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Forgiveness the Greatest Healer of All
Summer of Peace 2015 > Family & Inter-Personal Peacebuilding > Forgiveness
Broadcast on July 28, 2015
With Gerald G. Jampolsky & Diane Cirincione
One of Jerry and Diane's favorite definitions is "Forgiveness means giving up all hopes for a better past!". In this session they will explore some of the following:
What ways are available to us to let go of a painful past in order to live fully in the present?
What are the self made blocks to why we don't forgive?
What role does forgiveness play in health and healing?
Explore the toxicity of the unforgiving mind as the root of unhappiness and how to identify and remove the obstacles to forgiveness through The Stepping Stones.
Gerald G. Jampolsky & Diane Cirincione
Diane-Clinical Psychologist/Jerry-Child and Adult Psychiatrist
Gerald G. Jampolsky, M.D. is a child and adult psychiatrist and a graduate of Stanford Medical School and former faculty member of the University of California School of Medicine in San Francisco. He is the pioneer Founder of Attitudinal Healing. In 2005 he was the recipient of the prestigious Excellence in Medicine - Pride in the Profession Award from the American Medical Association for this widespread, cross-cultural, groundbreaking work. In 1975 he established the original Center for Attitudinal Healing (CAH) where children, adolescents, and adults with life threatening illnesses and grief and loss found peace of mind through the first Peer Support Group Model that transformed them and their families. Today, there are independent CAH innovating Attitudinal Healing in all aspects of life’s challenges in dozens of countries on five continents. He and Diane Cirincione, Ph.D. are married and are best selling authors of several books. Diane V. Cirincione, Ph.D. is an internationally known lecturer and author as well as an entrepreneur with 40 years business experience. In addition to her B.S. Degree in Organizational Behavior, she holds a Masters in Counseling Psychology and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. She serves on numerous Boards including as a Trustee on the World Business Academy. She is President of the Jampolsky Outreach Foundation and Co-Founder with Dr. Jampolsky of Attitudinal Healing International, an educational and support organization working with and mentoring independent Centers for Attitudinal Healing as well as other organizations adapting this work globally. They are co-authors of numerous best selling books and audio programs. They have been invited to lecture and consult together for over 35 years in 60 countries where they have received numerous international awards. Both are members of the adjunct faculty of the John A. Burns School of Medicine – University of Hawaii.
www.ahinternational.org
From the World Peace Library Forgiveness the Greatest Healer of All
Inspiring Positive Social Change 2017
Broadcast on August 01, 2017
Psychologists Gerald G. Jampolsky, M.D. and Diane Cirincione, Ph.D. unveil their favorite definition of forgiveness: Forgiveness means giving up all hopes for a better past! They explore the toxicity of the unforgiving mind as the root of unhappiness — and show how you can identify and remove your obstacles to forgiveness.
During this hopeful session, you'll discover:
Ways to let go of a painful past & live fully in the present
Why forgiving is difficult
The role forgiveness plays in health & healing
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Hunting Jayden
By Robert Beaton Sep 6, 2016
Early in season 2013, Melbourne recruiter Gary Burleigh was eager to scope out the talent-laden Brighton Grammar side.
A strong team, Brighton contained two standout players who would feature prominently come draft time at the end of the season.
But what Burleigh didn’t intend coming across was a blonde-haired half-back by the name of Jayden Hunt.
“I was predominantly watching Josh Kelly and Christian Salem for that year’s draft,” Burleigh told Aflplayers.com.au.
“I saw Brighton play on five or six occasions as the year unfolded because those two were on our radar and Jayden kept bobbing up. He wouldn’t have outstanding games but he would have moments in games where you thought ‘there he is again’.
“He really started to grab my attention later in the season where his x-factor, clean hands and his ability to take off – that’s what really got my attention was his speed, ability to change direction and angles and his run and carry.”
Vote for Jayden Hunt in your 22Under22 team here
For the majority of the season, Hunt was a relative nobody to the draft world. He didn’t play much the previous season because of back troubles and was invested in tennis.
He was also small in stature which prevented him playing in any role other than a small forward – which he was handy at.
The Brighton Grammar side was coached by former AFL player and coach Robert Shaw. Following a growth spurt before the start of the 2013 season, Hunt was moved away from his role as the side’s resident forward pocket.
“He was always a forward, creative skilful, clever forward. He had amazing pace and everyone was always convinced that he was a forward but I actually thought he could play in the back-six,” Shaw stold Aflplayers.com.au.
“So in Year 12, I put him in the backline, where he had never played before. I gave him the responsibility of taking the kick outs and picking up the best small forwards, and basically what you see him do now is what he did for the school at a smaller scale.
“I remember the day I told him he was going into defence, I said ‘mate you’ll be playing in the backline all year’ and he laughed and said ‘I don’t think I’ve ever been down that end’.
“Year 12 was the year he really came along leaps and bounds. He was always talented and a really clever footballer but his move to defence added maturity, urgency and a lot of responsibility.”
It was a decision that would have a profound impact on Hunt as he was impossible to miss across half-back. But Burleigh needed to know more about this kid, so he asked Shaw for more information.
Shaw was adamant that his dashing defender should be on an AFL list for the 2014 season, but when the APS competition finished, Burleigh needed to see more.
“On the Thursday or Friday after their school season finished, Robert rang me and said he’ll be playing for Old Brighton in the Under-19s, so I changed my plans from watching TAC Cup to go and watch this under-19s amateur team play just to see more of Jayden.
“He hadn’t been on our radar before because he just hadn’t shown enough – he was a bit of a highlights package. So I went down to Brighton Beach Oval where I’d never been before and it was a windy, slippery day but he was there on the half-back flank.
“He would’ve had about 20 possessions and kicked in from full-back and was hitting the centre of the ground with the wind, but there was this one passage of play, I think it was in the third quarter, he grabbed the ball from half-back and just took off. He had two bounces and just launched from 60m out and it went through goal post height and I just thought ‘wow that was seriously good’.
“I know it’s a lower level but that’s special, not many people can do what he did so I rang [Melbourne National Recruiting Manager] Jason Taylor halfway through and said ‘I reckon we have one here’.”
Hunt played a couple more games for Old Brighton’s under-19s and Burleigh went along. He even ventured to the APS Athletics competition to watch Hunt race in the open 100m sprint – where he ran the seventh fastest time against conditioned runners.
Now with a firm idea of Hunt’s capabilities, Melbourne were keen to keep him under wraps. But their hopes were dashed when they spotted a rival with an eye on Hunt.
“I went to watch his next game at Princes Park and Collingwood’s Derek Hine was there, so they had clearly cottoned on to Jayden,” Burleigh said.
“They might’ve done a follow-up on him, people talk and maybe there was a tip off from the previous week and Derek is from down that area also.
“I didn’t quite know how interested Collingwood were in him, but for Derek Hine to go and watch one player in September means a fair bit.”
*Jayden Hunt’s results in the 2013 APS Athletics comp, with Port Adelaide’s Karl Amon not far off the pace.
Collingwood might’ve had an eye on Hunt but they were certainly keeping it a secret, with Shaw saying Melbourne were the only club to inquire about the fleet-footed youngster.
As draft day approached, the Demons planned to take Hunt as late as they could, knowing there was an element of risk involved with a player strictly from a school competition.
Melbourne entered the 2013 draft with picks 9, 40 and 57, and was mindful of Collingwood’s interest, who had picks 6, 10, 65 and 77.
“Jayden wasn’t in our rankings at the start of the year but by the end of the season, I ranked him around the mid-20s based purely on the glimpses he showed,” Burleigh said.
“I think Collingwood were also interested in taking him around that mark. They had some interest in Jay Kennedy-Harris who we took at pick 40, but you do some research and find out where the interest is and Melbourne knew they only had to beat Collingwood for him at the time.
“So there’s a bit of gamesmanship there to find out where you needed to pick him, they could’ve taken him as a rookie but they knew Collingwood were lurking.
“Jason Taylor really backed his recruiters in and it was in his first draft as the number one man in charge of that area, it took some guts to call Jayden’s name out. With a new coach, it would’ve been easy to take the safe option and not back his staff in considering he hadn’t been exposed to Jayden that much.”
After a couple of injury–interrupted seasons, Hunt has proven to be one of the better steals in recent draft history.
The dashing half-back impressed in his Round 4 debut and steadily improved as the season progressed. After 19 games, he led the Demons for running bounces in 2016 and received a place in this year’s 22Under22 squad.
And with a long and exciting AFL career ahead, it’s hard to believe Hunt nearly escaped the AFL system.
“They get besotted by the TAC Cup system, scholarships, squads and talent pathways but there’s blokes playing school footy who should be on AFL lists,” Shaw said.
“Because someone at TAC Cup doesn’t rate him or look at him because he has a knock in his game, the players just disappear, so Jayden’s is a great story in many ways.
Burleigh agreed, and said Hunt’s story is one of opportunity coupled with a bit of luck.
“I think his mates had to talk him into playing in Year 12, which essentially means a few of his friends have talked him into an AFL career.”
Jayden Hunt is part of the 2016 22Under22 squad.
If you think he deserves a spot in the final 22, vote for him here.
Jayden Hunt Melbourne Demons
Gary Burleigh
Previous article Crows, Giants, Hawks Reveal MVP Nominee
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'Caleb's a really humble young kid'
By David Mundy
Swan Rampe now a Great Dane in Sydney
By Heath Grundy and Nick Smith
JAZ GARNERS PLAYERS’ ATTENTION
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Champlain Valley Equipment Builds New Derby Store
After a couple false starts with the State of Vermont permitting process, construction is finally underway for Champlain Valley Equipment’s new store in Derby, Vt. The new store is being built on a 30 acre lot about 0.25 miles up the road from the current Derby facility and is meant to replace the current store, which was originally built in the 1950s as a dairy barn.
The Kubota, New Holland and Case IH dealership is one of 5 locations for Champlain Valley Equipment in Vermont, and Josh Provost, general manager of the Derby location and a partner in the dealership, says the store had outgrown the outdated facility.
“At the new Derby location, we are increasing the size of the showroom from the 1,500 square feet we have now to about 5,000 square feet,” he says. “We are also increasing the ceiling height in the showroom from 8 feet tall to 14 feet tall.”
In addition to expansions to the showroom, Provost says parts storage will triple in the new facility and the shop space will increase by about 5,000 square feet. They will also increase the ceiling heights in the shop from 13 to 27 feet tall. The low ceilings in the current facility’s shop have proved to be a hindrance on the teams’ productivity.
“With the new building, we expect to see the largest increase in efficiency in our shop,” Provost says. “In our current shop, the doors aren’t wide or tall enough for the larger equipment, so right now we have to break the equipment down in the yard before bringing it in. We also have to set up all of the equipment in the yard, which limits us during the winter months when we can’t be working outdoors. With the increased size of the new shop, we will be able to work in the shop throughout the year and save time not having to break equipment down outside and then rebuild it.”
The latest news on dealer growth, including acquisitions, consolidations and new locations.
More Dealers on the Move
With the additional space, Provost says the dealership will be able to add two additional techs.
While designing the new store, Provost says efforts were taken to make the building energy efficient. The building is completely panelized with a membrane roof, which Provost says has a longer life and lower maintenance requirements than other options. Radiant heat was also included throughout the building and all of the lights use LED bulbs.
Another bonus to Champlain Valley Equipment’s new location is they are currently only using 7 acres of the lot. “We have another 23 acres remaining and it’s agricultural land so we can plant crops on it. We plan to crop the land and use it for field demos on site,” Provost says.
When the group first began designing the building, Provost says it was important to get all of the employees’ input on what they would like to see in the new dealership.
“When we started this project we just had a piece of construction paper with the idea on it. Then we met with all the store managers from our 5 locations and got their input. We laid out a lot of the building from there, but also talked to each of the individual departments — the parts manager, service manager and the individual service techs — to see what they needed as far as the layout in their spaces. We then tweaked those ideas based on what was practical and what we thought would be effective,” he says.
One such practical and effective measure that was taken in the new building was the consolidation of all of the store’s parts into one building.
“In our current facility we have parts storage in three separate buildings on site, so the techs have to spend time walking back and forth to gather their parts,” Provost says. “With the new building, we will have the entire parts department in one building with a loading dock for parts shipments.”
With construction currently underway on the new facility, Provost says he would like to be in the new building by the beginning of January.
“The staff is really excited for the new building,” he says. “Everyone knows the investment we’ve put into the new store and we’ve even hired some additional staff because we anticipate an increase in our traffic flow with the new store.”
KEYWORDS Case IH dealers Champlain Valley Equipment dealership expansions dealership growth Kubota dealers New Holland dealers
Champlain Valley Equipment Closes East Randolph Store
Valley Plains Equipment Builds New Facility in Jamestown, N.D.
Platte Valley Equipment Breaks Ground on New Store
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Ag Equipment Manufacturers — Executive Compensation
Happy New Year! The latest episode of On the Record is now available. In this week’s program we discuss dealers’ record low used equipment inventory levels. In the Technology Corner, Jack Zemlicka discusses how the lifecycle of precision services are evolving. Also in this episode, the latest earnings reports from Buhler, manufacturer of the Versatile and Farm King brands of equipment, and Claas, as well as an improvement in farmer sentiment and farm equipment purchasing plans and the Dallas Federal Reserve Bank reports weaker ag conditions in the fourth quarter of 2020.
Lessiter Media
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AIM2 Inhibits Colorectal Cancer Cell Pr...
Research Paper Volume 13, Issue 1 pp 1017—1031
AIM2 inhibits colorectal cancer cell proliferation and migration through suppression of Gli1
Menglin Xu1, , Junfeng Wang2, , Haoran Li2, , Zhengrong Zhang2, , Zhengwu Cheng2, ,
1 Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241000, China
2 Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241000, China
Received: June 30, 2020 Accepted: September 29, 2020 Published: December 3, 2020
Xu M, Wang J, Li H, Zhang Z, Cheng Z, . AIM2 inhibits colorectal cancer cell proliferation and migration through suppression of Gli1. Aging (Albany NY). 2021; 13:1017-1031. https://doi.org/10.18632/aging.202226
Copyright: © 2020 Xu et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY 3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignant tumor and is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2), as a member of the pyrin-HIN family proteins, plays contentious roles in different types of cancers. In the present work, we provide evidence that AIM2 was commonly downregulated in human CRC and loss of AIM2 significantly correlated with tumor size, depth of invasion, lymph node metastasis (LNM) and TNM (Tumor, Node, Metastases) stage in patients suffering from CRC. AIM2 knockdown promoted CRC cell proliferation, migration and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) progress, whereas AIM2 overexpression did the opposite. AIM2 inhibited glioma-associated oncogene-1 (Gli1) expression through Smoothened homolog (SMO)-independent pathway and regulated CRC cell proliferation and migration in a Gli1-dependent manner. Moreover, AIM2 could modulate Protein kinase B (AKT)/mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway and the increased Gli1 expression and EMT progress induced by AIM2 depletion was reversed after incubation with AKT inhibitor Ly294002 in CRC cells. In conclusion, our results define AIM2 as a novel regulator of Gli1 in CRC cell growth and metastasis, and suggest that the AIM2/AKT/mTOR/Gli1 signaling axis may serve as a potential target for treatment of CRC.
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignant tumor and is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide [1, 2], with annually rising incidence rates and high mortality [3]. CRC patients diagnosed at early stage have a favorable prognosis, with a 5-year survival rate of 70% to 90% [4]. Unfortunately, some CRC patients are diagnosed at advanced or metastatic stages, with a low 5-year survival rate [5]. Therefore, it is of great clinical importance to identify novel targets and to establish timely and appropriate treatment to prevent CRC progression.
Absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2), as a member of the pyrin-HIN family proteins, was originally isolated from healthy melanocytes [6]. AIM2 senses cytosolic double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) and binds to its inflammasome adaptor, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a carboxy-terminal CARD (ASC), to activate the inflammasome [7, 8]. In addition to its role in inflammasome activation, AIM2 has recently been described as both a oncogene and tumor suppressor in different types of cancers. In oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), AIM2 was overexpressed and ectopic AIM2 expression enhanced OSCC cell proliferation and prevented cell apoptosis [9]. Furthermore, AIM2 was highly expressed in non-small cell lung cancer, and its overexpression facilitated cell growth and predicted poor survival of patients [10, 11]. On the other hand, excessive AIM2 expression suppressed tumor growth in breast carcinoma [12]. AIM2 was also reported to be down-regulated in hepatocellular carcinoma and loss of AIM2 expression contributed to hepatocarcinoma tumorigenesis and metastasis [13, 14]. Moreover, several recent studies demonstrated that lack of AIM2 expression exhibited oncogenic properties and was closely associated with poor outcome in CRC [15–18], but the precise functional roles and underling mechanisms of AIM2 in CRC remain to be further explored.
The Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway is considered to play an essential role in cancer development and progression, including CRC [19–21]. The Hh ligand, including Sonic Hedgehog (SHh), Indian Hegehog (IHh), and Desert Hedgehog (DHh), binds to its receptor, protein patched homolog (PTCH), leading to the release of the smoothened (SMO). Released SMO then activates glioma-associated oncogene 1 (Gli1) by blocking its inhibitory partner, suppressor of fused homolog (SUFU). The SMO-dependent Gli1 activation is termed as the canonical Hh pathway [22]. The Gli1 protein, as a key transcriptional factor of Hh pathway, can also be activated by protein kinase B (AKT), extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) in a SMO-independent manner, which is known as non-canonical Hh pathway [22, 23]. Although the classical Hh pathway has been well studied, how Gli1 is regulated by SMO-independent way remains elusive.
In this study, we discovered a reduced expression and anti-tumor properties of AIM2 in CRC. Moreover, our results provided new mechanistic insights into the crucial roles of AIM2 in suppressing Gli1 through regulating AKT/mTOR pathway, which reveals a possible implication for new approaches to CRC therapy.
AIM2 expression is significantly decreased in CRC tissues
To further explore the anti-carcinogenic roles of AIM2 in colorectal tumorigenesis, we firstly analyzed AIM2 protein expression in human CRC tissues and para-cancer normal tissues using Immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis. IHC staining revealed that high AIM2 protein expression was seen in 59.3% (51/86) of CRC tumor samples examined, whereas 79.5% (31/39) of normal tissues showed strong AIM2 signal (Figure 1A, 1B, Supplementary Figure 1 and Table 1). The difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001, Figure 1B). Further analysis showed that AIM2 level in human CRC tissues with LNM was lower than those released from LNM (P < 0.01, Figure 1A, 1C).
Figure 1. Expression of AIM2 protein in human CRC tissues. (A) IHC staining of AIM2 in CRC tumor tissues and surrounding normal tissues. (B) Scatter plot analysis of AIM2 IHC scores in CRC tumor tissues (n=86) and normal tissues (n=39). (C) Scatter plot analysis of AIM2 IHC scores in CRC tumor tissues with (n=31) or without LNM (n=55). **P<0.01, ***P<0.001, based on a two-tailed unpaired Student’s t-test.
Table 1. Correlation of AIM2 protein expression with clinic-pathological factors in 86 patients with CRC.
Clinic parameters Total AIM2 expression χ2 P value
None or low High
Total 86 35 (40.7%) 51 (59.3%)
<65 35 13 (37.1%) 22 (62.9%) 0.309 0.578
>=65 51 22 (43.1%) 29 (56.9%)
Male 58 22 (37.9%) 36 (62.1%) 0.565 0.452
Female 28 13 (46.4%) 15 (53.6%)
<5cm 47 14 (29.8%) 33 (70.2%) 5.112 0.024*
>=5cm 39 21 (53.8%) 18 (46.2%)
Tumor location
Left-sided colon 28 13 (46.4%) 15 (53.6%) 0.582 0.748
Right-sided colon 27 10 (37.0%) 17 (63.0%)
Rectum 31 12 (38.7%) 19 (61.3%)
Depth of invasion
T1-2 16 2 (12.5%) 14 (87.5%) 6.476 0.011*
T3-4 70 33 (47.1%) 37 (52.9%)
Lymph node metastasis
Yes 31 20 (64.5%) 11 (35.5%) 11.394 0.001**
No 55 15 (27.3%) 40 (72.7%)
TNM stage
I 13 0 (0%) 13 (100.0%) 13.699 0.003**
II 39 15 (38.5%) 24 (61.5%)
III 32 19 (59.4%) 13 (40.6%)
IV 2 1 (50.0%) 1 (50.0%)
Next, we investigated the clinical relevance of AIM2 expression in 86 CRC tumor tissues. Chi-square test analysis showed that reduced AIM2 in CRC was significantly associated with tumor size (P=0.024, Table 1), depth of invasion (P=0.011, Table 1), LNM (P=0.001, Table 1) and TNM stage (P=0.003, Table 1). However, there was no significant correlation between AIM2 protein level and other clinicopathological factors such as age, gender and tumor location (P > 0.05, Table 1).
Collectively, these results suggested that AIM2 is down-regulated in the development of CRC and loss of AIM2 correlates with some unfavorable clinicopathological features of CRC patients.
AIM2 expression in CRC cell lines
We first detected the levels of AIM2 protein in five different human CRC cell lines (HCT116, CCL244, SW480, SW620 and LoVo) by Western blot analysis. Compared with the low AIM2 protein expression in HCT116 and LoVo cell lines, AIM2 levels in SW480 and SW620 were much higher (Figure 2A).
Figure 2. AIM2 protein expression in human CRC cell lines. (A) Western blots of AIM2 protein in five human CRC cell lines (HCT116, CCL244, SW480, SW620 and LoVo). GAPDH as a loading control. (B) Western blots of AIM2 protein in SW480 and SW620 cells stably transfected with control-shRNA (NC) or shRNA against AIM2 (KD). GAPDH as a loading control. Each experiment was performed at least triplicate and the bands were quantified and presented as the mean±SEM. (C) Western blots of AIM2 protein in HCT116 and LoVo cells stably transfected with empty vector (VEC) or plasmid encoding human AIM2 (AIM2). GAPDH as a loading control. Each experiment was performed at least triplicate and the bands were quantified and presented as the mean±SEM. **P<0.01, based on a two-tailed paired Student’s t-test.
Thus, in the subsequent experiments, a lentivirus vector-based shRNA technique was used to stably knocked down AIM2 expression in SW480 and SW620 cells with relatively high endogenous AIM2 level, while plasmids encoding human AIM2 or corresponding empty vector were introduced into HCT116 and LoVo cells which express relatively low endogenous AIM2. Results from Western blot analysis showed that AIM2 protein level was significantly lower in SW480 and SW620 cells stably transfected with AIM2-targeting shRNA (KD) than those transfected with control-shRNA (NC) (P<0.01, Figure 2B), while AIM2 protein expression was greatly increased in cells stably transfected with human AIM2 (AIM2) compared to cells transfected with empty vector (VEC) (P<0.01, Figure 2C). Furthermore, we used an AIM2-specific siRNA to knock down AIM2 expression in SW620 cell line and the knockdown efficiency was confirmed by Western blot analysis (Supplementary Figure 2A).
AIM2 plays anti-carcinogenic roles in CRC
Considering AIM2 expression was greatly decreased in CRC tissues and reduced AIM2 in CRC correlated with tumor size, depth of invasion, LNM and TNM stage, we thus examined the potential oncogenic roles of AIM2 in CRC cells. Colony formation analysis showed that AIM2 knockdown in CRC cells significantly enhanced cell proliferation ability (P<0.01, Figure 3A and Supplementary Figure 2B), while ectopic AIM2 expression had the opposite effect in HCT116 cells (P<0.01, Figure 3B). In light of our in vitro findings, we tested the function of AIM2 in colorectal tumorigenesis with a nude mouse xenograft model. HCT116 cells stably expressing AIM2 (AIM2) or empty vector (VEC) were implanted onto the subcutaneous sites of nude mice. Growth of the implanted tumors was monitored and tumor sizes were measured every 4 days (Figure 3C). Results showed that tumor weights (Figure 3D) and sizes (Figure 3E) derived from AIM2-overexpressed HCT116 cells were notably reduced compared to their negative controls, suggesting the inhibitory effect of AIM2 on colorectal tumor growth.
Figure 3. AIM2 plays anti-carcinogenic roles in CRC. (A) Colony formation assays to test viability of SW480 cells stably transfected with control-shRNA (NC) or shRNA against AIM2 (KD). Quantitative analysis results were presented as the mean±SEM (n=3). (B) Colony formation assays to test viability of HCT116 cells stably transfected with empty vector (VEC) or plasmid encoding human AIM2 (AIM2). Quantitative analysis results were presented as the mean±SEM (n=3). (C) Subcutaneous xenograft tumor growth in nude mice (4 per group) was measured and compared in HCT116 (VEC vs. AIM2) cell lines, and the representative image of tumors was shown. (D) Scatter plot analysis of tumor weight of each group was presented. (E) The volumes of the tumors measured every 4 days during the indicated period were shown. (F) Transwell assays to test migration ability of SW480 NC and KD cells. Quantitative analysis results were presented as the mean±SEM (n=3). (G) Transwell assays to test migration ability of HCT116 VEC and AIM2 cells. Quantitative analysis results were presented as the mean±SEM (n=3). (H) Western blots of E-cadherin and Vimentin protein in SW480 and SW620 cells stably transfected with control-shRNA (NC) or shRNA against AIM2 (KD). GAPDH as a loading control. Each experiment was performed at least triplicate and the bands were quantified and presented as the mean±SEM. (I) Western blots of E-cadherin and Vimentin protein in HCT116 and LoVo cells stably transfected with empty vector (VEC) or plasmid encoding human AIM2 (AIM2). GAPDH as a loading control. Each experiment was performed at least triplicate and the bands were quantified and presented as the mean±SEM. *P<0.05, **P<0.01, based on a two-tailed paired Student’s t-test.
Next, we evaluated the effect of AIM2 on cell migration. Results from transwell assay showed that the migration ability of CRC cells was greatly enhanced when cells lacked AIM2 (P<0.01, Figure 3F and Supplementary Figure 2C). Inversely, HCT116 cells stably expressing AIM2 showed a significant decrease of migratory cells as compared with their negative controls (P<0.01, Figure 3G). To further explore the effect of AIM2 on tumor metastasis, we examined the protein markers of EMT progress, which is an early event in the metastasis of cancer [24, 25]. In AIM2-depleted SW480 and SW620 cells, the protein expression of epithelial marker E-cadherin was greatly decreased, while the mesenchymal marker Vimentin protein level was significantly increased (Figure 3H). On the contrary, AIM2 overexpression in HCT116 and LoVo cells markedly promoted E-cadherin expression, but inhibited Vimentin expression (Figure 3I).
AIM2 inhibits Gli1 expression through SMO-independent pathway in CRC
Numerous studies have demonstrated that aberrant Gli1 expression in Hedgehog pathway plays a critical role in the development of CRC [20, 26] and Gli1 promotes EMT in CRC cells [27, 28]. Thus, we speculated whether Gli1 is regulated by AIM2 in CRC cells. Interestingly, Gli1 protein levels were markedly increased in AIM2-depleted SW480 and SW620 cells compared to the negative control (Figure 4A). Conversely, AIM2 elevation notably impaired Gli1 protein expression in HCT116 and LoVo cells (Figure 4B). In accordance with previous studies [29, 30], elevated Gli1 protein expression occurred in HCT116 cells treated with 20 ng/mL TGF-β for 48 h (Figure 4C). Interestingly, the increased Gli1 protein expression induced by TGF-β treatment was reversed when cells overexpressed AIM2 (Figure 4C), indicating that AIM2 overexpression impaired the effect of TGF-β on Gli1 expression. In addition, AIM2 regulation of Gli1 was also examined in xenografted tumors. Results of IHC (Figure 4D) and Western blots (Figure 4E) showed a remarkably decreased expression of Gli1 protein in tumors derived from HCT116 cells stably expressing AIM2, suggesting Gli1 may be involved in tumor growth regulated by AIM2 in CRC.
Figure 4. AIM2 inhibits Gli1 expression independent of SMO. (A) Western blots of Gli1 and SMO protein expression in SW480 and SW620 cells stably transfected with control-shRNA (NC) or shRNA against AIM2 (KD). GAPDH as a loading control. Each experiment was performed at least triplicate and the bands were quantified and presented as the mean±SEM. (B) Western blots of Gli1 and SMO protein expression in HCT116 and LoVo cells stably transfected with empty vector (VEC) or plasmid encoding human AIM2 (AIM2). GAPDH as a loading control. Each experiment was performed at least triplicate and the bands were quantified and presented as the mean±SEM. (C) Western blots of AIM2 and Gli1 protein expression in HCT116 cells treated with 20 ng/mL TGF-β for 48 h. (D) Representative images of IHC staining of AIM2 and Gli1 in subcutaneous tumors derived from HCT116 (VEC vs. AIM2) cells. (E) Western blots of AIM2 and Gli1 protein expression in subcutaneous tumors. N, nonsignificant, *P<0.05, **P<0.01, ***P<0.001, based on a two-tailed paired Student’s t-test.
SMO, as the central signal transducer in the classical Hh pathway, activates Gli1 by blocking its inhibitory partner SUFU [22]. To investigate whether AIM2 inhibits Gli1 expression through SMO-dependent pathway, we used Western blot analysis to test SMO protein expression by AIM2 genetic manipulation in CRC cells. As shown in Figure 4A, 4B, AIM2 knockdown or overexpression had minimal effect on SMO protein level, indicating that there might be other molecules or signaling involved in the regulation of Gli1 expression by AIM2 in CRC cells.
AIM2 suppresses CRC cell proliferation and migration via regulating Gli1
To detect whether Gli1 is implicated in the regulation of AIM2 on CRC cell proliferation and migration ability, we used Gli1 specific siRNA to silence Gli1 expression in HCT116 cells with/without AIM2 overexpression. Results from colony formation assays showed that the proliferation ability of HCT116 cells was greatly impaired when AIM2 was overexpressed (P<0.01, Figure 5A), whereas there was no significant effect of AIM2 overexpression on cell proliferation property when cells lacked Gli1 (P>0.05, Figure 5A). Next, we conducted transwell migration assays to evaluate the effect of AIM2 on cell migration in the absence of Gli1. As shown in Figure 5B, the migratory HCT116 cells was markedly reduced when cells overexpressed AIM2 (P<0.01), but ectopic AIM2 failed to inhibit cell migration in Gli1-silenced HCT116 cells (P>0.05). Consistent with these results, forced expression of AIM2 potently enhanced E-cadherin expression but suppressed Vimentin expression (Figure 5C). However, ectopic AIM2-induced E-cadherin increases and Vimentin losses were reversed in Gli1-depleted HCT116 cells (Figure 5C).
Figure 5. AIM2 inhibits HCT116 cell proliferation, migration and EMT progress in a Gli1-dependent manner. (A) Colony formation assays to test viability of HCT116 cells stably transfected with empty vector (VEC) or plasmid encoding human AIM2 (AIM2) with or without Gli1 siRNA treatment. Quantitative analysis results were presented as the mean±SEM (n=3). (B) Transwell assays to test migration ability of HCT116 cells stably transfected with empty vector (VEC) or plasmid encoding human AIM2 (AIM2) with or without Gli1 siRNA treatment. Quantitative analysis results were presented as the mean±SEM (n=3). (C) Western blots of E-cadherin and Vimentin protein expression in HCT116 cells stably transfected with empty vector (VEC) or plasmid encoding human AIM2 (AIM2) in the presence or absence of Gli1 siRNA. GAPDH as a loading control. Each experiment was performed at least triplicate and the bands were quantified and presented as the mean±SEM. (D) Western blots of Gli1 protein expression in LoVo (VEC vs. AIM2) cells transfected with plasmids encoding human Gli1 or empty vector. (E, F) Colony formation assay (E) and transwell assay in LoVo (VEC vs. AIM2) cells transfected with plasmids encoding human Gli1 or empty vector. N, nonsignificant, *P<0.05, **P<0.01, based on a two-tailed paired Student’s t-test or ANOVA.
Furthermore, we used plasmids encoding human Gli1 to overexpress Gli1 in AIM2-overexpressed LoVo cells and the overexpression efficiency was confirmed by Western blot analysis (Figure 5D). Colony formation assays and migration assays showed that the decreased proliferation and migration ability induced by AIM2 overexpression was reversed after transfection with plasmids encoding human Gli1 (Figure 5E, 5F). Collectively, these above data suggested that AIM2 regulates CRC cell proliferation and migration in a Gli1-dependent pathway.
AIM2 regulates Gli1 expression and EMT progress through AKT/mTOR pathway
It has been reported that AIM2 regulates CRC cell viability via AKT pathway [15–17] and depletion of AIM2 expression promotes hepatocarcinoma progression through mTOR activation [13]. Our present study suggests the possibility that other molecules or signaling might be involved in the regulation of Gli1 expression by AIM2 independent of SMO in CRC cells. Considering that an activated AKT/mTOR pathway was reported to promote Gli1 activity in a SMO-independent manner [22], we thus raised a presumption that AKT/mTOR pathway might be implicated in AIM2-induced Gli1 inhibition.
In line with previous studies [13, 15–17], we further confirmed the inhibitory effect of AIM2 on AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. As shown in Figure 6A, 6B, depleted expression of AIM2 notably increased the levels of phosphorylated AKT (p-AKT) and phosphorylated mTOR (p-mTOR) in both SW480 and SW620 cells, with no effect on their total protein levels. Conversely, Western blot analysis also identified lower phosphorylation levels of AKT and mTOR in AIM2-overexppressed HCT116 and LoVo cells than the negative controls. We next treated AIM2-deficiency cells with Ly294002, an indirect inhibitor of AKT, to examine the role of AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in AIM2-mediated Gli1 suppression. Results showed that Ly294002 incubation remarkably suppressed AKT phosphorylation, followed by subsequent mTOR inhibition in AIM2-depleted SW480 and SW620 cells (Figure 6C, 6D). We also found that increased Gli1 protein expression induced by AIM2 knockdown was reversed in cells with Ly294002 treatment (Figure 6C, 6D), indicating the involvement of AKT/mTOR pathway in AIM2-regulated Gli1 inhibition. In addition, AIM2-deficency-mediated EMT progress was also reversed in cells incubated with Ly294002 as evidenced by the results that Ly294002 treatment significantly increased E-cadherin expression and suppressed Vimentin expression in AIM2-depleted SW480 and SW620 cells (Figure 6C, 6D).
Figure 6. AIM2 regulates Gli1-mediated EMT through AKT/mTOR pathway. (A) Western blots of indicated proteins in SW480 and SW620 cells stably transfected with control-shRNA (NC) or shRNA against AIM2 (KD). GAPDH as a loading control. Each experiment was performed at least triplicate and the bands were quantified and presented as the mean±SEM. (B) Western blots of indicated proteins in HCT116 and LoVo cells stably transfected with empty vector (VEC) or plasmid encoding human AIM2 (AIM2). GAPDH as a loading control. Each experiment was performed at least triplicate and the bands were quantified and presented as the mean±SEM. (C, D) Western blots of indicated proteins in SW480 (C) and SW620 (D) cells stably transfected with control-shRNA (NC) or shRNA against AIM2 (KD) with or without Ly294002 (20 μM). GAPDH as a loading control. Each experiment was performed at least triplicate and the bands were quantified and presented as the mean±SEM. *P<0.05, **P<0.01, based on a two-tailed paired Student’s t-test or ANOVA.
Collectively, our results indicated that AKT/mTOR pathway is indispensable for AIM2-regulated Gli1 inhibition and EMT progress in CRC cells.
The innate immune DNA sensor AIM2 was originally isolated from healthy melanocytes [6]. AIM2 directly binds dsDNA and initiates the recruitment of ASC and caspase-1 to activate the inflammasome [7, 8]. In cancers, the role of AIM2 is contentious and it could be either oncogenic or tumor suppressive. AIM2 protein levels were reported to be frequently overexpressed in several types of malignancies including OSCC and on-small cell lung cancer, and its overexpression promoted cancer progression and predicted poor survival of patients [9–11]. On the other hand, loss of AIM2 expression was observed in multiple tumor types including CRC [12–18]. In CRC, reduced AIM2 expression exhibited oncogenic properties and was closely associated with poor outcome [15–18]. However, the concrete molecular mechanisms of AIM2 in CRC development are elusive and remain to be further explored.
In the present work, we provide evidence that AIM2 was commonly downregulated in human CRC and was further reduced in those with LNM. Moreover, clinical data analysis showed that loss of AIM2 significantly correlated with tumor size, depth of invasion, LNM and TNM stage in patients suffering from CRC. On functional verification, our loss-of-function and gain-of-function experiments in vitro and in vivo suggested a tumor-suppressive role of AIM2 in CRC development. A published previous study [31] demonstrated that AIM2 enhanced invasion of HCT116 CRC cells, and they also found that Vimentin mRNA expression was increased, whereas E-cadherin mRNA expression was decreased in AIM2-overexpressed HCT116 cells, which conflicts with our findings. Our results showed that AIM2 inhibited CRC cell migration and reversed EMT progress as evidenced by the fact that disruption of AIM2 inhibited E-cadherin expression and promoted Vimentin expression while AIM2 overexpression did the opposite in CRC cells, which is consistent with the previous study [17].
The Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway plays an essential role in cancer development and progression [19, 20]. Gli1, as a key transcriptional factor of Hh pathway, has been proposed as a candidate oncogene in CRC [20, 26, 27]. In the present study, we found that AIM2 regulated Gli1 expression in CRC cells, which is evidenced by the following observations. Our in vitro experiments showed that Gli1 protein levels were markedly increased in AIM2-depleted cells, but notably decreased in cells with AIM2 overexpression. In addition, AIM2 regulation of Gli1 was also examined in xenografted tumors. IHC and Western blot results showed a remarkably decreased expression of Gli1 protein in tumors derived from HCT116 cells stably expressing AIM2.
To investigate whether Gli1 is responsible for AIM2 regulation of CRC cell proliferation and migration, we silenced Gli1 in HCT116 cells with/without AIM2 overexpression. Results showed that AIM2 overexpression impaired cell proliferation and migration ability and suppressed EMT progress which was reversed by Gli1 depletion. In addition, we found that the decreased proliferation and migration ability induced by AIM2 overexpression was reversed after transfection with plasmids encoding human Gli1 (Figure 5E, 5F), which indicated the anti-carcinogenic roles of AIM2 in CRC cells is mediated by Gli1.
SMO, as the central signal transducer in the classical Hh pathway, activates Gli1 by blocking its inhibitory partner SUFU [22]. However, AIM2-induced Gli1 suppression in CRC cells is unlikely through the classical Hh pathway since SMO protein expression was not affected by AIM2 genetic manipulation, indicating that there might be other molecules or signaling involved in the regulation of Gli1 by AIM2 in CRC cells.
Previous studies showed that AIM2 regulates CRC cell viability via AKT pathway [15–17] and an activated AKT/mTOR pathway promotes Gli1 activity in a SMO-independent manner [22]. In the present work, we found that AKT/mTOR pathway is implicated in AIM2-regulated Gli1 inhibition and EMT progress in CRC cells as evidenced by the fact that AIM2 depletion increased Gli1 protein expression and promoted EMT progress which was reversed by treatment of Ly294002, an indirect inhibitor of AKT.
In conclusion, we found that AIM2 expression was significantly decreased in CRC tissues and loss of AIM2 was strongly correlated with malignant properties of CRC cells. Mechanically, the tumor-suppressive functions of AIM2 in CRC were mediated through its participation in repressing the AKT/mTOR pathway, and the inactivated AKT/mTOR failed to increase Gli1 protein expression, resulting in the inhibition of cell proliferation and migration. This may highlight a new entry point for treating CRC by targeting the AIM2/AKT/mTOR/Gli1 signaling axis.
CRC tissues and cell lines
Fresh and formalin-fixed tissue samples were collected from patients who underwent surgical resection in the First Affliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College from January 2015 to January 2018. The clinicopathological features of these patients are shown in Table 1. The Institute Research Medical Ethics Committee of the First Affliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College granted approval for this study, which was conducted in compliance with the Declaration of Helsinki. Written informed consent was obtained from all patients.
Five human CRC cell lines (HCT116, CCL244, SW480, SW620 and LoVo) were obtained from the Cell Bank of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China. Cells were routinely cultured and incubated in RPMI 1640 medium (Gibco; Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc., Waltham, MA, USA) supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS; Gibco; Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc., Waltham, MA, USA) and 1% penicillin/streptomycin (P/S; Gibco; Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc., Waltham, MA, USA) at 37° C in a humidified atmosphere containing 5% CO2.
IHC staining of paraffin-embedded human or mice tumor samples were conducted according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Samples were deparaffinized, rehydrated, subjected to antigen retrieval, and blocked with 3% hydrogen dioxide, followed by incubating with the primary antibodies recognizing human AIM2 (dilution 1:200; #ab93015, Abcam) or human Gli1 (dilution 1:200; #ab15179, Abcam) overnight at 4° C. Next day, the sections were incubated with secondary antibody and were visualized using a tissue staining kit (Zhongshan Biotechnology, Beijing, China). Staining intensity was classified as 0 (lack of staining), 1 (mild staining), 2 (moderate staining) or 3 (strong staining); staining percentage was designated as 1 (<25%), 2 (25%-50%), 3 (51%-75%), or4 (>75%). The final staining score was calculated by the multiple of color intensity and positive cell percentage, which ranged from 0 to 12. Scores 0-4 were described as none or low expression, while 5-12 as high expression.
Protein extraction and western blot analysis
Cells or tumor tissues were lysed in cold RIPA buffer (Beyotime, Beijing, China) supplemented with protease inhibitors (Roche, CA, USA) and run on SDS-PAGE gels. After transferring to the PVDF membranes, immunoblots were analyzed using the primary antibodies at 4° C overnight and were incubated with fluorescent secondary antibodies for 1 hour. Then the proteins were visualized by chemiluminescence. Antibodies used in this study were listed in Table 2.
Table 2. Antibody information.
Name Company Catalog number Dilution
AIM2 Abcam ab93015 1:1000
p-AKT (Ser473) Cell Signaling Technology 4058 1:1000
AKT Cell Signaling Technology 9272 1:1000
p-mTOR Cell Signaling Technology 9205 1:1000
mTOR Cell Signaling Technology 2983 1:1000
E-cadherin Cell Signaling Technology 3195 1:1000
Vimentin Cell Signaling Technology 5741 1:1000
Gli1 Abcam ab151796 1:1000
SMO Abcam ab38686 1:1000
GAPDH Beyotime AG019 1:1000
Stable cell lines and small interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection
Lentiviral vectors plasmids were constructed by GENECHEM Biotech at Shanghai, China. Transfection procedures were performed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Briefly, cells were transduced with lentiviruses for 10 h and were selected with puromycin (4 μg/ml) for 7-10 days. Transfection of siRNAs targeting human AIM2 and Gli1 was performed with LipofectamineTM RNAiMax (Invitrogen) at a final concentration of 20 nM according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The sequences specific for human AIM2 are 5′-CCCGAAGATCAACACGCTTCA-3′ and 5′-GGAGAAAGUUGAUAAGCAA-3′. The sequence specific for human Gli1 5′-CUCCACAGGCAUACAGGAU-3′.
Cell viability and migration assay
For the colony formation assays, about 1,000 cells were cultivated in 6-well plates for 7-10 days. Colonies formed were washed with PBS, fixed with 4% paraformaldehyde (Beyotime, Beijing, China) and stained with 0.1% crystal violet (Beyotime, Beijing, China). Colonies containing more than 50 cells for each well were counted.
For transwell migration assays, cells were seeded into the upper chambers (Corning Incorporated, USA) in serum-free RPMI 1640 and the lower chamber was filled with RPMI 1640 containing 10% FBS. After incubation for 12-48 h, cells which had migrated through the membrane were fixed with 4% paraformaldehyde (Beyotime, Beijing, China) and stained with 0.1% crystal violet.
Subcutaneous xenograft
Nude mice (BALB/c, SPF grade, 16-18 g, 4-5 weeks and male) were purchased from Shanghai SLRC Laboratory Animal Co., Ltd. Nude mice were injected subcutaneously with 5×106 CRC cells. Body weight and tumor sizes were measured every 4 days. At the endpoint, tumors were harvested, weighted and stored for further analysis. All animal experimental procedures were approved by the Animal Ethics Committee of Wannan Medical College (Wuhu, China).
The results were shown as mean ± SEM. A two-tailed Student t-test was used to compare the variables of two groups and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used for the comparison of multiple groups. Analysis of IHC results was performed by chi-square statistical test or Fisher’s exact test. A P value of <0.05 was considered as significant.
Supplementary Figures
Menglin Xu conducted the research, analyzed the data, and wrote the manuscript. Junfeng Wang, Haoran Li, Zhengrong Zhang contributed to data collection and analysis. Zhengwu Cheng designed the study and wrote the manuscript.
The authors confirm that there are no conflicts of interest concerning this article.
This study was supported by the Nature and Science Fund from Wannan Medical College, CN (Grant Nos. WK2019F07, WK2019F09).
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Zhengwu Cheng
chengzhengwu@yjsyy.com
AIM2 proliferation migration Gli1 colorectal cancer
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<< Previous TITLE 8 / CHAPTER 12 / SUBCHAPTER II / Part IX / § 1363 Next >>
8 USC 1363: Deposit of and interest on cash received to secure immigration bonds Text contains those laws in effect on January 18, 2021
From Title 8-ALIENS AND NATIONALITYCHAPTER 12-IMMIGRATION AND NATIONALITYSUBCHAPTER II-IMMIGRATIONPart IX-Miscellaneous
Jump To: Source CreditMiscellaneous
§1363. Deposit of and interest on cash received to secure immigration bonds
(a) Cash received by the Attorney General as security on an immigration bond shall be deposited in the Treasury of the United States in trust for the obligor on the bond, and shall bear interest payable at a rate determined by the Secretary of the Treasury, except that in no case shall the interest rate exceed 3 per centum per annum. Such interest shall accrue from date of deposit occurring after April 27, 1966, to and including date of withdrawal or date of breach of the immigration bond, whichever occurs first: Provided, That cash received by the Attorney General as security on an immigration bond, and deposited by him in the postal savings system prior to discontinuance of the system, shall accrue interest as provided in this section from the date such cash ceased to accrue interest under the system. Appropriations to the Treasury Department for interest on uninvested funds shall be available for payment of said interest.
(b) The interest accruing on cash received by the Attorney General as security on an immigration bond shall be subject to the same disposition as prescribed for the principal cash, except that interest accruing to the date of breach of the immigration bond shall be paid to the obligor on the bond.
(June 27, 1952, ch. 477, title II, ch. 9, §293, as added Pub. L. 91–313, §2, July 10, 1970, 84 Stat. 413 .)
Abolition of Immigration and Naturalization Service and Transfer of Functions
For abolition of Immigration and Naturalization Service, transfer of functions, and treatment of related references, see note set out under section 1551 of this title.
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7-Eleven, 11 East 1700th South, Salt Lake City, UT, 84115-1907, convenience stores
Utah - List of United States Miscellaneous Food Stores, Drinks, Retail Bakeries, Frozen Meat & Fish Markets
Company Name: 7-Eleven
County: Salt Lake
City: Salt Lake City
Address: 11 East 1700th South
Contact Manager: Bart Kadleck
SIC code: 541103 Industry group: FOOD STORES, Business category: GROCERY STORES, Subcategory: CONVENIENCE STORES
Gross Annual Sales (Revenue): USD $ 1,820,000
Description: 7-Eleven is a business categorized under convenience stores, which is part of the larger category grocery stores. 7-Eleven is located at the address 11 East 1700th South in Salt Lake City, Utah 84115-1907. The Manager is Bart Kadleck who can be contacted at (801)466-7818.
Review: Convenience Stores | Gas Stations | Coffee & Tea,
Working hours: Mon: 12:00 am - 12:00 am, Tue: 12:00 am - 12:00 am, Wed: 12:00 am - 12:00 am, Thu: 12:00 am - 12:00 am, Fri: 12:00 am - 12:00 am, Sat: 12:00 am - 12:00 am, Sun: 12:00 am - 12:00 am
Location & access map for "7-Eleven"
Photo from "7-Eleven"
Click here add new review about: 7-Eleven (Meat, Fish, Fruit, Grocery Food Stores)
© 2013-2021 utah.food-us.org Food Markets, Health Foods, Seafood-Retail, Smoking & Curing Service, Drinks, Juices, Fruits-Glace, Doughnuts
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Sometimes called a bull or stud is a male serving a woman as her primary lover in relationships where she has more than one male servant.
A male who has become or has been reprogrammed to be a second male in a womans life – most often submissive and gentile.
power to direct or determine; “under control” — a relation of constraint of one entity by another; — exercise authoritative control or power over; “control the budget”; — the activity of managing or exerting control over something; “the control of the mob by the police was admirable”. — dominance: the state that exists when one person or group has power over another; “her apparent dominance of her husband was really her attempt to make him pay attention to her” — command: great skillfulness and knowledge of some subject or activity; “a good command of the subject.”
Creampie (sexual act)
Is a term used in pornography to describe when a male ejaculates inside his partner’s anus or vagina. The term also refers to the visible seeping or dripping of semen from the anus or vagina. Scenes of this type have become common in both male homosexual and heterosexual pornography since the turn of the century. [wikipedia]
Cuckold (sexual act)
In the realm of FLR ‘cuckold’ means a man who allows his wife or mate to have another male lover and participates or watches, and may or may not be used to clean her vaginal area after sex with her lover. Historically cuckold is a derogatory term for a man whose wife is or has been unfaithful. [wikipedia]
Desexualized
In the realm of FLR ‘desexualized’ means limiting or removing his access to sexual release and changing his socialization and sexuality. This can be as simple as chastity, orgasm denial and use of numbing creams or thick condoms or a great as reversing his sexuality from predator to prey.
One mate punishing another – usually by spanking, some kind of whipping and or time out.
Ruling over a sub – in this case commanding a sub to do things.
Equal relationships
Any relationship based on a the principles where both partner have equal decision making power – they make decisions together. Sometimes called 50/50 relationship.
Female Led Relationships
Any form of females control, leadership or management of a relationship with her man. 1. where she is leading, 2. where he is willfully following, 3) both acknowledge their roles.
Female dominance (or Femdom) is those BDSM relationships and BDSM scenes in which the dominant partner is female. Often a dominant woman, she may be prefer to be called a domme (pronounced /’d?m/), femdomme, domina, dominatrix, or dom, depending on context or personal preference. A female dominant in a master/slave relationship is often termed a mistress, not to be confused with the colloquial usage of mistress as a kept sexual partner without a similarly formalized power relationship. [wikipedia]
A form of kink which includes obedience and acts of worship such as foot worship, bowing, servant like behavior – one form of worship is tribute where the goddess gets paid by the worshiper.
The type of relationship that happens “on the rebound” where people look to fill needs they did not get in a past relationship. Also called a transitional relationship.
One who has at-least one follower.
leader – a person who rules or guides or inspires others — the activity of leading; the status of a leader; the ability to lead;
manage – be in charge of, act on, or dispose of — oversee: watch and direct — do: carry on or function.
One mate punishing another – usually by spanking, some kind of whipping and/or time out.
Submitting to a the will of another (volunteering), sometimes called willful compliance.
Traditional relationships
Any based on a term of tradition such as male Head of Household (HoH). A relationship based on religious principles or traditional core values..
Unequal relationship
Any relationship where one partner had more decision making authority than another.
Over 70% of FLR women want men to bow to them
Woman’s Guide to getting full disclosure about your mans desire to have a Female Led Relationships
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How Do We Ensure A Creative And Accountable Future For TV And Video Ads?
by AdExchanger // Tuesday, September 8th, 2015 – 12:04 am
"On TV and Video" is a column exploring opportunities and challenges in programmatic TV and video.
Today’s column is written by Jason Miller, director of product management, brand measurement at Google.
I'm often deeply impressed by the creativity of TV ads. I loved the sentimentality of P&G's "Thank You, Mom" ads, the humor of Dodge Durango's Ron Burgundy ads and the absurdity of Old Spice's "Dadsong" ad.
Ads like these win industry awards, attract positive press coverage and generate excited social media chatter. While some ads are immediately successful, it is not known how effective most campaigns are until weeks – or even months – after they run.
This is a measurement challenge that will be solved through more census-based measurement.
Advertisers Need Mid-Campaign Feedback
Too much of the approximate $70 billion in TV ad spend, in the US alone, is based on annual media mix models. Clearly, advertising produces great results for some brands. P&G estimated that its "Thank You, Mom" campaign for the 2012 summer Olympics resulted in a $500 million sales lift. And when Ron Burgundy played a starring role in Dodge Durango ads, the SUV brand saw a 59% increase in year-over-year sales.
But faster measurement insights could be game-changing. What if a $500 million sales lift could be optimized to a $600 million sales lift, or if a 59% increase could be optimized to a 75% increase? Or, what if advertisers had access to insights that would help them intervene and turn around a poorly performing campaign?
An accountable future for TV and video will leverage the best of traditional TV and digital video measurement. GRP-based measurement of traditional TV should be extended to digital video in order to provide a complete view of reach and frequency. Census-based measurement of digital video should be extended to traditional TV in order to measure impression-level detail and interaction while campaigns are running, instead of days, weeks or months after.
The impetus to leverage a combination of panel-based and census-based measurement will grow as the technical limitations to doing both fade away. Some forms of traditional TV delivery can already measure every impression and provide that census-based measurement. The final missing piece is 100% coverage for census-based measurement across traditional TV and digital video.
Every year, the industry gets closer to 100% coverage. This empowers advertisers to measure what viewers see, think and do in response to advertising during a campaign, not after it, and will improve measurement in the following ways in the near future.
Greater Accuracy About What Viewers See
Advertisers will get a more accurate picture of what viewers see through greater access to viewability measures, an evolving GRP metric and by filtering census-based metrics according to audience segment.
With viewability measures, advertisers can favor the digital video impressions that approach the high bar set in TV where all ads have a chance to be seen on the screen. There's a long way to go here since 46% of digital video ads are not viewable.
Finally, viewability, GRP and census-based metrics like video plays, quartiles and completions will all be studied by audience composition so that advertisers can get a more accurate picture of what certain audience segments see. Advertisers will be able to understand, for example, if some audience segments see ads through to completion more than others.
Deeper Insights Into What Viewers Think
More census-based measurement will also provide deeper insights into what viewers think after being exposed to ads. For decades, the traditional TV industry has leveraged brand surveys to understand things like whether or not an ad was memorable.
With census-based measurement, brand surveys can be tied to viewable impressions so that only people who have viewed an ad can respond to a brand survey. Then, rich audience data about exposed audiences can be repurposed to describe survey respondents and allow aggregate survey data to be sliced and diced for deeper analysis. For example, an auto advertiser could slice survey data to study the difference between auto intenders and the general population.
Ideally, advertisers will be able to seamlessly attach brand surveys to every TV and video campaign and then see the results during the campaign, not after. Innovation in this area could go even further to allow advertisers to buy media based on brand lift points.
More Information About What Viewers Do
Finally, more census-based measurement will provide more information about what viewers do after being exposed to ads. With specific insight into who saw an ad, advertisers will be able to analyze activity across search, web and mobile applications after ads run, down to the minute, to interpret and determine advertising's impact on online activity and engagement. Advertisers will see which networks, programs, ad lengths and ad creatives are the most effective at motivating viewers to engage online.
Furthermore, TV will gain from the census-level insights prevalent in digital video that make it easier to go beyond measuring online activities by measuring offline purchases, sales lift, cross-device conversions and customer lifetime value.
The direction that TV measurement is headed will make these gut decisions easier because advertisers will have faster access to more data points. As a result, advertisers will make better creative decisions, ads and media investments. They'll feel empowered to alter course mid-campaign. Ultimately, they'll produce better financial results while delivering a better viewer experience.
Follow DoubleClick (@DoubleClick) and AdExchanger (@adexchanger) on Twitter.
CTV Measurement Is Doomed Unless Google, Roku, Apple And Amazon Collaborate
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Home ANIME My Hero Academia The Movie is coming soon in the Philippines
My Hero Academia The Movie is coming soon in the Philippines
The first feature film of My Hero Academia is finally confirmed to screen in Philippines soon.
Pioneer Films to release My Hero Academia The Movie soon in the Philippines#TheBestofAnime2018#BOA2018 pic.twitter.com/j0MAISWzYz
— animePHproject (@animePHproject) August 25, 2018
A large promotional poster of My Hero Academia: Two Heroes film with a tag “Coming Soon’ is shown at the booth of Pioneer Films during the Best of Anime 2018. The film distributor is one of the exhibitors of the anime convention, which is happening on August 25-26 at the SMX Convention Center Manila.
The film sets after the anime series’ second season.
Deku and All Might are invited to a summer trip at “I Island”, a man-made island where the top scientists of the world reside and perform research on Quirks. During their stay, Izuku meets Melissa Shield, one of the island’s residents who is Quirkless, like he was once, and they become close friends. When the mysterious villain Wolfram takes control of the island, threatening to kill all its residents, it falls to the Hero Association and the students of U.A. High to stop him
The film opened in Japan on August 3. The film is set to screen soon in other countries of Southeast Asia.
“Boruto” is Crunchyroll’s most-watched anime of 2020 in PH
“How Not to Summon a Demon Lord” coming soon on POPTV
WeTV adds “Attack on Titan”, “The King’s Avatar”, more titles to line-up
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Search For "delhi metro"
Driverless operations in Delhi Metro's Pink Line by mid 2021
Updated : 2 weeks, 3 days ago IST
New Delhi [India], January 2 (ANI): Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) on Saturday announced that Pink Line will also have driverless operations by mid of 2021.
Delhi Metro restricts exit at four stations today
New Delhi [India], January 1 (ANI): The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) on Friday said it has closed exit gates at four stations -- Khan Market, Mandi House, Central Secretariat and Supreme Court -- to reduce overcrowding due to the ongoing pandemic situation.
Delhi Metro issues new guidelines for travelling on New Year's Eve
New Delhi [India], December 30 (ANI): To ease overcrowding on New Year's Eve (December 31), Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) on Wednesday rolled out a new set of guidelines.
NCMC operationalised on Delhi Metro's Airport Express line with Ru
Updated : 3 weeks ago IST
New Delhi [India], December 29 (ANI): Delhi Metro Rail Corporation will accept the national common mobility card (NCMC) for travel on 23-km Airport Express line from New Delhi station to Dwarka sector 21, National Payments Corporation of India (NCPI) said on Tuesday.
'We feel very proud', say commuters on India's first driverless me
Updated : 3 weeks, 1 day ago IST
New Delhi [India], December 28 (ANI): Several passengers expressed pride and excitement as they rode India's first-ever driver-less train on the Delhi Metro's Magenta Line on Monday, after it was inaugurate by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Delhi is capital of major global, strategic power and this glory m
New Delhi [India], December 28 (ANI): Delhi is the capital of a major global, financial and strategic power, that has a population of over 130 crores and this glory must reflect, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday. He also assured that the government will make lives of the people
Metro services to reach over 25 cities by 2025, says PM Modi
New Delhi [India], December 28 (ANI): By 2025, metro train services will be expanded to over 25 cities across the country, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi while adding that "Make In India" is essential for the expansion.
PM Modi inaugurates India's first-ever driverless metro train
New Delhi [India], December 28 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India's first-ever driverless train on Delhi Metro's Magenta Line and launched National Common Mobility Card on the Airport Express Line on Monday, via video conferencing.
PM Modi to inaugurate India's first-ever driverless train operatio
New Delhi [India], December 27 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate India's first-ever driverless train operations on the Delhi Metro's Magenta Line (Janakpuri West-Botanical Garden) on Monday.
PM to inaugurate India's first-ever driverless DMRC metro on Dec 2
New Delhi [India], December 26 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate India's first-ever driverless train operations on Delhi Metro's Magenta Line (Janakpuri West - Botanical Garden) on December 28 at 11 am via video conferencing.
Delhi Metro completes 18 years in service
New Delhi [India], December 24 (ANI): The Delhi Metro has officially stepped into its adulthood as it completes 18 years in service, said the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) on Thursday.
Delhi metro to and from NCR curtailed till 2 pm today due to farme
Updated : 1 month, 3 weeks ago IST
New Delhi [India], November 26 (ANI): Delhi metro services to and from the National Capital Region (NCR) will be restricted on Thursday till 2 pm in view of the November 26-28 farmers' rally against the new farm laws.
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Anorak News | Thomas Markle declared clinically sane
Thomas Markle declared clinically sane
by Anorak | 15th, May 2018
Thomas Markle will not be at this daughter Meghan Markle’s wedding to Harry Windsor. The groom’s family is hosting the do, which means Thomas Markle flying from his home in Mexico to London, meeting myriads of strangers, being shackled and shaped by their huge teams of minted PRs, obsequious lackeys and armed goons, and welcomed warmly into the bosom of what absurdly passes for a modern twist on monarchy. All tabloids lead with the news. But none of them know for certain. He might come. He might not.
In this age of fluid gender roles, it’s a gentleman’s prerogative to arrive at the wedding. We used to like the story of the groom being jilted at the alter, now we’re wondering if a 73-year-old bloke can be arsed to go though all that guff to see his daughter married for the second time.
Get Thomas!
The Mail, which “exposed” “fake” photos of Thomas being boring as he looked at screengrabs of his daughter and her Chinger prince, tried on a suit and rode a cheap exercise bike, now invites Richard Kay to says the “world” feels “nothing but sympathy” for a man possessed of a “quiet dignity”. But he is “humiliated” by his “reckless agreement” to broadcast and allegedly flog photos of himself to the Press rather than lettering the Mail broadcast and flog photos of him without his permission. It is “regrettable and sad” that this “basically honourable man” will be absent from Meg’s big day. The Sun calls it a “bombshell”.
The Express says Thomas doesn’t want to “embarrass the Royal Family”, something you’d think impossible to do, given that the clan of feckless ninnies ride around in gold coaches, suck toes, cheat on their spouses, hang out with paedos (allegedly), dress up as Nazis (both real and for larks) and gave us this:
The Star and Mirror, however, wonder if Thomas has suffered a heart attack. The Mirror also says Thomas “claims” he has “been harassed by snappers”. Or as the Sun notes: “He was pictured driving away from his home last Wednesday and staying the night at a motel in San Diego after crossing the US border. The next day… he lifted two heavy pots of flowering plants on Doria’s [Meghan’s mother] doorstep in Los Angeles with a card. He was then seen driving around LA, visiting the post office, pharmacy and bank before heading bak to Mexico that evening.”
Who’d envy that?
Posted: 15th, May 2018 | In: News, Royal Family, Tabloids Comment | TrackBack | Permalink
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Movies & TV New Releases Best Sellers Deals Blu-ray 4K Ultra HD TV Shows Kids & Family Anime All Genres Prime Video Your Video Library
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The Godfather Collection (The Coppola Restoration) [Blu-ray]
Marlon Brando (Actor), Al Pacino (Actor), Francis Ford Coppola (Director, Producer, Writer) & 0 more Rated:
Additional Blu-ray options Edition Discs
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Mario Puzo’s The Godfather, Coda: The Death of Michael Corleone (Blu-ray + Digital)
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The Godfather Coppola Restoration [Blu-ray] [1972] [Region Free]
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Synopsis: The Godfather: The multi-generational crime saga The Godfather (1972) is a touchstone of cinema: one of the most widely imitated, quoted, and lampooned movies of all time. Marlon Brando and Al Pacino star as Vito Corleone and his youngest son, Michael, respectively. It is the late 1940s in New York and Corleone is, in the parlance of organized crime, a "godfather" or "don," the head of a Mafia family. Michael, a free thinker who defied his father by enlisting in the Marines to fight in World War II, has returned a captain and a war hero. Having long ago rejected the family business, Michael shows up at the wedding of his sister, Connie (Talia Shire), with his non-Italian girlfriend, Kay (Diane Keaton), who learns for the first time about the family "business." A few months later at Christmas time, the don barely survives being shot by gunmen in the employ of a drug-trafficking rival whose request for aid from the Corleones' political connections was rejected. After saving his father from a second assassination attempt, Michael persuades his hotheaded eldest brother, Sonny (James Caan), and family advisors Tom Hagen (Robert Duvall) and Sal Tessio (Abe Vigoda) that he should be the one to exact revenge on the men responsible. After murdering a corrupt police captain and the drug trafficker, Michael hides out in Sicily while a gang war erupts at home. Falling in love with a local girl, Michael marries her, but she is later slain by Corleone enemies in an attempt on Michael's life. Sonny is also butchered, having been betrayed by Connie's husband. As Michael returns home and convinces Kay to marry him, his father recovers and makes peace with his rivals, realizing that another powerful don was pulling the strings behind the narcotics endeavor that began the gang warfare. Once Michael has been groomed as the new don, he leads the family to a new era of prosperity, then launches a campaign of murderous revenge against those who once tried to wipe out the Corleones, consolidating his family's power and completing his own moral downfall. The Godfather was followed by a pair of sequels. The Godfather PART II: This brilliant companion piece to the original The Godfather continues the saga of two generations of successive power within the Corleone family. Coppola tells two stories in Part II: the roots and rise of a young Don Vito, played with uncanny ability by Robert De Niro, and the ascension of Michael (Al Pacino) as the new Don. Reassembling many of the talents who helped make The Godfather, Coppola has produced a movie of staggering magnitude and vision. The Godfather PART III: One of the greatest sagas in movie history continues! In this third film in the epic Corleone trilogy, Al Pacino reprises the role of powerful family leader Michael Corleone. Now in his 60's, Michael is dominated by two passions: freeing his family from crime and finding a suitable successor. That successor could be fiery Vincent (Andy Garcia)... but he may also be the spark that turns Michael's hope of business legitimacy into an inferno of mob violence. Francis Ford Coppola directs Pacino, Garcia, Diane Keaton, Talia Shire, Eli Wallach, Sofia Coppola, Joe Montegna and others in this exciting, long-awaited film that masterfully explores the themes of power, tradition, revenge and love.
Francis Ford Coppola's Masterpiece features Marlon Brando in his Oscar-winning role as the patriarch of the Corleone family. Director Coppola paints a chilling portrait of the Sicilian clan's rise and near fall from power in America, masterfully balancing the story between the Corleone's family life and the ugly crime business in which they are engaged. Based on Mario Puzo's best-selling novel and featuring career-making performances by Al Pacino, James Caan and Robert Duvall, this searing and brilliant film garnered ten Academy Award nominations, and won three including Best Picture of 1972.
People used to say this was Frank Sinatra's world, and the rest of us just lived in it. After watching the multiple special features in the box set The Godfather - Coppola Restoration, one might conclude it's actually time for a cultural and historical revision: This is the Corleone family's world. The rest of us better tread lightly. Actually, the point of the half-dozen or so features crammed onto a disc accompanying the beautifully restored The Godfather, The Godfather II and The Godfather III, is that The Godfather movies have penetrated popular culture in such a deep and meaningful way that they are second-nature to everything. David Chase, creator of and writer on The Sopranos, for example, describes in the featurette "Godfather World" that his hit HBO series was intended to be the story of the first generation of mobsters actually influenced by Francis Ford Coppola's hit trilogy. Joe Mantegna calls the three films "the Italian Star Wars." (Mantegna co-stars in The Godfather III.) Alec Baldwin says no matter what one is doing, one is compelled to stop and watch the films if they're on television. Richard Belzer calls the films "a religion." And so on. A number of people similarly testify in "Godfather World" to the importance and ubiquitousness of The Godfather and its sequels in American life. There's no point in arguing, so its best to move on to the other featurettes, including "The Masterpiece That Almost Wasn't," reviewing in detail much of what has been said about Paramount's mistreatment of Coppola, about casting fights (Steve McQueen as Michael?), about the studio's assumption they were getting a quick-and-dirty B-movie, and about producer Robert Evans' determination to keep his choice of director and unlikely actors under his wing. Fresh information within the special features, however, begins with "… When the Shooting Stopped," a fine study of post-production on The Godfather, with several surprising and fascinating facts. Among emerging details is an explanation of why Michael Corleone's scream toward the end of The Godfather III is silenced out. (Hint: it was meant to be the inverse of a sound effect in the first movie.) "Emulsional Rescue: Revealing The Godfather" talks about the painstaking work of restoring the first two films, beginning with a phone call from Coppola to Steven Spielberg (after the latter's DreamWorks studio became part of the Viacom family) asking if he'd request money from Paramount for restoration work. "The Godfather On the Red Carpet is a negligible series of fawning statements about the movie from hot young actors, while "Four Short Films" are brief and enjoyable takes on different aspects of The Godfather's impact on modern living. --Tom Keogh
Stills from The Godfather - The Coppola Restoration Giftset (Click for larger image)
Aspect Ratio : 1.85:1
MPAA rating : s_medR R (Restricted)
Product Dimensions : 7.5 x 4.25 x 1.12 inches; 4.48 Ounces
Item model number : PRT138644BR
Director : Francis Ford Coppola
Media Format : Blu-ray, Color, Widescreen, Closed-captioned
Run time : 14 hours
Actors : Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, James Caan, Diane Keaton, Robert De Niro
Dubbed: : French, Spanish
Subtitles: : French, Portuguese, Spanish, English
Producers : Albert S. Ruddy, Charles Mulvehill, Francis Ford Coppola, Fred Fuchs, Fred Roos
Language : English (Dolby Digital 5.1), English (Mono)
Studio : Paramount Home Entertainment
ASIN : B000NTPDSW
Writers : Francis Ford Coppola, Mario Puzo
Number of discs : 4
Best Sellers Rank: #14,096 in Movies & TV (See Top 100 in Movies & TV)
#1,543 in Drama Blu-ray Discs
#1,809 in Action & Adventure Blu-ray Discs
5.0 out of 5 stars How could you say no?
How could you say no to this price and the Godfather trilogy? If you are a fan or the movies you cannot go wrong with this! I liked it so much that I went ahead and purchased more for my brothers. Great for yourself or gift.. the packaging looks good too!
SeanTop Contributor: Baby
5.0 out of 5 stars 2/3 of a great trilogy
The Godfather is one of my all time favorite movies. Godfather II was also really good. These two movies pretty much cover what's in the book. The book is pretty much the first movie and all of the DeNiro flashback scenes from the second. The third movie? Well...it was a movie. You can put it on that long list of "Part III" movies that were much worse than the first two. X-men III, RoboCop III, Spiderman III, Alien III...the list goes on.
My original review was not posted because it was a review of the condition of the product when it arrived. Let's just say it was not a 5-star review. I'll say that the box it arrived in was in great shape, as well as the other products in said box.
alankhorst
1.0 out of 5 stars Terrible video quality! Proceed with Caution!
This is one of my all-time favorite trilogies. However, we didn't sit down to watch it for quite some time after purchasing it. This was a new DVD, but the quality of the video was terrible! It had snow throughout the entire first movie, but it is now past my return window. The one star rating does not reflect the movie itself, but the quality of the DVD. If you buy this, watch it quickly so you can return it if needed.
3.0 out of 5 stars Used, not new
Discs appear to be in good condition but it looks like this is a used copy not a new one. The box wasn’t in great condition and the case itself was cracked. Additionally the plastic pieces that hold the discs are partially broken so the discs just fall right out when you open the case. I would expect better quality with paying $30.
5.0 out of 5 stars The Godfather is home again
My son and I are both huge fans of the Godfather movies. He had these DVDs before, but he took them to a friends house for a movie night, and they were stolen. I ordered this from Amazon as part of his Christmas present. They arrived promptly, they were packaged securely for safe shipping, and they were new not used. And each movie has played as they were supposed to (no skips etc).
4.0 out of 5 stars It’s great, but got big European box instead!
I ordered this set thinking it was going to be one case with all four discs inside it on flipper trays. What I got instead was a large box with four individial cases. The first three containing each film and the fourth containing the supplements. And this seems to be the European version, since it has all those rating icons on the discs. I didn’t send it back because I didn’t know any better back then. I thought at the time, well maybe thats how it is. But lately I’ve seen videos on YouTube that show the thinner box with flipper trays. No European film rating icons on them. So, beware.
2.0 out of 5 stars Omerta Edition = terrible, cheap packaging
Now that I've recieved the set, I can see why so many are breaking their discs trying to get them out (and then claiming they arrived broken). The idiots at Paramount in their infinite wisdom decided to put together a special numbered edition with pictures, trivia cards, etc and pack it into a cool looking book-style box. What they failed to do is care for the discs themselves. Instead of an actual digipack with proper trays, they've opted for thin, flimsy cardboard panels with only hubs glued in to hold the discs. Might be ok if they'd used decent hubs, but these things won't release the discs unless you practically break a finger pushing in the middle, or bend the disc til it breaks. I haven't decided whether to just store mine in proper cases, or send it all back for being difficult to use. "Difficult to use" is not a phrase one normally encounters with optical discs...
Livn4U
5.0 out of 5 stars GODFATHER SERIES All 3 movies collection
So Happy . :)))
All 3 movies are in 1 case.
((( F U L L S C R E E N ))) What I Wanted,, Which these days are Really hard to find !!! They offer CAPTIONS on all 3 movies, In English and other languages as well, and with these movies, In some scenes, You really need to see them. We have watched the 1st movie it's a Clear picture , good sound, We are on the second one now, So far so good, the same Clear picture and good sound. We tested the 3rd movie begining . The same as the other 2 movies.
Fast Shipment, and Good Price. New Sealed in plastic.We Will buy more from this seller ;)))
1.0 out of 5 stars Waste of money!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on January 9, 2018
This item refused to play on our machine. I have yet to contact Amazon for instructions. What a waste of money! Husband very disappointed.
Ubik K.
1.0 out of 5 stars VIENE ROTOS LOS DISCOS - NO LO COMPRES SI TE INTERESA LA TRILOGÍA
Reviewed in Mexico on December 10, 2018
Todo bellísimo, las tarjetas, los imanes y tal... pero los discos vienen rotos, que tal vez si lo mencionaran en la descripción uno podría decidir si quiere el resto del KIT por este precio, aunque compre los discos por otro lado. Ese no es mi caso estoy en proceso de devolución del producto.
El producto viene tan maltratado que perece que ya había sido devuelto, lo envían en un sobre, literal un sobre. :/
Alvaro Figueroa
4.0 out of 5 stars La edición es muy buena en general
Reviewed in Mexico on August 13, 2018
Trae algunas cosas como imanes para refrigerador con frases de las películas, postales, cartas de trivia, etc. El único pero que le pondría es que los discos vienen un poco apretados en el empaque. Hay que tener cuidado al sacarlos ya que se pueden romper fácilmente. Incluso tuve que devolver un primer paquete porque un disco ya venía dañado.
Suzanne Fortier
4.0 out of 5 stars Excellent except sounds levels variation in DVD 3
Reviewed in Canada on November 30, 2020
Excellent remastering. Sound excellent on first 2 DVD. Godfather lll vocal sound to low, compared to actions and firings sounds way too loud. Had to lower volume between each sets. DVD 1 and 2 all sounds excellent.
Deusdedit Diez de Sollano
1.0 out of 5 stars Roto.
Reviewed in Mexico on December 3, 2018
Estaba esperando con ansias el upgrade a Blu Ray, sin embargo el pedido llegó con detalles.
El de la caja es menor porque es probable de que haya pasado en el trayecto, pero el Blu Ray de la primera parte está roto.
No sé si se deba al empaque -que es de dudosa calidad- o por error de fabrica.
The Hannibal Lecter Collection (Manhunter / Silence of the Lambs / Hannibal) [Blu-ray]
Pages with related products. See and discover other items: al pacino movies, marlon brando movies, diane keaton movies, oscar isaac, robert duvall, sagas in spanish
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Home / American Football / Red hot Calgary Stampeders climb Nissan Titan Power Rankings
Red hot Calgary Stampeders climb Nissan Titan Power Rankings
TORONTO — Timing is important in the Canadian Football League.
With five games remaining, the Calgary Stampeders are playing their best football of the season, winning a fourth straight contest and moving into a first-place tie with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the highly-competitive West.
For the Stamps, who played without star quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell for two months, there couldn’t be a better time to heat up as they look to secure a first round bye along with a home playoff date at McMahon.
Elsewhere, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats continue their upward trend after winning on the road, while the BC Lions have inched forward following a second straight win over Ottawa.
More in the Nissan Titan Power Rankings.
1. Calgary Stampeders
Bo Levi Mitchell‘s 4-0 since returning from injury, but defence has been the difference in Calgary. The Argos moved the chains just three times in the first half and were sacked six times in all, as the Stamps cruised to victory despite the absence of league-leaders Cory Greenwood and Reggie Begelton.
2. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Record: 10-3
June Jones left and Jeremiah Masoli got injured, yet the Ticats possess the CFL’s second-ranked offence with just five games remaining. First-year head coach Orlondo Steinauer has done a remarkable job given the injuries his team has been dealt. There’s little doubt the Ticats are a contender.
3. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
While the offence dried up, Richie Hall’s defence allowed scoring drives of 98, 83, and 94 yards in the fourth quarter as the Alouettes stormed back from 24 points down for the victory — one that may wind up haunting the Bombers should they find themselves traveling to McMahon come November.
4. Saskatchewan Roughriders
The Riders know how to win close games. First-time starter Cody Fajardo has come through in almost every clutch situation, including last-minute wins over Hamilton, Winnipeg and Montreal. It’s a good trait to have as the final third of the season gets under way and the post-season approaches.
5. Montreal Alouettes
The Alouettes have a young, energetic coach, a budding star at quarterback and a ‘wow’ factor like no one else. There’s still work to be done — the defence ranks third-last with 401.4 points allowed per game — but Vernon Adams Jr. and his explosive group of playmakers are must-see TV every time.
6. Edmonton Eskimos
Logan Kilgore had his ups and downs, but most concerning for the Eskimos was their defence, which allowed three touchdowns of 40-plus yards in the first half vs. Hamilton. The Eskimos are in no danger of missing the playoffs right now, but the pressure is mounting for Head Coach Jason Maas.
7. BC Lions
Record: 3-10
The Lions’ offensive line has allowed just three sacks over the last three games, including a home-and-home sweep of the REDBLACKS. Yes, the post-season remains a longshot, but success over the last five games would mean plenty for this team going into the off-season.
8. Toronto Argonauts
The Argos’ defence kept Calgary’s injury-plagued receiving corps in check, but quarterback McLeod Bethel-Thompson had no answers on the other side of the ball. As playoff chances fade, a six-game audition for James Franklin makes sense for the Argos, who need to start thinking about 2020.
9. Ottawa REDBLACKS
REDBLACKS quarterbacks have struggled this season, but the defence hasn’t fared better, allowing 548 yards in a loss to the Lions. With 10 losses in their last 11 games, things just haven’t gone according to plan for Rick Campbell and Marcel Desjardins. They’ll look for a spark vs. Edmonton.
WEEK-BY-WEEK RANKINGS
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 ARCHIVE
Related ItemsAmerican FootballBC LionsCalgary StampedersCanadaCanadian Football LeagueCFLEdmonton EskimosHamilton Tiger-CatsMontreal AlouettesNewsNissan Titan Power RankingsOttawa RedblacksPower RankingsSaskatchewan RoughridersToronto ArgonautsWinnipeg Blue Bombers
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For trusted and reliable service, hire American Leak Detection of Columbus
Chuck Blanchard
Field Operations Manager
Joined ALD in 2000
Chuck was born and raised in Southern California where he grew to love the outdoors. At 19 he became a Certified Executive Chef, bought and operated a restaurant at 23, and spent a total of 20 years in the restaurant management industry. After a job offer from his high school friend Steve West, he moved to central Ohio in April 2000 and joined Team Columbus. One week after arriving in Columbus, Chuck met is wife and they now have 3 children, 2 girls, 1 boy in the middle....(Yikes!) His hobbies include woodworking, motorcycles, and he still enjoys cooking. His creativity in the kitchen has transferred to leak detection, allowing him to think on the fly in tough situations. Along with his PADI® SCUBA certification and extensive experience these traits have enabled him to excel as the Field Operations Manager at American Leak Detection of Columbus. Chuck was honored at the 2010 Convention as American Leak Detection's Technician of the Year from over 300 territories world-wide for 2009. Congrats Chuck!!
Paul Close
Leak Specialist
Paul's experience before American Leak Detection was 10 years working in the paintball industry where he was a certified technician specializing in sales and technical support. He is interested in imported cars, vintage station wagons, movies, paintball, and dominating his 3 boys in Nerf gun battles. When his daughter is old enough she will thrash them all! Paul's work ethic, resourcefulness, customer focus, and his ability to cram himself into tight areas (he is 5'2" & 130lbs) make him a true asset to our customers in the field.
Steven West
Owner / Leak Specialist
Steve came to Team Columbus in 1998 after opening and running the American Leak Detection office in Indianapolis, IN. Prior to American Leak Detection he went to college in New Mexico and spent nine years in USAF Special Operations. The varied environments, challenging jobs, and being in the water are what appealed to him and brought him to the leak detection business. He has experience in the pool and spa business going back to 1982 when he installed his first in-ground spa with his friend and Field Operations Manager, Chuck. He is married to Lisa and they have a son who is in the Ohio Air National Guard.
Do-It-Yourself Leak Test
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5 Star Reviews From Past Customers!
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"As expected, the two leaks you located were right on the money"
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"Great work"
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"Great employees and very responsible company."
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"Amazing service 100% recommend"
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"Their greatest strength has been their customer service and communication"
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For a nation that explores
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'Zero-G and I Feel Fine': Remembering John Glenn's Return to Space, OTD in 1998
By Ben Evans, on October 29th, 2020
OTD in 1998, #JohnGlenn returned to space on Discovery as part of 7-person #STS95 crew, incl @AstroDocScott & @astro_duque. […]
The Single Data Point: Remembering John Glenn's Return to Space (Part 2)
President Bill Clinton introduces the STS-95 crew, including John Glenn, at a press conference at the Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston, Texas, in April 1998. Photo Credit: NASA
Three weeks before the New Era began, the Old Era ended.
Today, 1998 is remembered as the year in which the on-orbit fabrication of […]
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'A Chart Jumped Out At Me': Remembering John Glenn's Return to Space (Part 1)
On 29 October 1998, at the age of 77, John Glenn became the oldest person ever to venture into space. It is a record which still stands. Photo Credit: NASA
Even today, almost two decades since his headline-grabbing flight, veteran Project Mercury astronaut John Glenn retains the world record as the oldest living […]
'A Wonderful Moment For Us All': 10 Years Since Discovery Came Safely Home to Earth (Part 2)
By Ben Evans, on August 9th, 2015
Discovery touches down at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., on 9 August 2005. Ten years ago, today, STS-114 marked the Return to Flight (RTF) of the shuttle fleet after the Columbia tragedy and opened the door for the completion of the International Space Station (ISS). Photo Credit: NASA
Ten years ago, today, Space […]
'Return to Flight, Not Rush to Flight': 10 Years Since Discovery Came Safely Home to Earth (Part 1)
Discovery sits on the runway at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., on 9 August 2005, after completing STS-114, the first post-Columbia shuttle mission. Photo Credit: NASA
Ten years have now passed since the first space shuttle streaked safely back to Earth on 9 August 2005, in the aftermath of the Columbia disaster. The […]
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'The Most Complex So Far': What 2003 Might Have Been
By Ben Evans, on February 9th, 2015
Columbia roars into orbit for the 28th and final time on 16 January 2003. Eighty-two seconds into the ascent, a chunk of foam from her External Tank would spell disaster for the outcome of STS-107. Photo Credit: NASA
Twelve years ago, last weekend, Shuttle Columbia and the crew of STS-107—Commander Rick Husband, Pilot […]
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Home> Mac
The Truth about MacBook Air Battery Life
by Anand Lal Shimpi on February 7, 2008 12:00 AM EST
When Steve Jobs announced that the MacBook Air would have a 5 hour battery life, I laughed. Short of Apple sticking a hydrogen fuel cell in the Air there was simply no way you were going to get 5 hours out of this thing under any sort of heavy usage. What shocked me even more is how few questioned the 5 hour figure. Have we all forgotten about optimistic battery life ratings? I like to give Apple the benefit of the doubt and not call out RDF whenever a new product with exciting features launches but seriously folks - 5 hours?
We're still hard at work on the MacBook Air review, but this data was too important not to share right away. By now you've heard that under "normal" usage, the Air can only manage about 2.5 hours of battery life. That's true and at the same time it isn't. I touch on part of this in the review, but the MacBook Air isn't designed to be your work notebook - no ultra portable is. It's a notebook for a writer, for someone taking notes in class; it's a second notebook, or a third system. As such, the typical usage model can be very different than your standard notebook.
At the same time, most of the people considering the Air aren't looking at it as a second notebook or a third system, they are looking at it as their primary notebook (and will be left sorely disappointed or frustrated after a while). The end result is that you need a handful of battery life tests to really cover all bases. And that's what I've done.
I scripted together three tests: wireless web browsing, DVD playback and a multitasking workload.
The wireless web browsing test uses the 802.11n connection to browse a series of 20 web pages varying in size, spending 20 seconds on each page (I timed how long it takes me to read a page on Digg and came up with 36 seconds; I standardized on 20 seconds for the test to make things a little more stressful). The test continues to loop all while playing MP3s in iTunes. This test is designed to simulate the intended usage of the MacBook Air: something you can carry around with you to class, work, on the train, etc... to comfortably and quickly browse the web, take notes and generally be productive all while listening to music. It's like a big iPhone...without the phone part.
Despite the lack of an internal optical drive (I've never been so tempted to use the f-bomb in a review before), the MacBook Air will play DVDs. You just kind of need to have them on your hard drive and I'll just assume you have the original disc safe at home. This test is simple: I play Blood Diamondin a loop until the battery runs out.
The final test is the multitasking workload, and this test isn't really that intensive for a normal system but thanks to the terribly slow iPod hard drive in the Air - it's quite stressful. For this benchmark I'm downloading 10GB worth of files from the net (constant writes to the drive), browsing the web (same test as the first one) and watching the first two episodes of Firefly encoded in a 480p XviD format (Quicktime is set to loop the content until the system dies). There's nothing too extreme about this workload, I could definitely come up with worse - but this would be light to moderate usage on a MacBook or a MacBook Pro, and it'll show how the Air stacks up.
The system was set to never shut off the display and never go to sleep, although the hard drive was allowed to spin down when possible. The display brightness was set at 9 blocks (just over 50%), which I felt was comfortable for both day and night viewing. The system itself was a standard MacBook Air with an upgrade to a 1.8GHz processor, but used the regular PATA hard drive - not the SSD (I'll touch on SSD performance once I get my drive).
Ready for the results?
Apple's 5 hour claim is laughable but not as much as I expected. If I wanted to I suspect I could hit 5 hours by making the web browsing test less stressful, but my focus was on real world usage scenarios, not proving Apple correct. Regardless, 4 hours and 16 minutes doing what I consider to be the intended usage model of the Air is respectable. It's not great, but it's not terrible either.
The DVD playback test is also decent, you can watch a full length movie on the Air (even The Godfather). But watching two back-to-back isn't possible (although I do think you could squeeze two viewings of Rambo in there and frighten your fellow airline passengers).
And then we have the multitasking scenario. At just under two and a half hours, this isn't your do-everything notebook. That should've been obvious from the get-go with the whole lack of an optical drive, 2GB memory limit and no built-in Ethernet port.
I'll save more thoughts and discussion for the full review but this data was too important not to share.
On a side note, in doing the DVD playback testing on the MacBook Air I realized something I hadn't previously about Leopard. It looks like Apple finally fixed the horrible de-interlacing problems with its previous DVD player application. There are now actual de-interlacing controls and image quality seems vastly improved; I may have to run HQV to see what sort of improvement there is over Tiger. What took me so long to notice this about Leopard? Well it seems like Apple has finally fixed issues with DVD playback, just when everyone is starting to move to HD-DVD and Blu-ray. Great.
Be sure to read our other MacBook Air coverage:
Inside Apple's MacBook Air
The MacBook Air Ethernet Dongle: Performance Explored
JKT - Thursday, February 7, 2008 - link
Quote: "It's a notebook for a writer, for someone taking notes in class; it's a second notebook, or a third system. As such, the typical usage model can be very different than your standard notebook."
Given that this is the intended market sector, is there any chance you could actually test the optimal battery life you can obtain under these conditions? That is, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth off, doing text entry/word processing only. I'd also like to see if its possible to get longer than the "5 hour" Wi-Fi claim for someone who would like to actually work on their MBA rather than play on it.
Anand Lal Shimpi - Thursday, February 7, 2008 - link
That's a tough one to script but I'll see if there's anything I can do. If anyone has any suggestions let me know :) Reply
mmntech - Thursday, February 7, 2008 - link
From my own experience, I think you should get 5hrs under optimum conditions. My 2005 iBook G4 gets about 4.5 to 5hrs with Wifi/Bluetooth off, CPU on reduced, and brightness turned to minimum. I find Leopard draws more power than Tiger did since it uses the GPU more. I used to get 5.5 to 6hrs under Tiger. I use mine mostly for not taking.
I can't speak for the Air but I find that Apple is usually pretty truthful in what they say when it comes to battery life. It's the primary reason I bought a Mac laptop rather than a PC one. At the time, PC ones were usually 3-4 hours so getting 6hrs was a big deal. If you're interested in a Mac laptop though, I'd get the vanilla MacBook instead of the Air since it costs less but has more/better features. Reply
Oops, that's "writer" test not "wrtier" test :( Reply
matt321 - Thursday, February 7, 2008 - link
Just a question but was Bluetooth enabled? It shouldn't impact the numbers too much but it gives me a few extra minutes on my regular macbook Reply
Bluetooth was enabled on all tests. Reply
DarkDTSHD - Thursday, February 7, 2008 - link
Thanks for doing th test. 4 and some odd hours doing wireless internet surfing isn't bad. I suppose doing word porcessing and some light photo editing would get you rougly 4 hours as well. Much better than the time I get with my Toshiba Qosmio G30. Where the average time is 2 hours and 20 minutes. But it is a power hungry beast.
I wonder what the battery life is on the MacBook Pro 15" laptops. Is 4 hours reasonable to expect doing general tasks? (e.g. web browsing, e-mailing, word processing...etc.).
Wait for the review and you'll see a comparison to the 2.0GHz 15" MacBook Pro I reviewed when it was released :) Reply
Doormat - Thursday, February 7, 2008 - link
Did the DVD test have WiFi on or off? I guess I'm interested in an "airplane" test where you watch movies with all wireless turned off. If the DVD test was that then cool. Reply
WiFi was enabled, but the impact shouldn't be too great. At least this way you have a minimum battery life value :)
-A Reply
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The Lady Bulldogs opened the season with a big win. Josh Dutton/Star-News
Lady Bulldogs use big inning to knock off Straughn
By Josh Dutton
Published 12:00 am Saturday, February 24, 2018
The Andalusia Lady Bulldogs opened up the 2018 season with a big 13-6 victory on the road against the Straughn Lady Tigers.
Andalusia got on the board in the opening frame when Zariah Jones drove in Sydney Ray on a hard-hit ground ball.
The Lady Tigers answered back in the bottom of the first inning when Ellie Guilford came around to score on an error.
Dallas Mackoff struck out the first Lady Bulldog batter in the top of the second inning and kept the score 1-1 heading into the home half.
Lady Bulldogs’ starting pitcher Sydney Arnett went to work in the bottom of the second inning and struck out three batters.
The score remained tied until the bottom of the third inning when the Lady Tigers took the lead.
Mackoff picked up a one-out single and the moved to second on a bunt single from Colby Adams.
The Lady Tigers then got three-straight hits to go up 4-1.
In the top of the fourth, Ray reached on a walk and then Alaina Nettles belted a home run to cut the Lady Tigers’ lead to 4-3.
The Lady Bulldogs then tied the game on a double by Amerson.
Millie Manring followed with a single to put the Lady Bulldogs on top 5-4.
Caroline Wood crossed the plate for Straughn in the bottom of the fourth to tie the game.
The Lady Bulldogs took the lead for good when Chloe Mikel drove in two runs in to top of the fifth inning.
In the top of the seventh inning, the Lady Bulldogs opened up the flood gates.
Reagan Clarke ripped a two-run double to center that put the Lady Bulldogs up 9-5.
A few batters later, Morgan Bledsoe sent a line-drive single to left field that allowed two more Lady Bulldogs to come around to score.
The Lady Bulldogs capped off their scoring with a two-run single from Arnett.
Straughn didn’t give up and picked up a run in the bottom of the seventh.
The Lady Bulldogs held off Straughn for a 13-6 win.
Kinsaul steps away from coaching after two decades
After two decades as a high school basketball coach, Straughn Lady Tigers’ head coach Scott Kinsaul has decided to step... read more
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APSPublicationsMPMI1997November
A Host-Controlled, Serogroup-Specific, Ineffective-Nodulation System in the Bradyrhizobium-Soybean (Glycine max) Symbiosis
November 1997 , Volume 10 , Number 8
Pages 994 - 1,001
David L. Pazdernik , 1 Carroll P. Vance , 1 , 2 Michael J. Sadowsky , 3 Peter H. Graham , 3 and James H. Orf 1
1Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics, 411 Borlaug Hall, University of Minnesota, St. Paul 55108, U.S.A.; 2USDA-ARS, 411 Borlaug Hall, University of Minnesota, St. Paul 55108, U.S.A.; and 3Department of Soil, Water, and Climate, 439 Borlaug Hall, University of Minnesota, St. Paul 55108, U.S.A.
http://dx.doi.org/10.1094/MPMI.1997.10.8.994
Accepted 14 July 1997.
We have previously reported a soybean plant introduction, PI 437153A, which was ineffectively nodulated (definition of G. Vest, D. F. Weber, and C. Sloger, Agronomy 16:353--390, 1973) by Bradyrhizobium japonicum strain UMR (University of Minnesota Rhizobium) 161. In this study, we further characterize this nodulation system by (i) examining the nodulation of 21 B. japonicum strains, representing 15 serogroups, with PI 437153A, (ii) ascertaining the inheritance of the ineffective nodulation, and (iii) characterizing the symbiosis both morphologically and physiologically. Only USDA 126 (serogroup 125) and UMR 161 failed to produce effective nodules with PI 437153A. Segregation among F2 and F3 plants from a cross between cv. Lambert and PI 437153A was consistent with control of this trait by a single, dominant gene. In reciprocal grafts between cv. Lambert and PI 437153A, ineffective nodulation was determined by the root genotype, and was independent of plant growth temperature and inoculant concentration. The nodule dry weight of UMR 161-inoculated plants of PI 437153A plants was approximately 10-fold less than that of comparable plants inoculated with USDA 110; nodule soluble protein levels were also significantly reduced. Nitrogenase activity and leghemoglobin could not be detected in the ineffectively nodulated phenotype, but 1 to 6 days after inoculation (DAI) phenylalanine ammonialyase RNA level was higher in the ineffectively nodulated phenotype than in the effectively nodulated one. Microscopic examination of effective and ineffective nodules 20 and 35 DAI revealed major morphological differences. Ineffective nodules contained large, deteriorating regions near apparently infected plant cells at 35 DAI, and schlerenchyma cells that were stained red, suggestive of lignin deposition. These changes could be the result of incompatibility between host and Bradyrhizobium, though the lack of chalcone synthase expression and the appearance of infected cells within the ineffective nodules suggest that some later steps in the infection process do occur.
The American Phytopathological Society, 1997
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Home > News > Market Moves > China’s Fund Industry Forecast to Quintuple by 2025
Market Moves April 23, 2018
China’s Fund Industry Forecast to Quintuple by 2025
UBS said it expects Chinese mutual fund assets to reach nearly $7.5 trillion.
China’s mutual fund assets are forecast to increase by a factor of five to Rmb47 trillion ($7.49 trillion) by 2025, according to UBS, and could create a fee pool for mutual fund providers worth $42 billion a year.
In late 2017, the Chinese government announced reforms designed to spur the growth of China’s investment industry. As part of those reforms, China plans to relax or eliminate foreign ownership limits on domestic financial services firms, including asset managers, which is intended to attract greater involvement by large international investors. The changes mean foreign firms will be allowed to own stakes of up to 51% in securities ventures and fund management companies, and China will scrap foreign ownership.
And just this week, the Chinese government said it will substantially reduce restrictions for foreign investors to further open up the economy. A spokesperson for the National Development and Reform Commission said at a news conference the government will impose a much smaller number of restrictions, and unveil opening-up measures in fields such as finance, automobiles, energy, resources, infrastructure, transportation, commercial circulation, and professional services.
“The opportunity is substantial but it all depends on the progression of reform and deregulation,” Kelvin Chu, an analyst with UBS, told the FT. “The lifting of foreign shareholder limits in mutual fund companies should be appealing to many [international investors].”
Earlier this year, Fidelity International announced it is seeking to enter the mutual fund and pension fund market in China.
“China is a market of high strategic importance to us,” Daisy Ho, Fidelity’s managing director for Asia excluding Japan, told a news conference in Shanghai in January. “Any development in opening up China’s capital markets, whether it’s about the mutual, private, or pension fund market, we’re hugely interested.”
Foreign asset managers own minority stakes in 19 of the country’s top 30 mutual fund companies, often in partnerships with domestic commercial banks, according to the FT.
Stewart Aldcroft, Asia chief executive of CitiTrust, the securities and fund services arm of US bank Citigroup, told the FT that the decision to allow foreigners to own 100% of mainland fund management companies by 2020 had provided a “huge opportunity” for international firms.
“The challenge is partly in comprehending the scale of the opportunity in China, as well as getting set up to participate,” he said. “Many global managers are disbelieving, sitting in their offices in New York, Boston, and London. They need to come and see for themselves.”
Tags: China, Industry Forecast, Mutual Fund, UBS
By Michael Katz
« Pension Reform Hurts Public Sector Competitiveness
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Ethical framework
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OXFAM and the Aga Khan Foundation establish 5 ECD centres in Khatlon, Tajikistan.
OXFAM and the Aga Khan Foundation establish 5 ECD centres in Khatlon, Tajikistan
In an effort to increase the number of Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres and contribute to the implementation of national educational programmes, OXFAM and the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) established five ECD centres in Tajikistan.
AKTC receives two awards, for Sustainable Development and Excellence, from UNESCO
The Aga Khan Trust for Culture has won two important awards from UNESCO’s Asia-Pacific regional office – for cultural heritage conservation and sustainable development – in Delhi’s Sunder Nursery. The prizes include the 2020 Award for Special Recognition for Sustainable Development and the 2020 Award for Excellence.
AKTC completes conservation works on Abdur Rahim Khan-i-Khanan’s Mausoleum in Delhi
The Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC), in partnership with the Archaeological Survey of India and the InterGlobe Foundation, completed the conservation of Abdur Rahim Khan-i-Khanan’s Mausoleum in Delhi, India, on 17 December 2020.
Aga Khan Agency for Habitat wins World Habitat Awards Gold Award
The Aga Khan Agency for Habitat won the World Habitat Awards 2020 Gold Award today for its “Integrating Indigenous Knowledge and Technology for Safer Habitat” project.
Aga Khan reaffirms commitment to Afghan peoples and to a peaceful, pluralistic Afghanistan
In a statement delivered at the virtually held 2020 Afghanistan Conference by AKDN’s Diplomatic Representative to Afghanistan Sheherazade Hirji, His Highness the Aga Khan, on behalf of the Ismaili Imamat and the Aga Khan Development Network, today reaffirmed his enduring commitment to a peaceful and pluralistic Afghanistan.
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University of Central Asia (1) Apply University of Central Asia filter
Prince Rahim and Princess Salwa Aga Khan visit Pakistan
His Highness the Aga Khan receives ULI J.C. Nichols Prize
AKAH Aga Khan Agency for Habitat
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Standard Specification for High Load Rotational Spherical Bearings for Bridges and Structures
Active Standard ASTM D5977 | Developed by Subcommittee: D04.32
This specification covers bridge bearings that consist of a spherical rotational element, where a stainless steel convex surface slides against a concave carbon steel plate covered with woven or sheet polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The function of the bearing is to transfer loads and to accommodate any relative movement, including rotation between a bridge superstructure and its supporting structure, or both. The requirements of spherical bearings with a standard horizontal load (a maximum of 10 % of vertical) are discussed. The bearings are furnished in three types: fixed spherical bearing which is for rotation only, unidirectional sliding spherical bearing which is for rotation plus movement in one direction, and multi-directional sliding spherical bearing which is for rotation plus movement in all directions. The materials to be used in producing the bearings include: steel, stainless steel (flat sliding surface and convex surface), woven fabric polytetrafluoroethylene, and sheet polytetrafluoroethylene. The following different test methods shall be performed: proof load and rotation tests for fixed and expansion bearings, coefficient of friction test for expansion bearings only, PTFE (woven or sheet) bond test for expansion bearings only, and physical property test of both PTFEs for fixed and expansion bearings.
1.1 This specification covers bridge bearings that consist of a spherical rotational element, where a stainless steel convex surface slides against a concave carbon steel plate covered with woven or sheet polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The function of the bearing is to transfer loads and to accommodate any relative movement, including rotation between a bridge superstructure and its supporting structure, or both.
1.2 This specification covers the requirements of spherical bearings with a standard horizontal load (a maximum of 10 % of vertical).
1.3 The requirements stated in this specification are the minima necessary for the manufacture of quality bearing devices. It may be necessary to increase these minimum values due to other design conditions.
1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.5 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the test method portion, Section 7, of this specification: This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
A36/A36M Specification for Carbon Structural Steel
A167 Specification for Stainless and Heat-Resisting Chromium-Nickel Steel Plate, Sheet, and Strip
A240/A240M Specification for Chromium and Chromium-Nickel Stainless Steel Plate, Sheet, and Strip for Pressure Vessels and for General Applications
A572/A572M Specification for High-Strength Low-Alloy Columbium-Vanadium Structural Steel
A588/A588M Specification for High-Strength Low-Alloy Structural Steel, up to 50 ksi [345 MPa] Minimum Yield Point, with Atmospheric Corrosion Resistance
A709/A709M Specification for Structural Steel for Bridges
D638 Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics
D792 Test Methods for Density and Specific Gravity (Relative Density) of Plastics by Displacement
D1457 Specification for Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Molding and Extrusion Materials
D1777 Test Method for Thickness of Textile Materials
D2256 Test Method for Tensile Properties of Yarns by the Single-Strand Method
AASHTO Standard
AASHTO Standard Specifications for Highway Bridges
AWS Standards
C.2.2-67 Metalizing with Aluminum and Zinc for Protection of Iron and Steel
D.1.5 ANSI/AASHTO/AWS Bridge Welding Code
ICS Number Code 93.040 (Bridge construction)
UNSPSC Code 31171510(Spherical bearings)
ASTM D5977-15, Standard Specification for High Load Rotational Spherical Bearings for Bridges and Structures, ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA, 2015, www.astm.org
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Strengthening US alliances and partnerships in an era of great-power competition: A conversation with US Secretary of Defense Mark Esper
Tue, Oct 20, 2020 1:00 PM
AN #ACFRONTPAGE EVENT – US Secretary of Defense Mark Esper joins the Atlantic Council’s #ACFrontPage event series in conversation with Atlantic Council CEO Frederick Kempe to discuss the importance of alliances and partnership in US national security and how to enhance and expand those relationships.
As the global community continues to grapple with COVID-19 (coronavirus), the Atlantic Council is open for business. Our business, meetings, and events, however, are occurring virtually. For more information, please read a statement from our President and CEO.
Recap of the event
Defense Secretary unveils a new strategy for bolstering allies and partnerships in an era of great-power competition
As the United States prepares for long-term competition with adversaries such as China and Russia, the Department of Defense is unveiling new plans to strengthen America’s network of alliances and partnerships. “Our global constellation of allies and partners remain an enduring strength that our competitors and adversaries simply cannot match,” US Secretary of Defense Mark Esper said during an Atlantic Council Front Page event on October 20.
New Atlanticist by David A. Wemer
China Defense Industry
Transcript: Strengthening US alliances and partnerships with US Secretary of Defense Mark Esper
Secretary Esper discussed how the United States can expand and deepen its global networks of allies and partners, leverage security and defense cooperation to build allied capacity and capability overseas, and improve interoperability to ensure more seamless combined operations against great-power adversaries.
ACFrontPage by Atlantic Council
China Defense Policy
At the Atlantic Council on Tuesday, October 20, 2020, US Secretary of Defense Mark T. Esper outlined the Department of Defense’s strategic framework for prioritizing and strengthening allies and partners, including those in the Indo-Pacific, Middle East, and Europe.
Dr. Mark Esper, Acting Secretary of Defense, poses for his official portrait in the Army portrait studio at the Pentagon in Arlington, Va., June 20, 2019. (U.S. Army photo by Monica King)
The Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security and its Forward Defense practice area were pleased to present this live online conversation as part of the #ACFrontPage event series, our premier ideas platform spotlighting global leaders who are championing constructive solutions to global challenges. In accordance with the legacy of our late namesake, former National Security Advisor General Brent Scowcroft, the Scowcroft Center works to develop sustainable, nonpartisan strategies to address the most important security challenges facing the United States and the world. The Center embodies General Scowcroft’s ethos of nonpartisan commitment to the cause of security, support for US leadership in cooperation with allies and partners, and dedication to the mentorship of the next generation of leaders. In a renewed era of great-power competition, this mission is more important than ever.
Accordingly, the Secretary of Defense has identified the imperative to strengthen alliances and attract new partners as a pillar of the 2018 National Defense Strategy. Against the backdrop of traditional and non-traditional security challenges posed by China and Russia, the role of allies and partners in our shared defense remains crucial. In conversation with Atlantic Council President and CEO Fred Kempe, Secretary Esper discussed how the United States can expand and deepen its global networks of allies and partners, leverage security and defense cooperation to build allied capacity and capability overseas, and improve interoperability to ensure more seamless combined operations against great-power adversaries.
Frederick Kempe
Europe & Eurasia German
An #ACFrontPage event
Atlantic Council Front Page is our premier live ideas platform for global leaders to discuss the defining challenges of our time.
Atlantic Council Front Page
#ACFrontPage harnesses the convening power and expertise of the Council’s fourteen programs and centers to spotlight the world’s most prominent leaders and the most compelling ideas across sectors. The virtual platform engages new audiences eager for nonpartisan and constructive solutions to current global challenges. This widely promoted 45-minute program features the Council’s most important guests and content serving as the highlight of our programming each week.
View the event series
The Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security works to develop sustainable, nonpartisan strategies to address the most important security challenges facing the United States and the world.
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Nyiragongo Volcano
Mount Nyiragongo has erupted at least 34 times since 1882 & is home to the world's largest lava lake.
Wikimedia (Wikicommons)
Volcano shelters Cai Tjeenk Willink/Wikimedia (Creative Commons)
Wikimedia (Creative Commons)
Top Places in Democratic Republic of the Congo
Monument to African Dictator Laurent Kabila
Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Gbadolite
Gbadolite, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Senkwekwe Mountain Gorilla Center
You’d think that the last place on Earth people would want to inhabit would be the bottom of a steep volcano hosting the world’s largest fluid lava lake. Despite the constant threat of catastrophic fiery death, the area at the foot of Mount Nyiragongo is dotted with highly populated bustling villages.
One such disaster occurred in 1977, when the walls of the crater burst open and the lake of molten rock drained in less than an hour, pouring itself down into the villages at a terrifying speed of up to 60 mph. Unlike your average lava flow, the unique presence of an alkali-rich volcanic rock, melilite nephelinite, creates a highly fluid consistency, allowing it to move at speeds that can easily overcome anything in its path. The official death toll was 70, but many report much higher numbers, some estimating the losses at several thousand.
The 1977 eruption took place when the lake was at its maximum depth ever recorded, 10,700 ft., but the extent of its volume varies depending on activity. No one knows how long the volcano has been active, but since 1882 it’s been very busy, erupting at least 34 times, occasionally bubbling and spewing fire for years before settling down.
Located inside Virunga National Park about 20 km. North of Goma, Mount Nyiragongo is currently still active, its last deadly eruption taking 147 lives in 2002. Its activity is, for now, being confined to the crater, where the lake of lava is slowly rising once more.
fiery wonders martian landscapes volcanoes geological oddities natural wonders
Annetta Black, Allison, Martin
-1.5223, 29.2496
Congo Nile Trail
Dian Fossey's Grave
Gisenyi, Rwanda
A hiking/biking/exploring trail that winds across over 140 miles of Rwandan shoreline.
Musanze, Rwanda
Burial site of the world's most widely known researcher on the endangered mountain gorilla.
Kisoro, Uganda
The home of half the world's population of critically endangered mountain gorillas.
Kuruhimbi Milk Bar
One of the capital's last independent milk bars remains a crucial community watering hole.
Mt. Erebus
Fire meets ice at the southernmost volcano on Earth.
Baku, Azerbaijan
Mud Volcanoes of Azerbaijan
Home to nearly a third of the world's mud volcanoes, Azerbaijan is home to a messy, bubbling, and sometimes explosive landscape.
Banyuputih, Indonesia
Think you have a tough job? Try carrying 200 kilos through a cloud of sulfur down the side of a volcano.
Pozzuoli, Italy
Phlegraean Fields
A sulfuric hellscape in southern Italy.
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Showing results by narrator "Shareena Clanton" in All Categories
The White Girl
By: Tony Birch
Narrated by: Shareena Clanton
A searing new novel from leading Indigenous storyteller Tony Birch that explores the lengths we will go to in order to save the people we love. Odette Brown has lived her whole life on the fringes of a small country town. After her daughter disappeared and left her with her granddaughter Sissy to raise on her own, Odette has managed to stay under the radar of the welfare authorities who are removing fair-skinned Aboriginal children from their families.
Loved every minute of this book
By Anonymous User on 20-08-2020
5 out of 5 stars 309 ratings
The Fringe Dwellers
By: Nene Gare
Set in a remote area of Western Australia, The Fringe Dwellers is the story of two part-Aboriginal sisters, Noonah and Trilby, who leave the mission they call home to return to their family's camp on the fringe of white society. Noonah is pragmatic and accepts her position, only wanting to raise money for the family. But Trilby refuses to believe that her current position will define the rest of her life.
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Sunrise over the IRL: Indy's oval boys go to Japan and talk about taking the series to the next level
By CURT CAVIN
Veteran race team owner Ron Hemelgarn groused as he considered the Indy Racing League returning to Japan for races in each of the next two seasons, per the contract league president Tony George signed with officials from the Twin Ring Motegi circuit last year.
“I [personally] won’t be back, but next year if they have a straw vote over who wants to come from my team, there might not be any straws left,” he said. “I could see [this race] as an expo at the end of the season, but to come before Indy [again], man, that’s risky.”
In terms of the demolition derby seen last weekend, Hemelgarn, who has been in Indy Car racing since 1984, might be right. The IRL’s inaugural race, the Indy Japan 300, saw eight accidents among 12 drivers, and Phoenix race winner Tony Kanaan suffered a radial fracture of his left forearm. His status for next month’s Indianapolis 500 is in question. Helio Castroneves, Scott Dixon and Jaques Lazier all left Motegi in various degrees of pain, though each should answer the opening bell at the Speedway on May 5.
Despite this carnage, most people in the IRL would admit the first try at Motegi was a success. For starters, the pre-trip organization of men and machine went smoothly, and everyone and everything arrived in plenty of time.
“It went as well or better than any trip we ever made with CART,” said one Andretti Green Racing crew member.
As for the Motegi facility, well, the IRL learned what CART has known since it began racing here in 1998: This is the most sophisticated and best laid-out racing venue in the world. Any series would do well to have such a host.
It is difficult, too, to imagine a place where the IRL could be better welcomed. Honda,the track builder and owner, clearly made the effort with an Indy 500 display, including four winning cars on loan from the Speedway, in its sparkling collection hall located a few blocks past the first-turn wall. Also, the estimated 40,000 fans who came to the Sunday race embraced the series, buying hats and shirts without worrying that they didn’t bear the signature of Dale Jr.
The enthusiasm should be a model for the IRL’s tracks in St. Louis, Homestead, Pikes Peak and even Indianapolis. General Motors should learn a thing or two, too. Honda just didn’t front the money to transport the American teams and officials to Japan: It covered grandstands in posters and paraphernalia. And rival Toyota didn’t wave the white flag on Honda’s turf; it distributed red flags that created a sea of support for its drivers. Even Bridgestone, which is in the IRL through its Firestone brand, was an active sponsor, hanging banners on every light pole leading to the oval.
From the fans, the drivers received more presents than they could tow home. Most of the returnees received photo-graphs taken by locals from the previous year. A.J. Foyt was handed a set of pictures of himself driving at Le Mans in 1967 that he claimed he had never seen.
Was all of this the reason Motegi was put on the 2003 schedule? No. Coming here was about prestige in the sport, leverage and the pursuit of the mighty yen.
George and senior vp of racing operations Brian Barnhart said Honda did not demand a Motegi race as a condition to joining the IRL, but George conceded it was “part of the large discussion.” Said Panther Racing co-owner John Barnes, a close friend of George: “I don’t know if it was or it wasn’t, but I know Anton Hulman George doesn’t like sushi.”
The other incentive for the IRL was shutting out CART in a valuable business market. Even without Firestone, almost every team has some connection to the Japanese. Scott Sharp, for example, carries significant sponsorship from Futuba. Foyt’s EPSON money comes from Japanese driver Shigeaki Hattori. Greg Beck’s team wouldn’t have made the trip without the local backing of Shinji Nakano. And lest we understate this: There is the value of 10 cars powered by Toyota and seven sporting Honda badges. Among the latter is Michael Andretti’s three-car team, which explains why the soon-to-be-retired former CART champ received a pre-race salute in the form of leading the parade lap.
Did the IRL, which in 1996 was formed with the intent of being an all-American oval-track series, buckle to the pressure of racing in a place so far away that Foyt, a Texan, couldn’t get a good steak? That could be argued for days, months or even for the next two years of the Motegi contract. But the fact remains: It was a good event, certainly the best of the IRL’s season so far, and will likely fall among the top-three all year.
Despite what Hemelgarn feels, it was a hoot of a first trip. “I could come back every year,” said Kenny Brack, who won the CART race here in 2001. “But once a year is probably enough.”
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Report: NASCAR and Comcast close to a title sponsorship deal
Nationwide Series could be changed to the Xfinity Series
By Autoweek
The NASCAR Nationwide Series could soon be called the Xfinity Series.
According to a report by SportsBusiness Daily, Comcast and NASCAR are planning to announce a 10-year sponsorship agreement as early as next week to change the name of NASCAR’s second-tier series.
“The deal, which is valued at close to $200M, is expected to be announced on Wednesday in Charlotte,” the report said. “The announcement follows several months of negotiations and represents a major achievement for NASCAR.”
NASCAR started looking for a new title sponsor late last year after Nationwide Insurance decided to pull out as the title sponsor in order to put its sponsorship dollars elsewhere in the NASCAR world.
“Comcast emerged as a viable replacement after the company’s sports TV group, NBC, signed a 10-year, $4.4B rights deal with NASCAR,” the SBD report said. “As part of the deal, Comcast agreed to spend $10M marketing and promoting the sport.”
More From NASCAR Xfinity
Nobody Saw More NASCAR Cup Races Than Joe Baumann
NASCAR Xfinity Series champ Tyler Reddick confident heading to next chapter of his career
Myatt Snider joins Richard Childress Racing for NASCAR Xfinity slate
Opinion: NASCAR Xfinity Big Three poised to deliver in Cup after thrilling championship race
Track president confident Homestead-Miami Speedway can survive loss of NASCAR finals
NASCAR Homestead Xfinity race results: Tyler Reddick gets back-to-back titles
Catching up with NASCAR all-time great Ricky Rudd
NASCAR ISM Xfinity race results: Justin Allgaier clinches Championship 4 spot with win
Christopher Bell focused on closing NASCAR Xfinity tenure with a championship
NASCAR Texas Xfinity race results: Christopher Bell makes statement with dominant win
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::Newsletters::
Interviews /
View Interviews
Honeywell Connected Aircraft: Fly Limitless, Fly Connected, Like Never Before
Aviation Technology Exclusive: By Kristin Slyker, Vice President and General Manager, Connected Aircraft, Honeywell Aerospace
The connected aircraft market is growing at an unprecedented rate, driven largely by increasing passenger demand for seamless in-flight connectivity. From the moment a passenger steps onto an aircraft its connectivity is put to the test. According to recent reports from the Market Research Engine, the connected aircraft market is expected to exceed USD6 billion by 2020, growing at a CAGR of 14.9 percent over the next few years, a clear indication of the importance of reliable, consistent in-flight connectivity.
With an aim to meet these increasing demands, the aviation industry’s reliance on technology has never been higher, and operators and airlines are looking to enhance the passenger travel experience.
The technology itself has also evolved. The connected aircraft provides a comprehensive and agile platform of inter-connected products and services that make flying safer, more efficient and cost effective, in addition to offering passengers advanced connectivity so they can send emails, connect to social media, and download and stream videos in-flight.
Technology is changing the way people communicate on-board, and Honeywell is leading that change by reinventing the concept of aviation, enhancing how airlines operate and how passengers fly. Honeywell’s mechanical and software heritage is unmatched, making the company the best choice for bringing a comprehensive connected aircraft platform to life.
Honeywell solutions enable aircraft operators to achieve their full potential – from cockpit to cabin. Using all-inclusive connected aircraft solutions, pilots and crew are able to analyze and take actions based on real-time information, which allows for better flight management. For instance, Honeywell’s GoDirect Weather Information Service allows pilots to receive live alerts on potentially hazardous weather along their flight path – from pre-flight planning, to in-flight travels and landing, and benefit from live graphical weather updates to determine the most efficient flight path, reduce fuel costs for airlines and get passengers to their destination safely and on time.
From the onset of a journey - Honeywell’s GoDirect Flight Preview app provides a useful, practical and intuitive computer tablet tool that lets pilots know what they can expect during one of the most critical phases of flight by eliminating any surprises, giving pilots a highly accurate preview of the runway and surrounding terrain – long before they begin their approach.
Pilots can use Flight Preview before or during their flight to get a clear picture of the conditions they will encounter during approach and landing. Meanwhile, GoDirect Flight Bag Pro, a premier global flight planning and electronic flight bag app, helps pilots get rid of their bulky flight bags by using the app. This allows for them to manage and make strategic decisions as the application pulls in vital flight data, producing a visual and interactive flight planning experience.
Additionally, enhancing in-flight experiences Honeywell’s cockpit communications, voice and safety products which keep pilots connected with data and to air traffic control in locations where typical high-frequency radios will not provide an efficient way to communicate with air traffic control. GoDirect Weather gives pilots real-time weather data along their flight path, enabling them to plan the safest and most efficient routes and adjust routes accordingly.
Honeywell’s GoDirect Fuel Efficiency software helps collect, analyze and share data for operators to help them optimize fuel efficiency across a fleet. Additionally, GoDirect Ground Handling is a mobile and web-based solution for users at the gate and the operations centre provides pilots with the tools to accurately align aircraft components in an all-inclusive system. This results in greater operational efficiency and better integration with other airports and airline systems.
Honeywell’s JetWave satellite connectivity hardware enables aircraft to connect to Inmarsat’s GX Ka-band satellite network service to provide reliable, high-speed broadband that makes these services possible. With these services and Honeywell’s software expertise, we deliver immediate wireless solutions and upgrades to modernize the aviation industry.
For more information about the GoDirect suite of services, please visit GoDirect Cabin Connectivity
Tweets by @aviationtechme
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Axios Sneak Peek
SubscribeArrow
Welcome to Sneak Peek, our weekly lookahead for both ends of Pennsylvania Avenue, plus my best scoops. I'd love your tips and feedback: jonathan@axios.com. And please urge your friends and colleagues to sign up for Sneak Peek.
Situational awareness: שנה טובה to my fellow Members of the Tribe.
1 big thing ... Scoop: Inside Trump's biggest hire
Illustration: Lazaro Gamio/Axios
President Trump was bluffing when he tweeted that he knows the successor to White House counsel Don McGahn, and instead he is vacillating about new legal leaders as he girds for open warfare with Democrats and Robert Mueller. The newest name on the president's mind: Fannie Mae general counsel Brian Brooks, two sources with direct knowledge tell me.
Trump wants somebody who'll be unquestioningly loyal — who'll be "his guy" and defend him on TV, said a source familiar with his thinking. (McGahn fulfills neither criteria: He's independent-minded, TV-shy and makes no effort to disguise his contempt for Jared and Ivanka.)
Why it matters: This is, by far, Trump's most important current staffing decision. The climax of Mueller's probe lies ahead. And the White House faces the possibility of impeachment proceedings — and certainty of endless subpoenas and investigations — if Democrats win the House in November.
Emmet Flood, the White House attorney dealing with Mueller's investigation, looked set to take the job.
But Axios has learned that Trump is now seriously considering Brooks, a low-profile member of Washington's high-powered legal community.
Brooks has been recommended by Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, a friend from working together at OneWest, a California bank. Brooks was considered for deputy at Treasury, but he withdrew from consideration for reasons that are still unclear.
Flood is still very much in contention, along with Washington litigator Pat Cipollone, according to sources involved in the process.
No decision is likely for a few weeks, one of those sources said.
Trump tweeted on Aug. 30: "I am very excited about the person who will be taking the place of Don McGahn as White House Councel [sic]!"
But Trump privately is still going back and forth, and he is even open to new names.
Meanwhile, the White House Counsel's office is down to bare bones. McGahn is leaving soon, almost all of his deputies have departed and the office is nowhere near equipped for the storm that's likely coming.
Another name that has been mentioned inside the White House as a possible McGahn replacement is Matt Whitaker. He's a former U.S. attorney for Iowa and has the disadvantage of being Jeff Sessions' chief of staff, but he's managed to maintain a good standing inside the White House despite Trump's hatred of Sessions.
The president's insistence on a loyalist could pose problems for Flood, who's by far the most qualified to handle a season of investigations:
Flood is independent-minded. According to friends, he agreed to take his current job because he thought the special counsel and "culture of investigations" was out of control. He wanted to protect the presidency as an institution, as he'd done for Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush.
Trump and Flood have spoken about the job more than once, but Trump has never formally asked.
Flood is telling Trump he would need to be able to hire the right people to run day-to-day business so he can continue to focus on Mueller.
Be smart ... A top Washington lawyer summed up the stakes: "If they lose [Flood] they are f--ed. Because they are never going to find a decent white-collar type to fill Emmet's shoes."
2. Stress on Trump's machine
It's hard to overstate the extremity and variety of pressures bearing down on President Trump and his understaffed White House:
Midterm elections that, according to polls, will likely flip the House into Democratic control. Here's a long list of likely investigations awaiting Trump.
Trump's former personal lawyer Michael Cohen and campaign chairman Paul Manafort are going to prison.
Federal prosecutors in the Southern District of New York have granted immunity to Allen Weisselberg, the Trump Organization's chief financial officer and the man who knows more than anyone about Trump's business dealings. We don't yet know exactly what Weisselberg has offered the prosecutors in return for their kindness.
Trump has grown to resent and distrust his White House Counsel, Don McGahn, who has spent hours cooperating with Robert Mueller's team.
McGahn leaves this fall and he leaves behind an office unprepared to deal with the blizzard of subpoenas, investigations and possible impeachment proceedings that likely await it next year. Almost all of McGahn's deputies have already gone.
Bob Woodward's book hits the stands on Tuesday. Trump's advisers have spent the past few days reading a PDF of the book, and the president now knows that some of his previously trusted White House aides play starring roles in Woodward's narrative. Trump is privately furious at Gary Cohn and Rob Porter, and sources with direct knowledge of Trump's thinking tell me it's possible he publicly attacks Porter and Cohn this week.
The New York Times published an op-ed from an anonymous "senior administration official" who claims to be part of a wide-reaching resistance to Trump's presidency from inside his own administration. That op-ed, coupled with the Woodward book, inflamed Trump's paranoia about a "Deep State" working to undermine him.
The White House press and communications teams are very thin, after a handful of staff resigned or were forced out. They are wrestling with a firehose of bad news.
Bottom line: Taken together, it's a jaw-dropping list of problems, and Trump's "fine-tuned machine" is creaking under this stress. We're at a hinge point in the Trump presidency, and staff sound as unsettled as I've heard them in the 19 months since he took office.
3. Trump expected to declassify Carter Page and Bruce Ohr documents
President Trump is expected to declassify, as early as this week, documents covering the U.S. government's surveillance of Trump campaign adviser Carter Page and the investigative activities of senior Justice Department lawyer Bruce Ohr, according to allies of the president.
The big picture: Republicans on the House Intelligence and Judiciary committees believe the declassification will permanently taint the Trump-Russia investigation by showing the investigation was illegitimate to begin with. Trump has been hammering the same theme for months.
They allege that Bruce Ohr played an improper intermediary role between the Justice Department, British spy Christopher Steele and Fusion GPS — the opposition research firm that produced the Trump-Russia dossier, funded by Democrats. (Ohr's wife, Nellie, worked for Fusion GPS on Russia-related matters during the presidential election — a fact that Ohr did not disclose on federal forms.)
And they further allege that the Obama administration improperly spied on Carter Page — all to take down Trump.
House Freedom Caucus chairman Mark Meadows, who is close to Trump, told Axios earlier today: "After two years of investigations and accusations from both sides of the aisle about what documents indicate, it is past time for documents to be declassified and let the American people decide for themselves if DoJ and FBI acted properly."
The bottom line: President Trump has been hyping, and congressional Republicans have been calling for, the declassification of these documents. It's now put up or shut up time. We should find out very soon whether these documents are as explosive as advertised.
4. Scary signs for Republicans
Expand chart
Data: Cook Political Report, Real Clear Politics, Politico, The Washington Post, CNN; Table: Lazaro Gamio/Axios
My colleague Mike Allen, who's covered a few midterm elections in his time, says it's rare to see so much evidence of a trend accumulate so many months out, only for all the signals to be proven wrong.
Yes, the punditocracy is being cautious about 2018 because it has fresh memories of how humiliating it felt to wake up on Nov. 9, 2016, with Donald Trump as president.
But the graphic above tells a stark story and shows the pundit class may be underestimating the odds of a devastating election season for Republicans.
Bottom line: The signals look every bit as bad for Republicans as they did for House Democrats when they got wiped out in the 2010 Tea Party wave.
"Every metric leads you to one conclusion: The likelihood of significant Republican losses in the House and state/local level is increasing by the week," said the Republican operative who did this statistical comparison to 2010.
"The depth of losses could be much greater than anticipated and the Senate majority might be in greater peril than anticipated."
Go deeper: Read the Washington Post's Dan Balz on the under-covered battle for the Senate.
5. Sneak Peek diary
The House will try to pass a package of three spending bills. It's the first package expected to emerge out of conference. (Nine of the year's 12 spending bills are currently in conference, being hashed out between House and Senate negotiators.)
The House also expects to pass a health care bill that eliminates the employer mandate for health insurance coverage. (Spoiler: It'll never pass the Senate.)
The Senate will confirm Charles Rettig, a Beverly Hills tax lawyer friendly with Trump, to head the IRS. Senate leadership has not announced when they'll pass the bipartisan opioids package, but it's expected soon. And the Senate will continue to work on spending bills.
President Trump's schedule, according to a White House official:
Monday: Trump has lunch with Mike Pence.
Tuesday: The President and First Lady participate in the Flight 93 September 11 Memorial Service. Trump also meets with Defense Secretary Jim Mattis.
Wednesday: Trump has lunch with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.
6. 1 fast thing: The downfall of Les Moonves
It took three hours. Three hours after The New Yorker's Ronan Farrow published fresh sexual assault allegations against Les Moonves on Sunday, CNN's Brian Stelter broke the news that CBS' longtime chief executive is out.
These allegations, from 6 additional women, churn the stomach and throw Moonves into a special category reserved for monsters like Harvey Weinstein.
"They include claims that Moonves forced them to perform oral sex on him, that he exposed himself to them without their consent, and that he used physical violence and intimidation against them," Farrow writes. "A number of the women also said that Moonves retaliated after they rebuffed him, damaging their careers."
Why this matters: Moonves is the most powerful and highly paid executive in television. As Stelter writes: "Moonves is the first CEO of a Fortune 500 company to leave his job amid harassment allegations in the year since two investigations of Harvey Weinstein (one of them by Farrow) jump-started the #MeToo Movement."
Moonves appeared to be trying to gracefully ride through the first wave of sexual harassment allegations after Farrow first reported, about a month ago, that six women were accusing the CEO of harassment and intimidation.
Exit talks had been in the works, but today's report from Farrow sped up the inevitable.
Now Moonves is gone, leaving behind a network in turmoil.
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Search on barcelona.cat
Reactivating the economy
Let's get our city back
We are re-launching international economic promotions
#MAIENSATUREM
Barcelona, the new global city, is now taking on the challenge of the post-COVID-19 economy recovery, opting for a model of a city committed to its people, working for a sustainable and world-connected economic recovery to make it possible.
Connected to the international players: enterprise, investment and talent
We are reactivating Barcelona's international economic promotion with a future vision, to launch the model of a safe, sustainable, connected, innovative and diverse city that defines us.
Latest news on international economic promotion in Barcelona
Barcelona Expat Week closes with 2,600 attendees from 130 countries
Barcelona & Partners, the new initiative to attract investment in the city
Barcelona Global and the City Council sign an agreement to boost investment and employment
Barcelona City Council, FCB and the Generalitat will undertake a joint international promotion campaign
“Barcelona isn't going to lose its DNA because of this crisis”
Barcelona consolidates its status as host of the Mobile World Congress
All tourism companies that have signed the Biosphere Commitment will receive training and advice on post-Covid health-related prevention
Barcelona discusses the key role of the brand and reputation of cities in the post-Covid-19 context
BCN Safe City. BCN Safe Visit
Barcelona has built up a public-private alliance of city players to prepare joint protocols which give priority to health and mobility of people in the city's public spaces and facilities.
Barcelona is a committed city, with benchmark clinics and hospitals networking with international bodies to develop a vaccine against COVID-19.
Barcelona is a connected city, which promotes digital progress and international connections.
Thanks to its benchmark events, initiatives and platforms boosting its international position, Barcelona is the 5G hub of southern Europe and the world’s No. 3 smart city.
Barcelona, a generator of new opportunities such as blended city, where the real city is juxtaposed to the virtual, as Professor Greg Clark puts it.
Barcelona is an innovation laboratory, with a huge capacity for adapting to new challenges.
Projects such as superblocks have revolutionised public spaces, reclaiming the streets for pedestrians, and the Decidim Barcelona project has located city residents at the centre of the decisions that affect the city.
This environment has helped Barcelona to become a benchmark environment in research, innovation in the life sciences and mobile technology, and boasts a rich ecosystem of cutting-edge institutions in these areas.
A specialist in diversity
Barcelona is recognised for its diversity and stands out for its potential in areas as diverse as bioscience, design and the creative industries, tourism and large international-event organising.
Barcelona International Welcome
Welcome portal to assist the international community, with information and procedures to make life easier for professionals from all over the world who want to come to live and work in Barcelona.
Joint project from Incasòl-Generalitat de Catalunya, Barcelona Metropolitan Area and Barcelona City Council to promote the region and attract international economic activity, with projects located in the metropolitan area aimed at building a new, fairer, more efficient and more sustainable urban model.
BARDC
The Barcelona Air Route Development Committee (BARDC) is a platform promoted by the Government of Catalonia, AENA, Barcelona Chamber of Commerce and Barcelona City Council, with a view to establishing new intercontinental air links from Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport, as well as maintaining the existing connections.
BARCELONA BRAND BOOK
The new story of Barcelona, written as a result of a participative process involving local and international agents to promote the Barcelona brand internationally.
A useful, practical and inspiring tool to direct and synchronise all the messages and initiatives put forward by public and private stakeholders that influence the reputation of the Barcelona brand.
Barcelona Digital Talent
Barcelona Digital Talent aims to make the market more competitive by addressing the current digital talent gap. With a view to promoting Barcelona as a talent capital, the programme encourages the digital reskilling of professionals and focuses on attracting new local and international professionals to the market.
SciTech DiploHub
The Barcelona Science and Technology Diplomacy Hub is a pioneering , non-profit, public-private association supported by the most prestigious research centres, universities, charities, start-ups, corporations and public institutions that positions Barcelona as a global scientific diplomacy laboratory for cities all over the world.
Barceloc (Barcelona European Logistics Center)
Barceloc is a joint platform from ACCIÓ-Generalitat de Catalunya, the Port of Barcelona and Barcelona City Council that promotes the city as an international logistics hub and the Port as a key infrastructure in the exchange of goods between international markets and the European Union.
Barcelona in the eyes of the world
Study on the evolution of the international perception of Barcelona.
Neighbourhood commerce makes the city
Restaurants are now back on the menu
Social and solidarity economy, now more than ever!
We are what we eat: choose local food!
Rediscovering our city
Culturally active
Go to start
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West Berkeley neighbors ask for answers after homicide
By Emilie Raguso Feb. 20, 2013, 9 a.m. Oct. 10, 4:46 p.m.
Councilwoman Linda Maio (left) organized a community meeting in her district over the weekend following the homicide earlier this month of Zontee Jones. She appears here with Detective Sgt. David White and Lt. Dave Frankel of the Berkeley Police Department, and Rev. Este Gardner Cantor, vicar of The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd. Photo: Emilie Raguso
About 25 neighbors came together at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church over the weekend to share concerns and ideas about safety in west Berkeley following the shooting death earlier this month of Zontee Jones.
Councilwoman Linda Maio organized the meeting with members of the Berkeley Police Department to make sure residents in her district could connect with authorities and share their worries and suggestions.
Berkeley Police Lt. Dave Frankel told those in attendance, who sat in a circle in a community room belonging to Good Shepherd, that Jones’ death, which represented the city’s first homicide of the year, was not random.
“Somebody had something against somebody else, and they dealt with their issue directly,” he said.
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One attendee asked police to confirm that Jones lived in the neighborhood, and Frankel said only that he knew the victim “from a different part of town a couple years back.” He added that he couldn’t comment on leads related to the case due to the ongoing investigation.
Residents asked police about recent home burglaries, a pepper-spray attack of a woman walking to BART and how to come up with neighborhood solutions to violence.
Frankel said the best approach for community members is to reach out to police quickly, with as much information as possible, if they spot anything suspicious. (For those with “quality of life” concerns and chronic problems in Area 4, he said the best contact is beat officer Rashan Cummings at 510-981-5774. For time sensitive issues, or reporting crimes in progress, residents can call 911 for emergencies and 510-981-5900 for non-emergencies.)
“When the switchboard lights up like a Christmas tree, we know something is going down,” he said. “I want you to call about all suspicious activity. That’s what I really need you to do: Pick up the phone.”
Frankel said the most common type of crime in Area 4 — which covers much of Sacramento Street west to the waterfront, and from the city’s southern border up to Albany — is auto burglaries. He urged residents to watch out for people peering into cars and trying door handles, and to let police know if they notice this behavior. He also asked people to take the time to report auto burglaries or when a vehicle is rifled through; it helps police with data collection and asset allocation, he said. (Certain types of reports can be made online.)
Councilwoman Maio remarked that community members who are home during the day bear a “special responsibility to be the eyes on the street” to watch for anything suspicious, such as people casing homes or knocking on doors.
In response to a question about possible ways to improve safety and communication, some participants suggested organizing a Neighborhood Watch program and setting up a community email list, as well as throwing block parties or driveway parties to build neighborhood cohesion.
One longtime resident spoke of the importance of getting to know neighbors and keeping an eye on the block.
“In the old days, we took care of a lot of things ourselves,” he said. “A lot of new families are moving in, and they don’t know each other. I try to introduce myself to them.”
He also said he’d seen an improvement in neighborhood safety, and Lt. Frankel concurred. Frankel, who’s been with the Berkeley Police Department for 21 years, said there have been dramatic reductions in violent crime and open-air drug dealing.
On the flip side, people have much more access to information and data, which can lead to a false perception of increased violence, said Frankel.
“Everyone I know feels less safe than five years ago,” noted one woman. “Is it getting worse?”
Frankel acknowledged that “your perception is your reality” but reassured her that numbers are flat or down in Berkeley for most serious crimes.
One resident, Curt Gray, said there seemed to be a common phenomenon of long-time residents noting improvements in safety, but newer neighbors saying they feel unsafe, perhaps compared with where they’ve moved into the neighborhood from.
David Rodriguez said he grew up in west Berkeley, and remembers riding his bike around a local park in the 90s, and seeing dead dogs from dog fights, discarded cocaine bags and needles from drug use.
“This area has improved dramatically,” he told the group. “Now you see people biking, people jogging. It’s a big improvement. I’m happy about what’s going on.”
One resident asked if police could have greater visibility in the neighborhood following this month’s homicide. Frankel said it isn’t likely, unless there’s a longer trend of incidents to show a pattern of criminal activity.
“You’re not going to see a difference in the way the Police Department handles crime in your area,” he said. “One random event is not going to change policing in Berkeley.”
Berkeley police make arrests related to two Berkeley homicides [02.14.13]
Police name Zontee Jones as year’s first Berkeley homicide [02.06.13]
Man shot dead in Berkeley, first homicide of 2013 [02.04.13]
City of Berkeley offers reward to find ‘Cowboy’ killer [12.20.12]
If your neighborhood is having a community meeting that you think may be newsworthy, please let Berkeleyside know via email at tips@berkeleyside.com. Learn about crime in your neighborhood via CrimeView Community and CrimeMapping.com.
Berkeleyside publishes many articles every day. To see all our stories in chronological order, and read ones you may have missed, check out our All the News grid.
Emilie Raguso is Berkeleyside’s senior editor of news. Email: emilie@berkeleyside.com. Twitter: emraguso. Phone: 510-459-8325.
Berkeley PoliceDave FrankelGood Shepherd Episcopal ChurchGunsLinda MaioPolicingShootingsWest BerkeleyZontee Jones
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Blog ▸ Page 2
December (7) | November (5) | October (3) | September (2)
See blog posts from our team, partners, founders and network, on topics affecting the philanthropy sector.
Launch of The Black Funding Networking
Guest Blog from Pauline De Souza on the launch of the Black Funding Network which supports social enterprises dealing with social mobility, racial equity, arts and cultural advancement, education and youth services.
Overcoming personal barriers to giving
There have been a number of reports looking at the barriers to giving among wealthy people in the UK in recent months. They provide a great deal of insight into what the wider philanthropy sector could do better to support individual donors, but what can an individual philanthropist learn from them to make their own good first step into giving?
Prism the Gift Fund’s new research sheds light on social attitudes to philanthropy
Prism has commissioned a survey to explore social attitudes in the UK to philanthropic giving in the UK: The Philanthropy Paradox: Public Attitudes and Future Prospects for Planned Giving.
What is the threshold for generosity in the UK today?
When you start on your giving journey, one of the hardest questions to answer is: “how much is generous?”Giving is so personal, and traditionally so private, that there are not really any benchmarks for generosity. Talk to friends and neighbours and you may discover you are doing more than most.
What my book really says – Paul Vallely
Modern social media is a double-edged sword. It alerts us quickly to the presence of something new. But its very speed also creates a tendency towards knee-jerk responses rooted in our preconceptions and prejudices. Often it cuts out the need to actually consider the evidence. So it was with some concern that I heard that social media responses to my new book Philanthropy – from Aristotle to Zuckerberg had been the subject of unhappy comment among some philanthropists and philanthropy advisers after Twitter comments provoked by an extract from my book in The Guardian.
It’s time to talk differently – and more carefully – about philanthropy
A new book on philanthropy is always cause for celebration. The serious study of philanthropy is still in its infancy in the UK and we need much fuller bookshelves to spark informed conversations about the role, purpose and consequences of private giving in contemporary society.
“Philanthropy from Aristotle to Zuckerberg” – A Contemporary UK Perspective
Paul Vallely’s new book “Philanthropy from Aristotle to Zuckerberg” is breathtaking in its ambition and scope. It is undoubtedly an important book not only on the history of philanthropy, but also as an analysis of its role in society.
We welcome blogs from anyone interested in philanthropy. Please email us at communications@beaconcollaborative.org.uk if you would like to contribute.
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EMPIRE OF SHAME
HONG Li-gyeong
Republic of South Korea, 2013, 92′
Photography: HONG Li-gyeong, RYU Seung-jin, MUN Jeong-hyun, LEE Dong-ryeol
Producer: MUN Jeong-hyun
Armagrandi Hotel, Friday 20:00- 22:00
Synopsis: A documentary about the continuing case of Samsung semiconductor plant. “It was like I was in a different world. Men and women all wore same clothes and it looked like a small country. There were a factory, a dormitory, even a hospital. Just being there was sort of making me feel good. I can recall the first time I was in manufacturing line. Real robots working there.” The film is a story about nameless people wearing white coats, hats and masks who worked in a clean room exposing eyes only.
Director: Li-gyeong Hong majored in documentary studies at ESEC, a movie school in France. Later, she joined ‘PURN Production’ in Korea. There, she made her first feature film, “The Empire of Shame”, which follows the stories of Samsung semiconductor workers who have suffered work-related diseases.
LAST CALL THE CURE
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Who was August's top defensive player?
By John Dewan
In a crowded group of highly-talented center fielders, it has been tough for Adam Engel to stand out from the rest. But in August he did. He’s our selection as the MLB Defensive Player of the Month.
Engel finished the month with eight Defensive Runs Saved, the most by any outfielder. Half of that total was accumulated from three amazing home run robberies in a seven-day span. Engel snagged one from Greg Bird on Aug. 6, Kyle Higashioka the next day and Yonder Alonso on Aug. 12. He’s the first player in the 15 seasons for which we’ve tracked home run robberies to have three in a week’s span. His three home run robberies are the most of anyone in the majors this season.
Engel has saved six runs this season after costing his team a run in center field in his rookie season, 2017. One change to his defensive game is that he’s playing deeper this year. Engel was usually the shallowest playing outfielder or close to it in the various AL ballparks last season, but he’s moved back eight to 12 feet in most parks. That may have given him a better chance at those would-be home runs.
Engel is not typically a leaper – he has only four jumping catches all season (by contrast, Billy Hamilton has 16), but he is a sprinter. His 57 sprinting catches trail only Ender Inciarte’s 72 for most in MLB by a center fielder.
Engel has also made improvements in his arm rating. Last season, he allowed 54 percent of runners to advance an extra-base on hits, and recorded only one unaided outfield assist (without a cutoff man). The advance rate against him is similar this season, but he has three unaided assists.
The runner-up for the August award was Rays center fielder Kevin Kiermaier, a defensive standard-setter, whose 89 DRS are the most in the majors from 2015 to 2017. For Engel to beat Kiermaier out, you know he really earned the award.
COMMENTS (2 Comments, most recent shown first)
pgaskill
I remember another outfielder, from a few years ago, who became famous for stealing home runs. His name is Dave Winfield. He started playing deeper than he was "supposed" to, just to make it easier for him to steal homers.
Nothing wrong with that—UNLESS he was giving up more singles and perhaps other hits, and having longer throws to the bases, by playing deep than he normally would have.
And that's what most people thought was the overall contribution of what was thought of as his grandstanding playing style.
Any thoughts about that?
4:57 PM Sep 5th
nettles9
So Engel was minus-two runs saved before August? Those robberies helped him get on the plus-side?
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Adobe launches free scanning app with OCR
By Stephen Withers on Jun 2, 2017 7:11AM
Adobe Scan is a mobile app that can digitise business cards, letters, receipts and more.
Apps for using your phone or tablet as a scanner are commonplace. What makes the new Adobe Scan app unusual is that it does optical character recognition (OCR) at no charge, allowing you to digitise business cards, letters, receipts and more.
Adobe Scan lets you take a photo – or select an existing photo – which it processes and saves as a PDF file. But a lot of digital smarts are employed behind the scenes.
The app uses Adobe's Sensei technology to automatically crop, square up, and enhance the relevant portion of the image, including sharpening any text. That image could be a photo of a receipt, business card or letter, but it also works with shots taken of whiteboards, video screens or even three-dimensional items such as a designer's mood board.
In case the automatic processing isn't quite what you expected, Scan allows additional manual adjustments.
Once the image is finalised, an automatic OCR process converts any text into a machine-readable form which is included in the resulting PDF, making it possible to copy and paste text from the document into another application.
The finished PDF is uploaded to Adobe Document Cloud, where it can be accessed with free or paid accounts – so yes, Scan can be completely free to use. The files can also be stored locally if desired.
The free Adobe Scan app is available for iOS or Android.
adobe free software mobile app ocr software
By Stephen Withers
5 trends: What “going into the office” will look like in the near future
Microsoft says new Teams devices are incoming
What will 2021 deliver for cybersecurity in Australia?
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When Hops and Yeast Go on Tour
When Bitburger Seal Hops and Bitburger Natural Yeast (“Diva”) Go on Tour…
…an unmistakable beer is born. But before the finished Collaboration Brew in early 2019 can be created, many further challenges await those involved. As Bitburger seal hops and Bitburger natural yeast are to be used in the brew, these must first be brought to the brewery. A road trip full of adventure, exciting incidents and an emotional reunion. But let’s start at the beginning…
It all Started with an Idea – and a Load of Paperwork
As with so many large-scale projects, cooperation between the two traditional breweries, Bitburger and Sierra Nevada, began with a lively exchange: Where was the joint beer to be brewed? What sort of beer should it be? And what should it look like overall? Soon one thing became clear: It was to be a collaborative festbier with very special character. This suited the ideas of both brewery owners, Jan Niewodniczanski and Ken Grossman, because both wanted a combination of German and American brewing ingredients – the best of both worlds. So it happened that Stefan Meyna, Stefan Hanke, Scott Jennings and Matt Ruzich developed a recipe containing the raw ingredients of both breweries. To be precise: Alongside Bitburger seal hops, the Collaboration Brew would also use Bitburger natural yeast. An absolute novelty, as the Bitburger natural yeast had so far never left the protective walls of the Bitburger brewery.
On the Way to Our American Friends
To get the first brew started at the Sierra Nevada pilot brewery in Mills River, the Bitburger seal hops and Bitburger natural yeast first had to make the journey from Germany’s Eifel mountains to the USA. It was not an easy decision to start with – and not a simple operation, either. After all, hops is a plant in the hemp family, while yeast, of course, consists of living microorganisms – facts that can make any customs official sit up and pay attention. This meant transport was not easy, as first the necessary documentation for the brewing ingredients shipment had to be produced. Finally, when all the certificates had been obtained, the precious package made its way to our brewing partners. It was carefully packed and protected and sent by air mail to North Carolina. Even if a sack of green hops and small tubes of yeast could have looked very suspicious to a custom official, the good preparation paid off and everything passed the border without an issue.
Learning to Handle Bitburger Natural Yeast Takes Time
While the Bitburger seal hops were sturdy and resilient, Bitburger natural yeast turned out to be very challenging to deal with when brewing in the USA. The yeast from Bitburg is very demanding and sensitive to handle – which is why the Bitburg brewers lovingly call it “Diva”. So that it didn’t settle too quickly in fermentation or remain in suspension, the American brewers had to take note of certain facts about its propagation. For this reason, they received detailed instructions from Germany, with which they were able to produce an entire fermenter full of yeast. Of course, the occasional call came in from the land of unlimited possibilities, and doubts were quickly put to bed. Because in Mills River too, they place great value on quality and on having well-trained employees who match the star power of the Bitburger yeast.
The Long Wait Pays off – the First Beer Is Brewed
After weeks of preparation, numerous adjustments and many bureaucratic hurdles, the day everyone had been working towards finally came: The first batch of the new festbier was brewed in the Sierra Nevada test brewery. Of course, there was no way the Bitburger master brewer Stefan Meyna was going to miss it. He flew in to the idyllic Mills River, North Carolina, and was received there by an old friend: Stefan Meyna and Scott Jennings, the Sierra Nevada master brewer, knew each other when they were students, and now met again for the first time in 18 years. No surprise that the two old friends went directly from the airport to a popular pub to try the local beer. But as happy as their reunion was, their shared project took center stage. Already the next day they both went to the brewery in Mills River. One of Stefan’s most frequent sentences there was: “Oh yes, that is just the way we do it.” Because both family breweries combine a passion for the best raw materials with high quality thresholds for their beer. Thus, malts and hops for the festbier were inspected in fine detail over the next few days, and finally, the first batch of the exclusive Collaboration Brew began. The greatest challenge at this time was certainly converting measures, as the USA uses the imperial system of pounds, barrels etc., while Germany uses the metric system. Thus, the first official act of both brewers was to download an app that converted between the two systems. Thank you, technology!
The Unmistakable Result – a Festbier of Character
The flavor of our collaborative beer speaks for itself – the combination of German and American brewing ingredients has created a festival beer of exceptional character. Chocolatey and caramel-like flavors meet those of a classic Pilsner malt, while fruity notes from the US hops combine with the famous tangy bitterness of Bitburger seal hops. But even if this Collaboration Brew is only going to be available in the USA, there is cause for excitement in Germany – because the Sierra Nevada brewers and very interested to find out about brewing in Bitburg. The best is yet to come…
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Atlanta Braves' Freddie Freeman keeps in shape for season by homering off son
Andrew Joseph For The Win
At this point, it’s unclear when we’ll get to see the next MLB game. The league — and every other American sports league — delayed its season amid the coronavirus pandemic.
With the move coming toward the final stretch of spring training, MLB players are left to get ready for a season with an uncertain starting date.
But at least Atlanta Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman is doing his part to stay fresh for the season
He has his son to help.
Freeman’s wife, Chelsea, posted a video of Freddie and their 3-year-old son, Charlie, playing some backyard baseball on Sunday. Let’s just say that Freddie didn’t go easy on his son.
Backyard baseball ⚾️pic.twitter.com/JZstzUR60v
— Chelsea Freeman (@chelseafree5)March 22, 2020
Charlie left an off-speed pitch up high for Freddie, and the four-time All-Star absolutely crushed the ball into the woods.
Just look at Charlie’s reaction — it was too good.
And sure, this wasn’t exactly 98 mph heat from Charlie, but it’ll have to work in these trying times.
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Dexter USBC All-American Team
Next Step: College
Dexter All-American Team
USBC Youth
DEXTER HIGH SCHOOL ALL-AMERICAN TEAM
Five male and five female High School members are selected annually for the Dexter High School All-American Team. Each student-athlete selected to the team receives a $1,000 scholarship. Additionally one of the ten athletes selected will receive the Bud Clapsaddle Award, being named the Team Captain. The recipient of the Bud Clapsaddle Team Captain Award will receive an additional $500.
Any USBC Member that participates on a recognized interscholastic high school team (varsity or club classification) is eligible to apply.
As a high school bowler, your selection to the Dexter High School All-American Team is based on your bowling accomplishments, academic achievement, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular/community involvement.
Requirements for selection include:
3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent)
A recommendation letter from a coach or athletic director
At least one additional letter of recommendation.
A resume outlining bowling accomplishments, academic achievement and extracurricular/community involvement
An essay containing at least 500 words, answering a provided question
At least one photo (preferably a yearbook-style photo)
All-American Team awards are presented at the Junior Gold Championships Opening Ceremony
Applications are open - Apply Now
ALL-TIME TEAMS
2019-2020 DEXTER HIGH SCHOOL ALL-AMERICAN TEAM
Name, Year, High School, Hometown
Morgan Gitlitz, Senior, Colts Neck High School, Freehold, N.J.
Victoria Lazo, Junior, Dobie High School, Houston
Evan Smith, Senior, West Seattle High School, Seattle
Ashlyn Okazaki, Senior, ‘Iolani School, Mililani, Hawaii
Kristin Womeldorf, Senior, Apollo-Ridge High School, Apollo, Pa.
Boys Team
Tanner Ausec, Senior, Rampart High School, Colorado Springs, Colo.
Justin Bohn, Junior, Jackson Liberty High School, Jackson, N.J.
Alexander Kobus, Senior, Boone Grove High School, Crown Point, Ind.
Blake Martin, Junior, St. Croix Lutheran Academy, Oakdale, Minn.
Takuma Walter, Senior, White Station High School, Memphis, Tenn.
Kalei Bass, Senior, Lincoln-Way Central High School, New Lenox, Ill.
Katie Fraser, Junior, Elkhart Central High School, Elkhart, Ind.
Linda Himes, Senior, Arkansas Senior High School, Texarkana, Ark.
Alyssa Johnson, Senior, Clarence High School, Lancaster, N.Y.
Cassie White, Senior, Quincy High School, Quincy, Mich.
Tanner Ausec, Junior, Rampart High School, Colorado Springs, Colo.
Alexander Kobus, Junior, Boone Grove High School, Crown Point, Ind.
Peyton Montgomery, Junior, Eisenhower High School, Wichita, Kan.
Matthew Ruff, Senior, Milan High School, Milan, Mich.
Kai Sakamoto, Senior, Mid-Pacific Institute, Honolulu, Hawaii
Addison Herzberg, Senior, Wichita East High School, Wichita, Kan.
Danika Hickey, Senior, Bryan High School, Stryker, Ohio
Lindsay Manning, Senior, Lebanon High School, Lebanon, Tenn.
Brooke Roberts, Junior, Atlantic High School, Port Orange, Fla.
Chloe Sharp, Senior, Clear Falls High School, League City, Texas
Brandon Bonta, Freshman, Wichita Northwest High School, Wichita, Kan.
John Drost, Senior, Woodbridge High School, Woodbridge, N.J.
Trace Nuss, Junior, Jesuit High School, Tampa, Fla.
Donald Richards, Junior, O’Fallon Township High School, O’Fallon, Ill.
Ian Ridgway, Senior, Metea Valley High School, Naperville, Ill.
2016-2017 DEXTER HIGH SCHOOL ALL-AMERICA TEAM
Ashley Channell, Senior, Hardin County High School, Morris Chapel, Tenn.
Brittney Kinney, Senior, Columbia City High School, Columbia City, Ind.
Alexandra Ross, Senior, Greenwood Christian Academy, Greenwood, Ind.
Aimee Sherman, Senior, Jackson Memorial High School, Jackson, N.J.
Crystal Singh, Junior, Coral Springs Charter, Coral Springs, Fla.
Kyle Bilawsky, Senior, Woodbridge High School, Fords, N.J.
Jonathan Lovett, Senior, Cardinal Newman High School, Columbia, S.C.
Carson Opela, Senior, The ASK Academy, Rio Rancho, N.M.
Matthew Stephens, Senior, Egg Harbor Township High School, Egg Harbor Township, N.J.
Eric Ullian, Senior, Lincoln-Way West High School, New Lenox, Ill.
Ashley Channell, Junior, Hardin County High School, Morris Chapel, Tennessee
Natalie Koprowitz, Junior, North Mac High School, Girard, Illinois
Kristen Machacek, Senior, Pius X High School, Lincoln, Nebraska
Britaney Myers, Junior, Stillwater Central High School, Mechanicville, New York
Shelby Vincke, Senior, New Lothrop High School, Chesaning, Michigan
Jack Cook, Senior, Morris Knolls High School, Denville, New Jersey
Jerod Hromek, Senior, Circle High School, Towanda, Kansas
Jacob Kersten, Senior, Clarkston High School, Clarkston, Michigan
Max Oertling, Senior, Brother Martin High School, Slidell, Louisiana
John Nicholas Sommer, Sophomore, Hononegah Community High School, Roscoe, Illinois
Samantha Gainor, Junior, L’Anse Creuse High School-North, Chesterfield Township, Mich.
Keri Molloy, Senior, Sandusky High School, Sandusky, Mich.
Jordan Newham, Senior, Metea Valley High School, Aurora, Ill.s
Casey Smith, Senior, Chittenango High School, Chittenango, N.Y.
Amanda Wengryn, Senior, South Hunterdon Regional High School, Ringoes, N.J.
Jonathan Bowman, Senior, Peru Central High School, Peru, N.Y.
Jerod Hromek, Junior, Circle High School, Towanda, Kan.
Joe Kleven, Senior, Benilde-St. Margaret’s School, Edina, Minn.
Bradley Solomon, Junior, O’Fallon Township High School, O’Fallon, Ill.
Gregory Tack, Senior, Immaculata High School, Port Murray, N.J.
Haley Carroll, Junior, Williamsville South High School, Williamsville, N.Y.
Kendall De Jong, Senior, Grassfield High School, Chesapeake, Va.
Sierra Kanemoto, Senior, Walter E. Stebbins High School, Dayton, Ohio
Jessica Mellott, Senior, Coral Springs Charter School, Lauderhill, Fla.
Krystina Nealon, Junior, Coral Glades High School, Coral Springs, Fla.
Michael Dertz, Senior, Victor J. Andrew High School, Tinley Park, Ill.
Derick Holmes, Senior, Wichita Southeast High School, Wichita, Kan.
Joey Miller, Senior, Harlem High School, Loves Park, Ill.
Paul Brendan Schink, Junior, Wilson Christian Academy, Dravosburg, Pa.
Alex Sommer, Senior, Guilford High School, Rockford, Ill.
Shelly Goodwin, Junior, Martin County High School, Palm City, Fla.
Sierra Kanemoto, Junior, Walter E. Stebbins High School, Dayton, Ohio
Lauren Krywy, Senior, Adlai E. Stevenson High School, Sterling Heights, Mich.
Giselle Poss, Senior, Oswego East High School, Montgomery, Ill.
Brooke Wood, Senior, Davison High School, Davison, Mich.
Derick Holmes, Junior, Wichita Southeast High School, Wichita, Kan.
Matthew Kinn, Junior, Frontier Central High School, Hamburg, N.Y.
Joshua Krueger, Junior, Green Bay West High School, Green Bay, Wis.
Jordan Nash, Senior, Adams Central High School, Hastings, Neb.
Eric Swanson, Senior, Vernon Hills High School, Vernon Hills, Ill.
McKensie Haines, Senior, Shikellamy High School, Sunbury, Pa.
Lillie Miller, Senior, Sandusky High School, Sandusky, Mich.
Sarah Ross, Senior, Moon Area High School, Crescent, Pa.
Rachel Vaughn, Senior, St. Lucie West Centennial High School, Port St. Lucie, Fla.
Amanda Wess, Senior, Hubbard High School, Hubbard, Ohio
Matthew Farber, Senior, John F. Kennedy High School, Plainview, N.Y.
Zachary Fylling, Senior, Bangor John Glenn High School, Bay City, Mich.
Kyle Mayberry, Senior, Mechanicsburg High School, Mechanicsburg, Ohio
Dominick Savage, Senior, Thurgood Marshall High School, Missouri City, Texas
Jefferson Vlasnik, Senior, Millard South High School, Omaha, Neb.
Sydney Brummett, Freshman, Homestead High School, Fort Wayne, Ind.
Melanie Hannon, Sophomore, Maryvale High School, Cheektowaga, N.Y.
Charlena Melnyk, Junior, The Woodlands High School, The Woodlands, Texas
Nicole Mosesso, Senior, Centerville High School, Centerville, Ohio
Kay Rawls, Senior, Central High School, Greenwell Springs, La.
Kyle Anderson, Senior, Lockport High School, Lockport, Ill.
Zachary Fylling, Junior, Bangor John Glenn High School, Bay City, Mich.
Ryan Miller, Senior, Harlem Senior High School, Loves Park, Ill.
Eric Swanson, Sophomore, Vernon Hills High School, Vernon Hills, Ill.
Logan Wirth, Junior, Kearney High School, Kearney, Neb.
Morgan Brown, Senior, East Brunswick High School, East Brunswick, N.J.
Megan Buja, Senior, Thomas Jefferson High School, Rockford, Ill.
Ana Koff, Junior, Gulliver Prep High School, Miami, Fla.
Nicole Parkhurst, Senior, Thomas R. Proctor High School, Utica, N.Y.
Rachel Sather, Senior, Cypress Creek High School, Orlando, Fla.
Kevin Donovan, Senior, Corning-Painted Post West High School, Painted Post, N.Y.
Rivers Jones, Senior, Redemptorist High School, Clinton, La.
Andrew Koff, Senior, Gulliver Prep High School, Miami
William Paul, Senior, Wichita High School South, Wichita, Kan.
Christian Weber, Senior, St. Xavier High School, Cincinnati, Ohio
Darla Ahlert, Senior, Collinsville High School, Collinsville, Ill.
Megan Buja, Junior, Thomas Jefferson High School, Rockford, Ill.
Jacqueline Carbonetto, Senior, Tappan Zee High School, Blauvelt, N.Y.
Kimberly Carper, Senior, Brainerd High School, Fort Ripley, Minn.
Nicole Parkhurst, Junior, Proctor High School, Utica, N.Y.
Mark Allen. Senior, William Mason High School, Mason, Ohio
Andrew Koff, Junior, Gulliver Prep High School, Miami
Matt Krueger, Senior, Green Bay West High School, Green Bay, Wis.
Nicholas Morrissey, West Seneca East Senior High School, West Seneca, N.Y.
John Shelpman, O’Fallon Township High School, O’Fallon, Ill.
Amanda Cortese, Senior, Hoffman Estates High School, Hoffman Estates, Ill.
Natalie Cortese, Senior, Hoffman Estates High School, Hoffman Estates, Ill.
Brittni Hamilton, Senior, Webster Thomas High School, Webster, N.Y.
Nicole Oehler, Senior, McAuley High School, Cincinnati
Samantha Santoro, Senior, Cocalico High School, Reinholds, Pa.
Andrew Koff, Sophomore, Gulliver Prep High School, Miami
Matt Krueger, Junior, Green Bay West High School, Green Bay, Wis.
Christopher Lane, Senior, Centennial High School, Franklin, Tenn.
Greg Pizl II, Junior, Antigo High School, Antigo, Wis.
Brian Small Jr., Senior, Woodbridge High School, Port Reading, N.J.
Heather D'Errico, Senior, Greece Arcadia High School, Rochester, N.Y.
Brittni Hamilton, Junior, Webster Thomas High School, Webster, N.Y.
Ellen Morrison, Senior, Winnebago High School, Winnebago, Ill.
Michelle Ostrowski, Senior, Oak Hills High School, Cincinnati
Kristin Wiedman, Senior, Harrison High School, West Lafayette, Ind.
Jonathan Buckert, Senior, Greece Athena High School, Rochester, N.Y.
Hunter Hobgood, Senior, Kettering Fairmont High School, Kettering, Ohio
Jeremy Janese, Senior, Lewiston-Porter High School, Youngstown, N.Y.
Chris Ray, Senior, Granite City High School, Granite City, Ill.
Brandon Taylor, Sophomore, Merrillville High School, Merrillville, Ind.
Ashley Halter, Senior, Pendleton Heights High School, Pendelton, Ind.
Amanda Hammel, Senior, Olmsted Falls High School, Olmsted Falls, Ohio
Ellen Morrison, Junior, Winnebago High School, Winnebago, Ill.
Erica Perez, Senior, Carteret High School, Carteret, N.J.
Georgia Wiggins, Senior, Bishop Carroll Catholic High School, Wichita, Kan.
Michael Graham, Senior, East Hampton High School, East Hampton, N.Y.
Thomas Madrecki, Senior, Loyola Academy, Northbrook, Ill.
Gregory Pizl II, Freshman, Antigo High School, Antigo, Wis.
Michael Snell, Senior, Plattsmouth High School, Plattsmouth, Neb.
John Szczerbinski, Senior, North Tonawanda High School, North Tonawanda, N.Y.
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Summer Smash Results: Choi Tseveenpurev Beats Jackson Asiku In Small Hall Thriller
By Ezio Prapotnich
You might find this surprising but, sometime, when there are notitles, media and related politics involved, people fight for real. It is a shame that true classics like the 10 rounds battle between London adopted Mongolian warrior Choi Tseveenpurev (31-5, 21 ko’s) and former IBO champion Jackson Asiku (26-5, 14 ko’s) go under the radar when we often end up paying 15 or more pounds to buy world level stinkers. Spencer Fearon and Ciaran Baynes’ Hard Knocks Boxing took over York Hall once again with their Summer Smash card to offer a night full of upsets and surprises, although, unfortunately, some were not pleasant.
It’s just physics. It’s just the way nature works. If you mix nitro with glycerin, you invariably obtain an explosion. If you replace nitro with Choi and glycerin with Asiku, you obtain the same result, only sustained for 10 three minutes rounds over which neither man takes a backward step or tries to hold the other. How refreshing! It was a very balanced match between two fighters with power, a high work rate and iron chins. What enabled Choi to end up strong in almost every round was the fact that Asiku would leave himself open for a split second after each time he threw a power shot, especially the left hook to the head, allowing him to land bombs all over him. Jackson took the initiative in the first round, active from the outside with jabs and straight punches, while Choi was fighting is spurts swinging his trademark long head hooks. Neither man seemed to find openings but Asiku might have nicked the round on work rate, although this pattern would not repeat.
Things started to heat up in the second after a big loopin left hook from the former IBO champion left him open allowing Tseveenpurev to score with the right hook and get inside to work the body, but he was able to come back with straight punches and it was still anybody’s fight at this stage. In the third, the two stood toe to toe landing clean punches on each other. Choi’s best shot was always the right hook while Jackson’s most succesful weapon was the right cross. At this point, the Mongolian warrior started to look like the aggressor while Asiku appeared to be rocked at the end of the round. Quite rightly, he switched tactics and started the fourth jabbing and moving, but got sucked into the trenches again and, although eating more hooks, held his own till the bell. Once again capitalizing on the opponent left hook, Tseveenpurev took charge in the fifth scoring heavily to the body and leaving his foe looking all over the place. Jackson started the sixth aggressively and went after his man, but a couple of uppercuts on the chin stopped him on his tracks and shook him, and this time he did not come back. Although taking some straight right hands, in the seventh, Choi managed to knock down Asiku after a hard exchange on the ropes. Round 8 and 9 were two even and brutal affair, where both men gave as much as they took, standing again toe to toe, but in the tenth the Australian based warrior from Uganda was on the back foot and, although still punching back, appeared to feel his opponent punches way more than his opponent felt his. Choi Tseveenpurev earned the victory by way of a 98-93 decision in a fight with no loser, but congratulations must go to Jackson Asiku too or putting up such a brilliant fight.
What should have been the chief supporting contest of the night, a challenge between Southern Area champion Darren Hamilton (8-2, 1 ko) and Midlands fellow title holder Dave Ryan (12-4, 3 ko’s) ended very disappointingly by disqualification at 1:42 of the first round after Hamilton deliberately headbutted Ryan on the ropes opening a gush over his left eye. It is a true shame after his brilliant performance against Peter McDonagh last time around. We hope there will be other chances for Darren and that he can learn from this like he did from his ko loss to Setterfield, but there cannot be any complaints whatsoever about the referee’s decision.
It is well worth mentioning Hard Knocks Joe Catchpole (4-0-1)’s performance against Steve Spence (2-5-2, 1 ko), with whom he drew last time around. The first bout between the two was fought at Welterweight, at Joe’s disadvantage, as he cannot make the 150 limit anymore. But, weight aside, by his own admission there were other flaws in his game that needed to be addressed. In this 4×3 rematch at Light Middle, Catchpole showed great improvement in his defence and a certain degree of maturity in sticking to his gameplan without getting involved in the frustrated attempts of his opponent to drag him into a war. Joe moved well around the ring, slipping and blocking most shots coming his way, while picking and landing his own carefully. Overall, he set the pace and controlled the action to comfortably win a 40-37 decision. A word of praise must go to trainer Harry Andrews for the great work he did with Joe and with Hamilton in his previous fight. Both fighters seemed transformed under his tutelage and, tactically, he is slowly emerging like somebody any other trainer at domestic level should be wary of having in the opposite corner.
Mickey Coveney (11-13, 2 ko’s) managed to score a minor upset over fellow southpaw Lightweight and highly touted Hard Knocks prospect Alex Dilmaghani (5-1, 1 ko) handing him his first defeat over 4 rounds. Alex spent most of the first three rounds with his back on the ropes, as a consequence of his opponent’s constant pressure, where Mickey was able to score more and cleaner punches. He was more effective in the fourth, using all of the ring to move and keeping Coveney’s at range, but it was too little too late and the bout ended with a deserved 39-38 decision for Mickey. While a short guy like Coveney has no choice but to fight one way (to keep low, come forward, and try to get inside), you have to wonder why Dilmaghani’s or, may be, his corner could not come up with a plan B.
In the end, as last time, Spencer Fearon came up 50/50, with two wins and two losses for his fighters, but once again the crowd, made in good percentage of pretty girls, families and other social categories who do not necessarily know in depth the history of boxing or understand all its technical aspects, got their money worth. We will keep an eye on what Hard Knocks will come up next.
More UK Boxing
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Relationship weathers storm as boyfriend proposes in front of tornado
A Texas woman was nearly blown away by her boyfriends one-of-a-kind marriage proposal. - photo by Jessica Ivins
MCLEAN, Texas A Texas woman was nearly blown away by her boyfriends one-of-a-kind marriage proposal.
Thats because her storm-chasing fianc dropped to one knee just as a tornado raged in the background.
Britney Fox has always known her boyfriend of 18 months Alex Bartholomew as one who is not afraid to take risks. He does, after all, chase dangerous storms in his free time, Today reported.
So when he asked her to join him on a tornado hunt earlier this month, she knew it would be a thrill ride. Little did she know, Bartholomew himself had epic plans to be the one to sweep her off her feet.
I really wanted to propose in front of a tornado to combine the two loves of my life, he told Today.
Bartholomew who purchased an engagement ring back in March recruited several of his storm-chasing pals to help him with the big event, according to a post on his Facebook page.
As the crew approached a brewing tornado near McLean, Texas, they pulled over to the side of the road and Bartholomew led Fox out of the car for a better look.
It was far enough away that I wasnt even a little bit nervous, Fox told the Dallas Morning News.
Bartholomew was the one with the nerves as he dropped to one knee to pop a pretty important question. But it turns out he didnt have anything to fear but the storm.
I almost forgot about the tornado behind us because all I could see was him and how happy I felt in that moment, Fox told the Huffington Post.
One of Bartholomews friends took photos of the magical moment, while the other two caught the event on video all of which Bartholomew shared on his Facebook page.
Wow what a day, he wrote. Two (maybe 3 tornadoes), great storms and most importantly she said YES! I cant quite describe the feeling that has overcome me. Elated, ecstatic, overjoyed
The awe-inspiring photos quickly went viral garnering more than a thousand reactions and 583 shares as of Tuesday night.
What a way to start your lives together, wrote one commenter. Congratulations.
Congrats!!! wrote another. Now run and take cover!
The couples story has been featured on numerous national news outlets even the Weather Channel gave them a shoutout.
While all the attention has been exciting, the real celebration lies in the outcome of the proposal, according to Bartholomew.
I seriously couldnt ask for a better life and I cant wait to spend it with her by my side, he wrote on Facebook.
Bartholomew picked a good day for the chase there were more than two dozen reported tornadoes throughout the U.S. on May 16, according to USA Today.
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Bad Debt, Bad Decisions
Friday, 9/27/2019 09:01
"Don't just book it..."
BRITAIN's oldest travel company collapsed this week, after a long period on the ropes, writes MoneyWeek's executive editor John Stepek in his free daily investment email Money Morning.
Thomas Cook was 178 years old. It could count Winston Churchill, Mark Twain, Rudyard Kipling, and Oscar Wilde among its (presumably satisfied) customers.
Now it is no more.
So what went wrong? And what can investors learn from it?
It's easy to assume that a package tour holiday company might be doomed in the era of the internet and the budget airline. But that particular brand of "disruption" has been around for decades now. So blaming "change" for Thomas Cook's collapse is simply mistaken.
Thomas Cook's collapse is primarily down to bad management decisions and taking on far too much debt. As the FT puts it, the woes that ultimately brought down the group "can be traced back to 2007".
That's when it merged with UK holiday company MyTravel (that same month, rival TUI merged with First Choice Holidays). In 2010, it then merged with Co-operative Travel, and inherited a load of high street travel agencies.
So not only was it loaded up with "legacy assets" which were losing value in an online era, it was also loaded up with debt – about £1.7bn in total. In all, says Reuters, "it had to sell three million holidays a year just to cover its interest payments."
And this is in a tough, low-margin business, prone to "uncontrollable" external shocks such as surging oil prices, terrorist attacks, or any other sort of disaster that can render a country or region a "no-go" area for tourism for a prolonged period of time. In other words, you had an extremely fragile business operating in an extremely fragile business sector.
It warned on profits three times in 2011, and shed chief executive Manny Fontenla-Novoa (who oversaw the expansion era). Harriet Green took over, spent most of her time refinancing everything, then handed over to Peter Fankhauser. 2018 saw another two profit warnings, by which time it was clear that the group needed to take drastic action.
A rescue deal had been lined up – Chinese group Fosun was going to inject a lot of money in return for taking over the majority of the tour operator (and a minority stake in the airline). The creditors (the banks and bondholders) would get the rest, converting their debt to equity.
But the banks looked at the company, and realised that it would need another £200m to see it through the winter. Already facing a big haircut, they didn't fancy putting in more themselves. Fosun balked at it too. And so the deal fell through.
You will see a lot of blame throwing for all of this, with "the banks" in particular coming in for stick.
I am no defender of "banks" and they have been responsible for a lot of outrageous abuses of consumers and businesses over the decades. But in this case, the broad truth is pretty simple: you had an immensely indebted company, with a business model of uncertain value, that was at the mercy of its creditors. It couldn't come up with an appealing enough deal for them, and so it went to the wall.
Bear in mind that almost everyone with a stake in the company now stands to lose out – that should tell you something about how unconvinced the creditors were about the company's recovery prospects.
We have more in the magazine this week about the implications for those who booked with Thomas Cook. It's a grim outcome for the 21,000 employees, very disappointing for people whose holidays have been cancelled at the last minute, and somewhat inconvenient (though less disastrous) for the 600,000-odd tourists left abroad (about 150,000 of whom are British and will have to be repatriated).
It's also bound to have a knock-on effect to a lot of suppliers in the resorts and regions where Thomas Cook was particularly dominant.
But this morning I just want to look at the lessons that investors can draw from this sorry outcome.
First, debt is deadly. If you are an equity investor – ie, a shareholder – you must always remember that you are last in line to get paid. When an indebted company runs into trouble, it's the creditors who end up in charge and they only have so much patience.
An overload of debt forces managers to make choices that a company with a healthy balance sheet wouldn't make – choices made out of a need to survive in the short term, rather than because it's the best long-term decision.
Different types of businesses have lower or higher tolerances for debt – broadly speaking, the more predictable the revenues, the more sustainably indebted a company can afford to be.
But whatever stock you invest in, make sure you understand its entire debt position. How much does it owe? And to who? And what hidden liabilities does it have? What long-term commitments is it tied into that it can't break?
Secondly, low interest rates have created an environment in which troubled companies can limp on for longer. The holiday industry was suffering from over-capacity. The demise of Thomas Cook will help to clear a lot of that.
Which other industries are suffering from the same problems, and which companies will end up being the "zombies" that get taken out when creditors finally decide that enough is enough? And which of their rivals will benefit from that? Thomas Cook shareholders have had a miserable week, but anyone owning shares in its rival holiday groups and airlines had a good Monday morning.
Finally, brands are fantastic assets – until they're not. A brand requires maintenance. You can't just build it and then expect it to stand there, a monument to the brilliance of the company, and a beacon to future customers for ever more. A company's brand has to keep on earning the love and respect of consumers.
A company with a "much-loved brand" which no longer invests in the things that the brand became "much-loved" for, is coasting. You can coast for a long time (Marks & Spencer is great proof of just how much ruin is in a brand). But eventually, you'll hit a wall.
So don't allow yourself to be distracted by a famous name. If it helps, imagine a company is called Acme Co, before you look at its accounts. It might help you to be objective.
For more on Thomas Cook's collapse – and the implications for anyone who'd booked a flight or got stuck abroad – check out this week's issue of MoneyWeek.
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Ramaphosa cool on vaccine business opportunities
Black business has appealed to the president to make space for companies in the distribution of Covid-19 shots
Heineken SA becomes first major company to cut jobs due to alcohol sales ban
Seventy workers out of a workforce of 1,000 will lose their jobs as brewer laments that the decision was ‘not an easy one to make’
Janet Yellen urges legislators to ‘act big’ on Covid relief package
The Treasury nominee says with rates at historic lows, ‘the smartest thing we can do is act big’ in support of Joe Biden's $1.9-trillion stimulus package
World / Americas
Trump says he is feeling much better, and will be back soon
Rap on knuckles for chief of staff for telling reporters US president’s vital signs look troubling
04 October 2020 - 20:43 Josh Wingrove, Jordan Fabian and Jennifer Jacobs
US President Trump walks to the Marine One helicopter as he departs from the White House to fly to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, in Washington, the US, October 2 2020. Picture: REUTERS/LEAH MILLIS
Washington — President Donald Trump has sought to dispel questions about the severity of his coronavirus infection by calling for a new round of stimulus, posting the second video of himself in two days and launching a fresh round of campaigning by top supporters.
In the video, posted on Twitter after nearly 24 hours in the hospital, Trump said “I feel much better now” and “I think I’ll be back soon” to the re-election campaign. His doctor, Sean Conley, said in a Saturday night update that the president had made “substantial progress” and “spent most of the afternoon conducting business”.
Trump lashed out in private at his chief of staff, Mark Meadows, after learning that it was Meadows who told reporters earlier in the day that the president’s vital signs looked troubling, and that the next 48 hours would be crucial as the president was not yet on a clear path to recovery.
That contradicted a public readout of Trump’s condition from Conley, signalling that in the White House questions still linger on the president’s health as he entered a second full day at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
Trump’s re-election campaign is now mobilising allies to counteract that image through appearances on television and other media, according to people familiar with the plans who also described Trump’s displeasure with Meadows. The effort by allies to show Trump making a strong recovery was under way on Saturday, with the addition of Trump campaign adviser Jason Miller to the guest line-up of NBC’s Meet the Press.
The president’s campaign launched Operation MAGA to send out surrogates who would attest to his vitality and keep his voter base motivated until Trump recovers enough to resume campaigning in person.
Even so, the virus spread further in the president’s circle as Chris Christie, the former New Jersey governor and Trump debate coach, said he checked into a hospital on Saturday with “mild symptoms” of Covid-19.
In an update issued by the White House on Saturday night, Conley said that while the president was “not yet out of the woods, the team remains cautiously optimistic”. Conley said that Trump had received without complications a second dose of Gilead Sciences’s Remdesivir, which is authorised for use on Covid-19 hospital patients.
The doctor told reporters earlier in the day that Trump had a “mild cough and some nasal congestion and fatigue” on Thursday, but all of those symptoms were “resolving and improving”.
The remarks contradicting Conley’s upbeat account of Trump’s health were initially attributed to an informed source and included in a pool report shared with the White House press corps. A video later surfaced on the internet showing Meadows talking to the reporters.
Though Conley said Trump has been fever free for more than 24 hours, he declined to answer several questions directly about the president’s health, including what his temperature was on Thursday or whether he was ever on supplemental oxygen to help him breathe.
Meadows said in a Fox News interview on Saturday night that Trump was “doing really well now” but on Friday had a fever and reduced blood-oxygen saturation.
“Yesterday morning we were concerned with that,” he said. “He had a fever, and his blood oxygen level had dropped rapidly.”
Conley also created some confusion by putting the timeline of the president’s diagnosis at 72 hours, longer than previously announced. Later on Saturday, he corrected his remarks, reiterating that Trump was first diagnosed with Covid on Thursday night.
Trump praised the doctors and nurses at Walter Reed on Saturday, tweeting: “With their help, I am feeling well!” In another tweet, he called for legislators to agree on another round of pandemic relief to spur the US economy.
Conley said Trump had not had trouble breathing. Trump’s blood-oxygen saturation level was 96% to 98% and he was not at present on supplemental oxygen, Conley said. Trump did not need oxygen on Thursday or Friday after he was taken to hospital, but the doctor did not say if the president was given oxygen on Friday while still at the White House.
The doctor declined to say when the president last received a negative coronavirus test and how Trump was infected, calling the question “irrelevant” to his care. Asked about Trump’s risk factors for Covid-19, Conley said: “He’s 74, he’s male and he’s slightly overweight. Other than that, he’s very healthy.”
Trump is only the most prominent case in the coronavirus outbreak among top Republican leaders. Trump’s campaign manager, Bill Stepien, and Republican national committee chair Ronna McDaniel both tested positive.
Three Republican senators said they also tested positive last week: Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, Thom Tillis of North Carolina and Mike Lee of Utah. Trump’s 2016 campaign manager and former top aide Kellyanne Conway tweeted late on Friday that she, too, had contracted the virus.
Christie said on Saturday that he tested positive. “In consultation with my doctors, I checked myself into Morristown Medical Center this afternoon,” he said on Twitter. “While I am feeling good and only have mild symptoms, due to my history of asthma we decided this is an important precautionary measure.”
Trump travelled to New Jersey on Thursday for a fundraiser after learning that a close aide, Hope Hicks, had tested positive for coronavirus infection. CDC guidelines call for people who are in close contact with infected people to quarantine themselves for 14 days and practice social-distancing at all times.
Conley said that he had made the call for Trump to go to Walter Reed, despite evidently mild symptoms “because he’s the president of the US”.
Some of the infected Republicans, including Lee, Tillis and Conway, attended a September 26 event at the White House where Trump announced he would nominate judge Amy Coney Barrett to replace the late supreme court judge Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Though the event was held outdoors at the White House Rose Garden, there were few public-health precautions.
More than 150 people sat side by side in the audience. Almost no-one wore masks. Lee was seen hugging other guests. Many of the guests participated in crowded indoor receptions.
Trump entered hospital on Friday night after announcing earlier in the day that he and first lady Melania Trump had been diagnosed with the disease caused by the novel coronavirus.
Doctors have administered a pair of advanced treatments to the president: Remdesivir and an experimental “antibody cocktail” made by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals that does not yet have FDA approval.
Trump posted his first video to Twitter since the diagnosis as he arrived at Walter Reed on Friday evening. “I’m doing very well, but we’re going to make sure that things work out,” he said.
Trump embraced use of Covid test at White House but often skipped his own
US president’s strategy proves to be no match for the virus
Who said what about Donald Trump getting Covid-19
From gushing by Putin and Pence, to castigation by China and his niece Mary Trump, here are some of the responses
Donald Trump tests positive for Covid-19 and markets worry
But analysts say the initial risk-off moves were a knee-jerk reaction
Debate disaster merely underlines Donald Trump as a dolt
In future, the moderator should have the ability to mute microphones if rules are broken
Would you like to comment on this article or view other readers' comments?
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ECONOMIC WEEK AHEAD: Glimmer of hope expected from business confidence index
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Herring fishery restarts
HB Grandi's pelagic vessels are back on the herring fishery after a break last week. Lundey NS sailed yesterday, Faxi RE is scheduled to sail today and Ingunn AK on Thursday.
According to pelagic division manager Vilhjálmur Vilhjálmsson, Norwegian and Faroese pelagic vessels found herring over the weekend after searching for a few days. The fishing is reported to have been along the Norwegian line at around 68°N.
The HB Grandi fleet took a break last week after approximately 2000 tonnes of herring were landed at Vopnafjördur early last week. Icelandic processor vessels have also been searching for herring in catchable amounts alongside Faroese and Norwegian vessels, but with no results until last weekend.
35,000 tonnes of herring and mackerel
So far this season, HB Grandi's pelagic vessels have landed roughly 35,000 tonnes of herring and mackerel with a catch value of approximately a billion Isl Kr. As there have been a total of 165 fishing days this season, this gives each day at sea at a value of 6 million Isl Kr. Virtually all of the catches to date have been taken inside the Icelandic EEZ.
'We have about 20,000 tonnes of herring quota left and expect that now the fishing has picked up again that most of this will now be taken in the Herring Loophole or in the Norwegian EEZ,'
says Vilhjálmur Vilhjálmsson.
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Tommy Rowe credits former Bristol City boss for helping him excel on left flank
Summer free transfer spoke to us earlier this week...
Gregor MacGregor
Tommy Rowe on the ball for Bristol City
That Gary Johnson-Lee Johnson link remains ever fruitful. On Tuesday night Saikou Janneh returned to Torquay United on loan and immediately hit the post against Wrexham. But father Gary's help for Bristol City goes way beyond that.
Tommy Rowe was at Peterborough United for five years (2009-14) - and his path crossed that of Gary in the 2010-11 campaign.
In the summer, Johnson senior put in a good word - as he explained to us recently - for the wing-back as the Robins snapped up the then Doncaster Rovers captain on a free transfer.
And Rowe has repaid that handy job reference by recently speaking with Johnson as the Gulls visited Failand to take on Bristol City in a behind closed doors game earlier this month (as the Robins lost 0-2, but Lee Johnson later explained that he'd set his team the task of completing 650 passes rather than just winning the game).
Tommy Rowe of Bristol City shoots as James Shea of Luton Town comes out to challenge (Image: Rogan/JMP)
"It's definitely something that influenced it," said Rowe this week, on his move to the West Country in the summer and the role Gary played.
"He [Johnson senior] came to the training ground not long ago and we had a good chat.
"It's quite funny really because my time with Gary was when we were in the Championship at Peterborough and I was really young and I was still learning my way.
"He was a great person for me at the time to help me on the way I wanted to play. I was very much a player that would play any position back then. So I think that was the reason why.
"The attitude I showed adapting to a new manager, new position and new shapes. That was an easy one for him to say, "You can adapt, people change, and people grow into different players..."
"It's a part of my game that I have Gary to thank for: the way I've adapted to certain positions, different roles.
"I always think it's a good thing for players to learn different roles and responsibilities in a team.
"Two players for every position or why not a player who can play three or four positions? Then you're covered if there is injuries," added Rowe whose path crossed with former City favourite Aaron Wilbraham while both were at Stockport County for a year some 15 years ago.
Rowe has been outstanding down the left flank this season and explains that one-on-one drills with Jamie McAllister - another former Robins left-back of 210 appearances - has helped immensely, with a key period in pre-season as all the full-backs were grouped together and schooled in how the management team expect the four to perform this season.
With two goals and a vital assist against Wigan last Sunday as his cross-shot was fizzed straight at Andi Weimann in 13 Championship appearances this campaign, Rowe is "absolutely loving" life at Bristol City and admits that has not always been the case at other clubs. "It doesn't always work that way and I've been at a few clubs now".
Tommy Rowe of Bristol City (Image: Rogan/JMP)
According to Opta statistics the contender for 'signing of the season', as declared by Lee Johnson earlier this season, also makes more interceptions per game than any other player in the league, bar Ben White of Leeds United.
He is surprised when we tell him (2.9 per game; Ben White is 3 per game).
"That must mean I'm out of position a lot," he jokes. We counter that it might actually mean the opposite. "Anything like that goes right over my head," he explains. Rowe admits to being one of the players acting as Lee Johnson's 'eyes and ears' on the pitch.
Bristol City transfers and news LIVE Lee Johnson latest, Barnsley build-up, Championship updates
"You can only put it down to the team... We move as a unit. I think that's a strongpoint of this team: the way we lead on the pitch. You see from a far it's quite loud on a match day but you see a lot of hands being pointed, and things getting said in the intensity of a game. And that's what we're good at."
Having another leader on the pitch, in Rowe, certainly helps.
Bristol City top stories
City fans on Jan transfer window
Every word from Dean Holden
City linked to striker again
City linked with new left-back
Get lots more news, opinion and transfer updates on our Bristol City FC page and add a bookmark to find it quickly next time.
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Pandemic Pecking Order: Are You Still the Best?
From alumnus K. Roberts '00
You got into Brown because you were one of the best – one of the smartest, most capable, most promising. What now though? In the era of COVID-19, are you still elite? Or… are you walking around with a facemask so flimsy, it’s only a safeguard against anyone getting the idea that you’re safe?
Steps to stay on top while you stay at home
Do not despair. Even in this time of crisis, you can still be best, because you have a natural ability. Take any of these steps to ensure your economic viability and reestablish your stake in success moving forward:
Contact leaders in the pangolin, bat, and snake trafficking industries to see how you can help with reputation management.
Create a prototype for a virtual personal electric fence that shocks anyone who gets within six feet of the wearer.
Skip to the next generation of self-defense/offense equipment with your launch of the world’s first 4D-printed guns.
Coordinate with the CIA to reopen MKUltra and test COVID-19 treatment via large amounts of LSD (with subjects quarantined in padded cells, per usual).
How I can help if you’re a novel bottom-feeder
Those are just a few ideas. It’s time to brainstorm. It’s time to create lightning with your brain and be a little less concerned about how many “hikers” (everyday thoughts) you electrocute.
Because look, you may have problems. Maybe you aren’t the best anymore. Maybe you’re a bottom-feeder now. Maybe you’re a flounder. Or a haddock. But very possibly an eel.
Are you lost, swimming around with a weird snaky body, unsure which way to turn? What you need is real help that only a professional life coach can provide. And don’t worry about the money: I can take cuts of future student loan payments.
And yes, I do also sell drugs (mood-altering, mind-altering, and even math-altering varieties), but I try to keep those two businesses separate. I have two business cards and everything. They even have different names on them.
My point is that I can help, especially with the LSD thing and accessing the additional dimension. You’d be surprised how easy it is to inject another dimension into rainbow-colored AK-47s that shoot gumdrops.
Kent Roberts was the editor-in-chief of the Jug in 1999. He has regularly contributed to The Onion and is currently shopping the manuscript of his second book, Kentbook, which is based on a publication he started at Brown. He can be reached at kent@tgikent.com.
K. Roberts
The Physician's Guide to Cuffing Season Syndrome
by J. Kaiserman '23
What I'm Looking for in a Boyfriend
By F. Bauer '23 Dear lonely souls and potential suitors, With another solitary Valentine’s Day come and gone (and another tub of ice cream come and gone), I’ve begun to lose hope that I might find my
Things My Poor Mother, Bless Her Heart, Has Been Lied to About
By O. Rousseau '21 A Manifesto My mother has been lied to about: Essential oils (which do not make me feel any less anxious) The financial benefits of owning and operating her very own essential oils
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Search Marketing > SEO > Search Marketing: Analyze This – Keynote Panel
Search Marketing: Analyze This – Keynote Panel
Henry Blodget, CEO and editor-in-chief, The Business Insider
Erika D. Brown, EVP Corporate Strategy, Digital Media Practice, Frost & Sullivan
Jonathan Blum, principal, Blumsday LLC
Brad Hill, director, Weblogs, Inc. / AOL
Mike explains that the industry big-brains on the panel will talk about where we are in search and where it’s likely to go. What’s happening in the tech space now and what’s likely to develop?
Henry says that in 2000 he was in the midst of a tectonic shift and Google has exploded into a huge and powerful business. He says it seems we may be on the verge of another tectonic shift caused by social media networks.
Jonathan says that in 2000, his content creation company became an expert in time — how long it takes to create and disseminate a story. This gave them a huge advantage in their industry. About nine months ago, the number of clients that call looking for content dropped to zero. They’ve had to close their freemium content model and move to lead generation.
Henry asks Jonathan what happened that they lost their business in the former model. Brad explains that SEO has changed and it’s now about community and personal networks and encountering what you want to find on the Web because a user surrounds themselves with sources that are important to them.
Jonathan says he also thinks there’s a “hip” factor. Cool, engaged people aren’t coming from search engines anymore. They’re looking at their comfort networks.
Erika jumps in and says she disagrees. Facebook is where you talk to friends. LinkedIn is where you talk to colleagues. Twitter is where you try to look cool. Google is where you look for products and services. Social is not disrupting Google’s place in consumers’ research and purchasing habits.
Brad agrees essentially, but he says that if they weren’t being affected by social platforms we wouldn’t be seeing them scramble to incorporate real-time content. And when a news story breaks now, Twitter is the first place they turn to post pictures. Google is the furthest thing from their mind.
Brad says that SEO now encompasses the social platforms. As always, you have to put content where users are and expose it in a way that people will just spread it in their personal networks. Virality is now more than just creating a funny video. Virality now is — well, no one really knows.
Jonathan says virality today may be meaningless.
Erika says that she sees SEO now to mean “search everything optimization.” Less and less results are straight HTML pages, so you have to adapt to that.
Henry says he doesn’t see the commerce search utility in social. He asks Erika if that’s what she means by Google isn’t being disrupted. Erika replies that there are definitely category killers. Unless Google and Bing come up with a killer mobile marketing application, they’re not going to be the place where people tell friends about the baby they just had or to go looking for a hotel. They’re going to Facebook and Orbitz, for the previous examples.
Speaking of mobile, Henry asks when will mobile marketing that we’ve heard so much about come to existence, if ever?
Erika gives a futuristic example of the promise of mobile marketing, where your phone notices you’ve been lingering around the toothpaste aisle longer, and it knows your favorite toothpaste is Aquafresh. If you get a message that says “buy one get one Aquafresh when you mention this promo code”, that lives up to the promise. She says this would be the first time that consumers are reached during the shopping process rather than before or after as is the case today. She thinks mobile marketing should become footstep marketing.
Henry asks about what Bing’s chances are in search.
Brad says that in the publishing world, search engines aren’t considered as much as keywords are. Yes, they track referral traffic, but they get wins and losses on keywords.
Henry says that lots of people are predicting an upcoming app economy. Others are saying that mobile is just another browser and we have to make sure it renders, but don’t necessarily have to invest bi in app development.
Brad says that they’re definitely investing in apps, but it’s much more costly to do this, whereas addressing mobile rendering can be rolled out across their network. If you have to choose between developing apps and optimizing your site for mobile, go with optimizing for mobile because it’s a lower cost.
Henry asks if people should be investing in download apps?
Erika says that it takes two minutes to make your site mobile. No excuses for not doing that. As far as apps, it’s making her clients nervous that Apple has such a closed system. Still, yes, invest in apps but if you do, also invest in the marketing because people will have to find it.
Henry says that today there is Apple’s closed app platform and Google’s open and free app platform. Is it going to mimic the 90s when it was Apple vs. the more open Microsoft?
Jonathan argues that Android is going to become the dominant platform. He thinks they’ll easily scale past Apple. However, Android doesn’t offer the same ease of use but Google’s getting a pass from consumers because they’re Google.
Brad expects it to be Apple vs. Google over the next few years and sees it shaking out the same as Jonathan does.
They’ve gone on a tangent about Web TV, with Erika explaining the ability to buy the coffee table you see on your favorite sitcom. The rest of the panel groans and Brad says he doesn’t see the consumer appetite for this. Jonathan says that Web brands have become the dominant mover and shaker in their dominant niche market, but this is not a broad audience.
Most people aren’t advertising on the three major engines — just Google — they’re not segmenting ad groups, they’re not writing great ad copy. So why is there even a need to explore things like social when there’s so much money being left on the table in search?
Brad says they don’t do paid search in a significant way so he can’t speak to money left on the table or tactics. With social, that’s where people are, that’s where people are exposed, that’s where people are sharing.
Erika thinks marketers should pay attention to social media because of the listening factor. You don’t have the opportunity to disrespect any client because the one annoying client you deal with is going to tweet negatively. When that one annoying tweet shows up in the results, you’ll feel it.
Brad says that reputation management alone is good reason to engage in social media.
What do you think of the social media ad model?
Brad thinks that Twitter falls most easily into the search ad model. Facebook is different and more complex.
How can we make the Web less of a slum?
Jonathan suggests consumers pay some tiny fraction of a cent for every page they visit on the Web. This would bring people to a better understanding that everything they touch online is worth something. That would cut down on the bloating of Web pages.
Brad says that users are faced with too much cheap content. He says the answer is some kind of filtering. Either a portal filters for you or you filter personally through your social networks. As a user, the tools are there to cut through the news. As a publisher you need to engage with those tools in a way that your stuff rises to the surface. Henry adds that there’s also brand filtering. Consumers buy brand.
Nothing is more powerful than a personal recommendation, Brad says. If he were to try to use Twitter to find a good digital camera, he’d tear his hair out because it’s not possible today. But that doesn’t lessen the truth that personal recommendations are gold.
Erika predicts “agents” on Twitter or Facebook, those with large followings, can be paid to market for businesses. Jonathan says that happens today.
If you have some really eloquent Harvard grad write incredibly beautiful content for your site, can that attract an audience?
Jonathan answers no and says that’s what has killed his content creation network. Brad says that there’s a continuum — from content mills to the new media skilled to an eloquent Harvard grad.
What advice can you give to new publishers to survive?
Brad says that any publisher that’s aware of changing conditions is thinking in terms of keywords and meeting search demand. For the freelancer or journalist, it’s always been a game of anticipating demand. They should be aware of query search engines that show what topics are in demand, because that’s what it’s about today.
Posted by Virginia Nussey on March 23rd, 2010 at 11:10 am
Filed under: SEO — Tags: Liveblog
One Reply to “Search Marketing: Analyze This – Keynote Panel”
Interesting the same people that said Android was DOA just over a year ago are now saying it will dominate the mobile landscape – way to read the tea leaves.
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You are here: Home » Online Slots » The Oracle Slot
The Oracle Slot
Software Cryptologic Coin Values 0.05 to 5.00
Reels 5 Bonus Round No
Lines 9 Multipliers Yes
Max Win 4,000x Free Spins Yes
Max Coins/Line 1 Wild Yes
The Oracle Slot Overview
The Oracle is an online slot that makes use of a 5 reel 9 line interface. The game includes mysterious elements such as crystal balls and candles amongst others. 4,000 coins make up the game’s top prize and when you consider the many additional features such as the wilds, scatters and free games amongst others, The Oracle improves in every aspect. Could there be riches in your future?
The Oracle Slot Review
The Oracle contains some great prize and numerous ways to win them. Although production values are somewhat copied from various other titles made by the same company, they still do an effective job in conveying the sense of mysticism related to the oracle. Icons further continue the theme and the sound design effectively compliments the on screen action. The Oracles combines the supernatural with a modern slot, resulting in a lot of fun.
The Oracle is a game with presentation that effectively conveys the eerie kind of feel related to the paranormal. There are some exceptional prizes on offer and various additional features that do enhance the overall proceedings of the game play quite considerably. What you have here is good, solid game play without the fuss of the more advanced slots out there. Give this slot a try, you won’t be disappointed.
The wild is represented by the Oracle image and can replace where necessary (with the exception of the scatter) to produce winnings.
The Oracle Scatter Symbol
The scatter icon is represented by the image of the crystal ball. Earn multiples of 1, 5, 20 or 150 of the amount you betted by revealing the scatter 2, 3, 4 or 5 times.
The Oracle Free Spins
Gain 5, 10 or 15 free games by revealing the scatter 3, 4 or 5 times. While in the free games mode, you can earn even more free games and all rewards during this process will be multiplied by three.
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Small Fire at Landfill
GEORGE TOWN SHUTTLE SERVICE EXPANDS ROUTES TO SERVICE SUPERMARKET SHOPPERS
Minister of Agriculture Appeals to Residents to Start Backyard Gardens
NATIONAL COVID-19 VACCINATION PLAN CHANGED
LAW FRATERNITY REFLECTS ON 2020
Premier and Government await Judicial Review
Local News 04 Dec, 2019 Follow News
In a statement on Tuesday, the Hon. Alden McLaughlin said that his concern that the referendum on Government’s proposed cruise berthing and cargo port project would be delayed has been realised.
“As I have been saying for the past few weeks, the referendum was at risk,” Mr. McLaughlin said. “We will now need to await the judicial review in January before having a clear idea as to the way forward. I do believe the majority of the country was prepared to go to the polls and vote in the referendum on the 19th of December, which will remain a public holiday as it is now too late to rescind it.”
Grand Court Judge Tim Owen granted leave this morning to apply for judicial review and provisionally scheduled a full hearing for 20 January, 2020. He indicated the referendum should be delayed until after a judgment is delivered.
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38 Things All '90s Kids Should Have In Their Lives
Pop your CD of "Spice World" into your boombox and let's DO THIS THANG.
by Heather Braga
1. Spice Girls vinyl decals you can apply to wine glasses, perfect for the group of friends who was forever arguing over who got to be Baby Spice for Halloween.
BespokeBrideShop / Etsy
Get a set of five from BespokeBrideShop on Etsy for $8.25 (available in 18 colors).
2. An original Tamagotchi you'll be WAY more equipped to take care of now that you're somewhat of an adult...I hope,=,
amazon.com, Amazon
Promising review: "I LOVED Tamagotchis as a kid! If you want a shot of nostalgia, pick this up. They're super cute and fun to play around with. I didn't have any problems with the screen brightness personally. Keep in mind these things can get annoying after awhile with the beeping, if you don't remember that part from your childhood, haha, I finally understand why my parents disliked them — my little pixel monster is a hungry guy and he never shuts up!" —Karli
Looking to upgrade your Tamagotchi experience? Be sure to check out the NEW Tamagotchi On when it debuts in four fun colors on August 15th!
Get it from Amazon for $49.99.
3. A Lion King VHS case replica journal that'll take you right back to 1994 when you first started ~workin' on your roar~.
The Lion King was the first movie I ever saw in theaters, so you better believe I own one of these bad boys! I keep mine on my desk because it's so darn cute and fills me with Disney magic. Don't judge me.
Promising review: "I still have my original Lion King VHS. This is smaller than the actual VHS. The cover is an exact replica. The back of this journal has different images than what is on the VHS tape case. I like that when you open it up the first page is a picture of the VHS tape. This brings back so many memories." —tlkdisneyfan
Get it from shopDisney for $15.99.
4. A Caboodle to store all of your precious jewels just like you did back in the day when your prized possession was a 25-cent ring out of a vending machine.
Just like the one you (and I) had when we were kids, this Caboodle features a lift-up mirror, a deep storage base, and an auto-open tray. Mine used to be covered in stickers I got at the pediatrician and stored Spice Girl lollipops.
Promising review: "Love this! Reminds me of my childhood! This is so convenient especially when you are on-the-go or a busy person! I don't have great lighting in my bedroom or bathroom so I tend to do my makeup at the kitchen table or living room for better lighting. This is big enough to store your main everyday essential makeup items. I just carry this to whichever room I need to do my makeup in or I bring it with me when I travel. Lots of compartments to organize your makeup too! " —jenerationmama
5. Madden Girl sandals that may trigger some painful memories of tripping and falling on your face because you were WAY too uncoordinated to be struttin' your stuff in backless wedges (No? Just me? OK, cool).
My sister ripped open BOTH of her knees after taking a tumble in these bad boys while running up the block to spot fireworks on a 4th of July way back when. BE CAREFUL.
Promising review: "I wore these sandals many years ago and loved them! I was so happy to see that they have come back! The most cute and amazingly comfortable sandals that you will ever own. They are timeless! I’m in retail and can work in them all day in. Comfort!" —Penelope
Get them from DSW for $39.99 (available in sizes 6–10).
6. A fanny pack you can wear to a music festival, Disney World, or anywhere you simply want to live your best hands-free life.
Promising review: "Best thing I've bought for myself in a while. I'm horrifying my boyfriend on a regular basis by wearing it on my butt and bouncing it while running down the sidewalk. Embrace your early '90s self and bring back the fanny pack love. My arms and shoulders have never felt so free." —C. Berger
Get it from Amazon for $18.99 (available in 21 styles).
7. A Lisa Frank–inspired tumbler that'll have you reminiscing on all those dope folders and notebooks you used to beg your parents for while Back to School shopping.
MadeByMund / Etsy, Heather Braga / BuzzFeed
This tumbler sparks some serious '90s joy.
Get it from MadeByMund on Etsy for $35+ (available in four sizes).
8. Velvet scrunchies to wear on your wrist as an accessory or use to rock the ultimate '90s-styled high-pony. The choice is yours.
Promising review: "These are perfect y'all. Super cute, the colors are beautiful and they are functional hair scrunchies. I loved them in the '90s and I love them now. Perfect for yourself or for gifts. Seriously, just get them." —Tristan
Get a set of 36 from Amazon for $13.99.
9. A Parent Trap T-shirt so you can always remember the moment Hallie and Annie discovered they were both born on October 11th and were "like twins!"
My Oh My Supply Co.
Ah, the moment we were introduced to Lindsay Lohan. Glorious days.
Get it from My Oh My Supply Co. for $26 (available in unisex sizes XS–4XL).
10. Or a Camp Walden tee, in case you want to DRESS like the infamous twins before they actually swapped places.
NRGTees / Etsy
"I have class and you don't." —Annie James (and me to anyone who doesn't understand the importance of owning this shirt).
Promising review: "I love this shirt! I get compliments/comments on it everywhere I wear it from other millennials who watched The Parent Trap 200 times during their childhoods. The length of the shirt is a little long but that's not really a complaint since I've been tucking it in or tying it in a knot anyway." —Jennie Langley
Get it from NRGTees on Etsy for $20+ (available in unisex sizes S–3XL).
11. Classic tattoo chokers that'll complete any '90s look you put together in honor of one of the greatest fashion eras of our time (HA!).
Amazon, amazon.com
My friends and I split a pack of these relics last summer for a '90s night and it really did help transport us back in time. Highly recommend!
Promising review: "Product arrived exactly as described, and was the perfect addition to the goodie bags I gave out at our '90s themed party! These are really amazing quality too. Would buy again." —Jessica N.
Get a set of eight from Amazon for $10.99+ (available in sets of 8 or 12 and three styles).
12. Super Mario Maker 2 for the Nintendo Switch. It might not be like the classic system you used to fight your siblings over, but it DOES have the capability to let you build your own '90s-style courses!
My husband has been playing this game non-stop and just listening to the game's soundtrack has taken us both back to the '90s. IT'S EXACTLY THE SAME! Soak up the nostalgia my gamer friends. AND If you don't have a Switch yet, get ON that! Or hold out and pre-order the new Switch Lite (it kinda gives of '90s GameBoy vibes). Whatever floats your boat ;)
Promising review: "I'll pour Pasta Fazool all over my face if you don't end up enjoying this game. It's worth it for the 100 pre-made levels alone! My wife is getting tired of hearing trite Italian phrases out of my mouth every several seconds while playing this game though, so use those sparingly is my advice. AYYYYY IM WALKIN' EEERE" —CGR, Inc
13. A T-shirt that'll make you want to crank up Tom Jones' "It's Not Unusual" and break out your best Carlton Banks impression.
Memeskins / Etsy
Get it from Memeskins on Etsy for $18.64 (available in men's sizes XS–2XL and women's sizes XS–XL).
14. Doc Martens, because you can't go wrong with a tried-and-true '90s classic.
Promising review: "These boots are BEAUTIFUL. Exactly as I remembered from my pair I owned in high school. They fit tight on first wear, especially where the tongue meets the boot (the seam). I wore wet wool socks for three hours in them to soften 'em up and form them to my feet. I wore them with regular socks last night for five hours and they fit AWESOME already. No discomfort at all. Super fast and easy to break in when it comes to a leather boot. My Fryes took months to break in and quite honestly, they still aren't nearly as comfortable at these. I'd feel confident wearing these all day or to walk around in a lot. LOVE LOVE THEM." —Sjeasley
Get them from Amazon for $101.24+ (available in sizes 5-16 and 16 colors).
15. A 1990's puzzle you and your siblings will love working on together while ~piecing together~ foggy memories from your childhood.
Promising review: "My husband and I loved putting this puzzle together! It's pretty easy and only took us a few hours here and there over one weekend, but we had so much fun doing it! It brought back so many wonderful memories we had as children in the '90s. Even our neighbors stopped to look at it and reminisce. The quality of this puzzle was superb and there was no confusion on whether or not two pieces fit together, as the pieces were nice and thick. Hands down my favorite puzzle." —brittany
16. A mini dress I'm 100% positive Posh would've stowed away on the Spice World bus in case of a fashion emergency.
Get it from Forever 21 for $14.90 (available in sizes S–L and in black or nude).
17. A 6-in-1 ballpoint pen with colors you can switch with just one click! If you didn't break it trying to get multiple colors to press down at once, did you even grow up in the '90s?
Promising review: "I thought for sure out of the dozen, there'd be at least one dud but every color on every pen works!!! I'm back in college at 36 years of age and I use them in school to take notes. I am going full time so I take a LOT of notes. Not only does the quick color change help me decipher what I'm going over when I'm studying later on but it makes the note taking process much more enjoyable." —Qamara
Get a pack of 12 from Amazon for $12.70.
18. Or a Rugrats mug to perfectly pay tribute to Angelica's sidekick Cynthia. She is an ENTIRE mood.
MaxandMitchCo / Etsy
I can't stop humming "Cynthia she's a really cool dancer! Cynthia! Boogie to groove nooooow!"
Get it from MaxandMitchCo on Etsy for $16.99+ (available with or without personalization).
19. A bathing suit inspired by the classic '90s jazz print. Can't put your finger on where you've seen this design? DIXIE CUPS, PEOPLE!
Shinesty
Get them from Shinesty: women's for $59.99 (available in sizes S–2XL), men's for $59.99 (available in sizes M–2XL).
20. Assorted butterfly clips that'll add pizzazz to your standard hairstyle — just like they did on 7th grade picture day.
Promising review: "I ordered these for a '90s throwback party that I threw for some friends. The quality of them were great and I had plenty left over to give as favors and use as table scatter." —K. Vance
Get a pack of 100 from Amazon for $5.98.
21. Holographic body glitter, so you can flawlessly replicate that I-just-dipped-my-entire-life-in-glitter look you had going for you for the majority of the decade.
I blame Bath and Body Works for selling roll-on body glitter throughout the '90s.
Promising review: "I bought this for a '90s themed party and I loved it. Pink is my favorite color, so I was hoping it would be a bit more pink looking when applied, but it's got great sparkle and it looked awesome outdoors in the sunlight. Definitely recommend as a better alternative if you're not a fan of the giant chunky body glitter." —Caroline Korst
Get it from Amazon for $12.99 (available in five colors).
22. A Toy Story Alien pin to transport your jean jacket flair right back to 1995 (where it probably belongs).
Get it from BoxLunch for $10.90.
23. A bulk order of Ring Pops that'll let you jokingly propose to all of your friends the same way you used to during recess. Fingers crossed someone says YES.
Promising review: "Just like what you had when you were a kid. From memory, it tastes exactly the same...super duper sweet. Also, it takes forever to finish one of these things, so if you're patient enough to keep eating it, it'll last you a while." —James
Get a pack of 20 from Amazon for $6.98.
24. A Zenon: Girl of the 21st Century greeting card you can send to a friend who needs a laugh or pin up as decoration in your cubicle.
HollabackCards / Etsy
Zedis lapedis, guys! This movie came out 1999 and I haven't stopped quoting it since.
Get it from HollabackCards on Etsy for $6.50.
25. A bundle of Beanie Babies that'll take you back to the days you tried SO HARD to collect them all but couldn't get your hands on the special edition Princess Diana bear.
You better believe I had that iconic bear (and like 300 others). BRB while I text my mom and ask if she saved it...
Promising review: "These were awesome, the assortment was perfect. We used these at a carnival and the kids loved them" —Della L. Thompson
Get 25 assorted Beanie Babies from Amazon for $48.94.
26. Friendship bracelets inspired by the ultimate heart throbs of the '90s — The Backstreet Boys. Prepare to have "I Want It That Way" stuck in your head for a month.
TrailofSparkles / Etsy
Promising review: "The bracelets were absolutely amazing! Really awesome quality and really sleek. Jess also helped me out when I had a shipping issue and was so sweet during the entire process!! Please support her small business!" —sidneyann623
Get two from TrailofSparkles on Etsy for $10 (available in six–eight inches).
27. Or 72 slap bracelets you can share with everyone in your life for a fun reminder of how masochistic but stylish y'all were in the '90s.
Putting these on actually DID hurt if you were a *touch* too aggressive...
Promising review: "My 5-year-old loved these for his party favors. But, I'm not sure who liked them more, the kids or the adults who grew up in the '80s and '90s. Great price for so many!" —Ck
Get a set of 72 for $9.99.
28. A Ross Gellar sticker of him in his iconic "Frankie Say Relax" tee. This is a must-have for any Friends fanatic who likes to brag about watching the series in real time and not just through Netflix binges.
Get it from Red Bubble for $2.84+ (available in sizes S–XL and three finishes).
29. Breathable bird's nest–inspired flats you'll want to tweet about ASAP because they remind you of your childhood.
Promising review: "Jelly sandals (those clear plastic, glittery shoes) were all the rage when I was a little girl in the '90s. Every single girl I know had them, but I never owned a pair because my mom thought they looked tacky and that they were just a fad that would fade quickly. Well, she was right about that, but it still crushed me and a part of me has always yearned for those sandals. Now as a 30-year-old, I finally have them and they are gorgeous! Not to mention shockingly comfy! They fit my feet like a glove and are very flexible. Though I’ve only walked in them for about an hour around the house so far, they seem like they will be super comfortable compared to almost all other flats. The little girl inside of me is so elated! Will likely be buying another pair in a different color." —Crystal
Get them from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in sizes 5.5–11 and in five styles).
30. A *timeless* Mickey Mouse watch any true fan would've picked up at The Disney Store back in the day.
Promising review: "This is a very good watch, my dad bought one for me when I was younger and now I want to give one to my son so I bought it for him." —Sal
31. A '90s-themed coloring book that'll have you sassily snapping in Z-formation while you choose whether to color a Ring Pop red or blue.
Promising review: "Flipping through the pages of this book and reliving the '90s events, pop icons, and TV shows was a great way to spend an evening. On top of that the book holds hours of coloring fun, and I am looking forward to spending more nights coloring away. The illustrations have a cool style with great humor and parody that took me down memory lane of my own childhood growing up in the '90s." —Tim S.
Get it from Amazon for $10.
32. A TLC graphic tee to help achieve a flawless "retro" look at your next '90s night.
Get it from Forever 21 for $17.99 (available in sizes S–L).
33. A Bulbasaur Funko Pop that'll keep you company on the Pokémon journey you've been on since 1997.
Promising review: "My son loves this Bulbasaur. He’s a big fan of Pokémon and this is an excellent gift for any Pokémon fan. Razor leaf!!" —alexxbee
Get it from Amazon for $8.72.
34. A Clueless poster to honor the great Cher Horowitz and her impeccable '90s fashion.
FilmFreakDesign / Etsy
Get it from FilmFreakDesign on Etsy for $28+ (available six sizes and with or without personalization).
35. A Kurt Cobain tee you can layer with a oversized flannel or a plaid mini skirt to give off '90s grunge vibes.
Make it a one-stop shopping experience — pick up an on-trend skirt or flannel shirt while you're at it and live out your '90s dreams.
36. Or a surprisingly cute '90s-inspired boyfriend short overalls, because everyone loves a trendy throwback.
Promising review: "For the last couple of years, I've been dreaming about getting a pair of overalls that actually worked for me. I kept trying on pairs everywhere with ZERO luck. I bought these online on a whim, figuring that if they didn't work, I could always return them in-store. I was so surprised when they fit AND looked super cute! I'm so happy that I found a pair of overalls to live out my overall dreams! I wore these on a vacation recently and received a ton of compliments, which was a nice added bonus! They're not form-fitting, and they clearly aren't supposed to be. They're a kind of baggy (but SO comfy) boyfriend-fit. Everything I hoped for! It's the perfect look with a crop top, or even just a regular tee." —Lane
Get them from American Eagle for $59.96 (available in sizes 2XS–M and 2XL).
37. A T-shirt that'll ~spice up~ both your life and your wardrobe with a touch of flair from your favorite girl group. Can I get a "zig-a-zig-ah?"
Get it from Amazon for $23.90+ (available in women's sizes S–4XL, in black or navy, and five styles).
38. And a magical 8 ball, because how else are you going to decide which item to buy first?
This toy was an indecisive kid's dream come true! I'm considering getting one to make all of my adult decisions as well, TBH.
Promising review: "Just like the one we had growing up in the 90s. I was worried this would be cheap or poorly assembled. Not so. I've been amusing my co-workers all week." —Termitesforhire
Get it from Amazon for $5.69+ (available in retro or standard styles).
You, after spending all your money on '90s products instead of rent:
Some reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
Amazon Prime Day is happening July 15–16 this year. Don't have a Prime account yet? Sign up now to be ready to take advantage of all the deals!
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3 Essential Management Routines for a Contact Centre Manager
© deagreez - Adobe Stock - 191179687
Filed under - Call Centre Management, Scheduling, Team Management
Orit Avital, General Manager at Ottorita, suggests three routines that managers should add to their schedules to continuously improve contact centre performance.
When contact centre managers get up for work every morning, they supposedly know what their day is going to looks like. In practice, however, there are always surprises.
Contact centre management routines are essential for running an efficient and effective operation. Yet, for most of you, a routine is a distant hope.
“A Routine Day in the Contact Centre”
The statement “a routine day in the contact centre” usually reflects a day on which everything happens, including unexpected events that you suddenly find out about through the customers. There are also situations which require reconsideration of decisions, constant risk management and so forth.
In most contact centres, this is what routine looks like!
If you love your job, it will likely be thanks to these characteristics – the pressure, the energy and the need to always keep your finger on the pulse. Yet there will be moments when it feels too much.
The Three Improvements
Each of the following ideas is accompanied by a common sentence that you may have heard from your team, in order to emphasise the benefit of implementing each routine.
Also, remember that a routine is a routine, so these ideas need to be implemented on a full-time basis in order for the contact centre to realise the full benefits.
1. Develop an “Unplanned Routine”
“You cannot really manage a schedule with all of these unplanned occurrences.”
Is that so?!
Yes, there are many unplanned events and situations that are impossible to prepare for. Some of these you have already experienced enough to foresee in advance, while others manage to surprise you time and again.
Schedule times in your day, preferably around peak hours, to fire-fight, i.e. create an “unplanned routine”.
When this is the case, tasks are postponed from one day to the next and there is already a pile of those which you have forgotten about and that you need to deal with… sound familiar?
So, how can you introduce a routine that will help prepare you for the unforeseen issues? The answer is to schedule times in your day, preferably around peak hours, to fire-fight, i.e. create an “unplanned routine”.
For other tips on how to deal with the unexpected, read this article on 10 Essential Skills for Every Contact Centre Manager
How Best to Implement an “Unplanned Routine”
Implementing an unplanned routine indicates that you recognise that your schedule must be flexible enough to be able to meet all of the management tasks.
If you have not been working with an organised schedule up to now, it is definitely time to start. And, if you have been, but you still find it hard to meet all of the time-limited tasks, this is the routine for you.
An unplanned routine in the management of the contact centre is a routine which includes fixed time-slots in the schedule during which you do not perform any predetermined tasks, but are free to cope with the ongoing events.
Remember, this is not time for emails, nor is it time for meetings. Instead, this is the regular time during which most of the problems usually arise, and you, without knowing what the issue is, are ready, free and available to provide a managerial response.
But in practice, how can you go about creating an unplanned routine?
Here are four steps that will help you do so.
Step 1 – Examine when the main peak hours during the day are. Once you know this, define the periods of time in your schedule for which you plan to fire-fight.
Step 2 – Manage your calendar such that these hours will be blocked and you cannot be invited to a meeting during those hours.
Step 3 – We recommend to also talk to your direct manager (i.e. your boss) and explain that these are times in which your presence in various meetings comes at the expense of the contact centre’s operation, and therefore should be avoided as much as possible.
Step 4 – During the time-slots which you determined, go around the contact centre – be on the floor! Things will reach you even before the fire breaks out! Give an immediate response, follow up on the team’s functioning and make sure that the managerial team reporting to you indeed meets all of its tasks.
In other words, make “the unplanned” a routine!
In this way, you will slowly be able to reduce all of these cases which suddenly arrive and require special, complex and lengthy treatment.
By doing so, you will also make clear to the rest of the team when you are not available – meaning that you can go about your other tasks without the risk of distraction.
2. Implement an Open-Door Routine
“This is how it is, whoever shouts loudest gets attention first.”
We know that the natural tendency of managers at the contact centres is to seek the fire and act to extinguish it as soon as possible. This is part of the daily reality. However, there are situations in which the immediate response generates more harm than benefit.
By implementing an open-door policy in your contact centre, you can proactively engage with the team and promote two-way communication, as everyone feels confident coming forward with their questions.
How Best to Implement an Open-Door Routine
An open-door routine is part of a management policy that allows the contact centre team to transparently approach the management team and the contact centre manager as they wish.
This expression is uttered by many managers. However, in practice, when you are in between meetings and gatherings, briefings and analyses – do you really have time and availability for the advisors?
When you do talk to an advisor, do not allow it to happen after a “drama” in the contact centre, as the message relayed to the entire team is that indeed – “this is how it is, whoever shouts loudest, gets attention first.”
You need genuinely to make the open-door routine so that it is not impacted by “drama management” throughout the day.
Here are a few ideas to help with your implementation.
Set regular and routine open-door days – While the effectiveness of this option will depend on the size of the contact centre, the dates should be consistent with a day of the week with lower than average contact volumes, so that the advisors can really use it and you can be available to listen.
Issue an official email and notice – This email can be sent to each member of the team regarding the next day and hours during which your office door will really be open, and wait for them.
Define time-slots of 15-20 minutes – Is the contact centre team too large to allow everyone to arrive at the same time? Ask advisors, through the team leaders, to email in advance and book a time, keeping this issue under control.
If you already have an open-door policy (and stick by it!) consider asking all senior managers to go out and speak to a member of the team that they would not usually speak with at the start of every day. This can be a great way of boosting team cohesion.
3. Create a Control and Monitoring Routine
“A new procedure is issued here every day, they will probably forget about it tomorrow.”
These kinds of statements are not expressed only by advisors. Many managers, at different levels, can empathise with this statement and use it often.
You sat down, gave it thought, planned it and brought a procedure to the floor, aiming to develop and promote the work processes in the contact centre. Only a few know of the work behind the scenes – the time, energy and thought invested. Most people only know that there is a “new procedure” and that is where it ends.
The procedure is announced to the team during a briefing, but it will often dissipate and operations will carry on as normal, and the team will slip back into routine. Sound familiar?
If this does indeed sound familiar, it is likely that you need to set aside time to routinely control and monitor new procedures to ensure that the contact centre is continuously improving.
How to Implement a Control and Monitoring Routine
Learn from the experience of many managers who invest extensively in the building of work processes but eventually see them not being used in the current operations.
Attribute the appropriate respect to your resource investment and fulfil a significant part of your role in contact centre management by consistently performing control as a routine.
That is easier said than done, right?
To help, here are four steps to help you on you way.
Step 1 – On the introduction of a new procedure to the floor, ask a team leader or a senior advisor, who may want a little more responsibility, to provide you with a quick update of the impact it’s having on the contact centre floor.
Step 2 – Do not stop there! Define the desired results which you will follow up – be as precise and clear as possible. Refining the desired result will help the entire team to get on board, to the benefit of actual implementation.
Step 3 – Set regular times in the schedule for control. During these times, stop everything and make sure the procedure is indeed being implemented on the floor, according to the results that you defined.
Step 4 – Speak to the team and gather their thoughts on the procedure, even in an incidental conversation. Keep your finger on the pulse; that is a key duty of every manager.
Many contact centre managers have been promoted from other positions within the contact centre and will carry on by following the lead of their predecessor and be drawn into constant “fire-fighting”.
However, implementing new processes is key to the contact centre’s progress, and to some extent the wider organisation’s growth. So, it’s important to set aside routine times to put all of your focus on ensuring these procedures are implemented to the best possible standard.
Orit Avital
The work of a contact centre manager includes many routines which we implement for the continuing benefit of everyone in the contact centre.
Not all of these routines are simple to implement, but they help to ensure advisors are engaged and that our schedules are flexible enough so that the contact centre continuously improves.
While you may already have implemented at least one of these routines in the contact centre, let’s hope there’s something here for you to put into action tomorrow morning.
Thanks to Orit Avital at Ottorita for sharing this article with us.
For more from Orit, you can read some of her other articles:
5 Ways to Retain Advisors Using the Same Tools as Customer Retention
Reduce Attrition by Creating a Contact Centre Orientation Plan
Published On: 16th Jan 2019 - Last modified: 26th Mar 2020
Read more about - Call Centre Management, Scheduling, Team Management
10 Essential Skills for Every Contact Centre Manager
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18 Workforce Management Case Studies
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61 Top Tips for Workforce Management Technology
What Are the Industry Standards for Call Centre Metrics?
Which KPIs Do I Need for Contact Centre WFM?
How to Calculate Contact Centre Service Level
What Is an Acceptable Contact Centre Waiting Time?
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Imaging Fire
You have built a bridge thinner than hair
For your servants to go through
If you are brave enough o!
God, you pass through.
(Kaygusuz Abdal)
Is it ‘God’ that initiated the journey of the universe? Is it a favor to its subjects? What is human’s share in this favor? Nothing! Human’s existence has been seen as temporary. God’s being the only concept to endure its sovereignty has been constructed perfectly now and always. O human! Then what is your share in this life? What? The human who is afraid of itself had to create a sublime power. Because on the other path, its own voice would turn back to smack. Such a thin bridge has been built, whereas who dares to cross! But regardless, eventually, it will be crossed. After all, the human constructed that bridge. This means human’s restrictor has always been human. What if we consider this bridge as such: A universe; from its stone to rock, hill to mountain, the sky to dirt, tree to water, sun to all living including human; a bridge where all are ‘one’. A bridge, which conjoins all, renders all as ‘one’. The human who wants to perceive and feel this unity, beyond trying to cross this bridge; within the wind lets the journey of maturity to enable itself to find the balance. Universe’s ‘creation’ fabrication and all other human constructions proceeded upon this, start opening incisions in human’s rib with a two-ended sword. One end heads downward, other upward: One targets the mind, other sexuality. Against these targets, a spontaneous resistance comes to life. Because human actually only wants to hear itself. But scare of will has been assured. Now, in order to let go and hear its own voice, it has to release its fist! Constructed daggers were stabbed to guiding signs. Just like the human, fists start screaming by fastening their fingers, finding their strength from dirt, from the tree, from fire, from transparent glass, from cold iron that stands in front of it like a barrier. This scream is not a resistance against the wind on the thin bridge, but it is the perception of the wholeness of the wind within its own body. Because the wind of the universe is actually your own voice. It is the voice of life within the human, which is searching for the truth. Only you need to want to hear it.
© Ceren Selmanpakoğlu, 2021
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About CESA
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CESA > Blog > Solar Insights from the 2016 RPS Summit
Solar Insights from the 2016 RPS Summit
Over the past decade, state Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPSs) have been one of the most effective ways to advance solar and other clean energy technologies at the state level. Twenty-nine states plus the District of Columbia have RPS policies, which require utilities and other electricity suppliers to procure a specified portion of their electricity supply from renewable energy. The Clean Energy States Alliance (CESA) has worked with many of the RPS program managers as part of the RPS Collaborative.
The renewable energy challenges and opportunities that each state faces are unique, based on different goals, geographies, renewable energy resources, economies, and population densities – but there are many similar challenges and much to be gained from sharing experiences and lessons from state to state.
This kind of information sharing is the goal of the annual RPS Summit, which took place from November 30th to December 1st, 2016. RPS administrators from 22 states attended this year’s Summit, as did renewable energy certificate (REC) tracking system administrators, RPS analysts, representatives from national energy labs, federal officials, and other stakeholders. In total, the Summit included over 100 people with a wide range of interests and perspectives on RPSs for an invigorating and educational two days of presentations, panels, group discussions and networking.
Representatives from many states presented updates on their RPS programs. In Massachusetts, for example, a solar carve out, which mandates a certain amount of solar generation be used for the RPS, has, in combination with other factors, increased solar deployment so successfully that the state met its first goal (450 MW by 2017) three years early, and its second goal (1600 MW by 2020) two years early. The challenge now is to maintain solar growth while making solar incentives more cost effective to implement and lowering ratepayer costs, along with various other program improvement objectives. At the Summit, Kaitlin Kelly of the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources described the state’s proposed next generation solar incentive program.
Meanwhile in Washington, DC, an ambitious solar carve out has proved to be a both a challenge and a leadership opportunity. DC is small and densely populated, which means that there is limited space for large-scale solar arrays. DC does, however, have ample rooftop space. To support rooftop solar deployment, DC produced one of the most sophisticated solar maps in the country, allowing users to figure out if solar is right for their building and demonstrating that DC has many rooftops suitable for solar.
A critical challenge discussed in many break out groups and presentations was how to ensure that low-income households are able to access the benefits of solar power. One solution is community shared solar, which allows renters and others who do not have adequate roofs for solar panels to experience the rate savings from solar. As indicated in a presentation by the Smart Electric Power Alliance, 14 states plus DC have enacted policies to support community solar development. Many other low-income solar models are also being implemented across the country.
The 2016 RPS Summit included many other presentation and discussion topics related to solar. Links to most presentation slides are available on the CESA website at www.cesa.org.
This article was originally published on NREL’s Solar Technical Assistance Team (STAT) Blog. Read the original post here.
This article was also published in Renewable Energy World.
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Samantha Donalds
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How corporate governance factors can influence financial performance
Author: George Serafeim, Daniel Rourke, Hellen Mbugua, and Christina Rehnberg
New research reveals that corporate governance factors can be positively linked to financial performance.
Calvert examined how 10 governance factors, ranging from accounting risk to shareholder rights, materially affected financial performance of more than 8,500 companies in 72 countries.
It found that the impact the factors had on corporate performance differed depending on the relative strength of governance practices and rules in its country of domicile.
The research offers guidance for investors in assessing the impact of governance factors in four country “clusters”: Strong practices/strong rules; strong practices/weak rules; weak practices/strong rules; weak practices/weak rules.
Corporate governance assessments are an integral part of company research, because they can be an indicator of how well a company identifies material environmental and social factors and manages associated risks and opportunities. Identifying those issues can be the first step in mitigating risk or unlocking long-term value.
However, incorporating governance information into investment decision-making poses challenges. There is an abundance of publicly available data, including measures of board and committee independence, director equity policies, internal pay equity, director elections and shareholder rights to convene meetings. But there is little clarity on which of those measures may be linked to performance, or the impact the rules and practices of different countries may have on those links. The latter is especially relevant as responsible investing becomes an increasingly global phenomenon.
Our previous research suggested that this is a fertile area for study. For example, historically, we have stressed the importance of board diversity when making investment decisions because of the link we found between this factor and corporate performance. This insight suggested that it would be fruitful to look for other differentiating factors in corporate governance.
The research summarized in this paper is designed to improve our understanding of the link between governance factors and performance. We believe it can provide meaningful insights when making investment and engagement decisions.
Corporate governance is the overarching framework that sets the direction of a business, including its purpose, goals and strategy. A company’s governance structure determines who has the legal power to make decisions within the business and how that power is checked and balanced, including the consideration of stakeholder interests.
Our research found that certain factors within a company’s governance structure are linked to corporate performance. However, as we discuss more fully below, the strength of the links varied, depending on both corporate practices and country-level rules within a given country. Our analysis showed that the state of corporate governance in the universe of 72 countries examined could best be categorized in four clusters:
Strong corporate practices/strong country rules
Strong corporate practices/weak country rules
Weak corporate practices/strong country rules
Weak corporate practices/weak country rules
To assign a country to its proper cluster among the four described above, we evaluated its strength along two proprietary indexes for measuring governance:
A practices index designed to classify overall governance practices as “strong” or “weak” based on a bottom-up survey of companies with each country. We examined more than 8,500 companies within 72 countries in the MSCI database, across a range of about 100 metrics applicable to 10 broad governance factors (e.g., board effectiveness, accounting risk, pay figures, etc.). Every company received a grade on each factor and we assessed those factor grades at the country-level to assign “strong” or “weak” designations for practices.
A rules index designed to classify a country’s overall governance rules as “strong” or “weak,” based on a top-down survey of its laws, exchange listing requirements and corporate governance codes. We examined 58 countries and used OECD data across a range of about 70 metrics (e.g., board effectiveness, audit oversight, pay figures, etc.). Each governance rules metric received a grade, and we used the aggregate of those scores to assign each country a “strong” or “weak” designation for rules.
Sources: Calvert Research and Management, OECD Factbook 2017, MSCI, as of September 2019.
A universe of 72 countries in the MSCI database was narrowed to 58 that have OECD Factbook or equivalent data; this was reduced to 49 by including only countries with five or more companies.
Next, we looked at 10 governance factors to determine their relationship between financial performance of all of the companies in the 49 countries. The factors were:
1. Accounting Risk 6. Pay Figures
2. Audit Oversight 7. Pay oversight
3. Board Effectiveness 8. Pay Performance Alignment
4. Board Independence 9. Ownership Structure
5. Director Elections 10. Shareholder Rights
For each company in the 49-country universe, we regressed these factors on return on assets (ROA), return on invested capital (ROIC), natural log of price-to-equity ratio (P/E) and the natural log of price-to-book ratio (P/B), controlling for country, market capitalization and industry classification.
By aligning the results of these regression analyses within their countries, in their respective clusters, we could identify which governance factors had the most impact on performance of companies with each quadrant. For example, if a factor like board effectiveness showed a significant positive relationship with performance in countries with strong practices and strong rules, would that also be the case in countries with weak practices and weak rules? Or which, if any, of the factors were material across the most clusters?
Exhibit B provides an overview of the material issues we found within each of the four clusters, along with the five largest countries in each cluster, by total market capitalization of listed equities. Within each cluster, we found two to five governance factors to be financially material, with accounting risk and ownership structure most broadly represented across countries.
Source: Calvert Research and Management, August 2020.
The above classifications are for illustrative purposes and represent the five largest countries by market capitalization in each classification; in total, we classified 49 countries for this research.
*To correct for an observed North American bias in disclosure data, companies in the US and Canada are separated from their clusters to calculate scores. Our materiality assessment remains the same.
Broadly material factors
Accounting risk and ownership structure are gateway factors in most countries.
Accounting risk and ownership structure were both found to be material in three of four of our country clusters. As such, we consider these “gateway factors” for investors in almost any country, with a few notable exceptions discussed below.
In some ways, the finding that accounting risk and ownership structure are broadly material is intuitive. Weak performance on either measure would be a flag for most investors. For example, our measure of accounting risk identifies companies for anomalies in financial reporting, e.g., revenues, expenses and asset-liability valuations. These anomalies can signal problems with how a business is run or indicate if there are potential problems with internal controls. Similarly, weak performance on the ownership structure composite can be an indication of imbalances between share ownership and decision-making power. These imbalances may pose a risk for minority shareholders, who often have limited control or recourse.
Basic governance factors
Board independence, pay figures and shareholder rights are basic measures of governance performance that emerge as material factors in both “weak practices” clusters. For instance, in “weak practices/strong rules” jurisdictions, the governance basics of board independence and shareholder rights are material to corporate performance, in addition to the gateway factors of accounting risk and ownership structure. These are markets where getting the basics right can make a difference in corporate performance.
In “weak practices/weak rules” jurisdictions, the basic issue of pay figures is material to corporate performance, in addition to the gateway factor of ownership structure. In these markets, policymakers have not yet responded to weak practices by strengthening rules. Consequently, without adequate rules, enforcement can become a moot point.
Quality governance factors
Strong practices markets allow for further investor differentiation by quality governance.
In “‘strong practices/strong rules” jurisdictions, the advanced governance quality factors of board effectiveness and pay performance alignment are material, in addition to the gateway factor of accounting risk. These are highly professional markets where board and pay basics are largely ironed out and quality separates the leaders from the laggards.
“Strong practices/weak rules” jurisdictions are highly-professional markets with strong customs, but the absence of adequate enforcement creates challenges in and around executive pay. From a performance perspective, investors should consider how pay decisions are governed, whether a company is transparent about internal pay equity, and whether the CEO pay makes sense for the size and performance of the business.
Conclusion and further research
The country-level cluster classifications outlined in this paper serve as a foundation for further research that investigates the relationship between corporate governance and financial performance. Given the amount of publicly available information on the governance topic, this research guides company-level assessments toward those factors that are financially material depending upon where a company is domiciled. We think these findings can empower the broader investment community to more meaningfully integrate corporate governance assessments into investment and engagement decisions.
Hellen Mbugua is Vice-President, Senior ESG Research Analyst Calvert Research and Management
Daniel Rourke is vice president, senior ESG research analyst Calvert Research and Management
Christina Rehnberg is a senior associate at KKS Advisors
George Serafeim is the Charles M. Williams Professor of Business Administration at Harvard Business School
Dec 2020 » Opinion
Asset managers need to communicate better
Let's talk about me
Dec 2020 » Asset management
Chinese investment management: the promises and pitfalls for international investment managers
Is now the time for international investment managers to address their China strategy?
Nov 2020 » Gender Diversity
Good practice for gender advocates in asset management
Will 2020 be a watershed year for diversity in the workplace?
Nov 2020 » Opinion
Winner of CFA UK and Brandes Essay competition 2020
Masahiro Onizuka, CFA, won the CFA UK and Brandes Essay Competition in 2020. Read his winning essay in which Onizuka attempts to answer: Is there now 'value' in value investing?
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(-) Podcast
The History of U.S. Isolationism, With Charles A. Kupchan
Charles A. Kupchan, CFR senior fellow and professor of international affairs at Georgetown University, sits down with James M. Lindsay to discuss the long history of American efforts to avoid foreign…
Podcast by James M. Lindsay and Charles A. Kupchan The President's Inbox
The U.S.-Australia Relationship, With Charles Edel and John Lee
Charles Edel and John Lee, senior fellows at the University of Sydney’s United States Studies Centre, sit down with James M. Lindsay to discuss the state of the U.S.-Australia alliance. Edel and Lee …
Podcast by James M. Lindsay, Charles Edel, and John Lee The President's Inbox
The One Where We Talk About NATO at a Party
You’re making the rounds at a party when someone asks you about NATO. Is it still important? The alliance is credited with preventing a third world war, but a lot of us don’t know what it is or how i…
Podcast by Gabrielle Sierra, Charles A. Kupchan, and Alina Polyakova Why It Matters
Energy and Climate Policy
Leaving the Paris Climate Agreement
CFR's Charles Kupchan and Michael Levi join Robert McMahon to analyze the impact of the U.S. withdrawing from the Paris climate agreement.
Podcast by Robert McMahon, Charles A. Kupchan, and Michael A. Levi The President's Inbox
U.S.-EU Relations
CFR's Robert McMahon and Charles A. Kupchan examine President Donald J. Trump's priorities on Europe.
Podcast by Robert McMahon and Charles A. Kupchan The President's Inbox
The World Next Week: May 14, 2015
The UN World Health Assembly meets in Geneva; the UN Security Council debates Yemen; and Prince Charles visits Ireland.
Podcast by James M. Lindsay and Robert McMahon The World Next Week
Charles A. Kupchan
David J. Scheffer
Visiting Senior Fellow
Henri J. Barkey
Adjunct Senior Fellow for Middle East Studies
Thomas J. Bollyky
Senior Fellow for Global Health, Economics, and Development and Director of the Global Health Program
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The Importance of Sitemaps
Connectica • July 20, 2018 • SEO Tips
A sitemap (literally a map to your site) is an important addition to your website and can significantly help increase your site’s reach and visibility. If you’re looking to increase your traffic, a sitemap could be the tool to do that.
What Is A Sitemap?
It is a virtual road map that lists the pages of a website. There are three types of sitemaps:
Those that are used during the planning of a website by developers
Listings of the pages on a site that are man-made
Structure listings which are created for web crawlers, such as search engines
The third type, also known as sitemap.xml file, holds the most importance as a sitemap for traffic and Search Engine Optimization (SEO). It tells Google and other search engines how your site content is organized. Web crawlers use this file to better navigate your site. It can also improve the crawlability of your site, especially if it is very large, as new or recently updated pages may be overlooked. Additionally, if your site has a large archive of isolated pages that are not linked or don’t reference each other, a sitemap can help ensure those pages are not overlooked. Another instance where this virtual road map comes in handy is if your site is new and has few external links to it or if your site uses rich media content. Web crawlers search the web by following links, if there aren’t many links, search engines might not find your page. A sitemap can help with this.
What Information Does A Sitemap Provide?
Basically put, it provides the link between the website and the search engine, keeping it connected and searchable. A good map will provide more accurate search results when a user is searching for keywords or key terms. They also provide valuable metadata that is associated with the pages listed in them. Metadata refers to the information about the webpage. This includes:
When the page was last updated
How frequently the page is changed
The importance of the page relative to other URLs in the site
They can also be used to provide the search engine with metadata about types of content on the page, like video and image content, such as:
A sitemap video entry can list how long the video runs for, the age restriction and its genre
A sitemap image entry can list the license of the image, what it is about and its description
What Is Their Format?
Sitemaps can be a list of pages that is hierarchical ordered by its topic, a document that details instructions to search engine crawlers or in the form of a chart. Google specifically supports different formats. According to Google Support: “the format limits a single map to 50MB uncompressed and 50,000 URLs. In instances where you have a larger file or more URLs, you are required to break your list into multiple sitemaps. You can create a sitemap index file (which is a file that points to a list of sitemaps), and submit it to Google. It’s possible to submit multiple sitemaps and sitemap index files”.
How Do You Build A Sitemap?
Choose which pages on your site should be navigated by search engines
Choose which format works for you- you have the option to create one manually or select one from third-party sitemap generator tools which can create one for you
Use the Search Console Sitemaps testing tool to try and test your sitemap
Add it to your robots.txt file (which makes it available to Google). Alternatively, you can submit it to the Search Console.
A sitemap is the best way to drive more traffic to your site. By informing search engines of your site’s presence, they’re able to alert potential customers, meaning that your reach as a business extends further online.
The Importance of Video SEO
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PREV Top Tips To Build A Website
Keyword Cannibalization NEXT
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Crowe covering the ground in double election bid
Published on 26/12/2018 in Home/News by clareecho1
A Fianna Fáil candidate for both the General and Local elections plus a recent new arrival for he and his wife means Cllr Cathal Crowe is set for a busy few months.
Speaking to The Clare Echo before his party leader, Micheál Martin renewed the Confidence and Supply agreement with Fine Gael until 2020 meaning there will be no General Election until then, Cllr Crowe outlined the benefits of running two campaigns at once and how he would handle negotiations with Fine Gael.
“Fighting two campaigns in a sport analogy it might be a drain on a team to be doing well in two competitions but I think politically it can be a good thing because I’m already out on doors and it makes sense. I don’t know which election will come first but I’ll be ready for both and I really have fire in the belly and I’m ready to roll. I do a lot of canvassing in between elections so I hope to have the ground well covered for the locals and the General whichever comes first”.
“I hope that the negotiations with Fine Gael will come down to the red line issues and if those red line issues aren’t met I think Fianna Fáil should be pulling the plug, that’s a personal view I hold”.
He has contested three local elections and topped the poll in two of these, while Crowe admits it is nice to be elected first, his main priority is a successful outcome. “My aim is to win a seat whatever way it comes. It’s flattering to get a high vote but I think I worked damn hard for that vote, at the end of the day it’s only a one day flattery once you take your seat in the Chamber it’s soon forgotten who polled top and who polled bottom, it’s all about getting back in there and continuing the work for the people that put you in there. I do love what I do, I take a great pride in it, it’s an honour to represent my local community and hopefully my county and I give it hammer and tongs, I become a bit obsessive about it in fact. Since getting selected for the Dáil conventions I’ve been out nearly every second night and those who have followed my campaign in 2004 know I quite literally burnt shoe leather, I will give everything to both campaigns and the public can rest assured that the issues they give me on the doorsteps will be solved rapidly. I’ve taken on a secretary in the last three weeks, I mean business and I want to ensure that I give top class representation to the people that engage with me”.
Both he and Cllr Pat McMahon will represent the party in the Shannon Municipal District but he is of the view than an extra candidate should be put on the ticket. “We’re all ambitious, personally and for the party and everyone in their speech would have given mention to that, we all fully expect there will be a third candidate and I think it warrants a third candidate given the population and our ambitions to win a seat. We need a good candidate placed around the Shannon area ideally”.
How a councillor can combine their political role with another full-time position is a criticism that has been levelled at Cathal who is also a primary school teacher at Parteen N.S. and it is one that annoys him. “I manage successfully and I know some people try to level that criticism on people who mix a job with a council career but I think the real litmus test is how do those people I being one of them get by with the electorate and the reality is I’ve been elected three times over and I’ve topped the poll on two of those three occasions. It’s a case of being a very efficient hard worker, my school day ends at 2:40pm and they are two entirely separate worlds. For the first five hours of the day I’m out kicking football with the kids, I’m teaching Irish, teaching about history, teaching polkas on the tin whistle and then shortly afterwards I change into a shirt and tie and head off to Council meetings, I’ve done it successfully for fourteen years and I will continue to do it as a councillor. If I’m elected to the Dáil I won’t be able to do that I will have to resign, it is definitely possible it just means you have to have an understanding family and be efficient. I think councillors who criticise it should really reflect, I would never comment on another councillor’s predicament but they should really look at how is the electorate receiving it and the reality is those of us who juggle a job and a council career we are being elected and re-elected”.
In 2004, the Meelick man became the youngest representative on Clare County Council at the age of 21. Fourteen years later, he is still the youngest. He suggested ways to inject youth into politics at a local level. “First of all political parties aren’t attracting in younger members, I’m going to Fianna Fáil meetings throughout the county and we know ourselves that there is not a whole lot of young people coming into those meetings and I know from talking to Fine Gael colleagues and other parties that they find it the very same.
“It has to evolve from a grassroots basis and I would think first of all, it needs to be a viable career for someone. There are certain barriers to being a councillor that make it unattractive to people, take for example a female councillor, there is no maternity leave so it’s not the friendliest careers in terms of starting a family, the illness benefits aren’t great if you take a poor turn of health, a lot of councillors find if they have a young family or a mortgage to pay the councilling can fall a long way short of meeting a family’s living needs.
He continued, “There are several things that need to be addressed but I think young people are political, they’re interested but it is a different thing wanting to serve, it’s a fascinating world and the most special thing about the job is the people we meet, on a typical week I’d be dealing with homeless people, people coming in from the Congo and live in the local refugee centre in Meelick, millionaires who have an interest in investing in the locality, people who are trying to go back to education, single mothers, young people who want to get registered to vote, it’s the variety of it that is the spice of it all and I would encourage any young person to give some consideration to it. Education as a teacher more schools should be inviting in local representatives to talk for CSPE and SPHE lessons to give a flavour, politicians often get the bad wrap and there’s jibes made about us but I take immense pride in what I do day in day out, I’m not a perfect politician but I’ve yet to meet a perfect politician but I try my damnedest and I hope to do this for another five year term if elected to the Council or to the Dáil whichever comes first”.
Tags: #LE19Cllr Cathal CroweCllr mary howardCllr Pat McMahonFianna failMeelickMichéal MartinParteenShannon Municipal District
Extension of winter maintenance programme to cover Clonmoney school rejected
An extension of the winter maintenance programme to include a section of road approaching a Newmarket-on-Fergus
Lack of sight lines on approach to Illaunamanagh Graveyard & Crematorium highlighted
A safer design at the entrance of one of Shannon’s biggest graveyards and crematoriums has been
Locals ‘incensed’ at lack of progress for safety measures at ‘Ireland’s most dangerous road junction’
Motorists and homeowners in Newmarket-on-Fergus are “incensed” over the lack of progress made at a road
clareecho1
Listen now: No really, what’s the matter with America
Walks for all – Nordic Fitness Ireland
ON THE FARM: Healthy animals leads to healthy food which makes healthy people
REBECCA O’NEILL: Setting goals for 2021
Previous Story Previous post: Doyle wants to inject pace & fresh blood into Council
Next Story Next post: Site purchased for new Kilrush school
Latest from Home
30 new cases of COVID-19 in Clare as country records 93 additional deaths
An additional 30 persons in Co Clare have been diagnosed with COVID-19
An ESB sub-station located in Ennis has been equated with a scene
Review sought of Clare’s underage hurling teams
Clare’s underage hurling teams are not matching their football counterparts, an East
Gardaí are seeking the assistance of the public tracing the whereabouts of
An extension of the winter maintenance programme to include a section of
An extension of the winter maintenance programme to include a
A safer design at the entrance of one of Shannon’s
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Start Codon and TTP announce partnership
TTP plc to support life science and healthcare start-ups through partnership with Start Codon
TTP will provide entrepreneurs with mentoring and tech consultancy, to accelerate product development and commercialisation
Agreement underlines TTP’s commitment to sharing knowledge and experience with innovative start-ups
TTP to deliver virtual seminar on 17 September as part of Start Codon and Cancer Research UK’s Entrepreneurial Training Scheme
TTP plc (TTP), a leading independent technology and product development company, has today announced a new partnership with Start Codon, the life science and healthcare business accelerator. The collaboration aims to strengthen Start Codon’s support for life science and healthcare start-ups, with TTP providing technical consultancy and advice, leveraging TTP’s expertise to fast-track technology development and commercialisation. As part of the agreement, TTP will be delivering a virtual seminar on 17 September focussing on product development and commercialisation, as part of Start Codon and Cancer Research UK’s Entrepreneurial Training Scheme.
Start Codon aims to identify and recruit high-potential life science and healthcare companies from across the UK and beyond, provide seed-funding, and leveraging the world-class resources of the Cambridge Cluster to reduce risk and prepare for a successful Series A fundraise. Under the terms of the partnership, Start Codon cohort companies will receive technology consultancy from TTP via one-to-one meetings and networking events throughout Start Codon’s six month ‘programme cycles.’ Both partners have committed to using their complementary networks and knowledge-base to co-host conferences and talks. Start Codon will promote TTP to their portfolio, thus helping TTP to connect with potential collaborators.
Dr Michelle Griffin, Clinical Innovator at TTP, said: “We are delighted to be working with Start Codon to help support their talented network. This partnership allows Start Codon and its cohort companies to tap into our experience in developing products and services that deliver recurrent successful clinical, scientific and financial outcomes.”
Dr Jason Mellad, CEO of Start Codon, said:
Product development plays a critical role in the growth of new companies. Having insight from TTP – who are recognised thought-leaders and experts in the life science and healthcare space – will strengthen our programme offering from this perspective, so we can help more companies translate their innovations into the clinic.
Early stage start-up companies in the life sciences and healthcare space are invited to apply to the Start Codon accelerator programme
For further information on the Entrepreneurial Training Scheme, please visit Start Codon
Read the full press release here
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Over £7m of social value generated by the Coalfields Community Investment Programme
The Coalfields Community Investment Programme (CCIP), our solution to helping community and voluntary organisations from across England’s 30% most deprived former mining areas combat a lack of resources, has made an incredible impact.
With a focus on improving health and wellbeing, skills and employment, 55 different organisations were awarded grants of up to £10,000 from our funding pot of £500,000.
The money donated reached 5,889 beneficiaries – and made a difference through 1,372 people gaining increased confidence and skills, 134 finding work, 365 people getting active through regular sporting activity and more.
Through Value Insight, a tool which allows you to measure the success of a social intervention by how much it increases people’s wellbeing, we calculated a return of £7,601,616 of people’s wellbeing. That means that for every £1 invested by the ourselves into the CCIP programme, we now generate £11.20 in social value.
Alongside the funding grants offered, communities are also able to gain free support though the CCIP Practical Support service which offers invaluable help such as organisational support, remote and face to face meetings with a critical friend, and help acquiring funding from any funder.
Up to now, there are 318 members signed up for Practical Support, and 98% of them report being satisfied with the help they’ve received.
Take a look at our new report below to see the full impact the Coalfields Community Investment Programme has had across the coalfields, and also find out how you can apply for funding now through the Covid-19 Recovery and Resilience Fund.
Coalfields Regeneration Trust’s ‘Game On’ sport for change initiative launches Scottish activities 16th December 2020
Coalfields Regeneration Trust awards £5,000 grant to Benarty Imagination Library 2nd December 2020
National Coalfields Day 29th November 2020
More Support Needed for Former Mining Communities on National Coalfields Day 27th November 2020
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Typhoid News
Select Date Month January February March April May June July August September October November December Year 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Africa Asia Caribbean Europe Middle East North America Oceania South America
Fiji reports typhoid clusters on Vanua Levu
Outbreak News Today
The Fiji Ministry of Health is reporting at least 10 cases of typhoid fever on the island of Vanua Levu
The cases were reported in the provinces of Cakaudrove and Macuata
Avoid Any Unnecessary Movement, Rainima Warns On Typhoid
There are six confirmed cases of typhoid in the Northern Division
Cases from a non-red spot area were because there had been a lot of movement from place to places during the festive season
Anti-typhoid Staff Trained To Monitor The Drive From Feb 1
UrduPoint
Around 226 area Incharges have been trained with the coordinated efforts of UNICEF to monitor the two-week-long anti-typhoid vaccination campaign that would be launched in urban areas of district from February 1 to 15
Over 18,76,539 children from nine months to 15 years of age would be vaccinated under the Typhoid Prevention Campaign
TC Yasa: Typhoid cases emerge
The Fiji Times
Movement of people into cyclone-affected areas is being discouraged after two reports of typhoid cases on Vanua Levu
Though these cases are not related to STC Yasa, Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr Ifereimi Waqainabete believes preventative measures should be followed to prevent any outbreaks
Graphic Era University’s Technology For Screening Typhoid Gets Government Patent
NTDV Education
The Government of India has registered a patent for the invention of a technology to screen typhoid
The invention provides a PCR-based diagnostic assay for detection of Typhoid-causing bacteria with higher sensitivity and specificity and is expected to screen Typhoid at a low cost
Neno typhoid outbreak
The Times Group Malawi
At least five people have died from typhoid fever in Neno District
Neno District Hospital spokesperson Caroline Banda said, apart from registering five cases of death, health officials recorded 56 cases of suspects
IVI-SK’s new typhoid conjugate vaccine meets primary endpoints in phase III study in Nepal
Vi-DT typhoid conjugate vaccine, developed jointly by the International Vaccine Institute (IVI) and SK bioscience, has met the primary endpoints in a phase III study in Nepal
This study is a significant milestone in an effort to license Vi-DT TCV
Covid fatalities on the rise; dengue, typhoid also spread tentacles
The Tribune India
Along with a steep hike in the number of Covid-19 cases, the cases of dengue and typhoid are also on the rise. The health experts have advised the people to take the necessary precautions and avoid visiting markets or other crowded public places
A considerable number of typhoid cases is being reported from Rohtak and nearby areas, though the record of the typhoid cases was not available with the local Health authorities
Typhoid fever strikes inmates at labor camp in N. Pyongan Province
Authorities at a forced labor camp in Dongrim County, North Pyongan Province, have recently suspended family visits and banned outside food from being sent into the camp after an outbreak of paratyphoid and typhoid fever among some of the facility’s inmates, Daily NK has learned
“In mid-September, more than 20 patients with paratyphoid and typhoid fever appeared at a forced labor camp in Dongrim County,” a source in North Pyongan Province told the Daily NK on Monday
“The Ministry of Social Security, provincial security bureau, county party committee and county Ministry of Social Security office helped mobilize the local anti-epidemic office and capable doctors to deal with the situation.”
Typhoid: Study confirms Vi-DT conjugate vaccine is safe and immunogenic in children 6-23 months
A new study conducted by IVI in collaboration with SK bioscience shows that single-dose and two-dose regimens of Vi-DT typhoid conjugate vaccine (TCV) are safe and immunogenic in children 6-23 months of age, a group with high rates of typhoid fever in resource-limited settings
The findings from this study newly published online in The Lancet’s EClinicalMedicine describe the successful completion and analysis of a Phase II clinical trial of Vi-DT six months after vaccination
Dying for a sip of clean water in Zimbabwe
August 29. 2020
In 2018, a twin cholera and typhoid outbreak hit Zimbabwe’s capital claimed 69 lives and over 10,000 people were affected by the diseases, highlighting the dangers of Harare’s dilapidated water-supply system
A municipal water system that was built to cater for 300 000 residents in the days of pre-independence Rhodesia must now meet the needs of 2,5 million people
Council contains typhoid, dysentery outbreak
BULAWAYO City Council (BCC) says it has contained the typhoid and dysentery outbreak that infected nearly 2 000 people and killed 13 in Luveve and surrounding suburbs recently
In June there was a diarrhoea outbreak in Luveve and surrounding areas which Government attributed to the 144-hour weekly water shedding exercise
Following the outbreak, Local Government and Public Works Minister July Moyo said human waste beyond the standards allowed by the Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ) contaminated water pipes in Luveve areas, triggering the water-borne diseases
Preschoolers, caregivers highly vulnerable to XDR typhoid
The News International
Preschoolers aged 3-5 are highly vulnerable to typhoid fever, including drug-resistant typhoid
In an advisory, the NIH, the country’s leading medical research centre, said typhoid fever was endemic in the country
The NIH said with the treatment options for typhoid becoming more limited, preventive measures, including improved sanitation and vaccination campaigns, were urgently needed
Typhoid fever in Nigeria not too common as believed — Commissioner
TheGuardian
The Commissioner for Health in Anambra, Dr Vincent Okpala, says Typhoid fever in Nigeria is not as common as it has been made to be
Okpala told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Awka on Monday that the Widal test used in the country to diagnose Typhoid fever would not give accurate diagnosis for the fever
He said there was need for renewed scrutiny and adherence to diagnosis guidelines by healthcare practitioners in the country
NIH issues advisory to control, treat typhoid
July 22. 2020
The National Institute of Health (NIH) has issued an advisory to all provincial health departments to take prevention and treatment measures to control typhoid fever during summer and monsoon season
Since the emergence of COVID-19, it has been observed that health care professionals are frequently prescribing azithromycin for the COVID-19 patients may develop resistance against azithromycin
Zimbabwe: Typhoid Outbreak in Harare’s Sunningdale Suburb
Harare’s Sunningdale suburb has been hit by a typhoid outbreak after recording nine cases
The cases were confirmed by Ward 10 Councillor Hammy Madzingira who attributed the outbreak to continuous sewer bursts in the surburb
Abbott partners with Babygogo to conduct survey on awareness around typhoid fever
Express Healthcare
Abbott partnered with Babygogo (part of the Sheroes Network), to conduct a nationwide survey across eight cities* to assess awareness around typhoid fever
There are higher levels of awareness for mandatory vaccines, ie., vaccines given in National Immunisation Programme of the country (NIP) such as rotavirus (82 per cent) compared to vaccines not given in NIP such as influensa (67 per cent) and typhoid (66 per cent)
After Covid-19, Typhoid rears head in K-P
The Express Tribune
June 23. 2020
The ongoing health crisis in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa appears to be compounded by the surge in Typhoid fever cases
Dr. Fazlur Rehman, who has served at a known testing facility, for more than two decades, said medical practitioners must urge patients to get a blood culture when symptoms surface
Typhoid fever, paratyphoid fever and the emergence of XDR typhoid fever
Typhoid fever and paratyphoid fever are clinically indistinguishable and produce the syndrome known as enteric fever
The recent development of large outbreaks (thousands of cases) of extensively drug-resistant (XDR) typhoid fever in Pakistan has complicated the approach to the treatment of typhoid fever
Typhoid conjugate vaccine safe, effective when administered with meningococcal A
Typhoid conjugate vaccine is safe and effective in children when given with meningococcal A vaccine as part of routine immunization
Findings were presented during the 2020 Virtual Annual Conference on Vaccinology Research sponsored by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases
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“Lawsuit Claims All Saints Catholic School Failed to Protect Student from Sexual Abuse in Classroom,” WPTV
School administration favored alleged abuser over 11-year-old girl because of family's donor status, suit says.
A lawsuit has been filed against All Saints Catholic School and the Diocese of Palm Beach, alleging that the school failed to protect an 11-year-old girl from repeated sexual abuse by another student in an unsupervised classroom on campus.
The lawsuit, filed Thursday in Palm Beach County circuit court, also names principal Jill Broz, claiming that she not only failed to protect the student, but engaged in a campaign of victim shaming that caused the child severe emotional distress.
Michael Dolce, an attorney for the plaintiff, summarized the actions of the school administration as "truly an abusive response."
"It's very important in the aftermath of any form of sexual trauma that a child experiences that the child receive appropriate support -- not victim blaming, not victim shaming, not exposure of her vulnerabilities after the fact," Dolce told WPTV in a Zoom interview. "It's critically important to recovery that the adults in the room respond in a very therapeutic, very supportive manner. That's not what these facts are going to show, in this case, occurred."
The complete article can be accessed here.
Michael Dolce
Takisha D. Richardson
Sexual Abuse, Sex Trafficking, and Domestic Violence Litigation
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Safello Partners with Jumio for Instant ID Verification
Pete Rizzo
May 16, 2014 at 9:00 a.m. UTC Updated Feb 4, 2019 at 10:19 p.m. UTC
Sweden-based bitcoin exchange Safello has announced a new partnership with payments validation and ID verification service provider Jumio in an effort to simplify its customer onboarding process.
Launched in March, Jumio’s Bitcoin Identity Security Open Network (BISON) provides consumers the ability to verify their identity by holding an ID in front of a camera or connected device. Data can then be extracted in real-time and used to quickly populate necessary enrollment forms.
Frank Schuil, CEO and co-founder of Safello, explained that the partnership will allow the exchange to better cater to consumers who want to buy or sell bitcoins quickly in the 11 countries it now serves, saying:
“We have optimised our platform for the quickest turnaround time as we don’t require such initial deposits, but instead execute the trade directly to the market.”
Schuil framed the new service as one that gives the bitcoin exchange an important value-add at a time when popular peer-to-peer exchanges have cumbersome deposit requirements.
With the news, Safello becomes one of the more notable bitcoin companies using Jumio’s BISON technology, joining a list that includes Canadian ATM provider BitAccess and digital currency trading platform CoinMkt.
Eye on Europe
Sara Lindqvist, Safello’s compliance officer, is enthusiastic about the partnership, noting that it will allow the company to better serve members of the European bitcoin community.
Lindqvist explained how Safello introduced a Mobile Bank ID verification method earlier this year, but that this upgrade was limited to the exchange’s Swedish customers:
“[Mobile Bank ID verification] significantly improved the conversion rate and our customers loved it. We set out to find an equally reliable and compliant solution for the rest of Europe and found Jumio to fit all of our requirements.”
Ambitious goals
Launched in July 2013, Safello has set its sights high with a number of ambitious announcements, raising $600,000 in funding in February and proclaiming in April that it intends to become “CoinBase for Europe”, comparing its efforts to the widely used US wallet and exchange.
Safello has also been active in other segments of the bitcoin industry – for example, in December, the company launched the first bitcoin ATM in Sweden.
The company’s CEO, also notably ran as a candidate in the most recent Bitcoin Foundation board member election, though he did not proceed to the final round of voting.
Identification image via Shutterstock
ExchangesEuropeSafelloJumioNews
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Ind vs Aus, 1st ODI: The Game Went All Day, Longest ODI Game I've Had, Says Smith
By IANS News
November 28, 2020 • 10:39 AM View: 1869
Australia batsman Steve Smith, who scored 105 off 66 balls in the first ODI to help Australia beat India, said that Friday's game was the longest that he has played in.
"The game went all day, longest 50-over game I've had, for sure. Don't know what to put that down to. Obviously, a few people came on to the field in India's innings and that took a bit of time. They (India) went 45 minutes overtime above schedule, we were similar. Don't know why; it certainly felt like a long time," Smith told reporters after the match at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Australia's innings was disrupted briefly after the sixth over when a couple of protesters invaded the pitch holding placards saying 'No $1B Adani Loan', referring to an Australian mining contract awarded to the Indian business tycoon.
It took a while before the security guards reacted and escorted the protesters out of the field as players and umpires stood around wondering what was happening. The invaders were protesters against Adani Group and held 'NO $1B ADANI LOAN' placards.
The front of the protesters' T-shirt read "#StopAdani", while at the back, the emblazoned words read: "Stop Coal. #StopAdani. Take Action."
According to Fox Sports, a group named 'Stop Adani' on Friday issued a press release, urging the State Bank of India not to approve a loan of $1 billion Australian dollars to Gautam Adani.
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TAGS India tour of Australia 2020-21 Steve Smtih
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Colorado Senate gives initial OK to…
Hunting guide from Littleton is fourth Coloradan arrested in connection with U.S. Capitol riot
Colorado Senate gives initial OK to stoned-driving limits
By John Ingold | The Denver Post
May 1, 2012 at 2:11 p.m.
The Colorado Senate Tuesday gave initial approval to a bill making it easier to convict people of driving while stoned, in the toughest test yet for the proposal.
The approval came by the slimmest of margins and only after the Senate had appeared to kill the bill on a voice vote. Using a procedural maneuver, bill sponsor Sen. Steve King, R-Grand Junction, revived the bill for a recorded vote. The bill passed that vote 18-17.
The bill still needs another, recorded vote in the Senate before going over to the House, where it will need at least another four OKs before it can go to the governor.
The measure, Senate Bill 117, would set a limit of THC — the psychoactive chemical in marijuana — in the blood above which it would be illegal to drive. King said numerous studies suggest that the large majority of people with more than 5 nanograms of THC per milliliter of blood are impaired.
King said the bill is needed to stem what appears to be an increase in stoned driving in Colorado. Drivers whose blood tested positive for THC at the state toxicology lab have increased from a couple hundred in 2009 to more than 1,000 last year, King said.
“With this drastic increase, we are well on our way to a doped-driving epidemic that will match the DUI epidemic we had 10-15 years ago,” King said.
Opponents say that research isn’t conclusive that everybody is stoned at 5 ng and that the bill would result in sober drivers being convicted. Sen. Morgan Carroll, D-Aurora, called the bill, “a shortcut on burden of proof.” Sen. Pat Steadman, D-Denver, said state law already makes it illegal to drive while stoned — including for those drivers who are impaired at less than 5 ng.
“I would prefer to stick with current law, where the question of impairment is put to a jury and where evidence of someone’s conduct is presented in court,” Steadman said.
Steadman said the bill would hurt medical-marijuana patients who regularly use marijuana and may have higher baseline levels of THC in their blood.
But King said the bill sends an important message that driving high is not OK.
“What I’m saying is, you can’t get high and drive,” King said. “It has an impact on the rest of us. You can smoke and wait. You can smoke and walk. You can smoke and find a ride. But you cannot smoke and drive.”
Fourteen other states have laws creating a THC limit for driving — laws that are known as “per se” laws. Several other states have zero-tolerance driving laws for THC.
Today’s approval in the Senate is significant because a nearly identical proposal failed at the same step last year after first clearing the House easily. While the Colorado Senate is controlled by Democrats and the House is controlled by Republicans, party lines have been unreliable in determining voting patterns on the bill. Today’s vote in the Senate split party caucuses.
John Ingold: 303-954-1068 or jingold@denverpost.com
John Ingold | Health and Medicine Reporter — The Denver Post
John Ingold was a Denver Post reporter from 2000-2018.
Follow John Ingold @johningold
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Mitchelton-Scott dominate Mount Etna to take Giro d’Italia stage six victory and overall lead
Simon Yates moves into the overall lead of the Giro d'Italia after finishing together with stage winner Esteban Chaves
Richard Windsor May 10, 2018 4:39 pm
10 May 2018 101st Giro d'Italia Stage 06 : Caltanissetta - Etna 1st : CHAVES Johan Esteban (COL) Mitchelton - Scott 2nd : YATES Simon (GBR) Mitchelton - Scott Photo : Yuzuru SUNADA
Esteban Chaves
Simon Yates
Mitchelton-Scott dominated the Giro d’Italia‘s first summit finish to Mount Etna on stage six, with Esteban Chaves taking the stage victory and Simon Yates taking the overall lead.
The pair finished together on top of the volcano in Sicily, after Chaves had attacked from the breakaway on the climb and Yates attacked from a group of overall favourites in the final 1.5km.
Yates, happy to take the six second bonus and second place to steal the overall lead from the dropped Rohan Dennis (BMC), let his Colombian team-mate roll across the line to take the day’s victory having ridden in the break all day.
The main favourites, including defending champion Tom Dumoulin (Sunweb), Thibaut Pinot (Groupama-FDJ), Fabio Aru (UAE Team Emirates) and Chris Froome (Team Sky) all finished in an eight-man group 26 seconds back, with Pinot able to sprint ahead to take the final time bonus for third place.
Maglia rosa Dennis finished 1-04 back on the winner, and drops out of the overall lead as Dumoulin stays in second, 14 seconds behind Yates with Chaves in third place.
A huge number of riders were desperate to make it into the early breakaway today, with racing going for over half an hour before a decisive group finally got away.
A group of 28 riders slipped out of the bunch with the GC teams finally slowing to allow them to drift off, however seemingly failed to realise the presence of Esteban Chaves, just 47 seconds down on GC and potentially aiming for a decent overall finish.
He was joined by team-mate Jack Haig, as well as Chad Haga and Sam Oomen (Sunweb), Alessandro De Marchi (BMC), Alessandro Tonelli and Giulio Ciccone (Bardiani-CSF), Mikaël Chérel, Quentin Jauregui and Nico Denz (Ag2r La Mondiale), David De La Cruz an Sergio Henao (Team Sky), Marco Frapporti and Francesco Gavazzi (Androni-Sidermec), Manuele Mori, Jan Polanc and Diego Ulissi (UAE Team Emirates), Edoardo Zardini (Wilier Triestina), Robert Gesink (LottoNL-Jumbo), Ben Hermans and Rubén Plaza (Israel Cycling Academy), Sebastian Reichenbach and Jérémy Roy (Groupama-FDJ), Niklas Eg (Trek-Segafredo) and Dayer Quintana (Movistar).
The group established a maximum gap of around 3-30, but it jumped between 2-40 to 3-10 as BMC chased on the front of the peloton behind in service of maglia rosa Rohan Dennis.
By 40km remaining, after a fast day of over 44kmh average speed, the break still had 2-30 with the finish to Mount Etna looming.
The gap gradually dropped towards the foot of the 16km categorised part of the climb, with the break carrying 1-24 onto the lower slopes with a number of riders immediately blowing up.
Robert Gesink was the first to attack out front with 14.4km to go and 1-12 on the bunch, with Chérel and Hermans following, but they were quickly caught before De Marchi tried his luck.
He was followed by Ben Hermans before Sergio Henao and Esteban Chaves attacked with 11.8km to go. They again, were eventually forced to slow and reform in the group.
Ciccone then attacked with 9.8km to go but was reeled in, before trying again with 6km to go as the reduced group of five riders chased behind with around 40 seconds on the bunch.
Chaves then pushed on with 5.3km to go and was able to shake Henao, who had been marking him, riding straight past Ciccone, gaining around 35 seconds on the main bunch and 23 on his breakaway rivals.
Esteban Chaves breaks clear on Mount Etna during stage six of the 2018 Giro d’Italia (Sunada)
Tom Dumoulin (Sunweb) pushed on with number of favourites from the main group, with Froome put into immediate trouble along with maglia rosa Rohan Dennis.
Froome was able to work his way back in as the favourites caught everyone but Chaves, but Dennis continued to struggle with 3.3km to go.
Pozzovivo dragged out a group of Bennett, Yates, Pinot with 3km to go as Dumoulin chased and brought them back with Chaves still 20 seconds up the road.
Those movements from the favourites’ group seemed to put them at somewhat of a stalemate heading into the final 1.5km, with Simon Yates attacking with 1.4km to go after seeing his rivals just watching each other.
The Briton quickly caught Chaves within the last kilometre, and the pair rode together towards the finish line where Chaves was allowed to roll across the line alongside his team-mate to take victory, with Yates moving into the overall lead.
Pinot was able to sprint from the group of favourites behind for third place and the four bonus seconds, with Froome finishing at the back of the group. Dennis finished 1-04 down on the winner, but remains in the top-10 overall.
Friday’s stage will see the riders head to Italy’s mainland for a flat 159km sprinters’ stage from Pizzo to Praia a Mare, with two mountain stages to come at the weekend.
Simon Yates celebrates taking the overall lead after stage six of the 2018 Giro d’Italia (Sunada)
Giro d’Italia 2018, stage six: Caltanissetta to Etna (164km)
1 Esteban Chaves (Col) Mitchelton-Scott, in 4-16-10
2 Simon Yates (GBr) Mitchelton-Scott
3 Thibaut Pinot (Fra) Groupama-FDJ, at 26s
4 George Bennett (NZl) LottoNL-Jumbo
5 Domenico Pozzovivo (Ita) Bahrain-Merida
6 Miguel Angel Lopez (Col) Astana Pro Team
7 Richard Carapaz (Ecu) Movistar Team
8 Tom Dumoulin (Ned) Team Sunweb
9 Fabio Aru (Ita) UAE Team Emirates
10 Chris Froome (GBr) Team Sky, all same time
General classification after stage six
1 Simon Yates (GBr) Mitchelton-Scott, in 22-46-03
2 Tom Dumoulin (Ned) Team Sunweb, at 16s
3 Esteban Chaves (Col) Mitchelton-Scott, at 26s
4 Domenico Pozzovivo (Ita) Bahrain-Merida, at 43s
6 Rohan Dennis (Aus) BMC Racing Team, at 53s
7 Pello Bilbao (Esp) Astana Pro Team, at 1-03
8 Chris Froome (GBr) Team Sky, at 1-10
9 George Bennett (NZl) LottoNL-Jumbo, at 1-11
10 Fabio Aru (Ita) UAE Team Emirates, at 1-12
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What counts as good for your age?
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Exeter Boys' Brigade donate pocket money
Naomi Palmer
Earlier in July, volunteers, Mike and Vera Saffin, went along to visit the 1st Exeter Boys' Brigade to present a talk and collect a cheque for £100, which the boys had kindly raised by donating their spare change over a number of weeks.
Huge thanks to the Boys' Brigade for your generosity! Below are some snaps of the evening.
The Exeter Boys' Brigade present their cheque.
The boys attend to Nike's talk.
The cheque donated to Devon Air Ambulance.
Published: 10th July, 2018
Author: Naomi Palmer
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The Motorcycle Ride Out
Rideout terms and conditions
Paramedic, Lee, shares his account of our new heli's benefits
Here's how our new helicopter is enhancing the delivery of critical care for our patients
lottery results for Friday 15th January 2021
Find out who this weeks winners are (week ) 38,748
Ocean City Motorcycle Festival & The Megaride
The Ocean City Motorcycle Festival will again be supporting Devon Air Ambulance in 2021 as one of it's charities
New year, new fundraiser
Fantastic fundraisers last year gave our income a boost when they took to virtual fundraising. This year we anticipate enthusiastic support of our next virtual fundraiser!
Naughty but nice - Exmouth Community College raises funds with bake sale
Exmouth Community College continues to support Devon Air Ambulance with an appeal to the taste buds!
Doddiscombsleigh pupils raise funds with summer fun
Doddiscombsleigh Primary School pupils support Devon Air Ambulance in second year of fundraising activity.
Teign Ten Tors students raise £680 for Devon Air Ambulance
Teign School students raised an incredible £680 for Devon Air Ambulance thanks to their participation in a sponsored walk.
Young stallholders raise funds
Friends raise funds with pre-loved toys, books and homemade goodies.
10 school holiday ideas
Try one or more of our top 10 fun fundraising tips this summer holiday!
Shiphay students bake and make for us
Young fundraisers from Shiphay school baked cakes and decorated seashells in aid of Devon's air ambulances this summer.
Sticklepath students honour their heroes
Not all heroes wear capes, as Sticklepath Community School students demonstrate when they dressed as their heroes in support of Devon Air Ambulance.
A highflyers post
Future paramedic, Jas, shares her thoughts on her work experience
Jasmine Yeo spent a week with us getting the inside insights into how we work. Here's her reflection on the experience.
Teign School makes a musical fundraising effort
Teign School Musical Theatre and Drama Group talents raise funds in their annual charity showcase.
Devon is a large county with diverse terrain. The Devon Air Ambulance mission map shows you where our Helicopters and our Critical Care Cars have been. Find out more.
Devon Air Ambulance stands down aircraft
Devon Air Ambulance will temporarily be responding to patients solely by critical care car, but its critical care paramedics will still to respond to patients with their specialist skills and equipment.
Play our lottery and save lives
Play the Devon Air Ambulance lottery for a chance to win a top weekly cash prize of £1,350. Of every £1 played, 76p goes straight back into the charity.
Thanks to your support, our two helicopters are able to provide essential lifesaving treatment as quickly as possible. We're there for you when it matters most.
Motorcycle Ride Out - 2018 online registration now closed
Online registration for the 2018 Motorcycle Ride out is now closed. Here you can read about details for the day, or you can register at one of the start points if you have not done so already.
Mission facts
Take a glance at the situations our ambulance teams encountered in 2020.
By making a donation your generosity and support really does make a huge difference. Please be assured you can donate simply and safely online. Your details will only be used to process your donation. Thank you for your support.
Why we are asking our supporters not to sign the petition for government to fund air ambulances
The response from Devon Air Ambulance to a petition to government for funding air ambulance services.
About the helicopters
Some interesting stats about our helicopters from last year (2019).
Our volunteers are fantastic people who donate their skills and time to support Devon Air Ambulance. Would you like to be one of them? Find out more.
There are all sorts of ways to help support your local Air Ambulance Charity. Read more
Published: 3rd April, 2019
Devon Air Ambulance
5 Sandpiper Court
Harrington Lane
EX4 8NS
[email protected] +44 (0)1392 466 666
Devon Air Ambulance Trust is a charity registered in England and Wales (1077998) | Company No. 3855746
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BUSINESS SUPPLY COMPANY EXPRESSES MORE THAN JUST AN INTEREST
Commercial News | Wed 27 Mar 2019
A Bradford business will be expanding into new premises after acquiring Express Buildings in Baildon as part of a multi-million pound investment.
ACS, which specialises in office supplies, IT solutions and managed print services, will relocate from Bingley to the four storey prominent office building, which is situated on Otley Road and was formerly known as Butterfield House. The property was marketed by Dacres Commercial.
Harry Stevenson, Commercial Director of ACS said: “Our business is currently based at Aire Valley Park and it’s been a great location for us, but we have essentially outgrown the premises. It was this steady and consistent growth of our business, and the size restrictions within the existing business park that has forced a move.
“We are incredibly excited about the new office - it’s a significant step for us as we’re almost tripling in size. We have aggressive growth plans and remain incredibly confident we will continue to show sustainable, robust growth over the coming years, which is why we have invested approximately £800,000 in refurbishment costs alone, to Express Buildings.”
ACS’s investment will include a multitude of changes, aimed at achieving a working environment that promotes comfort and productivity for all its employees, customers and suppliers. Harry added: “We are literally creating a brand new, state-of-the-art office space to accommodate the thoughts and wishes of our 100 plus employees. Our first priority post purchase was to show our team their new home, but importantly give them the chance to provide feedback. It was imperative that everyone involved in ACS could visualise our future and embrace the intended investment.”
It was the sheer scale for company growth that attracted the business to the property. Harry concluded: “Our intention is to provide job security, but also create more jobs in general. We aim to increase employee numbers to 130 before the end of 2019, then another 20 plus jobs throughout 2020.”
Matthew Brear, an Associate at Dacres Commercial, said: “Express Buildings is an attractive building in a prominent location with plenty of car parking. It’s ideal as a high profile headquarters with an extensive glazed frontage that really makes it stand-out, and it’s great to see such a successful business like ACS make the move to Baildon. The future job creation will also benefit both local people and the local economy as a whole.”
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News link
Who Is to Blame for Nayeemul Abrar’s Death?
Sakib Hasan
10th November, 2019 12:45:39
Nayeemul Abrar was electrocuted on last Friday and died on his way to Mohakhali hospital for treatment. Abrar, a nine-grader non-resident student of Dhaka Residential Model School & College, received electric shock from a power generator set behind the stage erected at his own college premises to hold the Prothom Alo’s juvenile supplement Kishore Alo’s “ Ki Anando” program. The hapless teenager came to attend the function along with his friends with juvenile exuberance but was left dead while the function was still continuing. What can be a more inhuman experience in a human society than the fact that the lustre and prestige of a function matter more than the question of life and death of its own participant?
Is there anybody to deny that Abrar’s life could be saved once the power generator would be well-guarded by the organizers? Since it is an electricity generating device, it always involves dangers and hazards. Most importantly, it was an innocent juveniles’ program meant for those susceptible to risks and dangers. As soon as the organizers arranged the power generating system, it became a mandatory responsibility to take necessary precautions to manage the dangers and risks involving this risky device. I don’t know whether the organizers ever thought of the risks involving factors concerning such a juvenile congregation. Even if they visualized the risk factors, they did so just hypothetically and this hypothesis was not translated into a reality on the ground.
I am very sorry to say that I can hardly accept the death of Nayeemul Abrar as a single, isolated case of an unnatural death. It is neither a road accident death nor a death caused by thunder or a death caused by a broken tree while staying at home. In the above-mentioned cases or innumerable such cases not mentioned here the killing agents are beyond the control of human intelligence and intelligibility and which is why may clearly be defined as accidental or unnatural deaths. But when the circumstances leadind to a death happen to be well within the human control and management, in no way, we call it an unnatural death. Rather, we can straight call it an avoidable death and it can be averted once the precautionary instruments worked in full gear.
Who will take the liability of this tragic death? A death becomes tragic only if there are tragic elements in the way it all happens there. Abrar is not my son or he is my relation either. However, he is the embodiment of thousands of innocent juveniles of Bangladesh who are being killed for their innocence and inexperience. Many Abrars everyday respond to the invitations of many organizations and estalishment who embellish their shining feathers by the agile and lively presence of these blooming flowers. Should these organizations and firms ever care about them anyway? Life is being weighed in the balance of promotional commercialization and this is a serious barrier sometimes for the promotion of humanity in a society we are persistently insisting on being a humanized one. We are claiming to be human-hearted emotional beings but we are practically behaving like mechanical creatures.
Unfortunate death in organized gatherings or functions is nothing new in Bangladesh. More than 100 people were killed while collecting Zakat clothes since 1980. 10 Hindu devotees were stampeded to death and 30 others were injured on March27, 2015 at Langalbandh organized gathering on the occasion of “Astami Snan” in the river Brahmaputrya. Also, Mymensingh tragedy took the innocent lives of 4 poor children and 30 destitute mothers while they were collecting Zakat clothes from an organized camp arranged in front of a Madrasha in the same year. Mezban tragedy of Chittagang back in 2017 took 10 lives again from a host’s party arranged to entertain people with traditional Mezban dish.
In all these cases of shockingly unexpected deaths, the victims are mostly marginalized people having modest profiles. Had these hapless victims hailed from high-profile social backgrounds or had they possessed an institutional identity, there might have been fierce protest across the country. Hyowever, their deaths could hardly find a bgger voice across the country. Rather, the cries of their breaved families fizzled out in the horizon. The print media and television news channels made just a routine announcement as they always do.
Since Nayeemul Abrar has an institutional identity, his hapless death can hardly be passed by as an unnatural death. His classmates and college mates formed a human chain and they already constituted a three-member probe team to investigate his death and find out the real causes behind his death. The Editor of The Prothom Alo has already been sued by Abrar’s family. The Principal of Dhaka Residential Model College has said in a statement that there were negligences of the organizers. Clearly speaking, it is not only a matter of sheer negligence, rather, the way all it happened shows that Nayeemul Abrar’s death is a case of extreme disregard towards the respect for human life.
Deaths due to negligences and carelessness is no less serious than the deliberate killings if weighed in the scale of human penal code. In the previous cases, we have seen that the organizers being the influential people of the society escaped punishment because of their strong social position and digtnified status. Lack of adequate provisions in dealing with shockingly unacceptable deaths as well as absence of strong social pressure on the offending organizers help these killers go unpunished quite easily.
Although killings caused by organizers’ carelessness have been recurrently taking place in Bangladesh since long, the organizers seem to care a straw for such killings. Organizers will only come back to their senses once they will be made to understand the value of a human life by paying a massive penalty for their negligence. If we claim ours as a human society we uphold the right to live above all considerations and identities. Otherwise, the growing power of organizations or establishments will one day buy out all rights of the individuals.
The writer is an Assistant Professor of English, Bogura Cantonment Public School & College.
E-mali: [email protected]
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Ezra Dibble, left, Tim Sauchuk, Elizabeth Shapiro, and Socrates Rosenfeld, CEO of I Heart Jane, sit in their new office conference room off of Porter Street in Soquel. – Marcello Hutchinson-Trujillo — Santa Cruz Sentinel
By Nicholas Ibarra and Santa Cruz Sentinel |
PUBLISHED: August 3, 2018 at 12:00 a.m. | UPDATED: February 27, 2020 at 10:22 a.m.
SANTA CRUZ >> Entrepreneurs hoping to make it big in California’s new cannabis marketplace are planting roots in Santa Cruz County, looking to bring new meaning to the term “high tech.”
Area initiatives include an online pot marketplace, a smart growing solution that harnesses big data and an app that allows cannabis companies to manage their delivery and transportation — to name a few.
And investors are taking note.
Santa Cruz Foundry, founded by Andy Van Valer and Kurt Grutzmacher, is billed as the Central Coast’s first cannabis-centered accelerator that would provide budding businesses with co-working space, mentorship and other support. The seasoned investors say the green industry is ready to catch fire, and that Santa Cruz — with its proximity to Silicon Valley and its unique cultural history around the plant — could catch more than its share of the heat.
“Santa Cruz is the place for cannabis,” Van Valer said. “It’s the energetic center, at least in our nation, for cannabis.”
Santa Cruz Foundry is working with dozens of entrepreneurs out of its 2,000-square-foot River Street office, according to Grutzmacher, and is about to expand to a second location.
Based in Soquel, I Heart Jane is aspiring to become the “Amazon of cannabis” with a twist that puts local businesses front and center. Users search the site for the strains, products or effects they’re after, and they are able to sort through what’s in stock at local dispensaries and buy online for pickup or — where legal — delivery.
In a little over a year, I Heart Jane has grown to a network of 350 dispensaries across 14 states, according to founder and CEO Socrates Rosenfeld.
Rosenfeld, a former U.S. Army Ranger and MIT alum, said he moved to Santa Cruz to found the company because of its “rich and vast tradition“ with the plant.
Local farm-tech company Cityblooms is also branching out from its farm-totable solutions to seed-to-shelf, according to founder and CEO Nick Halmos. The company offers a modular farming system that monitors temperature, moisture and other factors to keep plants healthy and generate a trove of useful data.
Both companies were among the presenters Wednesday at CannaTech, an event hosted by Santa Cruz New Tech Meetup at the Dream Inn. Additional presenters included cryptocurrency solutions provider BitAlpha, intellectual property outfit IP Provider, and topical-ointment maker Randy’s Club.
Co-host Danielle Davenport, CEO of the Global Foundry Group, said the industry is in an a moment that is full of both opportunity and risk.
“It’s tantamount to the deregulation of the utilities and the dot-com boom,” she said.
Nationwide, the legal marijuana market is projected to pass $11 billion in sales by the end of 2018 and top $23 billion by 2022, according to analysis by Arcview Market Research and BDS Analytics. But Davenport cautioned that, as with the dot-com boom, as many as 90 percent of the new businesses should be expected to fail. While most CannaTech presenters looked ahead, Christopher Carr looked behind. The host of The Cannabis Connection on KSCO Radio spoke about cannabis’ close connection to Santa Cruz County, where Carr said much of world’s most prized stock was bred and where noted activists such as Valerie Corral, director of the Wo/men’s Alliance for Medical Marijuana, squared off with local and federal authorities for decades.
“As we get excited about money,commerce and business, we can’t forget the patients, we can’t forget the people whose shoulders we stand on in this industry,” Carr said.
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Cabin crew from leading airlines including easyJet, Jet2, Virgin Atlantic and Emirates are selling off their used uniform, tights and shoes to fetishists on eBay
Cabin crew claimed to be from top airlines including easyJet and British Airways
The 'worn' and often unwashed uniform items appear to be listed for fetishists
Norwegian Airlines cabin crew member said the low salaries drive people to sell
By Leigh Mcmanus For Mailonline
Published: 07:22 EST, 14 April 2019 | Updated: 10:25 EST, 14 April 2019
An air steward has claimed they are so poorly paid they are being forced to sell unwashed uniforms online - to people with 'perverse interests'.
Cabin crew claiming to be from top airlines including easyJet, British Airways, Jet2, Virgin Atlantic and Emirates have been flogging used uniform, tights and shoes on eBay.
The 'worn' and often unwashed uniform items are sometimes listed as 'very worn and fragrant of my natural perfumes', and appear to be listed for fetishists.
But a Norwegian Airlines cabin crew member has now come forward to reveal that it is the 'appallingly low' salaries that have led to staff on 'every flight' selling their clothes to people with 'perverse interests'.
Screengrab from ebay showing used cabin crew tights and stockings that are up for grabs
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The crew member, who wished to remain anonymous, claims that some of his colleagues have been offered up to £500 for a pair of worn tights - and have contemplated accepting.
The man, who has been working for Norwegian Airlines since 2015, said: 'You do think, 'oh goodness £500, it's a lot.'
'People think we have a glamorous life going around the world. I don't think people realise we are reduced to selling our used crew shoes to make ends meet.'
One of dozens of listings, this one selling a 'huge bundle' of used cabin crew tights
Often advertised as 'well-worn', the items being offered include shoes, tights and even name-badges with the branding of various airlines.
One listing for a pair of used flight attendant tights says: 'worn on many long distance journeys on very long hot shifts.
'Very worn and fragrant of my natural perfume as often worn minus underwear'.
A stewardess stretches her legs across the cabin of a plane as she attempts to sell her tights
The cabin crew member said that he is now earning less than half the salary, as a senior crew member, that he did as a junior crew member ten years ago at a different airline.
He said: 'I started on £2,200 a month at my old airline, which eventually rose to £3,000.'
After being made redundant in 2015, he joined Norwegian Airlines and now earns just £1,200 a month.
He added: 'An awful lot of crew I am flying with have been reduced to selling uniform. On every flight, at least one or two are doing it.'
The man said that he himself has been a collector of airline uniforms for many years, as it was always his dream to fly.
A list of stockings for sale. Shoes and belts were also up for grabs. Some women say they are cabin crew
As well as stockings and several pairs of 'well worn' shoes, this Emirates belt was also available
After racking up hundreds of outfits, the air steward decided to start selling them on eBay - and discovered a market of people with 'strange interests'.
And although he says he has never wanted to sell to 'role play evening people', he is now considering doing so because he is struggling to live on his wage.
He said: 'There are people who collect from a fashion perspective, but you get some quite bizarre people who are doing it for I dread to think what reason.
These 'much worn genuine Emirates airline cabin heeled crew shoes' appeared with the above information
Some 'preloved' cabin crew tights. Some of the items appeared to be listed for fetishists
'I would say they make up about 45 per cent of the buyers.'
One listing, purporting to be from someone who'd been employed by Emirates, said: 'Selling these much worn genuine Emirates airline cabin heeled crew shoes.
'Worn on Boeing-777 and Airbus A380 ALL over the world!
'Not in the best condition as they've been worn quite a bit, as you can see from the pictures, also don't hold the best smell! ALSO COMES WITH INSOLES!
'(will even throw in a pair of old worn stockings for buyers who want - message for more info!)'
The Norwegian Airlines cabin crew member continued: 'I have just flown from Buenos Aires with a girl who had an email from a guy who offered £500 for her tights if she wore them non-stop for a week.
'She said it was bizarre but she was contemplating whether to accept.
'Some of my colleagues have regular customers. One has been offered £300 for a photo of her wearing the outfit being sold.'
A Norwegian Airlines cabin crew member has now come forward to reveal that it is the 'appallingly low' salaries that have led to staff on 'every flight' selling their clothes
The air steward revealed the most he has ever sold an outfit for was £1,600. The full Virgin Atlantic women's uniform was bought by a man.
Though the air steward we interviewed is employed by Norwegian Airlines, the eBay market is filled with uniforms from most major airlines.
A Norwegian Airlines spokesperson said: 'Norwegian cabin crew renumeration is in line with the market rate and in many instances above that of our competitors.
'We never comment on the personal situation of our colleagues.'
EasyJet, British Airways, Jet2, Virgin Atlantic and Emirates have all been contacted for comment.
EasyJet responded, saying: 'Individuals are not allowed to sell easyJet uniform and we will always investigate the unauthorised sale of easyJet uniform as a matter of security.
'The safety and security of its passengers and crew is always easyJet's highest priority.'
A Virgin spokeswoman said: 'We take allegations of individuals selling or passing on their uniforms very seriously and we will always investigate as a matter of security. The safety and security of our customers and crew is always our top priority.'
Cabin crew from leading airlines selling off their used uniforms to fetishists on eBay
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Group F: Germany, Mexico, Sweden, South Korea – Martin Keown's World Cup guide
By Martin Keown for the Daily Mail
Published: 11:44 EST, 13 June 2018 | Updated: 14:31 EST, 13 June 2018
The four-year countdown is over, the World Cup finally kicks off on Thursday and it promises to be yet another scintillating tournament.
Group F contains Germany, Mexico, Sweden, South Korea.
Sportsmail's MARTIN KEOWN gives his rundown of each team in Group F, including the manager, the man to watch out for, their strength and their biggest weakness.
FIFA ranking: 1 Odds: 5-1
World Cup best: Four-time winners (1954, 1974, 1990, 2014)
THE BOSS: Joachim Low
Germany’s World Cup-winning boss has reached at least the semi-finals in his five major tournaments in charge. He has put extra pressure on himself by axing Leroy Sane, voted the Premier League’s best young player by his peers.
THE STAR: Mesut Ozil
I have been critical of Ozil’s displays for Arsenal this season. It feels as if he has been saving himself for the World Cup. If he performs the way we know he can, Ozil can be Germany’s star man. He is the glue that holds everything together.
THE PROSPECT: Timo Werner
The 5ft 11in forward, 22, is an ice-cool finisher. He scored 21 goals in all competitions for RB Leipzig despite a season disrupted by illness and injury. Werner already has eight goals in his first 14 caps.
KEY STRENGTH
Everywhere you look, there are top players. Such is Germany’s strength that the likes of Ilkay Gundogan, Julian Draxler and Antonio Rudiger may have to settle for a place on the bench. Marco Reus is back, too, after missing both the 2014 World Cup and Euro 2016 through injury. Germany always arrive at tournaments supremely confident.
BIGGEST WEAKNESS
It is hard to pinpoint a single weakness, but the Germans have only won one of their last six games — albeit facing the likes of France, Spain and Brazil in that run. Yet how often do we see this winning machine turn up at tournaments and hit top gear?
FIFA ranking: 24 Odds: 150-1
World Cup best: Runners-up (1958)
THE BOSS: Janne Andersson
Led Norrkoping to the Swedish title in 2015 before taking the reins after Euro 2016. He is a strong personality, recently rubbishing talk of a comeback for retired striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic. He said: ‘If you rejected the team, I do not think you should come back.’
THE STAR: Emil Forsberg
Sweden will be looking to the RB Leipzig winger, who has been linked with a move to Arsenal this summer, to provide the attacking impetus.
THE PROSPECT: Victor Lindelof
Heads to Russia with a point to prove after the centre back failed to make an impact in his first season at Manchester United.
By seeing off Italy in the play-offs, the Swedes have proven they can rise to the occasion in do-ordie matches.
Biggest weakness Without Ibrahimovic, Marcus Berg will be their main goal threat. While the 31-year-old top-scored in qualifying with eight, he now plays for Al Ain in the UAE.
Victor Lindelof heads to Russia with a point to prove after his first season at Manchester United
World Cup best: Quarter-finals (1970, 1986)
THE BOSS: Juan Carlos Osorio
While studying at John Moores University in 1997, the Colombian lived near Liverpool’s training ground and would peer over the wall to watch sessions.
THE STAR: Javier Hernandez
He may not have enjoyed the best season at West Ham but Chicharito’s pretadory instinct could be crucial if Mexico are to get out of a tricky group.
THE PROSPECT: Hirving Lozano
Nicknamed Chucky after the doll in the horror films, the PSV winger, 22, will be out to scare defences.
Plenty of experience. Three players — Hernandez, captain Andres Guardado and former Tottenham midfielder Giovani dos Santos — each have a century of caps.
Choking in the knockout stages. Their last World Cup quarterfinal was in 1986 and they were hammered 7-0 by Chile at the same stage of the Copa America two years ago.
PSV winger Hirving Lozano, 22, will be out to scare defences in Russia this summer
Chicharito’s pretadory instinct could be crucial if Mexico are to get out of a tricky group
World Cup best: Fourth (2002)
THE BOSS: Shin Tae-Yong
Likes to watch from the stands and relay instructions to his coaching staff.
THE STAR: Son Heung-Min
Tottenham forward with excellent close control who scored 18 goals this season.
THE PROSPECT: Lee Jae-Sung
Versatile midfielder, 25, was the K League’s Most Valuable Player for 2017.
In Son, they have one of the Premier League’s most improved players. He can be their Harry Kane.
Poor recent form, including defeats by Northern Ireland and Poland.
Tottenham forward Son Heung-Min has excellent control and scored 18 goals this season
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Philippe Fehmiu prend la barre de Plus qu'un hit avec Philippe, une toute nouvelle 'emission qui saura, sans aucun doute, satisfaire vos envies de chanter sur de grands succ`es. Hits th'ematiques, hit... (view more)
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Global Sourcing at Its Best, or DataArt Builds AirTroductions.com for AirKarma, Ltd.
DataArt, a high-end software outsourcing company, announced technical completion of AirTroductions, an in-flight registration and networking platform, allowing passengers to "find the perfect seatmate by matching up like-minded flyers".
"If I'm looking to find a new business contact, to share a cab from the airport, to find a date or simply to have a silent seatmate while flying from point A to point B, AirTroductions will let me do it", said AirTroductions Founder Peter Shankman in February of this year, explaining to DataArt developers his idea of expedia meets Friendster meets match.com for business and personal networking in the air. Six months later the project is live with almost a 1,000 registered users.
The premise and the site are simple. After buying an airline ticket, the traveler fills out a personal profile at airtroductions.com, specifying whether she has an interest in personal or a business contact, enters the flight data - including the flight number and date of travel - and immediately sees everyone else who's entered their information for that flight. It's strictly voluntary, and like any other networking or dating site, the traveler can enter as much or as little information as he or she wants, and it's completely private. All correspondence takes place through the site, all personal information stays confidential. On the day of the flight, travelers can choose to meet at the airport, and if they get along, ask the gate agent to seat them together.
"This is a great example of global sourcing working for the benefit of global business and networking", said Vica Vinogradova, VP of Corporate Communications at DataArt. "Peter never met DataArt developers in person, yet it didn't prevent them from managing the process impeccably. We look forward for AirTroductions to take off."
"AirTroductions was built by the award winning development team at DataArt, who came in under budget and under deadline. Utilizing them made the tech aspect of the site very easy and painless," said Shankman.
DataArt Builds AirTroductions.com
Gadgets for Spies, Flights and Dating Isles
Sitting pretty on a plane [USA Today]
Software outsourcing success stories: AirTroductions
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Power and renewables News
DNV GL advises on GBP 210 million investment for three new UK wind farms
Chris Gowen
Regional Communications Manager, NEMEA
contact.energy@dnvgl.com
Prajeev Rasiah
Regional Manager, Energy-North West Europe, Middle East & Africa
Phone: +44 2 03816 6023
DNV GL advises respected lenders, including Santander, on their GBP 210 million investment in a new 151 MW onshore wind portfolio.
LONDON, UK - 11 April 2017 - DNV GL, the world’s largest resource of independent energy experts and certification body, has advised renowned lenders, including Santander, on their GBP 210 million project finance investment for the construction of three new onshore wind farms by Banks Renewables, the first of which is expected to start generating electricity by early 2018.
The 151 MW three wind project portfolio, Kype Muir and Middle Muir in Scotland, and Moor House in England, were among 15 projects that had successfully secured Contract for Difference (CfD) during the first round of the UK government auction initiative in 2015.
The lenders’ technical due diligence and advisory services provide an independent evaluation of a project's technical risks, particularly those uniquely relevant to the CfD funding and programme – and highlights the realisation impact of those risks – on the safe and profitable construction and future operation of the assets.
Prajeev Rasiah, Executive Vice President, for DNV GL’s energy business in NW Europe, Middle East & Africa, commented “We always endeavour to provide our customers with the greatest market investment insight, particularly for new schemes, such as the UK government’s CfD programme. We constantly strive to ensure that investors have the knowledge they need to make sound financial investments, to mitigate against all risks to secure the safe construction and smooth operation of assets.”
Construction has begun on the three-project portfolio, with the six-turbine Moor House wind farm expected to become operational in early 2018. Middle Muir, comprising 15 turbines, is scheduled to be operational later in the same year and Kype Muir’s 26 turbines are due to start producing energy in early 2019.
For more information about DNV GL’s Project due diligence service, click here.
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Ex-BioShock developers offer details about their new game, ‘The Blackout Club’
By Gabe Gurwin February 28, 2018
Few video game series are capable of creating a sense of atmosphere better than BioShock and Dishonored — their worlds feel real, despite their fantastical elements. The developers at Question Games, which includes former team members from both franchises, look poised to create the next immersive world with The Blackout Club, but this one looks a little bit scarier.
“Set in a small town with a monstrous secret, The Blackout Club follows a group of teens who band together after learning they’ve all been temporarily losing consciousness — waking up with no memory of what they have done,” Question Games said in a press release.
In classic teen-horror genre fashion, the adults in this mysterious town do not believe the kids, and they are forced to investigate the situation themselves, entering a “hostile underground” filled with shady figures living directly beneath the town. To document their findings, they use their cell phones, which we briefly see in the teaser trailer, and they have access to drones and traps in order to deal with enemies.
Designed for cooperative adventuring, The Blackout Club can be played by up to four players at once in a procedurally generated environment, which should contribute to replayability. Each night, you sneak out of your home and explore the town, looking for clues regarding a missing friend’s whereabouts. In addition to the “sleepwalking” adults looking for prey, there is also another “dangerous entity” that can’t be seen with the naked eye.
After each night, you and your cooperative partners return to your hideout, where you can customize your character and get new abilities to use the next time you venture out.
“In The Blackout Club, the horror genre comes home,” said Question Games co-founder and BioShock 2 director Jordan Thomas in the announcement. “Our story is about vulnerable heroes — for whom co-op gameplay is a matter of survival — who unite to save their friends.”
It’s certainly different than Thomas’ previous work, but The Blackout Club‘s sense of place and dramatic tension look to be just as important as they were in BioShock 2. The game launches for Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and PC in early 2019. Question Games’ first project, The Magic Circle, is available now.
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Third of UK consumers reckon ‘locals’ are important
It’s important to have a good pub near where you live. So find one third of consumers in the UK who reckon it demonstrates their being a part of a community according to research from Mintel.
British Lifestyles – The Emotional Impact of Economic Uncertainty from August 2011 found that even those who don’t frequent the pub so much believe that it’s important to have a good pub nearby.
“It is almost as if a pub is a bit of a status symbol for a community” states Mintel, “even if they don’t use it much, they want to know that they have the option to do so if they wish.”
The research also found that over twice as many people find it more enjoyable to drink in a pub than at home because of the “atmosphere and theatre” of a pub environment.
But notwithstanding this, visits to British pubs are falling with the number of ‘regulars’ over the age of 18 falling from 70 per cent in 2007 to just over 60 per cent.
Mintel found that 35 per cent think that drinking at home is less hassle than going to a bar, 27 per cent that it is more intimate at home while 30 per cent admit to not liking crowded bars.
But the report also finds a strong demand for premium vodka brands among consumers regardless of the current economic situation. “For example, the majority of vodka drinkers believe that they can ‘taste the difference when I drink quality vodka’ (64 per cent) and that ‘it is worth paying more for premium vodka’ (59 per cent)”.
Young people in the UK (18 to 24 years-olds) may drink less wine than any other age group but they spend more per bottle when buying for in-home consumption (£6.25 vs £6.01 on average).. this is as a result of their lack of wine knowledge, believes Mintel, meaning price becomes a barometer of quality and the fact that they are more likely to drink at home for special occasions.
Mintel also reports that Rosé wine is attracting a new younger, C2DE female audience who only drink rosé rather than switching between red and white. This group like the sugary taste of sweeter rosés as an ideal alternative to the likes of liqueurs and alcopops.
More people are also viewing the pub as somewhere to eat rather than to drink while 30 per cent reckon that pubs have been more pleasant to visit since the introduction of the smoking ban.
Restaurant/Dining sector sees 28% drop in November...
AIR calls on European Commission to expand insurance...
Government must recognise decimation of pub trade
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Microsoft Releases Xbox One SmartGlass App to Google Play
Tim November 20, 2013 @timotato 17
Microsoft launched the official Xbox One SmartGlass app to Google Play last night, allowing future owners of the next-gen console to utilize certain functions built right into the system. The SmartGlass app can act as a second screen for the Xbox One, enabling players to access additional content on their smartphone while playing their favorite games. You can also keep track of your friends and messages, all from within the app.
The app also lets users take control of the console’s builtin DVR capability. You can stream your own game footage or even keep an eye out on your friends’ gameplay, all from your smartphone or tablet. It’s a powerful app, so if you planned on picking up an Xbox One, be sure to grab the app from Google Play.
Play Link
Cheers Chris!
Video: HTC One Max Unboxing and Hands-on
Kit Kat Update for North American HTC One Should Arrive by End of January
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Substrate Games Receives $1.49M Grant to Develop Next Generation of Science Education Tools
Quietly forging new frontiers in studio #471 at Mainframe is Will Schneller, co-Founder and CEO of Substrate Games. Earlier this year, he received nearly $1.5M in grant funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) Division for Research Capacity Building to continue developing Mol.
Mol Chemistry is giving students learning the complex concepts of organic chemistry a leg up. The mobile platform offers unprecedented access to a gamified framework that is interactive, and even fun. Students are able to move through the extensive content and mental processing required for higher learning with greater ease and confidence.
It’s not difficult to understand why the application won the grant. This level of disruption in such a complicated subject is catalytic. However, the path to Substrate’s award has been a slow burn involving years of development and a healthy dose of focus.
The Creation of Substrate
Schneller recently explained how he and Substrate’s co-Founder Dr. Eve Wurtele began working with NIH in 2008 when they were building a cell biology computer game called Meta!Blast at Iowa State University. The idea for Mol Chemistry came in late 2015 and they won a NIH Phase I grant in the fall of 2017 that established proof-of-concept.
“Our most recent grant is Phase II of NIH’s three phase SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) program,” Schneller stated. He added, “While these are Research and Development grants, the primary outcome is a commercial product. They want to know that you've thought through every aspect of your business and product. Certainly, having been born out of a major research institution, and going through the National Science Foundation's I-Corps technology transfer accelerator went a long way to help us build credibility.”
The Phase II application required about 4 – 6 months of work laying out how they would effectively address the problem being solved while citing supportive academic literature. Schneller says they also like some indication that “you’re on to something, and we had a successful pilot test that demonstrated statistically significant increases in quiz scores.”
Utilizing Mainframe Studios
With the ability to work remotely with team members at Iowa State University, Texas A&M University and elsewhere, Schneller has found his decision to work out of Mainframe Studios in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) a smart one. He states that “it's great being able to work around others who are creating similar things, and being able to bounce ideas off one another or talk about issues we're all facing.”
[Read more about development of Mainframe Studios in Downtown DSM.]
He shares studio #471 with Josh Larson of Numinous Games, who has also experienced achievements in designing games that challenge the assumptions of what gaming can do for the betterment of society. Reviews of That Dragon Cancer are astonishing tales of life-altering impact. His latest, Galaxies of Hope, offers an interactive journey that connects those struggling with neuroendocrine (NET) cancer.
When asked what role his fine arts degree and design skills play in his success Will’s reply reveals a valuable asset artists offer seemingly disparate industries. He explains, “Creativity is being able to connect dots where others can't or haven't yet. In context of the business we're building, it's about changing your perspective and trying unorthodox, maybe even crazy things to solve a problem. When we're hiring we always look for people that display some level of creative thinking. Those are the people that will continue moving forward when heading into uncharted territory.”
As for what’s next for Schneller, he indicates a rebranding to Substrate Interactive is in the works and plans to deliver their organic chemistry product for a fall 2020 beta test. He adds that they are also contemplating what other projects they’d like to explore that furthers their mission “of building interactive media that showcases the wonders of science while helping to educate, entertain and inspire learners of all ages.”
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Important Building Code Terms for Firewall Requirements
With so many code terms for firewall requirements, trying to determine which ones are important is a monumental task. However, understanding the terminology helps tremendously when choosing a fire partition for your business. Following are some of the more important code terms to learn. Fire Barrier Wall (NFPA 221, 3.3.14.5) – “A wall, other than a fire wall, having a fire resistance rating.” Fire Wall (NFPA 221, 3.3.14.6) – “A wall separating buildings or subdividing a building to prevent the...
What Are the Effects of Blast on Fire Rated Doors?
For a long time, companies that designed protective barriers such as walls and doors focused primarily on the risk of fire. With the increasing threat of terrorism, these companies have upped their game by designing and developing blast walls to address these new deadly threats. Just as the name implies, these walls protect from blast pressures and flying fragments. Today, it is common to see these types of walls at various government buildings, as well as businesses part of the...
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Filip Makowiecki
Senior Design Strategist
21 Mar 2019 / Filip Makowiecki 7min
PWA as a UX Challenge: takeaways from the Mobile Trends Conference 2019
TechnologyPWA
The Mobile Trends Conference 2019, which has just ended, shows how dynamically the approach to mobile is changing in Poland.
Discussions centered around voice interfaces, m-commerce, reaching out to Generation Z and other challenges energized the audience at Krakow’s Stara Zajezdnia (Old Depot).
An unsung hero for this event was the PWA (Progressive Web App). Although PWAs did not have their own block in the program, they appeared as the main topic of three presentations: one by Google’s Jenny Gove, one by e-point’s own Michał Szklarski, and one by me. In fact, this article will cover points made in my presentation.
PWAs have made multiple appearances in the e-point blog. This time, let’s approach it from a slightly different angle: as a challenge to UX designers, particularly those working on seemingly non-application sales and service portal designs, e.g. for banks or insurers.
Why PWA?
Progressive Web Apps, in a nutshell, are Internet pages that behave like native applications. They are better than mobile-responsive websites because they:
Are faster.
Offer greater stability.
Have more offline options.
Make better use of native device functions, such as the camera, geolocation, alerts and notifications, and gesture navigation.
Can be installed on the home screen of a device
Are now available in the Google Play store. (This is a relatively recent development.)
In many ways, PWAs are also better than native applications. PWA installation is simpler and doesn’t necessarily require an app store. PWAs do not require updates, take up less memory, and do not demand a different version for every operating system variant. Moreover, being websites, they are indexed by Google and presented in search results.
Will PWAs replace applications?
Naturally, PWAs are not a universal solution, and I doubt they’ll replace classic applications anytime soon. Also, they’re not feasible for some use cases, such as in banking applications or mobile games.
Nevertheless, it needs to be borne in mind that mobile users have grown fairly picky. On average, they have 60-80 applications, but they regularly use only half of them – if that. Plus, 51% of mobile users install less than one application each month [source: Statista] and 77% never return to an application 72 hours after they installed it.
Today’s most important apps are those used for social media and for communication; it is these tools that account for the increasingly longer times users spend on their mobile devices. We can debate whether e-commerce and information services fare well in the category of mobile applications. However, it should be remembered that installing an application constitutes an additional barrier to some users; likewise, building and maintaining solutions dedicated to various operating systems may prove an inviable option.
Despite all of the above, it’s tempting to design application-like portal solutions for financial and banking companies. The sheer number of service and sales processes or interactive tools (such as calculators or configurators) makes packaging everything up in a native application seem highly intuitive. But will that app ever be downloaded onto users’ devices?
For these reasons, PWAs have become very appealing to us and to our customers.
The baseline PWA Checklist
We started developing our first sales and service PWA after an analysis of Google’s PWA Checklist. This checklist presents baseline and exemplary PWA requirements, which allows developers to quickly verify how far a given website is from meeting the standard.
This would seem an ideal situation – simply implement all Google’s PWA guidelines and we get a service that will engage and delight users, taking them deep into the brand. This will ultimately lead to more time spent with the offer and to higher sales.
Unfortunately, if we consider the baseline PWA requirements, we see that most of them are technological. Applying secure HTTPS protocol, ensuring responsiveness and fast operation (even in slow networks), and enabling offline loading and various installation options clearly affects user experience. So where does the UX design angle come in?
A UX Checklist for PWAs
The only requirement from the baseline Google checklist that is not strictly technological says Page transitions don't feel like they block on the network and even after reading their explanatory note (in this case, Snappy as you tap around – a truly great song title) it is difficult to state clearly the key design purposes.
The exemplary checklist, on the other hand, features an entire section devoted to user experience, but again it lists user experience guidelines relating to technology rather than to design. Nevertheless, reading this checklist helps us understand how PWA implementation should affect users’ experience according to Google.
It also meant that, as a UX team, we had to define some areas that had to be tackled first if we were to meet our goal of designing a sales and service PWA that’s more user-engaging than the best native application. They did not directly relate to the technological requirements set by Google, but they’d help us get to the heart of the application nature of this design. They were:
Interactions and transitions
RWD and the mobile-first approach
Let’s consider each one of these key areas separately.
Mobile applications are user-friendly because their information architecture is repetitive and transparent in two ways:
In the macro scale, e.g. we can always expect a similar number of pockets in particular application areas.
In the micro scale, e.g. views with similar functions look and behave in a similar way.
In sales and service portals, tailoring the presentation to each particular piece of information is extremely important. The presentation of banking account pages may vary greatly from a standard account to a foreign currency account, not to mention those for mortgages, loans, or other products. Occasionally, products or services require additional subpages, which complicates the macro-scale information architecture. (This can be compared to when Spotify albums are presented differently based on their music genre.) This variance is justified in terms of communication, but it makes it harder for the user to learn the portal and thus creates a barrier to usage.
It is worth going the extra mile here and, at an early stage in the design process, grabbing a whole cross-section of products from various categories with the goal of establishing a strong pattern for presenting detailed information. Flagship products – which usually get a lot of focus in the design process – will not suffer, and this extra work will facilitate the user’s experience with the portal and with exploring its options.
Most popular mobile applications have very limited text content. Even if we skip extreme cases like Snapchat, it can be seen that one screen usually contains less than a two hundred characters.
On the other hand, our clients’ standard product and distribution webpages can hold hundreds or even thousands of words.
In this case, it’s not exaggerating to say that text content becomes a battleground between user needs ("looking for particular information"), marketing expectations (communicating promotion information), and legal requirements (adding one more disclaimer, just in case).
Obviously, the rule of thumb cut as much as you can still holds true. In fact, it is even more true than usual because it follows the principle of plain language, which both we and our customers strive to implement in all solutions.
We aspired to a solution that could somehow anticipate what the user is looking for and help them find it. Only subsequent interactions, depending on what attracted the user’s attention, led to displaying particular data via swipes or other actions. We took the concept of a conversation with an advisor as our content model: stating core information and leaving the details for follow-up interactions.
When asked what they liked in mobile applications, users frequently replied the coolness. There are many things behind this idea, e.g. how the application responds to user actions. No one uses applications just to admire micro-interactions and transitions between screens, yet the process itself can be enjoyable and can improve user experience.
When trying to deliver a positive impression, remember that speedy operation and compliance with various operating systems and browsers are just as important as aforementioned coolness. That is why we decided to make a set of interactions and transitions which were not just cute frills but that actually facilitated service usage and ensure the snappiness of Google’s PWA Checklist.
Many of these micro-interactions was intended to make surfing the sea of content easier. Even the simplest swipe has a strong impact on ease of use, e.g. allowing users to move seamlessly between various promotions or products. Thus, the overriding principle for designers was use the least to achieve the most.
One of the greatest surprises in designing PWA portals was how challenging it was to transform PWAs into desktop views. We were not newcomers to the RWD and mobile-first approach. However, it appeared that the logic of a smartphone application and a desktop portal were like chalk and cheese – completely different.
Splitting information into the smallest possible chunks is a major challenge in designing a solution that looks good (and works!) on a smartphone. The simple transferral of the same mobile-friendly content to a desktop view produces a feeling of emptiness. This can appear highly aesthetic, but is actually difficult for users to process and understand.
Horror vacui – the fear of empty space – is not the only issue here. Different devices do not mean merely different screen sizes. We use the touch screen by touching it. Opening and closing modals and swiping through items is very intuitive. Most PCs require the use of a mouse or touchpad, which makes this kind of portal interaction unnatural: users are accustomed to scrolling. Even on touchscreen laptops, swipes and other mobile gestures feel too extended and uncomfortable.
In short, the rules for moving between mobile and desktop views are more complex than normal. We strove for full consistency of content presented in both channels, which necessitated different tactics for transforming structural portal components; this depended on their role in building communication and their function for the user.
Finally, a vital aspect needs to be highlighted which is not connected to the PWA itself. Mobile and desktop are two usage contexts and account for different current user needs which we, as designers, must cater to. PWAs may be an opportunity to think deeply about how and when mobile and desktop contexts can complement each other and when they should be used independently.
PWA and UX Design is still evolving
The greatest challenge in our work was to define which mobile application features were worth transferring to the world of sales and service portals. We found out that, at a deeper level, a successful PWA project was much more than just meeting Google checklist guidelines. It triggered some reflection over what the application nature we wanted to achieve in our designs actually stood for.
Currently, e-point is working on several PWA projects in the portal and e-commerce areas. Soon, we will be able to tell you more about them and how new solutions translate into user satisfaction. We’ll also show how PWAs can support achieving business goals. However, based on usability surveys and interviews with our customers, it’s already quite clear that the extra effort put into PWA implementations is worth it.
Senior Design Strategist at e-point. Filip has over 10 years of experience in wide varieties of communication. Before joining e-point, he worked in the PR. After hours, Filip translates young adult literature to Polish.
Write to authorLearn more
Technology / 16 Sep 2020 / 5 min read
News / 11 Aug 2020 / 2 min read
E-commerce / 13 May 2020 / 2 min read
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IARC Monographs evaluation of the carcinogenicity of night shift work
July 5, 2019EditorResearch and Studies
5 July 2019 The results of the recent IARC Monographs evaluation of the carcinogenicity of night shift work have now been published in The Lancet Oncology. This summary article presents the conclusions of the IARC Monographs Meeting 124. Shift work involving circadian disruption was previously evaluated by the IARC Monographs, in 2007. In this updated evaluation, the Working Group chose the...
ANSES publishes new review on the health effects related to exposure to low frequency electromagnetic fields
June 21, 2019EditorNews
Image: www.anses.fr Health effects related to exposure to low frequency electromagnetic fields ANSES published a new review today (21/6/2019) on the health effects related to exposure to low frequency electromagnetic fields. ANSES’s new expertise aimed to analyze all the new scientific knowledge available on exposure to low-frequency electromagnetic fields and their possible biological and health effects....
Fifth Court in Italy Ruled Cell Phones Cause Cancer and Determined it is an Occupational Disease
May 29, 2019EditorNews
Re – Posted with permission from: May 29, 2019 Written by: Martine Vriens, Director of International Legal Affairs for We Are The Evidence On 30 January, 2019, an Italian Court in the city of Monza, Italy ruled that the Acoustic Neuroma brain tumor of an airport employee was caused by exposure to the radiation from a cell...
French Agency ANSES Press release – LED: recommendations to limit exposure to blue light
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Microwave diathermy induces mitogen-activated protein kinases and tumor necrosis factor-α in cultured human monocytes
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https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15368378.2019.1613426 Abstract Although rehabilitation practice for most patients consists of a combined use of thermotherapy that is produced from diathermy devices resulting faster and deeper heating to the patient, major concerns about occupational exposure to electromagnetic radiation for the operators must be considered. In most occasions, physiotherapists have involved multi-hour treatment sessions to different patients,...
Electromagnetic fields in neonatal incubators: the reasons for an alert.
March 5, 2019EditorResearch and Studies
https://doi.org/10.1080/14767058.2017.1390559 Abstract BACKGROUND: Neonatal incubators are important tools for sick newborns in the first few days of life. Nevertheless, their electric engine, often very close to the newborn’s body, emits electromagnetic fields (EMF) to which newborns are exposed. Aim of this paper is to review the available literature on EMF exposure in incubators, and the effects of...
Disruption of central and peripheral circadian clocks in police officers working at night
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The Prevalence of People With Restricted Access to Work in Man-Made Electromagnetic Environments
February 22, 2019EditorEHS Electrohypersensitivity
Research Publish Date : 2019-01-18 Journal of Environment and Health Science https://www.ommegaonline.org/article-details/The-Prevalence-of-People-With-Restricted-Access-to-Work-in-Man-Made-Electromagnetic-Environments/2402 Michael Bevington Abstract Some surveys have identified people who have restricted access to work in environments with man-made electromagnetic exposures. This study attempts to determine their prevalence, an aspect not previously investigated in its own right. It is based on analyses of the two...
Australian Legal Firm – Compensation Lawyers for Wireless Exposure
February 6, 2019EditorNews
Photo by rawpixel on Unsplash The increasingly wide spread use of WiFi across business and government (especially in schools) is a move that goes against the rapidly mounting body of credible scientific evidence which makes increasingly clear that exposure to even low levels of WiFi on an ongoing basis has a wide range of serious adverse health effects....
Priartem PRESS RELEASE 23 January 2019 – EHS – New judicial advance in France – Recognition of electrosensitivity as an occupational disease
January 24, 2019EditorEHS Electrohypersensitivity
Source for this article: http://www.priartem.fr/EHS-Nouvelle-avancee-judiciaire-en.html?fbclid=IwAR08a3_kXRclym9jZapaO1IWlGiko87uEsylD6AbA0rB_tT4h-xJhM5w8W8 In a judgment of January 17, the Administrative Court of Cergy-Pontoise recognized the electrohypersensitivity of a research technician as an occupational disease. For Sophie PELLETIER, president of PRIARTEM, it is a double “first” : “This is the first time that the administrative jurisdiction – on which civil servants depend –...
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The Cricinfo Awards January 2, 2009
One-day international batting: the nominees
ESPNcricinfo staff
Cricinfo Awards: the nominees for the best ODI batting performance
Very, very happy: Chanderpaul after his last-ball six against Sri Lanka © AFP
Jamie How, 139 (116 balls) v England, Napier
How piloted New Zealand's chase of 340 adroitly. He reached his hundred from 86 balls, cashing in on the short square boundaries with a series of shredding drives and emphatic pulls. It was an uncharacteristic knock - in 16 ODIs before this game he had scored at a strike-rate of 67.27, without a century. With this one innings he pushed that figure up by over six percentage points, to 73.75. However, he couldn't quite finish the job as he was run out on the penultimate ball of the match. New Zealand managed a single off the next ball to tie the game.
Yuvraj Singh, 138 not out(78 balls), v England, Rajkot
Eleven months after he had last scored a hundred, Yuvraj burst into form with a sensational one. Shortly into his innings, he had problems with his back and needed a brace. Steve Harmison tested him with some short balls, and though Yuvraj took his eyes off them, he pulled consecutive boundaries to kickstart his innings. Yuvraj, who had Gautam Gambhir running for him, hit sixes off Andrew Flintoff and Harmison, and swatted Stuart Broad for six and four off successive balls. He reached his ninth hundred off the 64th ball he faced, lofted Flintoff for two sixes in the 47th over, and took another 18 off him in the 49th. It was the second-fastest century by an Indian, and the fastest by anyone against England.
Salman Butt 129 retired hurt (136 balls) v India
Kitply Cup final, Mirpur
Butt punched and slapped his way to his fifth ODI century against India. He let his partner, Younis Khan, who hit a charming century, provide the aesthetic touches, and himself focused on forcing the ball through the gaps. His signature strokes - the slap through point and the flick shot - were on view in abundance, but the one he used repeatedly, and most profitably, was the slog-sweep. Strangely India, much like when Graham Gooch swept them out of the 1987 World Cup, never plugged the gap - Butt and Younis together picked up 84 runs in that region. Piyush Chawla, who had strung together a few decent performances before this game, came under the hammer, finishing with the most expensive spell by an Indian spinner in an ODI.
Sanath Jayasuriya, 125 (114 balls) v India
Asia Cup final, Karachi
India picked up four wickets in the first 12 overs, but Jayasuriya's 114-ball 125, and his 131-run partnership with Tillakaratne Dilshan, utterly changed the complexion of the game. Jayasuriya counterattacked with a pull for six off Ishant Sharma, and hit Irfan Pathan for three fours. Dilshan contributed only four to the first 50 the pair added, from 30 balls. Jayasuriya let rip against RP Singh in the 16th over: Sixes either side of the sightscreen were followed by two wallops over cover, and after a one-ball lull he pulled one over midwicket for six more. Ajantha Mendis then ran riot to bowl Sri Lanka to the title.
Now who's the elephant? Tendulkar plays the peerless upper-cut in a CB Series final © AFP
Yuvraj Singh, 118 (122 balls) v England, Indore
Even better than his 138 in the previous game. England had reduced India to 29 for 3, but Yuvraj led the recovery with a 134-run partnership with Gautam Gambhir and charged India to 292 for 9. Yuvraj hit his stride quickly, glancing a no-ball from Flintoff off his pads for four and pulling the free-hit into the stands at midwicket in the ninth over. Those two balls seemed to settle him down, and thereafter he placed a flurry of pulls and drives into gaps in the outfield to give the innings direction. He took 61 balls for his first fifty; his next 61 balls produced 66 runs as he attacked England's weaker bowlers and peppered the leg side with 12 of the 17 boundaries he hit in all. It was Yuvraj's 10th century, and he became the second Indian (the ninth player overall) to score 1000 or more ODI runs against England.
Sachin Tendulkar, 117* (120 balls) v Australia
First final, CB Series
In 38 previous ODI innings in Australia, Tendulkar had never scored a hundred. He made up with a memorable 117 to help India beat Australia in the first final of the CB Series. In the first 10 overs he only found the boundary once, though he exhibited precise footwork and correct judgment of length. After the early threat of Brett Lee had been negated, Tendulkar turned his attention to the others: Brad Hogg was driven over extra cover for two glorious fours, and Mitchell Johnson was perfectly tipped over slip. All along, Tendulkar pierced the infield, took the singles, and ensured the asking-rate never got beyond control. He cramped towards the end of the innings, which restricted some strokes, but he eventually got to his century with a dab to gully - the celebrations that ensued indicated how special it was.
Shivnarine Chanderpaul, 62* (63 balls) v Sri Lanka, Port-of-Spain
Chanderpaul took West Indies to a thrilling final-ball one-wicket win after they were left needing 10 off two deliveries. He pinged the penultimate ball for a straight boundary, and then swung a Chaminda Vaas full-toss over deep midwicket to seal it. Sri Lanka had seemed to be in control when Dwayne Bravo was run out at 169, still 67 runs short of the target. Chanderpaul then took control and guided the tail. Though he struggled to find the boundary, and the strike in the final stages, he hit a four off the final ball of the 49th over. Only three runs came off the first four balls of the last before the next two went for 10. "I'm happy, I'm very, very happy. I prayed and prayed and asked God to give me the strength to hit that ball out of the ground," he said later.
Shakib Al Hasan, 108 (120 balls) v Pakistan, Multan
Shakib's hundred lifted Bangladesh from a depressing 109 for 8 to a respectable 210 - though it wasn't enough to stop Pakistan running away to a seven-wicket win. Shakib came in at 10 for 3 and continued from where he had left off in the previous ODI, in which he had hit a fine 75. He added 97 runs with Mashrafe Mortaza, who turned the strike over well. Shakib pulled and cover-drove Umar Gul for two boundaries in the 33rd over, and picked singles and twos off Fawad Alam and Shoaib Malik. Never hurried in attack or defence, he finally got to a richly deserved hundred in the 47th over.
Guns N' Kisses: It was England v Yuvraj, and the latter won © AFP
Sachin Tendulkar, 91 (121 balls) v Australia
Second final, CB Series
Twenty-three years after India's last significant limited-overs title in Australia, Tendulkar helped them clinch the CB Series with a determined 91. In nearly three hours of nimble-footed driving, mainly to the off side, interspersed with soft on-side strokes, he treated an appreciative crowd to some fine work. He had a life on 7, when Ricky Ponting dropped a hard reflex catch at short cover, and he made it count. His fifty came up on his 70th delivery, and he went on to ensure India reached 258, which eventually proved a match-winning total.
Chamara Kapugedera, 95 (117 balls) v West Indies, Port-of-Spain
Sri Lanka recovered from 49 for 5 to post a competitive total, thanks to Kapugedera's career-best 95 in a record sixth-wicket stand of 159 with Chamara Silva. Kapugedera accumulated 56 of those runs on the on side, running his singles and twos hard. He expanded his strokeplay in the closing overs, taking two sixes off Sulieman Benn and one off Fidel Edwards, but fell five short of the century. To add insult to injury, he ended up on the losing side, after Chanderpaul won the game with a last-ball six.
Jacob Oram, 88 (91 balls) v England, Auckland
Another losing cause. Oram hit a flamboyant 88 to lift New Zealand from a dire 95 for 6 to 234 against England. On 5, he survived a confident lbw appeal from Ryan Sidebottom, but he shrugged it off to produce an innings of intense power and perfect timing. The highlight of the knock was a stunning square-drive for six off Dimitri Mascarenhas, and consecutive sixes in Stuart Broad's final over. Ian Bell and Paul Collingwood hit 73 and 70 not out respectively to propel England to a six-wicket win.
Features One-day international bowling: the nominees
Features Test batting: the nominees
Features Test bowling: the nominees
Features Ageless and merciless
ESPNcricinfo Awards The ESPNcricinfo Awards 2008
News South Africa and India dominate nominations
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Dobbs Ferry, village (1990 pop. 9,940), Westchester co., SE N.Y., on the Hudson River, a suburb of New York City; inc. 1873. It is mostly residential but has light industries and research facilities. Dobbs Ferry is the site of Livingston Manor, where George Washington and Marshal Rochambeau are said to have planned the Yorktown campaign. Mercy College and the Masters school for girls are there.
The Columbia Encyclopedia, 6th ed.
"Dobbs Ferry ." The Columbia Encyclopedia, 6th ed.. . Encyclopedia.com. 12 Jan. 2021 <https://www.encyclopedia.com>.
"Dobbs Ferry ." The Columbia Encyclopedia, 6th ed.. . Encyclopedia.com. (January 12, 2021). https://www.encyclopedia.com/reference/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/dobbs-ferry
"Dobbs Ferry ." The Columbia Encyclopedia, 6th ed.. . Retrieved January 12, 2021 from Encyclopedia.com: https://www.encyclopedia.com/reference/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/dobbs-ferry
Hackensack , Hackensack, city (1990 pop. 37,049), seat of Bergen co., NE N.J., on the Hackensack River, a residential and industrial suburb of New York City; sett… Troy , Troy (cities, United States) Troy:1 City (1990 pop. 13,051), seat of Pike co., SE Ala., on the Conecuh River; inc. 1843. Products include lumber and… Kingston , Kingston •baton, batten, fatten, flatten, harmattan, Manhattan, Mountbatten, paten, patten, pattern, platen, Saturn, slattern •Shackleton • Appleton… Newton (cities) , newton •baton, batten, fatten, flatten, harmattan, Manhattan, Mountbatten, paten, patten, pattern, platen, Saturn, slattern •Shackleton • Appleton •H… Georgetown , Georgetown Georgetown (cities, United States) Georgetown:1 Town (1990 pop. 11,414), Scott co., N central Ky., in the bluegrass country; settled 1776,… Glencoe , Glencoe (glĕnkō´), valley of the Coe River, Highland, W Scotland. It was the scene of the massacre of the Macdonald clan (Feb., 1692) by the Campbell…
Dobbins, James 1942- (James F. Dobbins)
Dobbins, Georgia (1944–1980)
Dobbin, Murray
Döbber, Johannes
Doane, William H(oward) 1832-1915
Doane, William H(oward)
Doane, Janice (L.) 1950-
Doane, Janice (L.)
Doane, George Hobart
Doane, Doris Chase (1913-)
Doane College: Tabular Data
Doane College: Narrative Description
Doan, Eleanor Lloyd
doan choy
Doak, Wade (Thomas)
DOAE
Doada (fl. 990–1005)
doable
DOA: Dead or Alive
do-while loop
do-si-do
Dobbs, Lou 1945-
Dobbs, Michael
Dobbs, Michael 1950-
Dobell, Cecil Clifford
Doberschuetz-Mey, Gerlinde (1964–)
Dobesova, Bozena (1914–)
Dobias, Václav
Dobie, Kathy
Dobin, Shimon
Dobkin, Eliyahu
Dobkowski, Michael N. 1947-
Doble, Frances (1902–1969)
Dobles Segreda, Luis (1891–1956)
Döblin, Alfred
Dobmeier, Annette (1968–)
Dobo, Katica (fl. 1552)
Dobos, Kálmán
Dobozy, Tamas 1969-
Dobrath
Dobratz, Erin (1982–)
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Audio, radio, music
x Other media
x HTC
x Johnston Press
NBCUniversal International
x YouTube
Google and game streaming: double or quits
Google’s Stadia promises the most credible game streaming service yet, but building a subscription bundle of top titles would require an all-out bet in the sector
Google is building its own game studios – to win over others it must overcome a troubled history in gaming, mitigating risks to developer business models and creative integrity
Games are much more technically demanding to stream than video, presenting an advantage to Google, Microsoft and Amazon – and a boost to telecoms network demand, welcomed by operators
Virtual Reality in 2018: Ready Player None?
Yet another annual hype cycle in 2018 can’t hide a tepid consumer appetite for all VR platforms and heavy weather for the industry as a whole
The launch of Oculus GO, a standalone device at an attractive price, is a milestone for VR; nevertheless, even Facebook remains worried about reach and the state of the industry
Mobile AR is still a strategic focus for Google and Apple, producing diverse applications instead of just games, but new headsets from Microsoft and Magic Leap which promise advanced MR experiences have no launch dates
Media & Telecoms: 2017 & Beyond Conference slides
Enders Analysis co-hosted the annual Media & Telecoms 2017 & Beyond conference in conjunction with Deloitte, Moelis & Company, Linklaters and LionTree, in London on 2 March 2017.
This report contains the slides used by Tom Mockridge, Matthew Kirk, Andrew Griffith, and Geoff Moelis.
Media & Telecoms: 2017 & Beyond Conference transcripts
The day saw over 450 senior attendees come together to listen to 30 leaders and senior executives of some of the most creative and innovative businesses in the media and telecoms sector, and was chaired by David Abraham.
This report provides edited transcripts of the presentations and panels, and you will find accompanying slides for some of the presentations here.
Videos of the presentations are available on the conference website.
360 and Virtual Reality: a new angle for video entertainment
The temporary cool-off in hype around VR following a very buzzy 2016 is not reducing the flow of investment and talent into the industry, notably in video production utilising 360Video technology; setting the stage for the development of a truly new entertainment medium
Fully immersive interactive worlds will continue to be the mainstay of the video games industry, while video entertainment will exist in a multi-track environment, with some genres (news, documentaries , natural history) making 360Video mainstream well before long-form narrative-driven entertainment
2017 will still be a challenging year for consumer device VR roll-out and mass market adoption; Oculus, Google, and Sony continue to seed the market, providing large scale funding and equipment directly to developers and content producers
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Biden elevates science advisor to cabinet role for the first time
Microsoft and Oracle are working on digital COVID-19 vaccine cards
Startup claims its new wearable can monitor blood sugar without needles
Latest in Tomorrow
MIT project turns spray paint into a functional user interface
After Math: Life on the inside
FCC approves $200 million plan to fund COVID-19 telehealth services
Honda will build two EVs based on GM battery technology
Human patient put in suspended animation for the first time
The procedure buys ER surgeons critical extra time.
Rachel England, @rachel_england
Scientists (and sci-fi fans) have been talking about suspended animation for years. The idea that the functions of the human body can somehow be put on "pause" while life-saving medical procedures are performed (or a person is sent into space, a la Alien) has long seemed untenable -- until now. According to New Scientist, doctors have successfully placed humans in suspended animation for the first time, in a trial that could have an enormous influence on the future of emergency room surgery.
The technique is officially called "emergency preservation and resuscitation" (EPR) and is being tested at the University of Maryland Medical Center on patients that arrive with acute trauma, such as a stab wound or gunshot. Given the nature of their injuries, these patients would normally have a survival rate of less than five percent.
With EPR, the patient is cooled rapidly by replacing their blood with ice-cold saline -- the heart stops beating and brain activity almost completely stops. At normal body temperatures, cells need a constant supply of oxygen to remain alive, but the cold temperature slows or stops the chemical reactions in cells, which need less oxygen as a result. The human brain can survive for around five minutes without oxygen before damage occurs, but through EPR a surgical team has two hours to work on the patient's injuries before they're warmed up and their heart is restarted.
According to Samuel Tisherman, part of the team at the Baltimore facility, full results of the trial are expected to be announced by the end of 2020 -- there are still factors to work through. While Tisherman's team has put a cool limit of two hours on a human body, it's not entirely clear exactly how long a person could remain in suspended animation without suffering any physical side effects. Nonetheless, Tisherman says the team is learning a lot as it moves forward with the trial. "I want to make clear that we're not trying to send people off to Saturn," he said. "We're trying to buy ourselves more time to save lives."
Presenter: Dana Wollman
Script: Chris Velazco
Script Editor: Terrence O'Brien
Editor: Kyle Maack
Producer/Camera: Michael Morris
In this article: AOLoriginals, brain, cold, cool, daily show, engadget, Engadget Today, engadget video, entertainment, EPR, heart, human, ice, lifesaving, medicine, spaceflight, surgery, suspended animation, tomorrow
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Home » Design Firms Had Healthy Outlook, Prior To Pandemic
MidAtlanticMid Atlantic Construction CompaniesMidAtlantic Features
Design Firms Had Healthy Outlook, Prior To Pandemic
Perkins Eastman, No. 37 on this year’s ranking, designed the Smith + Nephew Pittsburgh Robotics R&D Center.
PHOTO BY ANDREW RUGGE, COURTESY OF PERKINS EASTMAN
The first academic building for Virginia Tech’s Innovation Campus in Alexandria, Va., was designed by SmithGroup, No. 39 on this year’s ranking.
RENDERING COURTESY OF SMITHGROUP
Justin Rice
KEYWORDS ENR MidAtlantic Top Design Firms
The 2020 ENR MidAtlantic Top Design Firms survey indicates that the region’s architects and engineering firms had healthy positions heading into the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on work performed and billed in 2019, the 129 firms represented in this year’s survey reported a combined $6.3 billion in regional revenue—from work in Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia. That’s a nearly 7% increase from the $5.9 billion recorded by 115 firms on last year’s list.
The $2.4 billion worth of work logged by the top 10 firms on this year’s list, however, was only $100 million more than the revenue posted by last year’s top 10. No. 1 AECOM’s revenue was down 12.5% to $604.65 million, while No. 2 Michael Baker International’s revenue rose 5.5% to $230.80 million. Reporting a 22.3% revenue increase to $224.14 million, third-ranked Stantec swapped places on this year’s survey with Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson Inc., which posted a 3.5% gain, to $219.99 million.
Transportation work paced the firms’ results shown on this year’s list. A total of 79 firms combined to record $2.3 billion in transportation work in 2019. Nearly 40 firms reported that transportation was their top sector, including all but one of the top 10 companies.
Clark Nexsen, ENR MidAtlantic’s 2020 Design Firm of the Year (see p. MA20), ranked 29th on this year’s survey, up from No. 37 last year. The Virginia Beach, Va.-based multidisciplinary architecture and engineering firm’s $53.94 million in revenue on this year’s survey was up more than 21% from last year’s survey.
Seeking insights about what lies ahead, ENR MidAtlantic contacted regional industry leaders. Those who emailed responses are from Herbert, Rowland & Grubic Inc., ranked No. 46 with $36.60 million in revenue; Perkins Eastman, No. 37, with $45.50 million; and SmithGroup, No. 39, with $41.04 million. Responses were received in May and have been edited for space and clarity.
ENR Mid-Atlantic Top Design Firms 2020
How Is COVID-19 affecting your firm?
Jason A. Fralick, president, Herbert, Rowland & Grubic Inc.: Though construction was temporarily halted due to COVID-19, HRG has remained busy serving our clients. We have been talking to them regularly about how to keep moving their projects forward and how to minimize the impact of any delays.
David Varner, vice president, office director–Washington, D.C., SmithGroup: The COVID-19 crisis has hit each of our offices in different ways and in different degrees. We’re redoubling our efforts to work as one company and share the load and new opportunities as much as possible. We’re seeing new work appear and we’re capturing it. It’s very different than 2009 when the phone rang off the hook with bad news for a much larger number of projects.
How have you overcome the challenges of remote work?
Varner: During the early days of [work from home], we heard a lot about our colleagues feeling more productive and focused. Now that we’re a few months into it, we’re hearing that communication is always technically easy but takes extra effort and takes a little more time, so we’re emphasizing that it’s a benefit to compose our thoughts more clearly and succinctly since we’re not face-to-face to hear our colleagues in the same ways as before. … We have five generations in our office, so everyone is in a different situation at home, whereas working in the office was something of an equalizer. We’re encouraging people to keep to a self-made schedule, employ some variation of pretend rituals like dressing and commuting as if you’re going to the office, taking breaks and not feeling guilty when you stop [working].
We’ll find ourselves coming out ahead when we get back to the office, with a clearer sense of purpose, focus and shared vision.
Nicholas Leahy, co-CEO and executive director, Perkins Eastman: “In many ways, it’s probably more efficient now because teams are focused and any site visits are strategic, and in many cases virtual.”
Where do you see the industry headed in the next year?
Fralick: Operations will look very different for the foreseeable future, but we are confident our team will adjust successfully because they have responded so well so far. Our clients will face significant revenue loss from this pandemic, and each sector will respond differently. But we believe we are well suited to help them move existing priorities forward while rising to new challenges that become apparent because of the crisis.
Varner: We seem to be in a time when everyone seems to have claim to a “perfect” approach to the design of all buildings and the systems that support them. I think that we’ll see a more thoughtful approach emerge over time, fueled by evidence-based science [starting to emerge quickly] addressing not only the characteristics of the COVID virus with its high degree of aerosol transmission but also other types of virus transmissions that we need to anticipate for the next awful mutation.
Leahy: “If this industry doesn’t see this as an inflection point, in terms of pushing technology faster and trying some things and being more innovative, than this will be a missed opportunity.”
Recent Articles by Justin Rice
Bedlam at US Capitol Renews Debate Over Permanent Security Fence
Regional Specialty Firms Adjusting to COVID-19 on the Fly
ENR Names 2021 National Top 20 Under 40
Justin Rice is Editor for ENR MidAtlantic and ENR New England
Midwest Top Design Firms Had Stellar 2019, COVID-19 Impact Looms
Region’s Specialty Firms Continue to See Healthy Growth
Pandemic Forces Shifting Outlook, Priorities in Industry
Facing A New Normal Builders Take Stock Of An Altered Outlook
Tweets by ENR_MA
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Life at the migrant centre : ‘Changing lives, that keeps you going’
Posted by FindFood Admin | 6 January 2019 | All Articles, Community, Local News, News Updates
Image Credit : David Castillo Dominici at www.FreeDigitalPhotos.net
It’s a Friday morning in Wolverhampton, and the local branch of the Refugee and Migrant Centre (RMC) is teeming with people seeking advice. Despite the sombre reasons why many come to the RMC (homelessness, destitution, the threat of deportation) there is a jubilant atmosphere.
Babies gurgle and toddlers wheel toy trucks over the floor. Families have come to tell their stories of how the RMC helped them. A colourful display of thank you cards is spread across the wall. “Stay blessed,” says one.
Ahmed Hassan is one of the thousands of people who have benefited from the RMC’s advice. When we meet, he has just been told he will receive a bravery award from West Midlands police for holding back a man who attacked an officer in the street and tried to run away. Hassan has not always been treated with such respect by the British authorities.
He came to England as a refugee from Iraq after fleeing Saddam Hussein’s regime in 2000. He changed his name when he got to Britain for fear of being found. For seven years he lived happily, receiving his British passport in 2007; working as a taxi driver; visiting Iraq frequently and marrying and having four children there. He changed his name back to his birth name, then, in February 2016, the Home Office contacted Hassan to be interviewed over his British citizenship. His British passport, which he had sent to be renewed, still has not been handed back.
PreviousPoverty and ill health: Ugly bedfellows blighting millions of lives
NextChristmas at a foodbank : How austerity-hit Britain celebrated the holidays
Poverty in the UK is grim, but there are rays of light too
Morrisons hits milestone of 100,000 meals to FareShare
Young people call for watchdog to tackle child food insecurity
Childhood poverty can undermine mental health in adulthood
Guardian : Communities
'A glimmer of hope': four Britons share their Covid vaccine stories
Tories' London mayoral candidate criticised for comments that 'attack working class families'
Is the boom in communal living really the good life?
How UK taxpayers can avoid falling into the child benefit trap
John Taylor obituary
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Instinet
Instinet completes acquisition of ProTrader
Instinet has completed the acquisition of ProTrader Group, a provider of trading technologies and electronic brokerage services primarily for retail active traders and hedge funds. The acquisition excludes ProTrader's proprietary trading business.
Instinet acquired ProTrader for $100 million in cash and 5.02 million shares of common stock valued at $50 million. The deal, first announced in mid-July, closed yesterday.
The acquisition will expand Instinet's reach into the hedge fund market and retail active trader segments by providing a full-service offering with front end technology, executions, and back-office operations.
Jay McEntire, CEO of ProTrader, says: "ProTrader will continue to focus its efforts and services on supporting semi-professional and professional active traders, as well as actively traded hedge fund portfolios with less than $100 million under management."
ProTrader's proprietary trading business has been spun off into two independent operations, namely Zone Trading Partners and Zone Equity Partners. In the fourth quarter, Instinet Clearing Services. (ICS) will become the correspondent clearing facility for ProTrader. The two proprietary entities will be customers of ProTrader and will enter into an agreement with ICS to clear their trades.
Sponsored: 2021 Analysis of Cloud Service Providers - Take the Survey >
Instinet earnings hit by WTC and falling volumes
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Historical Research Foundation
Evita Perón Biography
Evita's World
The Defining Years 1919-1947
Eva Perón’s legacy has left her shrouded in myth. The English-speaking world has known her primarily through the distorted lens of opposition politics—-until now.
The first volume of the most in-depth biography to date, Evita’s World: The Defining Years covers 1919 to 1947. Beginning with Evita’s birth as an illegitimate child with no legal rights, it documents her childhood, her career as an actress, her marriage to Juan Perón and his election as President. In fascinating detail, it chronicles how Evita went to Europe in 1947 as Argentina’s unofficial “ambassador of peace” and how Europe changed Evita. When she returned, she obtained the right to vote for Argentina’s women.
Packed with background information about the complex political and social climate from which Peronism sprang, Evita’s World: The Defining Years chronicles the rise of an extraordinary political figure during a turbulent time in Argentina and the world.
Dolane Larson
As a young girl growing up in Michigan, Dolane Larson found Evita Perón fascinating. Upon discovering that the biographical information available at the time didn’t convey the truth about Evita’s life, decided to go to Argentina, investigate, and write a balanced biography.
Ms. Larson obtained a scholarship to study in Buenos Aires. She taught English at a bilingual school in the Belgrano neighborhood, where she met Evita’s mother and other family members. They became friends and have remained in contact through the years.
Eventually she returned to the United States, and, after retiring as an English teacher, she began organizing the voluminous material collected on three continents in preparation for writing this book.
Why Evita's World ?
Evita’s World offers a break-away biography: it does not recycle inaccurate or untrue versions of Evita’s life.
Evita’s World makes available for the first time oral history interviews from theInstituto Nacional de Investigaciones Históricas Eva Perón (INIHEP) and other primary sources available only in Spanish.
Evita’s World quotes eye-witnesses, including family members.
Evita’s World shows how events shaped Evita and how Evita changed Argentina in a world without space travel, internet, smartphones or easy access to television.
Evita Perón Historical Research Foundation
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CelebritiesPopularAnnabel Beam: Top 10 Must-Know Facts About Person
Annabel Beam: Top 10 Must-Know Facts About Person
Annabel Beam (Person) was born on the 10th of September, 2002. She was born in 2000s, in Generation Z. Her birth sign is Virgo and her life path number is 5. Annabel’s birth flower is Aster/Myosotis and birthstone is Sapphire. What does this all mean? Let’s find out!
Discover all the facts that no one tells you about Annabel Beam below ↓
NAME: Annabel Beam
FULL NAME: Annabel Beam
NICKNAME: Annabel
PROFESSION: Person
BIRTHPLACE: Fort Worth
Annabel Beam, best known for being a Person, was born in Fort Worth on Tuesday, September 10, 2002. Subject of the film Miracles from Heaven who claims to have visited heaven, where she met Jesus Christ, after falling 30 feet headfirst inside a hollowed out tree. She was knocked unconscious, but was without a scratch upon waking up, and even awoke cured of her two supposedly incurable disorders.
Family: She and her sisters Abigail and Adelynn were born to parents Christy and Kevin Beam. Annabel Beam father’s name is Under review and mother unknown at this time. We will continue to update details on Annabel Beam’s family.
Dating: According to CelebsCouples, Annabel Beam is single .
Net Worth: Online estimates of Annabel Beam’s net worth vary. It’s easy to predict her income, but it’s much harder to know how much she has spent over the years. CelebsMoney does a good job of breaking most of it down.
2. Annabel Beam’s zodiac sign is Virgo
Annabel Beam zodiac sign is a Virgo. Dates of Virgo are August 23 - September 22. Those born under the Virgo zodiac sign have capable, organized and analytical minds, which often makes them a pleasure to chat with. Even when they have rather fantastic stories, the charming way they tell them can make those stories convincing. They are modest, humble, orderly, altruistic, logical, responsible, and organized. Although, they can be obsessive, critical, excessive attention to insignificant details, and perfectionist.
BORN IN THE YEAR OF THE: Horse
RULING PLANET: Mercury
The person has been alive for 6,706 days days or 160,956 hours hours. There were precisely 227 full moons after her birth to this day.
BORN ON: Tuesday
GENERATION: Generation Z
Annabel Beam was born on a Tuesday. People born on Tuesdays come with a fiery, fighting spirit. They are brave, impatient, energetic, active, and driven to succeed, sometimes to a fault.
Countdown to Annabel Beam’s next birthday.
Annabel Beam will be turning 19.
4. On Annabel Beam’s birthday
The world’s population was 6,302,149,639 and there were an estimated 132,115,603 babies born throughout the world in 2002, George W. Bush (Republican) was the US President, and the number one song on Billboard 100 was "Dilemma" by Nelly Featuring Kelly Rowland.
1776 – George Washington asks for a spy volunteer, Nathan Hale volunteers.
1846 – Elias Howe takes out a US patent for a lockstitch sewing machine.
1924 – Leopold and Loeb found guilty of the murder of Robert Franks in Chicago in the "the crime of the century".
5. Annabel Beam’s stats
We’re currently in process of confirming all details such as Annabel Beam’s height, weight, and other stats. If there is any information missing, we will be updating this page soon. If you any have tips or corrections, please send them our way.
6. The Year of the Horse
Annabel Beam was born in the Year of the Horse. People with Chinese zodiac Horse zodiac sign like entertainment and large crowds. They are usually popular among friends. Their strengths are clever, kind to others, perceptive, and talented. But they can also talk too much and stubborn. Their lucky numbers are 2, 3, 7, and lucky colors are brown, yellow, purple.
7. Annabel Beam’s life path number is 5
Life Path Number 5 represent 'The Free Spirit'. Those who walk a Life Path with Number 5 have an uncanny ability to understand the deepest esoteric & metaphysical teachings. 5 turns the mystical into the norm. Its energy is that of Experience. The values are adventure, movement, change. The challenges are to find some kind of daily structure that works for you.
8. Generation Z
Annabel Beam was born in the middle of Generation Z.
9. Annabel Beam’s birthstone is Sapphire
Sapphire was once thought to guard against evil and poisoning. It was believed that a venomous snake would die if placed in a vessel made of sapphire.
10. Annabel Beam’s birth flower is Aster/Myosotis
Aster is known as a talisman of love and an enduring symbol of elegance.
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Aussie Rules Michael Rischitelli EXPERIENCE
Michael Rischitelli is a former Australian rules footballer who played for the Gold Coast Football Club in the Australian Football League. He previously played for the Brisbane Lions.
Listed at #17 on the SUNS’ all-time playing list, which was done alphabetically in game one and in appearance order since then, he has seen the list grow to now 116 players after the debut of Caleb Graham in Round 21. Remarkably, on the day Rischitelli joined the AFL on 24 November 2003 Graham was only six weeks beyond his third birthday.He really has spent a lifetime in football!
A 1hr appearance with Mike at your next function or event.
Rischa tells the club
Get a glimpse of what footy is all about!
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Drive-thru COVID-19 testing center now open
A pilot project drive-thru testing center is now open for anyone who qualifies with COVID-19 symptoms.
The facility is located at the Walmart Home Office’s west parking lot at 702 SW 8th Street in Bentonville, but those who’d like to be tested must first make an appointment at www.MyQuestCOVIDTest.com.
Those who meet the CDC testing criteria will receive an appointment confirmation. The drive-thru is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., but patients are asked to arrive no sooner than 10 minutes before their scheduled appointment.
Patients should also bring an insurance card and valid photo ID for proof of identity, according to a post on the City of Bentonville’s Facebook page.
Those being tested must arrive in a vehicle and stay inside the vehicle during the testing process. Walk-up appointments are not allowed.
The project is a partnership between the state of Arkansas, Walmart and Quest Laboratories. The center is for first responders, healthcare workers, and anyone else who meets the CDC criteria.
If the pilot project is successful, Gov. Asa Hutchinson said the hope is that more drive-thru centers can be opened in other parts of the state.
As of Sunday night, the number of positive statewide COVID-19 patients had reached 1280. There have been 27 total deaths related to COVID-19 in Arkansas, and 367 recoveries.
Case update: Arkansas COVID-19 cases increase by 1,109 Monday
Case update: Arkansas COVID-19 cases increase by 2,467 Wednesday, deaths up 65
Case update: Arkansas COVID-19 cases increase by 1,268
Collier Drug Store encourages locals in priority groups to sign up to receive COVID-19 vaccine
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Updated on : Sunday, December 27, 2020, 5:22 PM IST
Auto drivers by day, thieves by night: Recently out of jail, duo caught robbing mobile shop in Bhayandar
By Suresh Golani
Two history sheeters, who were recently released from Thane jail, were arrested by the police for their involvement in a break-in which they committed at a mobile shop in Bhayandar (east) during the wee hours of Thursday (December 24).
Interestingly, the duo ferried passengers in an auto-rickshaw during the day and turned robbers in the night. The auto-rickshaw was used to recce their targets and also as a getaway vehicle to escape with the stolen booty.
According to the police the break-in was reported from Zikra Mobiles- a mobile and accessories stores located in the Ramdev Park area of Bhayandar (east). The thieves who gained access into the shop by breaking open the shutter had managed to decamp with new and old mobile handsets worth more than Rs 1.30 lakh.
A joint team comprising officials from the Navghar police station and their counterparts in the Crime Branch (unit I) led by Police Inspector Jitendra Vankotti, immediately swung into action and started investigations into the case.
While the image of one of the thieves was captured in the CCTV cameras installed in the shop, another CCTV image pointed the finger of suspicion towards an auto-rickshaw which was spotted on the getaway route.
On the virtue of a robust informer network supported by an advanced technical surveillance system, the police team apprehended the duo identified as Naeem Khaleel Ansari and Aliraj Sainur Khan, within 24 hours of the crime.
Investigations revealed that the accused had recently stepped out of jail after serving imprisonment following conviction in a similar offence in the Navghar area of Bhayandar.
“The duo have confessed to their involvement in seven more break-ins in Mira Road, Bhayandar and Borivali. While the auto-rickshaw used in the crime has been seized, we have also recovered 57 stolen mobiles worth around Rs 1.10 lakh from the duo’s possession,” said Police Inspector Sampatrao Patil.
A case under sections 354 and 357 of the IPC has been registered against the duo who have been remanded to custody, police said. Further investigations were underway.
Navghar Police Station
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Updated on : Thursday, December 10, 2020, 9:02 AM IST
Donald Trump to intervene in Texas election fraud lawsuit
By ANI
US President Donald Trump
Washington [US]: US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said that he will be intervening in a case brought by the state in Texas against other battleground states alleging election fraud in the recent presidential elections.
"We will be INTERVENING in the Texas (plus many other states) case. This is the big one. Our Country needs a victory!" Trump tweeted.
We will be INTERVENING in the Texas (plus many other states) case. This is the big one. Our Country needs a victory!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 9, 2020
The Hill reported that it was not immediately clear if Trump planned to intervene in his personal capacity or if his campaign would get involved.
On Tuesday, Texas announced that it will file a lawsuit in the Supreme Court against four battleground states in an effort to halt presidential electors from finalising President-elect Joe Biden's victory.
US elections 2020: Donald Trump falsely claims he won Georgia
Texas Attorney-General Ken Paxton alleged that the new voting processes in the four states skewed the election results, and further asked the Supreme Court to delay Monday's deadline for the Electoral College to make Biden's victory official, reported The Hill.
The announcement comes as President Donald Trump continues to repeatedly question the legitimacy of Biden's win, accusing fraud and impropriety in the elections, and seeking recounts in several states, despite election officials in battleground states having already certified Biden's victory in the presidential polls.
Donald Trump tells Georgia supporters vaccines against COVID-19 to become available next week
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Daoxin Xie
Tsinghua University, China
Enamul Huq
University of Texas at Austin, United States
Hsu-Liang Hsieh
National Taiwan University, Taiwan
Shangwei Zhong
Open Supplemental Data
Front. Plant Sci., 18 January 2018 | https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2017.02273
Functional Characterization of the Maize Phytochrome-Interacting Factors PIF4 and PIF5
Qingbiao Shi†, Haisen Zhang†, Xiaoyi Song, Yu’e Jiang, Ran Liang and Gang Li*
State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
Phytochrome-interacting factors (PIFs) play important roles in photomorphogenesis, the shade avoidance response, and other aspects of plant growth and development. PIF family proteins have been well-studied in Arabidopsis thaliana, but little is known about their physiological functions and molecular mechanisms in maize (Zea mays). In this study, we investigated the physiological functions of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5, two highly conserved members of the PIF gene family. RT-qPCR and western blot analyses revealed that ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 expression and ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 levels peak at night and remain low during the day. Overexpression of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 in Arabidopsis partially rescued the reduced hypocotyl elongation and defective response to gravity in pif1 pif3 pif4 pif5 quadruple mutants (pifq). In addition, under high red: far-red light conditions, Arabidopsis lines overexpressing ZmPIF4 exhibited a constitutive shade avoidance response, including early flowering, slender leaves and inflorescences, plant lodging and precocious leaf senescence. Furthermore, ZmPIF4 physically interacted with the Arabidopsis DELLA protein REPRESSOR OF GA1-3 (RGA), indicating a potential interaction between ZmPIF4 and gibberellin signaling pathway on plant growth. Taken together, our results revealed that ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 are functionally conserved proteins that may play conserved roles in the response to phytochrome signaling in plants.
In this study, the functions of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 were characterized by expression in Arabidopsis, revealing conserved roles of PIF family proteins in photomorphogenesis and the shade avoidance response in land plants.
Shade avoidance is mainly triggered by the reduced ratio of R:FR, which is sensed by the phytochrome family of photoreceptors (Franklin et al., 2003; Casal, 2013). The phytochrome family of Arabidopsis thaliana includes five members (phyA–phyE), and phyB is the primarily photoreceptor involved in the shade avoidance response (Franklin et al., 2003; Li et al., 2011). Under high R:FR light conditions, active phyB translocates into the nucleus and interacts with multiple downstream signaling proteins to mediate light-regulated changes in plant growth and development (Quail, 1991; Kami et al., 2010; Hornitschek et al., 2012). Under low R:FR conditions, phyB is largely inactivated and located in the cytosol (Kircher et al., 1999). Disruption of phyB in Arabidopsis, or both phyB1 and phyB2 in maize, caused constitutive shade avoidance response, even under high R:FR conditions (Robson et al., 1993; Sheehan et al., 2007).
Phytochrome-interacting factors (PIFs) are basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factors that are involved in seed germination, photomorphogenesis, shade responses, flowering time, and leaf senescence (Leivar and Quail, 2011; Casal, 2013; Sakuraba et al., 2014). As critical factors act at downstream of phyB, they positively regulate the shade avoidance response (Josse et al., 2008; Leivar and Quail, 2011). Comparison of the protein sequences of PIF family members has shown that they have evolutionarily conserved bHLH domains located at the C-terminal and these domains function in DNA binding and dimer formation. In addition to the bHLH domain, PIFs also have active phytochrome A binding domains (APA) and/or active phytochrome B binding domains (APB) at the N-terminal. Biochemical analyses have revealed that PIFs physically interact with phyA or phyB through their APA or APB domains, respectively (Choi et al., 1999; Castillon et al., 2007; Shen et al., 2008). Under high R:FR light conditions, the interaction between PIFs and phyB leads to PIF phosphorylation, ubiquitination, and then degradation via the 26S proteasome (Lorrain et al., 2008). Under low R:FR light conditions, PIFs promotes cell elongation by increasing the transcription of growth-promoting genes (Paik et al., 2017).
Multiple PIFs family proteins (PIF1, PIF3, PIF4, PIF5, PIF7) have been well-characterized in Arabidopsis thaliana. Disruption of PIF1, PIF3, PIF4, and PIF5 (the pifq quadruple mutant) causes constitutive photomorphogenesis under dark conditions and reduces the sensitively to shade signals (Leivar et al., 2008). Overexpression of AtPIF4 and AtPIF5 leads to a constitutive shade avoidance response, with plants displaying long hypocotyls and petioles, even under high R:FR conditions (Lorrain et al., 2008). PIF4, PIF5, and PIF7 directly regulate the expression of these genes that promote cell elongation and mediate the response to shade signals (Hornitschek et al., 2012; Li et al., 2012; Sakuraba et al., 2014). Genome-wide analyses of PIF targets have revealed that PIFs directly target 100s of genes involved in auxin homeostasis (TAA1 and YUC), signaling responses (GH3, IAA, and ARF), cell wall modification and elongation (EXB, XTH) (Zhang et al., 2013; Pfeiffer et al., 2014).
In addition to the auxin signaling pathway, PIFs are thought to be involved in a variety of hormone-response pathways, including gibberellin (GA), brassinosteroid (BR), jasmonic acid (JA), ethylene, and nitric oxide (Lau and Deng, 2010; Mazzella et al., 2014; Paik et al., 2017). For instance, GA can induce the expression of PIFs by promoting the degradation of DELLAs via the 26S proteasome system. In the DELLA mutant, exogenous GA prolongs hypocotyl elongation in the dark (Dill et al., 2001; Tyler et al., 2004; Li et al., 2016).
Although PIF family proteins have been identified as playing important roles in many aspects of growth in Arabidopsis, little is known about their physiological roles in other plants. There are about 300 putative members of the bHLH family existed in maize, of which about 200 putative members have the complete bHLH domain (Kumar et al., 2016). Previous studies have shown that ZmPIF3.1 (GRMZM2G115960) and ZmPIF3.2 (GRMZM2G387528) physically interact with the Pfr form of ZmphyB1, and ZmPIF3.1 can also interact with the Pfr of phyB of Arabidopsis (Kumar et al., 2016). Over-expression of ZmPIF3 (ZmPIF3.2) in rice (Oryza sativa) can enhance tolerance to drought and salt stress (Gao et al., 2015). These results show that ZmPIFs play important roles in phytochrome signal transduction and plant growth. However, the physiological and biochemical functions of other ZmPIFs are still unclear. In this study, we conducted a genome-wide analysis to identify 15 putative PIF family proteins in maize. We also cloned the genes encoding two ZmPIF family members from the maize inbred line B73 and transformed them into the Arabidopsis wild-type Col-0 and the Arabidopsis quadruple pifq mutant, to determine their roles in the shade avoidance response in plants.
Plant Materials and Growth Conditions
The Arabidopsis thaliana pifq quadruple mutant (pif1, pif3, pif4, pif5) used in this study was described by Shin et al. (2009), and the wild-type control plants used in this study were Arabidopsis ecotype Columbia-0 (Col-0). Arabidopsis seeds were surface-sterilized with 20% bleach for 20 min and then washed four times with sterile distilled-deionized H2O. After vernalization for 2 days at 4°C, seeds were germinated on GM plates (4.74 g/L Murashige and Skoog [MS] salts, 10 g/L 1% sucrose, 0.5 g/L MES, 8 g/L agar, pH 5.8). Generally, the Arabidopsis plants were grown under long-day conditions (16 h light/8 h dark, light intensity 100 μmol m-2 s-1, 22°C).
Seedlings of maize inbred line B73 and Nicotiana benthamiana were grown in growth chambers under a 12-h light/12-h dark cycle at 210 μmol m-2 s-1 of light at 28°C. Two weeks after planting, seedlings of maize inbred line B73 were transferred to constant light conditions and then harvested at different Zeitgeber times to measure the diurnal expression of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5. Three weeks after planting, seedlings of the maize inbred line B73 were harvested and separated into roots, coleoptiles, stems, and leaves for detection of the tissue expression patterns of ZmPIFs.
Total RNA Extraction and RT-qPCR Assays
Plant total RNA was extracted with an Ultrapure RNA Kit (CWBIO, China) following the manufacturer’s instructions. The first-strand cDNA was synthesized using EasyScript One-Step gDNA Removal and cDNA Synthesis SuperMix (TransGEN Biotech, China). The cDNA was then diluted to 60 ng/μL and 2 μL was used for qPCR. Quantitative PCR was performed using UltraSYBR Mixture (CWBIO, China) in an ABI QuantStudio 6 Flex Real-Time PCR System (ABI). The RT-qPCR procedure was described in Ma et al. (2016). The expression level of UBIQUITIN1 and 18S rRNA were used as internal controls for RT-qPCR in Arabidopsis and maize, respectively. Plant material for RT-qPCR was collected from three biological replicates, and three technical replicates were performed for each experiment.
Starch Staining and Gravitropism in Arabidopsis
Seedlings of Col-0, pifq mutants, and transgenic lines of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 were grown on medium in the dark for 4 days, and then the direction of gravity was changed by 90° and the bending angle of the hypocotyl elongation zone was measured every hour using ImageJ program. The contents of amyloplasts in the endodermis of the hypocotyl elongation zone and the columella cells in the root cap of these seedlings were detected by I2–KI staining following the method described by Ma et al. (2017).
Plasmid Construction and Generation of Transgenic Plants of Arabidopsis
To generate transgenic ZmPIF4-OE and ZmPIF5-OE lines in the pifq or wild-type Col-0 background, the coding regions of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 were PCR-amplified from cDNA of the maize inbred line B73 with the primer pairs ZmPIF4-F and ZmPIF4-R, and ZmPIF5-F and ZmPIF5-R (see Supplementary Table S2 for more information on all of the primers used in this study). The fragments of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 were then inserted into a BamHI and SpeI digested pPZP211-35Spro::3FLAG empty binary vector (Ma et al., 2016) to produce 35Spro::ZmPIF4-3FLAG and 35Spro:ZmPIF5-3FLAG. Finally, these two plasmids were transformed into the pifq mutant plants and the Col-0 plants, to generate ZmPIF4-OE/pifq, ZmPIF5-OE/pifq, ZmPIF4-OE, and 35Spro:ZmPIF5-OE lines. More than 20 independent lines of each transformation were selected with kanamycin and verified by RT-qPCR and western blot assays. The procedure for the western blot was described previously (Ma et al., 2017). All immunoblots were repeated at least twice and a representative experiment is shown (Supplementary Figure S5).
Subcellular Localization of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5
Plasmids 35Spro::ZmPIF4-GFP and 35Spro:ZmPIF5-GFP were generated by PCR-amplifying the coding region of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 from 35Spro::ZmPIF4-3FLAG or 35Spro:ZmPIF5-3FLAG using primer pairs GFP-ZmPIF4-F and GFP-ZmPIF4-R, and GFP-ZmPIF5-F and GFP-ZmPIF5-R. The fragments containing the coding region of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 were then inserted into pPZP211-35Spro::GFP digested with BamHI and XbaI. The various plasmids were then transformed into the Agrobacterium strain GV3101 and infiltrated into leaves of N. benthamiana together with the 35Spro::H2B-Cherry (Howe et al., 2012). Three days after infiltration, the N. benthamiana plants were transferred into dark conditions for 12 h, the lower epidermis of the infiltrated leaf was peeled, and the fluorescence signals were observed with a two-photon laser confocal microscope (Zeiss).
For subcellular localization analysis of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 in protoplasts, 30-day-old Arabidopsis wild-type plants (Col-0) grown under short day (8-h light/16-h dark) conditions were used to isolate the protoplasts. Plasmids 35Spro::ZmPIF4-GFP and 35Spro:ZmPIF5-GFP were transformed into the protoplasts using PEG method (Yoo et al., 2007). Incubated for 18 h in darkness to allow the constructs to be expressed, and then the fluorescent signals were observed with a laser confocal microscope (Zeiss).
Yeast Two-Hybrid Assay
The plasmids pGBKT7-ZmPIF4 and pGBKT7-ZmPIF5 were generated by PCR-amplifying the coding region of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 from 35Spro::ZmPIF4-3FLAG and 35Spro::ZmPIF5-3FLAG using the primer pairs ADBD-ZmPIF4-F and ADBD- ZmPIF4-R, and ADBD-ZmPIF5-F and ADBD-ZmPIF5-R. The fragments containing the coding region of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 were inserted into pGBKT7 (Clontech) digested with BamHI and NdeI to produce pGBKT7-ZmPIF4 and pGBKT7-ZmPIF5.
The plasmid pGADT7-RGA was generated by PCR-amplifying the coding region of RGA from Arabidopsis Col-0 with the primer pair ADBD-RGA-F and ADBD-RGA-R. Then, the fragment containing the RGA coding region was inserted into pGADT7 (Clontech) digested with BamHI and SacI to produce pGADT7-RGA. The yeast two-hybrid procedure was performed following the manufacturer’s instructions (Clontech).
Luciferase Complementation Imaging Assays
The plasmids nLUC-ZmPIF4, cLUC-ZmPIF4, nLUC-ZmPIF5, and cLUC-ZmPIF5 were generated by PCR-amplifying the coding regions of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 from 35Spro::ZmPIF4-3FLAG and 35Spro::ZmPIF5-3FLAG using the primer pairs LCI- ZmPIF4-F and LCI-ZmPIF4-R, and LCI-ZmPIF5-F and LCI-ZmPIF5-R. The fragments containing the coding regions of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 were inserted into KpnI and BamHI digested pCAMBIA1300-nLUC and pCAMBIA1300-cLUC vectors (Chen et al., 2008) to produce nLUC-ZmPIF4, cLUC-ZmPIF4, nLUC-ZmPIF5, and cLUC-ZmPIF5. The coding region of RGA was PCR-amplified from pGADT7-RGA with the primer pair LCI-RGA-F and LCI-RGA-R, and inserted into KpnI and SalI digested pCAMBIA1300-nLUC and pCAMBIA1300-cLUC vectors to produce nLUC-RGA and cLUC-RGA. Each of the nLUC- or cLUC- fused plasmids was transformed into Agrobacterium strain GV3101 and then infiltrated into leaves of N. benthamiana. Three days after infiltration the infiltrated plants were transferred into darkness for 12 h and the luciferase activity was measured using an in vivo imaging system (XENOGEN) with potassium luciferin as the substrate.
Bimolecular Fluorescence Complementation (BiFC) Assay
To generate plasmids ZmPIF4-YFPN and RGA-YFPC, ZmPIF4 and RGA were amplified with the primer pairs YFP-ZmPIF4-F and YFP-ZmPIF4-R, and YFP-RGA-F and YFP-RGA-R. Full-length cDNAs of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 were subcloned into the TOPO vectors and then recombined into pSITE-nEYFP and pSITE-cEYFP (Martin et al., 2009), respectively. The plasmids ZmPIF4-YFPN and RGA-YFPC were then transformed into the Agrobacterium strain GV3101 and infiltrated into leaves of N. benthamiana. Three days after infiltration, the fluorescent signals were observed with a laser confocal microscope (Zeiss).
Identification and Classification of PIF Family Proteins in Maize
To identify the putative PIFs family proteins in maize, we performed BLASTP analysis using the PIF protein sequences of Arabidopsis as query sequences. This identified 15 putative ZmPIF family proteins in maize (Supplementary Table S1). A phylogenetic tree with the protein sequences of PIF family proteins from Arabidopsis and maize showed that the putative ZmPIFs were closely related to AtPIFs (Figure 1A). Analysis of the conservation of the protein sequence of each putative PIF showed that seven proteins (ZmbHLH16, ZmbHLH27, ZmbHLH36, ZmbHLH76, ZmbHLH115, ZmbHLH165, and ZmbHLH198) have a highly-conserved APB domain, and three (ZmbHLH76, ZmbHLH165, and ZmbHLH198) have a highly-conserved APA domain (Figure 1B). Both APA and APB domains were also identified in the ZmPIF3.1 and ZmPIF3.2, two previously reported PIF family proteins in maize encoded by ZmbHLH76 and ZmbHLH165, respectively (Figure 1B, left lower panel). Multiple alignments with the full-length protein sequences of AtPIF4, AtPIF5, ZmbHLH16, ZmbHLH27, and the putative PIF4 and PIF5 proteins in other land plants showed that ZmbHLH16 (GRMZM5G865967) and ZmbHLH27 (GRMZM2G165042) are very similar to AtPIF4 and AtPIF5 (Figure 1C and Supplementary Figure S1). ZmbHLH16 and ZmbHLH27 were therefore renamed ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5, respectively.
FIGURE 1. Sequence comparison of PIF family proteins in maize and Arabidopsis. (A) Phylogenetic tree of PIFs, PIF-like and bHLH family proteins in Zea mays (Zm) and Arabidopsis thaliana (At). The neighbor-joining method was used to construct the phylogenetic tree. The boxes with the red dashed line indicate the clade containing ZmPIF3, ZmPIF4, and ZmPIF5. (B) Multiple sequence alignment of bHLH (top panel), APA (left, lower panel), and APB (right, lower panel) domains of PIF family proteins. Asterisks, conserved amino acids. (C) Multiple sequence alignment of the protein sequences of AtPIF4, AtPIF5, ZmPIF4 (ZmbHLH16), and ZmPIF5 (ZmbHLH27). The conserved bHLH and APB domains are underlined.
Analysis of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 Expression and Protein Subcellular Localization
RT-qPCR analysis showed that both ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 are expressed in the roots, stems, coleoptiles, and leaves at the six-leaf stage (Figure 2A). Under 12 h light/12 h dark diurnal conditions, RT-qPCR analysis also demonstrated that ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 have similar temporal expression patterns, with their transcript levels increasing overnight, peaking at dawn, and decreasing during the day (Figure 2B). In addition, to verify whether the transcript level of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 is regulated by R or FR light, three-leaf stage seedlings of maize inbred line B73 grown under white light conditions were transferred to FR light for 1 h and then transferred to R light for various times. RT-qPCR analyses revealed that the ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 transcript levels were rapidly induced by FR light, but repressed by R light (Supplementary Figure S2A).
FIGURE 2. Gene expression and protein subcellular localization of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5. RT-qPCR analysis indicated that ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 are expressed in multiple tissues (A), and expressed at high levels at dawn and low levels at dusk (B). Six-leaf stage seedling plants of maize inbred line B73 were used to harvest different tissues (A), or whole plants were harvested at different times (B), and then used to perform RT-qPCR analysis. The 18S ribosomal RNA was used as an internal control for RT-qPCR analysis. Data are means and SD of three independent biological replicates. (C) Transient expression analysis in Arabidopsis protoplasts indicated that ZmPIF4-GFP and ZmPIF5-GFP localize in the nucleus. The expression of H2B-mCherry was used to show the position of the nucleus. Scale bar: 20 μm.
Further, we investigated the protein subcellular localization of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 in Arabidopsis protoplasts and N. benthamiana epidermal cells. As shown in Figure 2C and Supplementary Figure S2B, the florescent signals of ZmPIF4-GFP and ZmPIF5-GFP fusion proteins were only observed in the nucleus. This suggests that both ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 localize in the nucleus, consistent with a potential function as transcription factors.
Overexpression of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 Partially Rescued the Phenotype of Arabidopsis pifq Mutants
In Arabidopsis, the pifq quadruple mutant displays a constitutive photomorphogenic phenotype under continuous dark conditions, including short hypocotyls, open cotyledons, and the loss of negative gravitropism (Shin et al., 2009). To examine whether ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 could have PIF function, we tested whether they could complement the pifq phenotype by generating ZmPIF4-OE/pifq and ZmPIF5-OE/pifq plants. RT-qPCR analysis showed that the transcripts of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 were present at high levels in the transgenic ZmPIF4-OE/pifq and ZmPIF5-OE/pifq plants (Figure 3E). The hypocotyl length of pifq was significantly shorter than that of Col-0, consistent with previous reports (Leivar et al., 2008). When ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 were over-expressed in the pifq background, their hypocotyls were significantly elongated relative to pifq (Figures 3A–D). The cotyledons were completely closed in ZmPIF4-OE4/pifq and ZmPIF4-OE5/pifq, and only some of the plants in the ZmPIF5 transgenic line had open cotyledons. This may be related to the level of protein expression. The partial complementation supports the hypothesis that both ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 have physiological functions similar to those of AtPIF4 and AtPIF5.
FIGURE 3. Overexpression of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 partially rescued the reduced hypocotyl elongation of the pifq mutant in Arabidopsis. Overexpression of ZmPIF4 (A,B) and ZmPIF5 (C,D) partially rescued the reduced hypocotyl elongation of pifq mutants under continuous dark conditions in Arabidopsis. (A,C) The phenotype of 4-day-old dark-grown transgenic lines of ZmPIF4-OE (OE4 and OE5) and ZmPIF5-OE (OE1 and OE22) in the pifq mutant background. Scale bar: 3 mm. (B,D) The quantification of hypocotyl length of the seedling plants showed in (A,C), respectively. Data represent the mean and SD of at least 30 seedlings. Statistical significance analyses were performed between the transgenic plants and pifq mutant plants. ∗P < 0.05; ∗∗P < 0.01. (E) RT-qPCR analyses revealed that ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 were highly expressed in Arabidopsis plants overexpressing ZmPIF4 (left panel) and ZmPIF5 (right panel) in the pifq mutant background. Four-day-old seedling plants were used to perform RT-qPCR analysis. UBQ1 was used as the internal control for RT-qPCR analysis. Data are means and SD of three independent biological replicates. Western blot analyses of transgenic Arabidopsis plants revealed that the ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 proteins accumulated to high levels at midnight (F, ZT20), and were induced by darkness (G). Seven-day-old seedlings of ZmPIF4-OE4/pifq and ZmPIF5-OE1/pifq grown under LD conditions (16-h light/8-h dark) were harvested at different times (F), or transferred from light conditions (at ZT4) to darkness for 4, 8, 12 h (G), and then used to perform western blot analysis. ACTIN was used as the internal control for western blots. CK, control plant; ∗, non-specific bands.
Next, we investigated whether the ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 proteins are light labile using the Arabidopsis transgenic lines expressing ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5. As shown in Figure 3F, ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 proteins accumulate to high levels at night, peak at ZT20, and are present at low levels during the day. Furthermore, we checked whether the levels of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 proteins are more stable under dark conditions. The ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 transgenic seedlings were transferred from light (at ZT4) to darkness for various times and then used to perform western blots. As shown in Figure 3G, the accumulation of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 proteins increased in the darkness. All these results indicate that ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 might be light labile and subject to degradation during the day, similar to AtPIF4 and AtPIF5.
Overexpression of ZmPIF4 Partially Rescued the Negative Gravitropism Response of pifq Hypocotyls
In the Arabidopsis pifq mutant, the negative gravitropism of hypocotyls is completely disrupted in dark conditions (Kim et al., 2011). Overexpression of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 partially restored the negative gravitropism of hypocotyls in darkness, especially in ZmPIF4-OE/pifq (Figure 4A). This was further supported by growing seedlings of Col-0, pifq mutants, and transgenic lines of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 on medium for 4 days in the dark, then changing the direction of gravity by 90° and measuring the bending angle of the hypocotyl elongation zone every hour (Figures 4B,C). The ZmPIF4 transgenic lines were able to respond quickly to gravity, but the pifq mutant and the ZmPIF5-OE transgenic lines responded more slowly (Figures 4B,C).
FIGURE 4. Overexpression of ZmPIF4 but not ZmPIF5 partially rescued the negative gravitropism response of the hypocotyl in Arabidopsis pifq mutants. (A) ZmPIF4 but not ZmPIF5 restored the negative gravitropism of pifq mutant. Seedlings of wild-type control (Col-0), pifq mutant, and transgenic lines of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 in the pifq background were grown in continuous darkness for 4 days. Scale bar: 3 mm. (B,C) ZmPIF4, but not ZmPIF5, affects the negative gravitropism of hypocotyls. Four-day-old seedlings vertically grown in continuous darkness conditions were turned 90° for 10 h (B), or for various times (C). g, the direction of gravity. Data represent the mean and SD of 30 seedling plants. Scale bar: 3 mm. I2–KI staining of amyloplasts in the hypocotyl (D) and root (E). The seedlings were grown in white light for 24 h and then transferred to darkness for 72 h. Scale bar: 100 μm.
In darkness, accumulation of PIF proteins suppresses the conversion of starch-filled endodermal amyloplasts to plastids and thus plays an important role in the plant’s response to gravity (Kim et al., 2011). To test whether ZmPIF4 or ZmPIF5 could complement the amyloplast defect in pifq mutants, we detected amyloplasts by I2–KI staining. Amyloplasts were detected in both the hypocotyl and the root cap in Col-0 plants, but only in the root caps of the pifq mutants, consistent with previous studies (Kim et al., 2011). In the seedling plants of ZmPIF4-OE4/pifq and ZmPIF4-OE5/pifq, amyloplasts were detected in both the endodermis of the hypocotyl elongation zone and in the columella cells of the root cap. Indeed, the transgenic lines of ZmPIF4 stained more strongly, compared to the ZmPIF5 transgenic lines (Figures 4D,E). This indicates that both ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 might be involved in the plant response to gravity, with ZmPIF4 playing a primary role.
ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 Can Affect Seedling Development in Arabidopsis
To test whether ZmPIFs could regulate skotomorphogenesis and the shade avoidance response, we next overexpressed FLAG-tagged versions of the ZmPIFs (ZmPIF4-3FLAG and ZmPIF5-3FLAG) under the control of the constitutive 35S promoter in the Arabidopsis wild-type control Col-0 plants. Three independent transgenic ZmPIF4 over-expression lines (OE8, OE10, and OE11), and ZmPIF5 over-expression lines (OE2, OE3, and OE12) were selected and used to perform further analysis (Supplementary Figure S3A). The hypocotyls of all the transgenic lines were significantly longer than those of Col-0 in continuous dark conditions, which indicates that both ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 can participate in skotomorphogenesis in Arabidopsis (Figures 5A–D).
FIGURE 5. Overexpression of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 in wild-type Arabidopsis Col-0 plants. (A–D) Overexpression of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 promoted hypocotyl elongation in continuous darkness, compared with wild-type Col-0 control plants. (A,C) The phenotype of 4-day-old dark grown transgenic lines of ZmPIF4-OE and ZmPIF5-OE. Scale bar: 4 mm. (B,D) Quantification of hypocotyl length of the seedling plants shown in (A,C). Data represent the mean and SD of at least 30 seedlings. ∗P < 0.05; ∗∗P < 0.01. (E,F) The phenotype (upper) and quantification (lower panel) of 7-day-old seedling of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 transgenic lines under LD with low R/FR light (R/FR = 0.35) conditions. Scale bar: 3 mm. Data represent the mean and SD. n = 30; ∗P < 0.05; ∗∗P < 0.01. (G) RT-qPCR analysis indicated that overexpression of ZmPIF4 enhanced the expression level of shade response related genes HFR1, IAA19, PIL1, PIL2, and TAA1. Seven-day-old seedlings grown under LD with low R/FR light conditions were used to perform RT-qPCR analysis. UBQ1 was used as the internal control. Data are means and SD of three independent biological replicates.
Further, we checked the hypocotyl elongation phenotype of all the ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 transgenic lines in the pifq mutant and Col-0 backgrounds under long-day conditions with high (Supplementary Figure S3B) or low R:FR (Figures 5E,F), respectively. Under long-day conditions with high R:FR (white light, R:FR = 5), the ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 transgenic lines displayed shorten hypocotyls, without significant differences between ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 (Supplementary Figure S3B). By contrast, under long-day conditions with low R:FR (F:FR = 0.35), the transgenic lines of ZmPIF4, but not ZmPIF5, in both pifq mutant and Col-0 backgrounds displayed longer hypocotyls, compared with the control plants (Figures 5E,F). This suggests that ZmPIF4 is involved in shade avoidance responses. Furthermore, RT-qPCR analyses revealed that the transcript levels of PIL1, PIL2, HFR1, IAA19, and TAA1 in 7-day-old seedlings grown under low R:FR conditions were significantly increased in ZmPIF4-OE4/pifq and ZmPIF4-OE5/pifq, and ZmPIF4-OE8 and ZmPIF4-OE10, compared with pifq mutant or Col-0 wild-type control plants, respectively (Figure 5F). These observations suggested that ZmPIF4 regulates cell elongation of the hypocotyl under low R:FR conditions, probably by promoting the expression of genes related to the shade avoidance response.
Overexpression of ZmPIF4 Produced a Constitutive Shade Avoidance Response in Arabidopsis
To further verify the physiological function of ZmPIF4 in the shade avoidance response, we examined the phenotype of adult plants of the ZmPIF4 transgenic line grown under long-day with high R:FR conditions. As shown in Figures 6A,B, three independent transgenic overexpression lines of ZmPIF4 showed earlier flowering times and had fewer rosette leaves at flowering, compared with wild-type control plant Col-0. In addition, the phenotypes of continuous shade avoidance, including elongated petioles, reduced leaf area, accelerated leaf senescence, slender inflorescences, and plant lodging were observed in the ZmPIF4 over-expression lines (Figures 6C–F and Supplementary Figure S4), but not the ZmPIF5 overexpression lines (data not shown). The chlorophyll and carotenoid contents were lower in the ZmPIF4 overexpression lines (Figure 6E), and RT-qPCR analysis revealed that the transcript levels of the chlorophyll biosynthesis genes GUN4, HEMA1, and CHLH were significantly decreased in adult plants of the ZmPIF4 overexpression lines (OE8 and OE10), compared with wild-type control plant Col-0 (Figure 6G). All these results suggested that overexpression of ZmPIF4 resulted in a constitutive shade avoidance response, even under high R:FR conditions.
FIGURE 6. Overexpression of ZmPIF4 in Arabidopsis produces a constitutive shade avoidance response. (A,B) Arabidopsis overexpressing ZmPIF4 flowered early, compared with wild-type Col-0 plants. (A) 25-day-old plants grown under LD conditions (white light, 100 μmol m-2 s-1, R/FR = 5) were used to take a photograph. (B) The numbers of rosette leaves at bolting. Scale bar: 3 cm. ∗P < 0.05; ∗P < 0.01; n = 20. (C) Overexpression of ZmPIF4 resulted in plant lodging, compared with wild-type Col-0. 45-day-old plants grown under LD conditions are shown. Scale bar: 3 cm. Overexpression of ZmPIF4 altered leaf shape (D), promoted petiole elongation (F), and reduced the contents of chlorophyll and carotenoids (E), compared with wild-type Col-0 plants. 25-day-old mature plants grown under LD conditions wee used to perform the analyses in (D–F). Scale bar: 3 cm. ∗P < 0.05; ∗∗P < 0.01. (G) RT-qPCR analysis revealed that Arabidopsis plants overexpressing ZmPIF4 had reduced transcript levels of chlorophyll biosynthesis-related genes (GUN4, HEMA1, and CHLH). Seven-day-old seedlings grown under LD conditions were used to perform RT-qPCR analysis. UBQ1 was used as the internal control. Data are means and SD of three replicates.
ZmPIF4-Regulated Hypocotyl Elongation Involves the GA Signaling Pathway
To examine whether ZmPIF4 can interact with the GA signaling pathway to coordinately regulate hypocotyl elongation and the shade avoidance response, we first tested whether it can interact with the DELLA protein REPRESSOR OF GA1-3 (RGA), a negative regulator of GA signaling that interacts with Arabidopsis PIFs. Yeast two-hybrid assays indicated that ZmPIF4 can interact with RGA directly in vitro (Figure 7A). Further, luciferase complementation imaging (LCI) assays and bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) assays showed that ZmPIF4 can interact with RGA in planta (Figures 7B,C). In addition, the hypocotyl elongation of pifq mutant is less responsive to GA treatment, compared with wild-type control plant Col-0 under darkness conditions. Overexpression of ZmPIF4 in the pifq mutant background completely rescued the lack of response to GA treatment (Figures 7D,E), which suggests that ZmPIF4 might affect the GA signaling pathway, possibly by interacting with RGA to influence hypocotyl elongation.
FIGURE 7. The effect of ZmPIF4 on hypocotyl elongation involves the GA signaling pathway. (A) Yeast two-hybrid analysis showed the protein–protein interaction between ZmPIF4 and Arabidopsis RGA. (B) Luciferase complementation imaging (LCI) assays showed ZmPIF4 interacts with RGA in vivo. ZmPIF4 and RGA were fused with the N- or C-terminal of LUC (indicated by nLUC or cLUC) and then infiltrated into Nicotiana benthamiana leaves. nLUC, cLUC, empty vector. (C) Bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) assay showed ZmPIF4 interacts with RGA in vivo. ZmPIF4 and RGA were fused with the N- or C-terminal of YFP (indicated by YFPN or YFPC) and then infiltrated into N. benthamiana leaves. The arrow indicates the YFP signal in the nucleus. Scale bar: 25 μm. (D) Phenotypes of 4-day-old seedlings grown under darkness with or without 10 μM GA3. Scale bar: 3 mm. (E) Quantification of hypocotyl length of the plants shown in (D). Data represent the mean and SD of at least 30 seedlings. ∗P < 0.05, ∗∗P < 0.01.
Shade tolerance is a beneficial trait in crops such as maize, as trends in modern agriculture continue to increase planting density. Members of the PIF family of proteins play a critical role in plant responses to shading, and are highly conserved in land plants (Lee and Choi, 2017). The physiological functions and underlying molecular mechanisms of PIFs have been studied extensively in Arabidopsis, but little is known in maize and other plant species. In this study, we conducted a genome-wide analysis of maize and identified 15 putative PIF family proteins. Alignment of the protein sequences of AtPIFs and ZmPIFs showed that the seven putative ZmPIF proteins we identified have a highly conserved bHLH domain and an APB motif, which is essential for interacting with phytochromes in plants. Three of these (ZmbHLH76, ZmbHLH165, ZmbHLH198) also have an APA motif. The strong conservation of these motifs is consistent with their importance roles for PIF function in Arabidopsis and maize. These seven putative PIFs might interact with phyA or phyB and be involved in light signal transduction directly. The other eight members may function indirectly in light signal transduction by interacting with the seven members that containing APA or APB domains. Indeed, this kind of interaction has been identified in previous studies in Arabidopsis. For example, HFR1, an atypical bHLH type transcriptional regulator, directly interacts with PIF4 or PIF5 and forms non-DNA-binding bHLH heterodimers, thus mediating plant responses to shade (Hornitschek et al., 2009).
Previous studies have revealed that ZmPIF3.1 and ZmPIF3.2 can interact with ZmphyB, and affect responses to stress in rice (Gao et al., 2015; Kumar et al., 2016). Besides ZmPIF3.1 and ZmPIF3.2, the physiological roles of other ZmPIF members have remained largely unknown. Here, our results revealed that the transcript levels of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 peaked at dawn and were low at dusk (Figure 2B). The ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 protein levels are light labile, accumulating at night and decreasing in the day, similar to the pattern of AtPIF4 and AtPIF5 in Arabidopsis (Figures 3F,G). By expressing ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 in pifq, the quadruple mutant of PIF1, PIF3, PIF4, and PIF5 in Arabidopsis, we showed that overexpression of these two genes partly rescued the phenotype of pifq in the dark (Figures 3A–D). Ectopic expression of ZmPIF4 also rescued the disrupted negative gravitropism of hypocotyls in pifq mutants, which might occur through inhibition of the conversion of endodermal amyloplasts to etioplasts. In addition, overexpression ZmPIF4 in Arabidopsis caused a moderate constitutive shade response, including early flowering, reduced chlorophyll, and premature leaf senescence, similar to the phenotype of plants overexpressing AtPIF4 and AtPIF5 (Figures 5, 6). Further, RT-qPCR indicated that ZmPIF4 or ZmPIF5 can regulate the transcript levels of selected downstream target genes of AtPIFs. In addition, ZmPIF4 can interact with RGA (a main member of the DELLA family) of Arabidopsis, and overexpression of ZmPIF4 partially rescued the defective response to GA in pifq, which suggested that ZmPIF4 may regulate plant growth by interacting with components of the GA pathway (Figure 7). All this genetic evidence revealed that ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 act similarly to AtPIF4 and AtPIF5, and participate in photomorphogenesis and the shade avoidance response in Arabidopsis.
Although the protein–protein interaction between ZmPhyB1 (or ZmPhyB2) and ZmPIF4 (or ZmPIF5) still needs to be tested, genetic evidence revealed that these two-putative maize PIF proteins, ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 play important roles in shade avoidance response. We also noticed that ZmPIF4 had a stronger effect on the Arabidopsis response to shade and gravity, compared with ZmPIF5. This may be due to the lower protein level of ZmPIF5 in the Arabidopsis transgenic lines, or other mechanisms that influence the protein or transcript level of ZmPIF5 in Arabidopsis. To further exam the physiological roles of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5, genetic materials including mutant plants or stable transgenic lines of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 in maize are require. Our study revealed that ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 can affect photomorphogenesis and the shade avoidance response in Arabidopsis, similar to the physiological functions to AtPIF4 and AtPIF5, which indicate that PIF4 and PIF5 might play evolutionarily conserved roles in maize and Arabidopsis.
QS, HZ, XS, YJ, RL, and GL designed the research. QS and XS performed the most of experiments and analyzed data. QS and GL wrote the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.
This work was supported by grants from the State Key Basic Research and Development Program of China (2014CB147301 and 2016YFD0101003), Funds of Shandong “Double Tops” Program (to GL), and State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology (DXKT201706).
The Supplementary Material for this article can be found online at: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpls.2017.02273/full#supplementary-material
FIGURE S1 | Phylogenetic tree of PIF4 and PIF5 in land plants. Phylogenetic tree analysis of PIF4 and PIF5 in land plants was conducted with SMART and output was generated with MEGA.
FIGURE S2 | Gene expression and protein subcellular localization analysis of ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5. (A) RT-qPCR analysis indicated that ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 are highly induced by far-red light and repressed by red light. Three-leaf stage seedlings of maize inbred line B73 grown under white light were transferred to far-red and then transferred to red light for various times. The seedlings were harvested at different times and used to perform RT-qPCR analysis. Actin was used as internal control for RT-qPCR. Data are means and SD of three independent biological replicates. (B) Plasmids containing ZmPIF4-GFP and ZmPIF5-GFP were infiltrated into N. benthamiana and microscopy revealed that the fusion proteins localized in the nucleus. H2B- mCherry was used as internal control to indicate the position of the nucleus. Scale bar: 25 μm.
FIGURE S3 | Phenotype of the ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 transgenic Arabidopsis seedlings under high R/FR conditions. (A) Western blot analyses revealed that ZmPIF4 and ZmPIF5 were highly expressed in the transgenic plants of ZmPIF4 (left) and ZmPIF5 (right), respectively. Four-day-old seedlings were used for western blot analysis. The bands of RbcL stained with Ponceau S were used as the internal control. (B) The phenotype (upper) and quantification of hypocotyl length (lower) of the transgenic lines of ZmPIF4-OE and ZmPIF5-OE under long-day with low R:FR conditions (white light, R:FR = 5). Scale bar: 1.5 mm. Data represent the mean and SD. n = 30; ∗P < 0.05; ∗∗P < 0.01.
FIGURE S4 | Overexpression of ZmPIF4 enhanced the shade avoidance response in Arabidopsis. (A,B) Overexpression of ZmPIF4 (OE8, OE10, OE11) led to plant lodging and leaf senescence, compared with wild-type Col-0. Scale bar: 3 cm. Overexpression lines of ZmPIF4 (OE11) led to the inflorescence soft and lodging (C), and altered the length and thickness of the mature silique (D), compared with wild-type Col-0. Scale bar: 1 cm in (C) and 5 mm in (D). 45-day-old mature plants grown under LD conditions are shown in (A–D).
FIGURE S5 | Scanned original images of immunoblots and gels.
TABLE S1 | Annotation information for the putative PIF family proteins in maize.
TABLE S2 | Primers used in this study.
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Ma, L., Tian, T., Lin, R., Deng, X. W., Wang, H., and Li, G. (2016). Arabidopsis FHY3 and FAR1 regulate light-induced myo-inositol biosynthesis and oxidative stress responses by transcriptional activation of MIPS1. Mol. Plant 9, 541–557. doi: 10.1016/j.molp.2015.12.013
Ma, L., Xue, N., Fu, X., Zhang, H., and Li, G. (2017). Arabidopsis thaliana FAR-RED ELONGATED HYPOCOTYLS3 (FHY3) and FAR-RED-IMPAIRED RESPONSE1 (FAR1) modulate starch synthesis in response to light and sugar. New Phytol. 213, 1682–1696. doi: 10.1111/nph.14300
Martin, K., Kopperud, K., Chakrabarty, R., Banerjee, R., Brooks, R., and Goodin, M. M. (2009). Transient expression in Nicotiana benthamiana fluorescent marker lines provides enhanced definition of protein localization, movement and interactions in planta. Plant J. 59, 150–162. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-313X.2009.03850.x
Mazzella, M. A., Casal, J. J., Muschietti, J. P., and Fox, A. R. (2014). Hormonal networks involved in apical hook development in darkness and their response to light. Front. Plant Sci. 5:52. doi: 10.3389/fpls.2014.00052
Paik, I., Kathare, P. K., Kim, J. I., and Huq, E. (2017). Expanding roles of PIFs in signal integration from multiple processes. Mol. Plant 10, 1035–1046. doi: 10.1016/j.molp.2017.07.002
Pfeiffer, A., Shi, H., Tepperman, J. M., Zhang, Y., and Quail, P. H. (2014). Combinatorial complexity in a transcriptionally centered signaling hub in Arabidopsis. Mol. Plant 7, 1598–1618. doi: 10.1093/mp/ssu087
Quail, P. H. (1991). Phytochrome: a light-activated molecular switch that regulates plant gene expression. Annu. Rev. Genet. 25, 389–409. doi: 10.1146/annurev.ge.25.120191.002133
Robson, P., Whitelam, G. C., and Smith, H. (1993). Selected components of the shade-avoidance syndrome are displayed in a normal manner in mutants of Arabidopsis thaliana and Brassica rapa deficient in phytochrome B. Plant Physiol. 102, 1179–1184. doi: 10.1104/pp.102.4.1179
Sakuraba, Y., Jeong, J., Kang, M. Y., Kim, J., Paek, N. C., and Choi, G. (2014). Phytochrome-interacting transcription factors PIF4 and PIF5 induce leaf senescence in Arabidopsis. Nat. Commun. 5:4636. doi: 10.1038/ncomms5636
Sheehan, M. J., Kennedy, L. M., Costich, D. E., and Brutnell, T. P. (2007). Subfunctionalization of PhyB1 and PhyB2 in the control of seedling and mature plant traits in maize. Plant J. 49, 338–353. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-313X.2006.02962.x
Shen, H., Zhu, L., Castillon, A., Majee, M., Downie, B., and Huq, E. (2008). Light-induced phosphorylation and degradation of the negative regulator PHYTOCHROME-INTERACTING FACTOR1 from Arabidopsis depend upon its direct physical interactions with photoactivated phytochromes. Plant Cell 20, 1586–1602. doi: 10.1105/tpc.108.060020
Shin, J., Kim, K., Kang, H., Zulfugarov, I. S., Bae, G., Lee, C. H., et al. (2009). Phytochromes promote seedling light responses by inhibiting four negatively-acting phytochrome-interacting factors. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 106, 7660–7665. doi: 10.1073/pnas.0812219106
Tyler, L., Thomas, S. G., Hu, J., Dill, A., Alonso, J. M., Ecker, J. R., et al. (2004). Della proteins and gibberellin-regulated seed germination and floral development in Arabidopsis. Plant Physiol. 135, 1008–1019. doi: 10.1104/pp.104.039578
Yoo, S. D., Cho, Y. H., and Sheen, J. (2007). Arabidopsis mesophyll protoplasts: a versatile cell system for transient gene expression analysis. Nat. Protoc. 2, 1565–1572. doi: 10.1038/nprot.2007.199
Zhang, Y., Mayba, O., Pfeiffer, A., Shi, H., Tepperman, J. M., Speed, T. P., et al. (2013). A quartet of PIF bHLH factors provides a transcriptionally centered signaling hub that regulates seedling morphogenesis through differential expression-patterning of shared target genes in Arabidopsis. PLOS Genet. 9:e1003244. doi: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1003244
Keywords: maize, photomorphogenesis, phytochrome-interacting factors (PIFs), shade avoidance response, ZmPIF4, ZmPIF5
Citation: Shi Q, Zhang H, Song X, Jiang Y, Liang R and Li G (2018) Functional Characterization of the Maize Phytochrome-Interacting Factors PIF4 and PIF5. Front. Plant Sci. 8:2273. doi: 10.3389/fpls.2017.02273
Received: 07 October 2017; Accepted: 29 December 2017;
Published: 18 January 2018.
Daoxin Xie, Tsinghua University, China
Shangwei Zhong, Peking University, China
Hsu-Liang Hsieh, National Taiwan University, Taiwan
Enamul Huq, University of Texas at Austin, United States
Copyright © 2018 Shi, Zhang, Song, Jiang, Liang and Li. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) or licensor are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.
*Correspondence: Gang Li, gangli@sdau.edu.cn
†These authors have contributed equally to this work.
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Resistive touch screen monitor technology is revolutionizing computing
Resistive touch screen monitor solutions have started gaining popularity in the last couple of years. Today, you cannot ignore them if you want to work with the latest in terms of TV viewing convenience or computer technology.
In fact, major operating systems have launched their versions specifically for touch screen monitors. You can now avail these ultra modern screens for quite an inexpensive price range. However, these screens have definitely expanded their usability far beyond the average home and office use. Here is a look at the nuances of this evolving trend.
The technology behind resistive and capacitive touch screen monitors
Touch screen monitors can be categorized according to the different technologies that power them. They are of mainly three categories
Resistive monitor: This technology comprises of two layers of conducive metallic layers, which have resistive properties. These layers encompass a glass panel. When you touch the screen, the two layers contact each other at that point and the computer is able to detect the change in the electric field at the touch point. They are the most inexpensive format of touch screen technology. However, they do not offer 100% image clarity. The touch effect registers whether you use a stylus or a gloved touch. However, do not use any sharp objects on the screen as it can be easily damaged that way.
Capacitive monitor: This technology contains a layer of glass panel on top of which there is a thin layer, which stores a continuous electric charge. At the touch on the screen some of this charge passes on to the user. This decreases the capacitance on the screen at that point, which is detected by the computer and calculated to understand the action. These are extremely durable and are widely used in POS systems, Kiosks, and industrial technology. It has also been availed in high-end mobile tablet technologies in the market today. You cannot activate a capacitive screen with a stylus or gloved fingers.
Surface acoustic wave technology monitors: A series of transducers are set up along the sides of the glass monitor. There are also a series of reflectors to create an invisible grid on the surface of the monitor. This grid is made up of ultrasonic waves. When a user touches the screen, the point of change in the grid is absorbed and the transducers collect the changes. This helps the controller to realize the action on screen. These offer the highest levels of image clarity and are the most expensive touch screens available.
Various considerations when selecting the best resistive touch screen technology
When selecting a touch screen monitor for your use, make sure to keep in mind these considerations:
The level of ease with the interface – there is no point investing in a high-end technology if you are not compatible to the interface to make the technology work for you.
Mounting options – You should look through panel mounting, rack and freestanding mounting options to know which one suits your needs the best.
Damage proof environment – Check whether you need an enclosure for your touch screen monitors, your options include standard, stainless steel enclosures and waterproof enclosures.
Resistive touch screen price and the future of touch screen resistive displays
Prices of resistive screen displays are very reasonable and the future of touch screen displays looks bright with faytech leading the industry. Contact us to speak with one of our experts about the touch screen solutions that will best meet your needs.
Contact Faytech North America for all your questions.
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‘RHOP’ Ashley Darby Says It Was ‘A Relief’ to Finally Share Details of Her Threesomes With Husband Michael Darby
'RHOP' Ashley Darby Says It Was 'A Relief' to Finally Share Details of Her Threesomes With Husband Michael Darby
Real Housewives of Potomac star Ashley Darby and her marriage to husband Michael Darby has been controversial since she first appeared on the show.
Since RHOP premiered in 2016, Michael Darby has done some pretty horrible things, including sexually assaulting a cameraman and cheating on Ashley.
But Ashley says the cheating actually allowed her to get real with her fellow castmates about her marriage. And it was a huge relief.
On the RHOP After Show, Ashley said,
“Strangely, Michael venturing out the way he did has allowed me to finally be expressive about how we have done this together, and it’s a big relief. I’ve made jokes and I’ve referenced it in the past to the women. Either they didn’t take me seriously, or they were just like, ‘Ah, that Ashley!’ But now that this has happened with Michael, they want more details.”
“I guess the story is more salacious now, and they really want to know the details, and I’m happy to share. When the mood strikes, and I’m attracted to someone, and she’s attracted to me, and Michael comes over and there’s a mutual attraction, it is what it is.”
Ashley used their history of threesomes to explain Michael’s cheating but there’s a huge difference between a couple mutually agreeing to add a third partner and one person stepping out of a relationship without the other’s consent.
Ashley with husband Michael and son Dean on Halloween 2020
Her castmate Robyn Dixon thought the same thing. While on the Juicy Scoop With Heather McDonald podcast, she said,
“Honestly, to me, that felt like a deflection from the real topic. I didn’t see what one had to do with the other. She’s saying they’ve had experiences together in the past. OK, but we’re not talking about the past. She was almost taking responsibility for his behavior and, you know, why.”
Regardless, Ashley and Michael appear to be going strong. Ashley is currently pregnant with the couple’s second child. She gave birth to their first child Dean in July 2019.
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Tags: Ashley Darby Real Housewives Real Housewives of Potomac RHOP
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Home ▸ Catalog ▸ |Medieval & Modern Coins| ▸ |Turkey||View Options: | 1 Item3 Items10 Items25 Items50 Items | Sort by price △Sort by price ▽Sort by date |
Coins of Turkey
Islamic, Seljuqs Sultanate of Rum, Ghiyath al-Din Kay Khusraw II bin Kay Qubadh, 1237 - 1246 A.D.
The source and meaning of this sun and lion design is uncertain but there is a popular (although unlikely) explanation. The sultan was madly in love with his beautiful Georgian wife and wanted to put her portrait on his coins. His advisors disapproved, however, so he put his wife's horoscope on his coins instead - the Sun in Leo. The Ilkhan descendants of the Mongols copied this design on a copper fals nearly a hundred years later. After that it became a popular device with which to ornament the copper coins of eastern Anatolia, and particularly Iran where it eventually became the country’s national symbol.IS95340. Silver dirhem, cf. Mitchiner 983, Izmirlier 464, Album 1218 (none with these controls, date on our coin uncertain), VF, toned, weight 2.987 g, maximum diameter 22.6 mm, die axis 270o, Siwas (Sivas, Turkey) mint, AH 637 - 641; obverse al-imam al-mustansir billah amir al-mu'minin (the Imam al-Mustansir, Commander of the Faithful), sun in radiance above lion passant right (the sun in Leo), pellets between rays of sun, no stars or crescents (controls), pellet (control) below lion; reverse in central square: al-sultan / al-a'zam / kaykhusraw / ibn kayqubad (the Supreme Sultan Kaykhusraw ibn Kayqubad); around: mint & dates (struck in Siwas, in the year [639?]) ; ex Specialty Stamp and Coin, Champagne, IL (2002); scarce variety; $100.00 (€92.00)
Turkey, 1999, Food Security Commemorative
Tarhunta was the Luwian and Hittite god of sky, thunder, and storms. He was also known as Taru, Tarhun, Tarhunt, and Tarhuwant, names derived from the Anatolian root *tarh "to defeat, conquer." Tarhunta was assimilated into the Hurrian Teshub by Muwatalli II, ruler of the Hittite New Kingdom in the early 13th century B.C. Teshub reappears in the post-Hurrian cultural successor kingdom of Urartu as Tesheba, one of their chief gods; in Urartian art he is depicted standing on a bull. The depiction on this coin is from a monumental relief found at Tyana, an ancient city in the Anatolian region of Cappadocia, in modern Kemerhisar, Nigde Province, Central Anatolia, Turkey. It was the capital of a Luwian-speaking Neo-Hittite kingdom in the 1st millennium B.C.
WO91894. Aluminum 50000 Lira, SCWC KM 1103, UNC, weight 1.5 g, maximum diameter 20 mm, die axis 180o, 1999; obverse TURKIYE CUMHURIYETI (Republic of Turkey), 50.000 / LIRA / 1999 / d, all within wreath of grain on left and laurel on right; reverse XXI CENTURY . FAO. FOOD SECURITY, half length figure of the sky / thunder / storm god Tarhunta (Tesheb) standing right, bearded, wearing cap, grape vine in right hand, grain in left hand; SOLD
Krause, C. & C. Mishler. Standard Catalog of World Coins. (Iola, WI, 2010 - ).
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House GOP Drafts New Stopgap Spending Bill
Yet another U.S. budget stopgap spending bill was being crafted on Tuesday in the House of Representatives as the Senate bickered over when to vote on two longer-term measures that appeared sure to fail.
The Republican-led House Appropriations Committee was readying a sixth stopgap measure to keep the government running beyond a March 18 deadline, when current funding authority ends, an aide said, adding that details were not yet firm.
This string of temporary spending bills has been necessary because Congress failed to write a budget and pass 12 regular spending bills in time for the start of the 2011 fiscal year that began last Oct. 1.
The House aide said that the next temporary bill, like the last one, would carve out new spending reductions. The last one claims to achieve about $4 billion in savings over two weeks.
Failure to pass a spending bill by March 18 would lead to an immediate shutdown of nonessential federal government services -- everything from passport offices to nuclear research facilities.
Meanwhile, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, whose Democrats hold narrow control of the chamber, accused Republicans of reneging on a deal to hold votes on Tuesday on two competing plans for cutting spending through Sept. 30.
In unusually harsh tones, Reid said on the Senate floor: "The Republicans don't want to vote. They don't want to live up to the agreement that was made" during a budget meeting last week between congressional leaders and Vice President Joe Biden.
Without the deal, the Senate could take much of the rest of the week to vote on the two bills, aides said.
The Republican bill, already passed by the House, would cut about $57 billion in spending for the remainder of this fiscal year from current levels. When coupled with the $4 billion in savings from the current two-week stopgap bill, it would eliminate about $61 billion in government spending in a fiscal year that is forecast to see a record $1.65 trillion deficit.
The proposal is the centerpiece of Republicans' promise to boost the economy by rolling back regulations and slashing government spending.
Democrats, led by Biden, are pushing a much smaller $6.5 billion package of reductions for the rest of the year that the Congressional Budget Office estimates would actually save around $4.7 billion.
Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell called the Democrats' plan "puny compared to the fiscal problems we face."
In his floor speech, Reid chastised the Republican spending cuts, saying they would gut programs for education, renewable energy and others and throw 700,000 people out of work at a time of high unemployment.
"It seems that Republicans themselves have finally read their own budget over here in the Senate because now they're even running from" it, Reid added.
Without Senate Republicans' consent to hold votes on Tuesday on the two doomed bills, Reid promised to use procedural maneuvers that could lead to initial votes in the early morning hours on Wednesday.
If the Senate defeats both bills, congressional leaders hope that would underscore the need for compromise on spending for the rest of this year between Democrats and Republicans.
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Story of teens shouting 'Trump 2016,' leaving 'Go Home' note all lies, woman admits
By Katherine Lam, | Fox News
Adwoa Lewis, 19, was arrested and charged with making a false punishable written statement, police said. (Nassau County Police Department)
A New York woman admitted she fabricated her story to police claiming a group of teens shouted “Trump 2016” at her and left the note “Go Home” after slashing her tires, police said.
Adwoa Lewis, 19, was arrested and charged with making a false punishable written statement following an “extensive investigation” into her claims she made earlier this month, Nassau County police said Saturday.
Lewis provided a written statement to detectives saying four teenagers confronted her on Sept. 1 around 11:15 p.m. while she was driving on Jackson Street on Long Island. She said the teens yelled “Trump 2016!” and told her she didn’t belong here.
“She further claimed she parked her car in front of her house and when she woke up, she found a slashed tire and a note on her car that stated ‘Go Home,’” police said in a news release.
Authorities launched an investigation into the possible hate crime and found the confrontation Lewis detailed never occurred.
She later admitted to police that she had written the note and placed it on her own car.
Lewis was arrested Friday and released on an appearance ticket. She is expected to appear in court on Sept. 24.
Katherine Lam is a breaking and trending news digital producer for Fox News. Follow her on Twitter at @bykatherinelam
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‘Medium’ Exclusives
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7th December 2020 8th December 2020
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A young Chinese warrior steals a sword from a famed swordsman and then escapes into a world of romantic adventure with a mysterious man in the frontier of the nation.
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There are 666 portals that connect this world to the other side, concealed from humanity. Somewhere in Japan exists the 444th portal… the Forest of Resurrection.
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Singer David Byrne and a group of international musicians perform songs from the hit Broadway musical “American Utopia.”
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Cho Yat-Hang, the unwilling successor to the Wu-Tang clan throne and the unsure commander of the clan’s forces in a war against an evil cult, falls in forbidden love with Lien Ni-Chang, a killer for the evil cult.
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FRAME RATED is an online publication focusing on the world of film and television. No content appearing on this site may be reproduced, reposted, or reused without the written permission of its author or creator.
Editor: Dan Owen • Webmaster: Jeffrey Bricker
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Malaysia Plans Special Court for Human Trafficking Cases
Child SlaveryDebt BondageDomestic SlaveryForced LaborForced MarriageHuman TraffickingLaw & PolicyRehabilitation & LiberationSlavery-Free GoodsSupply Chain
Malaysia is setting up a special court to deal with the rising number of human trafficking cases in the country. The move was welcomed by activists who hope the court will give victims better access to justice.
The country is a top destination for migrant workers — largely from Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Nepal — who take up jobs shunned by locals, including domestic work, construction, and plantation labor. The government estimates that there are 2 million migrant workers on the books, though many more are undocumented.
Many of these migrant workers are victims of human trafficking and debt bondage, often required to pay astronomical recruitment fees for a job that ends up paying them far less than what they were promised.
Thomson Reuters Foundation reports that that first court will open as soon as May:
Under a pilot project, the special court is expected to be set up as early as May in the central state of Selangor, with a dedicated judge to hear cases, before it is gradually rolled out in other parts of the country.
Malaysia’s deputy premier Zahid Hamidi said authorities hoped the court would help expedite human trafficking cases and boost public awareness of the crime, state media Bernama quoted him as saying on Saturday.
Anti-trafficking NGO Tenaganita welcomed the new court. “Most of the trafficking victims are foreigners, they don’t want to wait for a long time to testify in court,” said director Aegile Fernandez.
Still, others suspect that this is an attempt by Malaysia to get upgraded in the US State Department’s Trafficking in Persons Report — a ranking system that scores countries heavily on their prosecutions of traffickers. Malaysia was controversially upgraded from the Tier 2 Watch List to Tier 2 last year, which translates into the country “not fully complying with U.S. standards but making significant efforts to do so.”
Alex Ong from advocacy group Migrant Care added, “The establishment of a human trafficking court should be functional, not window dressing,” Ong said. “Human trafficking court is just a name. Human trafficking activities remain rampant.”
Come on Malaysia! Whatever the reason for the Court, make it count. Help youngsters out of slavery and into becoming loyal, contributing citizens! The world is watching and wishing you a mutual success.
Nazrul
That’s will be great achievements for human rights of humanity. The year 2018 will be remembered for next-generation if willingly setting up this activities positively over the whole community’s laws and enforcement authority dept ensuring of Malaysian govt side.
Lets cheer up and raise your voice together in 2018 main objects should be just respective t of humanity & leave it every slavery of disrespects of humanity.
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