about,” said Baby. “Thanks man.”
“Any time,” said Gavin. “That’s what friends are for.”
Tagged family time, friend visit, raising toddlers
Previous postFamily [Round 10, Chapter 117, Ralston]
Next postWelcome to Town, Rory [Round 10, Chapter 119, Ralston]
17 thoughts on “Shower Them With Love [Round 10, Chapter 118, Ralston]”
sourocha1 says:
Oh…things are going to get juicy! Baby is finally seeing that maybe he should look at things into some other perspective, and hopefuly he will end up with Robyn? Or not, we shall see how all of this goes…( Still excited, thought)
Chicago-Style Girl says:
Baby is my FAVE, lol. His story with Robyn is far from over, but… how do I put this… they’re on a slow burn, haha.
Jes2G says:
*puts bag of popcorn in micro*
skcaga6 says:
Jamari looks like Jessie! I think I found my favorite of the kids even though I love all three. 🙂
No playing favorites! Lol, just kidding, you can have a favorite. I’m looking forward to seeing bits of their mother come out as they grow up.
I kinda wanna PM you what the kids look like all grown up!
Go ahead. I can’t wait to see them all grown up. 🙂
audreyfld says:
Whoa….I’m wondering now how this is going to go down. Baby doesn’t know the one he loves is pregnant!
You’re right. He doesn’t know. All he knows is that he gave in to his desire, crossed a line he probably shouldn’t have.
Will Robyn tell him there’s a chance it’s not his baby? And for that matter, whose baby is it? I love spending time with each family, but I have to admit, my favorite is seeing characters like Baby who interact with almost every household.
CitizenErased14 says:
BABY! I loved seeing him 😍 And hearing him open up about his feelings… I’m really looking forward to seeing how he deals with this… can’t wait for a Robyn chapter! Ahhh. I love them together but it’s all so messy!
(PS: the toddlers were also so adorable in this. But I got distracted by Baby! 😂)
I swear this entire neighborhood rotation is just me writing chapters to pass time until Baby shows up again, lol.😉
But yeah, I’m really looking forward to getting to the Epstein household. I can’t wait to show what happens next.
cathytea says:
BABY! I’m happy to see him. I wonder what he’ll decide ?
I knew you’d love seeing him, lol. When we get over to the Epstein household, we’ll see how that situation plays out.
I would be worried, but Baby’s got this way of handling even the most challenging situations with his own brand of grace!
I love Baby so much. I was just talking to a Simlit friend today about giving him more life. I’d you’d ever be interested in adding him into one of your stories as an alternative universe/reincarnation thing, let me know!
Oh! There’s a thought! I’ll have to consider that–he’s so iconic in your story, I’m not sure I can imagine him in a different universe… Let me ponder it a bit!
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When you connect to the Internet through a device, the device is assigned an IP address. The IP address identifies the appliance and indicates its location. The number of devices connecting to the Internet is rapidly increasing. As a result, it is difficult to manage the request for the IP addresses with the existing version of Internet Protocol (IP), IPv4, which uses 32-bit addresses. By using IPv4, approximately 4.3 billion addresses can be assigned to the devices connecting to the Internet.
IPv6 addresses this issue by using 128-bit addresses and a hexadecimal label to identify the network interfaces of devices on an IPv6 network. Because IPv6 supports far more IP addresses than does IPv4, organizations and applications are gradually introducing support for the IPv6 protocol.
The IPv4 and IPv6 protocols are not interoperable, which makes the transition difficult. To accelerate the increasing IPv6 traffic from various applications supported on the Citrix SD-WAN WANOP appliance, you can enable the IPv6 Acceleration feature.
By default, IPv6 is disabled on the appliance. To enable IPv6 acceleration on a Citrix SD-WAN WANOP appliance, navigate to Configuration > Appliance Settings > Feature page and enable the IPv6 Acceleration feature.
Verify IPv6 connections
After enabling IPv6 acceleration on the appliance, the appliance starts accelerating traffic for the applications using IPv6 protocol. To make sure that the appliance is accelerating the IPv6 traffic, you can monitor such connections on the appliance.
To monitor the IPv6 connections, navigate to the Monitoring tab. The Connections page of the Monitoring tab display IPv6 protocols traffic related statistics:
Connections: The Connections page lists details of all the connections established with the appliance. This page consists of two tabs, Accelerated Connections and Unaccelerated Connections. The Accelerated Connections tab lists all connections that the appliance is accelerating. You can identify IPv6 traffic in this tab by referring to the Initiator and Responder column of each entry. If these columns contain hexadecimal IP address values, the entry represents an IPv6 connection, as shown in the following screen shot.
IPv6 connections that are not accelerated, are listed on the Unaccelerated Connections tab. If you want to accelerate these connections, you might need to troubleshoot and fine tune the application parameters on the appliance. As on the Accelerated Connections tab, you can identify the IPv6 connections on this tab by referring to the Initiator and Responder columns of each entry.
Top Applications: The Top Applications page provides granularity in the time frame that you can use to graphically represent the traffic throughput of various applications served by the Citrix SD-WAN appliance. By default, traffic throughput is displayed by the last minute. However, you can change the time frame by selecting Last Minute, Last Hour, Last Day, Last Week, or Last Month from the list available on the Title bar of the page. This page has three tabs, Top Applications Graphs, Since Last Restart, and Active Applications (Since Last Restart). The Top Applications Graphs tab contains the following statistics:
Total Application Link Throughput Percentage (Sent): This is a pie chart depicting the percentage of traffic that the appliance has sent to each application. If the appliance has sent a significant percentage of traffic for an application using IPv6 protocol, the application has its percentage of traffic depicted in this graph.
Total Application Link Throughput Percentage (Received): This is a pie chart depicting the percentage of traffic that the appliance has received from each application. If the appliance has received a significant percentage of traffic from an application using IPv6 protocol, the graph displays the percentage of traffic generated by the application.
Sent Rate: This is a stacked graph of series of data depicting the rate, in bits per second, at which the appliance has sent traffic to each application. If the appliance has sent data to an application using IPv6 protocol, a series depicting each application using IPv6 protocol is also plotted on this graph.
Received Rate: This is a stacked graph of series of data depicting the rate, in bits per second, at which the appliance has received traffic from each application. If the appliance has received data from an application using IPv6 protocol, a series depicting each application using IPv6 protocol is also plotted on this graph.
Top Applications table: This is a table of statistics for each application. The table lists all applications for which the appliance has served traffic, along with sent and received rates in bits per second, total bytes sent and received, percentage of the traffic for the application, and the rate at which the appliance has served traffic for the application. If the appliance has served traffic for an application using IPv6 protocol, the application is listed in this table, along with its statistics.
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The Since Last Restart tab contains statistics on the application traffic since the time you restarted the appliance. The tab contains the Total Application Link Throughput Percentage (Sent) and Total Application Link Throughput Percentage (Received) graphs, and Top Applications and Application Groups tables, depicting statistics similar to the Top Applications Graphs tab but with data since the appliance was restarted. The Active Applications (Since Last Restart) tab contains a table listing all active applications since the appliance was restarted. This table contains details about sent and receive rate, total bytes sent and received, and total packets sent and received for the applications.
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The Mammalian MAPK/ERK Pathway Exhibits Properties of a Negative Feedback Amplifier Academic research paper on "Biological sciences"
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Academic research paper on topic "The Mammalian MAPK/ERK Pathway Exhibits Properties of a Negative Feedback Amplifier"
COMPUTATIONAL BIOLOGY
The Mammalian MAPK/ERK Pathway Exhibits Properties of a Negative Feedback Amplifier
Oliver E. Sturm,1*+ Richard Orton,1** Joan Grindlay,2* Marc Birtwistle,3 Vladislav Vyshemirsky,1§ David Gilbert,111 Muffy Calder,1 Andrew Pitt,4 Boris Kholodenko,3 Walter Kolch351
(Published 21 December 2010; Volume 3 Issue 153 ra90)
Three-tiered kinase modules, such as the Raf-MEK (mitogen-activated or extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase kinase)-ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway, are widespread in biology, suggesting that this structure conveys evolutionarily advantageous properties. We show that the three-tiered kinase amplifier module combined with negative feedback recapitulates the design principles of a negative feedback amplifier (NFA), which is used in electronic circuits to confer robustness, output stabilization, and linearization of nonlinear signal amplification. We used mathematical modeling and experimental validation to demonstrate that the ERK pathway has properties of an NFA that (i) converts intrinsic switch-like activation kinetics into graded linear responses, (ii) conveys robustness to changes in rates of reactions within the NFA module, and (iii) stabilizes outputs in response to drug-induced perturbations of the amplifier. These properties determine biological behavior, including activation kinetics and the response to drugs.
Three-tiered kinase modules are a common motif in signal transduction pathways that enable precise cellular responses to extracellular cues. The prototypic mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades consist of a guanosine triphosphatase (GTPase)-regulated initial kinase [MAPK kinase kinase (MAPKKK)], which phosphorylates and activates an intermediate kinase (MAPKK) with narrow substrate specificity that phos-phorylates and activates the third kinase (MAPK), which is the main pathway effector and usually has multiple substrates (1). The biological reason for this design is unclear. Theoretical considerations suggest that it enables high signaling rates and amplification while providing stable off states (2). Negative feedback loops (NFLs) are predicted to add rich dynamic properties to signaling pathways, such as oscillations and switchlike responses (3). In metabolic pathways, NFLs stabilize end-product concentrations with respect to changes in consumption rates or substrate input supplies (4). Combining experimental and mathematical analysis, we show that the integration of a kinase cascade amplifier with NFLs generates emergent system-level properties that resemble the negative feedback amplifier (NFA) known from engineering, and that these NFA-like properties affect drug sensitivity and adaptation to perturbations of cells. We analyzed the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) MAPK pathway,
1Department of Computing Science, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK. 2Signalling and Proteomics Laboratory, Beatson Institute for Cancer Research, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK. 3Systems Biology Ireland, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland. 4Sir Henry Wellcome Functional Genomics Facility, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK. 5Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
*These authors contributed equally to this work.
tPresent address: Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38104, USA.
^Present address: Comparative Epidemiology Group, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK. §Present address: Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1XH, UK.
IIPresent address: School of Information Systems, Computing and Mathematics,
BrunelUniversity, Uxbridge, Middlesex UB8 3PH, UK.
^To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail: walter.kolch@ucd.ie
which regulates fundamental cellular processes including proliferation, survival, transformation, differentiation, and motility (5, 6). ERK signaling is initiated by cell surface receptors that activate Ras by recruiting guanine nucleotide exchange factors, such as SOS, which load Ras with guanosine triphosphate (GTP) (5, 7, 8). RasGTP binds MAPKKKs of the Raf family with high affinity, translocating them from the cytosol to the cell membrane where they become activated. Active Raf phosphorylates and activates mitogen-activated or extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase kinase (MEK), which in turn phosphorylates and activates ERK.
The NFA design and experimental approaches to examine NFA-like properties of the Raf-MEK-ERK pathway
In engineering, the NFA design (Fig. 1A) is widely used for controlling dynamic processes to reduce the effects of input noise, buffer perturbations in the amplifier, and smoothen output responses (9, 10). In a Raf-MEK-ERK biological circuit, the input signal coming from receptors proceeds through activated RasGTP to the amplifier, represented by the Raf-MEK-ERK module (Fig. 1B). The ratio of protein abundances of Raf-1, MEK, and ERK is about 1:3:6 in COS cells and 1:0.7:9 inNIH 3T3 fibroblasts (fig. S1), thus permitting signal amplification. A direct NFL from ERK to SOS, involving its phosphorylation and inhibition (11), inhibits Ras activation, and another NFL involves Raf-1 phosphorylation and inhibition (12) by activated ERK. A key property of an NFA is to convey robustness against perturbations to the amplifier (Fig. 1C), while still linearly transmitting input signals (Fig. 1D). To explore the NFA properties of the ERK pathway, we modeled it as either a simple amplifier ("Feedback Broken") or an NFA ("Feedback Intact"), using ordinary differential equations (Supplementary Materials, sections 1.1 and 1.2, and fig. S2). The Feedback Intact model starts with Ras as the input reflecting Raf stimulation by different growth factors and ends with ERK activity, as measured by ERK phosphorylation, as output. To test the predictions of this model experimentally, we used two strategies to eliminate the NFLs (Fig. 1E and fig. S3). Introduction of Raf6A, a Raf-1 mutant
where all six ERK phosphorylation sites are replaced by alanines (12), eliminated the feedback from ERK to Raf6A, but not the feedback to SOS or to endogenous Raf-1. Both feedback loops were eliminated if the pathway was activated by BXB-ER, which consists of the kinase domain of Raf-1 (BXB) fused to the hormone-binding domain of the estrogen receptor (ER) (13). The kinase activity of BXB-ER is directly activated by 4-hydroxy-tamoxifen (4HT), bypassing growth factor receptors and Ras proteins (13). BXB-ER lacks five of the six ERK phosphorylation sites, rendering it resistant to negative ERK feedback regulation. To ensure that the results were directly comparable, we calibrated (i) the mathematical model to provide equal input strengths through Raf-1 activated by RasGTP and BXB-ER activated by 4HT (Supplementary Materials, section 1.3), leaving the other parameters the same; and (ii) the biological system by titrating 4HT to adjust the kinase activity of BXB-ER to that of endogenous Raf-1 activated by epidermal growth factor (EGF)-stimulated RasGTP accumulation (Fig. 1F), and by expressing Raf6A at similar abundance as a wild-type Raf-1 control (fig. S4). Exposure of EGF- or 4HT-stimulated cells to the MEK inhibitor U0126 (14,15) had no effect on BXB-ER activity, but prolonged the activity of Raf-1.
Cells expressing Raf6A had slightly increased basal kinase activity, which was stimulated by EGF but, in contrast to Raf-1, was sustained even in the absence of U0126 (Fig. 1F). These results showed that the negative feedback limits the duration of Raf-1 activation and that our experimental tools are suitable to interrogate the NFA design.
Conversion of switch-like ERK activation into a graded response by the NFA-like design
In the ERK pathway, amplifier distortions arise naturally because MEK phosphorylates each of the two sites required for full ERK activity separately rather than processively during one binding event (16, 17). As a result, the single-phosphorylated, low-activity form of ERK is generated during the initial activation phase. When enough single-phosphorylated ERK has accumulated, every new phosphorylation event produces double-phosphorylated, fully activated ERK, which is apparent as a steep nonlinear increase in ERK activation kinetics (18). This hypersensitive mode of activation changes the internal gain of the amplifier in a nonlinear fashion, resulting in a switch-like response, which is predicted by our mathematical model (Fig. 2A), and was observed experimentally in Xenopus oocytes
Fig. 1. The ERK pathway resembles a negative feedback amplifier (NFA). (A) Blueprint of a standard amplifier and an NFA; u = input; y = output; A = amplification; F = feedback. (B) The ERK pathway resembles an NFA with an amplifier consisting of the three-tiered kinase module Raf-MEK-ERK and feedbacks emanating from ERK to SOS and Raf-1 activation. (C) Simulation of signal input-output relationships (u/y) in regard to changes in the amplifier (amplification strength, A) for a standard amplifier (blue line and blue y-axis labels) and an NFA (red line and red y-axis labels). (D) Simulation of signal input-output relationships in regard to changes in input (u) signals in a standard amplifier (blue line) and an NFA (red line).
(E) Strategies to break the NFA. GFR, growth factor receptor; GFR-I, GFR inhibitors; U0126, MEK inhibitor; solid red lines ending in diamonds represent negative feedback interactions; dashed red lines ending in diamonds indicate partial loss of negative feedback; blue molecules indicate introduced mutant or fusion proteins. (F) Kinase activities of Raf-1 and Raf-1 mutants. Flag-tagged Raf-1 and Raf6A or HA-tagged BXB-ER was expressed in COS1 cells. Serum-starved cells were treated with 10 mM U0126 before stimulation with EGF (50 ng/ml) or 0.1 mM 4HT. At the indicated time points, tagged Raf proteins were immunoprecipitated and assayed for kinase activity. Error bars represent SEM (n = 4).
(19). According to our mathematical NFA model simulations (Fig. 2A), the negative feedback should convert the switch-like, hypersensitive response into a more graded response by reducing the sensitivity of the reactions in the amplifier module to perturbations (Fig. 2A). To test this prediction theoretically, we performed sensitivity analysis of the mathematical model (Fig. 2B and Supplementary Materials, section 1.5). Sensitivity coefficients provide a quantitative measurement of how changes in individual reactions affect the output, here measured as the abundance of doubly phosphorylated ERK (ppERK). Elimination of the negative feedback increased the sensitivity coefficients of most reactions in the amplifier module, especially the reactions that activate and deactivate MEK. This increase in the sensitivity coefficients in the amplifier module
is explained by the mathematical model because the strength of the negative feedback is directly coupled to the gain of the amplifier, which corrects variations in the parameters in the amplifier module. Thus, the biological NFA allowed signal amplification but made the system resilient to amplifier perturbations.
The theoretical analysis of the NFA model predicted that ERK activation should be switch-like in the absence of negative feedback, but graded when it is present. To test this prediction experimentally, we analyzed ERK activation by flow cytometry, which measures ERK activity in individual cells of a population (Fig. 2C). In the Feedback Intact system, ERK activation increased in a graded manner proportional to the stimulation. However, in the Feedback Broken system, the response be-
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Fig. 2. The NFA smoothens signaling output. (A) Simulation of ppERK input-output response curves of the Feedback Intact and Feedback Broken models. The y axis represents total number of steady-state ppERK molecules; the x axis represents the respective initial input strengths of BXB-ER and RasGTP normalized to half-maximal response. (B) Sensitivity analysis of the Feedback Intact and Feedback Broken models. Sensitivity coefficients were calculated as described in the Supplementary Materials, section 1.5. The rate constants and the kinetic rate constant numbers are described in tables S1 and S2. The amplifier module is boxed red. (*) denotes MEK phosphorylation by Raf-1; (**) denotes MEK dephosphorylation. (C) NFA effects on ERK activation kinetics. NIH 3T3 cells stably expressing BXB-ER (31) were stimulated with increasing amounts of 4HT (0, 1, 3, 10, 30, and 100 nM) or fetal calf serum (FCS; 0, 1, 3, 10, 30, and 100%) for 20 min. ERK phosphorylation (ppERK) was determined by Western blotting and flow cytometry analysis. The data are representative of three independent experiments, in each of which 105 cells were analyzed. The schematic at the bottom illustrates the interpretation of the data. (D) Means of the ppERK fluorescence intensity distributions from (C) are plotted as a function of FCS or 4HT concentration. Triangles and squares represent the first and second peaks in the bimodal 4HT distribution, respectively. The color bar represents the percentage of cells in each category.
came switch-like, in which individual cells either responded or not, and the number of responding cells increased in proportion to the stimulation. Thus, the presence or absence of the NFLs can determine whether the response of the kinase module is graded or switch-like (Fig. 2D). This may explain divergent results about the activation kinetics of the ERK cascade in different biological systems. Although it has switch-like properties in Xenopus oocytes (19), subsequent studies in mammalian cells found that it responded in a graded fashion (20, 21). In Xenopus oocytes, the main mitotic activator of the ERK module is not Raf-1 but c-Mos (22). c-Mos lacks the Ras-binding domain and the ERK phospho-rylation sites, and hence is not subjected to negative feedback regulation by ERK, resulting in switch-like ERK activation dynamics. However, in mammalian cells in which Raf-1 activates MEK growth factor stimulation permits the NFA properties to buffer the intrinsic hypersensitivity of the amplifier and generate a graded response.
The NFA-like design and drug sensitivity
Another salient prediction of the NFA model is that ERK activation should be resilient to disturbances of the amplifier (Fig. 1C). To test this prediction, we used the MEK-selective inhibitor U0126 (14, 15). Computational simulations of U0126 dose-response curves predicted high sensitivity of ERK activation to MEK inhibition in the absence of NFLs (Feedback Broken) and resistance to MEK inhibition in the presence of the NFA (Feedback Intact) (Fig. 3A). To test this prediction, we treated cells having the negative feedback either intact or broken with varying amounts of the MEK-selective inhibitor U0126, stimulated them with either EGF (Feedback Intact) or 4HT (Feedback Broken), and then measured ERK activation (14, 15). As predicted by our model, in the Feedback Broken system, ERK activation was thoroughly inhibited by low concentrations of U0126, whereas in the Feedback Intact system, ERK activity persisted even in the presence of high U0126 concentrations (Fig. 3B). With the negative feedback intact, increasing U0126 concentrations weakened the negative feedback and allowed the amplifier gain to rise, thus causing increased resistance to U0126. As inhibitor concentrations were increased further, resistance persisted until U0126 concentrations were high enough to achieve complete inhibition.
We also observed enhanced sensitivity to low U0126 concentrations in the Feedback Intact system. This effect can be explained by three mechanisms, which can operate separately or jointly depending on conditions and inhibitor properties. First, low inhibitor concentrations are inherently associated with linear inhibition kinetics that precede the flattening out of the inhibition curve when rising inhibitor concentra-
tions push the system toward saturation. Linear inhibition ranges are generally larger for tightly bound inhibitors, such as U0126 (15). Second, the allosteric mode of inhibition by U0126 fixes MEK in a nonfunctional conformation and prevents MEK from interacting with ERK (23). Thus, U0126 not only prevents MEK from binding to ERK but also disrupts MEK-ERK complexes (reactions 27 to 35 in table S1), making inhibition more efficient. Third, if the concentration of ppERK is larger than the abundance of the upstream activator Raf-1 (fig. S1), the negative feedback becomes saturated. In this last scenario, a large reduction of ppERK would be required before Raf-1 inhibition eased and the feedback weakened to allow the increase of input to compensate for the inhibition.
The sensitivities to MEK inhibition that we observed in the computational simulations were obtained with the parameter values from the model by Schoeberl et al. (24). To test whether variations in the concentrations of Raf-1, MEK, and ERK affected the model, we used the concentrations determined in COS1 cells (fig. S1). The results showed that the effects of MEK inhibition in the Feedback Intact and Feedback Broken models (fig. S5) were similar to those in the simulations in Fig. 3B. In conjunction with the experiments shown in Fig. 2, C and D, where we enhanced the activity of the amplifier module, the inhibition experiments shown in Fig. 3, A and B, demonstrated that the NFA-like design of the ERK pathway conveyed resistance to perturbations of the amplifier caused by increasing concentrations of the MEK inhibitor. These results also showed that the biological circuit is more complex than the classic electronic circuit. One main difference is the temporal element of feedback regulation, which is immediate in the classic electronic NFA, but can be delayed or operating on different parallel time scales in the biological design. Because the effects of U0126 included parallel effects that can occur on different time scales, we tested a situation where U0126 was applied at the peak of ERK activation (fig. S6). In the Feedback Broken system, U0126 caused full ERK inhibition, whereas the Feedback Intact system exhibited dampened inhibition, resulting in a partial recovery to a new steady state of ERK activity above the basal activity. These results suggest that the NFA-like design of biological systems can dynamically buffer amplifier perturbations over time.
The model also predicts that inhibition of components that are not part of the biological NFA should be more effective than inhibition of components within the NFA (Fig. 3A). This prediction was corroborated by comparing the effects of 4557W, an EGF receptor (EGFR) inhibitor, with that of U0126 (Fig. 3B). Inhibition of EGFR produced an almost linear dose-response relationship both in the model and in the experimental system. This suggests that proteins embedded in NFA-like topologies make suboptimal drug targets, because the effects of their inhibition are dampened.
Fig. 3. The NFA-like property determines the responses of the ERK pathway to drugs that inhibit different components of the pathway. (A) Predicted sensitivity profiles to MEK (U0126) and EGFR (4775W) inhibitors. The y axis represents numbers of ppERK molecules. U0126 was modeled as an allosteric inhibitor, and concentrations are given as number of molecules. The effects of 4775W were modeled as a decrease in the number of RasGTP molecules. (B) Measured sensitivity profiles to U0126 and 4775W inhibitors. C0S1 cells stably expressing BXB-ER cells were treated with U0126 or 4775W for 1 hour and subsequently stimulated with EGF or 4HT for 20 min. The xaxis shows inhibitor concentrations, and the y axis arbitrary response units
based on quantitative LI-COR analysis of Western blot measurements of phosphorylated ERK (ppERK). Data represent the average of three experiments; error bars are SD.
We also tested the effects of the biological NFA with the "Feedback Partially Broken" system based on the Raf6A mutant (12) to partially break the negative feedback. Unfortunately, due to cytotoxic effects, we could not obtain cells expressing Raf6A alone in the absence of endogenous Raf-1. Therefore, we used COS1 cells stably expressing similar amounts of Raf-1 or Raf6A (fig. S4). These cells were stimulated with EGF and treated with increasing doses of U0126. In response to EGF stimulation, cells expressing Raf6A were more sensitive to MEK inhibition than were cells expressing Raf-1 (Fig. 4A, upper left). To examine the specificity of the NFA-like effect, we tested different growth factors, in particular platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), factors for which COS1 cells have receptors. PDGF-activated ERK showed an NFA-like response that was similar but smaller than the response to EGF, with cells expressing Raf6A showing decreased resistance to U0126 (Fig. 4A, upper right) but not to a PDGF receptor inhibitor (Fig. 4A, lower left), compared to cells expressing Raf-1. The smaller NFA-like effect seen with the inhibitor of the NFA component MEK can be explained by the lesser ability of PDGF to activate ERK (fig. S7), which weakens the influence of the NFA (Fig. 1A). Curiously, stimulation of ERK by IGF-1 did not exhibit the NFA-like property that partial loss of negative feedback made the MEK inhibitor more effective in reducing ERK activation (Fig. 4A, lower right). We found that IGF-1 selectively activated B-Raf and not Raf-1 (Fig. 4B). Although ERK can phosphorylate B-Raf and induce the disassembly of B-Raf-Raf-1 heterodimers at late time points, acute B-Raf activation is not inhibited by ERK (25) (fig.
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S8). Hence, IGF-1-induced ERK activation is not protected from U0126 inhibition by the NFA-like effect from ERK to Raf-1: This feedback may not exist because IGF-1 does not activate Raf-1, or if B-Raf signaling leading to ERK activation does result in ERK phosphoryl-ation of Raf-1, then this phosphorylation will have no consequences for IGF-1 responses. These results suggest that the NFA model applies to ERK activated downstream of Raf-1, but not B-Raf, which is consistent with the observation that cancer cells harboring mutated B-Raf are highly susceptible to MEK inhibitors (26, 27). The susceptibility of cancers with B-Raf mutations to MEK inhibitors may be due to the lack of negative feedback buffering of MEK inhibition, leading to effective inhibition of ERK activation. Results demonstrating a switching from B-Raf to Raf-1 as the main activator of the ERK pathway in melanoma (28) highlight the possibility that this switch could be accompanied by increased resistance to MEK inhibitors due to the acquisition of NFA-like properties. Our results predict that breaking the NFA is essential to ensure sensitivity to MEK inhibitors.
Therefore, we used our model to suggest scenarios for disabling the biological NFA. One possibility is to inhibit targets outside of the biological NFA (Figs. 3, A and B, and 4A). An alternative prediction of the mathematical NFA model was that Raf-1 inhibition should sensitize the pathway to MEK inhibition by weakening the NFA effect (Fig. 5A). This prediction seems counterintuitive because Raf-1 -MEK-ERK is a linear activation cascade. However, as predicted by the NFA model, the Raf-1 inhibitor GW5074 increased the sensitivity to MEK inhibition in the Feedback
Intact system (Fig. 5B, left). The cooperative effects of Raf and MEK inhibition were absent in the Feedback Broken system (Fig. 5B, right).
These results suggest that the ERK pathway has intrinsic design features like that of an NFA. Although the biological circuitry differs from the engineering blueprint by its greater complexity and nonlinearity, it conveys salient NFA properties including graded response characteristics, robustness to change, and output stabilization. These have important implications for the regulation of the pathway and the design of inhibitors. For instance, the presence of the negative feedback dictates whether ERK activation follows a graded or a switch-like pattern, as demonstrated by the differences in ERK activation responses when the negative feedback is broken (Fig. 2, B to D). Thus, the biological NFA provides a mechanism to generate analog or digital responses. Another implication is in the choice of targets for pharmacological intervention. Signal transduction pathways are important drug targets (29, 30). However, it has proven difficult to predict which components should be targeted, and the cornucopia of potential drug targets is contrasted by a paucity of objective criteria for how to choose
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Fig. 4. Partial breaking of the NFA-like properties by expression of the Raf6A mutant reveals Raf-1 as feedback target. (A) COS1 cells expressing Raf-1 or the Raf6A mutant were treated with the indicated inhibitors for 1 hour before stimulation with the indicated growth factors (50 ng/ml; 20 min). ERK activity was measured by LI-COR analysis of Western blot measurements of phosphorylated ERK (ppERK). Data represent the SD of at least three experiments. (B) Kinase activities of endogenous Raf-1 and B-Raf were measured by kinase assays of the enzymes immunoprecipitated from COS1 cells exposed to the indicated growth factors (50 ng/ml). Data represent the SD of at least three experiments.
Fig. 5. Cooperation between Raf and MEK inhibitors. (A) Model predictions of ppERK abundance at different combinations of Raf (GW5074) and MEK (U0126) inhibitors. The y and x axes show numbers of ppERK and U0126 molecules, respectively. (B) Serum-starved NIH 3T3 BXB-ER cells (31) were treated with
among them. Our results suggest that inhibition of a pathway by inhibiting targets embedded in an NFA-like topology is more difficult to achieve than the effect of inhibiting targets outside of the feedback loop, which provides a simple drug target selection guideline that is deductible from the network structure. The NFA-like properties also suggest that drugs that inhibit targets within the NFA circuit may be more effective if the NFLs are also blocked or inhibited, thus providing insight into potentially effective combination therapies. On a more speculative note, the results also suggest that biological evolution and engineered systems may converge to similar solutions when designing robustness.
MATERIALS AND METHODS Reagents and plasmids
Growth factors, drugs, and pharmacological inhibitors were from commercial sources and used according to suppliers' recommendations or as indicated. Antibodies that recognize phosphorylated ERK1 and 2 (ERK1/2) and antibodies that recognize ERK1/2 for immunoblotting were purchased from Cell Signaling. Antibodies that recognize C-Raf-1 and antibodies that recognize hemagglutinin (HA) for immunoprecipitation were purchased from BD Biosciences and Roche, respectively.
Stable BXB-ER NIH 3T3 cells were described (31), and COS1 cell lines stably expressing BXB-ER were generated similarly.
Dose-response curves
BXB-ER COS1, NIH 3T3 wild-type-Raf-1, or NIH 3T3 6A-Raf-1 cells were starved in serum-free medium overnight. The cells were preincubated with the indicated amounts of inhibitors U0126, 4557W or D-64406 for 1 hour and subsequently stimulated with growth factors (50 ng/ml) or 0.1 mM 4HT. The stimulation was stopped by washing the cells with ice-cold phosphate-buffered saline and immediate freezing at -80°C.
Immunoprecipitation, immunoblotting, and immunocomplex kinase assays
Cells were treated with growth factors with or without inhibitors as indicated and lysed in 25 mM Hepes (pH 7.4), 50 mM NaCl, 5 mM EDTA, and 1% Triton X-100 supplemented with protease inhibitor cocktail (Roche)
10 nM Raf-1 inhibitor (GW5074) and various amounts of the MEK inhibitor U0126 for 60 min and then stimulated with 10% FCS or 100 nM 4HT for 15 min. ppERK was measured by quantitative LI-COR analysis of Western blot measurements of phos-phorylated ERK. Error bars represent the SD from the mean of triplicate points.
and phosphatase inhibitors (2 mM NaF, 0.2 mM NaP2O5, 0.5 mM sodium orthovanadate, and 10 mM p-glycerophosphate). Immunoprecipitations, Western blotting, and kinase assays were performed as described (25). Western blots were developed and scanned with LI-COR technology (http:// www.licor.com/bio/index.jsp), which is a quantitative technique for staining Western blots based on infrared imaging.
Fluorescence-activated cell sorting
Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) was performed as described (32). Cells were serum-starved for 2 hours, treated as indicated, and stained with Alexa 488-conjugated antibodies against phosphorylated ERK (Invitrogen). Fluorescence profiles were measured on a FACSCalibur (BD Biosciences) with CellQuest Pro software. Distribution profiles were produced with FlowJo software (7.2.2). Data fitting was performed with Microsoft Excel and GraphPad Prism.
Models and modeling
The mathematical models were based on mass action models using ordinary differential equations of an adapted version of the core ERK pathway described in (24). Two computational models, Feedback Intact and Feedback Broken, were developed to investigate the NFA characteristics of the ERK pathway. The NFA-like model is the Feedback Intact model. Details are supplied in the Supplementary Materials, section 1.
www.sciencesignaling.org/cgi/content/full/3/153/ra90/DC1
Section 1. Models and modeling.
Section 2. Model parameters.
Section 3. SBML files of the models.
Fig. S1. Absolute concentrations of Raf-1, MEK, and ERK in COS1 and NIH 3T3 cells. Fig. S2. Schematic topologies of the models used.
Fig. S3. Schematic of Raf-1 and the Raf-1 mutants used to probe the NFA hypothesis. Fig. S4. Expression of Flag-tagged Raf-1 and the Raf6A mutant. Fig. S5. The effects of U0126 on steady-state ppERK abundance with protein concentrations of COS1 cells.
Fig. S6. The NFA effect also stabilizes non-steady-state dynamic systems.
Fig. S7. Dose-dependent ERK activation by different stimuli.
Fig. S8. B-Raf kinase activity is not feedback-inhibited by ERK.
Tables S1 to S3. Model parameters (Excel).
SBML files of the models (XML).
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33. Acknowledgments: We thank T. Gilbey for help with the FACS analysis and J. Kamburapola for help with the LI-COR gels. Funding: This work was supported by a DTI Beacons Project, Cancer Research UK, Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council Basic Technology research grant EP/E032745/1, Science Foundation Ireland grant no. 06/CE/B1129, and FP7 Marie Curie fellowship no. 236758 to M.B. Author contributions: O.E.S., J.G., and A.P. performed the experiments; R.O., V.V., and M.B. did the mathematical modeling; W.K., B.K., M.C., and D.G. designed the study; and W.K., R.O., and M.B. wrote the manuscript. Competing interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests.
Submitted 24 May 2010
Accepted 3 December 2010
Final Publication 21 December 2010
10.1126/scisignal.2001212
Citation: O. E. Sturm, R. Orton, J. Grindlay, M. Birtwistle, V. Vyshemirsky, D. Gilbert,
M. Calder, A. Pitt, B. Kholodenko, W. Kolch, The mammalian MAPK/ERK pathway
exhibits properties of a negative feedback amplifier. Sci. Signal. 3, ra90 (2010).
Oliver E. Sturm, Richard Orton, Joan Grindlay, Marc Birtwistle, Vladislav Vyshemirsky, David Gilbert, Muffy Calder, Andrew Pitt, Boris Kholodenko and Walter Kolch (December 21, 2010) Science Signaling 3 (153), ra90. [doi: 10.1126/scisignal.2001212]
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SP DIEGEM:
heads Superprestige
LOENHOUT:
Super Van Aert
wins 'modder'
Racing Preview Belgium Europe Cross Heartland Trofee Sven Nys Marianne Vos Women Nationals
By Cyclocrossrider December 30th, 2014
New Year Trofee tussle is also prelude to Nationals
The final race of 2014 in Loenhout also promises to be one of the most exciting as practically all the senior 'cross toppers are present to face the younger generation represented by Wout Van Aert and Mathieu Van der Poel. Will it be the new generation seeing out the old year in style today? Here's our preview to the New Year period.
THE remaining 'Kerstperiod' races may go a long way to deciding the winner of this season's bpost Bank Trofee, but they are also an important prelude to the National Championships on January 10-11th. Two Trofee races come up within three days now and after Loenhout today (December 30th) and Baal on New Year's Day there will be only one round remaining in Lille on February 7th.
The lead-up to the Nationals
Tuesday December 30th: bpost Bank Trofee, Loenhout (C1).
Thursday January 1st: bpost Bank Trofee, Baal (C1).
Friday January 2nd: Centrumcross, Surhuisterveen (C2).
Sunday January 4th: Soudal Classics, Leuven (C1).
January 10-11th: National championship weekend.
End of year showdown
Most of the big names will be present in Loenhout today for the last big showdown of 2014 (Lars van der Haar and Klaas Vantornout miss it through illness and perhaps Frenchman Francis Mourey is the only other major absentee). Wout Van Aert and Mathieu van der Poel also both race senior elite today - which should ensure a thrilling race and a perhaps present Van Aert with a dilemna.
World Under-23 champion Wout van Aert leads the senior elite series after his great ride in Essen on December 20th where he attacked from the off to take over leadership in the time-based series from Sven Nys. Loenhout and particularly Baal are going to be heavy courses and we expect to see Van Aert ride more defensively now that he has nearly a two-minute lead.
That, of course, leaves the way open for Mathieu van der Poel to be the 'aggressor' today as he was to such great effect on Sunday evening in Diegem where he won the Superprestige race (with a wheelie). With another good ride today Kevin Pauwels could also stay in contention in all three major series.
Kevin Pauwels (pictured in Baal 12 months ago) is on the verge of a stella season. He is still in with a chance of winning all three major series.
"Of course I will defend my lead," Van Aert told reporters after Essen. "It's the first time I've led an elite series, but if I lose it again there is nothing wrong with that." The Trofee series may not be a top priority for Van Aert with championships ahead, but it may be a welcome bonus.
One unexpected entrant is the Giant-Shimano road pro Ramon Sinkeldam who raced cyclocross as a junior and finished 18th in Surhuisterveen last season.
A chance for Nys?
The Trofee is the only one of the three major series that Sven Nys still has a realistic chance of winning and on these muddy courses – if he can get his head (and body) right – perhaps there is a still a chance that he can salvage something from his disappointing season. He will certainly be hoping to ride well on his own course in Baal on New Year's Day where he won convincingly twelve months ago (pictured above).
Overall Trofee standings (after 5 rounds)
1 Van Aert
2 Nys + 1:50
3 Pauwels +1:56
4 Meeusen +2:27
5 Van der Haar +5:46
Dutchwoman Sophie de Boer is the leader in the women's Trofee (by nearly three minutes) and so will be looking for mistake-free rides to keep Belgians Ellen Van Loy and Sanne Cant behind her in the series. World champion Marianne Vos (above) will be looking for her second win of the season though in Loenhout. Vos will miss Baal to race in Surhuisterveen on Friday - her final race before the Dutch national championship.
Michael Vanthourenhout leads the Under-23 series by 1 minute 50 seconds from Laurens Sweeck
Just as interesting this week will be how the profs fare against one another with the National Championships now on the horizon. The Belgian championship at Erpe-Mere is not a course that will suit defending champion Nys particularly and on current form Kevin Pauwels has to be the favourite, but Van Aert, it was confirmed before Christmas, will also race the elite professional championship.In the Dutch Championship under-23 Mathieu van der Poel will race senior elite and hope to take the national title from Lars van der Haar.
Loenhout and Baal race programme (CET): 10.00 Nieuwelingen; 11.00 Junior men; 12.00 Under-23 men; 13.45 Elite women; 15.00 Elite men.
2013 result: 1 Nys; 2 Peeters; 3 Albert.
Live race coverage expected on Sporza from around 14.45 (CET).
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First CF Patient Enrolled in PARI’s Compressor Access Program For Pseudomonas Aeruginosa Drug/Nebulizer Combo
by Patricia Silva, PhD
In cystic fibrosis, News.
PARI Respiratory Equipment, Inc. recently announced the enrollment of the first cystic fibrosis (CF) patient in its compressor access program called PARI PROVIDE, designed to support the launch of the Kitabis Pak. The product includes a combination of a drug and the device, which has already received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is expected to become the first co-packaging of generic tobramycin inhalation solution to use a PARI LC PLUS Nebulizer.
Since cystic fibrosis patients regularly need multiple inhaled medications for which they need to use a compressor to boost the nebulization and liquid medication, the company is aiming to provide a simpler solution, comprised of both the generic inhaled drug tobramycin and the nebulizer. The PARI PROVIDE program will ensure that users of the Kitabis Pak gain access to an air compressor that works with the product.
“Kitabis Pak makes taking nebulized tobramycin easier because it is one prescription for both the drug and nebulizer handset,” said the president of PARI U.S.A., Geoff Hunziker in a press release. “Distribution delays are eliminated because both the drug and nebulizer handset are dispensed together. PARI PROVIDE takes the program one step further by providing patients with the only FDA approved compressor to deliver tobramycin inhalation solution.”
[adrotate group=”1″]
In addition, the director of Medical Science at PARI Respiratory U.S.A., Lisa Cambridge, added that “it is important for patients to know that tobramycin inhalation solution is only approved for use with the nebulizer handset in Kitabis Pak and the compressor included in PARI PROVIDE.” Both the Kitabis Pak and the compressor access program PARI PROVIDE are exclusively marketed by PARI Respiratory.
Speaking about the current studies to evaluate the combined therapy, Cambridge said that “a lot of work went into the original clinical trials. The components of Kitabis Pak and PARI PROVIDE give patients with cystic fibrosis full access to what the FDA approved as an effective inhaled antibiotic therapy.” Kitabis Pak resembles the ones used as treatment for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and the price is similar to that of the generic tobramycin drug alone.
It was last December when the FDA granted final approval of the Company’s New Drug Application for the Kitabis Pak, given its indication for the treatment of respiratory infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa in adult and pediatric patients with CF. PARI Respiratory is dedicated to the development of aerosol delivery systems for various pulmonary conditions such as asthma, chronic lung disease, RSV infections, VAP, and HAP, in addition to CF.
Tagged Kitabis Pak, PARI LC PLUS Nebulizer, Pari Provide.
Previous: CF Drug Developer Savara Meets Primary Endpoint for Treating MRSA in Phase 2 Trial
Next:Enterprise Therapeutics Raises $2.4M To Fund Novel CF Therapy
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Road test: 2013 Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited
Road trip: 2013 Cadillac SRX
Gallery: 2014 Kia Rondo (Carens outside N.A.)
Can anything can hold back the Outback?
by Jim Leggett | February 26, 2013
The Subaru Outback crossover loves to play in the snow thanks to its symmetrical all-wheel drive.
Liz Leggett, Driving
The interior is a nice blend of textures and materials including wood trim in the 2013 Subaru Outback.
courtesy, Subaru
Liz Leggett, Special to The Gazette
The Subaru Outback is true to its stereotyping: a rugged, all-weather vehicle with oodles of traction thanks to its symmetrical all-wheel drive. Think of it as a comfortable pair of duck shoes, grippy rubber soles on the bottom, sturdy leather on top and warm flannel on the inside. Just slip them on and go outside no matter if it’s raining, snowing or mud season. You know that they will get you out to the woodpile and back with no drama, nice and dry. The 2013 Subaru Outback is exactly the same but it rides on four rubber soles (or, rather, rubber tires in this case).
While only the sporty BRZ Coupe in Subaru’s model lineup could be called sexy, the Outback has come a long way from its beginnings as a somewhat homely compact runabout way back in the mid-1990s. For many years it was appreciated more by the granola crowd in the parking lot of the LL Bean store than the townsfolk who didn’t heat their homes with wood. But something changed when the Outback grew from compact wagon to a mid-sized crossover SUV… it blossomed into a rather good-looking vehicle. The 2013 Subaru Outback features a restyled front end for a sportier appearance, including new headlights, grille, front bumper and fog lights.
The designers still like to play with two-tone colours on the Outback, and it adds a nice contrast, emphasizing the off-road capabilities of the AWD. The lower fascias front and rear plus the rocker panels get a black plastic trim that exaggerates the ground clearance appearance. Its 220 mm of ground clearance is higher than even many large SUVs and crossovers, while still maintaining a low step-in height.
Large foglights nestle into the lower corners of the front bumper adding a hint of Subaru’s rallying heritage. The oversized wheel arches continue this theme filled with 17-by-seven-inch aluminum alloy wheels in a six-spoke design, fitted with 225/60 R17 tires.
For 2013, new seat fabric feels more comfortable, while a new matte wood grain trim provides a sophisticated appearance on Limited Package models. Outback Limited models also offer a new electro-luminescent instrument cluster that has been integrated within the multi-information display, which also shows EyeSight functions when the car is so equipped.
A comfortable 10-way adjustable power seat awaits the driver while the front passenger gets four-way adjustments. Both seats are heated.
The dashboard is dominated by a large seven-inch LCD display as an option with the navigation system. Heating and ventilation controls are well laid out and easy to use.
Subaru continues to refine its boxer style engine design with its opposing cylinders because of the great advantage of a low centre of gravity. In 2013 the engineers have squeezed some more horsepower out of both engines offered, the 2.5-litre four-cylinder and the 3.6-litre six-cylinder. The smaller motor now generates 173 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque while the larger is rated at 256 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque.
Subaru continues to offer a six-speed manual gearbox with smaller engine in all but the 2.5i Limited model, though most buyers opt for the continuously variable transmission, which comes with paddle shifters behind the wheel to simulate manual mode if desired. Subaru’s CVT is one of the better examples on the market, unobtrusive under full-throttle acceleration but responsive enough to move the car briskly away from a stoplight.
Driving/utility:
Most Subaru vehicles are more fun in the snow or on curvy roads than straight-ahead driving on dry pavement, and luckily it was snowing heavily when I picked up my test car. The symmetrical AWD requires no attention from the driver and provided plenty of traction on the messy Montreal roads. The only obstacles were other non-Subaru drivers who seemed to have no clue how to operate their vehicles, SUVs included, under the blizzard conditions.
The Subaru Outback simply loves the cold and snow but is sporty enough to be agile around town in a crowded urban environment. The taller seating position gives good visibility for the driver yet the lower centre of gravity aids in the improved handling.
I will say that I missed having a big handbrake handle mounted high on the centre console like a rally car. It’s near impossible to have fun in a snow-covered parking lot with the new electronic parking brake.
2013 Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited
Price: $28,495 (2.5i base model), $38,495 (as tested plus taxes)
Engine: 3.6-litre boxer six-cylinder
Power: 256 hp, 247 foot-pounds of torque
Fuel economy: 11.8 litres per 100 km (city), 8.2 litres per 100 km (highway)
Transmission: six-speed AWD
Seats: five
Pros: sporty exterior styling, symmetrical AWD, boxer engine
Cons: fuel mileage
Cars and Car Design
Jim Leggett
L.L. Bean Inc.
Leggett , Jim
Outback Ltd.
Subaru Corporation
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First Drive: 2020 Subaru Outback
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4 Key crossover introductions from the New York Auto Show
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Small molecules from spiders used as chemical probes
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SLC6 Neurotransmitter Transporters: Structure, Function, and Regulation
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A fluorescence polarization based screening assay for identification of small molecule inhibitors of the PICK1 PDZ domain
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Molecular determinants for selective recognition of antidepressants in the human serotonin and norepinephrine transporters
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Bach, Anders & Strømgaard, Kristian, 8 Feb 2011, In : Synthesis. 2011, 5, p. 807-815
Biophysical characterization of the complex between human papillomavirus E6 protein and synapse-associated protein 97
Chi, C. N., Bach, Anders, Engström, Å., Strømgaard, Kristian, Lundström, P., Ferguson, N. & Jemth, P., 4 Feb 2011, In : Journal of Biological Chemistry. 286, 5, p. 3597-3606
Improving the stability of alpha-conotoxin AuIB through N-to-C cyclization: The effect of linker length on stability and activity at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors
Armishaw, C. J., Jensen, Anders A., Balle, L. D., Scott, K. C. M., Sørensen, L. & Strømgaard, Kristian, 2011, In : Antioxidants & Redox Signaling. 14, 1, p. 65-76
Solid-phase synthesis and biological evaluation of Joro spider toxin-4 from Nephila clavata
Barslund, A. F., Poulsen, Mette Homann, Bach, T. B., Lucas, S., Kristensen, Anders Skov & Strømgaard, Kristian, 2011, In : Journal of Natural Products. 74, 3, p. 483-486
Antidepressive lægemidler: nu i 3D
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Modified peptides as potent inhibitors of the PSD-95/NMDA receptor interaction
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Assessment of structurally diverse philanthotoxin analogues for inhibitory activity on ionotropic glutamate receptor subtypes: Discovery of nanomolar, nonselective, and use-dependent antagonists
Frølund, S., Bella, A., Kristensen, Anders Skov, Ziegler, H. L., Witt, M., Olsen, C. A., Strømgaard, Kristian, Franzyk, Henrik & Jaroszewski, J. W., 2010, In : Journal of Medicinal Chemistry. 53, 20, p. 7441-7451
Chemical biology
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Deciphering the kinetic binding mechanism of dimeric ligands using a potent plasma-stable dimeric inhibitor of postsynaptic density protein-95 as an example
Chi, C. N., Bach, Anders, Gottschalk, M., Kristensen, Anders Skov, Strømgaard, Kristian & Jemth, P., 2010, In : Journal of Biological Chemistry. 285, 36, p. 28252-28260
Identification of a small-molecule inhibitor of the PICK1 PDZ domain that inhibits hippocampal LTP and LTD
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Research output: Book/Report › Book › Education
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Gottschalk, M., Bach, Anders, Hansen, J. L., Krogsgaard-Larsen, Povl, Kristensen, Anders Skov & Strømgaard, Kristian, 2009, In : Neurochemical Research. 34, 10, p. 1729-1737
Location of the antidepressant binding site in the serotonin transporter: importance of SER-438 in recognition of citalopram and tricyclic antidepressants
Andersen, J., Taboureau, O., Hansen, K. B., Olsen, L., Egebjerg, J., Strømgaard, Kristian & Kristensen, Anders Skov, 2009, In : Journal of Biological Chemistry. 284, 15, p. 10276-10284
Rational design of a-conotoxin analogues targeting a7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors: Improved antagonistic activity by incorporation of proline derivatives
Armishaw, C., Jensen, Anders A., Balle, T., Clark, R. J., Harpsøe, Kasper, Skonberg, C., Liljefors, T. & Strømgaard, Kristian, 2009, In : Journal of Biological Chemistry. 284, 14, p. 9498-9512
Recent advances in the understanding of the interaction of antidepressant drugs with serotonin and norepinephrine transporters
Andersen, J., Kristensen, Anders Skov, Bang-Andersen, B. & Strømgaard, Kristian, 2009, In : Chemical Communications. 25, p. 3677-3692
Skræddersyede proteiner: uden naturens begrænsninger
Strømgaard, Kristian, Jensen, M. S. & Kristensen, Anders Skov, 2009, In : Lægemiddelforskning. p. 10-12
Synthesis and biological activity of argiotoxin 636 and analogues: selective antagonists for ionotropic glutamate receptors
Nelson, J. K., Frølund, S. U., Tikhonov, D. B., Kristensen, Anders Skov & Strømgaard, Kristian, 2009, In : Angewandte Chemie - International Edition. 48, 17, p. 3087-3091
Synthesis and biological activity of novel a-conotoxin analogues incorporating substituted proline derivatives
Armishaw, C., Jensen, Anders A., Skonberg, C., Liljefors, T. & Strømgaard, Kristian, 2009, Peptides for youth: The proceedings of the 20th American peptide symposium. Del Valle, S., Escher, E. & Lubell, W. D. (eds.). Springer, Vol. 611. p. 179-180 (Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, Vol. 611).
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L'Arche Audiovisual Collection, 54 results 54
Henri Nouwen fonds, 5 results 5
Mosteller, Sue, 59 results 59
Vanier, Jean, 3 results 3
de Miribel, Claire, 2 results 2
Mouncey, Perry, 2 results 2
Rancourt, Paul, 2 results 2
Risse, Jan, 1 results 1
Mosteller, Sue Item
Regional Board Day
#1. May 24, 1981. "Opening Session" by Sue Mosteller and Jan Risse.
October 24, 1987 and October 25, 1987. Talk 1 & start of talk 2
#1 - "I lead you to the desert and speak to your heart". October 28, 1991
1st tape. Intro - Sue Mosteller. Jean Vanier, "Where we are" (English)
Tape 1. Side A: Sue Mosteller, "A Sacred Time and Place." Side B: Sue Mosteller, "Into the Wilderness"
October 30, 1987. Final Sunday Sermon
#10 - "Let me wash your feet, trust me". November 2, 1991
May 29, 1993. Saturday p.m. Sue Mosteller, "La liberte a aimer" (French)
May 29, 1993. Saturday p.m. Sue Mosteller, "The freedom to love" (English)
May 30, 1993. Sunday a.m. Sue Mosteller, "Revenir chez soi" (French)
3. "Panel sur les choix de vie: .. vie religieuse. Marie. Celibataire. avec Sue Mosteller, Claire de Miribel, Perry Mouncey, et autres participants."
May 30, 1993. Sunday a.m. Sue Mosteller, "Coming home" (English)
5. Sue Mosteller. Translation by Paul Rancourt. "Les responsables de foyer portent la vision de L'Arche."
May 31, 1993. Monday a.m. Sue Mosteller (French)
October 26, 1987. End of talk 2 and talk 3
Tape 2. Sue Mosteller, "The God of the Covenant."
Holding the vision of L'Arche
Sue Mosteller. "Choose to be there." Friday morning, May 20, 1983.
#2 - "You are my beloved child". October 29, 1991
May 31, 1993. Monday a.m. Sue Mosteller, "Abide in me" (English)
8. Sue Mosteller, translation by Paul Rancourt, "L'Arche dans le monde."
October 26, 1987. Talk 4
Tape 3. Side A: Sue Mosteller, "As a Disciple before God." Side B: Sue Mosteller, "The Inner Journey - Vine & Branches"
3. "Panel on Choice of Lifestyle - Married, Celebacy, Religious with Sue Mosteller, Claire de Miribel, Perry Mouncey, and other persons"
#3 - "What do you want me to do for you?" October 29, 1991
Sue Mosteller. "Poverty and Simplicity." May 21, 1983.
Jean Vanier and Sue Mosteller. "Questions and answers."
Tape 4. Sue Mosteller, "The Inner Journey - Slavery to Freedom"
#4 - "Let Him go to the place of your true desire and listen". October 30, 1991
Sue Mosteller, #6
Jean Vanier and assistants (5 minutes). Sue Mosteller, "Caribbean." May 22, 1983.
#5 - "Live your brokenness as a food for the world". October 30, 1991
Tape 5. Sue Mosteller, "The Prodigal and Reconciliation"
May 27, 1993. Thursday p.m. Sue Mosteller, "Tu es Mon Bien Amie" (French)
May 27, 1993. Thursday p.m. Sue Mosteller, "You are my beloved" (English)
Tape 6. Side A: Sue Mosteller, "Life is Difficult." Side B: Sue Mosteller, "Called by Love"
Sue Mosteller. "Reflection" (10-15 minutes), then "Austria/India."
5. Sue Mosteller, "The Head of House Holding the Vision of L'Arche."
#6 - "Coming back home". October 31, 1991
#7 - "The father is your home". October 31, 1991
May 28, 1993. Friday a.m. Sue Mosteller, "Une terre sainte" (French)
Tape 7. Sue Mosteller, "Lord That I May See"
Sue Mosteller, "Australia-India and singing." May 20, 1983.
#8 - "I'll bring you from slavery to freedom". November 1, 1991
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How does the Board work?
Your Board of Directors steers the path of EACM toward the future. The board is made up of nine owners just like you, chosen by annual election. This is where the true power of co-op ownership comes into play. Unlike corporations, co-op board elections are democratically run — owners all have an equal vote. Board members serve staggered 3-year terms.
Why does the Board exist?
Board members represent member-owners to ensure that their needs are met and support the General Manager to maintain the vision and ends of the co-op.
What does the Board do?
CREATES CO-OP POLICIES The board’s primary role is to oversee the direction of the co-op through EACM’s general manager through the creation of board policies. EACM employees, as directed by the GM, manage day-to-day operations like stocking, cooking, ordering, marketing, product selection and administrative duties.
ENVISIONS & EVALUATES The board conducts its ongoing work at monthly board meetings. At these meetings the board monitors policy compliance, understands the co-op’s finances, plans activities to engage owners, discusses the future and evaluates their work.
See for yourself! The best way to understand what the board does at the co-op is to attend a board meeting and see for yourself. Meeting information is to the right.
Generally meetings are held from 6:30–8:30 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of each month at the East Aurora Middle School.
Member-owners are welcome to attend regularly scheduled board meetings. If you are interested in attending, please contact us at [email protected] in advance of the meeting to confirm time and place.
Meet the folks who govern the co-op on your behalf.
Andrew Layer
Board President | 2021
Mike Jason
Board Vice President | 2022
Bethany Markovich
Board Secretary | 2020
Tom Ruhland
Board Treasurer | 2022
Dale Morris
Board Member | 2021
Michael McClaren
Brian Russ
Andy Emborsky
Robert Slawinowski
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Mortgage companies participating in CBE initiative to finance low- to middle-income housing - Daily News Egypt
Business Mortgage companies participating in CBE initiative to finance low- to middle-income housing
Mortgage companies participating in CBE initiative to finance low- to middle-income housing
Mortgage finance companies operating in the domestic market started to prepare their participation in an initiative launched by the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) in 2014 to finance low- to middle-income housing. According to Ahmed Haggag, chairperson and managing director of Sakan Finance, said that the company completed the preparations for a new programme to …
Hossam Mounir February 12, 2017 Be the first to comment
Mortgage finance companies operating in the domestic market started to prepare their participation in an initiative launched by the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) in 2014 to finance low- to middle-income housing.
According to Ahmed Haggag, chairperson and managing director of Sakan Finance, said that the company completed the preparations for a new programme to fund youth housing, under the name of Egypt’s Youth Housing to participate in the initiative.
Haggag told Daily News Egypt that the company is currently waiting for a deal with the Egyptian Company for Mortgage Refinancing (EMRC) and the CBE to start accepting mortgage companies in the initiative.
The CBE will grant a portion of the value of the initiative to EMRC, while the company will inject liquidity into mortgage companies, in return directing them to finance the low-and middle-income housing.
In February 2014, the CBE launched its EGP 10bn initiative to provide long-term financing for low- and middle-income housing units with an interest rate of 7% for low-income citizens and 8% for the middle-income segment.
That initiative was amended in February 2016 to increase the number of beneficiaries and to add a new segment of low-income citizens at an interest rate of 5%, also adding a 10.5% interest programme for above middle-income citizens. It will also directly include mortgage companies in the initiative.
Head of the Mortgage Finance Fund (MFF), Mai Abdel Hamid, said that 14 banks gave EGP 5bn to finance 62,000 housing units as part of the initiative.
Earlier in 2016, the CBE allocated a first tranche, worth EGP 500m, to mortgage companies to participate in the initiative, but those companies are still waiting for the completion of certain procedures with the EMRC to begin their actual participation.
According to the initial agreement among the mortgage companies, the EMRC and CBE, each company that participates in the initiative will get customer files from the MFF to send them to the EMRC to examine, while mortgage companies will study these files. EMRC will grant financing for companies that send the customers’ files a week after they have been examined.
According to the Egyptian Financial Supervisory Authority (EFSA), there are 13 mortgage companies operating in the Egyptian market: Sakan, Al-Oula, EHFC, Egyptian Housing Finance Co., EMRC, Amlak, Al-Tayasor, Tamweel, Tamweel Emirates, Naeem, Al-Ahly, Arab African International, Al-Ahly United, and El-Masreyin.
Topics: Finance Housing low- to middle-income mortgage
Hossam Mounir
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February 12, 2017 Breaking News
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What is Bifacial PV?
Why is it Gaining Momentum & How Can EKO Help?
Bifacial Photovoltaic (PV) modules have nothing to do with face creams, skincare, or tanning; and everything to ...
Bifacial Photovoltaic (PV) modules have nothing to do with face creams, skincare, or tanning; and everything to do with the future of solar power generation.
‘Bifacial PV’ modules are a type of solar panel designed to receive solar irradiance front and rear, generating power on both sides and, in a nutshell, that allows for new possibilities in solar power; alternatives to the conventional south orientation and latitude-based tilt optimisation of traditional projects.
New possibilities mean greater flexibility, greater power generation potential, and a great deal more excitement.
Indeed, the 2 Vs. 1-way power generation potential of Bifacial PV modules is helping to drive growth in PV power generation projects, despite reduced government incentives globally, with the ‘International Technology Roadmap for Photovoltaics’ predicting that Bifacial PV modules will represent 35% of the PV module market share by 2028.
This all sounds great, and indeed, with Bifacial PV you would naturally expect increases in yield and performance, however, there are uncertainties as to how much actual yield can be expected at each location. Like traditional PV projects, modelled yields and returns are needed to determine project scope, design, and to help secure financing.
That being the case, researchers around the world are working to define just how much additional power these new modules will make at different sites, under different sky conditions, and in different string configurations.
Performance monitoring of PV sites has for years required continuous measurements of the solar broadband irradiance, with instruments deployed in Global Horizontal Irradiance (GHI) and Plane of Array (POA) irradiance orientations. Now the added parameter of upward or reflected irradiance (RI) must be monitored too.
Enter EKO Instruments!
EKO Albedometers like the MS-80 are capable of being mounted in a traditional albedo measurement configuration, one sensor measuring the downward irradiance and another measuring upward irradiance; both levelled horizontally with the surface. And EKO is unique in the PV industry for its complete product line of research-grade equipment.
With EKO, researchers can source the sensors they need to study the true performance of bifacial PV modules. Get in touch to find out more.
This article was featured in EKO/Environment. Click here OR on the 'Subscribe' button below to register for future EKO e-newsletters.
More information Close
Subscribe to EKO News
2020 is shaping up to be a big year in Japan with the upcoming Tokyo Olympics already driving major advances in technology, and workstyles across both industry ...
2020 is shaping up to be a big year in Japan with the upcoming Tokyo Olympics already driving major advances in technology, and workstyles across both industry and society.
EKO has always embraced a spirit of innovation in our work and the products and technologies we develop. Now, with the new year fast approaching, we want to make some major positive changes in how we communicate with you, our friends, partners and customers.
We’ve already re-launched our presence on social media with updates on Linked In, a new YouTube channel, and a new Japanese language Facebook page, and we are now pleased to announce a whole new approach to our email communications.
The old-style EKO Newsletter is ending and we are replacing it with two new publications:
EKO/Environment
A quarterly newsletter covering the latest EKO news and developments in SolarPV, and Environmental Instruments.
EKO/Analysis
A bi-annual newsletter highlighting new products and industry developments in Material Characterisation and Analysis.
If you would like to receive news from EKO please subscribe to one or both of the new publications.
Our goal is to only ever send you information that is relevant to you; news and stories that are accessible, informative, and most important of all --- interesting!
Click here OR on the 'Subscribe' button below to register for the new EKO e-newsletters.
Where’s EKO?
Finding EKO online used to be a bit of a challenge. We have a website of course, but we haven’t been the most ‘digitally’ minded; ironic for ...
Finding EKO online used to be a bit of a challenge. We have a website of course, but we haven’t been the most ‘digitally’ minded; ironic for a company that has been at the forefront of scientific instrumentation in meteorological and environmental analysis for over 90 years.
Though we still take pride in building direct relationships with our customers and partners, the fact is that our world has gotten a lot bigger over the years. In 2007, we established EKO Instruments USA Inc., and in April 2008 EKO Instruments Europe B.V. was launched in The Netherlands. Since then we’ve expanded into India, China, and South America too. EKO sensors are now deployed around the world; from solar parks near Tokyo to mountain tops 2,367m above sea level, and the cold extremes of the Antarctic.
Though we don’t anticipate too many enquiries from the South Pole, its clear that we need to make it easier to get in touch with EKO wherever you are.
That’s why we are pleased to announce the re-vamp and re-launch of EKO on social, across LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube; with a new look, regular updates, and all new content.
LinkedIn has become our main English language channel, with Facebook now available in Japanese. On YouTube meanwhile, you will soon see a whole slew of videos, from product demo’s, and interviews, to fun little tests, and insights into life at EKO.
Get in touch on social, and follow us to find out more about the latest developments in #SolarPV, #RenewableEnergy, and much much more.
HC-121 VIP Checker
HC-121 the preferred tool to check the performance of your VIP-Vacuum Insulation Panel. For 100% Quality Check, Fast Measurements, Yield Time and Money Savings. Greatly Improving ...
HC-121 the preferred tool to check the performance of your VIP-Vacuum Insulation Panel. For 100% Quality Check, Fast Measurements, Yield Time and Money Savings. Greatly Improving QA/QC Productivity and Metric.
>> Read the full article
Visit HC-121 product page
Our company mission inspired by the Sun
EKO Instruments, Tokyo, Japan, is well known for its advanced measurement instruments for solar energy industry. Irradiance instruments such as pyranometers, pyrheliometers and sun trackers can be ...
EKO Instruments, Tokyo, Japan, is well known for its advanced measurement instruments for solar energy industry. Irradiance instruments such as pyranometers, pyrheliometers and sun trackers can be found at solar monitoring stations on solar photovoltaic (PV) and concentrated solar power (CSP) plants around the world. EKO I-V curve tracers are widely used to monitor the electrical properties and the performance ratio of the PV modules on site and in the laboratories. Furthermore, different PV technologies are known to have different spectral responses, the EKO spectroradiometers have been a crucial tool for scientific research and advances on the outdoor PV performance evaluation. What is less known about EKO Instruments is its work in generation of solar energy. Since 2012, the company has built two corporately owned PV parks with a total nominal power of 2.7MW. These PV parks not only contributed to a great experimental platform for new developments, but also have a tremendous impact on their general ecological strategy.
Read the full article published in PES >>
Visit MS-80 product page
Nami software for MS-711 and RSB-01
Nami is the new software platform to extend the measurements functionality of the spectroradiometer (MS-711). With the Nami software and Rotating Shadowband Pyranometer (RSB-01) users will be ...
Nami is the new software platform to extend the measurements functionality of the spectroradiometer (MS-711). With the Nami software and Rotating Shadowband Pyranometer (RSB-01) users will be able to measure and visualize all three components (DNI, GHI, DHI) of spectral irradiance easily and simultaneously with Nami. Additional visualization capabilities include the ability to toggle between current or historical spectra quickly. While viewing the data, users can create scientific presentation quality images without moving their data to another piece of software. Reference spectra such as ASTM G173 have been loaded into the software for additional comparative tools. Explore the functionality of Nami and see how your global MS-711 spectroradiometer can be turned into a three-component measurenent system.
Read and downoload the full article >
Visit MS-711 product page
Visit RSB-01 product page
PV & Wind Expo 2020
Tokyo Big Sight, South / West Exhibition Building
Tokyo - Japan
The PV & Wind Expo in Tokyo is one of the largest B2B trade shows for the international photovoltaic, wind, and renewable energy industries. For companies, it is an excellent gateway into Japan and Asia, with a wide range of products, materials and production equipment on display.
Nanotech 2020
Tokyo Big Sight, West / South Halls & Conferences Tower
International nanotechnology exhibition and conference is the world's largest exhibition for nanotechnology. The event highlights cutting-edge advances in nanotechnology and related products from the global market. The exhibition also promotes innovations in green technologies and displays cutting-edge manufacturing that contributes to reduced environmental impact and enables the use of renewable energy sources.
World Future Energy Summit (WFES)
ADNEC
Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
The annual World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi is the leading global industry event and exhibition for future energy, cleantech and sustainability. Bringing together government and business leaders, 800 specialist exhibitors and 33,500 visitors from 170 countries, it showcases pioneering technologies and ground-breaking thinking in energy, energy efficiency, water, solar, waste and smart cities.
American Meteorological Society (AMS)
Boston Convention and Exhibition Center
Boston - United States
The AMS Annual Meeting, celebrating its 100th birthday in 2020, is the world’s largest yearly gathering for the weather, water, and climate community. It brings together great minds from a diverse set of scientific disciplines – helping attendees make career-long professional contact and life-long friends while learning from the very top people in the atmospheric sciences.
Solar Asset Management Europe
Booth EKO
Frankfurt - Germany
Europe's leading conference dedicated to the optimization of the operational phase of PV plants and portfolios. Meet with the EKO-Europe team during the 2 days event at Franfurt Germany. Learn more about the MS-80S, the most advanced Class A reference pyranometer for reliable PV site monitoring and research applications at the market.
>> MS-80S Pyranometer
Asiaflux 2019
EKO Booth
Takayama - Japan
AsiaFlux is a regional research network bringing together scientists from universities and institutions in Asia to study the exchanges of carbon dioxide, water vapor, and energy between terrestrial ecosystems and the atmosphere across daily to inter-annual time scales. This year the Asiaflux conferece and workshop take place in Takayama Japan. EKO will exhibit the latest reserach products and measurements solutions. We look forward to meet you during the event.
Get updated about our latest instruments and on-site applications
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Corporate World
All Rights Reserved. © 2018 bigsoftindia.comMobile Version
Categories: BusinessIndia
SBI introduces a new rule for savings accounts,short-term loans from tomorrow
From May 1, India’s largest bank State Bank of India (SBI) will move to a new interest rate regime on large savings account deposits as well as short-term loans. In March, SBI had announced that it will link its interest rate on savings account with balance above ₹1 lakh and short-term loans like overdraft and cash credit facility to Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) repo rate, effective 1 May 2019. Or in other words, interest rates on large SBI savings account deposits and interest rate on some short-term loans will automatically change as and when RBI changes its repo rate. This will help in better transmission of RBI’s policy rates into the banking system.
Here are the major points to keep in mind;
1) After back-to-back interest rate cuts by the RBI in February and April, repo rate currently stands at 6%. On savings accounts with deposits above ₹1 lakh, SBI will be offering interest rate of 275 bps below repo rate from May 1. This means effective rate will be 3.25% per annum. Currently, SBI offers interest rate of 3.5% on savings account deposits of up to ₹1 crore and 4% on deposits above ₹1 crore.
2) SBI savings accounts with balances up to ₹1 lakh will continue to fetch interest rate of 3.50% per annum. This comprises about 95% of total SBI savings account holders.
3) Also, from May 1, SBI will link short-term loans such as cash credit accounts and overdrafts with limits above ₹1 lakh to the repo rate for better transmission of RBI’s policy rates.
4) All cash credit accounts and overdrafts with limits above ₹1 lakh will also be linked to the benchmark policy rate, plus a spread of 2.25%—amounting to 8.25%.
5) SBI will charge a risk premium on these loans, over and above the floor rate of 8.25%, based on the risk profile of the borrower, similar to the current practice.
As on December 31, 2018, SBI had a deposit base of over ₹28 lakh crore and advances of over ₹21 lakh crore.
Patanjali to get a ₹4,325 crore bid for Ruchi Soya from lenders
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Shashi Tharoor gets permission to travel abroad
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Žemaitaitis re-elected chairman of Lithuania's Order and Justice party
Remigijus Žemaitaitis has been re-elected chairman of Lithuania's Order and Justice party.
Remigijus Žemaitaitis /Foto: Domininkas Ramonas
177 out of around 300 delegates voted for him during the party's convention in the west city of Klaipėda on Saturday. His rival Jūratė Šivickienė, head of the party's Šiauliai branch, received 80 votes.
"Preparations for the upcoming municipal elections are not the most important thing," Žemaitaitis told BNS Lithuania, adding that the party would endorse candidates next month.
Liberal, Order and Justice MPs appointed Lithuanian parlt vice-speakers
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Prosecutor charges Paksas of agreeing to take bribe for his party
The public prosecutor in the influence peddling trial of Rolandas Paksas and Gedvydas Vainauskas ,...
I will stand for president election in any case, Paksas says - media
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Order and Justice joins Lithuania's ruling coalition in parliament
The Order and Justice party joined on Tuesday the ruling coalition of the Lithuanian Farmers and...
Order and Justice Party council decides to nominate Paksas as presidential candidate
The Order and Justice council decided on Sunday to propose Rolandas Paksas for the post of the...
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Public Service Message
» HOW WE HELP » THE TRUTH ABOUT DRUGS
The PSAs are designed to bring about increased awareness of the effects of drugs and to cut usage rates wherever they are broadcast. The first three ads address a common misconception leading to drug experimentation: the belief that taking drugs makes you cool (“Popular”), that one drug high won’t lead to addiction (“Just Once”), and that one hit can’t hurt you (“One Hit”).
Shattering the most common myths about drugs, the 16 “They Said, They Lied” PSAs are available online and have aired around the world to millions of viewers.
The other PSAs address commonly used drugs: marijuana, alcohol, Ecstasy, cocaine, crack cocaine, crystal meth, inhalants, heroin, LSD and prescription painkillers. The messages are designed to present realistic situations and facts in a way that communicates to young people so they will listen. Each PSA corresponds to one of The Truth About Drugs booklets.
More than 500 television stations in some 100 countries have aired the Truth About Drugs PSAs. Industry communication experts give “They Said, They Lied” PSAs high ratings for rising above mass media noise and effectively reaching their intended audience. The messages have won Telly, Addy and other awards.
The PSAs have also received laudatory reviews from those responsible for teaching about drugs:
“The PSAs provided the students with an immediate connection, as they used people within their own age group with whom they could identify.” —Teacher, Canada
“I always use the PSAs to get their attention…The videos seem to start the discussions, and then student after student volunteers to share about their own lives and families. The impact is huge.” —Instructor, Utah
Government, law enforcement agencies, schools, community groups and other drug prevention programs utilize the Truth About Drugs PSAs.
Since their release in 2008, the Truth About Drugs public service announcements have been viewed by tens of millions.
These messages provide a strong introduction to drug education presentations and are one of the components of the Truth About Drugs curriculum. They are utilized widely by government, law enforcement agencies, schools, community groups and other drug prevention programs.
In Honduras, where the National Council Against Drug Trafficking has partnered with Foundation for a Drug-Free World, the messages are used in presentations to senior military officers and cadets at the military academy.
Police officers from the Texas Crime Prevention Association use the PSAs and Truth About Drugs booklets in their drug education presentations.
In Panama, a drug education campaign was launched by regularly playing the PSAs through prime time on the country’s national television station, reaching 2 million viewers.
In Taiwan, the messages have likewise been played on national television to 5 million viewers and are used as part of the drug education curriculum in 500 schools.
Across the world, these powerful messages are saving youth from falling prey to the lure of drugs.
CLICK ON A PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT TO SEE THE VIDEO
1 ALCOHOL 2 COCAINE 3 CRACK 4 CRYSTAL METH
5 ECSTACY 6 HEROIN 7 INHALANTS
8 JUST ONCE 9 LSD 10 ONE HIT
11 PAINKILLERS 12 POPULAR 13 RITALIN
14 MARIJUANA
15 THEY SAID, THEY LIED
16GET YOUR KIDS THE TRUTH ABOUT DRUGS.drugfreeworld.org
The Truth About Drugs “They Said, They Lied” PSAs have been aired by more than 500 TV stations in some 100 countries. Each PSA takes up an individual illicit drug or substance, visually depicting its harmful effects with realistic stories.
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Silmo Paris is reinventing itself!
Published on 24 May 2016 by Pierre Stril - updated on 30 May 2017
it is now spotlighted as the world’s largest flagship store dedicated to vision.
Silmo: more than just a trade fair an authentic flagship store
In order to meet exhibitor and visitor needs more effectively and further bolster its status as a leader, Silmo is undergoing a major facelift. No longer just a trade fair, it is now spotlighted as the world’s largest flagship store dedicated to vision. Under one roof, it brings together the optic sector’s most comprehensive offering, confirming its role as a key driver of business for all its participants.
Visitors to Silmo Paris come in search of new experiences likely to enhance their business performance. They want to be given a sneak preview of new technologies and innovations, original designs and upcoming fashions. They require access to information and training on products and the latest trends. They come to meet existing suppliers and identify new ones. They also wish to meet their peers
Communication has more than one trick up its sleeves
This 2015 edition marks a new departure. This is the first time a professional trade fair has positioned itself as a flagship store, reaffirming its reputation as the most comprehensive showcase of an entire sector.
Conveying a sharp contrast, the visuals feature characters in black and white, each holding a Silmo bag. The duotone effect produces a visual shock that instantly draws the eye... An ambience in which fashion and style generate new business. The campaign reveals the new Silmo’s true personality, characterised by high visibility and distinction.
Silmo’s branding (logo and brand persona) have also been revamped. Its visual identity has a more streamlined look, adding a touch of chic sophistication. Thanks to these new communication tools, the optics sector’s centrepiece event sets out to make a bigger impact, enhance its visibility and attract new visitors... a win-win situation for everyone involved.
Visuel-femme_
Visuel-homme_
SILMO, from evolutions to revolutions Published on 24 May 2016 by Pierre Stril
Participate to the next Silmo academy colloquium ! Published on 30 May 2017 by Pierre Stril
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Wisconsin Badgers fall camp breakdown; Gymnastics, Swimming & the 2016 Olympics
From: Kielbasa Kings Sports Extravaganza
Sports, #green bay packers, #olympics, #rio de janeiro, #wisconsin badgers, #wisconsin badgers football
Jared Abbrederis is making a case for a roster spot on the Green Bay Packers. We'll preview the Packers' preseason match-up against Joe Schobert, Joe Thomas and the Cleveland Browns. That, and we'll discuss Brett Favre's Hall of Fame speech and the fiasco in Canton regarding the preseason game itself.
At 8:45 p.m. CST, the Big 920's Armen Saryan pops on to discuss the 2016 Olympic Games. What stories have impressed him the most so far a week into the ... See More games? How many medals will the U.S. women's gymnastics team own by the end of the competition?
At 9 p.m. CST, BadgerBlitz.com's John Veldhuis breaks down the first three days of Wisconsin Badgers' fall camp and what he's seen. What can we make of the first couple of days, and what is he looking forward to the most during camp?
All this and more - TONIGHT!
Kielbasa Kings Sports Extravaganza 0 followers Follow Following
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Public Charge Inadmissibility Law
This rule will determine if an alien is inadmissible based on his or her likelihood of becoming a public charge...
New Public Charge Rule, Not Retroactive
The rule goes into effect on 10/15/19...
DEFERRED ACTION FOR CHILDHOOD ARRIVALS (DACA)
Recent government announcements and court cases on DACA have created confusion...
Hispanics ‘are going further into the shadows’
Police departments have reported a decrease in crime reporting in predominantly Hispanic neighborhoods...
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Category: Links
Written by Sandra Banguero
The U.S. Labor Department said on Tuesday it is stepping up efforts to root out potential fraud in its visa programs for foreign workers, a move that will include increases in both civil investigations as well as criminal referrals.The announcement by Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta follows President Donald Trump in April ordering a review of the U.S. visa program as part of his "America First" campaign pledge.The April executive order specifically entailed a review of the H-1B visa program, which is routinely used by technology firms like Tata Consultancy Services Ltd, Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp and Infosys Ltd to bring skilled foreign workers, such as engineers and programmers, to jobs in the United States.Critics of the program, including Trump senior adviser Stephen Miller, have argued that the laws governing these visas are lax and make it too easy for companies to replace U.S. workers with less-expensive foreign labor.
The U.S. Labor Department and Department of Homeland Security each play a role in reviewing the applications for foreign guest workers.In April, Homeland Security said it was planning to take steps as well to prevent fraud in the H-1B visa program.
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Buggana Rajendranath Reddy
Buggana Rajendranath Accuses Chandrababu Naidu Of Insider Trading
Andhra pradesh Politics December 17, 2019, 6:58 pm Updated: December 17, 2019, 9:31 pm
AMARAVATI: Exposing the irregularities of the previous government in the capital city, Finance Minister Buggana Rajendranath gave a blow by blow account on how the land was acquired and the methodology used to benefit the TDP leaders and their coterie.
Land was acquired in the peripheries of the proposed capital region by people close to TDP leadership months before the announcement of the capital area which is insider trading and there were many irregularities in land acquisition and awarding contracts to Singapore companies with terms loaded heavily in favour of the foreign companies, he said during the discussion on Amaravati.
Between June and December of 2014 about 4,070 acres of land was acquired by the coterie of TDP in the peripheries which shows that there was a clear case of insider trading. Prominent among those who purchased land during the period, which is before the announcement of the capital, Heritage Foods, the company owned by the family members of Chandrababu Niadu.
They have rescheduled the boundary and ring road adjacent to the lands to benefit their coterie. They have also taken away the assigned lands using coercion and later on issue a GO to regularise it and take it for land pooling. After acquisition land allotment there was discrimination in pricing between government institutions and people close to the ruling party, he said.
The Finance Minister said that the previous government tried to showcase Singapore companies as mascot to create real estate boom and sell plots which they called as self financed project. The TDP did not consider the report of Sivaramakrishanan Committee and had set up a parallel committee of entrepreneurs.
Earlier, initiating the debate, Dharmana Prasada Rao said that the need of the hour decentralised development and do not concentrate on one area which is a lesson we have to learn from the Hyderabad experience.
Lauding the Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy for his initiatives, he said, the government should go forward and see that all regions should be developed equally and there should be no heartburn from people of any part of the state.
The previous TDP has cheated the people and has the capital city as a real estate venture resorting to insider trading and playing taunt on the issue. The government paid exorbitant fees to consultants and encouraged Singapore companies with very soft terms and used Swiss Challenge though it was considered as a faulty system.
What the present government has to do is to build a people’s capital.
The other suggestions that have come include multiple capitals in different regions of the state, assigned lands were taken away by the government and 52,000 acres of land was acquired where there was no need for such a large extent of land.
When the Opposition members rushed to the well of the House and disrupting the proceedings, the Speaker has suspended the TDP members on the motion moved by the Legislative Affairs Minister.Also Read:Dharmana Prasada Rao Lashes At Chandrababu Naidu
Andhra pradesh Politics
Invest Money In Irrigation Projects Than Capital -Dharmana
He said that the people of the State welcomed the decision taken by Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy to develop all regions in the future.
YSRCP Leaders Conduct Rally In Support of 3-Capital Proposal
Endowments Minister Vellampalli said that the rally was undertaken to prevent the deception, which was being propagated by TDP Chief N Chandrababu Naidu.
Pawan Kalyan’s Dance, Drama Won’t Get Investments For AP: KA Paul
Praja Shanti Party Chief criticised actor-turned-politician and sarcastically said, “AP won’t get any investments with Pawan Kalyan dance and Dramas’.”
Mid-day Meals Scheme: New Menu Will Be Implemented From January 21
The new menu in mid-day meals scheme will be implemented from January 21, said Education Minister Adimulapu Suresh.
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(-) Remove Consolidator Grant (CoG) (32) filter Consolidator Grant (CoG) (32)
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 32. Show 10 | 20 results per page.
Project acronym Allelic Regulation
Project Revealing Allele-level Regulation and Dynamics using Single-cell Gene Expression Analyses
Researcher (PI) Thore Rickard Hakan Sandberg
Host Institution (HI) KAROLINSKA INSTITUTET
Summary As diploid organisms inherit one gene copy from each parent, a gene can be expressed from both alleles (biallelic) or from only one allele (monoallelic). Although transcription from both alleles is detected for most genes in cell population experiments, little is known about allele-specific expression in single cells and its phenotypic consequences. To answer fundamental questions about allelic transcription heterogeneity in single cells, this research program will focus on single-cell transcriptome analyses with allelic-origin resolution. To this end, we will investigate both clonally stable and dynamic random monoallelic expression across a large number of cell types, including cells from embryonic and adult stages. This research program will be accomplished with the novel single-cell RNA-seq method developed within my lab to obtain quantitative, genome-wide gene expression measurement. To distinguish between mitotically stable and dynamic patterns of allelic expression, we will analyze large numbers a clonally related cells per cell type, from both primary cultures (in vitro) and using transgenic models to obtain clonally related cells in vivo. The biological significance of the research program is first an understanding of allelic transcription, including the nature and extent of random monoallelic expression across in vivo tissues and cell types. These novel insights into allelic transcription will be important for an improved understanding of how variable phenotypes (e.g. incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity) can arise in genetically identical individuals. Additionally, the single-cell transcriptome analyses of clonally related cells in vivo will provide unique insights into the clonality of gene expression per se.
As diploid organisms inherit one gene copy from each parent, a gene can be expressed from both alleles (biallelic) or from only one allele (monoallelic). Although transcription from both alleles is detected for most genes in cell population experiments, little is known about allele-specific expression in single cells and its phenotypic consequences. To answer fundamental questions about allelic transcription heterogeneity in single cells, this research program will focus on single-cell transcriptome analyses with allelic-origin resolution. To this end, we will investigate both clonally stable and dynamic random monoallelic expression across a large number of cell types, including cells from embryonic and adult stages. This research program will be accomplished with the novel single-cell RNA-seq method developed within my lab to obtain quantitative, genome-wide gene expression measurement. To distinguish between mitotically stable and dynamic patterns of allelic expression, we will analyze large numbers a clonally related cells per cell type, from both primary cultures (in vitro) and using transgenic models to obtain clonally related cells in vivo. The biological significance of the research program is first an understanding of allelic transcription, including the nature and extent of random monoallelic expression across in vivo tissues and cell types. These novel insights into allelic transcription will be important for an improved understanding of how variable phenotypes (e.g. incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity) can arise in genetically identical individuals. Additionally, the single-cell transcriptome analyses of clonally related cells in vivo will provide unique insights into the clonality of gene expression per se.
Project acronym BEAT
Project The functional interaction of EGFR and beta-catenin signalling in colorectal cancer: Genetics, mechanisms, and therapeutic potential.
Researcher (PI) Andrea BERTOTTI
Host Institution (HI) UNIVERSITA DEGLI STUDI DI TORINO
Summary Monoclonal antibodies against the EGF receptor (EGFR) provide substantive benefit to colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. However, no genetic lesions that robustly predict ‘addiction’ to the EGFR pathway have been yet identified. Further, even in tumours that regress after EGFR blockade, subsets of drug-tolerant cells often linger and foster ‘minimal residual disease’ (MRD), which portends tumour relapse. Our preliminary evidence suggests that reliance on EGFR activity, as opposed to MRD persistence, could be assisted by genetically-based variations in transcription factor partnerships and activities, gene expression outputs, and biological fates controlled by the WNT/beta-catenin pathway. On such premises, BEAT (Beta-catenin and EGFR Abrogation Therapy) will elucidate the mechanisms of EGFR dependency, and escape from it, with the goal to identify biomarkers for more efficient clinical management of CRC and develop new therapies for MRD eradication. A multidisciplinary approach will be pursued spanning from integrative gene regulation analyses to functional genomics in vitro, pharmacological experiments in vivo, and clinical investigation, to address whether: (i) specific genetic alterations of the WNT pathway affect anti-EGFR sensitivity; (ii) combined neutralisation of EGFR and WNT signals fuels MRD deterioration; (iii) data from analysis of this synergy can lead to the discovery of clinically meaningful biomarkers with predictive and prognostic significance. This proposal capitalises on a unique proprietary platform for high-content studies based on a large biobank of viable CRC samples, which ensures strong analytical power and unprecedented biological flexibility. By providing fresh insight into the mechanisms whereby WNT/beta-catenin signalling differentially sustains EGFR dependency or drug tolerance, the project is expected to put forward an innovative reinterpretation of CRC molecular bases and advance the rational application of more effective therapies.
Monoclonal antibodies against the EGF receptor (EGFR) provide substantive benefit to colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. However, no genetic lesions that robustly predict ‘addiction’ to the EGFR pathway have been yet identified. Further, even in tumours that regress after EGFR blockade, subsets of drug-tolerant cells often linger and foster ‘minimal residual disease’ (MRD), which portends tumour relapse. Our preliminary evidence suggests that reliance on EGFR activity, as opposed to MRD persistence, could be assisted by genetically-based variations in transcription factor partnerships and activities, gene expression outputs, and biological fates controlled by the WNT/beta-catenin pathway. On such premises, BEAT (Beta-catenin and EGFR Abrogation Therapy) will elucidate the mechanisms of EGFR dependency, and escape from it, with the goal to identify biomarkers for more efficient clinical management of CRC and develop new therapies for MRD eradication. A multidisciplinary approach will be pursued spanning from integrative gene regulation analyses to functional genomics in vitro, pharmacological experiments in vivo, and clinical investigation, to address whether: (i) specific genetic alterations of the WNT pathway affect anti-EGFR sensitivity; (ii) combined neutralisation of EGFR and WNT signals fuels MRD deterioration; (iii) data from analysis of this synergy can lead to the discovery of clinically meaningful biomarkers with predictive and prognostic significance. This proposal capitalises on a unique proprietary platform for high-content studies based on a large biobank of viable CRC samples, which ensures strong analytical power and unprecedented biological flexibility. By providing fresh insight into the mechanisms whereby WNT/beta-catenin signalling differentially sustains EGFR dependency or drug tolerance, the project is expected to put forward an innovative reinterpretation of CRC molecular bases and advance the rational application of more effective therapies.
Project acronym bECOMiNG
Project spontaneous Evolution and Clonal heterOgeneity in MoNoclonal Gammopathies: from mechanisms of progression to clinical management
Researcher (PI) Niccolo Bolli
Host Institution (HI) UNIVERSITA DEGLI STUDI DI MILANO
Summary As an onco-hematologist with a strong expertise in genomics, I significantly contributed to the understanding of multiple myeloma (MM) heterogeneity and its evolution over time, driven by genotypic and phenotypic features carried by different subpopulations of cells. MM is preceded by prevalent, asymptomatic stages that may evolve with variable frequency, not accurately captured by current clinical prognostic scores. Supported by preliminary data, my hypothesis is that the same heterogeneity is present early on the disease course, and identification of the biological determinants of evolution at this stage will allow better prediction of its evolutionary trajectory, if not its control. In this proposal I will therefore make a sharp change from conventional approaches and move to early stages of MM using unique retrospective sample cohorts and ambitious prospective sampling. To identify clonal MM cells in the elderly before a monoclonal gammopathy can be detected, I will collect bone marrow (BM) from hundreds of hip replacement specimens, and analyze archive peripheral blood samples of thousands of healthy individuals with years of annotated clinical follow-up. This will identify early genomic alterations that are permissive to disease initiation/evolution and may serve as biomarkers for clinical screening. Through innovative, integrated single-cell genotyping and phenotyping of hundreds of asymptomatic MMs, I will functionally dissect heterogeneity and characterize the BM microenvironment to look for determinants of disease progression. Correlation with clinical outcome and mini-invasive serial sampling of circulating cell-free DNA will identify candidate biological markers to better predict evolution. Last, aggressive modelling of candidate early lesions and modifier screens will offer a list of vulnerabilities that could be exploited for rationale therapies. These methodologies will deliver a paradigm for the use of molecularly-driven precision medicine in cancer.
As an onco-hematologist with a strong expertise in genomics, I significantly contributed to the understanding of multiple myeloma (MM) heterogeneity and its evolution over time, driven by genotypic and phenotypic features carried by different subpopulations of cells. MM is preceded by prevalent, asymptomatic stages that may evolve with variable frequency, not accurately captured by current clinical prognostic scores. Supported by preliminary data, my hypothesis is that the same heterogeneity is present early on the disease course, and identification of the biological determinants of evolution at this stage will allow better prediction of its evolutionary trajectory, if not its control. In this proposal I will therefore make a sharp change from conventional approaches and move to early stages of MM using unique retrospective sample cohorts and ambitious prospective sampling. To identify clonal MM cells in the elderly before a monoclonal gammopathy can be detected, I will collect bone marrow (BM) from hundreds of hip replacement specimens, and analyze archive peripheral blood samples of thousands of healthy individuals with years of annotated clinical follow-up. This will identify early genomic alterations that are permissive to disease initiation/evolution and may serve as biomarkers for clinical screening. Through innovative, integrated single-cell genotyping and phenotyping of hundreds of asymptomatic MMs, I will functionally dissect heterogeneity and characterize the BM microenvironment to look for determinants of disease progression. Correlation with clinical outcome and mini-invasive serial sampling of circulating cell-free DNA will identify candidate biological markers to better predict evolution. Last, aggressive modelling of candidate early lesions and modifier screens will offer a list of vulnerabilities that could be exploited for rationale therapies. These methodologies will deliver a paradigm for the use of molecularly-driven precision medicine in cancer.
Project acronym BIOMENDELIAN
Project Linking Cardiometabolic Disease and Cancer in the Level of Genetics, Circulating Biomarkers, Microbiota and Environmental Risk Factors
Researcher (PI) Marju Orho-Melander
Host Institution (HI) LUNDS UNIVERSITET
Summary Cardiovascular disease (CVD), type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity, collectively referred to as cardiometabolic disease, together with cancer are the major morbidities and causes of death. With few exceptions, research on cardiometabolic disease and cancer is funded, studied and clinically applied separately without fully taking advantage of knowledge on common pathways and treatment targets through interdisciplinary synergies. The purpose of this proposal is to reveal causal factors connecting and disconnecting cardiometabolic diseases and cancer, and to understand interactions between gut microbiota, host diet and genetic susceptibility in a comprehensive prospective cohort study design to subsequently allow design of intervention strategies to guide more personalized disease prevention. 1. We investigate causality between genetic risk factors for cardiometabolic disease associated traits and future incidence of T2D, CVD, cancer (total/breast/colon/prostate) and mortality (total, CVD- and cancer mortality), searching for causal factors in a prospective cohort with >15 y follow-up (N>30,000, incident cases N=3550, 4713, 5975, 6115 for T2D, CVD, cancer, mortality) 2. For the first time in a large population (N=6000), we investigate how gut and oral microbiome are regulated by dietary factors, gut satiety peptides and host genetics, and how such connections relate to cardiometabolic disease associated traits and cancer 3. We investigate the role of diet and gene-diet interactions of importance for cardiometabolic disease and cancer 4. We perform genotype, biomarker and gut microbiota based diet intervention studies. This inter-disciplinary project contributes to biological understanding of basic disease mechanisms and takes steps towards better possibilities to prevent and treat individuals at high risk for cardiometabolic disease, cancer and death.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD), type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity, collectively referred to as cardiometabolic disease, together with cancer are the major morbidities and causes of death. With few exceptions, research on cardiometabolic disease and cancer is funded, studied and clinically applied separately without fully taking advantage of knowledge on common pathways and treatment targets through interdisciplinary synergies. The purpose of this proposal is to reveal causal factors connecting and disconnecting cardiometabolic diseases and cancer, and to understand interactions between gut microbiota, host diet and genetic susceptibility in a comprehensive prospective cohort study design to subsequently allow design of intervention strategies to guide more personalized disease prevention. 1. We investigate causality between genetic risk factors for cardiometabolic disease associated traits and future incidence of T2D, CVD, cancer (total/breast/colon/prostate) and mortality (total, CVD- and cancer mortality), searching for causal factors in a prospective cohort with >15 y follow-up (N>30,000, incident cases N=3550, 4713, 5975, 6115 for T2D, CVD, cancer, mortality) 2. For the first time in a large population (N=6000), we investigate how gut and oral microbiome are regulated by dietary factors, gut satiety peptides and host genetics, and how such connections relate to cardiometabolic disease associated traits and cancer 3. We investigate the role of diet and gene-diet interactions of importance for cardiometabolic disease and cancer 4. We perform genotype, biomarker and gut microbiota based diet intervention studies. This inter-disciplinary project contributes to biological understanding of basic disease mechanisms and takes steps towards better possibilities to prevent and treat individuals at high risk for cardiometabolic disease, cancer and death.
Project acronym BloodVariome
Project Genetic variation exposes regulators of blood cell formation in vivo in humans
Researcher (PI) Björn Erik Ake NILSSON
Summary The human hematopoietic system is a paradigmatic, stem cell-maintained organ with enormous cell turnover. Hundreds of billions of new blood cells are produced each day. The process is tightly regulated, and susceptible to perturbation due to genetic variation. In this project, we will explore an innovative, population-genetic approach to find regulators of blood cell formation. Unlike traditional studies on hematopoiesis in vitro or in animal models, we will exploit natural genetic variation to identify DNA sequence variants and genes that influence blood cell formation in vivo in humans. Instead of inserting artificial mutations in mice, we will read out ripples from the experiments that nature has performed during evolution. Building on our previous work, unique population-based materials, mathematical modeling, and the latest genomics and genome editing techniques, we will: 1. Develop high-resolution association data and analysis methods to find DNA sequence variants influencing human hematopoiesis, including stem- and progenitor stages. 2. Identify sequence variants and genes influencing specific stages of adult and fetal/perinatal hematopoiesis. 3. Define the function, and disease associations, of identified variants and genes. Led by the applicant, the project will involve researchers at Lund University, Royal Institute of Technology and deCODE Genetics, and will be carried out in strong environments. It has been preceded by significant preparatory work. It will provide a first detailed analysis of how genetic variation influences human hematopoiesis, potentially increasing our understanding, and abilities to control, diseases marked by abnormal blood cell formation (e.g., leukemia).
The human hematopoietic system is a paradigmatic, stem cell-maintained organ with enormous cell turnover. Hundreds of billions of new blood cells are produced each day. The process is tightly regulated, and susceptible to perturbation due to genetic variation. In this project, we will explore an innovative, population-genetic approach to find regulators of blood cell formation. Unlike traditional studies on hematopoiesis in vitro or in animal models, we will exploit natural genetic variation to identify DNA sequence variants and genes that influence blood cell formation in vivo in humans. Instead of inserting artificial mutations in mice, we will read out ripples from the experiments that nature has performed during evolution. Building on our previous work, unique population-based materials, mathematical modeling, and the latest genomics and genome editing techniques, we will: 1. Develop high-resolution association data and analysis methods to find DNA sequence variants influencing human hematopoiesis, including stem- and progenitor stages. 2. Identify sequence variants and genes influencing specific stages of adult and fetal/perinatal hematopoiesis. 3. Define the function, and disease associations, of identified variants and genes. Led by the applicant, the project will involve researchers at Lund University, Royal Institute of Technology and deCODE Genetics, and will be carried out in strong environments. It has been preceded by significant preparatory work. It will provide a first detailed analysis of how genetic variation influences human hematopoiesis, potentially increasing our understanding, and abilities to control, diseases marked by abnormal blood cell formation (e.g., leukemia).
Project acronym CellTrack
Project Cellular Position Tracking Using DNA Origami Barcodes
Researcher (PI) Björn HÖGBERG
Summary The research I propose here will provide an enabling technology; spatially resolved transcriptomics, to address important problems in cell- and developmental-biology, in particular: How are stem cells in the skin and gut proliferating without turning into cancers? How are differentiated cells related, in their transcriptome and spatial positions, to their progenitors? To investigate these problems on a molecular level and open up paths to find completely new spatiotemporal interdependencies in complex biological systems, I propose to use our newly developed DNA-origami strategy (Benson et al, Nature, 523 p. 441 (2015) ), combined with a combinatorial cloning technique, to build a new method for deep mRNA sequencing of tissue with single-cell resolution. These new types of origami are stable in physiological salt conditions and opens up their use in in-vivo applications. In DNA-origami we can control the exact spatial position of all nucleotides. By folding the scaffold to display sequences for hybridization of fluorophores conjugated to DNA, we can create optical nano-barcodes. By using structures made out of DNA, the patterns of the optical barcodes will be readable both by imaging and by sequencing, thus enabling the creation of a mapping between cell locations in an organ and the mRNA expression of those cells. We will use the method to perform spatially resolved transcriptomics in small organs: the mouse hair follicle, and small intestine crypt, and also perform the procedure for multiple samples collected at different time points. This will enable a high-dimensional data analysis that most likely will expose previously unknown dependencies that would provide completely new knowledge about how these biological systems work. By studying these systems, we will uncover much more information on how stem cells contribute to regeneration, the issue of de-differentiation that is a common theme in these organs and the effect this might have on the origin of cancer.
The research I propose here will provide an enabling technology; spatially resolved transcriptomics, to address important problems in cell- and developmental-biology, in particular: How are stem cells in the skin and gut proliferating without turning into cancers? How are differentiated cells related, in their transcriptome and spatial positions, to their progenitors? To investigate these problems on a molecular level and open up paths to find completely new spatiotemporal interdependencies in complex biological systems, I propose to use our newly developed DNA-origami strategy (Benson et al, Nature, 523 p. 441 (2015) ), combined with a combinatorial cloning technique, to build a new method for deep mRNA sequencing of tissue with single-cell resolution. These new types of origami are stable in physiological salt conditions and opens up their use in in-vivo applications. In DNA-origami we can control the exact spatial position of all nucleotides. By folding the scaffold to display sequences for hybridization of fluorophores conjugated to DNA, we can create optical nano-barcodes. By using structures made out of DNA, the patterns of the optical barcodes will be readable both by imaging and by sequencing, thus enabling the creation of a mapping between cell locations in an organ and the mRNA expression of those cells. We will use the method to perform spatially resolved transcriptomics in small organs: the mouse hair follicle, and small intestine crypt, and also perform the procedure for multiple samples collected at different time points. This will enable a high-dimensional data analysis that most likely will expose previously unknown dependencies that would provide completely new knowledge about how these biological systems work. By studying these systems, we will uncover much more information on how stem cells contribute to regeneration, the issue of de-differentiation that is a common theme in these organs and the effect this might have on the origin of cancer.
Project acronym ContraNPM1AML
Project Dissecting to hit the therapeutic targets in nucleophosmin (NPM1)-mutated acute myeloid leukemia
Researcher (PI) Maria Paola MARTELLI
Host Institution (HI) UNIVERSITA DEGLI STUDI DI PERUGIA
Summary Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a group of hematologic malignancies which, due to their molecular and clinical heterogeneity, have been traditionally difficult to classify and treat. Recently, next-generation, whole-genome sequencing has uncovered several recurrent somatic mutations that better define the landscape of AML genomics. Despite these advances in deciphering AML molecular subsets, there have been no concurrent improvements in AML therapy which still relies on the ‘antracycline+cytarabine’ scheme. Hereto, only about 40-50% of adult young patients are cured whilst most of the elderly succumb to their disease. Therefore, new therapeutic approaches which would take advantage of the new discoveries are clearly needed. In the past years, we discovered and characterized nucleophosmin (NPM1) mutations as the most frequent genetic alteration (about 30%) in AML, and today NPM1-mutated AML is a new entity in the WHO classification of myeloid neoplasms. However, mechanisms of leukemogenesis and a specific therapy for this leukemia are missing. Here, I aim to unravel the complex network of molecular interactions that take place in this distinct genetic subtype, and find their vulnerabilities to identify new targets for therapy. To address this issue, I will avail of relevant pre-clinical models developed in our laboratories and propose two complementary strategies: 1) a screening-based approach, focused either on the target, by analyzing synthetic lethal interactions through CRISPR-based genome-wide interference, or on the drug, by high-throughput chemical libraries screenings; 2) a hypothesis-driven approach, based on our recent gained novel insights on the role of specific intracellular pathways/genes in NPM1-mutated AML and on pharmacological studies with ‘old’ drugs, which we have revisited in the specific AML genetic context. I expect our discoveries will lead to find novel therapeutic approaches and make clinical trials available to patients as soon as possible.
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a group of hematologic malignancies which, due to their molecular and clinical heterogeneity, have been traditionally difficult to classify and treat. Recently, next-generation, whole-genome sequencing has uncovered several recurrent somatic mutations that better define the landscape of AML genomics. Despite these advances in deciphering AML molecular subsets, there have been no concurrent improvements in AML therapy which still relies on the ‘antracycline+cytarabine’ scheme. Hereto, only about 40-50% of adult young patients are cured whilst most of the elderly succumb to their disease. Therefore, new therapeutic approaches which would take advantage of the new discoveries are clearly needed. In the past years, we discovered and characterized nucleophosmin (NPM1) mutations as the most frequent genetic alteration (about 30%) in AML, and today NPM1-mutated AML is a new entity in the WHO classification of myeloid neoplasms. However, mechanisms of leukemogenesis and a specific therapy for this leukemia are missing. Here, I aim to unravel the complex network of molecular interactions that take place in this distinct genetic subtype, and find their vulnerabilities to identify new targets for therapy. To address this issue, I will avail of relevant pre-clinical models developed in our laboratories and propose two complementary strategies: 1) a screening-based approach, focused either on the target, by analyzing synthetic lethal interactions through CRISPR-based genome-wide interference, or on the drug, by high-throughput chemical libraries screenings; 2) a hypothesis-driven approach, based on our recent gained novel insights on the role of specific intracellular pathways/genes in NPM1-mutated AML and on pharmacological studies with ‘old’ drugs, which we have revisited in the specific AML genetic context. I expect our discoveries will lead to find novel therapeutic approaches and make clinical trials available to patients as soon as possible.
Project acronym D-FENS
Project Dicer-Dependent Defense in Mammals
Researcher (PI) Petr Svoboda
Host Institution (HI) USTAV MOLEKULARNI GENETIKY AKADEMIE VED CESKE REPUBLIKY VEREJNA VYZKUMNA INSTITUCE
Summary Viral infection or retrotransposon expansion in the genome often result in production of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). dsRNA can be intercepted by RNase III Dicer acting in the RNA interference (RNAi) pathway, an ancient eukaryotic defense mechanism. Notably, endogenous mammalian RNAi appears dormant while its common and unique physiological roles remain poorly understood. A factor underlying mammalian RNAi dormancy is inefficient processing of dsRNA by the full-length Dicer. Yet, a simple truncation of Dicer leads to hyperactive RNAi, which is naturally present in mouse oocytes. The D-FENS project will use genetic animal models to define common, cell-specific and species-specific roles of mammalian RNAi. D-FENS has three complementary and synergizing objectives: (1) Explore consequences of hyperactive RNAi in vivo. A mouse expressing a truncated Dicer will reveal at the organismal level any negative effect of hyperactive RNAi, the relationship between RNAi and mammalian immune system, and potential of RNAi to suppress viral infections in mammals. (2) Define common and species-specific features of RNAi in the oocyte. Functional and bioinformatics analyses in mouse, bovine, and hamster oocytes will define rules and exceptions concerning endogenous RNAi roles, including RNAi contribution to maternal mRNA degradation and co-existence with the miRNA pathway. (3) Uncover relationship between RNAi and piRNA pathways in suppression of retrotransposons. We hypothesize that hyperactive RNAi in mouse oocytes functionally complements the piRNA pathway, a Dicer-independent pathway suppressing retrotransposons in the germline. Using genetic models, we will explore unique and redundant roles of both pathways in the germline. D-FENS will uncover physiological significance of the N-terminal part of Dicer, fundamentally improve understanding RNAi function in the germline, and provide a critical in vivo assessment of antiviral activity of RNAi with implications for human therapy.
Viral infection or retrotransposon expansion in the genome often result in production of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). dsRNA can be intercepted by RNase III Dicer acting in the RNA interference (RNAi) pathway, an ancient eukaryotic defense mechanism. Notably, endogenous mammalian RNAi appears dormant while its common and unique physiological roles remain poorly understood. A factor underlying mammalian RNAi dormancy is inefficient processing of dsRNA by the full-length Dicer. Yet, a simple truncation of Dicer leads to hyperactive RNAi, which is naturally present in mouse oocytes. The D-FENS project will use genetic animal models to define common, cell-specific and species-specific roles of mammalian RNAi. D-FENS has three complementary and synergizing objectives: (1) Explore consequences of hyperactive RNAi in vivo. A mouse expressing a truncated Dicer will reveal at the organismal level any negative effect of hyperactive RNAi, the relationship between RNAi and mammalian immune system, and potential of RNAi to suppress viral infections in mammals. (2) Define common and species-specific features of RNAi in the oocyte. Functional and bioinformatics analyses in mouse, bovine, and hamster oocytes will define rules and exceptions concerning endogenous RNAi roles, including RNAi contribution to maternal mRNA degradation and co-existence with the miRNA pathway. (3) Uncover relationship between RNAi and piRNA pathways in suppression of retrotransposons. We hypothesize that hyperactive RNAi in mouse oocytes functionally complements the piRNA pathway, a Dicer-independent pathway suppressing retrotransposons in the germline. Using genetic models, we will explore unique and redundant roles of both pathways in the germline. D-FENS will uncover physiological significance of the N-terminal part of Dicer, fundamentally improve understanding RNAi function in the germline, and provide a critical in vivo assessment of antiviral activity of RNAi with implications for human therapy.
Project acronym DISEASEAVATARS
Project Modeling Disease through Cell Reprogramming: a Translational Approach to the Pathogenesis of Syndromes Caused by Symmetrical Gene Dosage Imbalances
Researcher (PI) Giuseppe Testa
Summary The fundamental limitation in our ability to dissect human diseases is the scarce availability of human tissues at relevant disease stages, which is particularly salient for neural disorders. Somatic cell reprogramming is overcoming this limitation through the derivation of patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) that can be differentiated into disease-relevant cell-types. Despite these tantalizing possibilities, there are critical issues to be addressed in order to secure iPSC-modeling as a robust platform for the interrogation of disease aetiology and the development of new therapies. These concern the taming of human genetic variation, the identification of differentiation stages in which to uncover and validate phenotypes, and finally their translational into drug discovery assays. This project confronts these challenges focusing on the paradigmatic case of two rare but uniquely informative disorders caused by symmetric gene dosage imbalances at 7q11.23: Williams Beuren Syndrome and the subset of autism spectrum disorders associated to 7q11.23 microduplication. The hallmark of WBS is a unique behavioral-cognitive profile characterized by hypersociability and intellectual disability in the face of comparatively well-preserved language abilities. Hence, the striking symmetry in genotype and phenotype between WBS and 7dupASD points to the 7q11.23 cluster as a surprisingly small subset of dosage-sensitive genes affecting social behaviour and cognition. We build on a large panel of iPSC lines that we already reprogrammed from a unique cohort of WBS and 7dupASD patients and whose characterization points to specific derangements at the level of transcriptional/epigenetic control, protein synthesis and synaptic dysfunction. Through the integration of transcriptomic and epigenomic profiling with targeted mass spectrometry and gene network prediction we propose an innovative drug discovery pipeline for the identification of new therapeutic leads.
The fundamental limitation in our ability to dissect human diseases is the scarce availability of human tissues at relevant disease stages, which is particularly salient for neural disorders. Somatic cell reprogramming is overcoming this limitation through the derivation of patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) that can be differentiated into disease-relevant cell-types. Despite these tantalizing possibilities, there are critical issues to be addressed in order to secure iPSC-modeling as a robust platform for the interrogation of disease aetiology and the development of new therapies. These concern the taming of human genetic variation, the identification of differentiation stages in which to uncover and validate phenotypes, and finally their translational into drug discovery assays. This project confronts these challenges focusing on the paradigmatic case of two rare but uniquely informative disorders caused by symmetric gene dosage imbalances at 7q11.23: Williams Beuren Syndrome and the subset of autism spectrum disorders associated to 7q11.23 microduplication. The hallmark of WBS is a unique behavioral-cognitive profile characterized by hypersociability and intellectual disability in the face of comparatively well-preserved language abilities. Hence, the striking symmetry in genotype and phenotype between WBS and 7dupASD points to the 7q11.23 cluster as a surprisingly small subset of dosage-sensitive genes affecting social behaviour and cognition. We build on a large panel of iPSC lines that we already reprogrammed from a unique cohort of WBS and 7dupASD patients and whose characterization points to specific derangements at the level of transcriptional/epigenetic control, protein synthesis and synaptic dysfunction. Through the integration of transcriptomic and epigenomic profiling with targeted mass spectrometry and gene network prediction we propose an innovative drug discovery pipeline for the identification of new therapeutic leads.
Project acronym Epi4MS
Project Targeting the epigenome: towards a better understanding of disease pathogenesis and novel therapeutic strategies in Multiple Sclerosis
Researcher (PI) Maja JAGODIC
Summary Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a leading cause of unpredictable and incurable progressive disability in young adults. Although the exact cause remains unknown, this immune-mediated disease is likely triggered by environmental factors in genetically predisposed individuals. I propose that epigenetic mechanisms, which regulate gene expression without affecting the genetic code, mediate the processes that cause MS and that aberrant epigenetic states can be corrected, spearheading the development of alternative therapies. We will exploit the stable and reversible nature of epigenetic marks, in particular DNA methylation, to gain insights into the novel modifiable disease mechanisms by studying the target organ in a way that has not been possible before. This highly ambitious project comprises three synergistic facets formulated in specific aims to: (i) identify epigenetic states that characterize the pathogenesis of MS, (ii) prioritize functional epigenetic states using high-throughput epigenome-screens, and (iii) develop novel approaches for precision medicine based on correcting causal epigenetic states. Our unique MS biobank combined with cutting-edge methodologies to capture pathogenic cells and measure their functional states provides a rational starting point to identify MS targets. I will complement this approach with studies of the functional impact of MS targets using innovative in vitro screens, with the added value of unbiased discovery of robust regulators of specific MS pathways. Finally, my laboratory has extensive experience with animal models of MS and I will utilize these powerful systems to dissect molecular mechanisms of MS targets and test the therapeutic potential of targeted epigenome editing in vivo. Our findings will set the stage for a paradigm-shift in studying and treating chronic inflammatory diseases based on preventing and modulating aggressive immune responses by inducing self-sustained reversal of aberrant epigenetic states.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a leading cause of unpredictable and incurable progressive disability in young adults. Although the exact cause remains unknown, this immune-mediated disease is likely triggered by environmental factors in genetically predisposed individuals. I propose that epigenetic mechanisms, which regulate gene expression without affecting the genetic code, mediate the processes that cause MS and that aberrant epigenetic states can be corrected, spearheading the development of alternative therapies. We will exploit the stable and reversible nature of epigenetic marks, in particular DNA methylation, to gain insights into the novel modifiable disease mechanisms by studying the target organ in a way that has not been possible before. This highly ambitious project comprises three synergistic facets formulated in specific aims to: (i) identify epigenetic states that characterize the pathogenesis of MS, (ii) prioritize functional epigenetic states using high-throughput epigenome-screens, and (iii) develop novel approaches for precision medicine based on correcting causal epigenetic states. Our unique MS biobank combined with cutting-edge methodologies to capture pathogenic cells and measure their functional states provides a rational starting point to identify MS targets. I will complement this approach with studies of the functional impact of MS targets using innovative in vitro screens, with the added value of unbiased discovery of robust regulators of specific MS pathways. Finally, my laboratory has extensive experience with animal models of MS and I will utilize these powerful systems to dissect molecular mechanisms of MS targets and test the therapeutic potential of targeted epigenome editing in vivo. Our findings will set the stage for a paradigm-shift in studying and treating chronic inflammatory diseases based on preventing and modulating aggressive immune responses by inducing self-sustained reversal of aberrant epigenetic states.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 15. Show 10 results per page.
Project acronym COOPERATION
Project Evolutionary explanations for cooperation: microbes to humans
Researcher (PI) Stuart West
Host Institution (HI) THE CHANCELLOR, MASTERS AND SCHOLARS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD
Call Details Advanced Grant (AdG), LS8, ERC-2008-AdG
Summary Cooperation poses a problem to evolutionary theory because it can be exploited by selfish individuals. Evolutionary biologists have developed a detailed theoretical overview of possible solutions to the problem of cooperation. In contrast to our theoretical understanding of potential solutions, however,, we have been relatively unsuccessful at applying theory to understand observations of cooperative behaviour nature. We present a novel and interdisciplinary programme of research to address this problem by empirically testing assumptions and predictions of several leading explanations for cooperation. We will develop theory to make explicit testable predictions for specific systems. We will exploit the advantage offered by different study systems: experiments with bacteria, comparative studies on cooperative breeding vertebrates, and experiments on humans. In addition to addressing specific hypotheses, we will show how evolutionary theory links and differentiates explanations for cooperation across various taxa and levels of biological organization.
Cooperation poses a problem to evolutionary theory because it can be exploited by selfish individuals. Evolutionary biologists have developed a detailed theoretical overview of possible solutions to the problem of cooperation. In contrast to our theoretical understanding of potential solutions, however,, we have been relatively unsuccessful at applying theory to understand observations of cooperative behaviour nature. We present a novel and interdisciplinary programme of research to address this problem by empirically testing assumptions and predictions of several leading explanations for cooperation. We will develop theory to make explicit testable predictions for specific systems. We will exploit the advantage offered by different study systems: experiments with bacteria, comparative studies on cooperative breeding vertebrates, and experiments on humans. In addition to addressing specific hypotheses, we will show how evolutionary theory links and differentiates explanations for cooperation across various taxa and levels of biological organization.
Project acronym Division
Project Division of Labour and the Evolution of Complexity
Summary Division of labour is fundamental to the evolution of life on earth, allowing genes to work together to form genomes, cells to build organisms, pathogens to escape immune attack, and eusocial insect societies to achieve ecological dominance. Consequently, if we want to understand how life on earth evolved, we need to understand why division of labour does or, just as importantly, does not evolve. There are two major outstanding problems for our understanding of division of labour: First, how can we explain why division of labour has evolved with some traits, in some species, but not others? Given the potential benefits of dividing labour, why does it not arise more frequently in cooperative species? Second, in cases where division of labour has evolved, how can we explain the form that it takes? Why do factors such as the degree of specialisation, or mechanism used to produce different phenotypes, vary across species? I will combine my social evolution expertise with novel synthetic and genomic approaches to address these problems. I will explain the distribution and form of division of labour in the natural world, with an interdisciplinary research programme, divided into four work packages: (1) I will provide the first experimental test of the fundamental assumption that division of labour provides an efficiency benefit, by synthetically manipulating bacteria. (2) I will test how selection has acted for and against the evolution of division of labour in natural populations of bacteria, using novel genomic analysis techniques. (3) I will determine why division of labour evolved in some species, but not others, with an across species study on insects, and experimental evolution of bacteria. (4) I will establish a new field of research on why different species use different mechanisms to divide labour: genetic differences, environmental cues, or random assignment of roles. I will develop theory to explain this variation, and test this theory experimentally.
Division of labour is fundamental to the evolution of life on earth, allowing genes to work together to form genomes, cells to build organisms, pathogens to escape immune attack, and eusocial insect societies to achieve ecological dominance. Consequently, if we want to understand how life on earth evolved, we need to understand why division of labour does or, just as importantly, does not evolve. There are two major outstanding problems for our understanding of division of labour: First, how can we explain why division of labour has evolved with some traits, in some species, but not others? Given the potential benefits of dividing labour, why does it not arise more frequently in cooperative species? Second, in cases where division of labour has evolved, how can we explain the form that it takes? Why do factors such as the degree of specialisation, or mechanism used to produce different phenotypes, vary across species? I will combine my social evolution expertise with novel synthetic and genomic approaches to address these problems. I will explain the distribution and form of division of labour in the natural world, with an interdisciplinary research programme, divided into four work packages: (1) I will provide the first experimental test of the fundamental assumption that division of labour provides an efficiency benefit, by synthetically manipulating bacteria. (2) I will test how selection has acted for and against the evolution of division of labour in natural populations of bacteria, using novel genomic analysis techniques. (3) I will determine why division of labour evolved in some species, but not others, with an across species study on insects, and experimental evolution of bacteria. (4) I will establish a new field of research on why different species use different mechanisms to divide labour: genetic differences, environmental cues, or random assignment of roles. I will develop theory to explain this variation, and test this theory experimentally.
Project acronym DNA2REPAIR
Project DNA strand break repair and links to human disease
Researcher (PI) Stephen West
Host Institution (HI) THE FRANCIS CRICK INSTITUTE LIMITED
Summary Our genetic material is continually subjected to damage, either from endogenous sources such as reactive oxygen species, produced as by-products of oxidative metabolism, from the breakdown of replication forks during cell growth, or by agents in the environment such as ionising radiation or carcinogenic chemicals. To cope with DNA damage, cells employ elaborate and effective repair processes that specifically recognise a wide variety of lesions in DNA. These repair systems are essential for the maintenance of genome integrity. Unfortunately, some individuals are genetically predisposed to crippling diseases or cancers that are the direct result of mutations in genes involved in the DNA damage response. For several years our work has been at the forefront of basic biological research in the area of DNA repair, and in particular we have made significant contributions to the understanding of inheritable diseases such as breast cancer, Fanconi anemia, and the neurodegenerative disorder Ataxia with Oculomotor Apraxia (AOA). The focus of this ERC proposal is: (i) to determine the mechanism of action and high-resolution structure of the BRCA2 tumour suppressor, and to provide a detailed picture of the interplay between BRCA2, PALB2, RAD51AP1 and the RAD51 paralogs, in terms of RAD51 filament assembly, using biochemical, electron microscopic and cell biological approaches, (ii) to determine the biological role of a unique structure-selective tri-nuclease complex (SLX1-SLX4-MUS81-EME1-XPF-ERCC1), with particular emphasis on its roles in DNA crosslink repair and Fanconi anemia, and (iii) to understand the actions of Senataxin, which is defective in AOA2, in protecting against genome instability in neuronal cells. These three distinct and yet inter-related areas of the research programme will provide an improved understanding of basic mechanisms of DNA repair and thereby underpin future therapeutic developments that will help individuals afflicted with these diseases.
Our genetic material is continually subjected to damage, either from endogenous sources such as reactive oxygen species, produced as by-products of oxidative metabolism, from the breakdown of replication forks during cell growth, or by agents in the environment such as ionising radiation or carcinogenic chemicals. To cope with DNA damage, cells employ elaborate and effective repair processes that specifically recognise a wide variety of lesions in DNA. These repair systems are essential for the maintenance of genome integrity. Unfortunately, some individuals are genetically predisposed to crippling diseases or cancers that are the direct result of mutations in genes involved in the DNA damage response. For several years our work has been at the forefront of basic biological research in the area of DNA repair, and in particular we have made significant contributions to the understanding of inheritable diseases such as breast cancer, Fanconi anemia, and the neurodegenerative disorder Ataxia with Oculomotor Apraxia (AOA). The focus of this ERC proposal is: (i) to determine the mechanism of action and high-resolution structure of the BRCA2 tumour suppressor, and to provide a detailed picture of the interplay between BRCA2, PALB2, RAD51AP1 and the RAD51 paralogs, in terms of RAD51 filament assembly, using biochemical, electron microscopic and cell biological approaches, (ii) to determine the biological role of a unique structure-selective tri-nuclease complex (SLX1-SLX4-MUS81-EME1-XPF-ERCC1), with particular emphasis on its roles in DNA crosslink repair and Fanconi anemia, and (iii) to understand the actions of Senataxin, which is defective in AOA2, in protecting against genome instability in neuronal cells. These three distinct and yet inter-related areas of the research programme will provide an improved understanding of basic mechanisms of DNA repair and thereby underpin future therapeutic developments that will help individuals afflicted with these diseases.
Project acronym DNAREPAIR
Project Defects in DNA strand break repair and links to inheritable disease
Summary Our genetic material is continually subjected to damage, either from endogenous sources such as reactive oxygen species produced as by-products of oxidative metabolism, from the breakdown of replication forks during cell growth, or by agents in the environment such as ionising radiation or carcinogenic chemicals. To cope with DNA damage, cells employ elaborate and effective repair processes that specifically recognise a wide variety of lesions in DNA. These repair systems are essential for the maintenance of genome integrity. Unfortunately, some individuals are genetically predisposed to crippling diseases or cancers that are the direct result of mutations in genes involved in the DNA damage response. For several years our work has been at the forefront of basic biological research in the area of DNA repair, and in particular we have made significant contributions to the understanding of inheritable diseases such as breast cancer, Fanconi anemia, and the neurodegenerative disease Ataxia with Oculomotor Apraxia-1 (AOA-1). The focus of this ERC proposal is: (i) to define the phenotypic interplay between three inheritable cancer predisposition syndromes, Fanconi anemia, Bloom s syndrome and breast cancers caused by mutation of BRCA2, (ii) to determine the biological role of the newly discovered GEN1 Holliday junction resolvase in homologous recombination and repair, and (iii) to understand the actions of Aprataxin and Senataxin in relation to the inheritable neurodegenerative diseases AOA-1 and AOA-2, respectively. Our studies will provide an improved understanding of basic mechanisms of DNA repair and thereby underpin future therapeutic developments that will help individuals afflicted with these diseases.
Our genetic material is continually subjected to damage, either from endogenous sources such as reactive oxygen species produced as by-products of oxidative metabolism, from the breakdown of replication forks during cell growth, or by agents in the environment such as ionising radiation or carcinogenic chemicals. To cope with DNA damage, cells employ elaborate and effective repair processes that specifically recognise a wide variety of lesions in DNA. These repair systems are essential for the maintenance of genome integrity. Unfortunately, some individuals are genetically predisposed to crippling diseases or cancers that are the direct result of mutations in genes involved in the DNA damage response. For several years our work has been at the forefront of basic biological research in the area of DNA repair, and in particular we have made significant contributions to the understanding of inheritable diseases such as breast cancer, Fanconi anemia, and the neurodegenerative disease Ataxia with Oculomotor Apraxia-1 (AOA-1). The focus of this ERC proposal is: (i) to define the phenotypic interplay between three inheritable cancer predisposition syndromes, Fanconi anemia, Bloom s syndrome and breast cancers caused by mutation of BRCA2, (ii) to determine the biological role of the newly discovered GEN1 Holliday junction resolvase in homologous recombination and repair, and (iii) to understand the actions of Aprataxin and Senataxin in relation to the inheritable neurodegenerative diseases AOA-1 and AOA-2, respectively. Our studies will provide an improved understanding of basic mechanisms of DNA repair and thereby underpin future therapeutic developments that will help individuals afflicted with these diseases.
Project acronym ECAP
Project Genetic/epigenetic basis of ethnic differences in cancer predisposition
Researcher (PI) Gian-Paolo Dotto
Host Institution (HI) UNIVERSITE DE LAUSANNE
Summary "Integration of large scale genetic and epigenetic analysis needs to be coupled with well defined biological hypotheses that can be experimentally tested. This project is aimed at developing a novel integrated approach to understand genetic and epigenetic predisposition to cancer with skin as model system. The Caucasian (West European) and Asian (East Asian) populations differ substantially in their predisposition to skin cancer, specifically Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC). The underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. As in other organs, skin SCC results from changes in both epithelial and mesenchymal compartments. We will be focusing on two key gene regulatory networks of cells of the two compartments (keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts), with a key role in skin SCC. The ""keratinocyte network"" has Notch/p53/p63 as key nodes, while the ""dermal fibroblast network"" had Notch and AP1 family members. We will pursue two main goals : 1) We will test the hypothesis that a linkage can be established between specific genetic and epigenetic marks in the Caucasian versus Asian populations and differences in expression and function of ""keratinocyte and/or dermal fibroblast network genes"". 2) We will test the hypothesis that keratinocytes and/or dermal fibroblasts of Caucasian versus Asian individuals differ in their tumor yielding capability, and that these differences in cancer forming capability are due to differences in either ""keratinocyte or dermal fibroblast network genes"". The applicant is a world leader in epithelial signaling and cancer biology, and is heading interdisciplinary research efforts that bridge the basic and clinical sciences. Together with his bioinformatician and clinician collaborators, he is in an excellent position to attain the high goals of the proposal. The approach has not been attempted before, is only possible within the frame of an advanced ERC grant, and has substantial basic as well as translational/clinical implications."
"Integration of large scale genetic and epigenetic analysis needs to be coupled with well defined biological hypotheses that can be experimentally tested. This project is aimed at developing a novel integrated approach to understand genetic and epigenetic predisposition to cancer with skin as model system. The Caucasian (West European) and Asian (East Asian) populations differ substantially in their predisposition to skin cancer, specifically Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC). The underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. As in other organs, skin SCC results from changes in both epithelial and mesenchymal compartments. We will be focusing on two key gene regulatory networks of cells of the two compartments (keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts), with a key role in skin SCC. The ""keratinocyte network"" has Notch/p53/p63 as key nodes, while the ""dermal fibroblast network"" had Notch and AP1 family members. We will pursue two main goals : 1) We will test the hypothesis that a linkage can be established between specific genetic and epigenetic marks in the Caucasian versus Asian populations and differences in expression and function of ""keratinocyte and/or dermal fibroblast network genes"". 2) We will test the hypothesis that keratinocytes and/or dermal fibroblasts of Caucasian versus Asian individuals differ in their tumor yielding capability, and that these differences in cancer forming capability are due to differences in either ""keratinocyte or dermal fibroblast network genes"". The applicant is a world leader in epithelial signaling and cancer biology, and is heading interdisciplinary research efforts that bridge the basic and clinical sciences. Together with his bioinformatician and clinician collaborators, he is in an excellent position to attain the high goals of the proposal. The approach has not been attempted before, is only possible within the frame of an advanced ERC grant, and has substantial basic as well as translational/clinical implications."
Project acronym EMPATHICBRAIN
Project Plasticity of the Empathic Brain: Structural and Functional MRI Studies on the Effect of Empathy Training on the Human Brain and Prosocial Behaviour
Researcher (PI) Tania Singer
Host Institution (HI) MAX-PLANCK-GESELLSCHAFT ZUR FORDERUNG DER WISSENSCHAFTEN EV
Summary Social neuroscientists study the neural mechanisms underlying our capacity to understand our own and other people’s feelings. Despite neuroscientists’ advances in plasticity research and empathy research, little is known about cortical and behavioural plasticity in emotion understanding and empathy. Clearly, in today’s world, acquiring the capacity to effectively enhance empathy and prosocial behaviour is of the utmost importance. In the present project, we will investigate the malleability of empathy via training. We will adopt a multimethod and interdisciplinary approach, combining techniques and paradigms from the fields of neuroscience, (bio-)psychology, and economics. Studies 1-3 will provide a cross-sectional look at structural and functional differences in the brains of individuals scoring high vs. low on empathy, of those with pathological deficits in empathy (psychopaths, alexithymics), and of individuals starting vs. finishing a three-year training program in Carl Rogers’ person-centred therapy, which aims to increase emotional capacity and empathy. Study 4 will examine brain plasticity using real-time fMRI: Participants will learn to self-regulate brain activity through the use of immediate feedback from emotion-related brain areas while practicing certain mental techniques. In Study 5, a small-scale longitudinal study, healthy individuals will receive extensive training by professional instructors in either empathy- or memory-enhancing techniques previously developed in the East and the West. We will measure training-related changes in brain structure and functioning, in hormone levels, and in behaviour. Evidence for emotional brain plasticity in adults and children would not only have important implications for the implementation of scientifically validated, effective training programs for schools and for economic and political organizations, but also for the treatment of the marked social deficits in autistic and psychopathic populations.
Social neuroscientists study the neural mechanisms underlying our capacity to understand our own and other people’s feelings. Despite neuroscientists’ advances in plasticity research and empathy research, little is known about cortical and behavioural plasticity in emotion understanding and empathy. Clearly, in today’s world, acquiring the capacity to effectively enhance empathy and prosocial behaviour is of the utmost importance. In the present project, we will investigate the malleability of empathy via training. We will adopt a multimethod and interdisciplinary approach, combining techniques and paradigms from the fields of neuroscience, (bio-)psychology, and economics. Studies 1-3 will provide a cross-sectional look at structural and functional differences in the brains of individuals scoring high vs. low on empathy, of those with pathological deficits in empathy (psychopaths, alexithymics), and of individuals starting vs. finishing a three-year training program in Carl Rogers’ person-centred therapy, which aims to increase emotional capacity and empathy. Study 4 will examine brain plasticity using real-time fMRI: Participants will learn to self-regulate brain activity through the use of immediate feedback from emotion-related brain areas while practicing certain mental techniques. In Study 5, a small-scale longitudinal study, healthy individuals will receive extensive training by professional instructors in either empathy- or memory-enhancing techniques previously developed in the East and the West. We will measure training-related changes in brain structure and functioning, in hormone levels, and in behaviour. Evidence for emotional brain plasticity in adults and children would not only have important implications for the implementation of scientifically validated, effective training programs for schools and for economic and political organizations, but also for the treatment of the marked social deficits in autistic and psychopathic populations.
Project acronym EPIFOR
Project Complexity and predictability of epidemics: toward a computational infrastructure for epidemic forecasts
Researcher (PI) Vittoria Colizza
Host Institution (HI) ISTITUTO PER L'INTERSCAMBIO SCIENTIFICO
Summary The advantage provided by the increasingly interconnected nature of our world has generated a dangerous by-product: the possibility for rapid worldwide spread of epidemics. The ability to forecast epidemic evolution – as much accurately as we can now do for weather conditions – would be of invaluable help in fighting the emergence or re-emergence of viruses such as SARS, avian influenza, HIV-AIDS, Lyme disease, West Nile virus, or more recently the threat of an influenza pandemic. With the advent of interdisciplinary tools and methods, the latest modeling approaches for the study of the spread and control of infectious diseases witness the emergence of a new area of research – computational epidemiology – that integrates mathematical and statistical epidemiology with computational sciences and informatics tools to conduct scenario analysis in public health domain. While few research groups have begun to use large scale simulations for epidemic modeling, many fundamental theoretical questions are left unanswered. How does the complex nature of real world affect our predictive capabilities in the realm of computational epidemiology? What are the fundamental limits in epidemic evolution predictability with computational modeling? How do they depend on the level of accuracy of our description and knowledge of the state of the system? The present project aims at developing a vigorous research effort along two main directions corresponding to i) the formulation of models for the basic theoretical understanding of multi-scale and agent based approaches and their predictive power; ii) the development of computational approaches and data integration tools that will provide a realistic modeling framework for the analysis of observed epidemic outbreaks and the forecast of patterns of emerging diseases. The ERC Starting Independent Researcher Grant offers an ideal opportunity to start a structured program in this direction, aimed at providing fundamental advances in the field.
The advantage provided by the increasingly interconnected nature of our world has generated a dangerous by-product: the possibility for rapid worldwide spread of epidemics. The ability to forecast epidemic evolution – as much accurately as we can now do for weather conditions – would be of invaluable help in fighting the emergence or re-emergence of viruses such as SARS, avian influenza, HIV-AIDS, Lyme disease, West Nile virus, or more recently the threat of an influenza pandemic. With the advent of interdisciplinary tools and methods, the latest modeling approaches for the study of the spread and control of infectious diseases witness the emergence of a new area of research – computational epidemiology – that integrates mathematical and statistical epidemiology with computational sciences and informatics tools to conduct scenario analysis in public health domain. While few research groups have begun to use large scale simulations for epidemic modeling, many fundamental theoretical questions are left unanswered. How does the complex nature of real world affect our predictive capabilities in the realm of computational epidemiology? What are the fundamental limits in epidemic evolution predictability with computational modeling? How do they depend on the level of accuracy of our description and knowledge of the state of the system? The present project aims at developing a vigorous research effort along two main directions corresponding to i) the formulation of models for the basic theoretical understanding of multi-scale and agent based approaches and their predictive power; ii) the development of computational approaches and data integration tools that will provide a realistic modeling framework for the analysis of observed epidemic outbreaks and the forecast of patterns of emerging diseases. The ERC Starting Independent Researcher Grant offers an ideal opportunity to start a structured program in this direction, aimed at providing fundamental advances in the field.
Project acronym GENINVADE
Project Parasite population genomics and functional studies towards development of a blood stage malaria vaccine
Researcher (PI) David Joseph Conway
Host Institution (HI) LONDON SCHOOL OF HYGIENE AND TROPICAL MEDICINE ROYAL CHARTER
Call Details Advanced Grant (AdG), LS6, ERC-2011-ADG_20110310
Summary An effective malaria vaccine is needed, particularly against P. falciparum as this species causes more human mortality than all other eukaryotic pathogens combined. An understanding of natural selection operating on parasites in local endemic populations can enable understanding of core molecular mechanisms of global relevance. The objectives are to - Advance understanding of alternative pathways of erythrocyte invasion by malaria parasites - Advance understanding of immune evasion by malaria parasites - Identify optimal combinations of parasite proteins as malaria vaccine candidates - Develop the interface between population genomic and functional studies of malaria parasites The research programme will take an integrated approach to understanding pathogen adaptation, by designing experiments that are based on analysis at the molecular, functional, and population levels. (i) Population genetic analyses of P. falciparum in sites of contrasting endemicity in West Africa, to finely determine signatures of selection with high-resolution throughout the genome, and help refine hypotheses on mechanisms used by merozoites to invade erythrocytes and evade acquired immune responses. (ii) Experimental culture analysis of merozoite invasion into erythrocytes to identify the receptor-ligand interactions used by different parasite populations ex vivo. Novel receptor knockdown assays on cultured erythrocytes will be employed, and parasite adaptation experiments conducted to identify constraints on the use of alternative invasion pathways (iii) Innovative approaches to select individual parasites and characterise cell tropism, transcript profiles, and genome sequences. This is aimed to validate population level findings and revolutionise approaches to genetics and phenotyping of parasites in the future. Candidate molecule discoveries will be taken forwards to receptor-ligand interaction assays, antibody inhibition and immuno-epidemiological studies.
An effective malaria vaccine is needed, particularly against P. falciparum as this species causes more human mortality than all other eukaryotic pathogens combined. An understanding of natural selection operating on parasites in local endemic populations can enable understanding of core molecular mechanisms of global relevance. The objectives are to - Advance understanding of alternative pathways of erythrocyte invasion by malaria parasites - Advance understanding of immune evasion by malaria parasites - Identify optimal combinations of parasite proteins as malaria vaccine candidates - Develop the interface between population genomic and functional studies of malaria parasites The research programme will take an integrated approach to understanding pathogen adaptation, by designing experiments that are based on analysis at the molecular, functional, and population levels. (i) Population genetic analyses of P. falciparum in sites of contrasting endemicity in West Africa, to finely determine signatures of selection with high-resolution throughout the genome, and help refine hypotheses on mechanisms used by merozoites to invade erythrocytes and evade acquired immune responses. (ii) Experimental culture analysis of merozoite invasion into erythrocytes to identify the receptor-ligand interactions used by different parasite populations ex vivo. Novel receptor knockdown assays on cultured erythrocytes will be employed, and parasite adaptation experiments conducted to identify constraints on the use of alternative invasion pathways (iii) Innovative approaches to select individual parasites and characterise cell tropism, transcript profiles, and genome sequences. This is aimed to validate population level findings and revolutionise approaches to genetics and phenotyping of parasites in the future. Candidate molecule discoveries will be taken forwards to receptor-ligand interaction assays, antibody inhibition and immuno-epidemiological studies.
Project acronym HEALTHMPOWR
Project A New Paradigm for Public Health Surveillance: Unlocking the Potential of Data to Empower Women and Health Systems
Researcher (PI) Jahn Frederik Froen
Host Institution (HI) FOLKEHELSEINSTITUTTET
Summary Rationale: State of the art health registries, cornerstones of public health surveillance, have hardly capitalized on the information and communication technology revolution. Many continue to be static, fragmented, and passive data repositories disseminating outdated reports only to a closed loop of public health officials. Aim: In a radical departure from traditional science, this proposal introduces a new paradigm for public health surveillance: Maximizing the potential of data by disseminating data-driven individualized real-time information directly to women and providers to empower self-care in pregnancy and better healthcare delivery. Research question: Is routine, data-driven and automated feedback from a reproductive health registry (RHR) effective in improving health behaviour and quality of care? Plan: Based on the roll-out of a RHR in the Palestinian West Bank, four stepped wedged cluster randomized controlled trials will be undertaken to investigate the comparative effectiveness of a series of feedback modules to women and care providers. Main outcomes include adherence to evidence-based guidelines for providers, and self-care and care seeking among women. Impact: Coalescing with WHO/NIPH’s dissemination of the harmonized Reproductive Health Registries (hRHR) Initiative, the scientific horizons emerging from this proposal have potential for exceptional impact. Radically transforming public health surveillance by empowering women and health care providers with information can translate into better health care and behaviours thus saving lives.
Rationale: State of the art health registries, cornerstones of public health surveillance, have hardly capitalized on the information and communication technology revolution. Many continue to be static, fragmented, and passive data repositories disseminating outdated reports only to a closed loop of public health officials. Aim: In a radical departure from traditional science, this proposal introduces a new paradigm for public health surveillance: Maximizing the potential of data by disseminating data-driven individualized real-time information directly to women and providers to empower self-care in pregnancy and better healthcare delivery. Research question: Is routine, data-driven and automated feedback from a reproductive health registry (RHR) effective in improving health behaviour and quality of care? Plan: Based on the roll-out of a RHR in the Palestinian West Bank, four stepped wedged cluster randomized controlled trials will be undertaken to investigate the comparative effectiveness of a series of feedback modules to women and care providers. Main outcomes include adherence to evidence-based guidelines for providers, and self-care and care seeking among women. Impact: Coalescing with WHO/NIPH’s dissemination of the harmonized Reproductive Health Registries (hRHR) Initiative, the scientific horizons emerging from this proposal have potential for exceptional impact. Radically transforming public health surveillance by empowering women and health care providers with information can translate into better health care and behaviours thus saving lives.
Project acronym HIV HOST FACTORS
Project HOST FACTORS THAT FACILITATE AND RESTRICT HIV-1 REPLICATION
Researcher (PI) Stuart John Douglas Neil
Host Institution (HI) KING'S COLLEGE LONDON
Summary The efficient replication and spread of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1), the causative agent of the AIDS pandemic, requires that it parasitize an array of cellular proteins, many of which are unknown or uncharacterized, to facilitate its replication. In addition the virus must also defeat or subvert the human immune defences arrayed against it. Some of these immune defences, the innate retroviral restriction factors, have the capacity not only to directly interfere with the replication of the virus, but potentially to relay the information of its presence to activate a wider immune response – so called innate immune ‘sensing’. Molecular characterization of these processes for in vitro and in vivo replication of HIV-1 are essential for our understanding of the pathogenesis of HIV/AIDS. Additionally, it will provide strategies for the development of novel therapeutics for HIV treatment, and also potentially provide new paradigms that are applicable to other pathogenic mammalian viruses. To fill these gaps in our understanding this application seeks 5 years of ERC Starter Grant funding to explore two major research aims. Firstly we propose to characterize the interactions of retroviral restriction factors with the wider systemic immune response focusing on Tetherin/CD317/BST2 as a model system. In particular we will build on preliminary data suggesting that Tetherin can act as a general “pattern recognition molecule” for sensing assembling enveloped viruses by: A) transducing a proinflammatory signal and B) targeting nascent viral particles for antigen processing and presentation. Secondly we will apply novel genetic methods based on a haploid human cell line to identify, isolate and characterize human proteins that are required for early post-entry events in HIV replication or the function of the viral accessory protein Vpu.
The efficient replication and spread of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1), the causative agent of the AIDS pandemic, requires that it parasitize an array of cellular proteins, many of which are unknown or uncharacterized, to facilitate its replication. In addition the virus must also defeat or subvert the human immune defences arrayed against it. Some of these immune defences, the innate retroviral restriction factors, have the capacity not only to directly interfere with the replication of the virus, but potentially to relay the information of its presence to activate a wider immune response – so called innate immune ‘sensing’. Molecular characterization of these processes for in vitro and in vivo replication of HIV-1 are essential for our understanding of the pathogenesis of HIV/AIDS. Additionally, it will provide strategies for the development of novel therapeutics for HIV treatment, and also potentially provide new paradigms that are applicable to other pathogenic mammalian viruses. To fill these gaps in our understanding this application seeks 5 years of ERC Starter Grant funding to explore two major research aims. Firstly we propose to characterize the interactions of retroviral restriction factors with the wider systemic immune response focusing on Tetherin/CD317/BST2 as a model system. In particular we will build on preliminary data suggesting that Tetherin can act as a general “pattern recognition molecule” for sensing assembling enveloped viruses by: A) transducing a proinflammatory signal and B) targeting nascent viral particles for antigen processing and presentation. Secondly we will apply novel genetic methods based on a haploid human cell line to identify, isolate and characterize human proteins that are required for early post-entry events in HIV replication or the function of the viral accessory protein Vpu.
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Corporate Governance EU-Japan business Leadership
Post author By g_fasol
No Comments on Sir Stephen Gomersall on UK-Japan relations & globalization
Sir Stephen Gomersall
Sir Stephen Gomersall on corporate governance: Board Meetings should be like sparkling water – not like tea
Globalization and the art of tea
Hitachi – Japan’s most iconic corporation – under the leadership of Chairman & CEO, Hiroaki Nakanishi embarked on the “Smart Transformation Project” to globalize, to face a world where value creation has moved from manufacturing to innovation and solving customer’s problems, and to overcome long years of stagnation and low profits or losses, despite strong technology capabilities.
One of the most important brains behind Hitachi’s reinvention and globalization is Sir Stephen Gomersall. After a long and successful career as diplomat in the British Foreign Service, culminating in the years as British Ambassador to Japan 1999-2004, Sir Stephen joined Hitachi in 2004 as the first foreigner responsible for proposing and implementing Hitachi’s overseas regional strategy. Later Sir Stephen became responsible for all of Hitachi’s business in Europe as Chairman and Chief Executive of Hitachi Europe, and in addition Sir Stephen also served as Director on the Board of all Hitachi 2011-2014 overseeing all of Hitachi Group’s business as Board Director. With Sir Stephen’s leadership Hitachi achieved major business breakthroughs in Europe.
On March 5, 2015, Sir Stephen gave the “Princess Chichibu Memorial Lecture to the Japan British Society at Ueno Gakuen University in Tokyo with deep insights on Japan-British relations, on comparison of Britain’s and Japan’s position in the world, and on the challenges of globalization facing Japan and Japanese corporations – in particular Hitachi.
Sir Stephen is very clear that there is no alternative to globalization: “Globalisation poses tough challenges for Japanese companies, but is the only way forward”.
Read Sir Stephen’s lecture here:
Sir Stephen Gomersall: “Globalisation and the art of tea” (click the link above to read the full text of Sir Stephen’s Princess Chichibu Memorial Lecture)
Stephen Gomersall was British Ambassador to Japan from 1999-2004, and Hitachi’s Chief Executive for Europe and subsequently Board Director from 2004-2014. He is now Adviser to the CEO, Hitachi Ltd.
Copyright·©2015 ·Eurotechnology Japan KK·All Rights Reserved·
Tags globalization, hitachi, Sir Stephen Gomersall, 日立製作所
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Review: Generation Loss by Elizabeth Hand
Generation Loss by Elizabeth Hand, June 2013, 352 pages, C & R Crime, ISBN: 1472102797
Reviewed by Lynn Harvey.
(Read more of Lynn's reviews for Euro Crime here.)
Cass Neary knows she is a mess-up; growing up a loner, the only child of a widowed father, she always saw things differently from others – or rather she saw different things. She took to photography and left to study photojournalism in New York but instead she plunged into the city's 70s punk music scene. In a haze of pills and booze, she lived in the clubs photographing the kids as they took drugs, sex, sleep – overdoses. Still in her teens, she made a series of photos recreating paintings by Munch, Sickert, and Waterhouse. She called the series “Dead Girls” and it got her a gallery show, then a book, and she became a sensation. But she blew it with drugs, drunken interviews, insults and inappropriate come-ons. By her early twenties she had lost it and a bloody rape on a vacant lot in the Bowery put paid to her youth and promise. She surrendered. Cass spent the next twenty years in a miasma of alcohol and drugs, with a dead-end job and her photography limited to the occasional slot in a group show and the odd photo sold to the Soho Weekly News. Now, in her late forties, a dealer friend offers her a job; an interview with reclusive photography legend, Aphrodite Kamestos who is now in her seventies and living on a remote island off the Maine coast. This is Cass Neary's idol, the woman whose art changed her life. Cass says yes. Wearing her standard outfit of leather jacket, designer jeans and steel-tipped cowboy boots, with her only luggage – a satchel containing two photography books by Kamestos, a battered Konica camera, some film and a bag of crystal meth – Cass sets off in a rented car for the sub-zero temperatures of a Maine winter. She arrives that night, too late for the arranged boat out to the island. At the only motel in town she is greeted by a fifteen year old Goth receptionist and a lot of “Have You Seen...” flyers for missing cats and one for a guy called Martin Graves. Over the next few days Cass Neary enters the artist's remote world in all its hostility and menacing beauty. And with her own intuitions and compulsions she opens up the secrets it contains.
Elizabeth Hand is an American writer living in Maine and London. She has been writing and publishing fiction since the late 1980s. Much of her work is in the sci-fi and fantasy genre, including film novelisations and young adult fantasy, and she has two Nebula Awards to her name. She has said that GENERATION LOSS “... began as a fantasy novel and ended up as a psychological thriller.” This explains a structure that is a little uneven with an apparently paranormal incident at the start, in Cass's youth, which somehow fails to resonate. But by the time Cass gets to the end of her journey in Maine I had become totally absorbed in the “psychological thriller” aspect. It is a book about beauty, loss, death and murder but its riveting feature is the central character of Cass Neary; someone I should have disliked in so many ways – but I didn't. I know Stieg Larsson's GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO is a tired “front cover sticker” comparison but imagine his creation “Lisbeth Salander” twenty years older and without benefit of aims or redemption; wired, amoral, impulsive and detached from relationship. You start to get a picture of Cass Neary. Whereas bad girl “heroines” such as Larsson's “Lisbeth” and Carol O'Connell's detective “Kathy Mallory” funnel their outsiderness and obsessions into digital genius, Cass Neary remains defiantly analogue. She refuses to work with a digital camera; her own obsession and brilliance lying in an intuitive and detailed understanding of the photographer's eye and technique. Perhaps this a first in forensic detection skills.
I enjoyed GENERATION LOSS very much. It is dark, atmospheric and genuinely thrilling. UK publishers Constable & Robinson are due to bring out Hand's second Cass Neary book AVAILABLE DARK later this month and I certainly look forward to it.
Lynn Harvey, August 2013.
Labels: Elizabeth Hand, Generation Loss, Lynn Harvey, Reviews
I liked this book very much; it was a different touch, unique, with a very flawed protagonist.
It was interesting and I remember I couldn't wait to pick it up when I was doing other things.
However, in my opinion, the series took a dive with the next one Available Dark. Didn't like it at all, full of horrific violence and sadism. The Scandinavian settings didn't help.
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Emeryville Cornology under fire after witnesses attest use of racial slur by employee
Published On April 23, 2018 | By Rob Arias | News & Commentary, Social Justice & Activism
Cornology, the gourmet popcorn shop at Bay Street, is under fire after witnesses attest the use of a racial slur by an employee following an alleged theft. The incident is leading to calls for a boycott of the establishment by some members of the public.
A public post on Facebook by a witness provided a description of the incident that quickly went viral (over 2,000 shares at the time this story was published): “This business owner just chased a group of young black kids out of Cornology yelling, ‘dont come back here NI**ERS!’”
Members of the public immediately responded with a large number of negative reviews on Cornology Emeryville’s Facebook and Yelp Pages with calls to ‘shut down’ the establishment.
A response by the Cornology Facebook admin acknowledged the incident, stating their response was “inappropriate,” admitting that inexcusable language was used, and asking for “forgiveness” from the community..
We acknowledge your rightful anger and want to extend our deepest apologies to our community and neighbors. Our response to being robbed was inappropriate and came from shock, disbelief and anger. This does not excuse by any means the language or pain it caused to our community.
We ask for your forgiveness.
The incident comes in the wake of other high-profile incidents including the arrest of two black men at a Philadelphia Starbucks on April 12th. Outrage and protests over the event have resulted in the company’s plans to close 8,000 of its stores on May 29th for employee racial-bias training.
This incident reignited discussion of a 2015 incident at Elmwood Café in Berkeley involving CNN television show host/local comedian W. Kamau Bell. Elmwood abruptly shut their doors last Friday after the national attention led to a flood of negative reviews and posts.
1:11 p.m. update: When we reached out to Cornology Founder/CEO Mark Stone for comment via email, he provided the following response:
Thank you for contacting me about this unfortunate incident. We are profoundly sorry to the community for what was done in a moment of frustration during the heat of the moment. The store was a victim of a snatch and grab when over 15 kids deluged the store and ran out with merchandise. One lagged behind and started throwing unsuccessful punches. The response was not warranted under any circumstance and we are very sorry for reacting in the heat of the moment.
2:02 p.m. update: Emeryville Police Jennifer Tejada confirmed that her force responded to a call at the establishment on Sunday. “We responded to a call from the store owner requesting help with 19 juveniles who stole several items, tried to punch him and threw soda cans at him.”
Tuesday, April 24th update: In an interview with SF Chronicle reporter Justin Phillips, witnesses Fay Eastman and Aisha Weber described the Cornology employee as having provoked the incident saying he ‘aggressively’ demanded they leave as soon as they entered the store. “I didn’t see those kids running out with bags of popcorn. He just didn’t want them in the store,”
Witness photo on the left compared to professional bio photo of Cornology CEO Mark Stone.
Tuesday, April 24th update: Controversy continues to mount as witnesses, a Chronicle Reporter and an anonymous Emeryville official all attest that the employee involved in the incident was in fact Cornology CEO Mark Stone. The Cornology Facebook Page has been deactivated in response to the barrage of criticism from the public. As of today, the employee involved is still employed by the company.
Wednesday, April 25th update: Eater SF appears to have confirmed that Stone was indeed the ’employee’ and he was speaking of himself in the third person. “I am deeply sorry for what I did in the heat of a very tense moment during a robbery on Sunday. I reacted improperly during a very tense moment. I have sought forgiveness with GOD, Family and friends.”
Since this is breaking news, we will update this story as new information becomes available.
45 Responses to Emeryville Cornology under fire after witnesses attest use of racial slur by employee
Phil Epstein says:
Regardless of the issue of who’s “responsible” in situations like this, this a a bs apology – “Our response to being robbed” “came from shock, disbelief and anger”. Oh OK well you were angry and that’s why you used the most offensive racial slur in society. “Inappropriate” is a sadly sanitized corporate shadow of what it really was. And they ask for forgiveness in the same breath!
scharfstevengmailcom says:
If whites were stealing would they have yelled “don’t come back here honkies?” If it had been Jews wearing keepahs would they have yelled “don’t come back here kikes?” Probably not.
Proper training would involve learning to yell non-racist words at anyone stealing popcorn. “Don’t come back here you Bolsheviks.”
Avi Jacobson says:
“We have reached out to Cornology Founder/CEO Mark Stone for comment.” Unfortunately, it has been confirmed that it is Cornology Founder/CEO Mark Stone who used the racial epithets. https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=723644047652209&set=a.723643677652246.1073741825.100000198600349&type=3
Rob Arias says:
Thanks Avi, It wasn’t super obvious to me by looking at the pic and his professional bio it was the same person. If it is indeed him, clearly he has nobody to blame but himself and it’s going to be harder to fire or train them out of this bad PR. I’ll add that if this is the first word that comes out of one’s mouth when under duress, then this person might be repressing something that he should confront and should probably consider a different line of work that doesn’t involve dealing with the public at large.
Thanks for posting this, I worked at that same store three years ago and after putting my best foot forward for him, he would cut my hours completely and when I ask for a reason he simply said he didnt have any. After that, i just didn’t go back. Its good to read this, feels like a win. So thanks again.
Rob, I also looked him up on LinkedIn and was going to give him a heads up before it went further. Then I blew up the photo and realized, same dude, ten years and ten bajillion pounds of popcorn later.
I am trying to understand this; 15 black kids came into the store, stole things and this guy used a racial slur and everyone is all crazy because he used a racial slur? What about the kids who were stealing? Why isn’t anyone angry about that? Who are these kids’ parents and why are they allowed to run around in a big group like this stealing and apparently intimidating people? I just moved to Bay Area a couple years ago and all I can say is that people here truly do live in a bubble. You need to get your priorities straight. Both things that happened were terrible, but one was infinitely worse than the other.
I completely agree with Andrea’s comment. Why is no one looking into the group of kids that robbed the store? That’s really the bigger deal. The owner wasn’t just outside yelling the N word at people, it was provoked .The owner shouldn’t have used that word but hasn’t anyone else ever experience adrenaline pumping anger? The store owner was assaulted and had a group of 15 kids/teenagers in the store stealing his stuff and throwing soda??
Because ignoring what the group of teens did makes it a better photo op and fits the narrative that the owner just runs around shouting racist things at random people of color when two thirds of his clients are people of color. He certainly shouldn’t be shouting racist things, but he shouldn’t have to endure being robbed 4 times either.
Our mayor used the event as a photo op. I assume when he says “the aftermath of an act of hate”, he’s not referencing the teens robbing the store.
The telling feature of this story is that we haven’t heard from even one of the teens. There’s a reason no one is seeking out the teens for their input and none of the teens are leaping at the opportunity to admit they were there.
Bauters photo op tweet: “Tonight, a new family of friends has formed from a place of love & support in the aftermath of an act of hate.”
Note that he has yet to make any comment about the shooting of Alex Madias. Is shooting someone in the head not an act of hate?
We need to really get serious about putting some real leaders on our city council. People who can address all sides of problems rather than just exploit bad situations for political gain.
Like the lady who posted this outrage on Facebook said, these are babies who risk being scarred for life.
Mayor Bauters just wants to make sure we all know that when he runs for office.
Nothing better than a white man working black oppression for his ego and agenda.
This community knows they get free passes to act the way they do because there will always be some white man running his mouth about how he is such a cool white man looking out for them.
He’s the owner..trickles from the top
I don’t think it’s the same guy. They look pretty different. The CEO of the whole Cornology enterprise is probably not working the counter at one of their four locations. The guy may be the owner of that franchise.
The SFgate article makes it clear that the worker is NOT the CEO Mark Stone.
Nicholas Calderon says:
The stores statement that “ Our response to being robbed was inappropriate and came from shock, disbelief and anger.“ indicates that they are seeking some Sort of community sympathy because they were ‘robbed.’ The use of the term ‘robbed’ is itself overly inflammatory and extremely inaccurate, and I would guess purposely misleading. Being ‘robbed’ involves taking money or property by the threat of the use of force or the actual use of force. Consequently, shoplifting, even if such a thing could be proven, I’d not robbery or anywhere close to it. I have not read any account of the incident in which a robbery was described. To suggest, knowing it to be false, that their employee was physically accosted and threatened with bodily harm unless some caramel popcorn was turned over is just more maddening. They would have been better off not saying anything instead of being caught trying to garner sympathy. The community deserves sympathy, this company does not. What isn’t really strange is that they don’t even say whether the employee was let go because of this incident.
Unfortunately Bay Street sees this too often from the same demographic. Poor word choice, but any Emeryville resident knows where the trouble comes from.
Don’t lie to me and tell me otherwise.
Thank you, “Anonymous,” for the courage of your piss-ant racist convictions. My name is Avi Jacobson, I sign my comments, and I endorse this message.
so, was he/she wrong?
Eville Resident says:
Glad you can virtue signal online with your real name. The fact of the matter is crime is very common in Emeryville and the one carrying out these crimes happen to be black. Is that racist to say? I mean, fact is fact, but if you’re gonna bury your head in the sand and scream “racism”, you might be part of the problem.
I’m not gonna condone the use of that word. It makes me sick the hear about this incident. And I too advocate the boy cott of this business.
No, I’m not wrong but now Avi gets to pat him/herself on the back for being so much better than me. Congrats, hope that makes your community safer and more livable. Means nothing to me.
I’ve had this same demographic call me your VARIOUS non-PC names as I was merely trying to go about my life here in Emeryville. I’ve seen others incur their wrath. I’m over feeling empathetic. They get all sorts of passes, and for what?
I don’t think the owner did the right thing. However, enough of this faux outrage over popcorn.
Feel free to Progressive-enable all you want, for everyone you want.
That doesn’t change that these hoodrats are up to no good for the same of being up to no good.
So the E’Ville Eye does a story on a You Tube video featuring a racist in Emeryville and its readers are bringing mixed comments. Some are noting the poor choice of words but applauding the racist’s pleas for racism. These are the readers this site draws and this is the Editor’s base. We shouldn’t be shocked when conservatives use the conservative news site. Racists are among us in droves.
Check out that racist who rants on and on against Rubio on any EUSD post over there. Some disgruntled father. That’s the kind of reader that liberal site attracts. Yes, racists everywhere.
Given that there has been exactly one troll in the past decade or so who has decided that the EvilleEye is a conservative news site (idiotic), given that the same troll has been trolling the comment section of the EvilleEye in just about every article for the past month, and given that said troll has been parroting the Tattler’s inevitably ludicrous talking points over and over, I think we can all assume we know from whence and for whom you speak.
On behalf of Emeryville, PLEASE STOP MAKING EVERYTHING ABOUT YOU and your truly hopeless effort to compete with the EvilleEye.
Every social issue isn’t an opportunity for you to try to gather a few more readers or pursue your political agenda. THE WORLD IS NOT ABOUT YOU. This article covers an important issue that does not directly involve you or your street. Your efforts to make it about you is about as privileged and obnoxious as it gets.
And yes, it’s perfectly possible to hold these two “mixed” views at the same time:
#1 “teens should not mob rob stores”
#2 “shopkeepers shouldn’t yell racist epithets even if they do”
Many of the readers this site attracts can’t imagine there’s another way of seeing the world. Other ways of seeing constitute the very definition of ‘otherness’ and that’s catnip for conservatives. And so they react emotionally, lashing out in anger. This kind of xenophobia is embodied in conservative thought (if you can call it that). Here at the E’Ville Eye, the conservatives can’t imagine there could be any legitimate thought beyond their conservative dogma and so when they come across it, in addition to what they see as illegitimate ideas, they also see something truly rare if not unique. In their world, the Tattler has no readers and anyone expressing progressive ideas must therefore be its Editor. The world of these conservatives is dark, dreary and filled with fear and rage. I’m here to inform E’Ville Eye readers there’s at least two progressives reading the Tattler. Sorry to rock your world so.
You haven’t rocked anyone’s world. You are trolling.
First you are arguing AGAINST “mixed” views on a topic. Now you are arguing that the readers here would be surprised there ARE “mixed” views on a topic. If you’re going to troll, at least troll with a little consistency. You’re making trolls look bad.
Your goal, as it has been for a month, is to steer a conversation about a community issue (in this case, racism) toward an EvilleEye versus Tattler fight.
Now you’ve managed to get all confused and can’t decide if you are in favor of a wide range of ideas or just one set.
I’m sure it’s helpful to you and whatever political axe you are grinding. Very progressive too! Distracting from a conversation about racism toward an old white guy’s blog readership is a great way to help the world.
Your desire is clearly to cast the readers of the EvilleEye as “conservatives” and the readers of the Tattler as “progressive” when the opposite is actually true. It was ludicrous the first time you trolled the site with it. It was ludicrous the second. And the third. It’s just tiresome and stupid.
Little hint for you: The site reporting on racism in the community: progressive. The site fighting the development of housing to protect the trees on one street: conservative.
I will grant you one thing. At least one of the EvilleEye’s readers is kind of an ass. That he distracts from actual, real, in-the-flesh racism to turn the subject to himself and his political/personal agenda makes him fairly despicable.
To the Editor-
You and your readers can’t seem to help constantly bringing up the Tattler, your readers explicitly and you by extension (owing to your fear of using the ’T’ word aloud) whenever criticism of the E’Ville Eye is raised. It’s an indication of TDS (Tattler Derangement Syndrome) and you should be made aware of this problem. The Tattler is everywhere for TDS sufferers, just under the surface, seeping into everything, coloring their world and making normal human interaction nigh impossible. It has taken away your ability to hear criticism and with it the possibility of your site from being a true community resource.
Troll, troll, troll your boat,
Gently down the stream,
Contrarily, contrarily, contrarily, contrarily,
Life is but a meme.
Maxine Butler says:
Once again, the art of deflection hiding behind the mask of political correctness. I am an older African-American citizen who is more pained by the spirit of ruthless, mob-style lawlessness amongst our youth that is being allowed to go unchecked. I agree racial slurring in response to the alleged crime is wrong, however, that does not excuse the behavior of the alleged thieves. Theft is theft. Before the community takes to the streets in protest, stop and consider what component needs to be removed from the equation. Sin was the impetus that can only be remedied by the saving grace of Jesus. Parents: Proverbs 19:18 says: Chasten your son while there is hope. There is no hope outside of Christ. He is our only hope.
Angel Lyn says:
I am more concerned with the groups of teens who steal from the various businesses at Bay Street. This should be the focus, not a deragory term used by the owner. I’ve seen a laptop stolen while someone was working on it at Barnes & Nobel Cafe, the same group of kids stole a phone out of someone’s hands as they walked thru the center. I work locally and see one particular group of teens being disrespectful to the community. Due to the reduced punishments for thefts under a specific dollar amount, the kids get a ticket if caught. I don’t know if the same kids were involved in this incident. Regardless, they need to be the focus, not the person who was harassed by the kids. Their parents need to teach them respect. I will be buying from Cornology today as their team members just experienced a poor workplace experience and deserve support over the kids who caused the problem.
And now we have readers at this site clamoring to patronized this racist’s store. E’Ville Eye readers will flock to this guy’s place in solidarity against those scary dark skinned children. My case now rests for any moderates that may occasionally land on this site. This is the conservative news site for Emeryville.
Carol Wyatt says:
BOTH ISSUES should be a concern….however,not defending minority teens but having been a minority teen that never went to jail but having shop-lifted…many teens, of all demographics, shoplift. He should focus on his security and work on his hate speech because he’s not making a target of himself for doing what he did. Unfortunately, this is spreading like wild fire
Curtis Walters says:
I used to work over in Emeryville for Trader Joe’s and there is a group of BM’s used to come around and terrorize the place .now I understand that he shouldn’t have use that tone or language but those little wannabes should get what they deserve. regardless they should not be taking things that don’t belong to them and if you don’t agree with me just name a time and place, and I will tell you about yourself . Yes, I happened to be black and I’m from the south. The parents are responsible, so if something happen to them then it’s everyone else’s fault . Back then the village cared. But the village is gone. Raise your dam kids to keep their hands off peoples belongings. Right is right. Wrong is wrong!!
The village still cares. We just forgot how to speak up.
You spoke up. Carol spoke up. Maxine spoke up. Thanks for that.
Maybe we’ll remember.
Max Cadji says:
I would suggest you read the eye witness account of the person who took the picture. She does not tell it this way, rather that the young people were profiled and harassed and then responded with a disruption. That is the account of the women who posted the original facebook message
That account differs dramatically from the shopkeepers eyewitness report to the police. So either the account of the woman suggesting the boycott is inaccurate or misleading, the shopkeeper’s account to the police is inaccurat or misleading, or the truth is somewhere in between.
Or possibly both are accurate.
A very large number of teens enters the store, the shopkeeper tells them he can’t have that many people in the store, the kids overreact, the shopkeeper overreacts, and it escalates.
Kevin Smith says:
Actions speak louder than words. The theft is ignored and the words are the sole focus. No wonder race relations will never improve.
So the main take away from this incident is: it’s ok the steal if you’re black and someone lets the n-word slip.
Sorry…two wrongs don’t make a right. We, as adults, must take a high road and the owner/manager (or whomever) didn’t. Lead by example!
And, I say that as a white”conservative”, apparently.
Needless to say, yelling racist things is never ok. But for context, below are “notable event” incident reports from EPD.
These are ONLY the incidents at Bay Street, ONLY the “notable events”, ONLY the incidents involving juveniles, and ONLY the incidents from January.
“Officers on the Bay Street mall detail were on the platform just above the
courtyard. The officers heard screaming coming from the ground level and went
downstairs. They saw several subjects running and being chased by a
victim. The victim yelled to the officers that the subjects running stole her
purse. Officers detained two out of the four suspects. Officers attempted to locate
the victim’s purse and the outstanding suspects and could not locate
them. Officers spoke to the victim and she said the suspects attacked her from
behind. The suspects threw a drink at the victim and started to beat her. The
victim dropped her purse and one of the suspects picked it up and ran. The two
detained subjects were positively identified as the suspects by witnesses and the
victim. The juvenile suspects were placed under arrest. The suspects were
transported to Juvenile Hall on robbery charges. The victim suffered minor
injuries.”
“Officers responded to a robbery call at Barnes and Noble. Several juveniles stole
a victim’s cellular phone and took off running. The victim chased after the
suspects. A Good Samaritan chased after the suspect with the cellular phone
and was able to get the phone back. The male juveniles then proceeded to attack
the Good Samaritan. An officer arrived on scene and witnessed the juveniles
beating up the Good Samaritan. The officer ordered the juveniles to the ground
and they took off running. The officer was able to chased down one of the
suspects and take him into custody. The Good Samaritan told officers that one of
the suspects was armed with a gun in the waistband. Officers attempted to locate
the outstanding juveniles and could not find them. The juvenile was booked into
Juvenile Hall.”
“Officers responded to the Bay Street mall for about 100 juveniles running around
the mall causing a disturbance. A fight was reported inside Barnes and Noble.
One employee was injured trying to break up the fight. Officers arrived in the
area and monitored the juveniles who left Bay Street. There were reports of the
juveniles possessing a taser. The juveniles went from the Hyatt House, back to
Bay Street and then to the Courtyard by Marriott. Officers contacted the staff at
the Marriott to learn the juveniles went to several rooms for parties. Officers
assisted the staff with evicting the occupants out of the hotel rooms. Officers
returned to Bay Street and met with the Barnes and Noble employee. The
employee requested a report for documentation only. Officers continued to
monitor the Bay Street Mall and surrounding businesses until the area was clear.”
“On two separate occasions officers responded to the Bay Street mall for 40-50
juveniles after security officers wanted the juveniles to leave the property.”
“Officers were detailed to the Bay Street Mall on a report of a fight that occurred.
Security requested assistance with asking several juveniles to leave the mall.
The two involved participants from the fight reportedly left prior to the officers’
arrival. A group of 50-60 juveniles congregated near the open common area
where the disturbance occurred and left upon the request of security when
officers arrived.”
To think calling these harmless angel babies names could scar them for life.
Emeryville conservatives on the other hand will burn in hell, right?
The issue is that this is a hard problem to solve that involves tracking down parents, working with the schools and the police, fighting back against the natural tendencies of teens to be unruly, and demanding/coercing a higher standard of behavior. It is the basic battle that parents and teens have waged since the beginning of time. It’s hard and requires persistent, strong willed pressure from adults to prevent kids from doing stupid things. It requires a community that is confident they can impose a common denominator of behavior on every young person regardless of race, that they can say “no, you can’t rob stores and get a pass if someone shouts something racist at you afterward”.
A far easier but entirely useless approach to the issue is to go on TV, blame rampant systemic racism, and do a photo op saying how progressive you are. Ignoring why the shopkeeper was yelling, ignoring the behavior that led to the incident lowers the bar. It guarantees that parents and the community will never be able to reign in teen behavior.
All I can think of reading this is all the black parents I know who would tell their teen in no uncertain terms, “yeah he’s a damn racist, but if you don’t want someone to call you the n***** word, don’t rob the damn store, and don’t give any damn fool an excuse for being a racist”.
The most racist thing being done in this community is not the shop owner shouting a racist word after being robbed again. It’s the mayor using black kids as a tool and lowering the bar for children of color just to promote his political career.
There are a lot of black parents who would like white adults to stop telling their unruly teens that everything they do is society’s fault. It’s revealing that many of the messages on this board from black adults are the ones saying “yes, the racism is bad, but there is a bigger problem when groups of black teens are behaving like this. we need to address BOTH problems.”
We do need to address both problems. And the mayor might want to remember that next time he’s trying to find a camera to stand in front of.
Well it worked for Kamala Harris and Gavin Newsome so why the hell won’t it work for Bauters?
Martínez had MWO.
Pretty sure Medina will get her bite at the apple too.
When they’ve all moved on in 5 years pretty sure these same impressionable kids will be holding you up at gun point as you get home from work. And you’ll still be a racist conservative and at fault.
Easy solutions don’t age well.
After the layoffs, the robberies, the shootings, the lost youth, the homeless on every sidewalk, and the needles and human waste on every corner, the stories of progressive paradise start to grow a little old.
If you’re going to sell people a load of goods, you need to be first to market.
If Mayor Bauters really wanted to make a difference in those kids’ lives, he’d help them get jobs at Bay Street and put them on the right track in life. Oh wait, he’s one of those $15 minimum wage guys that doesn’t think this impacts teen employment despite the empirical evidence. Nevermind!
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Kickstarter Rewards have Started Shipping!
Geschreven door Jonathan op 12 augustus 2013 .
Today marks an important milestone for the OpenShot Kickstarter campaign, many of the rewards have started shipping, and many of you should receive a tracking # via email (in the next 48 hours). Others will receive your tracking # later this week. Worst case, you won't receive a tracking # via email, but your package will still be shipped, so no worries.
What Will You Get?
Based on your reward level, you will receive one of the following (assuming you did not opt-out of receiving a package):
Certificate + USB Flash Drive
Certificate + USB Flash Drive + T-Shirt
NOTE: The digital rewards, such as vector logos and 3D animations, will be delivered with the final release of OpenShot 2.0, scheduled for December 2013.
Challenges of Reward Fulfillment
As many Kickstarter projects before me have discovered, fulfilling rewards is an intense process, that takes way more time than you would ever imagine. For example, the logistics of preparing & shipping packages to 40+ countries (postage, customs, different languages & character sets), coordinating multiple vendors, etc... can be overwhelming at times, and prevents you from working on the primary goal of the Kickstarter project.
So, in other words, I will be super excited to complete this phase of the project, and re-focus on the programming tasks... which I am much more skilled at. So, thank you for your patience during this phase of the project, and hopefully these rewards will actual arrive at your houses in the next 10 to 14 days. =)
List of Countries that have Shipped:
The following countries have been dropped off at the United States Postal Service (USPS) for shipping:
The only country not shipped yet is the USA, which is scheduled to ship later this week (probably Thursday).
Library Update, Documentation, and Examples
Distributed Editing, Rewards, and More!
OpenShot Kickstarter Reaches 65% of Goal!
OpenShot Launches Kickstarter Campaign!
Follow OpenShot on Facebook!
Ubuntu UK Podcast talks about OpenShot!
USB Flash Drive Giveaway for Best Ideas!
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Walmart, Target shares tumble as Amazon announces one-day shipping for Prime members
Lauren Thomas
CNBC April 26, 2019
Amazon is making one-day shipping the standard for all Prime members.
The move will put pressure on retailers like Walmart and Target to respond and spend more money to make sure they can meet shoppers' delivery expectations.
Target and Walmart shares are tumbling Friday, following Amazon's announcement.
As if promising two-day delivery wasn't enough, Amazon AMZN just raised the bar for retailers across the U.S. — chiefly Walmart WMT and Target TGT — to offer even faster and cheaper shipping for online purchases. Or to lean into their bricks-and-mortar stores, something Amazon can't do, even more.
The e-commerce company announced Thursday that it will be making one-day shipping the standard for all Amazon Prime members, expecting to spend $800 million during the second quarter of this year to improve its warehouses and delivery infrastructures to make this possible.
Target shares were down more than 6% Friday morning. Walmart shares tumbled 2.5%.
With more than 100 million paying Prime members across the country, it's estimated Amazon reaches more than 50% of U.S. households today, and growing. And so the impact of its move toward an even speedier shipping option is going to be substantial. This means more and more consumers are going to get used to having whatever they order on the internet show up at their doorsteps in 24 hours or less. Walmart and Target are going to need to make sure they meet these changing expectations.
Already, nearly 40% of consumers want online orders to arrive in two days, free of charge, according to a survey by the National Retail Federation of about 3,000 U.S. adults from Oct. 23 through Nov. 30 of last year. Twenty-nine percent of people said they didn't complete a purchase online after finding out two-day shipping wasn't free.
"Just as Amazon did with Prime 2-day delivery 14 years ago, we see a broad-based 1-day shipping offering increasing consumer e-commerce expectations (essentially more people will get used to 1 day vs. 2 day shipping … and grow to expect 1-day shipping)," Morgan Stanley analyst Brian Nowak said in a research note.
"This, in our view, is likely to cause other brands, manufacturers, retailers, and logistics companies to have to invest more aggressively to compete with Amazon and its differentiated delivery," he added. "The cost to compete within e-commerce continues to rise."
While Walmart and Target don't break out for Wall Street how much money they spend on shipping and related expenses each year, we know those costs have eaten into profit margins and continue to do so. And investors have punished Walmart and Target, at least in the near term, for having to spend more money to compete.
Walmart in January 2017 started offering free two-day shipping on orders totaling more than $35, dropping its minimum purchase threshold, which had been $50 up until then. And it bought Jet.com for $3 billion in 2016 as another bid to juice its online business and compete with Amazon, but also to be able to reach shoppers in bigger cities in a faster window of time.
Target, meanwhile, in March 2018 made free two-day shipping available for all of its credit card holders, with no minimum purchase requirement. For all other Target shoppers, two-day shipping comes free with a minimum online order of $35. The company had lowered its purchase threshold to $25 from $50 in 2015, but raised it back to $35 in 2017. And on the acquisition front, Target acquired same-day delivery platform Shipt for $550 million in 2017, allowing it to get to customers in bigger cities like New York in under 24 hours.
A Target spokesperson told CNBC:
"Today, Target guests have numerous ways to shop same-day and receive their purchases within hours. We have a range of options that make shopping easy and convenient, including our in-store shopping experience and delivery from Shipt in nearly 250 markets. Our Drive Up service is at more than 1100 stores and Order Pickup services at all 1850 stores – both free, no-membership-required services."
Walmart declined to comment.
"While margins have been pressured ... now [Walmart and Target] have a much more sophisticated supply chain," Stacey Widlitz, president of SW Retail Advisors, said. "It's been paying off," because same-store sales have continued to climb at these retailers, she said. "The real issue is when you get to the holidays. ... That's when people will be saying, 'Oh my God, I need this same day or in one day.'"
To be sure, Walmart, Target and many of Amazon's other rivals like Best Buy BBY , Kohl's KSS and Home Depot HD are increasingly touting their buy online, pick up in store options. And that's something Amazon hasn't been able to match at scale, without a far-reaching network of bricks-and-mortar locations like these other companies.
There's evidence more and more shoppers are turning to this option, too.
Target this past holiday season said the amount of online orders it fulfilled through either in-store pickup or its curbside pickup service was up 60% from a year ago and accounted for roughly 25% of online sales during November and December.
A recent, April survey from Coresight Research found 46% of online shoppers in the U.S. had collected at least one of their online orders from a bricks-and-mortar store within the past 12 months. Coresight said Walmart and Target are the two most popular U.S. retailers for buying online and picking up in store, followed by Best Buy and Home Depot.
— CNBC's Courtney Reagan contributed to this reporting.
More From CNBC
Starbucks CEO calls Chinese rivals' use of discounts unsustainable
Activists pressuring Bed Bath & Beyond detail plan to create value
Wall Street analysts rave about Amazon's one-day delivery push: 'Game-changing'
Manchester United and Chelsea transfer target Boubakary Soumare open to summer move
How can we create a workforce full of lifelong learners?
How the gaming industry is changing across the world
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Tag Archives: leaves
Fresh from the Market: Dinner at Fulton
It’s pretty understandable that a city of millions could create a diverse food ecosystem, ranging from the micro-focused tiny shops like Bantam Bagels or Potatopia, to the restaurant empires of Danny Meyer and Mario Batali. There’s a lot of middle ground between those two poles, and I’ll admit the food nerd in me enjoys discovering the oft understated links between restaurants, especially when I find a relationship between two places I like. For example, did you know that The Smith is owned by Corner Table Restaurants, the same group behind the Greenwich Village restaurant Jane? Or that the mini-chain Five Napkin Burger was born out of the popularity of the eponymous dish on the menu at the Upper West Side’s Nice Matin? Sometimes connecting the dining dots in NYC reads like an exercise in genealogy.
I bring this up because of a recent dinner at Fulton, a seafood restaurant in my neighborhood. It turns out the restaurant is owned by Joe Guerrera, the man behind the Citarella gourmet markets. In fact, Fulton is right around the corner from the UES location, sitting just off 75th and 3rd. With such proximity to the famed seafood market (not to mention a name that nods to an even more storied market downtown), a fish-forward dinner at Fulton seemed like a no-brainer for my Baltimorean parents and their genetically brine-inclined daughter.
Outside looking in at Fulton, with heatlamps primed to help you forget the chilly fall air.
Fulton has a classic, somewhat old-fashioned feel to it, evoking the stately taverns and older steakhouses I’ve dined at in New York. It was an unusually cold fall evening, so the heat lamps were on throughout the outdoor seating. Inside the decor is a mix of exposed brick, dark wood, and white walls decorated with charcoal scenes of fish markets. A sizable bar takes up a third of the restaurant as you enter; the rest of the space furnished with wooden two and four-tops and a banquet lining the back wall. My father lamented the modern trend of foregoing tablecloths, which Fulton ascribes to. I agree that it can add an extra bit of class to a meal, but a tablecloth can also reveal the unfortunate consequences of my klutzy dining habits (providing me with any sort of crusty bread yields a Pollock-esque scattering of crumbs around my butter plate).
The interior of Fulton is reminiscent of a classic American tavern, but nary a tablecloth in sight.
The staff at Fulton is very friendly, from the bussers constantly refilling our water glasses, to the waiters who happily answered our questions and gave advice on all three courses of our dinner. I was especially impressed when a passing server, noticing that my father had accidentally dropped his napkin on the floor, picked up the napkin immediately, and instead of just handing it back to my dad, gave him a brand new clean one as a replacement. It’s those small moments of thoughtful considerate behavior that really speak to the quality of a restaurant’s staff.
Our tin drum of bread, with long rolls simply begging for a dunk in olive oil.
Our meal started with an ample bread “basket” (aka tin bucket), filled with a variety of rolls and seeded mini-baguettes and served with a small bowl of olive oil. A sampler at heart, I always appreciate being given multiple bread options, and both the rolls and the olive oil were fresh (presumably sourced from Citarella next door).
Although I occasionally hem and haw over several enticing menu options, at Fulton I quickly zeroed in on my order. My mother and I split the Brussel Leaf Salad to start, while my father opted out of an appetizer. For mains, my mother chose the Whole Branzino, my father the Fulton Burger, and I got the Black Sea Bass. Never one to object to some additional sides, we selected the Lobster Hash and the Crab Mashed Potatoes, on the suggestion of our server. To round out our healthy meal, we all split the Cookie Monster dessert.
The Brussel Leaf Salad, visually appealing but in practice a little hard to eat.
I’m not sure where I stand on split appetizer plating. On the one hand, it’s very considerate of the restaurant to divide the appetizer onto separate plates and ostensibly remove the issue of each person getting an equal portion. On the other hand, however, in some cases this leads to a modified dining experience, as ingredients are not always apportioned correctly. Unfortunately, the Brussel Leaf Salad (hazelnut-crusted goat cheese, caramelized pear) falls into the latter category. The dish was very artfully plated in distinct sections, the shredded brussels sprouts leaves in a small pile that was dusted with chopped hazelnuts, with a small globe of nut-encrusted goat cheese and a fan of caramelized pear slices on the side. While for the most part it was a fair split, the share of chopped hazelnuts was way more heavily weighted to my mother’s portion, and she was kind enough to switch with me, knowing I’m more of a hazelnut fan than she is. I found the salad very pretty to look at, but I’m one of those people who is always frustrated when served a salad that necessitates the diner to finish putting it together. (Don’t give me a pile of lettuce with a barely sliced chicken breast an assorted ingredients on top — if I’m at a restaurant, I don’t think it’s an unreasonable expectation to have my salad come pre-tossed.) Since the ball of goat cheese arrived somewhat chilled, it required a good deal of dexterity to combine the brussels leaves, a bit of hazelnut, pear, and a slice of cheese and achieve the full flavor combination intended for the dish. I enjoyed the mix of textures, and although I found the brussels a little underdressed, I thought overall it was a satisfactory appetizer, if slightly overshadowed by the rest of my meal. I think if I went back to Fulton, I would just give in and go for a full on fish meal, choosing the scallop appetizer instead.
The Whole Branzino, carefully filleted as requested.
As the name implies, the Whole Branzino is usually served whole, complete with head and bones, but when my mother requested it pre-guillotined, our waiter offered to serve it already filleted. The dish came with two small bowls, one filled with lemon slices, and the other with a seasoning blend (my mom chose not to use it, so I’m not sure what it was composed of). The bite I had was well-cooked and elegantly plated, but my mother found it a little plain (perhaps our server should have told us how to use the side-seasonings), and in need of some sort of greenery. Our decision to have solely starchy sides probably didn’t help matters, but at least she had some of the salad that came with my father’s entree.
The Fulton Burger, an inventive take on the crab cake model.
Fulton actually has two items called “burger” on its menu — the traditional beef-based cheeseburger, and the eponymous Fulton Burger (swordfish, black cod, sea trout), a patty of diced fish served hamburger style on a brioche bun with greens and a citrus aioli. I’d never heard of this type of sandwich before, but it made sense considering the meatier texture of swordfish as a foundation. The cod and trout kept the patty from being too dense, and the bit I had reminded me of a crab cake (the broiled, not fried kind). There was a strong fish flavor that made sure you knew this was not your average beef-alternative burger, and I thought rounding the dish out with a small salad rather than fries helped to maintain the lighter, more refined aesthetic.
The Black Sea Bass — my favorite dish of the night, from flavor to texture to composition.
My gut feeling about the merits of the Black Sea Bass (gnocchi, asparagus, mushrooms) ended up working very much in my gut’s favor. I chose it largely because of the accompanying sides — three of my menu compulsions, especially the gnocchi. It ended up exceeding my expectations — two tender, flaky fillets of bass with crispy skins on top, sitting on a bed of petite sliced button mushrooms that were rich and savory, along with starchy nuggets of gnocchi and sliced asparagus. Everything was cooked to the perfect texture: just a bit of snap to the asparagus, wonderfully tender mushrooms, buttery fish flesh that melted on my tongue, and the chewy but far from rubbery feel of the pasta. There was a light but milky sauce on the bottom of the dish which tied it all together. From the picture it might seem like accompaniments were a little sparse, but actually I thought the proportions of the dish kept the fish as the center of attention while providing some highlights with just the right amount of sides.
The Lobster Hash — basically an extreme sports version of Lobster Benedict.
Speaking of sides, I couldn’t help but be reminded of my steakhouse adventures at Peter Luger. It seems like Fulton ascribes to the classic steakhouse dinner model where your side orders add no nutritional value to your meal, but God are they decadent and worth a place at the table. Rich doesn’t even begin to describe the Lobster Hash, a mish-mash of claw and tail meat, sliced baby potatoes, pearl onions and gravy covered in a bearnaise sauce. It verges on ridiculous to relegate this to a side dish — it easily could have been an entree by itself. As with the rest of the seafood, the lobster was unbelievably fresh, combined with the gravy and bearnaise I couldn’t help but think of a creamy lobster bisque. I generally find whole pearl onions to be a bit overpowering, but in this case their sharp flavor helped to brighten the heaviness of the other components.
The Crab Mashed Potatoes — flying slightly more under-the-radar.
The Crab Mashed Potatoes were a more subtle side dish. Mashed has always been my least favorite potato preparation (I miss the crunch of the skin you get in roasted, smashed, or french-fried), but Fulton gets props for how smooth and creamy our dish was (I don’t want to think about the amount of butter in them). The crab flavoring was very mild, to the point that my mother struggled to taste it. I think it definitely could have been more strongly crabby, but the faint hints of crab and old-bay flavors were enough variety to elevate Fulton’s take on mashed potatoes above the traditional preparation for me.
The Cookie Monster — as its namesake warns, definitely a “sometimes food,” but a damn delicious one at that.
Now with a name like the Cookie Monster (Warm Chocolate Chip Cookie, Vanilla, Chocolate, Strawberry Ice Cream), you might think that I was insistent from the get-go about ordering this dessert. But please let the record show that my parents were the driving forces behind this choice, trumpeting said dish over the pedestrian Molten Chocolate Cake or Triple Layer Chocolate Fudge Cake (either of which I would have been more than happy with). But as luck would have it, the Cookie Monster is pretty damn appetizing, too. It took a while to arrive — to the point where we stopped our waiter to check on the status — but it proved worth the wait when the dish showed up with a clearly fresh-baked cookie on it. The dessert was plated with a soft, gooey and warm chocolate chip cookie base, then covered in three scoops of ice cream, a mountain of whipped cream and hot fudge, a tuille of white chocolate, and a scattering of fresh raspberries on the side. It was a marvelous contrast of temperatures and textures, like any good sundae should be. Granted, it was nothing too outrageous or inventive, but there’s a wonderful nostalgia to the good ol’ Tollhouse familiarity of the cookie and the fresh ice cream that was not too icy or soft, solid in execution if not of the showstopping quality of some of my recent gelato forays. Most importantly, did we clean that plate? Yes, yes we did. For all the quibbling over richness of chocolate and butterfat, truthfully, my parents and I just straight up love cookies and ice cream, and if you’re down wiith that, then Fulton will happily oblige.
Overall, Fulton seems to be the sort of restaurant where a little background info or recommendations is the key to a good meal. The ties to Citarella (visible to the point of the doggy-bags — see below) make sure the quality of raw materials is high, but a standout dish is more than just the individual components. Go for items that have more of an obvious chef’s hand in them — the ones with a more visible flavor profile, more built-out accompaniments, or some sort of interesting twist in conception (such as the Fulton Burger). The truth is, you’re going to be better off getting a whole branzino at a great Italian restaurant than here. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, hop a subway downtown, but with its good service, comforting desserts, and fresh ingredients from next door, Fulton provides a nice, slightly upscale neighborhood restaurant for the seafood-inclined, and is worth a visit if you’re sticking around the UES.
Our doggy bag for the evening.
205 E. 75th St (between 2nd and 3rd)
http://www.fultonnyc.com/
Standard | Posted in Review | Tagged addiction, asparagus, baking, bar, beef, benedict, black sea bass, blog, blogging, branzino, bread, brussels, brussels sprouts, burger, Butter, cheese, chocolate, chocolate chip, chocolate chip cookie, Citarella, Cookies, cooking, crab, cuisine, Danny Meyer, dessert, dining, dinner, drinks, eating, Experimental Gastronomy, fish, food, French, fries, fulton, fulton fish market, gnocchi, goat, goat cheese, gourmet, hamburger, hash, hazelnu, hazelnuts, hot fudge, Ice Cream, Jane, leaf, leaves, lobster, love affair, Manhattan, Mario Batali, market, mashed, mashed potatoes, mushroom, mushrooms, New York, peter luger, potato, restaurant, review, roasted, salad, scallop, scallops, sea bass, seafood, steak, steakhouse, strawberry, sugar, sweet, sweets, swordfish, The Smith, trout, UES, Upper East Side, vanilla, vegetables, whipped cream | 2 Comments
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Adelaide schoolgirl, 15, and stepfather confirmed dead in New Zealand White Island volcano
Tragedy as Australian schoolgirl, 15, and her stepfather are confirmed dead in volcano eruption – after her mother was found alive in a New Zealand hospital
By Daily Mail Australia Reporter
An Australian schoolgirl and her stepfather are confirmed dead in the New Zealand volcano disaster that has killed at least six people.
Zoe Hosking, 15, and Gavin Dallow were on a tour of White Island on Monday with the girl’s mother Lisa Hosking when the eruption started.
Ms Hosking was injured but her husband and daughter were killed, bringing the number of Australians confirmed dead to four with many others still missing.
Distraught family had clung to the small hope the pair made it off the island and were recovering with her, but learned the terrible news on Wednesday afternoon.
‘We mourn the loss of Gavin and Zoe. Gavin was a wonderful son and brother,’ a family spokesperson said in a statement.
‘We’ll miss him at the cricket and we’ll miss him at the football. He was a generous man, always helping his family and his community.
Lawyer Gavin Dallow, 53, his wife Lisa Hosking (both right) 48, and her daughter Zoe Hosking (left) 15, were all on a cruise holiday which included an optional walking tour of the volcano when it erupted. Lisa has been found alive but critically injured, while Gavin and Zoe both died
‘Our hearts break at the loss of Zoe at such a young age.
‘We know her loss will also devastate her school community and the local Girl Guides, of which she was an active member.
‘The Dallow family is extremely thankful for the support from relatives, Rotary, the local church community and the broader community.
‘We would also like to acknowledge the assistance received from DFAT , emergency services and the very understanding New Zealand Police.’
Zoe and her father both died in Monday’s disaster
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Environmentally Embedded Homes: Paradise Regained?
Mill Valley Cabin
Feldman Architecture's Mill Valley Cabins, situated about 15 miles north of San Francisco, are environmentally sound and beautifully designed rural retreats. Feldman prioritise their strong connection between construction and landscape, physically building their wonderful cabins into the sides of the hills.
All of the homes have 'green roofs' made from grass and earth. From a bird’s eye point of view, they are camouflaged into the natural environment. Inevitably, all architects have to build within a natural environment. But few strive to build alongside nature, incorporating the landscape into their vision or, rather, using it as the very first building block.
In order to reduce the impact on the surrounding habitat, Feldman have created houses that have been built with sustainable materials, use green technologies and are energy efficient. The interior of the cabins is ergonomically designed with a minimalist elegance: tranquillity is the central ethos.
Feldman Architecture
The notion that your surroundings have an impact on your psychological and physical wellbeing is old news. The claustrophobia that is sometimes felt in urban environments is inordinate and also mostly ignored – an over-used cliché, but nonetheless true. Mill Valley Cabins try to provide a modern solution/illusion to ‘re-connecting’ with nature, creating a 21st century idyll: all the urban amenities in the Californian forest. Bear Grylls and Thoreau may turn their overgrown noses up at this fantasy hybrid, but Feldman’s conflation of the rural and the urban is ingenious.
Why should one sacrifice the comforting buzz of the Nespresso machine for the sound of a woodpecker? They need not be mutually exclusive. I, for one, get very nervous anywhere outside of the M25, like my ‘country walks’ to be within easy reach of a tube station and consider camping a form of light torture. Nevertheless, I find that being amongst nature brings an unadulterated pleasure to the eye and can have a healthy humbling effect. Feldman are continuing in the long tradition of architects whose main challenge has been to create a harmony between nature and culture, that age-old battle.
The Austrian artist and architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser (1928-2000) created notoriously assymetrical, irregular designs using the shapes and contours found in nature as inspiration. He believed that human misery was the result of sterile and monotonous architecture and so tried to fight against it by using an aresnal of bright colours, spontaneous vegetation and natural building materials. Hundertwasser even made an incineration plant and sludge centre in Japan look like a work of art.
The architect wanted his buildings to have a symbiotic and organic relationship with their inhabitants. His 'Hundertwasserhaus' in Vienna has rolling floors – in his own words, “an uneven floor is a melody to the feet”, – as well as a 'green roof' covered in grass and soil, and trees growing inside the apartment block itself: an extreme manifestation of a romantic aesthetic. His houses bring the outdoors inside. Hundertwasser even declined payment for his 'Hundertwasserhaus', as he believed that its being built had prevented something “ugly” being built in its place, and that this was payment enough.
Incineration plant, Osaka, Japan
The original architect-artist hybrid was Antoni Guadi (1852 – 1926). Much of his work can be seen in Barcelona, namely: the famous Sagrada Familia, Park Guëll, La Pedrera, and Casa Batlló. His work has a dreamscape quality to it and feels more like interactive art than architecture. Far from feeling as though you have entered into the midst of high (i.e. untouchable) art, you can lounge on the brightly coloured tiles that cover the vast main terrace of Park Guëll and gaze at Barcelona through the rooftop sculptures in La Pedrera.
La Pedrera rooftop
Gaudí was also passionate about incorporating nature into his architecture: he carefully studied patterns in nature – the design of leaves and honeycomb – to create intricate architectual structures. Although he was designing work long before any 'environmentally friendly' ethos really existed, he introduced new techniques such as trencadís, a type of mosaic that is made up of waste ceramic pieces, which can be found all around Park Güell.
Sagrada Familia ceiling
Whether it is possible to create complete harmony between nature and civilization or not, the striving for this aim has created and continues to create architectural spaces to which the word ‘buildings’ does litte credit.
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The Falcons Lose A Heartbreaker In OT Against Conference Rival WAU Shock
Washington Adventist
Washington Adventist (6-1-0, 1-0-0) 1 1 1 3
Fisher (6-4-1, 0-1-0) 1 1 0 2
1st - 19:35 - Thiago Moreira (Washington Adventist)
1st - 25:08 - Andree Molina (Fisher)
2nd - 54:42 - Pedro Wagner (Fisher)
2nd - 83:40 - Mario Zelaya (Washington Adventist)
OT - 92:17 - Daniel Moreira (Washington Adventist)
A: Gianfranco Castillon - 2
Sh: Daniel Moreira - 7
Sv: Shawn McGuire - 5
Sh: Steven Jagba - 2
Sv: Christopher Garcia - 7
Medford, MA- On Monday evening the Men's Soccer team squared off against AII Conference rival, Washington Adventist University Shock (6-1), and it was everything a soccer fan could hope for. Right from the start the tempers flared and the tension was tight as each team were vying for a post season berth into the AII Conference playoffs. Ninety minutes of regulation time was not enough to decide as the two teams finished 2-2. But just two minutes into the first OT, WAU's Gianfranco Castillon crossed a pass across the box to find Daniel Moreira who found his way through the Fisher defense to knock it home for the 3-2 OT win. The loss brings the Falcons record to 6-4-1 overall, while the Shock improves to 6-1.
The game started slow offensively for both teams as neither could test the keepers out of the gate. There were only two shots through the first 15 minutes of play, both belonging to the Shock but neither could find their way past Falcons keeper Christopher Garcia (Rowland Heights, CA). In the 19th minute, the Shock found a way as the Moreira trio worked together to make it a 1-0 game. It started with a Daniel Moreira shot that sailed right and out of bounds, but on the goal kick the Shock kept in their zone and Lucas Moreira passed it to Thiago Moreira who knocked it home for the early lead. Andree Molina (El Paso, TX), changed that just five minutes later when he dribbled his way through Shock defenders to loft a shot over Shock's keeper Shawn McGuire to quickly tie it right back up 1-1. Both teams had chances before halftime to score, with Falcons best chance off a Joel Bailey (Derrider, LA) open look, but McGuire punched it over the crossbar to keep the teams knotted heading into the break.
They physical play continued into the second half as six yellow cards were issued over the last 60 minutes of play, both teams eager to come away with the win. The two teams traded shots on goal in the first few minutes of play in the second half, but a WAU foul would give the Falcons a free kick just outside of the box. Fisher's Pedro Wagner (Porto Alegre, Brazil) booted it high and to the right, out of the reach of McGuire to put his team up 2-1 at the 54:42 mark, and giving him his second goal of the season. Just minutes later the Falcons had a chance to take a two-goal edge with Jonathan Collins (Southwick, MA) and Kervens Surpris (Pompano Beach, FL) putting a pair of shots on goal, but McGuire grabbed them both to keep it a 2-1 game. Garcia was key down the stretch for the Falcons, coming up with four flashy saves to keep his team up with ten minutes left on the clock. It looked like the Falcons would pull it out, but the Shock's Mario Zelaya tied the game with six minutes left in regulation, finishing a deflected shot from Castillon to make it a 2-2 contest. The Shock had another scoring chance in the last few minutes of regulation but could not capitalize and the two teams headed to OT.
The Shock wasted no time in OT and were able to score just 2:17 into the period as Castillon earned his second assist of the game by sending one across the goal for Moreira to finish and claiming the hard-earned 3-2 victory. Steven Jagba (Boston, MA) led the Falcons in shots while Garcia made seven saves in the losing effort. Daniel Moreira led the Shock with seven shots, while McGuire earned the victory collecting five saves.
Fisher returns to the pitch on Wednesday evening when they play host to the Becker College Hawks who are 1-9 this season.
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Board index ‹ NarniaWeb Community Forums ‹ Ditto Town
Ditto Fountain II: A New Beginning
Home of chat, writing, and role-play.
Moderators: stargazer, Lady Arwen, Ryadian
1138 posts • Page 68 of 72 • 1 ... 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72
Re: Ditto Fountain II: A New Beginning
by Dernhelm_of_Rohan » Jan 02, 2013 12:11 am
Overdoms
Lalien had just begun drawing figures on the ground with her staff when the rain suddenly stopped - she no longer heard it hitting the ground. Now it seemed to be father away... As if there was some sort of very large umbrella over the whole castle. She felt a cold and far-off magic that she guessed belonged to the Overlady.
So the Lady was a wizard, too. Just as well. She would set up the wards in case. That dark power she had felt would not merely be limited to chemical rain, she was sure. Waving her left hand, she dismissed her umbrella of water, which splashed to the ground and left a large puddle. Carefully, she traced a rough circle on the stones of the courtyard of the Ivory and Gold Tower. A sort of rich purple mist drifted low to the ground, marking the place her staff had touched. Inside the circle, she drew a crescent moon and three stars, then a long wavy figure along the sides that might have been a vine. Counting out her steps, she drew two letters beside the circle before speaking a long sentence of words that jumbled into each other and seemed to have very few vowels.
The purple mist flashed golden, then sped towards the walls of the castle. Carefully, like a bird settling down on it's nest, the mist encircled the whole castle, hovering at the base of the walls.
Lalien smiled. Although she could not see the results of her work, she could feel the magic protection it now afforded the castle's inhabitants. The Lady would be pleased, she thought.
Founding Keeper of the Secret Magic
Dernhelm_of_Rohan
Location: Crickhollow, Buckland
by Bookwyrm » Jan 02, 2013 12:26 am
"An ice shield has formed over the Castle, Sir. The mutant abominations are unable to penetrate," Pilot said.
"A minor setback. Unleash the flame-spitting wyvern-bears. Strong enough to smash through the ice, plus they can fly and spit fireballs. Escalation is a glorious thing."
Lord of the Little Ponies
by Melian_Maia » Jan 12, 2013 5:34 pm
Lia was still skipping with her shiny sword when she heard her Overlady's voice. "LIA! BE A DARLING AND GET THOSE LAST FEW ANIMALS IN!" it shouted from somewhere way up high.
Lia looked up and saw Lady A at the very top of the watchtower. She saluted and sheathed her sword. "Here, leetle animals," she called whilst clapping her hands. "Time for some lovely cappuccinos." Once she had a merry band of animals following, she led them past the gates of the castle and into the courtyard. "What good little creatures," she said as she poured them bowls of coffee.
The Side Effect
Ten months before the outbreak. . .
"The Lord gives and the Lord takes away," said the minister, holding his Bible. "We're here today to celebrate the life of a young man who was taken from us long before his time. Mike Robison was a good kid. Loved his parents and sister and pets. Never missed a Sunday service in his life." His voice droned on as he listed the good attributes of the dead boy.
Tate never heard a word of it. She was focused on the coffin. It was closed, due mostly to the fact that he was too cut up from the accident and partially because her mother couldn't bear to look at her youngest child and know that he was dead. Tate thought that that was a halfway selfish reason for keeping the casket closed, but it wasn't her choice and deep down she felt the same way. Her hand had been squeezed in a comforting way more times than she could count and she was beginning to smell like old lady perfume from all of the hugs she had received.
She fidgeted with the edge of her skirt and stared at the ground as the service came to an end. They were going to lower the coffin now. She had to escape before everyone saw her breakdown and cry.
So Tate Robison ran.
Three weeks before the outbreak. . .
"It's not the end of the world, Tate," said Sadie King, pushing her curly hair over her shoulder and leaning forward into the table. "You've gotta get out of this funk you've been in since everything with Mike. You're depressed. Get out and do something fun. Go, I don't know, shoot something if that makes you feel better."
Tate took a sip of her coffee and made a face at her friend. "I don't need to do anything. And I'm not depressed."
Sadie rolled her eyes and banged her head on the top of the table. "You're so stubborn," she said, voice muffled by her hair. "Just admit that you haven't been the same since Mike died."
"Fine," Tate said angrily. "I haven't been okay since my little brother got killed by a drunk driver and I didn't get to say goodbye. I'm kinda doing my best to hold it together most days." She stood up abruptly and pushed her chair in. "Maybe you're right. I do need to go shooting."
Draco Dormien Nunquam Titillandus
Minion to Lady A and Booky ⎮ NW sister to Ela, Mountie, and Rose.
Braintriplet to Narnia_Fan12 and narnianerd
Team Hoodie! ⎮ Secret Order of the Swoosh
avatar by Lady Courage
Melian_Maia
by narnianerd » Jan 12, 2013 7:22 pm
The Side Affect
When they had briefed him, they had informed him that his target was a senator. They also had clued him on on his target being a female. What he hadn't been briefed in on was that she was attractive. Not to mention the fact that she was a single-mom with two kids.
"This job is freaking brutal." He muttered, it wasn't fun. Ruining families, but it paid good."
Colton Edward Ryker was looking down the 3x20 power scope of his FN SCAR-H Long Barrel. The combat rifle fired a 7.62×51mm round. It was more powerful than the standard military ammunition and he liked that. Anything that put more lead down range was a plus to Ryker. That was also the reason that the magazine held a total of twenty bullets, not that he ever planned to use the whole clip.
His local? Well he was in Shelby, the capitol city of Ford. Ward was perched atop a billboard, his subject was nearly a mile away and approaching her car with a stroller containing two small children. "I'm sorry, me childer."
The Pear is his cargo-pocket began buzzing and in response Colt reached down and pulled out the smart-phone. "'ello?"
"Sir, this is Wilson. The NAH just jumped up ten points and I've got a broker here who wants advice."
"Listen up you gobdaw, this isn't really a good time- hold up! The NAH started climbing? Tell him to buy, I think they hit bottom. Thats savage! Heck, buy me thirty percent." Meanwhile, his target had put her children in the car and was walking to the driver door. This was his chance. Colton took a breath, exhaled and stopped halfway through. Then he slowly and smoothly squeezed the trigger. This set off a series of reactions, eventually ending in a firing pin smashing through a small steel wall and into a tiny amount of explosives.
"Congratulations Mr. Ryker, you are now a minority owner in NAH."
you had me at meah
narnianerd
Assisstant Lord of the Little Ponies
Location: No-whereville
by PrinceCor004 » Jan 12, 2013 9:10 pm
"No, no! That's the remake! Why on earth would you want to watch that one??"
POW! THUD!
"O.K, the original is the one starring Harold Lance and Vivian Yearwood. It's kinda tame on the gore by todays standards, but it has a strong story and the acting is great. Also, miss Yearwood isn't too shabby on the eyes..."
POW! POW!
".. oh and Christopher Milan's score is excellent. Much better than that droning garbage HackSign pulled together for the remake."
After informing his friend of the differences of the two "The Apex" films, Richard McTiernan laid aside the pistol he had been using to shoot the targets at the end of the field.
It was a good day to be at the shooting range. The weather was surprisingly mild for this time of year and Rick sorely needed an excuse to "go shoot a monkey" as he jokingly called it. The morning shift at the store had not been kind to him today. Rachel, the fiery and very attractive redhead daughter of Mr. Collins, had tried getting him fired... again. Something about Rick "putting his moves" on her or something plus being a lousy employee. All lies and thankfully Mr. Collins knew this. Still, it was frustrating to say the least.
"You do have an accent that drives the girls mild, ya know." Bart teased as the two friends headed back to the cafe on the grounds.
"Heh, Sarah gives me a hard time about that already. She wants to know how come I have a "cool accent" and she's stuck with a typical Shelby accent." Rick chuckled slightly as they neared the small cafe.
Avvie by the great Djaq!
http://bennettsreviews.blogspot.com/
^ Short tribute to James Horner (1953-2015)
PrinceCor004
Soundtrack Man of SO
Location: A land of film scores....
Blood of the Sword
It had been a long road to get to where he was now. From the time he had left Camelot at age seven, he’d gone through a never-ending process of change. When he started out on this path to knight-hood he’d been a child, who’d been drug off to strange new world. The castle Joyous Guard, home to Lancelot Du Lac, the greatest knight who’d ever lived. Or so the scribes said, but to Gabriel Adrian Pendragon he was Master Lance. To Gabe, Lance was everything, a mentor, teacher, friend and above all a father-figure.
That’s why it was hard to look into the King’s face and connect that image to the words 'dad'. In the past, Arthur had been someone he saw on occasion, at feasts, tournaments and other such events while Lancelot had always been there, teaching, training and instructing the young man in the ways of the world.
“Kneel, my son.” Ordered Arthur, so that is precisely what Gabriel did. He’d become a knight in just a second, it’d been his lifelong goal. But at the same time, it was a change he wasn’t sure that he was ready for. For after he was knighted, he’d be thrust back into a world he hadn’t known since childhood. The world of a Prince, that’s what the knighting was really about. It wasn’t about the young Pendragon becoming a knight; it was about him having to switch his families.
“Do you swear to speak only the truth?”
“Do you swear always to be loyal to your lord?”
… The list went on, until the King reached a particularly funny promise which then proceeded to utter, lacing it with mirth.
“Do you swear to always defend a lady, except when she is defending you?”
Chuckles went out across the crowd. The story of Galahad had once saving the Prince was well known by now and was a source of giggles for everyone. Except for Gabe, he was rather embarrassed by the whole thing.
Well then! By the power invested in me, by God and my forefathers. I dub thee a knight,” with those words Arthur unsheathed Excalibur and touched Gabriel’s shoulders with the regal sword. “Rise Sir Pendragon, Knight of Camelot.”
Sir Gabriel Adrian Pendragon stood, a knight and a prince. Ready for the former but not at all prepared to be the later.
by MountainFireflower » Jan 18, 2013 7:37 pm
It was happening. Gabe’s knighthood was happening, right now, and there was nothing Blair could do to stop it.
She knew the proper response would be to be happy for her older brother, to congratulate him and rejoice with him. But she couldn’t. Because right now, he was getting everything she ever wanted.
She watched as Arthur told Gabe to kneel, a hint of a smile crinkling the corners of his eyes. And there was admiration hidden in his gaze as well as a smile. How much had she wanted to see the same look of pride that Arthur bestowed upon her brother now?
She sat forward in her uncomfortable wooden chair, gripping the armrests. She was ready to make a run for it, but was stopped by her mother’s hand on her arm. Queen Guinevere gave Blair a slight shake of her head. Blair could read her mother’s disapproval in her expression. No. Wait.
Blair bit her lip and sat back, watching Gabe’s knighthood play out in front of her.
“Kneel, my son.”
A collection of pretentious words followed; King Arthur asked if Gabe would swear to do various things, and Gabe agreed.
She zoned out until the crowd burst into a chorus of chuckles. Blair rolled her eyes. Oh, yes. The illustrious Galahad, saving her brother’s life. Blair had only heard that story a million times.
And then, in a rush of events that Blair was powerless to stop, Arthur withdrew his sword from his sheath. “Well then! By the power invested in me, by God and my forefathers. I dub thee a knight.” He pressed the flat of his blade against both shoulders, and tears of shock and frustration burned at Blair’s eyes. It was over. It was done.
“Ladies and gentlemen, there will be a banquet directly following the ceremony. Please give us some time to set up the tables, and then we will adjourn to the banquet hall,” Arthur announced.
The crowd started buzzing and milling about the room. Blair whooshed out a breath and stood. Finally, she was free. She turned towards the door.
“Blair.” Guinevere’s voice was low, her voice stern. “Aren’t you going to congratulate your brother?”
Blair turned back around and held her head high, trying to keep her voice even. “Congratulations, Gabe. I hope you wear your knighthood well.” And according to just about everyone, better than I would.
She let out another pent up breath and then walked to the left side of the throne room, exiting into a narrow hall. She glanced on either side of her. Good, no one was around. Here, in this hall, was the only chance that she had to let out her emotions. All other times, she would be forced to fake happiness for her beloved older brother. She leaned against the wall, closing her eyes and breathing deeply.
Blair felt numb to her core. She had been hoping that by some miracle this knighthood would not occur, but it had. A few tears slipped down her cheeks. For everyone else, this was a great gain. Who wouldn’t want Gabe to protect their kingdom? But years and years of training and swordplay and trying to prove herself to her father had shattered in this moment. No one in this kingdom knew how much Blair had lost.
“Looking forward to the roast mutton?”
Blair jumped, wiping the tears off her cheeks. It was Gawain. “Yes. Yes, I am.”
Gawain stepped through the door to her left and onto the stone floor. “I hear that the cook is making honey cakes.” He leaned against the wall next to Blair, folding his arms. “I’m going to be expected to escort you, you know.”
Blair dropped her eyes to her feet, gritting her teeth. “I know.”
“The banquet hall’s almost ready.”
“Really?” Blair asked, her tone completely monotone.
“I believe so. Your father’s men work fast.” Gawain extended his arm to her, and she reluctantly grasped it. “Shall we?”
They started walking down the hall, and Gawain looked at her. “Are you ready for the announcement?”
As if the knighthood wasn’t enough, tonight was the night that Blair’s betrothal would be announced to the entire kingdom. She held her head high, pondering a response. “Of course I’m ready,” she said, her tone icy, even though she wasn’t ready at all.
They reached the door to the banquet hall and Blair’s heart sunk. She briefly thought of running away, but she couldn’t. She had to fulfill the expectations set before her, no matter what the sacrifice. No matter how much she hated it.
av by dot
MountainFireflower
Location: Where dreams and faith collide
by Dernhelm_of_Rohan » Jan 18, 2013 7:56 pm
Galahad du Lac stood near the front of the crowded hall in Camelot Castle, dressed in her finest court clothes of blue and green, and beamed at her best friend Prince Gabriel Pendragon. She had known him since he was seven and she was six, and seeing him now achieving everything he had dreamed about, she felt she might burst with pride for him. The two were best friends and had been so since his squireship to her father began. Though a full year younger than he, she had always followed his example in the knightly arts as far and fast as she could, learning to wield mace and lance, ride a charger and run the tilt.
"Do you swear to always defend a lady, except when she is defending you?”
King Arthur's query turned her smile into a smirk for a moment, and a ripple of quiet laughter made it's way through the hall. They all knew the story. It was nearly six months since the hunting of the wild boar that had nearly killed her and Gabriel; six months since she had saved Gabe's life and been named the first female knight of the three realms. She thought she detected a wince of embarrassment from the prince, but since he was facing his father and not her, it was impossible to be sure.
A moment later, though, as King Arthur smiled, lifted his sword and called his son a true knight of Camelot, Gabe stood proud and straight. Despite the solemnity of the moment, Galahad felt she would like to erupt in cheers. Such an act would, of course, have shamed her in the eyes of the king, so she kept her jubilant spirits controlled. Just wait till they break out the ale; then I'll hurrah with the best of them, she thought as Gabe turned to face the crowd. She looked past him to the wooden thrones behind the King and the Prince, where Queen Guinevere and Princess Blair sat. Galahad rolled her eyes at the princess's not-so-subtle look of jealousy.
Weakling, she thought in disgust. If she wants to be knighted so badly, let her put in all the hard work that Gabe and I have!
As the courtiers, guests and servants broke their formation and began milling about the room, Galahad pressed forward to congratulate her friend. But there were so many waiting to do just the same thing that she hardly got a word in edgewise. She tossed her head in annoyance, but couldn't help thinking that Gabe looked really splendid tonight. Most of the time, she didn't think of him as a prince - he was Gabe, her best friend, her fellow dreamer and confidant. But tonight, he looked like a Pendragon.
Galahad felt a slight pang as she realized he would no longer be living at her home, Joyous Guard; he would have duties of his own now and they could never again be so nearly brother and sister. She brushed the thought away. This was a celebration, and her temprament was not made for unhappiness.
A page announced that the dining hall was nearly ready and Galahad walked as quickly as was possible while still maintaining her dignity. She was going to try for a seat near the royal family, and given her standing in the kingdom, that did not seem so impossible. She wanted only to be near enough to laugh with Gabe, punch him in the shoulder and perhaps - oh, if it could be so! - to hear King Arthur speak and even have him address her. She smiled at the thought and searched for a seat near the royal dais.
As the courtiers, guests and sundry tramped into the dining hall, a splendid hunting hound slipped away from the grasp of a servant and ducked under the immense table. No doubt the dog was merely looking for the scraps that would fall during the long feast that was to commence, as any dog might. But keen eyes might have noticed that there was a strange light of intelligence in the hound's eye, as if waiting for something more.
Gawain pushed the door open and Blair followed him, feeling glued to his side due to the rule demanding she hold onto his arm. She wished she could have a little more independence than she was granted in this instance. And if this was the way things would be with Gawain all the time, heaven help her. No, heaven help Gawain, since Blair felt she may very well snap one of these days.
Together the two of them crossed the threshold into the banquet hall, and she scanned the room. Tables had been placed; the royal dais was at the forefront. The rest of the tables filled the rest of the large expanse in five long rows. White tablecloths, red and yellow cloth napkins, her mother’s prized crystal goblets. Overall, fit for a king. Or a knight.
The hall was empty, except for…
“Galahad,” Blair said, her voice strained. The girl, Gabe’s best friend and the first female knight of Camelot, stood by the royal dais, searching for a seat.
“Lovely to see you,” Gawain smoothly took over, inclining his head slightly. Perhaps his congenial manner would be an asset in the coming days; it would certainly keep Blair from having to say too much. Just the way Blair liked it. That was possibly the only up-side to this betrothal.
Blair surveyed Galahad, the one who had been promoted to knighthood six months ago. Galahad had practically had her knighthood handed to her because of a lucky incident where she saved Gabe’s life. Blair, on the other hand, had been training for knighthood for two years, and her father still refused to recognize her abilities as valid.
Even her dress was a sign that Galahad was more free than Blair. A deep green dress over blue leggings. Leggings were not permitted for princesses to wear in court, and instead Blair was burdened with a “glorious” white dress, as her mother put it.
Galahad was also wearing her boots, the ones with dragons etched into the leather. Catching sight of them made a memory flash across Blair’s mind, since Galahad had been wearing them the day she saved Gabe’s life.
Blair had been hacking away at a pillar of wood, trying to build up her strength, when the news arrived. The hunting party had ridden through the gates, bearing tales and laud of the praise-worthy deed Galahad had committed. Covered in sweat and dirt and grime from her efforts to prove herself, Blair had to watch as Galahad was greeted by her father and hugged. Hugged! His words of praise echoed in her mind, making her even angrier. She had been striving so hard to earn approval from her father and king, and yet Galahad received them with hardly any effort and a random stroke of luck.
The knighting of Galahad was not much easier to stomach. The irritation at the event was only rivaled by the anger she felt over Gabe’s knighting. Both of them were knights now. Even worse.
She doesn’t deserve the title, Blair thought, anger burning in her chest. Have her prove it!
Sir Gawain led her to the royal dais and sat down on the end. “I assume this is your seat?”
Blair nodded. As always. She sat down, and then directed an icy smile to Galahad. “I’m not sure if there’s room for you on the dais. You might have to sit with the peasants.”
As Galahad wavered over a choice of seats - this one was too far from the king, this one was too near and felt presumptive - she heard one of the side doors open and turned to see Sir Gawain of Lothian walk in with Princess Blair on his arm.
Typical, Galahad thought, gazing at the princess's fantastical white dress that seemed as if faëries had stitched it. Whenever she walks into the room, she has to make everyone else feel ugly. Her own green dress seemed plain and unflattering all of a sudden.
“Galahad,” Blair said flatly.
"Your Highness," Galahad replied as she always did, her tone somehow twisting the title into an insult.
“Lovely to see you,” Gawain said politely, inclining his head slightly.
Young du Lac bore no ill-will to the courteous knight, and smiled back at him, curtsying slightly out of deference for the knight's superior rank. "And the same to you, Sir Gawain."
Gawain turned his attention back to the princess and gestured at one of the chairs placed at the high table. “I assume this is your seat?”
Blair nodded. She sat down, and then directed an icy smile to Galahad. “I’m not sure if there’s room for you on the dais. You might have to sit with the peasants.”
Galahad's face went white with anger. The insult was clearly leveled at her mother, who had been a Saxon. Galahad's own flaxen hair was a clear indication of the mixed blood that flowed through her veins. She met Blair's cold smile with a dark frown. "Fortunately, this night is not a celebration of your knighthood; it's for your brother. And seeing as Gabe was my father's squire, I have no doubt I will be invited to sit at your Highness's table, however much it may soil your gown to sit with the daughter of the greatest knight in the three realms."
With a defiant flip of her yellow braid, Galahad quickly slid into a chair mid-way between the King's seat and the end of the table. With a smug look, she clicked her silver spurs against each other - spurs were a symbol of knighthood and the honor of the wearer. That was something Blair would never wear, for all her fine trinkets and jewels.
Blair watched as all the color drained out of Galahad’s face, something that filled her with smug satisfaction. That satisfaction quickly evaporated as soon as the poisoned words flew out of Galahad’s mouth. “Fortunately, this night is not a celebration of your knighthood; it’s for your brother. And seeing as Gabe was my father’s squire, I have no doubt I will be invited to sit at your Highness’s table, however much it may soil your gown to sit with the daughter of the greatest knight in the three realms.”
Blair’s jaw dropped open for just a moment, but then she closed her mouth in a firm line. Anger laced through her tone—not an angry explosive anger, but an icy, reserved anger, which was almost far worse. “Do not insult my father in such a manner; he is the king and far better than you or your father. And don’t you dare speak to me about knighthood. You are hardly qualified to speak on such a subject after having yours served to you on a silver platter.”
Blair swallowed hard and turned back to the table, glancing vaguely at the draperies on the opposite wall.
by narnianerd » Jan 18, 2013 10:29 pm
After his knighting and while people were filing out of the great hall, Gabe got a good forearm hand-shake from his father, “I’ve got something to give you Gabe. But right now, you should go say hello to your mother, I think she’s about to hyperventilate.”
It’d been years since he’d done it, she’d always been ‘queen’ and he’d always had to respect her like a subject. But now, she was mom and he gave her a great big hug. “I will do nothing of the sort, young man. So don’t let your father worry you, besides if I pass out now I’ll miss the party!”
“Hah. She never misses a chance to get at the mead, why don’t we get you out of the ridicules cape, Eh son?”
Gabriel removed his head from where it was buried in his mother’s mass of raven dark hair and nodded. The huge red cloak that Lancelot insisted on him wearing had been choking him throughout the entire ceremony. “Hey, what happened to Blair?”
His sister, not a year younger than him and yet he never really had gotten to know her. Her’s was another face that he would have to connect with a new label. Galahad was his sister if not in blood than in dirt and sweat. He and Lancelot’s daughter grew up together, fought together and fought with one another. That’s what made siblings, not blood.
“Oh, I’m not exactly sure what she’s doing. But she ran off in quite a huff,” said the mother once they had arrived back in the royal solar. That’s a bedchamber for those who don’t know the jargon. Gabe unhooked the cloak and handed it to his mother, who put it away for later.
Meanwhile, Arthur was digging through a wardrobe. He then proceeded to stumble out carrying a long, sheathed dagger. “Son, this was your grandfathers and I’d like you to have it.”
The king handed his son the blade and the son received it as a knight would. “Thank you, my king.” But Guinevere would have none of it, “Gabriel, If I ever here you call your father that again, I’ll wash your mouth out with soup.”
Arthur laughed, “You still don’t get the whole rank thing, do you?”
“No! Now Gabe, I’m sure you want to catch up with your sister. She’ll be down in the great hall, I’ve got some things to do up here, so if you want to make your way down there that’d be fine."
Gabe took his leave, strapped his father’s knife to his belt and headed straight for the great hall.
When he arrived, there was Blair alright, there was also Galahad and they both were staring bolts of lightning towards each other.
“eh, hello?”
by MountainFireflower » Jan 18, 2013 10:54 pm
Blair snatched her gaze away from the tapestries to see Gabe standing in the doorway. Ah, lucky her—now she had to deal with two people she absolutely despised.
“Eh, hello?” Gabe’s voice echoed through the chamber, seeming lone and tiny in comparison to the expansive dining hall.
She swallowed hard and slightly inclined her head, keeping her tone distant. “Gabe. The illustrious knight.” If one listened closely, one could hear the pain in her voice. She gestured to the decadent banquet hall around them, a slight edge of subtle sarcasm in her tone. “Welcome. You’d better enjoy this banquet. Mother and Father are going to a great expense for you.”
Gabe was a good listener. He heard the pain, he also heard bitterness and anger and he immediately knew this wasn’t going to be a happy family reunion. “It does seem to be quite expensive, but I didn’t ask for this. Blair.” He walked up to the Diaz, continuing to talk on the way. “And I can assure you, I am most grateful.”
He reached across the table to shake Gawain’s hand. They had met before, on several occasions and he knew him to be a good knight, “Sir, its good to see you doing well.” He was saving Galahad for last, the two had come to Camelot together earlier that day. But he was sure that she would be impatiently waiting on him.
by Dernhelm_of_Rohan » Jan 18, 2013 11:32 pm
Hot fury flooded her veins. How dare this simpering prissy princess accuse her of not earning her rank?! She had not been "given" anything - it had been years of dedication and toil that led up to the moment when Gabe was in danger. "Had my knighthood handed to--"
"Eh, hello?" a familiar voice interrupted.
Galahad saw Gabe enter a moment after Blair did. Her blood cooled at the sight of him and she smiled, genuinely pleased. He had taken off the stifling red cloak and looked much more like himself now, like the friend she had shoved into the watering trough only last week.
Blair's voice cut in again, smooth and cold. "Welcome. You’d better enjoy this banquet. Mother and Father are going to a great expense for you.”
Galahad's hand twitched angrily, fingering the hilt of the ceremonial sword she wore at her belt. She was about to fling back a heated remark when Gabe spoke in a much more mild tone.
"It does seem to be quite expensive, but I didn’t ask for this, Blair.” He began a slow, measured walk to the dais, his expression firm and collected. "And I can assure you, I am most grateful.” He greeted Gawain in a polite manner, shaking hands and enquiring after his health before turning to face Galahad.
She grinned broadly, slipping out of her chair and sliding across the table in a most unlady-like manner to greet him, shoving plates and goblets to the side as she did so. "Gabe!" She held her hand out and the two performed several mirrored motions that could only be described as a secret handshake. She took the opportunity to whisper in his ear, "Don't mind her; she's only a snub-nosed twit." As she pulled away, she added more clearly, "I'm so happy for you. You deserve every bit of how much this feast costs, considering how hard you've trained. My father says you'll be an even greater warrior than Uther Pendragon."
As she spoke, she flung a meaningful glance at Blair, as if to say, "Gabe is more my brother than he ever was yours". Judging by the look on her face, Blair did not care much who's brother he was.
Gabe’s response was not as angry as Blair expected it to be, and his kindness took her off guard, nearly making her drop her icy emotional mask. “It does seem to be quite expensive, but I didn’t ask for this. Blair. And I can assure you, I am most grateful.”
Of course you didn’t ask for it. Our parents showered it upon you. Not me.
It was then that Galahad flounced over to her brother and whispered something in his ear. Heaven only knew what snide remark she’d made about Blair in secret. But that didn’t trouble her as much as the look Galahad gave her afterwards, a look that proved that Galahad was most closer to Gabe than she was. The weight of the loss she’d sustained by having Gabe away all these years hit her like a slap in the face. Yes, she hated him for all he’d attained, but he was still her brother, her blood relation. The brother she’d once fought with wooden swords and made pillow forts with. It was only now that she allowed herself to realize how much she missed the bond they’d once had.
Blair’s heart ached so badly over this that she could not bring herself to respond, to either Gabe or Galahad. She just tried to swallow past the lump in her throat and keep her outward appearance as normal as possible, even though she was breaking inside.
Gawain stared at the ceiling during Galahad and Blair’s exchange. He didn’t feel like it was his place to intrude. Unless Blair grabbed a candlestick and started swinging it—then he’d most definitely intrude.
Marrying her is bound to be interesting, he thought dryly.
He was glad for the intrusion of Gabe and welcomed it wholeheartedly. He slid his chair away from the table and stood to greet the new knight. “And you as well, Gabe—congratulations on your knighthood.”
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Board index Philosophical Discussion General Philosophical Discussion
Against Caffeine
For all things philosophical.
henry quirk
havin' my third cup of the day as I post this
Post by henry quirk » Fri Sep 08, 2017 2:31 pm
Gloom,
How do you reconcile (anarcho) individualism with (green, local democratic) communitarianism?
One emphasizes one over many while the other does just the opposite.
Re: Against Caffeine
Post by Walker » Sat Sep 09, 2017 2:44 pm
Individualism is apartness, not overness.
Off the grid, not necessarily controlling the communal grid.
Gloominary
Post by Gloominary » Sat Sep 09, 2017 7:08 pm
...But Suck, you don't have any evidence, even by your standards.
Apparently, there are no, official, scientific studies (dis)proving caffeine intoxication is dangerous and furthermore, you haven't proved the police and the courts even have the means to determine whether someone's DUI charge was the result of caffeine intoxication, that caffeine intoxication has even been legally defined, and that they could convict them without referencing scientific studies since there aren't any, and even if they could convict them without referencing scientific studies, without scientific studies, on what grounds would they be convicting them?
On unscientific grounds?
If the police rarely or never, have or employ breathalyzers/blood tests to determine whether someone has caffeine intoxication, if there isn't even a working definition of what caffeine intoxication is, and if the courts can't convict someone without referencing official scientific studies, than regardless of whether millions of people crashed their cars due to caffeine intox, or 1 or none, it would be a forgone conclusion no one would be convicted, and so not actually proof of anything, and even if they could convict them, whether they actually did or didn't, it wouldn't be on official scientific grounds, and so then according to you, moot.
So your argument then is circular, and meaningless.
Sir-Sister-of-Suck
Post by Sir-Sister-of-Suck » Sat Sep 09, 2017 7:41 pm
>Goes on to state opponent needs evidence to back up their (non) claim
>Counters by argument that evidence is not needed for what it is I'm claiming
>Demonstrates how some of what has been shown could be interpreted as evidence via null results, anyway
>Starts right back up, claims that the opponent still needs evidence to back up their (non) claim
>Green texting w/out green text
So you want me to attempt in debunking the claim that police officers would have no way of determining someone's caffeine usage as a factor of their accident? I think first, that's something that needs to be better proven by you. Police don't have any way of determining water intoxication or random dust debris entering your iris as a factor, either - using the very same methods you bring up. What would ever lead anyone to conclude this is a problem which even needs to be looked into?
That's not even a claim you seem to actually agree with, considering you yourself just shared a link attempting to demonstrate they can determine caffeine usage as a factor.
Post by Gloominary » Sun Sep 10, 2017 9:07 pm
Suck: Demonstrates how some of what has been shown could be interpreted as evidence via null results, anyway
It could just as easily be interpreted as: police rarely/never have the means to determine who's driving under the influence of Caffeine, and even if/when they do, they can't charge/convict them, because there's no legal, working definition of caffeine intoxication, and they can't charge/convict them without deferring to scientific studies that don't exist, and so that's why you never hear about it on your news.
And even if you're right and they could charge/convict them, it wouldn't be on your precious official scientific grounds, as there's no official scientific experiments/studies.
So my interpretation cancels your 'null results' interpretation out, leaving you with nothing, no positive, or negative empirical evidence.
Suck: I don't see how this supports the idea that "coffee tricks the (central) nervous system into always wanting more." That seems to me like a pretty complicated and precise neurological question, and one that requires a lot of aided research.
No virtually all recreational stimulants/depressants work the same, there's always temptation for some to go overboard, there's always a withdrawal that can temporarily alleviated by consuming more of the drug.
I would say that the very vast majority of people cannot relate to such a thing. Even when they do, it's not to say they don't have a form of OCD or hypochondria that's mainly perpetuating it.
I was talking about caffeine withdrawal for people who overconsume coffee, in regards to how it could affect driving, among other things.
Nope, I still don't see any proof that "over 4 cups of coffee makes someone too intoxicated to drive".
I"m not claiming they're, 'too', intoxicated to drive, I'm claiming that in all likelihood, after about four cups for the average person, driving becomes increasingly difficult, however great-slight.
I like how you've gone from weakening, and then strengthening up, and now weakened your claim down to "well, they (drugs) tend to taste somewhere between bland and bad". No, that's still not going to work, because this still has counter-examples that I've already been through with you. It's not aligned with the evidence we have for why certain drugs have popularized all over different cultures. You need to provide a more sustainable source that we've been evolutionarily adapted to avoid drugs, and that they generally 'taste bad', then "Well, stick a drug in a baby's mouth and they'll spit it out".
You haven't brought up any exceptions, tobacco and weed smelling good when you burn them is hardly an exception, it feels horrible when you inhale them, I mean wood can smell good when you burn it, but we don't have any temptation to go inhale the smoke, we'd start suffocating.
Drugs usually taste bad and sometimes they taste bland, our senses are indicating they're at best not good and at worst bad, that's a point against them.
Caffeine all by itself tastes bad and is a poison that kills cats, dogs and many other animals, but has a milder effect on humans.
Often seeds contain poisons that taste bad because that's the plants way of protecting its offspring, so you don't swallow them, or if you swallow them, you don't bite into them, allowing them to pass through your digestive tract unabsorbed.
Again, it's not that I trust my senses and instincts 100%, if my intellect and my senses are in conflict, than either I'll compromise with my senses, or when the danger is really apparent, I'll attempt to overrule them, but if my senses are indicating something is very bad, and my intellect doesn't know, or is divided, then I'm inclined to overrule my intellect.
Life and epistemology is holistic and ought to be lived that way, it's about taking data from multiple sources into consideration and weighing them against each other, instead of only relying on one source, presuming the other is completely arbitrary, or bringing up a couple of exceptions to try to disprove the rule.
scientists think sexual attraction evolved to help us select superior mates
...Scientists that you selectively trust.
And science you selectively consider, since you won't consider it here.
I do selectively consider science, but not arbitrarily, as you imagine.
Trusting science 100%, irrespective of assessing their motive, opportunity, history, the quality of their work, whether it aligns with reason and common sense, makes you a kind of science fundamentalist.
And I suppose the existence of cosmetics, porn, gays and lesbians disproves sexuality is rooted in natural selection.
Of course consumpsuality is rooted natural selection, it's just not absolutely rooted in it, nothing is, it's not that we should always trust our senses, it's that we should always consider them.
I was saying you used "Black Coffee" as a basic reduction of the most natural form of caffeine, but my point is that isn't even true. Both the Coffea cherry and the coffee bean could be and were consumed before it was ever made into a drink.
But was the bean itself chewed up and swallowed, and did it taste good' to people not psychologically dependent on it?
You will never seen anything from a naturopath that gets into anything other than a self-published medical journal, which is not the peer review that I speak of, and something anyone can post their work into
But there's no question they do review and criticize each others work on some level, so it's not something God bestowed exclusively to government and mainline academia.
No one in their right mind believes caffeine intoxication is benign, as you do.
"According to you, everyone apparently does. This is in plain contradiction to what you've been arguing for since the start of this thread, that people don't take the effects of caffeine seriously enough."
I said no on in their, right, mind.
Last edited by Gloominary on Sun Sep 10, 2017 9:35 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Re: havin' my third cup of the day as I post this
henry quirk wrote: ↑
While anarcho-individualism and local democratic communitarianism are different in many regards, they have some similarities.
When it comes to big government, the former rejects government altogether, where as the latter partly does.
While the latter is somewhat authoritarian, its authoritarianism is grass roots, local and democratic.
I also don't be believe in throwing people in jail for nonviolent 'offences': if people disrespect the laws, they can just leave.
Both would also be opposed to capitalism, corporatism and big business, property would be restricted to what people can personally use, and there'd be little-no intellectual property.
Of course they can't be fully reconciled, they're just two systems I'm about equally fond of.
thedoc wrote: ↑
Gloominary wrote: ↑
Yep, this persons bad driving had nothing to do with substance abuse. Not all bad driving is due to substance abuse, sometimes it's just stupidity.
Agreed, but stupidity is something you can't help, your substance addiction more-less is.
You can't cure stupidity but you can cure substance abuse, however difficult, and therefore substance abusers should be held more accountable for their actions.
Can you demonstrate that reasonable consumption of caffeine can lead to substance abuse that is impairing to the user? (Note I said reasonable consumption, not extreme consumption of amounts that are not normal).
Caffeine keeps us in a constant, unnatural state of fight/flight.
While that seems to work for some individuals, I argue for humanity as a whole, and for the environment, it's detrimental.
If there's nothing to fight/fight from, what's the point of everyone being in that state all the time?
It's going to lead to people feeling more needy than they'd otherwise feel, causing them to overproduce/consume.
duszek wrote: ↑
In case a no coffee age comes what will happen to the coffee producing farmers in the third world ?
What could they produce instead ?
I am ready to join an unofficial no coffee and no smartphone league.
Even without having read all the material collected and posted by Mr Gloominary.
Don't get me started on cell phone and computer radiation *laughs.
The world needs to re-wild itself, unfortunately there could be some casualties, but it has to happen, civilization isn't at all sustainable at present.
Last edited by Gloominary on Sun Sep 10, 2017 10:28 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Harbal
Contact Harbal
Post by Harbal » Sun Sep 10, 2017 10:04 pm
I wouldn't have let you get started on coffee if it had been up to me.
Post by Sir-Sister-of-Suck » Sun Sep 10, 2017 10:28 pm
We don't have a "legal, working definition" of any drug intoxication except alcohol/Marijuana, as I explained on the first page of this thread. But once again, why assume that caffeinated driving is secretly a problem when this lack of methods could be concealing something like water intoxication as a popular cause for car accidents, as well?
It's not even me who's "right and they could charge/convict them", YOU are the one who shared a link to an attorney's site saying that they could. But if I were to assume that someone was taken in due to a high over-consumption of coffee while driving, I don't think scientific studies showing it's been a problem in the past with driving would need to be used in order to make a case. Such a study wouldn't be needed to convict someone of a DUI under an extremely rare and unknown research chemical either. They just need to show the known results in this particular circumstance, and prove that the caffeine caused these results.
consumpsuality
Frankly, it's very annoying that you've decided to respond to a post I made days ago, despite the fact that you've been online before hand...And actually have been responding to me - in fact - you've already responded to this exact post here but in a different way...To be blunt, it's a bit of a bitch move, and displays a pretty low-level of intellectual integrity. But I guess if you've already hit rock bottom in that department, there's not much I can say to convince you not to do this again.
Let me just go ahead and copy/paste a response I made for you in prediction that you would try and do something like this, as you have in other threads;
...Gloom, you are such a fraud, and it's clear to us all. You have no consistently applicable principles, research, or beliefs. Your insults aren't clever, and far more important than that you're really bad at debate. Just because you have responded to something, does not mean that you've automatically trumped the other person's point, and going off on long wall-o-text tangents where you just shovel the same old unfounded crap that I or someone in this thread has been over with you already, and gave a measured response to, does not suddenly negate all that information that was literally just discussed with you.
You display such a shameless, low-level of intellectual integrity, even in the direct presence of your wrongness, it's quite mind-boggling. It takes such a long time to cipher through your posts, because there's so much objectionable content in them, and you're somewhat aware that there is. Not telling you this just to be mean or anything, but I've grown quite sick of your methods and debate tactics, and I really want you to improve. This whole conversation has been so underwhelming low-brow, that I'm wondering if I should continue in fear of giving you undue credit. You need to realize your mistakes if you wish to have any kind of fitting discussion on a philosophy forum.
I had developed a sort of theory about this methodology you're pulling, that's not something I haven't seen before in online debate. I think you intentionally waited to respond to a comment I made days ago, in between dozens of other posts within the exact same thread - and one that you've already responded to, no less - as an added assurance that your opponent would lose his tract in the conversation and won't comment back so you can get the last word of the discussion, however low of any sustenance the word may be. As such, I'm not going to respond to these ludicrous antics, anymore than I would respond to the same comment over and over again, ironically with a bunch of re-hashed points I've gotten across before which my opponent has already given a response to.
Post by Gloominary » Sun Sep 10, 2017 10:54 pm
Suck: We don't have a "legal, working definition" of any drug intoxication except alcohol/Marijuana, as I explained on the first page of this thread.
Proof?
why assume that caffeinated driving is secretly a problem when this lack of methods could be concealing something like water intoxication as a popular cause for car accidents, as well?
You're repeating yourself, we already covered this at length.
But if I were to assume that someone was taken in due to a high over-consumption of coffee while driving, I don't think scientific studies showing it's been a problem in the past with driving would need to be used in order to make a case.
Such a study wouldn't be needed to convict someone of a DUI under an extremely rare and unknown research chemical either.
Now I'm not saying you're wrong on this, I'm just saying it's also possible that in the case of caffeine (and other substances who's effects are unknown to science, particularly as they pertain to driving), it might be impossible for police to charge/convict anyone without referring/deferring to the science, which, perhaps conveniently, doesn't exist in regards to caffeine, a substance billions of people consume, and many millions of people abuse, on the road and elsewhere in North America.
As far as I know, breathalyzers can't detect caffeine, and as for blood tests, perhaps they're rarely able to detect caffeine, or give an indication of how much caffeine had been ingested at the time of the accident/the arrest/they were pulled over.
I don't think I really do have to prove it, because the claim that there isnt a set limit on anything other than marijuana and alcohol isn't a claim you seemed to have any contentions with back when I made the claim here, in fact it was a claim you worked off of.
I don't believe you actually have addressed the concern of 'not being able to analysis water intoxication' just as you 'can't analyse caffeine intoxication', yet. I mean, we've discussed your concerns with water intoxication in my analogical comparisons to caffeinated driving, but not in regards to the ability to scan for it specifically, and why you don't think it can be related.
You want me to prove...an assumption that you're having me assume? Or do you want me to prove that not all drugs which people have been arrested under suspicions of a DUI have had driving-related studies on them?
That the police department doesn't need studies on a drug's effect on driving to determine if a DUI can be charged to you, or that research chemicals which have no studies in general, can get you arrested with a DUI?
Well, I mean, there's no breathalyzers testing for water intoxication, or if someone has a consequential amount of dust in their car that could have resulted in a piece of the debris getting in their eyes, either. What leads us to assume that it's an issue which deserves to get looked into? We can't just look into everything.
thedoc
Post by thedoc » Mon Sep 11, 2017 12:23 am
No it doesn't, that is only your projection and not realistic at all. Caffeine tends to relax people and make them less likely to react with fight or flight.
Return to “General Philosophical Discussion”
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HomeAdministrationSenior HUD Official Violates Hatch Act, Dodges Punishment
Senior HUD Official Violates Hatch Act, Dodges Punishment
September 19, 2019 Focus Washington Administration
A senior official at the Department of Housing and Urban Development has been sent a letter of warning by the Special Counsel Office after the violation of the Hatch Act by the use of promoting political statements at her government job, Politico reports.
Nonetheless, the Office of the Special Counsel made a decision not to pursue disciplinary action relating to Lynn Patton’s violations.
According to the Special Counsel office, Patton violated the Hatch Act a total of two times by using her official government account on Twitter – promoting political statements and showing off a red “USA” hat that the Trump campaign sells.
Still, Patton has been cleared of two other alleged violations involving a tweet defending HUD Secretary Ben Carson and her appearance at an oversight hearing featuring Michael Cohen.
“Although OSC concluded that you violated the Hatch Act by unwittingly displaying a campaign hat in your office and ‘liking’ partisan political tweets on your official Twitter account, we have decided not to pursue disciplinary action and are closing our files without further action,” Erica Hamrick, deputy chief of the OSC’s Hatch Act Unit, wrote the a letter to Patton Wednesday, according to Politico.
Patton is the department’s regional administrator for New York and New Jersey.
She has ties to the Trump family dating back to before her appointment, having served as the vice president of the Eric Trump Foundation.
Patton thanked the Office of Special Counsel in an emailed statement to Politico, claiming the office “determined that I did not violate the Hatch Act” based on the two alleged incidents she was cleared of.
She called the incidents she was found to be in violation for “minor infractions.”
“I look forward to continuing to focus on the residents of New York and New Jersey, whose well-being I care about the most,” she added.
The Hill reached out to a HUD spokesperson, but they did not immediately respond to the request for comment.
Trump Blames Beto O’Rourke for Gun Legislation Comments
LUNCHTIME POLITICS: Florida, New Jersey – Biden vs. Warren – Trump Losing to Dems
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medicine Research integrity
Fake data, untouchable men and guilty women at ICR London
With nobody above him, ICR director Paul Workman was seemingly investigating himself, and found two female colleagues guilty of placing fake data into his papers, primarily the ICR emeritus Ann Jackman. One paper was retracted, another received an outrageous correction. The previous ICR CEO, Alan Ashworth, together with his right-hand man Chris Lord, have their own impressive, but hitherto ignored, record on PubPeer.
My previous article covered manipulated western blot data in the papers authored by Paul Workman, president and CEO of the huge Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) in London, part of University of London. It seems now, with nobody being above him, Workman was investigating himself, and found (at the present count) two female colleagues guilty of placing fake data into his papers, primarily the ICR emeritus professor Ann Jackman. One paper was retracted, another received an outrageous correction. There, the paper’s first author, Workman’s former PhD student and now ICR Professor Udai Banerji, laid all the blame with Jackman, and then reproduced the offending western blot in what the journal declared to be reliable manner, so the findings of a paper are not affected despite western blot some unreliable women were accused to have faked.
If this sounds bizarre: ICR’s troubles with research integrity and basic ethics did not start wiht Workman. The previous CEO, who now left for UCSF in USA, Alan Ashworth, and his former right-hand man, since 2017 ICR professor Chris Lord, have their own impressive, but hitherto ignored, common record on PubPeer. Not that anyone cares, after all these are gentlemen.
This is how the research charity ICR wants to cure cancer using your donations. By faking western blots and who knows what other data, and run clinical trials based on this. The ICR men behind that get richer and richer, but will any cancer patients be helped with such rigged research?
Spot the liar! Photo: ICR
The by far worst Workman co-authored paper presented in my article was Sain et al, Molecular Cancer Therapeutics 2006. It was so ridiculously fake that the US publisher, the cancer research society AACR, had no other option but to retract it. Just look at its Figure 6 (there is much more on PubPeer):
This is the retraction notice, published in the journal’s September 2018 issue:
“This article (1) is being retracted at the request of the authors. The work is in two main parts. The first part is a description of the relevant characteristics of the human ovarian cancer cell lines used and an analysis of the efficacy of the combination of the HSP90 inhibitor 17-AAG with paclitaxel and carboplatin. The latter part shows the effect of the single agents and drug combinations on HSP90 client proteins and downstream effectors. All of the experiments in the article were carried out in the laboratory of the senior author A.L. Jackman. It has been brought to our attention that in the second part of the article, Figs. 5A, 5B, 6, 7, and 8 contained inappropriately assembled Western blots. N. Sain performed the experiments and processed the data and has taken primary responsibility for the flawed figures. The authors wish to sincerely apologize to the scientific community and deeply regret any inconveniences or challenges resulting from the publication and subsequent retraction of this article”.
That first author Nivedita Sain doesn’t work at ICR anymore, likely since around a decade. It is not clear how the inquisitors around Workman were able to make her admit her guilt, maybe Sain actually has no clue what she is being accused of. The other woman made responsible for data fraud is ICR emeritus professor Jackman, who never replied to my emails. She did post a comment on PubPeer in February 2018:
“We have noted these comments and are investigating”
The take-home message from this retraction notice: Workman had nothing to do with that paper.
He is however corresponding author on the work by his former PhD student Banerji: Banerji et al, Cancer Chemotherapy and Pharmacology, 2008, and its Figure 2 is utterly fake. But because the paper also features Sain and Jackman as co-authors, this Correction was issued on September 1st:
“The corresponding author of the original article has informed us of concerns about the immunoblots in Fig. 2 which were carried out in the collaborating laboratory of Professor Ann Jackman. The experiment has been replicated twice in the Workman laboratory and the findings remain the same. The authors have provided the original blots and the corrected version for Fig. 2 and this has been included in the latest online HTML and PDF versions of the article. The change does not affect the Figure Legend or main text of the article. The authors regret this error.”
Basically, Banerji was the inquisitor delegated to find the culprits for fake data in his paper (Sain and Jackman), and to replicate the fake results, to find out that the findings “remain the same”. I was joking in my article that the authors will probably go back and reproduce the results from 10 years ago, and this is exactly what they claim to have achieved, faithfully. Except that they didn’t, a PubPeer user demonstrates that the new blot shows quite different results as the previous one:
Left: old fake figure, blamed on Jackson. Right: 10 years later Banerji-newly generated figure, which we must accept as showing exactly same results. Except that it isn’t, eg PubPeer comment: “there is no longer inhibition of HSP70 function at the IC50 concentration of 17-AGG”.
The journal has two editor-in-chief, both men. The one responsible for papers from Europe is Étienne Chatelut, from INSERM in France. I really don’t know anymore, is this a cultural peculiarity for French academics to publicly endorse data manipulation? But blaming it all on female collaborators is a new one for sure.
But maybe Workman was indeed a victim of some fraudulent females? After all, look what trouble the employment of females brought to ICR: Nazneen Rahman resigned as ICR professor after being accused of bullying by no less than 45 of her colleagues and losing her Wellcome Trust funding as the result. Incidentally, Rahman’s former PI and ICR professor Michael Stratton, was accused of bullying himself, in his current position as director of Sanger Institute. It would be interesting to know the full scope of the Rahman scandal, and who exactly led and supervised the ICR investigation into her alleged bullying. After all, we know that Banerji and Workman investigated themselves and found Ann Jackson and Nivedita Sain guilty. ICR is a strange place.
@Lord_Sugar Hear about pioneering cancer research/treatment by @ICRnews & @royalmarsden on #BBCHorizon 9pm tonight: http://t.co/46YeYLU7 RT!
— The ICR (@ICR_London) April 10, 2012
The named person in charge of Workman et al investigation is ICR professor and academic dean Clare Isacke, she of course never replied to my emails. On 13 February she wrote to a colleague, who complained of receiving emails from the data integrity sleuth Clare Francis, as well as this offensive link:
“Meanwhile, yes I am fully aware of the Clare Francis emails and the PubPeer postings and all the allegations either have been or are being fully investigated. I am the ICRs “named person” so am in charge of the investigations”
Maybe Isacke is simply afraid to displease her boss she is supposed to investigate. After all, it is the ICR CEO Workman who makes the final decision in misconduct investigations, as per protocol. And women have to tread carefully at ICR, it seems.
Now, what about Workman’s other papers then, which feature neither Sain nor Jackman? I presented some in my previous article, and these were untainted by their presence. Maybe this is why Isacke and ICR chose to ignore that evidence? Or maybe Workman’s loyal inquisitors are about to smoke out another female saboteur, who knows.
Here another paper from PubPeer, corresponding last author Workman, again on the topic of HSP90 inhibitors: Holmes et al, Cancer Research 2008. The band cloning pattern resembles the one Sain and Jackson were pronounced guilty of.
If this will ever be corrected, we can probably expect Jessica Holmes to admit full responsibility. Which of the many female co-authors will take the fall for Workman’s paper Sharp et al 2007, in the same AACR journal Cancer Research?
And how about this paper, where Workman is merely co-author though, Rayter et al Oncogene 2008?
The last two authors here are Chris Lord and Alan Ashworth. The latter became ICR president in January 2011, and after a brief tenure of mere 3.5 years Ashworth moved in 2014 to San Francisco, California, to head the Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, as Senior Vice President for Cancer Services at UCSF. Not everyone at ICR was sad about Ashworth’s leaving, there were apparently numerous complaints “of all types”, as an inside source indicated, with the hogging a newly bought supercomputer for his own sequencing projects being a minor issue. Let it be said that the alleged bully Rahman used to work in Ashworth’s department. Workman took over the rule over ICR from Ashworth in 2014, and many saw him as a pleasant change from Ashworth, in many respects.
Doing Lord’s work
Lord used to be Ashworth’s postdoc, and he was that excellent in his research under Ashworth, that he was “internally promoted”, i.e., appointed as principal investigator outside of all calls and competition, normally mandated by ICR guidelines. In 2017, Lord was made professor. Maybe he will be now tasked with investigating his own papers? There is certainly plenty to do.
The @Independent have profiled our Prof Alan Ashworth: "Enough of the back slapping, let's find a cure for cancer" – http://t.co/ZTiy9aw1SA
— The ICR (@ICR_London) May 13, 2013
Ashworth’s claim to fame is in having discovered the BRCA2 oncogene. In fact, in his hands (watched over by Lord) the protein BRCA2, when requested by experimental strategy, can even mutate into different proteins, like APRIN. Which kind of proves the papers central claim in the title of Brough et al EMBO J 2012: that “APRIN is a cell cycle specific BRCA2-interacting protein required for genome integrity and a predictor of outcome after chemotherapy in breast cancer“.
Here another duplication from Lord and Ashworth paper, in Iorns et al PLOS One 2009, and the loading control doesn’t match any of the two separate experiments it is made to stand for. Where did it originally come from? Which samples does it really show? Does it matter?
Or look at this interesting study Ashworth and Lord published in Cancer Research 7 years ago: Martin et al 2011. Incidentally, Ashworth is member of the AACR board of directors, which might interfere with this publisher’s investigation of his and likely also his ICR successor Workman’s (other) papers. In that paper, a novel cancer cure approach was established by specific targeting of the enzyme PINK using RNA interference (siRNA), which could be further potentiated by duplicating loading controls!
Of course it is not clear how translatable this loading control duplication is in the clinic, in patients. It works however reliably in other papers by Lord and Ashworth, even between publications showing utterly different cell lines, here Martin et al 2009 and Mendes-Pereira et al 2009, both published in EMBO Molecular Medicine:
Incidentally, Ashworth is EMBO member, which makes the issue of the above 3 papers in EMBO Press even more embarrassing. There is an even more interesting paper by Lord and Ashworth, published as Martin et al 2010 in Cancer Cell, which means this paper is safe from retraction or correction for all eternity, because this is Cell Press. There is plenty on PubPeer, posted already 3 to 5 years ago, and nobody, absolutely nobody cares. Look at this beauty, this is how the authors intended to cure cancer by inhibiting DNA polymerases in vitro while copy-pasting western blot bands in silico:
It’s all just loading controls, innit? Who needs those anyway? It is so cumbersome to fret about loading controls when you achieved your perfect gel image, nicely showing an increase in signal of a certain protein. All you had to accidentally do was to load just a tiny amount more to that well. Or less, if your experimental strategy predicted a decrease of that protein in that sample. It is all perfectly acceptable when you know anyway which results to expect, right? Especially if you work at ICR, where cancer is being daily conquered by superior Englishmen intelligence?
#ICRprofile Prof. Chris Lord (@lordoflard) uses genetic concepts to identify novel treatment approaches for cancer https://t.co/1EMU2TLnGO pic.twitter.com/Qw0YsTuRE8
— The ICR (@ICR_London) December 5, 2017
This is why it is perfectly OK to make up some fake loading control in Photoshop to satisfy some silly publishing criteria and to placate peer reviewers. It’s all illustrations anyway, as ICR scientists explained in that correction above: it is “Figure Legend or main text of the article” which matter. Not the figures.
Hence also this, in the same Martin et al Cancer Cell 2010 paper. If you have an issue with that creative band reuse, try publishing in Cancer Cell yourself, then come back complaining.
Dr Sarah Martin is now senior lecturer at Bart’s Cancer Institute at Queen Mary University London. 3 years ago, a PubPeer user tried to report the issues to the institution, and was dismissed as “a malicious email campaign“. Which means, ICR male elite will have to find another woman to take the blame for that Photoshop creativity.
Professor Lord serves as a member of the Athena SWAN steering group, as we are educated on his website, to advance “the careers of women in science, engineering, technology, maths and medicine through excellent employment practice in higher education“. Maybe Lord learned it from his boss: Ashworth is remembered at ICR for having dedicated much of his attention to women in science. In any case, obviously ICR could not trust a woman with the important task of Athena SWAN.
There is more by Lord and Ashworth on PubPeer, and also by Workman, who as you probably already figured out, is responsible for reacting to investigate his as well as Lord and Ashworth papers. Good luck there. Also, the sheer amount of evidence precludes any meaningful external intervention, otherwise ICR would collapse or at least lose charity donations. Please give generously, it is for a good cause.
Ensure our discoveries deliver a real impact on the lives of cancer patients – please donate today. https://t.co/ZpYDMkVdP8 pic.twitter.com/oQISQ8U2Q5
— The ICR (@ICR_London) August 8, 2018
TagsAlan Ashworth • cancer research • Chris Lord • Clare Francis • data manipulation • Paul Workman • retraction • United Kingdom
49 comments on “Fake data, untouchable men and guilty women at ICR London”
Sarah Martin appears on Pubpeer star separately from Lord and Ashworth:-
As first author.
2008. https://pubpeer.com/publications/2759A34758691741B87D49DFB05C3E
2005. https://pubpeer.com/publications/8E38ECD6759C2479400E4306A749EB
As middle author.
2006. https://pubpeer.com/publications/C961F8BD02A1C6B26EDD0358BEE8FC
The senior author on all 3 papers retracted a 2004 paper in 2015 for data manipulation
https://pubpeer.com/publications/AB503FE52E95FA64E33D8101F419FB
Retraction notice
http://www.jbc.org/content/290/36/22311.full
“This article has been withdrawn by the authors. An investigation conducted at the Roswell Park Cancer Institute determined that the flow cytometry data shown in Fig. 5B had been manipulated.”
https://retractionwatch.com/2015/09/04/investigation-leads-to-retraction-of-breast-cancer-paper-second-for-one-author/
This is in no way meant to diminish the responsibility of Alan Ashworth, or Chris Lord, for their own papers.
Sarah Martin’s official bio confirms lineage.
https://www.bci.qmul.ac.uk/en/staff/item/sarah-martin
“I then moved to a postdoctoral position in the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York to join Dr. Toru Ouchi’s group, where I investigated the role of BRCA1 and its functional binding partners, specifically investigating the regulation of caspase-3 activation by BRCA1 phosphorylation. I was awarded a postdoctoral fellowship from the New York State Health Research Science Board.
In 2006, I joined Prof. Alan Ashworth’s group in the Breakthrough Breast Cancer Research Centre in the Institute of Cancer Research, London. Here, I carried out high-throughput RNAi and compound screens to indentify synthetic lethal interactions with deficiency in the DNA mismatch repair pathway.”
Rix Rictor
Its all very depressing.
Is it really depressing? Surely it is better that problematic data come to light? In the old days, before journals became electronic, the image quality was only as good as grainy paper. It was extremely difficult to tell if images were the same, or very similar. There were also no electronic means to discuss problematic data. Those things have changed.
Of course….agree…its depressing it happens and on this scale. Its also depressing there is no systematic effort to bring the perpetrators to justice. We need a science police.
The perpetrators’ “virtue signalling”, i.e. that they are trying to cure the terrible disease of cancer (through photo shop), the part in brackets is not stated, is galling, but I hope that it makes many laugh.
Its disgusting…..these people should be police reported.
All you readers should send expression of concerns to the institutions with copies to funding agency and journals involved – and spread the news and encourage other scientsts to wake up.
A Powerpoint presentation togehter with a youtube movie for the separate cases may also help convincing the leadership to take action. I have good experience with such a strategy from some other cases.
If more scientists engage against this misbehaviour I think it will help a lot.
Good idea….if you got experience perhaps you could try it here with this case.
“A Powerpoint presentation togehter with a youtube movie for the separate cases may also help convincing the leadership to take action.”
Paul Workman is the “leadership”.
He seems very good with PPT and photoshop….
The funding agencies don’t care, and one of them was happy to accept an honoary doctorate for its CEO. Important funding agency for the Sarah Martin/Alan Ashworth problematic publications were:-
Cancer Res. 2011 Mar 1;71(5):1836-48.
“Cancer Research UK and Breakthrough Breast Cancer. We acknowledge NHS funding to the NIHR Biomedical Research Centre.”
Cancer Cell. 2010 Mar 16;17(3):235-48.
“Cancer Research UK and Breakthrough Breast Cancer. We acknowledge NHS funding to the NIHR Biomedical Research Centre. ”
EMBO Mol Med. 2009 Sep;1(6-7):323-37.
These problematic Sarah Martin/Alan Ashworth publications were pointed out to the leadership of the Institute of Cancer Research (Paul Workman and Jonathan Pines) 9th Jan 2018.
The response of the Institute of Cancer Research leadership was to award former Cancer Research UK CEO Sir Harpal Kumar an honorary doctorate on 10th July 2018.
Ann Betsy
Apparently there are numerous internal informants/moles at ICR in this case and the Nazneen Rahman case.
You can see problematic data in their publications. Don’t need to be an informant/mole to look at the data.
It is essential that the fake data is collected and presented in such a way that most people will quickly understand the problem.
I liked Leonid’s focus on «guilty» women! Maybe that can ignite some women to actively do more to get rid of these arrogant businessmen.
Another ICR story ….from Wikipedia….. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laurence_Pearl
In 2009 he was appointed Head of the new School of Life Sciences at the University of Sussex, relocating his laboratory to the MRC Genome Damage and Stability Centre, where he holds the position of Professor of Structural Biology.
In 2017 he was embroiled in a spat with Sussex Student’s Union’s student newspaper, The Badger. He accused its journalists of publishing ‘fake news’ and preparing for careers at The Sun after the outlet published an article about some of the difficulties faced by students within his department.[13]
In 2017 he announced that he would be standing down as Head of the School of Life Sciences at Sussex. [14]
From 1st October he took up a joint appointment as Head of the Division of Structural Biology at the Institute of Cancer Research while continuing as Professor of Structural Biology in the Genome Damage and Stability Centre at the University of Sussex.
Hmmm………….. so Prof. Pearl moved back to the place where you can tell students who complain that they should shut up with their fake news?!?!!?
From cashed version of The Badger (http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:7h0afXYwk8oJ:thebadgeronline.com/2017/05/laurence-pearl-steps-down-life-sciences/&num=1&client=safari&hl=en&gl=dk&strip=1&vwsrc=0)
However, his tenure as the Head of Life Sciences has not been without controversy, with The Badger recently running a report on some of the difficulties faced by its students. The students condemned the school’s administrative errors, claiming malpractice that did not tally with Sussex Life Science’s commendable ranking and National Student Survey (NSS) scores.
One postgraduate commenting on the article about their experience, stated: “[it is an] extremely poor and toxic place, this Life Sciences Department”.
Professor Pearl took to Twitter
Great to see wannabe-journos from our student newspaper @TheBadgerNews practicing for their future jobs at the Daily Mail #alternativefacts
— Laurence Pearl 🔥#FBPE (@laurencepearl) March 30, 2017
] to air his grievances about the article, dismissing its contents as fake news, while demanding an interview as a right of reply. He has been approached by The Badger three times for an interview, and has failed to take up these offers.
The original The Badger article was removed, which was of course never any form of censorship. But this being the internet: https://web.archive.org/web/20170405191419/http://thebadgeronline.com/2017/04/students-scorn-school-life-science/
They’ve had 10 years to notice and provide the missing P53 band in Figure 3.
That points in one direction and one direction only. ASHWORTH & LORD.
From an insiders explanation I understand Workman was not close to the research, he may have been easy to run things by. Its not an excuse but in a high intensity/misguided environment focused strictly on medicinal leads…….that could enable a lot of ‘problematic ppl’ to manipulate and ‘get seen’.
Not an excuse but a note.
It is a paper in “Oncogene”. If one of the present two editors-in-chief has not noticed anything the matter with this paper in 9 years he is unlikely to notice anything the matter given another year, or two in Oncogene. The likelihood of anything being corrected is close to zero.
https://pubpeer.com/publications/1CCAC58543784D1B17C8416A6D97C2
Someone should start a petition to bring this to the attention of our policy makers. Academia desperately needs to change the way it works- the lack of oversight being one of the major problematic aspects that opens the door to bullying of juniors and fiddling with results by PIs whenever it suits.
Dr Sarah Martin is now senior lecturer at Bart’s Cancer Institute at Queen Mary University London.
Is this the same Sarah Martin whose collaborations with Toru Ouchi have been receiving some attention at Pubpeer lately?
https://pubpeer.com/search?q=martin+ouchi
Ouchi’s various collaborations have accrued an impressive number of entries at PB, is all I can say.
https://pubpeer.com/search?q=ouchi
Going a little bit off-topic here, but on the subject of Toru Ouchi, a few years ago Fernando Pessoa observed that
“According to his insitutional website Toru Ouchi is editor-in-chief of four journals.
Editor-in-Chief: Int. J. of Cancer Research and Molecular Mechanisms (2014-present)”
The “Int. J. of Cancer Research and Molecular Mechanisms” is brought to us by the publishers Sci Forschen. Despite the Germanic name, and the US accommodation address, “Sci Forschen” turns out to be a trio of tech scammers in Hyderabad, presumably alumni of OMICS who decided to go freelance. They’ve been on Beall’s List right from the start on account of being predatory lowlives.
Is Ouchi really that desperate to pad out his CV?
Clearly copy-pasted images. This never ends well for a JBC paper.
Problematic data director Bart’s Cancer Institute Queen Mary University London.
https://www.bci.qmul.ac.uk/en/staff/item/nick-lemoine
Profile section.
“I was Professor of Molecular Pathology at Imperial College London, where I was Director of the Cancer Research UK Molecular Oncology Unit and the first Director of the National Translational Cancer Research Centre at Hammersmith Hospital, before moving to become Director of the Barts Cancer Institute in 2005.”
Same person.
Cancer Gene Ther. 2001 Apr;8(4):308-19.
Herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase/ganciclovir-induced cell death is enhanced by co-expression of caspase-3 in ovarian carcinoma cells.
McNeish IA1, Tenev T, Bell S, Marani M, Vassaux G, Lemoine N.
ICRF Molecular Oncology Unit, Imperial College School of Medicine, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK.
Figure 6D.
Same data in Cancer Gene Ther. 2001 Apr;8(4):308-19 and Cell Death Differ 2001 Mar:8(3):256-64 to represent caspase-3 and pro-caspase 3.
First author of Cancer Gene Ther. 2001 Apr;8(4):308-19, Iain McNeish, is currently: https://www.imperial.ac.uk/people/i.mcneish
Cancer Gene Ther. 2001 Apr;8(4):308-19 is listed in his official list of publications, page 5.
https://www.imperial.ac.uk/people/i.mcneish/publications.html
Senior author Cancer Gene Ther. 2001 Apr;8(4):308-19 is a big wheell in the MRC (UK).
See “Profile”.
“I am currently Chair of Trustees of the Medical Research Foundation (MRC’s independent charity).
I have previously been Chairman of the MRC Clinical Research & Career Development Panel and the NIHR Clinician Scientist Appointments & Review Panel. I chaired the MRC Stem Cell Fellowship Panel, the CR-UK Clinician Scientist and Senior Clinician Fellowship Panel and the MRC Experimental Medicine Review Panel for the Molecular & Cellular Medicine Board. I was a long-serving member of the Gene Therapy Advisory Committee at the Department of Health, as well as the CR-UK Science Funding Committee, MRC Molecular & Cellular Medicine Board, ”
“my research into the molecular genetics of cancer and gene therapy has been funded by programme grants from MRC”.
Did the MRC look at the data in his papers? If so what was their conclusion?
https://pubpeer.com/publications/E76D4CD96F41333C88C84A8EFBC57C
https://pubpeer.com/publications/C45AFF699177A36A92E89E1F043FA9
https://pubpeer.com/publications/79C10FCB7F35089F52CD952E16B7CA
https://pubpeer.com/publications/6F4C2DA11A065E67FC11AC7E20A72E
https://pubpeer.com/publications/16410BD255E583D34D1283B3F3A544#9
https://pubpeer.com/publications/8BAF0817EB8780F86BF8819410FC32
https://pubpeer.com/publications/9F2F1B8EF37583B70D7BC3416F0D65
https://pubpeer.com/publications/1D2508809F94391C87821E79A3E93D
https://pubpeer.com/publications/B13CC0BC29812FA9F444F5832EE1EE
https://pubpeer.com/publications/4E60850BAF0772C24BBF79A23265B3
In support of a 1676 letter concerning certain little animals found by Antonie van Leeuwenhoek in vast quantities in common water, snow-water, well-water, and such water, which was read out to fellow of the Royal Society, London in 1677 we have:-
http://lensonleeuwenhoek.net/content/1677-confirm-his-observations
“several testimonials from persons of good credit” in Delft
“May 18 Benedict Hahn and Henry Cordes, Lutheran pastors in Delft, wrote in Latin to the Royal Society attesting to having seen microbes in Leeuwenhoek’s infusions (translations from the Collected Letters, vol. 2, pp 257-271). “We saw at least 200 living creatures in this 50th part of water; little animals which moved and swam in the water.”
June 2 Robert Gordon, medical student in Delft, wrote to the Royal Society, also in Latin. “I saw as many as 20,000 of those little animals in a quantity of pepper-water not exceeding the size of a grain of millet.”
August 13 Aldert Hodenpijl wrote in. “In that small Quantity of water, I saw above thirty thousand Living Creatures.”
August 21 Johannes Boogert, notary, Robert Poitevin, doctor, and W. van der Burch, lawyer, wrote to the Royal Society in Latin. “We have observed with our own eyes that each of the 90 parts contained more than 500 little animals.”
August 30 Alex Petrie, pastor of the English Congregation in Delft, wrote in English to Royal Society. Leeuwenhoek sent a Dutch translation, too. “… that in so small a quantity of water I should see such vast number of those little animals.””
These testimonials were before photography was invented. We may view these testimonials as quaint, or laughable, but they had no other means of confirmation at that time.
Could “persons of good credit” confirm that prof Nick Lemoine’s duplications and assemblages in Cancer Gene Ther. 2001 Apr;8(4):308-19 are true and accurate representations of reality? I don’t think anybody is laughing now.
See “funding”
Medical Research Council
Characterization and impact of novel regulators of mitochondrial DNA integrity on tumourigenesis
Two reasons Director Barts Cancer Institute, prof Nick Lemoine, dismissed problematic data in Sarah Martin’s papers in 2015:-
to keep hands on £416,652 MRC grant,
fear that any retractions would cause people to look more generally at his insitutute’s publications, including his own.
News does not cross the English Channel.
https://www.statnews.com/2016/06/24/science-fraud-second-chance/
https://retractionwatch.com/2012/12/13/funding-agency-sanctions-bulfone-paus-and-former-postdoc/
The British way.
https://retractionwatch.com/2014/07/01/geneticist-retracting-four-papers-for-significant-problems/
https://www.timeshighereducation.co.uk/news/grant-winners-27-march-2014/2012221.article
Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council
Award winner: Neil Perkins
Institution: Newcastle University
Value: £384,474
DNA damage induced phosphorylation and regulation of NF-kappaB
In that paper, a novel cancer cure approach was established by specific targeting of the enzyme PINK using RNA interference (siRNA), which could be further potentiated by duplicating loading controls!
Here’s another nice diagram from “Merianthera Verrucosa”, tracing images across three papers you mentioned:
Not just loading controls being tastefully reused.
Data across 4 papers.
Clearing up a bit of confusion. Much more similar than you would expect , except the samples are different.
Very similar blots across 3 papers.
Nasty stuff…NASTY….
Second 2018 Paul Workman correction.
Clin Cancer Res. 2011 Mar 15;17(6):1561-70. doi: 10.1158/1078-0432.CCR-10-1927
2 comments on PubPeer (by: Cypovirus 5, Hoya Camphorifolia)
. Epub 2011 Jan 28.
A phase I study of the heat shock protein 90 inhibitor alvespimycin (17-DMAG) given intravenously to patients with advanced solid tumors.
Pacey S1, Wilson RH, Walton M, Eatock MM, Hardcastle A, Zetterlund A, Arkenau HT, Moreno-Farre J, Banerji U, Roels B, Peachey H, Aherne W, de Bono JS, Raynaud F, Workman P, Judson I.
Cancer Research UK Cancer Therapeutics Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, Surrey, United Kingdom.
2018 correction.
http://clincancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/24/21/5488
“In the original version of this article (1), Fig. 3A included duplicate gel lanes for the third patient from the left and mislabeled lanes for the fifth patient from the left. The authors contacted the Editors and provided original images to correct the figure. Errors have been corrected in the latest online HTML and PDF versions of the article. The authors regret these errors.”
Pingback: Eric Lam: shady research at Imperial to cure breast cancer – For Better Science
2019 mega-correction for:
Silencing of HSP90 cochaperone AHA1 expression decreases client protein activation and increases cellular sensitivity to the HSP90 inhibitor 17-allylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin.
Holmes JL1, Sharp SY, Hobbs S, Workman P.
Cancer Research UK Centre for Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, Haddow Laboratories, Sutton, Surrey, United Kingdom.
https://pubpeer.com/publications/C6FC87A48D3FA4FBE14988F4C7DA6C
http://cancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/79/1/286
In the original version of this article (1), some images were inadvertently duplicated in Fig. 2B, and in addition there was splicing of images in Fig. 2C (left panel) that was clear but not indicated by a vertical line. The findings and conclusions of the article remain the same. The errors have been corrected in the latest online PDF version of the article. The authors regret this error.
1.↵Holmes JL, Sharp SY, Hobbs S, Workman P. Silencing of HSP90 cochaperone AHA1 expression decreases client protein activation and increases cellular sensitivity to the HSP90 inhibitor 17-allylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin. Cancer Res 2008;68:1188–96
2019 correction for:
In vitro biological characterization of a novel, synthetic diaryl pyrazole resorcinol class of heat shock protein 90 inhibitors.
Sharp SY1, Boxall K, Rowlands M, Prodromou C, Roe SM, Maloney A, Powers M, Clarke PA, Box G, Sanderson S, Patterson L, Matthews TP, Cheung KM, Ball K, Hayes A, Raynaud F, Marais R, Pearl L, Eccles S, Aherne W, McDonald E, Workman P.
Haddow Laboratories, Cancer Research UK Centre for Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, 15 Cotswold Road, Belmont, Sutton, Surrey, UK.
The editors were notified that in the original version of this article (1), the GAPDH and Phospho ERK1/2 Western blot bands were inadvertently inserted into Fig. 3A, leading to duplication errors. A review of the original research records by the editors verified that the original scanned images represent the experiments described in the article. The error has been corrected in the latest online PDF version of the article. The authors regret this error.
1.↵Sharp SY, Boxall K, Rowlands M, Prodromou C, Roe SM, Maloney A, et al. In vitro biological characterization of a novel, synthetic diaryl pyrazole resorcinol class of heat shock protein 90 inhibitors. Cancer Res 2007;67:2206–16
Can happen to everyone!
https://pubpeer.com/publications/2D08D69E0DA4FD23B55600C9AD42C7
Paul Workman is one of the two deputy editors of the sister journal Mol Cancer Ther.
Cancer Research is conflicted.
http://mct.aacrjournals.org/site/misc/edboard.xhtml
Deputy Editors:
Stephen W. Fesik
Cancer drug discovery, structural biology, apoptosis
Paul Workman
Cancer drug discovery and development; new therapeutic targets; molecular pharmacology; biomarkers; chemical biology and chemical probes.
Pingback: Manchester: “research misconduct concerned only one member of the research group” – For Better Science
marketaz
I worked at the Breakthrough (under Ashworth et al). I know all these people. My group did our own research but also data analysis with these people. I have 2 papers co-authored with Richard M. (not any of the ones you mention). I never, ever suspected that something like this could go on. Some of these people I liked and admired for their science…some I disliked for the way they seemed to do their research and treated people…but to cheat. No that never crossed my mind. Obviously, I am naive. Now I am sad.
R******
I have worked on top institutions and biomedical labs across Europe.
And by far, really by far, The ICR is the place where I saw that research was conducted in the most ethical and responsible way.
I will keep my ID anonymous, but I was part of Prof Workman group and I think is highly unlike that he has any role on the pieces of evidence presented here. I can easily record he asking me every raw data and each dataset control in each meeting. As well, reviewing figures and conclusions on manuscripts or reports.
The fact that The ICR presents the issues mentioned in this blog shows me how carefully and seriously the institute take research misconduct. I have seen worse in other places that no one knows because never comes to light. Not saying that because of this one should discard any misconduct at The ICR, but surely one should know that there misconduct is taken seriously.
On top of that, several anticancer drugs and treatments came from there. Which would not be possible if the institute would work on the basis of faking data and on research misconduct.
In general, I think that the text presented here is a bit biased and utterly sensationalist. Like, the picture of Prof Workman with the current PM, which has a controversial profile, labelled “spot the liar” that is not informative at all – it serves the sole propose to be detrimental. I hope the readers are able to distinguish the sensationalism from the information here. Which is seriously and I’m sure it will have a proper closure.
Thanks for sharing your views. Do you have any non-sensationalist comments on the work of Prof Chris Lord? Also, do you agree that a reasonable action when faced with massive data fakery, is to correct rather than to retract the affected papers, as Prof Workman chose to do?
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Large-Scale Forum Games
Fizzy Bubbles
The Arcane Realm: Land of Freedom and Magicks (FFAZ)
Thread starter Liltwick
Meetan
Fizzytopian Idol
TheKnightsFury said:
Meetan- Eridian quickly scares off the Pidove, they weren't about to mess with a little black thug dragon! Thankfully that means the majority of the elderly traders goods are intact, the mountain of spilled berries and home-baked goods were salvageable but their value would likely be depreciated. That likely wasn't good, as from what you could gather from the merchant's behaviour, he needed the money. You quickly come to his aid though, tossing out a ball and releasing Farren the Pineco. The Pink Pineco was just one of many oddly coloured Pokemon you possessed, but in a place called the Arcane Realm, people had probably seen much stranger things than a black Bagon and a Pink Pineco. First things first, you had to get the cart back on four wheels. You order Eridian to use his Strength to lift the cart, which he does with ease. Farren follows with a String Shot, pinning the thread to cart's rear before reeling it in, ensuring the the cart isn't placed back in the same hole it had hit to tip over. With the cart back on all four wheels, the elderly merchant begins to load the items back in, working as fast as his ageing body would allow. You begin to help, as does Eridian and Farren, although the Pineco struggles without any notable appendages. You offer to help pull the cart as well, but the old man shakes his head.
"No I need to get my Tauros back, I'd be lost without him", the old man is shaking in panic at this point. "Something has been messing up the road recently, there are holes like this all over the place. I didn't see this one until it was too late and the cart tipped, Tauros panicked and broke free, bolting off in that direction." He points off the road, through a thicket of trees. You can clearly see tracks heading off in that direction, it likely wouldn't be overly hard to track the spooked Tauros. "I can finish loading everything back up, would you be a dear and go find my Tauros? He might need to be calmed down, but he's not overly aggressive."
The Pidove scattered, intimidated by her beloved dragon, and the plan to sort the cart out was a success. It was soon back on its wheels, and they were able to help the old man a little bit. Alice felt awful for him. Seeing someone upset like this was always distressing for her - she was quite empathetic and it was like their feelings resonated - but with someone elderly it always seemed to hurt more. She knew the food's value might have been depreciated, but she was considering whether it would be worth trying to buy some anyway, once this was all said and done. Plenty of food items in Fizzytopia unlocked a Pokemon's abilities, and maybe some of this would do the same? If not, she expected her Pokemon would still find them delicious, and it was always good to be well stocked when on an adventure with no idea where the fuck you were going.
"Hey, don't worry too much about it. We'll go and get that Tauros for you." Alice assured him, her voice encouraging and yet soothing all the same. She could be a selfish bitch, but right now she wasn't thinking of rewards. Besides, seeing a Tauros in the flesh could be cool! She'd always loved Tauros, but had yet to encounter one in her Fizzytopia frenzy. "Eridian, Farren; can you try to pick up the Tauros' scent? I know your nose isn't as strong, Farren, it's just better for both of you to try anyway." She added, and the bagworm nodded in acknowledgement, hopping along the ground to try and get a sense of the Pokemon's smell. The Bagon was sniffing along the rope and part of the cart as well as the ground, doing his best to get a sense for the runaway before doing the same along the grassy tracks. That'd help separate the Tauros' aroma from the birds', too.
They didn't have time to waste, though, so once her Pokemon were ready to roll, Alice would pick up Farren and get ready to jog - or at least briskly walk - after Eridian, who she'd encourage to pick up the pace. Hopefully he wouldn't force her into a run, not that it'd be the first time. Her stamina was better these days but she just wasn't built to run, it was a fact, and even if she'd been working on it she had naturally weak ankles... Life's a biatch. "Even if he does get aggressive, we've got it, but we'll do our best not to hurt him. Otherwise pulling the cart'll be an issue." Hopefully it wasn't already injured, but if he was, they could try to fix that as well. Maybe there would be berries or other items about that they could gather to help bribe or heal the Tauros with.
No need for the disco
Liltwick said:
THE ARCANE REALM
"The moment man devoured the fruit of knowledge, he sealed his fate... Entrusting his future to the cards, man clings to a dim hope. Yes, the Arcana is the means by which all is revealed..." Nyx Avatar (Persona 3)
The Land of Cups
Named for the small valleys and tall hills and mountains native to the region, forming almost natural cups, this is an almost verdant and fertile land. Despite the desert in the very north and the mountains nestled in, a large variety of life can be found here. The Land of Cups is the jewel of the Arcane Realm, and without it, the realm would be a lot more desolate. Luckily, there a preservation efforts to make the this jewel doesn’t lose its shine. (Please respond in Plum
XVII. Desert of Stars - A small, arid desert at the northern tip of the Land of Cups, the Desert of Stars is named for the various meteorites found within this region. While more a dry, mountainous desert than a sandy one, sandstorms are still a common occurance here. Though, despite these conditions, explorers and treasure hunters flock to this region for the meteorites found here, and the rare Pokemon attracted to them. Some have even stated they’ve had some otherworldly experiences here.
Oh, how long it had been...
For many people, the prospect of a journey to a desert on the whims of nostalgia would be seen as peculiar, and few would argue that there was a certain majesty to the sands that time forgot. Yes, while forests grow and topple, cities rise and crumble, and kingdoms rule and collapse, the desert remained as natural as it was, the eventual fate of any world, to return to dust. True, fortunes existed within the dunes, and some spoke of mystery and intrigue within the sands, and of ancient and vast catacombs. Anyone who would have spoken of them would be deemed a madman, for no such labyrinthian structures existed within the desert anymore, the winds having ground them to the dust they grew from.
Nuhuko would call those people fools, as would Alex.
Currently the human and Lunatone were staring down the expanse of rock, and reminiscing. Yes, the Arcane Realm held a special place in Alex's heart, for his first foray into Fizzytopia was indeed within this land, and with naught but a Chimchar and Snover by his side, he pushed through trials and earned the freedom and respect of the Meteorite pokemon. It had been several years since then, and those two adventurous creatures had grown and matured. The Snover, now a mighty Abomasnow and the first of Alex's team to experience mega evolution, yet Mistilteinn had opted to remain back at what makeshift camp they called home, while the fire starter was an Infernape, who was making his way back to Alex and Nuhuko after a little scouting. The monkey looked into the pumpkin tinted rock pokemon's eyes, and both gave a respectful nod. It had been in a desert akin to this where the pair first did battle, and while the outcome did lead to friendship and Alex's first capture within the region, it also brought with it a slight rivalry.
Such rivalry eventually faded into true companionship, and as the psychic pokemon conversed with the fighting type, the human in the group idly fidgeted with his wrist, a quiet click emanating from a black clad gauntlet. Gently raising it from its slot, Alex gave a quick once over on the end of his arm. It was a little itchy, and perhaps that was due to phantom pains, but on the other hand it truly felt like he had stepped back in time. Reattaching the prosthetic, he gave it a couple of idle flexes to ensure proper connection before turning to his oldest companions (excluding that one Golurk) and waved his hand. It was time to move in to find adventure once more.
TheKnightsFury
Meetan said:
TKF: Adrienne snorted, rolling your eyes before you were even done with your speech. She was a dishonourable, spoiled hack and you made sure that she knew it! Her winning tactic had angered you enough to see red, and you knew that limitless bond with Charizard might suddenly have a hard line ruled through it because of her behaviour. Unbelievable!
“Silver spoon fed princess? Am I? Did it ever occur to you that Buginum Z was something that I earned fair and square? Do you think that these powerful Pokemon were just given to me? Hah. You're far from perfect. You're a child who thinks that he's a big man, who thinks that he knows everything. Perhaps I should have taken that Fennekin after all. At the very least, I could have found it a better trainer than the likes of you.”
Her lofty tone ends in venom, pink eyes skimming you over like you were worse than a lowly Grubin – like you were scum that weren't worth the sole of a murderer's shoes. “My 'lowly' Grubin grew into this, a powerful battler. I could think of worse comparisons. A true trainer is ready for whatever comes their way, including an arrogant little thief's super effective mega evolution. As if your tactics were any better, some brute force easy mode. Don't play like you're some knight to me, little boy. Karma has caught up to you, now, and it's going to do one worse. All of your own impatience and judgement will now lose you your bounty.” She tilted her head ever so slightly, beautiful pink waves falling to the side.
“I was going to give you a chance to battle me, for us to share the assumed treasures equally, along with whatever I was going to give you for your help today. But I see your presumptuous little behind doesn't deserve it.” Adrienne's voice was sheer cold. You thought she was nasty before? Now she's actively punishing you for your stereotypes, for your insolence, for your little tantrum to boot. It sounds like you, the grandson of a champion, were in fact in the presence of an elite trainer... So much for that silver spoon. “A boy who preaches about honour while sending his babies to raid. There's so much irony, you really will be a fun story for the message boards, won't you? We from Kalos love a good gossip, it's the same in Hoenn and Unova, too. I wonder how it is in Fizzytopia? Your grandfather would be so disappointed to hear about your reputation, if he's still kicking, that is...”
She's smirking. She doesn't care about your feelings anymore, if she ever did. You could try grovelling or apologising, but it might be too late. You could try distracting her with a new Pokemon to strike, but could you even do anything substantial if you tried? “Viki, help Rosetta take care of those children.” The older teenager ordered, her Vikavolt lifting from the ground to shoot off into the bushes behind you – where the Vivillion had suddenly taken some kind of nosedive. “Time to show their parent what consequences look like...”
As the verbal volley was returned, everything suddenly hit Xander like a Beedrill to the chest. He'd gone into this with the best intentions, but at some point he'd let the girl's personality morph him into a form of himself that he'd never seen before. Was this the power of the Fool's Path? Or perhaps he'd just been a fool completely on his own. Either way, he'd made so many assumptions about Adrienne, just because she'd been disrespectful to her, didn't mean he had the right to return serve. His father and grandfather wouldn't have been disappointed in him losing the battle, but he knew now they'd be really disappointed in the way he'd behaved. As much as it pained him, he had to swallow his pride and apologise. "Wait!" Xander shouted, "that's enough, you've won." Every word hurt as it came out, but he continued. "I've been rude and disrespectful, I apologise for my actions. I'm not normally like this, I think I just got a bit carried away. I guess sometimes I feel like I've got a point to prove, starting my adventure so long after my friends, I feel like I'm constantly lagging behind. I honestly just wanted to help you recover your Buginium Z, but at some point I lost sight of that and my goal became more greedy. I'll take my Pokemon and leave, but one day we'll battle again and when we do, I'll win!" Xander took a deep breath, once the words started pouring out he couldn't stop them.
He'd come to piece with the fact that Fennekin's horde would likely be lost to them, but he now had a new goal as well, get stronger and smash Adrienne into the ground when next they met.
Meetan- You reassure the elderly merchant that you would retrieve his Tauros, you really felt for him and his situation. You task your two Pokemon to tracking the lost bull's scent, it goes without saying that Eridian would have more success in this than Farren. The bagworm seems a little uncertain on what to do, he gives the footprints a couple of sniffs but can't really discern a particular scent. Eridian on the other hand is much more experienced in this sort of thing and quickly goes to where he can get a good whiff of the Tauros' scent. The broken straps and ropes at the front of the cart were drenched in the Tauros' odour, he had a read on it as soon as the smell entered his nostrils. From there he followed the scent trail over to the clearly defined hoof prints and began to follow them, quickly gaining distance. It was time to move! You reassure the man once more before scooping up Farren and heading off in a brisk walk after Eridian. Thankfully the little dragon wasn't moving too fast, he had to remain on the Tauros' trail after all.
You follow the Bagon for a few hundred metres before you emerge into a small clearing. There it was, the Tauros! The bull seems to have calmed down by itself, it was now feeding from a small bush on the far side of the clearing, its back turned to you. It seems to be happily grazing from the bush, but it had a job to do, the old man needed it and you promised to bring it back to him. Eridian is wary of approaching, even though the Tauros seemed relaxed, it would likely spook easily if he wasn't careful. You'd found the Tauros, but how would you go about getting it back to its owner?
TKF: Fitting for a bug specialist, Adrienne's words suddenly enlighten you, but in a way that isn't pleasant. Ignorance is bliss, so they say, but perhaps this ignorance would have burned you in the end. To see the truth: that you had lost yourself to your anger and insecurity, it felt like a Beedrill had impaled you – and honestly, with how Adrienne's looking at you right now you honestly wonder for a moment if she might actually release one and take you out. Nobody would ever know...
“Those aren't excuses for acting like a piece of shit.” It's hard to say whether she forgives you or not, Adrienne hasn't confirmed that part yet. It also doesn't look like she's going to. “Come and get your Pokemon, then, and hope that something's left of them.” The words are spoken in a sigh. She wouldn't actually do that, would she? Surely not. It's hard to say, the image Adrienne projects clearly isn't the same as her true self. The sound of an explosion and Pokemon cries – that you recognise as your trio – fill the air, but thankfully, Adrienne had the mercy to put things to a halt.
“Viki! Rosetta! Heel!” She clapped her hands, now strolling into the gathering of bushes and trees, seemingly uncaring for dirt on her beautiful clothes or any marks or scratches on her pristine skin. The Vivillion emerged in the air once more, the Vikavolt returning to her trainer. If you were to follow her, you'd find that there really was a trove of treasure to be found – and your Pokemon. Froakie was hanging from String in a tree and both Chimchar and Fennekin had been knocked out. Whatever had blown the pair up, at least Froakie was alright, although a check on the Pokedex would oddly show three levels gained for their theft attempt.
Adrienne picked up her Buginium Z, glinting in light that broke through the trees. There were leftover food, some other items and discs that look like Technical Machines. As expected, the trainer takes first dibs, and then tosses a TM in your direction. Rage. She has a fucking sense of humour, this one. Think she can tutor Spite, too?
“Here. The rest is yours.” Adrienne decided, making a gesture to Viki, whose mandibles snip the poor Froakie loose. The bug even delicately helps the starter to the ground! Apparently the mean lesson is over with. “I look forward to you beating me in a battle one day, you know, if I ever get hold of one of those Dream Machines or become a psychic. Come on, girls.”
The Pokemon trill their goodbyes to you, and you are left in the dust of your failure: two fallen Pokemon, a bruised Froakie, TM Rage, a batch of Leftovers and several notes that add up to a hundred and fifty pokedollarydoos. Better luck next time, little thief, but at least this was better than nothing...?
Alice was glad that Eridian quickly found the Tauros' scent. Of course she had faith in him, but this world tended to throw the weirdest wrenches around, and she never enjoyed figuring out how to stop getting hit by them. Often they tended to just hit her harder, and surprisingly, she wasn't that into it! Quietly, and taking in the sweet sights of nature, Alice followed after the concentrating dragon until they came across the Tauros. Keeping silent, the blonde expressed her awe with a dramatic facial expression, resisting the urge to snap a few photos with her Pokegear. She didn't want to disturb him, but they had to, and in a way that didn't mean it killed them to death.
"Farren, can you attract the Tauros with your sweet scent?" Admittedly they were risking attracting all sorts with such a move, but Alice just wanted to try and keep the creature calm while they led it back to the old man. Still expressing her plan in a whisper, Alice added, "Eridian, approach from front and try talking to him. Let him know what's going on. I'll wait back here, let him know so he doesn't get scared. I have treats, too, if he wants any." She had some poffin, pokeblock and castelia cones at least. There was probably something on her person that would appeal to the Pokemon's palette. Hanging back, the Bagon stalked off to get to a good point to move in, trying to appear as non-threatening as possible... Which, for Eridian, was quite frankly difficult. If a Pokemon could have resting bitch face, it was absolutely him. Farren, however, was more like Lorin. The easygoing Pineco somehow managed to have an upbeat vibe without actually having much of a face. Maybe it was because of how cute the pink bagworm was? Pink fumes began to release from the cone, filling the air with a sweet and peaceful aroma, and Alice hoped that her tactic would work.
Thing was, she had this funny feeling that it really, really wouldn't.
Xander rushed to his Pokemon as Adrienne departed, how could he let this happen to them! He cradle Froakie in his arms as he recalled Chimchar and Fennekin. They were bruised and beaten, but by Arceus would they be eager for revenge. Adrienne would regret ever crossing him, treating him like dirt. He wouldn't be disrespectful when next they met, no he would pay her the respect a trainer of her calibre deserved and he'd give her a battle she'd truly remember. He pocketed the few items they'd been left and began his rush to the nearest town, his Pokemon needed medical attention.....
Chimchar reached lvl 19!
Froakie reached lvl 19!
Fennekin reached lvl 17!
XX. Meadow of Judgement - Named for being one of the places where heretics and traitors were tried, the meadow has now grown out from that purpose and is a large place of life for small critters and flowers. The beautiful flowers provide food and shelter for a variety of Pokemon living there, and the feeling of magic is strong here. Mages can often be found here practicing their craft due to the large, powerful leyline within the Meadow. It is also said by the religious sect of the Arcane Realm is that this is where Judgement Day will commence, and all of the flowers here symbolize a soul that will be saved.
It had been some time since their dealings with Adrienne, yet the defeat still stung. After getting his Pokemon healed, Xander continued to travel through the Arcane Realm, training and battling with his Pokemon so they'd be more prepared the next time they crossed paths with the Bug Specialist. Now they found themselves in the Land of Cups, training in a meadow of beautiful flowers. There was a strong sense of magic in the air as Xander watched his Pokemon exchange blows.
Fennekin had grown a lot since its capture, as evident by the way it was handling itself against Chimchar and Froakie. It had faced the pair when they first met, but now with some training under its belt, it was much more capable of dealing with them. The tricky fox sends Chimchar tumbling backwards. The Fire type had tried getting in close, only to be met with a powerful Psybeam for his efforts. As the chimp finds its feet, it feels unsteady and begins to stumble around, clearly confused. Froakie keeps his distance, firing off a Bubble barrage that puts Fennekin on the retreat, doing her best to pop the Bubbles with Scratch. Froakie launches a Water Pulse amongst the Bubbles however and catches Fennekin by surprise. As she pops the Water Pulse she is washed backwards, a nasty hit indeed. Fennekin quickly finds her feet however, letting out a Howl as she begins to glow. The fox suddenly rises onto two feet, her body undergoing drastic change as her evolution begins. As the light continues to glow, the Fire types arms develop and its tail grows. Fennekin evolved into Braixen!
(Feeding 3 Rare Candies to Fennekin, boosting her to lvl 20 and evolving her into Braixen!)
The newly evolved Braixen pulls the stick from her tail, igniting the piece of wood before she begins to whirl it around. She generates a towering Fire Spin around Froakie, the Water type had nowhere to run. Still wielding her stick like a wand, Braixen fires off another Psybeam, striking Froakie with a powerful hit.
"That'll do Fen... Braxien!" Xander wasn't all too surprised she'd evolved, he'd come here, to the Meadow of Judgement, with the intent of evolving her. He had heard this place was full of mages and the newly evolved Braixen would likely appreciate so tutelage from those more experienced with magic. "Great work Froakie and Chimchar, you two can have a bit of a rest", Xander recalled the pair into their Pokeballs. "Alright Braixen, why don't we go see if we can find someone who can help you hone your new powers?" Braixen smiled as she looked over her new body, clearly impressed with the evolution.
Meetan- Not wanting to spook the Tauros, you decide that convincing the Tauros to follow you of its own volition would be better than announcing your presence. To that end, you order Farren to release a Sweet Scent, the enticing aroma would likely draw the Tauros in, then all you had to do was lead it back to the cart! You had some extra treats ready should they be needed and Eridian would approach from the front once you had the Tauros' attention and would fill it in on the situation. If all went as planned, there was no way you could fail. The pretty pink Pineco continues to release its Sweet Scent, the slight breeze wafts the perfume towards the Tauros. You watch eagerly as the pink cloud reaches the Normal type, quickly grabbing its attention. The bull's tails swish with excitement and it quickly turns around to find the source of the delightful aroma. A look of pure glee in its eyes it approaches Farren, it doesn't appear frightened at all. The bashful bull begins to lick the bag worm, Farren doesn't seem all too delighted by this but he knows he can't afford to scare the Tauros. Eridian approaches carefully, coming at the Tauros head on so he was less likely to surprise it. You watch as the Bagon explains that you are here to lead it back to its master, the Tauros appears to understand.
Something catches Eridian's eye, causing him to turn. The dirt is being pushed up as something burrows through the ground, approaching at speed. He stands at the ready, but whatever it is digs straight under him, what was it after? Not what, who! Farren suddenly disappears as a hole appears beneath him, causing him to drop a few feet under the ground. The Tauros is a little startled but thankfully it doesn't run off. Meanwhile, down in the hole, Farren looks into the eyes of the Pokemon that dragged him down here, well rather, the jaws. A large pair of orange jaws are all the Pineco can see. Whatever it was, it was drawn in by the Sweet Scent and appeared infatuated with the Pineco.
Missingno. Master
Poison-type Trainer
Silverstream said:
Missingno. Master
The Grimer seemed to shrink down slightly, their belief in their leader and the need for a barrier waning. Your Furret's words had made them contemplate why they were really fighting, the simple words of their leader that humans were terrible? They were certainly starting to doubt that he was even remotely steering them in an accurate direction. They murmured to one another, tossing glances in the direction of yourself and your Pokemon as well as back at their leader. The Muk seemed to be growing agitated. It was itching for fight, and not having one was clearly bothering it. It's multicolored skin flashed in irritation, yet it remained hidden behind it's metaphorical wall.
Meanwhile, as her name implied, Help literally swung into action. She used her circular body to swing herself in all sorts of directions, landing near the fallen Grimer and chiming a bell, causing the creature to rise.
'T-THANK YOU.' It murmured, clearly less aggressive and more shy than it's companions. It extended a hand to Help, clearly grateful for her going out of her way to revive it. It looked back at his companions, a frown crossing it's goopy face. 'MUK WON'T BACK DOWN WITHOUT A FIGHT. HE LOVES ATTACKING HUMANS.' It sighed, looking back at it's companions. 'MY BROTHERS MEAN WELL... BUT THEY'RE TOO AFRAID TO CROSS MUK.' It watched the group for a while, noticing a shadow moving with seemingly nothing attached to it. 'DO YOU... SEE THAT?' It asked, pointing towards the ground and drawing her attention to the small shadow. Help seemed slightly confused, the Grimer and Muk hadn't noticed it yet. It's patterns were irregular and it worked it's way to the backside of the Muk.
'TUMMMMP!' The cry of the Phantump rang out, ascending out of the ground like a phantom and forcing it's small body weight at the large Muk. The Muk hissed out in response, sinking back into the ground before turning around and grabbing the Phantump Screeching loudly in it's face.
'YOU DARE ATTACK ME?!' The Muk swung the Phantump around, tossing it's body towards your ground. Thinking quickly, Laugh set up the Protect, cushioning the blow of the Phantump. It bounced off the protect, landing on the cold grassy ground in front of your group. 'YOU DARE SIDE WITH HUMANS? AFTER WHAT THEY DID TO YOUR MOTHER?' Muk's words were not sympathetic, but rather mocking. The Phantump pulled itself up, staring at the Muk with distaste.
'They...' It groaned in pain, slowly floating back up. 'They caught her... it's not like she's dead.' The Phantump coughed, clearly close to fainting from the sheer force of the throw plus it's earlier battle with you. The Muk's smirk curled in distaste, looking at the small ghost.
'YOU REALLY BELIEVE THAT? YOU'RE MORE FOOLISH THAN I THOUGHT!' It screamed out the last words, swinging it's arm to deal the final blow. The Phantump reacted quickly, closing it's eyes as an invisible Bond was formed between itself and the Muk. The Muk smacked it with a large hand, Knocking it's block off. The Phantump flew backwards, vanishing before it's body was able to hit your protective shield. The Muk chuckled seeing it's body dissipate, it was ready to Fling one of it's companions at you but it suddenly began to spasm.
'W-WHAT?! WHAT IS THIS?' It cried out, screaming in horror as it felt it's health drain. 'NO! N-NO!' It cried out loudly, melting back into the ground. The Grimer turned in horror.
'MUK?!' They cried out, seeing that their companion was no more. They all looked at one another before quickly fleeing, running from the battle.
Ava gained 2 Levels
Laugh gained 2 Levels
Help gained 1 Level
Help and the previously fallen Grimer looked around, their faces dimming as they realized that they Phantump was truly gone. Grimer sighed, glancing at where the Muk had melted into the ground. 'IT NEEDED TO BE DONE... NOW HUMANS CAN VISIT AGAIN.' It frowned, clearly not believing the words it was speaking. 'I SHOULD LEAVE TOO. THIS AREA CAN FINALLY HEAL WITHOUT US AROUND.' It glanced at your team, clearly feeling guilty for polluting the area.
Terri gave a small smile- her words, and especially Zoom's words, they seemed to be getting through to the Grimer at least. Muk, on the other hand, seemed to be growing more and more agitated with every second that the fight it sought wasn't breaking out. This worried Terri- she hoped she could somehow get through to Muk as well.
Help, meanwhile, was on the move! The sentient lei maneuvered her way past the Poison/Dark-types like an extremely floral ninja, making her way to the injured Grimer and rousing it with a Heal Bell. Grimer was grateful for this, showing right away that it was much moe shy than the others, and much less aggressive. It sttated that Muk wouldn't back down without a fight, and that its brothers were alright, but too afraid of getting on Muk's bad side. And considering the reason Help had to go and, well, help Grimer in the first place, she couldn't really blame them much. The Comfey sighed. "Terri won't give up on trying to stop this without a fight," she replied to Grimer. "Muk's distrust of humans- that sort of thing really strikes a nerve with her, more than most things do." Then, Grimer pointed out something on the ground- a strange shadow, seemingly attached to nothing, moving about on its own."Huh," murmured Help. "What is...?"
Phantump. It was Phantump. The spooky stump appeared from nowhere, executing Phantom Force, which... didn't do very much. Well, aside from pissing Muk off, anyway. The big bad blob grabbed Phantump, unleashing a Screech as he screamed in its face. Laugh hastened to set up a protect as Muk threw Phantump, but this didn't stop Muk from mocking the little ghost, reminding it of its mother's fate. Which, it turned out, was being caught, not dying. Not that Muk let that explanation slide- it slammed its large hand into Phantump, sending it flying, and... erasing it from existence?!
"Oh, no! Phantump!" Terri exclaimed. Despite the trouble Phantump had caused them earlier on, Terri more than understood why it was trying to keep them away, and had since grown to like the arboreal apparition. She had even been giving consideration to the notion of asking Phantump if it wanted to accompany her on her journey. Laugh took hold of one of Terri's trembling hands, in an attempt to comfort her. And Terri managed a weak yet sincere smile in response- said attempt went neither unnoticed nor unappreciated.
The moment, however, was abruptly interrupted by Muk's screams. Ava was ready to defend against whatever it was about to do, but found this unnecessary, for Muk's screams were of horror- its body was starting to melt into the ground, and not due to any deliberate maneuver on its part. "Wh- Destiny Bond," Terri gasped. "That's what Phantump did just before..."
"And since Phantump... well..." murmured Laugh, "Muk's also..."
The Froslass did not need to finish her statement. It was sinking in all around exactly what happened to a murderer when their victim's final act was to use Destiny Bond. And as they also learned then and there, four out of five Grimer agree that this was an excellent time to haul ass.
Help and the remaining Grimer looked around, saddened by Phantump's demise. Grimer, however, turned its attention to the spot where Muk disappeared, stating that it needed to be done, that Muk's death meant humans could come again. It then continued on, clearly feeling guilty, stating that it too should leave so the area could finally begin to heal.
Terri and Laugh exchanged looks, and then exchanged nods. The lovers knew good and well what needed done here, and with that established, Terri approached the oddly toothy regional variant. "Grimer," she said, rummaging through her bag with one hand as she spoke. "You said earlier that you'd love a home, didn't you? I meant what I said- there really are good humans out there, ones who would give loving homes to any kind of Pokémon, and I know one such human personally. He's an experienced Pokémon Trainer who'll welcome any kind of Pokémon, but he's got a real soft spot for Poison-types like you. If you don't know where you should go next... I could take you to him," she offered, finally drawing her hand back out of her bag, revealing the Poké Ball she was clutching, the second out of a set of five. And while this was going on, Help looked around the desolate area, and decided to try and give it a little... well, a little help. She focused hard, hoping to infuse the Terrain with lots of Grassy energy. It would have been considerably optimistic of her to assume that this would completely undo what Muk and the Grimer have done over Xerneas only knows how long, but she figured it was at least a good starting point.
Ava grew to level 8!
Ava learned Baby-Doll Eyes!
Laugh grew to level 49!
Help grew to level 15!
ShadowDRGN
ShadowDRGN- Collecting the map and saying well to your knew friends, you exit the dwelling and head off in the direction you'd been pointed. The Arcane Realm huh? You had no idea how you could have gone from the Unova region to some unknown realm, maybe your questions would be properly answered at some point but right now you had another task to worry about. It was starting to get dark and if you didn't get to the master's house by nightfall, you'd be forced to camp outside. It would be much better spending the night inside, especially if there were aggressive Water Pokemon getting around.....
You follow the lake for the most part, although you turn to the map when you feel like you're getting close. You were, Boss and the Buizel come to a stop, their more sensitive ears picking up a sound up ahead. They rush forward, surely you were getting sick of running at this point? You pursue anyway and soon hear the same chopping noise as they do, repetitive and rhythmic. You emerge into a clearing with a large cabin on the far side and a large Machamp in the middle, repetitively punching a large log that it has driven into the ground. It alternated its punches, taking turns striking with each of its four arms. Each punch hit the same spot with practised precision. Finally the log gives in an topples with a sickly crack. A hearty laugh fills the clearing, not from the Machamp, but from its trainer. "Well done Machamp, but I think we have some guests so that's enough training for today." You hadn't noticed the bulky elder at first, your eyes were too focused on his Machamp. "Alola traveller!" he greets you with cheer, "what brings you out here at this time of evening?"
As he's fishing out the map again, Jason stumbles upon an orange gem hiding in one of the pockets of his duffle bag. After a moment of confusion, he remembers buying it from a store near the Pokemon World Tournament that was carrying all sorts of Trainer gear. He's not normally one for jewelry, but the fact that it supposedly strengthens Fighting Type moves caught his attention, and he ended up throwing a pair into his shopping cart.
He thinks for a moment as he holds it up to the sun, and then he nods and turns to Pancham, "yo! Catch!" he tosses it to Boss, who perks up and nabs the stone out of the air, "next time we use your Arm Thrust, that thing'll give it some extra punch, I think. Should deal with that Crawdunt no problem!" he explains. Pancham grins mischievously at the idea of knocking out a Pokemon like that with one suped-up blow.
Jason turns his attention back to the map and unfolds it, checking it to confirm his heading, "looks like we're still good. How you feeling, Buizel? Ready for a kick-ass warmu-" he glances over to their travel companion, only to see both him and his Pokemon staring off into the forest and eventually rushing into the bushes, "huh? Hey, wait up!" he calls after them, swinging his bag back over his shoulder as he chases them down, where he sees the Machamp making lumber with it's rapid punches in the clearing.
"W-woah!" The Trainer jumps back a bit, earnestly surprised to see such a large and powerful Pokemon before him. He turns to Buizel and Boss worriedly, hoping it's not Wild before the man's laugh catches his attention. He wheels around to spot the source of the voice, and looks fairly relieved upon seeing the bulky man, "oh, uh... Alola! Some old dudes told me about you. Darla and Greg sound familiar to ya?" he asks, "they said that if we wanted to get stronger, we should come see you," he gestures between the three of them before putting his hands back in his pockets.
"This Buizel wants to get even with some punk Corphish and their boss for roughing him up, and I'm gonna be helping him out," Jason explains, "so... think you could give us some lessons? I can pay if you charge any fees or something," he says pretty straightforwardly.
At first, everything was going to plan, and Alice was delighted! Tauros didn't seem scared at all, which was good! In fact, looking as happy as he was, the bull was super, duper adorable! Seeing him lick her Pineco, though, she cringed with a grin on her face. "Ooof, sorry, Farren." She mumbled. Thankfully, he was a bug with plenty of patience, and it showed - he didn't make any motion to attack, simply squeezing his eyes shut and enduring it while Eridian did his part. In spite of his grumpy expression of neutrality, the Tauros wasn't upset at all, and the dragon eventually waved her over. She nodded, and began to walk back.
"All cool? Thanks, guys. And you're one beautiful Tauros, by the way, your human is so lucky!" Alice complimented, only to be distracted by the Bagon's keener senses. She turned to see where he was looking, and cursed grimly. Oh, for fuck's sake, of course they'd attract the problem-starter with their sweet scent as well. "Guys, brace yourselves!" She warned, one hand reaching to comfortingly and carefully touch the Tauros' mane as the digger approached... Only for the Pokemon to swallow up Farren into a hole. Alice was startled, like the Tauros, but not totally spooked. She wasn't entirely sure what to do, though. They couldn't lose the Tauros again.
"... It'll be okay. We're pretty strong, we promise. Right, Eri?" Alice looked to the dragon, who nodded, and seemed ready to fight if his trainer ordered it. She peered down the hole, thankfully able to see her Pineco. Thank goodness he was so bright! "Farren! You okay down there, buddy?"
"Pineco pine!" He answered loudly, in a way that implied he was, if not confused. A big mouth and orange? He'd feel threatened, if said orange didn't seem to look like it loved him. How odd.
"Can you use your string shot? We can catch it and pull you up!" Alice suggested, glancing to Eridian, who nodded. It seemed like a fine idea, although perhaps Tauros' tough hooves and horns would be more suited for the job. Regardless, Farren tried to angle himself to fire up a lengthy String Shot. If Eridian could catch it he could either pull or wrap it around himself and try to haul Farren out. "Try and get the Pokemon to come up with you! Let it know we're not trying to fight, I can even feed it if that's what it wants! ... Or battle it, if it prefers." She assumed she could take it. Arrogance on her part, but hey, if they couldn't then they'd find out!
Raves: You've been to the Arcane Realm a long time ago, way back when Fizzytopia was a very different place. The Realm itself has changed, even this far out in the desert lands, although most people would have no idea about that. You think the populace is foolish to forget, and your Pokemon agree with you. Reminiscing brings you comfort, which is interest, because with all of the Hells you've traversed through – literal and otherwise – you'd think it'd trigger enough PTSD for you to just curl up onto the arid ground and let it swallow you whole.
It'd be a beautiful place to die in, to be fair, which is probably a good motivator for moving your behind. Below the blanket of stars, verdant hills and steep mountains surround you, albeit far away. The Land of Cups is a silly name, but very appropriate given the terrain, and if you don't come out with leg muscles for days you might have wasted your time. This area isn't the kind for other people, which suits your solitary nature well, but you swear that in the distance you see a lone silhouette – tall, thin and without curves; but their hair is still long and black and flowing in the wind. This small desert is supposedly littered in meteorites and forgotten treasures, and rare Pokemon besides. If you don't feel like talking to them, they might not have noticed you – and they certainly aren't looking your way! - but if you do... Maybe they would know where a good adventure could be found?
TKF: The Meadow of Judgement was an appropriate place for you to train for multiple reasons, when you think about it. You were ashamed of your own behaviour back on the day when you met Adrienne, in spite of the fact that her foul nature quite frankly had it coming. She had brought the worst out of you with ease, and although you had learned your lesson, taking some time out to make sure the lesson stuck was a good plan. Your family didn't reach greatness in a day, and neither would you!
Plus, the beautiful environment was teeming with magic. Sometimes you wondered if you could smell it or taste it, although it was probably just the flowers making you all high on life or something. It was a positive place to be mindful, and you found that although the Meadow of Judgement attracted all sorts, nobody caused trouble. That was all well and good, given Adrienne had troubled you enough that your soul might have aged ten years, but it meant everyone got on with their own thing. You clearly had, because Fennekin had finally evolved into Braixen! Wasn't that amazing?
You decided that you both needed to find someone to help unlock that magical power of yours, and off you went. It was late afternoon now, but the sun was still in the sky, and you had plenty of daylight and energy left in you. There were all sorts of people to ask. There was one guy who you'd seen hanging around even before you arrived who often kept to himself, and was doing so now, lazing under a tree with his Donphan. Others were scattered about training, but another figure stood out: a brunet who was a few years older than you at best; rocking an emo sweep that 2008 would be proud of, but who usually dressed in pastels and often had a grass Pokemon at his side. He seemed to get along with all of the Pokemon and trainers who passed through here, and tended to the many flowers that saved souls for the end of days. Sure, Braixen might have an advantage over his team in a battle, but you'd already been taught that advantages weren't everything. So, what do you do?
ShadowDRGN- You return a greeting to the kindly elder gentleman, name dropping Greg and Darla so you didn't seem like some random stranger who just happened to stumble upon his house. You give him a quick run down on your situation, explaining that the elderly couple had advised you to seek him out, in hopes that some training would help the Buizel get its revenge. The old man strokes his old, grey moustache as he takes in your story, before strangely slapping both hands on his bulging belly and chuckling hardily. "It's true that I used to help kids like you train, been a while though. If you want me to come out of retirement, I'm afraid I'm going to have to see what you've got first." The old master gestures to the split log that his Machamp had just broken. "Have Buizel and Pancham take a crack at that log, one attack each should be enough for me to see what I need, even with these old eyes." He continues to chuckle, he certainly was easily amused, mostly by himself. "Oh how rude of me, I forgot to introduce myself! My name is Maleko, but most people just call me Master Mal. I used to be a Kahuna in the Alola Region but that was a while ago now." Until now you hadn't even noticed the black Z Power Ring wrapped around his left wrist. A orange-brown Z Crystal is embedded in the socket. Mal seems to notice you staring at the Z Ring and flashes it up in front of his face. "Ever seen one of these kiddo? I used to hand these out to young trainers like yourself, some were even lucky enough to earn a Fightinium Z Crystal from me like this one here." He taps the Z Crystal, causing it to flash a few times. "Z Crystals let you use Z Moves, a special move that really shows the bond you share with your Pokemon. Arceus, I'm rambling again aren't I, all this can wait for later. We're losing daylight, get over there and strike that log!"
Pancham and Buizel snap up straight as Mal suddenly raises his voice, it carried so much authority! The two were ready to show their strength, how should they go about it?
Meetan- You rush to the hole, sharing a quizzical look with the Tauros, you were both a bit confused about what had happened. You shout down the hole to Farren, who has unfortunately gone from one level of uncomfortable to another. As you call out, the Pineco rocks backwards and fires up a String Shot, seems like he really wants to get out of there....
Eridian grabs the thread and begins to pull, but it seems a little heavier than he expected. You find yourself drafted into the task, grimacing at how sticky the String Shot is as you work to pull your Pineco out of the hole. It was like deep sea fishing but on land! You had no idea what you could be dragging up, for all you knew it was more trouble. As the pink Pineco is finally pulled free from the hole, he has someone else attached to him. The big orange jaws of the Trapinch let go of the Pineco as it is dragged above ground. The little Ant Pit Pokemon shies away immediately, whimpering in fear. This didn't really feel like the sort of place you'd find a Trapinch, generally their species preferred sandy areas over forests. Eridian stands wary, not overly trusting of the Ground type. The Tauros seems fine though, perhaps it resonates with the fear in the Trapinch's eyes? From what you can tell it doesn't appear hostile, what are you going to do? The old man likely would have packed things up by now and would be desperate to get back on the road, could you afford to waste more of his time?
As Xander walked through the meadow, he couldn't help but notice another trainer, maybe a couple of years older than himself. He'd seen him around the meadow before, often in the company of some grass Pokemon. He couldn't have mistaken him either, that haircut was one of a kind! He was feeling a bit wary about approaching someone after what happened with Adrienne but he had to get over that. Maybe he just needed a different approach? The guy obviously liked Grass Pokemon, maybe he'd like to see some? Xander retrieved two Pokeballs from his belt and tossed them out, releasing two of his own Grass types. Grotle and Bayleef appeared on the lush green of the meadow, both happy to be out of their balls again. Grotle immediately cosies up to Bayleef, however the Johto Starter shies away. Grotle had taken a liking to Bayleef and not just because of her spicy scent. Bayleef however was far too bashful to embrace Grotle's affection, that wasn't to say she didn't like him. Both were shock to see that Fennekin had evolved, while the newly evolved Braixen was more than happy to show off her new look, spinning and prancing around.
Xander casually made his way over to the trainer, introducing himself as politely as humanly possible. "Hey there, my name is Xander", he had never felt like more of a dork, he might as well have written up some palm cards. "I've seen you around the meadow tending to the flowers, it looks like interesting work. My Pokemon and I have just been doing some training, my Braixen here just evolved and we were hoping to find someone that could maybe help her work on her magic skills, maybe learn a couple of new tricks?"
Alice couldn't see that Farren was getting more uncomfortable, but the fact wouldn't have surprised her had she known. Eridian was more aware, simply because Pokemon could sense these kinds of things, and Farren wasn't radiating sweetness so much as he was panic. As it was, the dragon was quick to take hold of the string shot and begin to pull, but even with his overwhelming Strength he was having problems. Alice asked the Tauros to step back a bit, just so that she could get a decent angle without tumbling into the hole in the process. When she did latch onto the leash, though, Alice loudly expressed her disgust at the feeling of the sticky, squidgy string, and as soon as they had completed their mission the blonde was wiping her hands on her clothes with a shudder and grimace.
"Farren!" Alice exclaimed in relief, only to stop and coo. "Oooh, a Trapinch!" She wasn't as worried as she had been before, because the little bug didn't seem to be rearing to go. In fact, it seemed to be the opposite, like it was frightened. How unexpected for what Alice had thought to be a troublemaker, but perhaps all of the burrowing had been impulsive behaviour. Was it scared of them or something else? "Hey, it's okay! Eridian, don't worry about them. Look, it's scared." She was about to crouch down and then stopped. They needed to help the old guy, too. "Eridian, will you take this Tauros back to the cart? And tell him I love him." She added in an overly sweet tone, petting the Pokemon's mane with the back of her hand to avoid leftover glue getting stuck in it. Alice made a kissy sound before finally crouching down, the dragon no doubt apologising to the creature before gesturing for them to go together. His trainer was the worst sometimes.
She decided to sit on the grass with Farren, who was relieved to be freed of both Tauros and also the Trapinch's jaws. He hoped it stayed that way. She took off her bag, opening it up to take out a few different treats. "We aren't going to hurt you! Tell them, Farren. If something's wrong, we can help them." She had never heard of a Trapinch out in the forest, though. The Arcane Realm was supposedly weird, but was it /this/ weird? "You seem like you're far away from home, you know. I hope you're okay."
TKF: The trainer's hair stands out to you more than anything else, although his fashion sense does the same. He has a love of pastels, matching his comfortable pink shirt with a pair of long, tan shorts that protect at least some of his legs from environmental scratches and catches. Ever since Adrienne, you've been keeping to yourself a lot more, but you know that the longer your withdrawal goes on the harder it'll be to overcome. This in mind, you approach the stranger, trying to rise over your apprehension. From cool badass to dumb dork in no time at all! Perhaps you should've swiped some flash cards or put on a name tag?
“Oh. Hey, I'm Billy. It's nice to meet you.” He offered his hand for you to shake, looking over at your grass Pokemon. It's clear that he approves of them, which isn't a surprise. One of the Pokemon he's often seen walking around with is a Meganium, and they seem close. Your Braixen earns a bigger smile, clearly entertained by her showy behaviour. It's not the dry, cold entertainment that Adrienne derived from you all, however – it's like seeing the happiness of your Pokemon brought light to his amber eyes, as if the Pokemon's joy was nourishing to the soul. Perhaps not everyone was rough around the edges after all.
“I could give you some help with that, but if you'd rather someone else, there are plenty of options.” Billy offered. “Your Braixen isn't long evolved, is she? What kind of level is her magic at now, and do you have anything specific that you want to achieve?” He's certainly asking the right kind of questions, which makes you think he has experience in such tutoring. Still, if you'd prefer to find someone who might be closer to Braixen's style (whatever that is!), Billy is willing to search. He's an open book, or so it seems! What do you do?
Meetan- Execute plan, divide and conquer! You put Eridian to task, he'd be leading the bashful bull back to its master while you and Farren remained and tried to work out what was up with this Trapinch. Eridian grumbles a few things to the Tauros, part of which is likely an apology for your fawning over it, before the pair head off in the direction you'd came. You watch as the dragon and bull leave the clearing, the Tauros's tails swishing around happily as it follows Eridian like a stray puppy. That left you sitting in the clearing with Farren, the Trapinch not too far away, still fairly cautious. As you pull out your bag, the smell of food seems to draw the Ground type in. Farren begins to talk to it as well, welcoming it in and letting it know you were here to help, not harm.
Trap pin pinch?
The bug clicks as it scuttles in closer. Eyeing off your bag. You're taken a back as the Trapinch just jams its massive head into the bag, pulling out an Iapapa Berry. The berry is quickly broken down by the Trapinch's powerful jaws, no worries Trapinch, help yourself!
Trapinch ate your Iapapa Berry!
The berry seems to satisfy the seemingly young Pokemon as it climbs into your lap and settles down. Wow, didn't take much to earn its trust! Farren rolls his eyes, he wasn't too impressed that the Trapinch had gone from biting his butt to cuddling you. You now had the Trapinch's trust and the Pokemon was clearly displaced, at least that is what you had gathered from Farren. Maybe it would be best to take it with you? Eridian would likely have made it back to the cart with Tauros by now and if anyone had an idea about where the Trapinch had come from, a local like the merchant would be your best bet.
This was already going better than last time, although Xander hoped that pink wasn't just an unlucky colour for him. Adrienne was the definition of pink, now Billy had a pink shirt? Xander quickly pushed aside his conspiracy theories, he was being ridiculous. So far Billy was the complete opposite of Adrienne, kind and full of life, not some cold heartless biatch. He seemed more than happy to meet himself and his Pokemon. Even better, he seemed to know a thing or two about magic and was willing to assist Braixen or find someone that could. "Oh she literally just evolved", Xander laughed, "she's always been a bit of a trickster though, guess that comes with her Hidden Ability, Magician." She'd used the ability to swipe Froakie's precious Expert Belt when they first met. "She has the basic moves of a Pokemon at her level, Psybeam, Fire Spin and she can also set up a Psychic Terrain!" Their bond had grown since they'd first met, it was hard to believe he'd considered letting Adrienne catch her instead. "You seem to favour Grass types right?" Xander didn't like assuming after the last incident, but the evidence was clear this time. "Being a Fire type, Braixen would love a Grass type move or two to help deal with Water, Rock and Ground Pokemon." Xander knew how useful Grass coverage was on a Fire type, it essentially let them defend themselves against their greatest weaknesses. "I know Braixen can learn Solar Beam and Grass Knot via TM, but I was hoping with some tutelage she'd be able to learn something a bit more unexpected?"
The sky above the trio twinkled with countless stars, and with the hills and mountains in sight, he could see why this area earned its name, given the cuplike nature of the small valleys. Having arrived with minimal knowledge of the Land of Cups, Alex nevertheless had known the desert apparently held numerous meteorites and unknown treasures, as well as rare pokemon who called the rugged landscape home. Nothing out of the ordinary in terms of a desert, then, but the solitude within the desert was still something to appreciate.
Alex paused for a second, squinting eyes at something in the distance. It seemed to be some sort of silhouette, seemingly human by the looks of things, with considerably long hair but no evidence of being a lady judging by the lack of prominent curves. They hadn't seemed to notice him or his companions, something that was perhaps a bit odd given that one of said companions had a perpetually burning head, while the other could be fairly easily mistaken for being shiny to the untrained eye. While uncertain of their place in the desert, they certainly struck a distinct figure among the browns and yellows, and while normally he wouldn't have paid much heed, truth be told Alex wasn't in this desert for direct monetary gain, nor was he hunting an elusive creature to recruit into his team. No, he was here with Nothung and Nuhuko solely to find something of interest to do, and to rekindle a passion for adventure, one that had slowly eroded over time. Not so much for Alex, but certainly for the Infernape, who had been itching to get out into the world a bit.
Taking a quick draw from a waterskin he had prepared, the man turned to his allies, motioning towards the figure in the distance, and with a nod and hum, the trio began to make their way to said figure, curiosity in their eyes. After all, adventure seldom came to those who weren't seeking it.
TKF: Talk about PTSD, not only were you struggling to interact with people, but the colour pink seemed to bring back all sorts of bad feelings. Did the meadow's pinker flowers upset you, too, or the Pokemon? It sounds like you need therapy. That aside, Billy was listening to you intently, nodding along, clearly interested in what you had to say. “Magician? She really does fit in well here.” Billy said at one point, but then you made your request known, and the other boy folded his arms and shifted his weight a little while he thought it over.
“Yeah, I do favour grass-type Pokemon. I actually have a Meganium, not a Grotle, though.” He added off-handedly. “I can definitely help with that, there are lots of grass-type moves that you wouldn't normally see on a Braixen but could come quite naturally to her with some work. Are you thinking more offensively or defensively? If she can set up a Psychic Terrain, setting up a Grass Type one is potentially possible, but it might come easier once she's more comfortable with handling the element. This kind of environment is perfect for that, deep in nature. Hopefully training here means she's more attuned. Just know it might be slightly harder for her to use unnatural magic outside of this place. The aether is thick here, it takes more effort elsewhere.”
He's let your party know the reality of the situation, but Billy still seems positive that he can help! Braixen isn't deterred, either. In fact, she seems more than ready to get stuck in and learn some moves that set her apart for the rest. So, if you've no second thoughts, are you ready to begin?
Raves: You didn't come here in search of a specific Pokemon or to seek riches and mysteries untold. Honestly, you just came here for an adventure. You'd been stuck in a rut for a while now, uninspired by the wandering trainer life, and your Infernape had been itching to get back out into the world – like, really out. The connection that the Desert of Stars had for you between the old and the new was thankfully inspiring more than depressing, and as if hearing your wish, said stars had gifted you an opening – although you did wonder if said opening was fucking blind. Your Pokemon's head was on fire! How had he not noticed you?!
To be fair, he was facing the other way, and once your group got close enough he clearly heard you coming. The man turned, pale moonlight shining upon his angular, chiselled face. He was tall, strong in spite of being slim, and his outfit hit you with another wave of nostalgia. It was as if Talas had spit him out from one of its richer neighbourhoods: he even had a gold band on each wrist and a few rings on long fingers. The man looked surprised to see you, but then he smiled with perfect white teeth. He'd won the genetic lottery, and had a backdrop of starlight to boot. Arceus weeps.
“Oh. Hello. I didn't expect to meet anyone this far out, especially not at this time of night.” He greeted you, ever so politely. There was something just naturally soft and airy about him, and you got the distinct feeling that if you had been someone more devious he wouldn't have stood a chance. “I've always been more of a night person myself, but it isn't exactly convenient for exploring, or keeping out of trouble in a place like this. Noone out here to hear you scream if anything goes wrong-- ah, I'm rambling.” He scratched the back of his head apologetically before dropping his hand back to his side. “Can I help you? – Were you looking for a battle? I only have three Pokemon with me, I'm afraid. I hope that isn't a problem.”
It sounds like he might have a need of you, honestly. Or by morning there might not be anything left of him, nevermind his voice box. What do you do?
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by Franco » Wed Feb 13, 2019 9:57 pm
Outside of that (because I was more than fine with the look and feel) I think there’s also something to what he said about the effect it has on the performances. That a minimal set up has a way of inspiring something new in actors.
by creedence tapes » Wed Feb 13, 2019 10:08 pm
Ok hold on the kindergarten teacher was trash, explain yourselves
creedence tapes
by tricksforchips » Wed Feb 13, 2019 10:12 pm
Franco wrote: Outside of that (because I was more than fine with the look and feel) I think there’s also something to what he said about the effect it has on the performances. That a minimal set up has a way of inspiring something new in actors.
But this isn't new or interesting, to me. And it's not like there isn't OTHER set up around. You have extras, tons of actors, set designers, PAs, etc. I guess I just don't buy it. Good actors can tune out a huge set, anyways. If you're talking about working with non-professionals who are not comfortable on a film set, then that's a different story. I think a film like Tangerine did way more interesting things with the iPhone than High Flying Bird did. Like clearly this was a way to showcase the capabilities of the actual device, but it still looked terrible lol.
by Franco » Wed Feb 13, 2019 10:24 pm
I definitely agree re: Tangerine. I’ve had lesser but similar senses of immediacy and involvement from this and Unsane though. Definitely not looking for it to be an industry or SS standard but the bare bones vibe comes across and is interesting to me warts and all.
by pana » Wed Feb 13, 2019 10:27 pm
imagine daniel day lewis acting in front of an iphone, confused
I guess I just feel like it's disingenuous for a director to call a 5 million dollar film "bare-bones" or whatever term he actually used for it.
Fair point. I don’t remember how he’s classifying it exactly off hand, more describing my experience.
creedence tapes wrote: Ok hold on the kindergarten teacher was trash, explain yourselves
It’s a good low key horror movie actually. What is the problem
by furrowed brow » Wed Feb 13, 2019 10:42 pm
okay but you have to go first.
by neely o'hara » Wed Feb 13, 2019 11:01 pm
tricksforchips wrote:
Franco wrote: There was an interview posted today in the Soderbergh/high flying bird thread where he talks about the benefits of shooting that way - mainly logistics and opening up the possibility to happen upon new locations. Not to mention the fact the movie wouldn’t have gotten made if there was a large unwieldy crew
Yeah, Soderbergh has long given interviews like this and talked about the democratization of cinema and that's why he uses the iPhone... also its ease of use. But it's not like digital cinema outside of the iPhone entirely requires massive crews. It's all so advanced. Anyone with basic camera knowledge can operate a RED or an Alexa Mini or even a Blackmagic camera. They all look infinitely better than an iPhone even in natural light.
The film cost 5 million dollars to make, having 3 camera assistants wouldn't break the bank. If you're talking about the democratization of cinema, you should make a movie with an iPhone for 50$. As far as I'm concerned, if your budget is that high, you are using the iPhone as a gimmick and that's it -- even if you say otherwise. It's posturing.
even the most basic camera package can become unwieldy and expensive, and more so when you add in grip equipment, dollies, cranes. DPs love to add in as much expensive/bulky equipment as they possibly can - i don't blame them, but they can easily sink a budget and eat up time on set.
i don't love soderbergh's iphone cinematography (haven't seen high flying bird, thought unsane looked OK), but he clearly knows the exact money value of paying a 1st AC to pull focus vs. poking a screen and instantly doing it. and i think someone working at soderbergh's level (vs. gritty non-union indie filmmaking) has to make very bold decisions if they want to not get bogged down by the built-in costs of using experienced labor.
neely o'hara
Fair enough. I watched it with someone who works with children who are often developmentally disabled, emotionally challenged or have very insecure home lives. They pointed out that the movie sets up a lot of very convenient ways to avoid showing what would realistically happen were that kid to be displaying some of the tendencies they had. Obviously, yea, this could happen, and does, kids don’t get the help they need all the time. But the movie wants to tell a very specific version of that story that foregrounds a supremely self-involved character whose pretentious ass midlife crisis eclipses any other point the movie was trying to make. Like it took a completely silent teachers aid character, a clueless babysitter, a confusingly portrayed single dad, and at least one supremely dumb parent of a classmate to allow this plot to happen. To me, that says the movie was way more concerned with emperors new clothes literary world jabs, turn your stomach but ultimately toothless pedophilia baiting (which is supposed to be the low key horror you’re referring to?), and maybe a bit of private school send-up then engaging with the Macguffin of a child they wrote. Fuck all this, what’s the point.
Maggie G is fine in it, but the wardrobe and the Subaru she drives are more cliche then the rich details the movie thinks they are. The whole thing felt very impressed with itself for setting up a a taut slow-burner but really the strings being pulled are way too visible.
lol, good post. Yeah, I was going to pass over the central premise entirely because I'm not on the spectrum and I don't know anything about it, but yeah, the plot is very regressive in that way. The "low key horror movie" comment I assume refers to how this is a movie about someone who is batshit insane. The film plays with our expectations of Hollywood films; it sets us up for a supremely unrealistic savior story, dripping with emotional manipulation and self-impressed controversy-baiting pontifications and then it pulls the rug out from under us and exposes the perverse core of its character/itself. The amount of self-awareness this movies has is key in whether or not it is a triumph or a disaster; you decide how generous you'll be with the filmmakers.
Last edited by furrowed brow on Thu Feb 14, 2019 12:33 am, edited 1 time in total.
You're right about a lot of things lining up to make the ending possible but I think her aid and Becca are realistically characterized and believable.
by naturemorte » Thu Feb 14, 2019 4:59 am
About to fly out of Berlin after my first Berlinale. I ended up sticking almost entirely to the Retrospective, Forum and Forum Expanded programs which was probably a mistake--I'm getting super tired of bog-standard "experimental" films and toothless political documentaries. The dominant modes are just SO dominant--revisiting earlier political histories through unusual archives, landscapes with voiceovers, "spontaneous" 16mm footage of beautiful people, and drones, so many fucking drones...Feel like I did a lot of running to stand still overall--hitting five or six programs per day, of which maybe one or two didn't feel like mistakes. I wish I was a little more adventurous when it comes to going blind into the Panorama section stuff, but bland arthouse shit drives me up the wall too.
Anyway, the Schanelec is the only thing I saw that felt like a masterpiece, and I was very cool on The Dreamed Path. Heimat Is A Space In Time, a 4-hour essay film that rehearses the last century of East/German history (through landscape shots and personal archives!) is pretty good, but the visual motifs (crowds! trains! ruins! more trains, and more still!) are more than exhausted by the end. Bait was good, but is smashing the novelty buttons (it's shot with black-and-white 16mm, hand-processed, and edited like a Pudovkin film or something) really hard for what is narratively a die-stamped British Class Politics movie. "Just Don't Think I'll Scream" is an interesting found-footage film made mostly out of insert shots from obscure films--the only thing I consciously recognized was "Funeral Parade of Roses". I most hipinion members would, like me, identify deeply with the film's subject, about the difficulty of excavating oneself from out of the self-constructed caves of media, weed and despair we constuct to shield ourselves from the shittiness of the current moment, but that's what makes it kind of uninteresting as found footage. Every shot relates primarily to the narration and to the emotional identification of the narrator with that image, and so thee images rarely interact with one another in meaningful or challenging ways. Of the new films I saw, only Ute Aurand's "Rushing Green with Horses" really made me think in any exciting way--i think I need to write something about it. If the older films I saw, Marta Meszaros' "Adoption" was the only knockout for me.
by Franco » Thu Feb 14, 2019 6:52 am
Re: Kindergarten Teacher. I used “horror” as a reference to Lisa’s increasingly blinding quest to chase this one thing, no matter the consequences or criminality. This is a dangerous place to be as a viewer when expected actions and circumstances start to not line up and the nature of her obsession is not fully revealed.
I also, admittedly, used “horror” as a lazy shorthand way of saying “I forgive the movie’s imperfections because once they present Lisa’s ride, that’s where I am, so let’s see where they want to land this plane.”
There was enough to Lisa and why she may have been that way that to me graduated out of a simple midlife crisis. But to creedence’s point, i could see those details lacking and the systemic depiction too unrealistic if you were thinking about them more than I was. Or more than the movie was, perhaps to its detriment.
by tricksforchips » Thu Feb 14, 2019 7:00 am
neely o'hara wrote:
Soderbergh already shoots all of his stuff himself, regardless of whether it's an iPhone or not. In recent years he IS the camera crew. He IS the DP. When you're working with a 5 million dollar budget, the cost/benefit does not really matter for the types of films Soderbergh is making.
I disagree that the most basic camera package can become unwieldy. Sure, if you go all out you will need assistants. And I'm sure Soderbergh even had one for the iPhone (making sure the app is working right, cleaning the lens, etc). It's easy to leave that out of the narrative. But the RED is a very easy to use camera. For reference, I'm shooting my new documentary on a RED weapon. We're a three person crew. Soderbergh shot RED on Side Effects and was DP and cam-op.
If he just said "I like the images that the iPhone makes" I wouldn't have so much of an issue with his use of the iPhone. Instead he uses it as a platform to talk about the democratization of cinema and that is not what he's doing with his films as the budget he's working with is completely inaccessible to most up-and-coming filmmakers.
by walt whitman » Thu Feb 14, 2019 7:43 am
naturemorte wrote: About to fly out of Berlin after my first Berlinale. I ended up sticking almost entirely to the Retrospective, Forum and Forum Expanded programs which was probably a mistake--I'm getting super tired of bog-standard "experimental" films and toothless political documentaries. The dominant modes are just SO dominant--revisiting earlier political histories through unusual archives, landscapes with voiceovers, "spontaneous" 16mm footage of beautiful people, and drones, so many fucking drones...Feel like I did a lot of running to stand still overall--hitting five or six programs per day, of which maybe one or two didn't feel like mistakes. I wish I was a little more adventurous when it comes to going blind into the Panorama section stuff, but bland arthouse shit drives me up the wall too.
thanks for report on berlinale
was there any VR cinema worth mentioning?
i was at sundance this year and while they had a lot of VR filmmaking, it was extremely small scale and nearly impossible to access (unless you wanted to wait in line for hours and hours). not sure if i missed anything tho- the descriptions of the works sounded like run-of-the-mill "gallery films" though without a critical posture, from what i could tell
sadly there are few platforms for this area of moving image art- again, i can't tell if the FOMO is real, or it is still too young to be good
“Short film, Long film, It’s ALL film!” - Walt Whitman
Location: pitt
by someguy » Thu Feb 14, 2019 7:55 am
The Kohlberger short at Berlin is good
someguy wrote: The Kohlberger short at Berlin is good
bummed i missed this–i liked "keep that dream burning" and imagine this would have played amazingly on some of the festival's massive screens
hoping it's at Ann Arbor this year
didn't see any VR stuff, ww. i don't go out of my way to see vr cinema, even if i thought something sounded interesting, it's way outside the purview of my programming.
by Plainsong » Fri Feb 15, 2019 1:23 am
Diary Of A Chambermaid (1964)- Luis Bunuel
Really liked it.
Duelle (1976)- Jacques Rivette
Found it really fascinating and liked it overall.
Equinox Flower (1958)- Yasujiro Ozu
Loved it. Found it amazing how confident Ozu was with colour so early on.
Father Of The Bride (1950)- Vincent Minnelli
Loved it. Tracy and Taylor's performances were perfect.
by warmjets » Fri Feb 15, 2019 11:21 am
saw it in the theaters but had to watch it again when i saw that it was released digitally.
christ what an achievement. i did a little bit of bouldering/rock climbing when i lived out west so i feel like i know a little bit about the technical shit involved and it is completely fucking insane that he did this. and in under 4 hours! he is a freak of nature, but he is still rolling the dice everytime he solos something like that. i wonder if he will be able to walk away from the sport alive. i dont know if he ever wants to stop though.
warmjets
by antoine » Fri Feb 15, 2019 5:00 pm
Prometheus - I still like this movie even though it has a lot of problems. I wouldn't say it's a Good Movie but I find it extremely entertaining, especially the goofy parts. Also the visuals and world Ridley created are A+.
Alien Covenant - Not as good as Prometheus and again, tons of problems but I still find this movie enjoyable. Visuals are again top notch. The last act with the boring cgi xenomorph is so flat and shitty though. That's my biggest knock against it. Also somehow the characters are even more cardboard than in Prometheus. I still like it though.
On the whole I love the Alien franchise/universe, despite how uneven and dumb it can be.
by aububs » Fri Feb 15, 2019 5:27 pm
uhhh wow thank you to whoever put this in the db. it's incredible. goes from really well observed teen hijinks to deep drama to pure terror, dern is astonishing right out the gate, climactic scene hovering between reality and dream/nightmare, forshadowing dern's work with lynch (blue velvet was her next movie), tightly written, confident....p much faultless. this movie doesn't fuck around. probably one of the best 80s teen dramas i've seen.
by spix et chicho » Fri Feb 15, 2019 6:58 pm
Prometheus is definitely better than Covenant which is fucking nuts because Prometheus is a truly dumb ass flick
CIARA IS DEFIANTLY A MAN AND ITS DISGUSTING MY CUZIN WAS THROWING UP FOR 2 WEEKSM YUUUUUUUUCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCKKKKKKKKKKK PLEASE SIGN THIS B/C THATS JSUT HERENDOUZ
spix et chicho
by goofjan » Sat Feb 16, 2019 3:16 pm
I have the goddamn flu but a wonderful side effect is temporary relief of my usual "can't choose something to watch" ADD. I turned on the TV, randomly clicked on Murder on the Orient Express (1974) and away I went.
Super balmy movie in a lot of ways. I didn't know the story at all, so the ending really surprised me even though in retrospect it's very obvious. Incredible performances but a lot of thick accents so subtitles were helpful. Finney is so sublimely irritating as Poirot and I guess that's the point but it took me about an hour to calibrate. Really enjoyed this one- couldn't pay me to see the remake.
imdb trivia has this nugget:
Since Albert Finney required many hours of make-up procedures before shooting each day, and because he was performing in a stage play at the same time, he didn't have much time for his badly needed sleep. A daily routine was developed, where an ambulance arrived to pick up the sleeping actor at his house, in his pajamas, carefully, trying not to wake him up. During the half hour commute to the studio, the make-up artists would begin the rough work on his face. The rest of the fine detail work was completed at the studio on a still sleeping Finney.
plz if u get a chanse put some flowrs on algernons grave kthxbye
goofjan
Location: Searing Gas Pain Land
by pana » Sat Feb 16, 2019 3:18 pm
i bet that's what killed him
pana wrote: i bet that's what killed him
Look at Poirot over here.
by Honga Ciganesta » Sun Feb 17, 2019 8:33 am
Somehow only got around to this, incredible movie. Maybe the best. I wish I was watching it again right now
Honga Ciganesta
by Plainsong » Sun Feb 17, 2019 8:43 am
Flesh And The Devil (1926)- Clarence Brown
Really loved it, Garbo, Gilbert, and Hanson all gave brilliant performances.
Gaslight (1944)- George Cukor
Really liked it and loved all the performances, especially Boyer's and Bergman's performances.
Grand Hotel (1932)- Edmund Goulding
Loved it. All the performances were brilliant.
He Who Gets Slapped (1924)- Victor Sjostrom
Morbid as hell and I loved it.
by Repo » Sun Feb 17, 2019 9:15 am
Honga Ciganesta wrote:
there's a moment when tina weymouth is smiling while playing this song, one of my favourite moments in time
http://ungranfollon.blogspot.com.es
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Board index Book Specific Discussions (Contains Spoilers and many nuts) Sennadar Universe
On chp 18, Axe of the Dwarven King, a question.
Caution, Spoilers
The new home for all the older Sennadar books, and the Legacy stories.
Please Read the forum rules.
Not a ID
Post by Not a ID » Sat Jun 30, 2018 5:56 pm
When the 10th sui'kun was born(Keritanima's son), Tarrin starts worrying about his having been replaced. Which is odd, considering he was told back in the Firestaff series that there were going to be 10 sui'kun after all was said and done. 7 to maintain the weave, and 3 "as spares" in himself, Spyder, and Jasana.
Now granted, a little later it is mentioned in a discussion between some of the Gods that one of them had "tampered" with his mind a little bit, which is why I didn't immediately ask about it upon noticing that. However, after the end of the Pyrosia story-arc, that particular matter(that there were always supposed to be 10) never came up, even though Tarrin continued to keep fixating on his having been replaced(because there were 10 sui'kun on/from Sennadar) throughout much of the rest of the series.
Rakshasa claw
Re: On chp 18, Axe of the Dwarven King, a question.
Post by Rakshasa claw » Sun Jul 01, 2018 3:33 am
Not sure I see a question in there... but it was originally planned to be 9 or 10 actually. At least that's what I recall. And to be fair, up until he reveals to Ayise his plan to free himself of the corruption of the Firestaff he was going to be expendable... so the 10th really was actually intended as his replacement. Note that she (Ayise) makes it quite clear to Niami that Tarrin will not be permitted to return to Sennadar, not any of the others that go to Pyrosia... no. Just Tarrin. She also was going to destroy him when he touched the All upon his return to Sennadar and ordered Spyder to destroy him or deny him access to Sennadar. His surrender to her, and his willingness to strip his lingering godhood from himself was all that saved him in that moment.
Post by Not a ID » Sun Jul 01, 2018 7:29 pm
Yeah, kind of failed on the question part of it. Title was written before the post, what was written drifted away from initial intent.
Subsequently digging through the archives elsewhere, I see someone else pointed out the 10th Sui'kun issue a looong time ago, and it also went unaddressed at the time. He however, didn't acknowledge that a Deity had been meddling in Tarrin's head shortly before then.
In the Firestaff series, which was written well before Axe of the Dwarven King, IIRC Spyder was the one who said (To Tarrin and Jenna) there were going to be 10 Sui'kun after all was said and done. 7 for each of the elements of the weave, and 3 as backups and work that needed to be done "outside of normal channels" or something to that effect. She specifically named herself and Tarrin as 2 of them, and at some point in the course of the Firestaff series, Jasana was named as the one who would be the third "spare" as it were. I'm fuzzy on if that happened at the same time, or later on. In either case, Tarrin was aware of this.
Which makes what happened in Chapter 18 of Axe of the Dwarven King and after that a bit odd. He knew there were going to be 10, so why did he suddenly start fretting after the 10th one turned up? Divine Meddling certainly accounts for how/why that happened, but it is mildly annoying that Fel probably deliberately added in the plot element, as I'm sure that shift was deliberate and not an error on his part, but it then is left hanging out there in the breeze and never seems to be addressed afterwords.
In some respects, I can understand how/why that happened, at least with what is written. Tarrin(either one of them) realizing one of the Elder Gods of Sennadar tampered with his memory in such a way would be likely to have unpredictable results to say the least.
Yes, it set in motion a chain of events that needed to happen, but the nature of how it was done would still be a major issue for him IMO. An alternate option is that The Overgod told Tarrin after all was said and done, and kept Tarrin otherwise occupied until after Tarrin was given plenty of time to cool down.
Besides which, with 9 Sui'kun in Niami's service besides Tarrin, there was no urgent need to replace Tarrin until after his situation was fully resolved. It took the Breaking for the other gods to agree to allowing Niami the "3 spares" she was given, and until Tarrin's situation was resolved, I doubt they were going to create any scenario where she could possibly end up with 4 spare Sui'kun. After all, they'd waited several years to get to 10 after having reached 8. So while they agreed that having the spares was important, keeping the count at 10 wasn't an OMG emergency either. Or keeping it at 9 for that matter, as Jasana wound up over in Pyrosia with Tarrin for a time, which took the Sui'kun count on Sennadar down to 8 for several months.
Of course, with other comments made on that front(when establishing the new Tower on Pyrosia), evidently it may not be particularly critical for more than "a handful" of the Sui'kun to physically be on Sennadar. Their simply being alive and "out there somewhere" might be enough for most purposes... And given Tarrin's unique circumstances, his specific location probably matters even less than it does for any of the rest of the Sui'kun when it comes to being connected to Sennadar's Weave.
So basically, the Gods had no intention or need of replacing him until he was either truly and permanently dead, or otherwise "fully disconnected from Sennadar" by some means.
Post by Rakshasa claw » Mon Jul 02, 2018 12:47 am
Well, he wouldn't have been connected to the Weave when he first left Sennadar. He wasn't uniquely connected until after he removed the lingering divinity. She replaced that divinity with a touch of her power and gave him wings that way to replace his lost ones. I agree there are plot consistency concerns but it seems mostly trivial to me. The overall story doesn't lose that much from the issue.
Post by Not a ID » Tue Jul 03, 2018 1:23 am
Rakshasa claw wrote: ↑
Uh, it was subsequently revealed, during Book 2 in the Pyrosian series, IIRC, that he did not need the Sword in order to channel sorcery from Sennadar, and that he was essentially just using it as a focus for doing so. It was a very distant, and weak connection, but it was a connection all the same. IE it was Tarrin who was connected to the weave when the channeling happened, not the sword.
Now after his death, he was no longer attached to the weave, although the sword(as a part of Tarrin's divine self), and possibly his Shadow, may have had a lingering connection all the same... And by the time the Sword and the Shadow were addressed, the fully mortal Sui'kun Tarrin Kael had already been back around for a while.
Which isn't to mention the other matter that was explicitly brought up in regards to the Crossed Sorcerers going to stay over in Pyrosia in numbers shortly after the Weave was created in Pyrosia. As the question was directly asked about whether their departure to Pyrosia would weaken the weave in Sennadar. The answer was essentially that the weave wouldn't be weakened unless or until they happened to die, without respect to what world they were on, the power they contributed to the weave would be unchanged, only their ability to draw from the weave would change(as they'd both need a weave in order to use the weave, and would deal with the typical weave power constraints from there). As such, it is reasonable that at least elements of the weave with regards to the Sui'kun specific items would likewise persist in the weave so long as that Sui'kun remained living, even if they were not actually present on Sennadar. That isn't to say that they really want to ever be in a position where they have 7 or fewer Sui'kun physically present on Sennadar ever again, even if all 10 of them are alive when they did so.
Post by Rakshasa claw » Tue Jul 03, 2018 9:42 pm
The sorcery I was talking about wasn't connected to his sword. I was referring to Niami giving him the wings, which allows him to use sorcery regardless of where he goes. I was ignoring the divine impact of him drawing sorcery from Sennadar into Pyrosia. That was after all, purely an artifact of his being a demigod not something special or inherent to Tarrin himself... except that he is the only being on Sennadar to ever become a demigod of course.
And the Sui'kun effect is linked to the world on which they stand. Otherwise Tarrin being on Pyrosia to create his weave wouldn't have needed Jasana to change worlds when he died... because he would still have been linked to Sennadar still and thus unable to "power" the Weave on Pyrosia that way. Which to me implies that a different set of rules would need to have been created for Pyrosia's Weave. This doesn't impact the power they provided to the weave, because that happened at a specific point in time. That moment of course is when they crossed over and thus that is directly linked to the world upon which they cross over, not the world upon which they stand. My interpretation of course, but unless Fel says otherwise it seems reasonable to me.
Post by Not a ID » Wed Jul 04, 2018 4:04 pm
The "Sui'kun effect" in respect to Pyrosia is a bit more complicated than that. Pyrosia's circumstance was that there was no Deity anchoring the weave as was the case in Sennadar(where Niami was present), so it required somebody to step in to fulfill the role. Dolana was fulfilling the role of Anchor(/"Heart"), and she wasn't even a Sui'kun. What Jasana's presence in Pyrosia was there to do was to stabilize the weave and reduce the strain on Dolana, and that simply required her to be close to the weave on Pyrosia. Yes, they kept her there even after Tarrin's Deity half took up the role of God there and began oversight of The Heart, but its ambiguous on if that(Jasana's presence) was absolutely required at that point, or simply done to help "boost" the weave on Pyrosia enough for the Sorcerer's to accomplish other tasks in the interim, or Tarrin(Deity) and Niami simply playing it safe. Given Sennadar's history, it is apparent that the Weave on Sennadar existed even before there were Sui'kun, as Spyder was evidently the first Sui'Kun. So it would seem the only thing a Sui'kun achieves by being present when a deity is overseeing the weave is to strengthen it.
Kacoo
Post by Kacoo » Tue Aug 07, 2018 3:57 am
There is no hint that Spyder was the first Sui'kun, and its probably more likely that she wasn't, and is just the only one that survived the breaking (eg because she was the Tarrin of her time and was made to combat the blood war) she survived. Correct me if i'm wrong but that seems like a lot more likely than her being the first Sui;kin when her race isn't even one of the originals (eg humans, dwarves, goblins and elves).
Belgarion213
Da'Shar
Post by Belgarion213 » Tue Aug 07, 2018 6:52 am
I think your right in that Spyder wasn't the first. That said, she was born to deal with Val/The Blood War, just as Tarrin was born to deal with the Firestaff and Val.
As for how she survived, my view would be that it was her ability to warp the world that let her survive...or Niami realised what was happening and told her to leave the plane through the Portal to survive the Weave-quake.
Kendog
Post by Kendog » Sun May 12, 2019 12:24 am
While it's a bit late, another thing to keep in mind is that while the other gods were pre-planning to replace Tarrin in the Weave, at that point, he was an anomaly, at best, with the gods concerned about maybe needing to destroy him. After everything was "said and done", while the end result was likely Niami having 11 suikins, instead of the 10 originally planned, Tarrin was often "elsewhere" dealing with things for the "God of Gods"/Creator of Everything. There are likely many situations during his service where having a connection to Senneddar would be "bad" that the Overgod wouldn't "want". As a result, while the end result was 11, there was likely some behind the scenes influence by the Overgod, okaying it. Plus, as said by Fel in either this thread or elsewhere, when Tarrin does end up dying for good/permanently, he would be rejoining his "godly half" of his soul.
Wolfee
Mi'Shara
Contact Wolfee
Post by Wolfee » Fri May 17, 2019 3:28 am
Kendog wrote: ↑
You are forgetting Tarrin's 2nd pair of wings the ones that Niami gave him - they are a conduit back to Sennadar so he can always touch the weave. And don't forget this is Tarrin we are talking about.
Return to “Sennadar Universe”
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Local teacher facing child porn charges had another job working closely with young girls
Posted 7:06 pm, January 15, 2020, by Shannon O'Brien, Updated at 07:30PM, January 15, 2020
KANSAS CITY, Mo -- A metro man charged with having hundreds of illegal pictures of children held jobs as a substitute teacher and a classroom paraprofessional.
But FOX4 has learned Shawn McNair also held another job that put him in contact with kids.
McNair has been a gymnastics coach at Champions Gymnastics Academy in Raytown, and parents of athletes there are freaked out about the accusations.
"I was just like shaking, and my stomach was upset and I just -- it was just an 'ah-ha' moment. Like, I knew it, I knew it," Jamie Driskoll said of her reaction after learning the man she knows as Coach Shawn had been charged with possession of child pornography.
Investigators allegedly found 31 pictures and 293 videos of suspected child porn on McNair's cell phone and computer.
Driskoll's child attends Champions Gymnastics Academy where McNair was a coach for two years. She said he gave her the creeps after an incident where she saw McNair tickle her daughter. She didn't allow McNair near the child after that.
"I did not like him from the start. There was just vibes," Driskoll said. "I told my husband at one point it even felt like he was kind of flirting with the girls, which that was a red flag to me. And I hate using that word. Now knowing what I know, that's probably what he was doing."
McNair was arrested Tuesday outside of his home in Lake Tapawingo, Missouri. The teacher and gymnastics coach was charged with five counts of possession of child pornography, for having videos of prepubescent girls.
"The older kids he definitely paid more attention, especially like in the nine and 10 age. I could tell his interaction with those girls in the gym was just a little bit more interested in them," Driskoll said.
Gym management released the following statement that was also emailed to parents:
We at Champions Gymnastics Academy are devastated to learn of Shawn McNair's legal issues. Shawn was terminated immediately upon our knowledge of the matter. CGA was never aware Shawn had any legal issues, especially regarding children. A background check was ran at time of hire.
We are in process of trying to figure out why we were not alerted sooner of the investigation. This is upsetting for not only our clients and employees, but also for the Blue Springs and Raytown communities.
Our top priority is maintaining the health and safety of our students and employees. A background check is ran on all new employees. We will continue to work to provide a safe environment for your student to grow and learn.
If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, you are encouraged to contact the gym directly.
Driskoll trusts the folks at Champions Gymnastics Academy had no idea what was going on with McNair, so she's not taking her daughter out of the program.
"I hope there's not more to the story. I really hope there's not more to the story," she said.
McNair has been charged with crimes for having child porn. At this point, there's no indication he actually took pictures or videos of young girls.
Former metro substitute teacher charged with child pornography possession
Click here to tell FOX 4!
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Soldier surprises his mom while she’s honored as a resource officer after he was deployed for two years
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credit: Virgin Atlantic / Barbie
Virgin Atlantic teams up with Barbie to encourage STEM and aviation careers for girls
by Katrina September 11, 2019, 4:56 pm
Virgin Atlantic has joined forces with Barbie UK to inspire younger girls to follow careers in STEM and aviation.
Over the years, Barbie has had over 200 careers and in her 60th year she will be adding three new roles to her roster – a pilot, engineer, and cabin crew – as she continues to inspire girls to believe that anything is possible.
The dolls have been designed to reflect the likeness of real Virgin Atlantic uniforms whilst also showing ethnic and body diversity. The pilot doll wears a uniform complete with wings and a badge, and also has articulated ankles and flat shoes. The engineer doll boasts flat safety boots, an access lanyard and noise cancelling headphones, whilst the cabin crew doll pays homage to the iconic red Virgin Atlantic Vivienne Westwood uniform.
As it stands, the dolls are one-of-a-kind however, later in the year it is expected that the pilot and crew dolls will be sold on board Virgin Atlantic flights and will also be available in key retail partners.
Virgin Atlantic and Barbie’s collaboration marks the start of a wider initiative to encourage more women in STEM and aviation careers. According to current statistics from the Women’s Engineering Society, only 12% of the UK engineering workforce is female. Furthermore, only 4.3% of UK pilots are women, with the aviation sector in particular dominated by men.
Alongside Virgin Atlantic’s charity partner, WE, the Passport for Change programme aims to inspire young people to engage with STEM subjects and consider a future in aviation. In order to do this, there will be an annual Future Flyer open day in their HQ and school visits and trips to their engineering hangars. Barbie will also be used an an educational tool, with on-board Barbie content in addition to a #SeeHerFly social media campaign.
Barbie itself also has its own campaign called the Dream Gap Project, which was launched after research concluded that girls begin to doubt their potential from as young as five years old. The campaign aims to level the playing field for girls globally.
Speaking about the campaign, Phil Maher, EVP Operations for Virgin Atlantic, stated: “It’s essential that Virgin Atlantic plays a pivotal role in encouraging women to succeed in STEM careers. It’s evident that for those women who do become pilots and engineers, career satisfaction is exceptionally high, and it’s no surprise that job satisfaction is exceptionally high. It’s essential we showcase to girls of all ages just how fulfilling a career in our industry can be and our partnership with Barbie is just one of the steps we’re undertaking to achieve this.”
President of the Women’s Engineering Society, Dawn Childs, added: “The fact so many young girls narrow their career prospects from an early age by believing that some roles and jobs simply are not for them is a tragedy. It’s not just a tragedy for them, but it denies businesses 50% of the potential future talent pool at a time when the engineering skills gap is widening and unsustainable. This fabulous initiative will help to normalise seeing women in these vital roles, and help them aim high in their future career aspirations.”
For information on aviation careers with Virgin Atlantic, click here.
Written by Katrina
twenty-something charity shop manager and aspiring journalist with a penchant for boybands. Email: katrinanaomirees@gmail.com
PÜR x Barbie – We finally have the chance to do our make up like her!
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Cadbury Dairy Milk unveils wordless chocolate bar in support of Age UK
Keke Palmer makes her New York Fashion Week runway debut
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Neonatal Unit to Expand
Lao Friends Hospital for Children has the region’s only neonatal care unit.
Photo by Kenro Izu
Admissions to our Neonatal Unit have exceeded expectations.
LFHC opened the unit in an area that provided space for 6-8 beds. Hospital administrators anticipated that a unit of that size would be sufficient for several years. However, community awareness of our Neonatal Unit and an increase in the local birth rate sparked a surprising number of admissions soon after the unit opened. Furthermore, LFHC admits neonates who would otherwise have been discharged from other hospitals with an expectation that they could not survive.
By mid-2017, the neonatal caseload was taking up 10-12 beds a month and in October the numbers peaked at 15 newborn babies. Our resourceful doctors and nurses made room for the additional neonatal beds in isolated areas with the Emergency Room and Inpatient Department of the hospital. Needless to say, the situation was less than ideal.
Hospital Administrator Simon Young and his staff brainstormed ideas to find a more permanent solution to the lack of bed-space in the Neonatal Unit. In January, he announced that an agreement had been reached with the Luang Prabang Provincial Health Department and the Luang Prabang Provincial Hospital which will result in the relocation of our Neonatal Unit inside the adjacent provincial hospital.
Friends Without A Border will incur expenses related to the move and the renovation of the space being provided by the provincial hospital. Our Neonatal Unit will move into an area that had been occupied by the hospital’s pediatric ward. The hospital recently closed its pediatric ward, leaving LFHC as the ONLY children’s hospital in northern Laos. The vacated area is structurally sound, but will need such renovations as new electrical power, water and internet capabilities.
By relocating our Neonatal Unit to the adjacent provincial hospital (75 meters away) we double our bed-space and gain room to better serve the parents of these infants. Plans call for 8 beds in a general neonatal ward, 4 more beds for high-dependency infants and a 4-bed step-down area for babies who need low-intensity, but long-term care. The unit will also feature a resting room for parents and a breastfeeding room exclusive to nursing mothers. Plans also call for a clinic area, where discharged neonates can be reviewed, a staff education area and storage space.
NY Gala Embraces ‘Making A Difference’ Theme
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Home News Boyz N The Hood Director John Singleton Dead at Age 51
Boyz N The Hood Director John Singleton Dead at Age 51
Blueprince Tue Apr, 2019
Oscar-nominated American director and writer of Boyz N The Hood, John Singleton passed away at the age of 51 on Monday, 29th September 2019.
John's family informed Fox News that the former director had "passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family and friends."
They said in a statement,
We want to thank the amazing doctors at Cedars-Sinai Hospital for their expert care and kindness and we again want thank all of John’s fans, friends and colleagues for all of the love and support they showed him during this difficult time,
Earlier on Monday, John's family announced that they had taken the decision to remove Singleton from life support.
The family informed that the decision had been made,
over a number of days, with the careful counsel of John's doctors.
They further added,
John Singleton is a prolific, ground-breaking director who changed the game and opened doors in Hollywood, a world that was just a few miles away, yet worlds away, from the neighborhood in which he grew up,
The Boyz N The Hood director had been in a coma after suffering a heart stroke 12 days earlier.
I was discovered by a master filmmaker by the name of John Singleton. He not only made me a movie star but made me a filmmaker. There are no words to express how sad I am to lose my brother, friend & mentor. He loved bring the black experience to the world. ..Us at Cannes ‘90 pic.twitter.com/CaRKjZtjgB
— Ice Cube (@icecube) April 29, 2019
The family had previously revealed John's medical condition, but few details had been given about the seriousness of his health.
Monday's statement read as follows,
John loved nothing more than giving opportunities to new talent and his films came to be known for career-making roles with actors who the industry would come to embrace; talents such as Tupac Shakur, Regina King, Cuba Gooding Jr., Terrence Howard, Ice Cube, Tyrese and Taraji P. Henson.
As per his family, Singleton quietly struggled with hypertension.
During his career, John Singleton was responsible for directing movies like Poetic Justice, 2 Fast 2 Furious, Boyz N The Hood, and Rosewood and many others.
Cube,John Singleton, 2Pac & Me.
Poetic Justice Wrap party which I had a barely noticeable part in that JOHN told me I was to good for,I told him I would do Craft Service on the film.He also told me one day I’ll give you a a great part & he did on Higher Learning.#JohnSingleton pic.twitter.com/ZuvdXraZgK
— MichaelRapaport (@MichaelRapaport) April 29, 2019
John Singleton was born on 6th January 1969 and was 51 years of age when died on 29th April 2019 at Cedars-Sinai Hospital.
# Boyz n the Hood
# dead
# John Singleton
# John Singleton dead
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Genesis Games launches Year of the Rat for 2020’s Lunar New Year that packs with limitless multiplier free spins
Genesis Games launched Year of the Rat, a new game to celebrate the Lunar New Year of 2020. Year of the Rat is the 10th game under the Radi8 series.
Year of the Rat is a 3×5, 50 lines slot game that features a progressive multiplier free spin bonus that allows players to win big. During free spins, players can rack up multiplier wins starting from 2x with a Double Wild appearing on any reel. 3, 4 or 5 scatters symbols will trigger a 12, 15 or 20 free spins respectively. Free spin bonuses can be re-triggered, creating an endless potential of spins and multipliers on all wins.
Year of the Rat is supported by Rad+, a one-of- a kind feature that offers an innovative loyalty coin bonus ecosystem across all Radi8 games. Loyalty coins can be used to purchase a variety of in-game boosters and recently launched loot box, giving the player a sense of control and greater participation.
“If you’ve ever stood amid a buzzing Lunar New Year festival, you really feel the energy flow through you from the sounds and sites all around. We wanted to ring in the beginning of the new year by delivering a rich, festive experience where rattling fireworks and energetic drums are front and center of the game play. Wilds that double winning pays in both the base and bonus games along with a progressive multiplier free spin round really amplifies the winning experience. We put in a lot of time and effort to offer for our players not just a slot game, but a true celebration experience,” commented Peyman Zadeh, Director of Products.
This is a Syndicated News piece. Photo credits or photo sources can be found on the source article: Genesis Games launches Year of the Rat for 2020’s Lunar New Year that packs with limitless multiplier free spins
DATA.BET announces official ICE Launch
Prague Gaming Summit 2020 to bring forward-thinking topics and ideas for the gaming industry
UKGC: Games warning for online operators
Online gambling operators are being reminded to check that their games meet transparency and safety standards expected by the Gambling Commission.
The reminder follows discovery that six operators were offering products providing ‘feature buy-in’ facilities on slots style games. This facility gave consumers the option of staking significant amounts of money to access the bonus feature without playing the initial stages of the game. One game was charging more than £3,000 to enter the bonus feature.
The Commission’s remote gambling and software technical standards contain the following requirements:
RTS requirement 3A: An explanation of the applicable rules must be easily available to the customer before they commit to gamble. The content including artwork and text must be accurate, and sufficient to explain all of the applicable rules and how to participate. All reasonable steps must be taken to ensure that the content is understandable.
RTS requirement 14A: Gambling products must not actively encourage customers to chase their losses, increase their stake or increase the amount they have decided to gamble, or continue to gamble after they have indicated that they wish to stop.
All six operators contacted regarding use of the ‘feature buy in’ element have now removed it from their sites.
This is a Syndicated News piece. Photo credits or photo sources can be found on the source article: UKGC: Games warning for online operators
Esports Entertainment Group Releases Upgraded VIE.GG Esports Gambling Platform
Esports Entertainment Group, Inc. , a licensed online gambling company with a focus on esports wagering and 18+ gaming, is pleased to announce the release of the latest version of VIE.gg the Company’s esports wagering platform.
This latest upgrade delivers notable new features, including additional betting options such as Fixed Odds, Pari-mutuel, Fantasy and Pool Betting to complement our main P2P option.
Furthermore, the upgrade delivers significant content enhancements, including real-time streaming and event coverage. Finally, the upgrades now make VIE.gg (https://vie.gg) fully compatible with all major desktop, mobile and tablet devices, as well as, their respective operating systems.
Grant Johnson, CEO of Esports Entertainment Group, stated “This is another major milestone for our Company. This is our strongest release ever, with every new feature esports gambling enthusiasts could wish for in a platform. Combined with our unsurpassed transparency as a result of our status as a fully reporting public company, we believe VIE.gg is strongly positioned for success in 2020.”
In delivering this upgrade, Esports Entertainment Group partnered with Askott Entertainment, a Vancouver based software development company that has been building award-winning online betting and daily fantasy software since 2013.
ABOUT ESPORTS ENTERTAINMENT GROUP:
Esports Entertainment Group, Inc. is a licensed online gambling company with a focus on esports wagering and 18+ gaming. Esports Entertainment offers bet exchange style wagering on esports events in a licensed, regulated and secure platform to the global esports audience at vie.gg. In addition, Esports Entertainment intends to offer users from around the world the ability to participate in multi-player mobile and PC video game tournaments for cash prizes. Esports Entertainment is led by a team of industry professionals and technical experts from the online gambling and the video game industries, and esports. The Company holds a license to conduct online gambling and 18+ gaming on a global basis in Curacao, Kingdom of the Netherlands. The Company maintains offices in Malta and Warsaw, Poland. Esports Entertainment common stock is listed on the OTCQB under the symbol GMBL. For more information visit www.esportsentertainmentgroup.com
This is a Syndicated News piece. Photo credits or photo sources can be found on the source article: Esports Entertainment Group Releases Upgraded VIE.GG Esports Gambling Platform
UKGC sets industry tough challenges to accelerate progress to raise standards and reduce gambling harm
Working groups led by senior industry leaders will tackle high value customer incentives, advertising online and responsible product design
The Gambling Commission has announced the formation of three industry working groups to tackle key challenges as part of a drive to make gambling safer.
The first-of-its kind initiative follows a briefing to industry leaders in October from the Commission’s chief executive Neil McArthur in which he laid down three challenges and opportunities that the industry must grasp to raise standards and reduce harm across the sector.
Led by senior leaders in the gambling industry the three collaboration groups will focus on game and product design, advertising technology and high value customer incentives to gamble. SG Gaming and Playtech have committed to leading work on producing an effective Industry Code for Product Design, while Sky Betting and Gaming will oversee the Advertising Technology working group. The third group, which will address issues around VIP inducements to gamble, will be led by GVC. All three groups will work closely with the Betting and Gaming Council.
Gambling Commission chief executive Neil McArthur said: “Consumer behaviour and technology are changing so quickly that only a bold and innovative approach will allow us to achieve a reduction in the numbers of people experiencing, or at risk from, gambling related harm.
“I’ve been encouraged by the willingness of so many operators to work with us on these challenges. We’ve set demanding timetable for progress because we cannot proceed at the speed of the slowest. If rapid progress is not made then we will have to look at other options, as making gambling safer for consumers is paramount.”
The three working groups are, in more detail:
Safer products: The industry code for responsible product and game design working group will set out how the gambling industry can produce safer products in the future, the techniques to use when designing apps, online games and gaming machine products, the risks associated with each product and how they can be mitigated, and a clear explanation of what is not acceptable.
Safer advertising online: An interim report by Gamble Aware from earlier this year shows that children, young people and vulnerable adults report they are being exposed to significant levels of online gambling adverts – including via social media. The Advertising Technology challenge will therefore explore and quickly accelerate opportunities to reduce the amount of advertising seen by children, young people and vulnerable adults.
Use of VIP incentives: The incentivisation of high value customers working group will help ensure bonuses, hospitality and gifts in particular around VIP programmes, are offered in a manner which is consistent with the licensing objectives to make gambling fairer, safer and crimefree. The Commission’s casework has found evidence that the approach of some licensees has exacerbated at-risk behaviour and this new group will identify how existing rules can be strengthened.
This approach utilises the skills and resources of the industry but ensures the Commission retains control of outputs – and consequently the best progress for British consumers.
The Gambling Commission announced in October that it would launch an industry-wide challenge to find a technology solution to creating a single customer view which would protect gamblers who gamble with more than one company. The Commission will be working with the Information Commissioners Office (ICO) and a kick-off event will be taking place in Birmingham in February for industry and technology providers. More details on this initiative will be announced in the coming weeks.
The Gambling Commission recently received independent advice on tackling online harms from both the Advisory Board for Safer Gambling and their Digital Advisory Panel.
This is a Syndicated News piece. Photo credits or photo sources can be found on the source article: UKGC sets industry tough challenges to accelerate progress to raise standards and reduce gambling harm
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Yamaha R1:
MotoGP anyone?
Welcome to another edition of GAS Superbike. This month we bring you a report on the closest thing to Valentino Rossi’s GP bike you are ever likely to ride. That is, if you are brave enough and happen to have a quarter of a million bucks lying about.
Yamaha, by the end of the 2014 World Championships, had already won 205 premier class races. Rossi had won 49 and Lorenzo 33. Eddie Lawson won 26, Wayne Rainey added 24 and Kenny Roberts brought home 22. Even with a record like that, laid down by the greatest riders the sport has ever known, the best was still to come.
The Yamaha Factory Team set about the 2015 season by winning 9 of the first 12 races and scored podiums at the other 3. The World Championship is now a straight fight between the double World Champion Jorge Lorenzo and nine time World Champion, Valentino Rossi, both on Yamahas.
Meanwhile, in Africa, if you potter up the M19 to RBS Yamaha with a suitcase stuffed with cash, you can, quite incredibly, ride away on the closest thing to a real MotoGP bike that has ever been available: the 2015 Yamaha R1M. When you turn the key and notice the dash light up like a control panel, a “MODE” button on the left handlebar cluster and a thumbwheel labelled “MENU” on the right side, you know you have turned on something special.
The R1 offers the rider different levels of Traction Control, which limits rear wheel spin in the direction of forward travel, Slide Control, which limits rear wheel movement perpendicular to the direction of travel and Lift Control, which controls wheelies. There is a multi-level Launch Control that allows the rider to redline the engine and simply dump the clutch leaving the ECU to subvert disaster. The rider is also left to select his or her own throttle map. The quick shifter allows you to simply click the gear lever up and down, without using the clutch or lifting off the throttle but does require the rider to program the kill time.
All this is managed by a set of gyroscopic sensors that measure the bike’s forward and lateral acceleration, lean angle and pitch, then feeds the information to the ECU which then manages engine output. It has ABS with a linked function that distributes brake force between front and rear.
This bike requires you to brush up on your physics, read the owner’s manual and program it before you ride it. And what a surprise awaits you when you do ride it. Nothing, but absolutely nothing, happens. I rolled the R1 out of the shop and pointed it down the M19. A fistful of throttle and nothing happened. The R1 simply shot forward at lightning pace without any drama. Ask it to turn right and it drops over like an obedient slave. Up and over to the other side? No problem. It just rolls over like a well-trained Labrador. Slam on the anchors and again nothing happens, the bike just slows down, rapidly, but without a hint of anything dangerous.
After the M19 I went up one of my favourite roads, the R614 from the coast up towards Dalton. This twisty, rural, macadam patch is a proper test for any bike and it is heaps of fun. Except on the R1. The ride was over, very, very, quickly and nothing happened. If you roll the throttle too much mid-corner the rear just bites and drives. Wrong gear on the exit? No problem, the cross-plane big-banger has enough low down torque to squirt you out. Potholes, changes of surface and even the odd sugar-cane stalk could not upset the R1.
The bottom line is that this 2015 R1 has ice in its veins and works like a surgical tool built to carve out lap times. The electronics package is astounding. The chassis is astounding.
The geometry somehow does the impossible and allows the bike to turn quickly yet remain stable at all times. Yamaha have overcome a fundamental design contradiction as old as motorcycling itself.
This is one of the most effective bikes I have ever ridden and it just gets the job done. Really quickly. This motorcycle will win races. The engine is perfect.
The R1 will get you around your favourite circuit faster than any other bike you have ridden. It is brilliant.
It is a technological masterpiece. Yawn.
Clint Sellar on the 2015 R1 at Redstar Photo credit Motorpress
How to get your knee down?
Don’t let anyone kid you. It is, without exception, the coolest thing you’ll ever do on a motorcycle. It is also surprisingly easy. All you have to do is attend a track day.
The most accessible tracks are Dezzi Raceway in Port Shepstone, Redstar in Delmas, Phakisa in the middle of nowhere or Zwartkops in Pretoria. Superbike tracks days are usually organised into slow and fast groups, with instruction available to everyone and are always run in a safe and really friendly, no-pressure environment. You can even insure your precious ride for the event.
Contact Arno Bareiss on 083 332 5767 at Trackdaze who organise awesome weekend events at Phakisa, Sue Cronje on 076 624 6972 for Redstar Raceway, Zwartkops Raceway on 012 384 2299 or Dezzi Raceway on 012 384 2299.
We would also love to know about you and your bike so please send your photos and stories to sanjiv@ontrackventures.co.za
WRITER – SANJIV SINGH
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gekkofm
Tag Archives: Wearable technologies
Wearables for all: How the decade’s most hyped technology has found its groove
There was much talk of wearable technology in the early part of this decade and in what can only be described as a media frenzy. Google launched its hotly awaited Google Glass in 2012. It was everywhere, Diane von Furstenberg used the product on the catwalk at New York Fashion Week, while Virgin Atlantic tied up with the brand for flight crew to check in passengers on selected trans-Atlantic flights. Whilst available to a selected group of subscribers, it unfortunately never made the shelves but set the pace as the pioneer.
The sale of smartwatches and trackers such as the Jawbone UP and Fitbit Flex accelerated in 2013 and things started to evolve rapidly. Then in 2015 we saw the launch of the first Apple Watch. While there has been commentary on the demise of the whole category with Jawbone already defunct, smartwatches are still the only product where we’ve seen continued sales and enhanced innovation, with luxury brands like TAG Heuer launching a range of Google Wear OS devices. According to Statista, global wearable technology sales in 2018 were 123 million units, with trackers making up 15 million and smartwatches 80 million. Watches are still growing faster than any other category and forecasted by CCS Insight to reach 142 million units worldwide in 2019 and a staggering 260 million units by 2023.
There’s little doubt we’ve come to a point where the market is less about the consumer tech and gadgets that we might see in store and rather more about the application of wearable technology – driven by trackers and smartwatches – into other fields such as health and wellbeing that are having a real and valuable impact on people’s lives.
Wearables are evolving. Motiv’s smart ring won Breakout of the Year at the Wearable Tech Awards 2018, but the jury is still out on its success. Looking at the exhibitors at 2019’s Wearable Technology Show, it indicates that there’s more than just smartwatches, but many innovations are being driven by health and wellbeing.
Looking at the impact automated insulin delivery has on patients and parents of children with severe diabetes, WELT is well documented and was one of the most talked about pieces of tech from CES 19. The new SMART belt from Samsung, launched at IFA 2018, can help tackle one of the biggest health challenges of the 21st century, rising obesity. The belt can monitor weight, walking speed, sitting duration and eating habits. Another interesting application of wearable tech is Quell 2.0. This over the device wearable from Neurometrix uses advanced neurotechnology to stimulate sensor nerves sending neural pulses to the brain and blocking pain signals. The device is designed to block multiple types and sources of pain.
Innovation in wearable technology is as big as manufacturers dare it to be and wearable tech used today has evolved to be practical and convenient to make our daily lives more efficient. For resellers it’s interesting to note that it’s claimed that one in ten wearable owners have two or more devices, with those who don’t currently own a wearable stating that they are in the market for one. Research shows that fitness devices and smartwatches are equally wanted to aid in health, detect calorie intake, assess overall fitness and provide stress measurements.
Advances in nanotechnology, batteries and microprocessors have meant the devices can be small and lightweight. It therefore looks to me like the future of wearable tech is in the sublime not the ridiculous. Tech companies that succeed will be the ones that understand consumer behaviour and are solving real world customer needs or problems, rather than just focusing on ‘what’s possible’. Linked to real time data and tapping into human needs, its potential now does seem potentially revolutionary, with applications in health being a particular game-changer for the wearables category.
This decade’s most hyped of technologies has found its groove, enabling not just athletes to monitor wellbeing and lifestyle but for all manner of consumers and in a variety of exciting form factors.
To read the full article please visit PCR.
Tagged Design, Diane von furstenberg, Fitibt, Gekko, Gekko Field Marketing, Innovation, Jawbone UP, Marketing, tech, Technology, Virgin Atlantic, Wearable technologies, wearables
Did the Wearable Tech Expo deliver the goods?
Last week saw London’s Olympia host the UK’s first ever Wearable Technology Conference and Expo, dedicated to showcasing the latest developments in smartwatches, wristbands and other wearable devices. With speakers from Microsoft, Google, Samsung and Intel, the show promised a lot, but did it live up to the hype?
The show floor at Olympia reflected an industry that is still in its infancy with a clear split between sport and leisure wearable gadgets. The most commercially successful wearable tech category so far is that of sports-focused devices, and the plethora of health and fitness-trackers on display at the show underlined the consumer demand for these products.
Wearable tech innovations are helping athletes – both amateur and professional – to improve their performances by creating data while they train, allowing the user to identify areas that require improvement and extra focus. The recent Winter Olympics highlighted these developments as we saw athletes from around the globe trying out a variety of devices in an attempt to gain an edge over the competition. Users of sport-based gadgets certainly know what they want from their devices.
On the other side of the coin, the majority of leisure-focused wearable gadgets like Google Glass and Vrase have not yet hit the open market. This category of devices needs to be refined and defined for the consumer before it penetrates the market, a point which was very evident at the show. The battle for domination in the wearable tech industry is heating up with the major announcement from Google last week about its plans to establish a bigger presence in the industry. The search giant announced Android Wear, a version of its operating system designed specifically for wearable devices. The effects of this move by Google will be felt across the sector by chip makers, electronics firms and fashion labels working on wearable gadgets this year.
All of this is taking place against a backdrop of privacy and security concerns among UK consumers. The market share remains firmly up for grabs and the next twelve months will tell an interesting tale.
In order to thrive in the wearable tech industry brands need to place more emphasis on the quality of the design of the products, with much more input from the creative and design side required. Brands will also need to explore more effective ways for users to interact with the devices. Whether this will be achieved by taking voice activation or recognition to the next level, or through an entirely different approach remains to be seen. We can expect a different state of affairs at London’s Wearable Tech Show 2015. Watch this space.
Rupert Cook is business development director at field marketing agency Gekko
Read more: http://wallblog.co.uk/2014/03/25/did-the-wearable-tech-expo-deliver-the-goods/#ixzz2wzshjKXd
Tagged Android Wear, gadgets, Google Glass, Olympia, retail, Smart Watches, Technology, Vrase, Wearable technologies, Wearable Technology Conference
Live the Experience and Feel the Brand
Can collaborative retail save our high streets? Consumers urge independent retailers to merge to survive
Does black Friday give consumers a real bargain?
Will collaborative retail save our high streets?
Could collaborative retail save our high streets? Independent retailers should merge to avoid closure
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6 Things I Learned from Facebook F8: Day 1
Mar 25, 2015 by karangoel
Today was the first day of Facebook’s flagship developer conference F8. It was the first major developer conference I’ve attended, and as is expected out of Facebook, I’m impressed. Not necessarily by the launches and announcements but rather the event itself.
I was at Fort Mason for over ten hours today and trying to get the best value for my buck. I had some expecations and some goals for the first day, and here’s what I learned from my experience:
Ideas are worthless. It’s all about the execution.
I’m a huge believer in action rather than the thought. I think no idea is original and hiding ideas will do more harm than getting ideas out there. I feel that execution of ideas is more valuable than coming up with the idea. With most of the launches today, Facebook managed to kill at least a few dozen startups (Path with Messenger Business for example), and no one is talking about it because who doesn’t like access to 600M+ users for free.
Values change as you become more public
During their panel, Brian Acton (WhatsApp) and Mike Krieger (Instagram) both said that they started their companies and agreed to be acquired by Facebook because it the company shares their values of “connecting the world”. I don’t think that’s completely accurate. I think they wanted to start working on their respective products because they saw the need and potential of innovation. I think, they got acquired also because the money way good ($19B for WhatsApp and $1B for Instagram).
Developers love API’s
During the same panel, at least two brave souls from the audience went up and asked Brian Acton if WhatsApp would ever have an API (the answer is no). This goes on to prove how useful existing platforms are to developers around the world and how much in demand friendly API’s are. But I can empathize with WhatsApp considering how small their team is, and can understand that they need to prioritize optimizing their core platform over an API.
Facebook wants to dominate my communication
Messenger. Facebook app. Instagram. WhatsApp. Groups. See something common? They all let you express yourself in some way to certain audiences. With today’s launches of Messenger Platform and Messenger Business, Facebook now is quite aggressively trying to get my attention whenever (and however) I want to communicate. Text, photos, videos, audio, VoIP and even extended families of communication.
Deadmau5 is freaking amazing
Facebook knows how to conference. pic.twitter.com/aeKwnS3bjw
— Karan Goel (@karangoel) March 26, 2015
I did have high expectations for a Facebook event, but the company far exceeded them. Only Facebook can turn a developer event into a Deadmau5 rave in under half an hour.
Networking is fun, but hard
I met the rockstar. pic.twitter.com/5vTLGOrmhm
I’ve been pushing myself for the last few months to get uncomfortable enough by meeting as many new people as possible. My hopes are that it will pay off in the long term, but worst case, I end up making good friends (which really isn’t the worst case). It takes guts to walk up to a stranger, extend your hand and open your mouth and speak words that don’t creep them out. I didn’t network as much as I wanted to today, but I did nevertheless. Hopefully, tomorrow I get to meet more amazing people and build really strong and meaningful connections.
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vacationsbyelissa@aol.com
Book Travel Now
The Robin Hood Guide to the United Kingdom
By Linda Barnard
Begin in Birmingham
Contemporary architecture mixes with historic buildings in post-industrial Birmingham. The central location makes it a good starting point for a Robin Hood adventure. There is excellent shopping in the Bullring complex opposite the busy train station. Luxury retailer Selfridges & Co., with its wavy skin of shiny aluminum discs, is a local landmark. Half-a-dozen chic cocktail bars are located in former bank buildings in the city center, including The Lost & Found, which makes the most of soaring ceilings to play with lavish décor. The multi-colored Library of Birmingham, its wedding cake shape encircled with interlocking metal hoops, is a modernist gem.
Kiev.Victor / Shutterstock
You’ll find a mini version of Burning Man-meets-Glastonbury, with a side of TED Conferences at Timber International Forest Festival, held in July on the Leicestershire/Derbyshire border. The fest celebrates all things woodland and the ambitious transformation of a onetime bleak mining landscape into the National Forest. The fest gets to the heart of forest culture with camping, music, eclectic performance art, campfire stories, bathing under the sky in outdoor hot tubs music, woodcrafts, torchlight parade, food and drink and speakers on a range of outdoor topics, all coming together for a happening weekend in the trees.
Andrew Allcock/Shutterstock
Rooting for Your Lunch
Robin Hood and the gang probably had to forage for their meals. Expert guides from Totally Wild Foraging in Derbyshire lead small-group tours through meadows and woods to source edibles to be incorporated into a three-course forager’s lunch at nearby Fischer’s Baslow Hall heritage inn. Pick water mint from beside a rushing stream, nibble edible flowers, taste fruit cordials and sloe gin made from foraged fruits and nettles and learn what’s deadly as well as delicious in the woods. Hedgewood celery, anyone?
Kate Higgs /Shutterstock
Following in Russell Crowe’s Footsteps
Located in the heart of the peaceful and picturesque Peak District National Park, the stepping stones at Lindale cross a narrow spot in the fast-flowing River Dove. Tucked between dramatic limestone hills, the flattish, square stones were placed there in the 19th-century and had their brush with fame when they appeared in the final scenes of Robin Hood, starring Russell Crowe and Cate Blanchett. Anglers will love that Izaak Walton, author of The Compleat Angler in 1653, fished in the Dove.
© Visit Peak District & Derbyshire / Rod Edwards 2007.
No Matches, No Problem
The Merry Men and company lived by their wits and did things by hand. A forest survival session with Red Oak Bushcraft teaches wilderness skills that would have come in handy in the Middle Ages, like making surprisingly strong cord from bulrushes and nettles and building a fire by using a piece of wood and a handmade bow drill. It only took a few minutes before we were able to nurse a spark into a flame.
Red Oak Bushcraft
Riding Through the Glen
Robin Hood, Maid Marian, and the crew were always on horseback onscreen and in stories. Sherwood Forest was a huge area of woods and meadows in the Middle Ages, defined as the king’s royal as hunting grounds. With the help of your trusty steed, join a guided group on a horseback tour of fields and forests at Matlock Farm in the Peak District. Robin didn’t need someone leading his mount, but as a novice rider, you may feel better having someone hold your dobbin’s halter if you like.
Fotokostic /Shutterstock
Sleep in Sherwood Forest
Sherwood Forest had plenty of places for a weary outlaw and his posse to bed down. But why rough it? Upscale cabins at Forest Holidays have decks with hot tubs and barbecues, fireplaces and comfy beds. You can even book a chef to prepare and serve an excellent three-course meal in your cabin. Pick up a bottle of wine at the camp café and store or start the day with a full English breakfast, including a vegetarian option. There’s thick tree cover on the property and the cabins are surrounded by the forest, making them feel beautifully isolated.
Visit Nottinghamshire
Dig up Some History
The Sherwood Forest Archeology Project welcomes volunteers. Who knows what you’ll find on a dig behind the medieval church? The Vikings were here, too. And King John’s palace was nearby. It’s not just digging and sifting dirt: anybody who helps is contributing to long-term local research and the on-site archaeologists and historians have plenty of stories to share. They’re also on board the Robin Hood Express, a double-decker London bus that tours various sites associated with Robin and the Merry Men around Sherwood and nearby Nottingham.
Sherwood Forest Archaeology and History Project Facebook
Aged in Oak
The 1,300-year-old Major Oak near the village of Edwinstowe in Nottinghamshire was said to be where Robin Hood made his forest home. Locals call it Robin Hood’s Tree, although it looks like it would be a wonky stay today, with spread-out limbs propped up by a timber supports. Legend has it 13 or 14 men could fit in its hollow heart at one time. Read all about Robin Hood in displays next to the tree, one of thousand ancient oak giants in this area of Sherwood Forest that’s accessible by easy walking paths from the new visitors center, which introduces you to all things Robin.
Flying Arrows
You can’t be Robin Hood without picking up a bow. Take an archery class in a Sherwood Forest clearing with Adrenalin Jungle. Classes explain safety and the mechanics of the sport and after a few practice rounds, you’re competing with the group to determine who is the finest archer in Sherwood Forest. How Robin Hood can you get?
Yes, There’s a Sheriff of Nottingham
Nottingham does indeed have a sheriff, but she’s a city politician and hardly Hollywood’s scowling, Christmas-canceling movie bully. The real surprise in Nottingham is its Northern-cool vibe, including a busy central market and cool hidden bars, some within caves. Nottingham is built over more than 800 limestone caves, using some for tours and tippling. Lost Property, tucked down a hallway and behind a faux front of piled vintage luggage, has a cave bar. A door off the main room in the 13th-century Ye Olde Salutation Inn opens on winding stairs to a series of well-lit caves below to explore, while Nottingham Underground Festival goes deep to celebrate all things below ground.
Lucian Milasan / Shutterstock
Meet Robin Hood
There’s no evidence Robin Hood existed. But why wouldn’t you want to go on a tour of Nottingham with a guy in green with a bow slung over his shoulder? Actor Ade Andrews is a charmingly convincing version of the man in tights. Hear stories about the famous outlaw and how he got his name and fame. Was he really Robin of Loxley, brave Crusader and defender of Richard the Lionheart? Stop at St. Mary’s church where the pious Robin Hood went to pray in the 15th-century ballad Robin Hood and the Monk and finish up with a pint in Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem. Claiming to be England’s oldest pub, it was built in rock at the base of Nottingham Castle in 1189, a place for knights to share a farewell cup before departing for the Crusades.
What Would Robin Hood Drink?
Newly released Castle Gate Gin is made in with acorns gathered in Sherwood Forest, including some foraged from below the Major Oak. Made in small batches and hard to find outside Nottingham, Robin Hood appears on the label of Gin No. 1, which gets creamy notes from roasted acorns. Brilliant pink Gin No. 17 gets its color and bright flavor from strawberries, mellowed with a hint of lavender. Maid Marian is on the label and the distiller recommends elderflower tonic for a G&T, Maid Marion style.
Tim Elwood
Queen Victoria Slept Here
Relax with some pampering in a modern waters spa at Ye Olde Bell Hotel, which began as a carriage stop in the late 1600s along the Great North Road on the edge of Nottinghamshire. Queen Victoria and various movie stars have slept there but the hotel has its eye on more modern pursuits, opening a spa building in 2017 that’s filled with a range of experiences. Hit the steam room, then cool off in what’s billed as “the only snowstorm experience in the U.K.” The glass-walled indoor corridor has sound and light effects and a push-button choice of gentle snowfall or amped up mini-blizzard. Three different saunas have picture windows facing onto a courtyard with Nordic-inspired relaxation huts, heated lounge chairs, and firepits. Relax in the salt inhalation room then sip a juice in the indoor-outdoor thermal pool.
Robin Romance
The Church of St. Mary, Edwinstowe in this pretty village in the heart of Sherwood Forest is said to be the place where Robin Hood and Maid Marian were wed. It’s just down the road from the Major Oak, so you could say it’s close to home. The church was built in 1175 on the site of the original church building, which dates to 633. And if you fulfill some requirements, you could get married there, too. It’s across the road from Launay’s Restaurant, an excellent dining room that specializes in English and French cuisine with a local and seasonal focus, including veggies from the back gardens and greenhouse. Or have a pint at The Royal Oak next door.
Nigel Jarvis /Shutterstock
See more at Fodor's Travel
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Vacations by Elissa
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Has Wikipedia broken faith with users by going dark?
Mathew Ingram Jan 18, 2012 - 9:34 AM CST
Among the websites and services that went dark on Wednesday to protest the anti-piracy bills that are currently making their way through Congress, one of the more controversial is Wikipedia. A number of critics — including some regular contributors to the “open source” encyclopedia — say the site shouldn’t be taking an advocacy position on such an issue, since it’s supposed to represent a neutral point of view. But if anything, it could be argued that the internal process that led to that decision is actually a great illustration of how Wikipedia functions.
Among those criticizing the encyclopedia for its day-long blackout (which the Wall Street Journal (s nws) said will affect more than 10 million users) was tech blogger Paul Carr, writing for the new site PandoDaily. In his post, Carr argued Twitter CEO Dick Costolo was right when he said blacking out a global business to protest a U.S. law is “foolish,” and Wikipedia was making a grave mistake by taking such a position, especially since the site just spent months trying to raise money from users to pay its bills:
[T]o shutter Wikipedia — a crowd-funded international encyclopedia — in protest of a single national issue is even worse. It’s idiotic, it’s selfish and it sets a horrible, horrible precedent.
Does Wikipedia have a duty to remain online?
Carr contends because Wikipedia is funded by its members and users, it owes the world “the courtesy of staying live, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.” But his main point seems to be the same one other critics have made: Taking a position against a law like SOPA or PIPA (the former is the House version of the anti-piracy bill and the latter is the Senate version) is fundamentally at odds with Wikipedia’s stated goal of remaining neutral. This goal is spelled out in the site’s guidelines, which enforce what is known as the NPOV or “neutral point of view” in articles.
One editor for the site agreed, saying the blackout (which only affects the English portion of the site, and doesn’t affect the mobile version at all) put Wikipedia on “slippery slope,” which could force it to consider protests for all kinds of public issues. “Before we know it, we’re blacked out because we want to save the whales,” Robert Lawton told the Associated Press. Other users and contributors said they were concerned by taking a position on a specific issue, Wikipedia might call into question its neutral position on other things.
Co-founder Jimmy Wales, however, has said the two things are completely separate, and just because the articles themselves are supposed to be neutral on a particular issue doesn’t mean the Wikipedia community as a whole shouldn’t be able to make its opinions known about issues that affect the openness of the Internet:
@hakantee The encyclopedia will always be neutral. The community need not be, not when the encyclopedia is threatened!
— Jimmy Wales (@jimmy_wales) January 17, 2012
The Wikipedia founder also pointed out it was not his decision to shut down the encyclopedia for a day, although much of the mainstream media coverage made it sound as though he had unilaterally made that choice. “This was a consensus decision of the community not mine alone,” he said in response to one critic on Twitter. In a note to the public, Sue Gardner — the executive director of Wikimedia, the non-profit foundation that administers the crowdsourced encyclopedia — also discussed the internal process that arrived at the decision, noting it was proposed by several administrators of the site, then voted on by members, the same way other choices are.
Wikipedia’s process was democratic, as it should be
After the site asked contributors and users for their thoughts about what action Wikipedia should take, more than 1,800 people responded and proposed a number of different approaches, including a global blackout and a blackout just for U.S. users (similar to Google, which blacked out its logo for U.S. IP addresses only). According to the protest’s chief proponents — who were identified only by Wikipedia handles such as User:Nuclear Warfare and User:Risker — the vote for a global blackout won by a slim majority of 55 percent. Advocates of that decision said since the legislation could affect global sites and services, protesting it should also be global.
Blogger and Cato Institute scholar Timothy Lee argued on Twitter that criticizing the Wikipedia decision (which SOPA’s congressional sponsor, Rep. Lamar Smith (R-Texas), also did — calling it “a publicity stunt”) shows a lack of understanding about how the user-generated encyclopedia works. While it is tempting to think of the site as a service like Twitter or Facebook, where a group of individuals control the company that offers the service and can take whatever action they wish, Wikipedia is run by a community. There are repeated criticisms about the “cabal” that governs the community, or about the influence Jimmy Wales has over it, but the principle it operates on is not in doubt.
As Megan Garber notes at The Atlantic, the discussion and debate around the decision is a fascinating glimpse into how this sprawling and somewhat anarchic global community of info-nerds functions. It may not be pretty, and it may not always work, but the SOPA and PIPA protest doesn’t highlight any of that — if anything, it does the exact opposite.
Post and thumbnail photos courtesy of Flickr users Klobetime and
33 Responses to “Has Wikipedia broken faith with users by going dark?”
Shane L Harris January 19, 2012
Douglas Crets January 19, 2012
Seems kind of short-sighted for Paul Carr, but advantageous way to help launch PandoDaily. Obviously, PandoDaily couldn’t go dark because it was already dark before.
Casey January 18, 2012
This article was useless.
All things must come to pass January 18, 2012
People complaining about how they donated don’t realize that if SOPA/PIPA passes, there won’t be a Wikipedia… forever. The users who voted for it don’t see a cent of it. It all goes to running the servers and the salaries of the handful of actual employees of the WMF (which number in just around a hundred, a far cry from the millions of Google employees for instance). A donation is a gift, it is not a payment nor a subscription. Neither does it give you the right to dictate what Wikipedia should do.
Anonymous coward January 18, 2012
How can a site remain neutral on an issue that will kill it. Make no mistake, should this legislation be passed in its current form wikipedias remaining life would be measured in a handful of months. It would take one complaint from one person that some of the content might be theirs and wikipedia would be starved of funding.
[F]oxymoron January 18, 2012
Wikipedia’s actions make me want to donate more money. What, you expect Wikipedia to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars to some lobbyist here in DC to engage in meaningful conversation?
thatguyoverthere January 18, 2012
Couldn’t you press the Stop button after the page’s loaded, right before it redirects you to a blackout page?
despairing in china January 18, 2012
wikipedia has become an advocacy group. blecch. and some quasi-democratic selection process make the whole thing ok? BLECCH. next month they will have a democratic debate and decide to black out the site to protest, what, sarah palin? also, if advocacy is such a good thing, why the heck have there been no internet protests about China’s overt, horrendous suppression of free speech? or turkey’s jailing of 70+ journalists in recent months, and without due process. or how about protesting iran and syria gunning down citizens in the streets? but no, that wouldn’t play as well at the coffeehouses, i guess. what a joke
Jason C January 18, 2012
We’re talking about an international threat here; not just a “single national issue.” The controversy surrounds loose-leaf legislation (SOPA/PIPA) that would allow the US government to shut down access to websites without due process. Let’s say Wikipedia becomes one of those websites. How many donations do you think came from the US in 2011? I realize the US is not the center of the universe, but to claim this blackout sets a “horrible, horrible precedent” is laughable.
Karen Kazaryan January 18, 2012
Oh. cmon. Paul Carr worked as a professional troll for Techcrunch. Why would anyone take his posts on a new blog (that needs pageviews) seriously?
Michelle K. January 18, 2012
I would disagree with Mr. Carr in his thought ‘that because Wikipedia is funded by its members and users, it owes the world “the courtesy of staying live, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.”‘ That would be similar to saying the same about any for-proit (or even not-for-profit) organization that takes contributions. Just because people donate to an organization does not mean that they should have any say in the way that management chooses to run it. If only the same could be said about all people that donated to a politician who later turned out to change his policies…
Also: “Before we know it, we’re blacked out because we want to save the whales,†That’s simply silly. This bill would DIRECTLY effect Wikipedia. And heavily effect at that. A site that is continuously updated by literally thousands of people every day, Wikipedia, (apart from maybe Facebook) would stand the MOST to lose of any other URL in the internet. I think it makes perfect sense that they would take a stand on this. This argument sounded as ridiculously conclusion jumping as the people would argue that allowing gay marriage would lead to beastiality. I mean, come on.
FreedomMMC January 18, 2012
So you are for the SOPA bill? Why do you think internet censorship is a good idea?
Aubrey Scarborough January 18, 2012
No no no no, you have it very wrong Gigaom. I am very disappointed in you.
Twitter didn’t shut down because it’s silly to shut down one of the main communication networks for educating people about SOPA. Don’t take the quote out of context.
Honestly, this article makes you looks bad and ignorant.
Mathew Ingram January 18, 2012
I didn’t take Costolo’s comment out of context at all. Not sure why you’re suggesting that I did.
Thomas Rand-Nash January 18, 2012
I’m with Wizard Gynoid–this is a purely symbolic “going dark.” The “news” needs to find something else to waste time on.
Cheryl Baumgartner January 18, 2012
I guess no one realized that SOPA would severely damage, if not destroy Wikipedia? How many outside links are on a Wikipedia entry? Does anyone honestly believe thay the user building that entry has contacted each of those sites to secure permission to link to them.
Wikipedia has every right to respond to a proposed law that directly puts it at risk.
Joe January 19, 2012
While they link to source, i’m not so sure they would be at risk beeing a nonprofit and all. not to mention the PR backlash for going after Wikipedia.
Wikipedia taking a stand is in my opinion not because they would be threatened, but because it’s the right thing to do.
Think of it as racism, you might not be a racist, but unless you stick your neck out and oppose racism when it counts you’re a part of the problem, not the solution.
There is nothing in SOPA that says anyone has to profit in order to to be guilty of copyright infringement or infringement of intellectual property. The way it is written any sharing of or linking to anything without express permission from the original source of the content can be labeled as such.
All it takes is for a link to be created or information shared without the express permission. Let me give you an example of exactly how it threatens Wikipedia.
I want to do a blog on one of the celebrities here and Wikipedia has linked to information on that celebs official page. Let’s even assume wikipedia got express permission to do so. When I link my blog to wikipedia while it may be ‘understood’ that people can cite wikipedia as a source and link to content here, that does not mean that I have permission from the celeb in question to link to their site. The celeb doesn’t like the fact that I say he is a sorry actor and has a hizzy fit. Because I linked through Wikipedia to this actors site, they can claim copyright infringement on my part and Wikipedia facilitated that by providing the content here.
Read the text of the bill and reason beyond the surface. Every share on every network is a potential copyright infringement under SOPA and every network would be guilty of facilitating copyright infringement.
Rich January 18, 2012
I use Wikipedia every day and I think it’s well worth a one-day blackout to try to fight legislation as potentially threatening as SOPA and PIPA. It’s the least we can do!
Nicholas Cronwright January 18, 2012
I work as an SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) writer in South Africa and to be honest I would never have realised how much I relied on Wikipedia until today. I get most of my content from the website as it saves me browsing continuously and makes my writing more efficient.
skeptic January 18, 2012
Isn’t it a bit ironic that Jimmy Wales, and the Wikipedia community in general, were largely silent when Wikileaks was last year effectively given the SOPA/PIPA treatment by Amazon, VISA et al?
Omar January 18, 2012
Not really. The treatement of Wikileaks by these companies didn’t threaten Wikipedia like SOPA/PIPA does. Therefore, it wouldn’t really make sense to protest in that case.
Steve Tapp January 18, 2012
A “publicity stunt”: is something your opponent does to get some great free media coverage.
Wikipedia relies a lot on the Fair Use doctrine, which would foreseeably by under much increased stress under these hideous, greedy bills.
Greg Pfister January 18, 2012
This misses a vital point: Wikipedia’s going dark finally forced the mainstream media to cover SOPA/PIPA.
Good point, Greg.
MichaelEdits January 18, 2012
I was going to close http://www.MichaelEdits.com for the day but I decided I’d rather have money.
Dorian Ruvalcaba January 18, 2012
Thank you wikipedia, I contributed 350 hard earned dollars to you, and use your site alot of time since I study at the U of A thanks for your support, and I as a regular user support you black out.
mpechner January 18, 2012
They are going the right thing. The only way for people to realize what is going on are actions like this. The average person does not get it.
My brother had not heard about any of this and he lives in the DC area. People outside the tech world need to know how they will be affected in the long run. So, yes, this is needed.
Wizard Gynoid January 18, 2012
give me a break. if need be you can disable java in your browser, or even more easily, just pull up the google cache of the page you’re looking for. geez.
Yes, that is true — I think the criticisms are more about the principle than the actual technical aspects of the blackout. Thanks for the comment though.
Steve Crowley January 18, 2012
The cognoscenti have workarounds. The typical person at a public PC at a library today is not as facile at implementing them.
rick gregory January 18, 2012
And omg… they’ll not have Wikipedia for 24 whole hours! Of course, the point is to highlight what could happen if SOPA/PIPA were law… not just for 24 hours, but for good. Protests like this are good. Wikipedia’s critics are wrong.
Dolph January 18, 2012
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