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warc | 201704 | Some of the most-hyped Internet companies in the world are trying to stay private, longer.
Companies such as Facebook Inc. - which has long sparked privacy concerns on behalf of its 550 million users - are declining multibillion-dollar takeover bids and refusing to launch initial public offerings.
The social networking site this week accepted $450-million (U.S.) from Goldman Sachs Group Inc. in a deal that will see potentially thousands of individual investors obtain shares on the secondary market - all while Facebook technically remains a private company.
Micro-blogging site Twitter Inc. and the wildly popular online coupon company Groupon Inc. - which recently rejected a $6-billion bid from Google Inc. - are taking the same route, raising big money away from the glare of the stock market.
There are sound reasons for these tech firms to remain private, including the chance to polish business models for monetizing their sites without the scrutiny of competitors, and the ability to firm up long-range business plans without worrying about short-term revenues.
"If you're focused on quarterly reporting, and all these other reporting requirements, I think you lose track of the long-term goals and the long-term objectives and the long-term planning," says Jim Goodnight, chief executive officer of SAS Institute Inc., a global software company with more than 11,000 employees that he has kept private for more than 30 years. "I suspect that as the economy picks up, you will see a few more companies doing IPOs. But then, you look at Facebook, Twitter and Groupon; all those companies are managing to stay private."
With Facebook, Goldman is planning to resell shares to high-net-worth clients, claiming the investment firm is a single investor. But since U.S. law requires companies with more than 500 outside individual investors to effectively go public, the Securities and Exchange Commission may eventually force the company to go public anyway.
But in the meantime, Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg can continue to avoid the onerous reporting requirements that apply to public companies.
One of the things relieving the pressure to go public is a vibrant secondary market in the U.S. for Facebook's pre-IPO shares, something that doesn't really exist in Canada, according to Tom Valis of Toronto's Celtic House Venture Partners. "That's one of the reasons why Facebook isn't under pressure to go public," Mr. Valis said.
Other tech firms, including Twitter, LinkedIn and Zygna Inc. (the creator of the popular FarmVille game), are also private despite furious trading in the secondary market.
Competitors know little about their metrics - in some cases, revenue and profit, though in others how the company makes any money at all. And that's a relatively new development.
Duncan Stewart, director of research at Deloitte Canada, says before the dot-com bubble burst a decade ago, tech IPOs came to market only after huge investments in infrastructure or software development and several years of operation, which allowed competitors to get a feel for rivals.
"When you went public, and you had to disclose a whole bunch of stuff, usually your competition already knew that stuff about you," Mr. Stewart said. "[But for]Facebook, Groupon - these kinds of companies are so, so new and emerging and evolving so rapidly, that … staying private may be
more of a strategic advantage for these guys."
Groupon's rejection of Google's $6-billion bid, has, however, raised the prospect of hype-fuelled valuations. Goldman's financing values Facebook as high as $50-billion, and Google, which launched at roughly $85 (U.S.) a share in 2004, closed at $602.12 on Tuesday. Groupon, however, has been criticized for a business model that is too easily replicated, and Twitter hasn't revealed how it will make money from its millions of users.
National Bank Financial Inc. analyst Kris Thompson, who follows small tech companies, is not too concerned about the lack of information. This time around, he said, there is unlikely to be the same sort of capital destruction as there was 10 years ago.
"Investors got burned last time around," he said. "There's not as many companies chasing the same thing. The business models are a lot more well thought out."Report Typo/Error
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warc | 201704 | Bigger Storms by Mary
Yesterday dKos' GreenMother posted a diary that explains why global warming is a huge problem for humanity. Climate change is affecting gardening and agriculture. As she puts it:
You see it everywhere. Back to the land, have a garden. Why if things go really bad, we can live off the fat of the land. And you know that was true 100 year ago, but not any more.
Not with our new extreme weather patterns.
But Climate Change Deniers haven't made the connection yet.
Successful gardening is more difficult than some realize even under the best of circumstances. Growing enough to feed just one family isn't easy.
One major problem for growing plants in the south eastern part of the United States comes from the deadly tornadoes that are cropping up more frequently. Again, from GreenMother:
I note that Tornado Season has changed. More, and more deadly, tornadoes are occurring further East. Those deadly December and February Tornadoes aren't as rare as they used to be.
Ever wonder why they had to create the "Enhanced" Fujita Scale? I do. Like the old Fujita scale was no longer enough to categorize the destructive power of tornadoes after May 3rd 1999.
We get more hail and it is highly destructive hail, driven by more violent winds that also make more violent tornadoes. The tornado doesn't even have to land on your property to destroy your crops or garden. The high winds and the hail can make it look like everything was ran through a paper shredder and then water logged. And while this is always a potential hazard in Tornado alley, it seems more prevalent and damaging lately.
Leafy greens can come back from that. But don't expect much from tomatoes or tomatillos or peppers. Especially if these plants are buried in hail like it's sleet. They just cannot take that chill.
The hail also does a number on Fruit trees as well. All my apples for 2 years in a row, looked like someone shot each one several times with a pellet gun. They rotted before they could ripen because of the bruising and tearing.
Add to that Jeff Master's post about the deadly swarm of tornadoes that hit yesterday killing 31 people.
A massive tornado outbreak of stunning violence swept through the nation's midsection yesterday, spawning deadly tornadoes that killed at least 31. Hardest hit were Kentucky and Southern Indiana, which suffered 13 and 14 dead, respectively. Three were killed in Ohio, and one in Alabama. The scale of the outbreak was truly exceptional, with a preliminary total of 81 tornadoes touching down in eleven states, from southern Ohio to southern Georgia. At one point, 31 separate tornado warnings were in effect during the outbreak. An area larger than Nebraska--81,000 square miles--received tornado warnings, and tornado watches were posted for 300,000 square miles--an area larger than Texas.
And the hail came too. This is a picture from Mt. Joliet, TN.
Our carbon habit is destroying the stable climate in which humans have evolved. The storms and the droughts are just starting. | 3,038 | 1,595 | 0.000631 |
warc | 201704 | Byline: Ambrosia Brody
NEWPORT BEACH — Mariners can now refer to Orange County Coastkeeper’s newly released boating and diving chart to help distinguish Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) from regions open to fishing and diving.
“We want them to know where the new MPAs are, and reduce confusion,” said Ray Hiemstra, associate director for Orange County Coastkeeper. “We don’t want people to think they can’t do anything between Newport Beach and Dana Point, because that is nowhere near the way it is.”
Using Abalone Point and Table Rock in as the two main boundaries, the chart depicts open fishing spots in Newport Bay, Corona del Mar and Reef Point, along with popular diving spots. Kelp beds, state marine reserve no-take zones and conservation areas are also shown on the chart — along with rocks and obstructions, rocky areas and danger lines.
“We are trying to de-emphasize the state marine conservation areas, because there are wide-open areas for fishing,” Hiemstra said.
The map was derived from information gathered from the first MPA Watch Program annual report. The 2012 report shares observational data gathered on the human uses surrounding MPAs, according to Coastkeeper. Volunteers completed 754 surveys and observed 44,670 activities — consumptive and non-consumptive, onshore and offshore.
MPAs along the Southern California coast have been in effect since Jan. 1, in areas from Point Conception to the California/Mexico border.
“There are several maps out there,” Hiemstra said. “What we wanted to do was make a simple, easy-to-use map for Orange County boaters, divers and offshore users.”
The chart uses the same symbols as the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) — making it easy to identify rock reefs and kelp beds. Popular fishing and diving spots are also identified on the map with symbols.
Boat launch ramps at Doheny and Newport Dunes are indicated on the map.
The free charts can be found at West Marine stores, dive shops, chandleries, tackle stores and sportfishing landings. Coastkeeper staff members and volunteers also hand out the maps at boat launch ramps.
The report and map can be found at coastkeeper.org/mpa-watch/.
Where to Find It The Orange County Coastkeeper boating and diving chart can be found at the following locations: Costa Mesa: Big 5, Glenn’s Rod N’ Gun, His and Her Fly Fishing, Minney’s Yacht Surplus. Cypress: Beach Cities Scuba. Dana Point: Beach Cities Scuba, West Marine, Dana Point Yacht Club, Riviera Yacht Charters, Dana Wharf Sportfishing. Fountain Valley: Sports Authority. Huntington Beach: REI, West Marine, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Beach Cities Scuba. Irvine: Big 5, Sports Chalet, Dive and Photo. Laguna Beach: Laguna Sea Sports. Lake Forest: Sea Stallion Scuba Outfitters. Newport Beach: Basin Marine, Davey Jones’ Locker, Balboa Angling Club, American Legion Yacht Club, West Marine, Hipp Marine, OCC School of Sailing and Seamanship, Newport Aquatic Center, Beach Cities Scuba, Newport Harbor Yacht Club Santa Ana: Sports Authority. Seal Beach: Big Fish. Westminster: Coral Reef Wet Suits. | 3,244 | 1,593 | 0.000653 |
warc | 201704 | Byline: Taylor Hill
NEWPORT BEACH — At its Nov. 28 meeting, the Newport Beach Tidelands Management Committee discussed the possible reorganization of the 11-year-old Newport Beach Harbor Commission, and it outlined a plan to create a special harbor fund for harbor-related projects and improvements.
Under the plan, the citizen-run, council-appointed Harbor Commission would change from its current seven members to include two Newport Beach City Council members that could potentially become voting parties for harbor-related matters.
In addition, the committee is considering a move to change the name of the Harbor Commission, which would be relabeled the “Harbor Tidelands Management Committee.” Under the plan, the newly named committee would be chaired by one of its two members from the city council.
According to Newport Beach City Councilman Mike Henn — chairman of the Tidelands Management Committee — the move is being proposed to “improve communication” between harbor commissioners and city council members.
“There’s an issue about how much of the Harbor Commission’s work actually matures to council action and ultimately leads to implementation,” Henn said. “It’s not much.”
While the new organization structure might lead to better communication between the two bodies, harbor commissioners — both past and present — voiced concerns about the new council-led committee structure and the name change.
“We think there is value in an all-citizens organization,” said Harbor Commission chairman Doug West. “It may not run as efficiently as if the city council ran it, but there is the essence of true community representation in it.”
In 2011, the city council formed the Tidelands Management Committee to create a tidelands infrastructure master plan that focused on future projects, needs and maintenance programs for the city’s beaches and waterways. The plan, now called the Tidelands Capital Plan, has laid out expenditures in the harbor on a five-year timeline and includes projects such as future dredging, new public docks, the Marina Park project, seawall repair, special maintenance projects and water quality testing. At the time, the move irked some Harbor Commission members, who felt the committee had been formed to get the plan passed without consulting the Harbor Commission.
The Tidelands Management Committee — composed of Henn, Mayor Nancy Gardner and Councilman Ed Selich — included a Citizens’ Advisory Panel, but only one Harbor Commission member was included in the process.
“There’s been talk that the Harbor Commission was chapped when this committee was formed, but we’re over that,” West said. “The fact is, there’s a lot of work to be done, and we understand that not everything has to be done by the Harbor Commission.”
City Manager Dave Kiff said a possible option could be to continue the Tidelands Management Committee and the Harbor Commission in its current structure, with both groups holding meetings on the same day that would overlap, allowing for dialog to take place between the two.
John Corrough, who sat on the Harbor Commission during its first few years, said the name change is not a good idea. “The title, ‘commission’ is really important,” he said. “‘Commission’ has meaning out there in the world.”
Jeff Herdman, a member of the Citizens’ Advisory Panel of the Tidelands Management Committee, said he just wants to make sure the work the group put into the harbor management plan gets enacted.
“We want to stay on top of it,” Herdman said. “I don’t care in what format it is or anything. I just don’t want to see the work put in a notebook and sit on a shelf.”
The issue is expected to be discussed by the city council early next year. Harbor Fund Discussion
With the city’s harborwide fee increase plans about to be completed, another plan is being launched to make sure the extra revenue produced in charges for Newport Harbor facilities and activities will actually be spent on the harbor.
Assistant city attorney Michael Torres outlined potential options for a special harbor fund in Newport Beach that would allocate money to be spent directly on harbor tidelands, and not be intermixed with beach expenditures.
The move would further segregate monies generated from harbor uses to not just reach the requirement to be spent on tidelands, as laid out in the Beacon Bay Bill (SB 573), but to be specifically used for the benefit of the harbor.
The money from the city’s recent mooring fee increase, commercial marina and other harbor businesses’ rent increases and the impending residential pier fee increases are expected to go into the new fund. | 4,878 | 2,098 | 0.000504 |
warc | 201704 | I’ve been seeing more and more recipes lately for homemade cleaners using hydrogen peroxide. Why? Because hydrogen peroxide is like bleach’s friendlier cousin. It can whiten and disinfect with a milder chemical structure than bleach. Hydrogen peroxide’s chemical formation is two atoms of hydrogen and two atoms of oxygen (basically water with an extra oxygen atom) which breaks down into water and is therefore a kinder alternative for the environment.
Oh, and it’s cheap too. You gotta like that when it comes to homemade cleaners.
So I gave a couple of homemade hydrogen peroxide cleaners a try and was pretty satisfied with the results. I tried one laundry recipe and one basic cleaning recipe.
Here’s the scoop:
LAUNDRY STAINS
The basic laundry stain recipe is a mixture of Dawn dish soap and hydrogen peroxide. (You use the basic 3% hydrogen peroxide that’s available in drugstores or grocery stores). You use these two ingredients in a ratio of 1 part Dawn to 2 parts peroxide. I made a small batch of
and mixed them together in a small bowl. I used a small brush to rub it into the stained area and then let it set for a couple of hours before laundering in the washing machine. 1 teaspoon Dawn and 2 teaspoons peroxide
I tested this out on two items – a white blouse that had yellow underarm stains, and a red sweater with a greasy stain (that had already gone through the wash a few times).
The white blouse saw great improvement with the yellow stains almost entirely disappearing. This was a blouse I was about ready to toss out anyway and now it’s been given a second life!
The old grease stain on the red sweater saw some lightening, but it did not disappear altogether. The most encouraging thing was this stain recipe did not in any way lighten the red color so it appears safe to use on colors too.
Although the before and after photos don’t really show the full impact, the results were very noticeable on the white shirt.
HOUSEHOLD STAINS Another way to use your hydrogen peroxide is to mix it with baking soda or cream of tartar for a household stain cleaner. I tried this on a really nasty spot on my tub. This is a spot where water pools and over the years it has broken down the porcelain and created a stain. This stain has been resistant to all regular cleaners I have used to date. Would the peroxide be any better?
Well, it really did lighten it a lot! I was happy! I knew it would not go away completely but the spot is much, much lighter than it was before and is much less noticeable. (Sooner or later we are going to have to re-glaze the tub . . . or something).
I tried this first with a mixture of 1 tablespoon cream of tartar with enough hydrogen peroxide to make a paste. This made a pretty tiny batch, but it did work pretty well. I tried a few more applications with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. I just
. I spread it over the stain and then let it sit for several hours and then scrubbed. dumped baking soda in a bowl and added enough hydrogen peroxide to make a paste
Once again, the pictures don’t really do justice, but in real life it looks much improved. In the before picture I didn’t have the light on in the bathroom and in the second picture I did which is why the first picture looks more yellow (just in case you thought I was using Photoshop magic!)
I’m definitely going to try this on a few more dirty things.
{{ I should be able to find a few of those in my house }}
Do you have a favorite homemade mixture with hydrogen peroxide? I’d love to hear your re sults too!
** Update Here are a couple more stories of using the homemade Dawn dish soap and hydrogen peroxide stain remover. Stain remover success story #1 (a wine stain on a wool sweater) and stain remover success story #2 that someone shared with an oily stain on a coat. It’s pretty amazing stuff! | 3,905 | 1,795 | 0.00057 |
warc | 201704 | EC throws money at OSS quality control How 'good' is good?
The European Commission is investing some of the final chunks of change in its Framework 6 Research and Development budget into four projects dedicated to defining and checking the quality of open source software. The total investment is in the region of €25m, and is being matched by money from industry.
The work is being coordinated by UK open source services firm Sirius, and involves software experts from industry, academia and the open source community.
Mark Taylor, Sirius's CEO, says one of the aims of the projects is to develop a way that companies can properly evaluate the quality of an open source product.
"In our work as consultants, we only advise clients to use so-called enterprise class products. But beyond taking advice from experts, how do you quantify what counts as 'enterprise class'. Working that out is part of the motivation for us on these projects."
The four projects are as excruciatingly-named as we have come to expect from anything the EC funds.
Firstly there is QualIPSO, a four year project involving more than 30 partners. Its aim is to look at the wider picture of software quality - not just open source software. Paul Adams, Sirius's head of R&D, notes that even defining what counts as software quality is an interesting question.
Next up we have FlossMetrics, which aims to document the current state of the art of software quality measurement, and then work out what should be used in the future. QualOSS then aims to develop tools based on current metrics, while Sqo-OSS (pronounced squash) is intended to develop tools based on the newly identified metrics.
Taylor explains that they are already identifying new ways that the quality of a piece of software can be assessed, such as the level of developer activity, the kind of support a user can expect, the growth of new features and so on.
"Many of these are intangible things, intuitive and experiential," he notes.
What he hopes to achieve with the EC research is a way of formalising these measures, and turning them into tools people can use as developers to improve their work, and as customers, to make better informed purchasing decisions.
As a founder of the Open Source Consortium, Taylor also has an interest in increasing the level of professionalism in the open source community. He explains that one of the major criticisms of open source is that it is "cobbled together by a bunch of acne-ridden teens" He argues that having a way of demonstrating "provable quality" will really help tackle that.
He adds with a smile: "And we can say to the proprietary firms: I've shown you mine, now you show me yours." ® | 2,712 | 1,378 | 0.000735 |
warc | 201704 | Sat, Mar 02 2013 12:00 PM Posted By: Rudy Ramirez
This city and its residents care deeply about public safety. We take pride in knowing our streets are safe and our neighborhoods are protected. We also know our highly regarded police department deserves significant credit for everything they do to maintain public safety.
However, despite these facts, our city now faces a crisis within the police department: resources are stretched too thin and our department has been unable to reach critical goals as a result.
This isn’t an imagined crisis—we have data that reveal how limited our department truly is.
According to a recent San Diego Association of Governments report released this past December, Chula Vista ranks dead last relative to other cities throughout the county in per-capita funding for the most recent fiscal year.
Not only are we last, but our per-capita funding would need a 42 percent increase just to move into second-to-last place.
Per-capita funding isn’t the only statistic that reflects poorly upon our resource allocation. Chula Vista is also last when
it comes to the number of sworn officers per 1,000 residents.
Last year Chula Vista had only 0.93 officers per 1,000 residents—a decrease from the 1.07 we had four years ago.
Today we have less than 0.85 officers per 1,000 residents! By comparison, the region-wide average is 1.31 officers per 1,000 residents. The city of San Diego has 1.5 officers for every 1,000 residents.
The city has been aware of these issues for some time. In fact, a few months ago, we received a commissioned report from Matrix Consulting. The report pointed out the ways that the department was suffering from a staffing shortage, and provided some recommendations to the city.
The city council endorsed a Patrol Staffing Study Implementation Plan loosely conforming to a few of the Matrix Consulting Group report recommendations. They also provided the funding needed to begin implementing primary recommendations.
Specifically, the report called for an increase in “proactive time” for police officers. Proactive time is defined as the time available after officers perform their primary administrative responsibilities. Chula Vista officers currently have only about 22 percent proactive time. The recommended amount is 40 percent.
To resolve this shortage of proactive time, the city set staffing goals. Unfortunately, the city has been unable to fulfill these goals. Budgeted positions still remain unfilled. In fact, the total number of sworn officers has decreased since the report was released.
These staffing issues drastically increase the difficulty of keeping our community safe. Worse, these problems exist among a number of other circumstantial challenges.
To begin with, our police department already faces high rates of attrition. Many of our officers are considering fleeing Chula Vista to find better working condition opportunities in other cities or taking earlier retirements.
In addition, our city has seen a rising trend in the crime rate. This is an issue that has only been exacerbated by AB 109, Gov. Brown’s realignment scheme that transfers state-level prisoners to counties, often leading to early releases.
The result of this law has been a surge in the number of criminals within our communities.
In the wake of growing public concern regarding public safety within our schools, the department also anticipates a need to divert police resources toward school safety.
Sometime in the coming days, the city council will be holding a meeting that will include a discussion of this important issue. If you agree that police staffing needs to be a higher priority in Chula Vista, please attend this meeting, contact City Hall, and make sure your voice is heard.
Our primary duty is to keep our city’s streets and neighborhoods safe. Our police staffing must reflect this obligation.
Ramirez is a Chula Vista City Councilman.
© 2009 The Star-News | 3,998 | 1,891 | 0.000538 |
warc | 201704 | A senior Bradford councillor has praised the initial impact of nutrition awareness training for takeaway owners.
Councillor Val Slater, chairman of the West Yorkshire Trading Standards (WYTS) Committee, made the comments after courses held at Jacobs Well in Bradford and the Keighley Healthy Living Centre were fully booked.
The training, run with WYTS and NHS dieticians, is part of a two-year Good Food Awards project to get healthier options on takeaway menus across the district.
“Calories and salt content within takeaways are usually pretty high,” said Coun Slater. “If takeaways can learn to prepare healthier options for their customers, the health and well-being of the people in Bradford can be improved.”
Takeaway staff learned about the importance of a balanced diet and ways in which food could be prepared to improve the nutrient content and reduce salt, sugar and saturated fats.
For information on future training sessions, call (0113) 393 9813. | 988 | 587 | 0.001751 |
warc | 201704 | ‘As the United States serves notice that it plans to dominate world affairs by force, this finely researched book offers a timely and powerful warning to us all.’ – John Pilger, author of The New Rulers of the World
Following the US declaration of a ‘war on terror’, Washington hawks were quick to label Iraq part of an ‘axis of evil’. After a tense build-up, in March 2003 the United States and Britain invaded Iraq, purportedly to protect Western publics from weapons of mass destruction (WMD). But was this the real reason, or simply a convenient pretext to veil a covert agenda?
Using official sources, Ahmed investigates US and British claims about Iraq’s WMD programmes, and in the process reveals the hidden motives behind the 2003 invasion and the grand strategy of which it is a part. He shows that the true goals of US-British policy in the Middle East are camouflaged by spin, PR declarations, and seemingly noble words. The reality can only be comprehended through knowledge of the history of Western intervention in the region. Ahmed demonstrates that such intervention has been dictated ruthlessly by economic and political interests, with little regard for human rights. He traces events of the past decades, beginning with the West’s support for the highly-repressive Shah of Iran, his subsequent usurpation by the Ayatollah’s Islamist regime, and the West’s resultant backing of Saddam Hussein. The sponsorship of Saddam’s tyranny – a self-serving tactic intended to strategically counterbalance Iran – included the supply of technology to build WMD as well as tacit complicity in their use against Iranians and Kurds.
Ahmed’s meticulous research into the secret history of Western manoeuvrings in the Middle East since the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, reveals the actual causes of the first Gulf War, the humanitarian catastrophe created by the twelve-year sanctions policy against Iraq, and the consistent obstructions of the ‘Oil for Food’ programme. He also provides information on the West’s own widespread use of WMD, and the likely culprits of the 2001 anthrax attacks in the US.
NAFEEZ MOSADDEQ AHMED is an author, human rights activist, and political analyst specializing in the study of conflicts. Born in London, England in 1978 of Bangladeshi parents, he is Executive Director of the Institute for Policy Research & Development, an independent, interdisciplinary think-tank (www.globalresearch.org). Ahmed was a researcher at the Islamic Human Rights Commission (IHRC), a UN-affiliated NGO. He was also an IHRC delegate to the United Nations World Conference Against Racism in 2001, where he delivered a paper on the Israel-Palestine conflict. He is the author of a variety of reports on human rights practices, as well as a best-selling book, The War on Freedom, published in English, German and Italian.
Ahmed’s work on the history and development of conflict in Afghanistan has been recommended as a resource by leading universities, including Harvard and California State. He was recently named a Global Expert on War, Peace and International Affairs by the Freedom Network of the Henry Hazlitt Foundation in Chicago, and is a member of TRANSCEND, the international network of scholars specializing in peace and conflict resolution. His archive of political analyses, published on the Web by the Media Monitors Network, has been nominated a Cool Site on the Netscape Open Directory Project. Ahmed appears regularly on radio shows in the U.S. as an expert on US foreign policy. He lives in Brighton, England, with his wife and daughter.
June 2003; 352pp; 21.5 x 13.5 cm; paperback; £11.95; ISBN: 1 902636 44 9 | 3,752 | 1,992 | 0.000517 |
warc | 201704 | Once You’ve Done It 600 Times, You’re on Your Way to Mastery
One of my pet peeves is our culture’s focus on instant gratification.
People want everything, and they want it right now! Instant food, overnight delivery of just about any product, and – of course – dental appointments the same day they call.
Oh! I almost forgot one more thing: instant isn’t enough.
Everything must also be absolutely top quality.
I’m currently remodeling a 100-year-old home. What began as a three-month project is now scheduled to take twelve months. When discussing quality cabinetry, restorative woodworking, advanced electrical and “White House” level painting, there is no such thing as instant gratification.
We are talking about craftsmen and craftswomen who have taken years to learn their trades. Each and every one of them talks about how difficult it is to find employees willing to learn the best way to sweep a floor before they pick up a hammer or begin painting.
When I find myself getting impatient, I remind myself of the ad for the Honda Accord that features an unbelievably complex “Rube Goldberg machine” made entirely from Accord parts. This film is a great example of what it takes to master a specific task. It has no computer graphics or digital tricks. Everything you see happened in real time exactly as you see it.
The film took 606 takes.
In the first 605 takes, something, usually very minor, didn’t work. The crew would then have to set the whole thing up again. They spent weeks shooting night and day. By the time it was over, they were ready to change professions. (Sounds a bit like dental school, no?)
The film cost six million dollars. It took three months to complete, including full engineering of the sequence. In addition, it’s two minutes long, so every time Honda airs it on British television, they’re shelling out enough dough to keep any one of us in clover for a lifetime.
However,
it is fast becoming the most downloaded advertisement in Internet history, and is therefore worthy of our consideration. Honda executives figure the ad will soon pay for itself simply in free viewings alone. (Honda isn’t paying a dime to have people watch this commercial online!).
When the ad was pitched to senior executives, they signed off on it immediately without any hesitation, knowing full well how much it would cost.
There are six (and only six) hand-made Honda Accords in the world. To the horror of Honda engineers, the filmmakers disassembled two of them to make the film. Everything you see in the film (aside from the walls, floor, ramp, and complete Honda Accord) is parts from those two cars.
The voiceover is Garrison Keillor. When the ad was shown to Honda executives, they liked it and commented on how amazing computer graphics have gotten. They fell off their chairs when they found out it was for real.
Oh, and about those funky windshield wipers. On the new Accords, the windshield wipers have water sensors and are designed to start doing their thing automatically as soon as they become wet. It’s a bit alarming in the commercial.
What I really like about this commercial is that it supports my philosophy on Mastery.
True mastery takes practice. It makes no difference what the task is: martial arts, filming a commercial, remodeling a house, or cutting a crown prep. They all take practice. Often the smallest error can cause failure, and only after continued practice is mastery achieved. | 3,527 | 1,780 | 0.000578 |
warc | 201704 | That settles that then. On the other hand, if you aren't sure what issues disabled voters might care about, or are undecided yourself, read on.No-one has done more for people with disabilities than me. I have spent many millions of dollars to help out-and am happy to have done so!— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 9, 2016
The writer s.e. smith, one of my favorite collaborators and conversationalists, has written an outstanding piece for Bustle about "seven issues" that should matter to disabled voters as they head to the polls.
With all eyes on Tuesday's New Hampshire primary, the candidates are facing growing demands from all sides to fully articulate their platforms, so that voters can start making some tough decisions. However, one group of voters hasn't been well-represented in discussions about the upcoming presidential race. In fact, this group is being largely ignored by both the candidates and the media: The disability community, which accounts for nearly 20 percent of Americans. The candidates, and the American public, need to be thinking about what disabled Americans need, because many of their concerns dovetail with those of the larger country as a whole — and disability is the only minority status that can be acquired at the blink of an eye. Experiences of disability are, of course, incredibly diverse. While there's a broad umbrella over a community that shares the commonality of living with a variety of impairments (from amputations to congenital disorders), disability is not a monolith. However, there are some key issues that are of vital concern to a significant proportion of the disability voting block, and many disabled voters are keeping their eyes on how candidates address them.15.6 million disabled people voted in the 2012 cycle, and if the disability community mobilizes this year, it could become a considerable force, with many more showing up at the polls. Voting organizers are certainly hoping so, with groups like RespectAbility providing candidate information and encouraging disabled people to register — so here are seven issues relevant to disabled voters that are worth focusing on.They are: Jobs, Independent Living, Benefits Penalty, Autism Funding, Police Violence, Access to Education, and Mental Health Care
You should read this; better yet, you should share it, as there are people in your social media network with no idea what the issues are, and you'd be hard pressed to find a better primer than this piece.
P.S. Trump has spent millions of dollars in his buildings on accessibility. It's because if you build a new building, it's the law. Thank you ADA. | 2,660 | 1,393 | 0.000724 |
warc | 201704 | I no longer have a beard.
The reason I no longer have a beard is because I had to shave it for surgery.
The reason for the surgery was because I experienced what is officially called a TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack) but is better - and more terrifyingly - known as a ``little'' stroke.
This was not exactly the way I expected to spend my retirement.
It all started at 4 a.m. on a Saturday. I awoke and tried to move my right arm but had no control over it. The limb felt as if it were asleep. I really wasn't too concerned until I tried to get up to go to the bathroom. That's when I discovered that my right leg was also affected.
I still didn't get alarmed, figuring it was the result of how I was positioned in the bed.
After some time passed and the situation stayed the same, it finally dawned on me: Oh, my God, I think I'm having a stroke!
I was at a complete loss as to what to do. I figured I should call someone, but who? After all it was 4 a.m. (I now know that I should have gotten emergency treatment, but somehow that didn't really seem to be an option at the time. I didn't want to bother anyone if it didn't turn out to be serious.)
I began to get a bit panicky but forced myself to calm down. I made repeated attempts to move and walk normally, but there definitely was a partial paralysis that wasn't going away. I could get around in a shuffling manner, but it was a lot like that mummy in the old horror movies.
Not knowing what else to do and afraid to go back to bed, I staggered into the living room, plopped into the recliner, turned on the television, and fretted about my situation.
I couldn't drive myself anywhere. I couldn't even get up or down the stairs. Well, I suppose I could get down the stairs, but it certainly would be painful and sure to produce a lot of bruises.
Ridiculous as this sounds, I had always felt that I could live with death. But it never ever occurred to me that I might have to spend the rest of my life with impaired health. Who would take care of me? What was I going to do? I might need a lot of personal care. I began to think of some unmarried women I knew and wondered how they might react to a marriage proposal at 4 a.m.
Even in my addled state I figured this probably wasn't the most ideal of proposals: ``Hi, this is Tom. How would you like to get married ... and maybe take care of me the rest of my life?''
While I glumly pondered my future, I noticed that I was gaining a bit more control over both arm and leg. Awash with cautious optimism, I waited, and a few minutes later had even more movement. Within three hours, I had full control of all my limbs. It was if it never happened. The relief was overwhelming. Whew. It really was nothing after all.
At least that's what I thought until I called my doctor and was immediately ordered to undergo some tests.
That's when it was discovered that my left carotid artery was 98 percent plugged, and if the condition wasn't taken care of promptly, the odds of my having a ``big'' stroke were great indeed.
There really wasn't any choice. I was to undergo an operation.
And I was flat-out terrified. This was my first real brush with mortality and I didn't like it at all. And it concerned a lot more than the loss of my beard.
I'll have more about this in the next installment. (P.S. I lived through it.)
Tom Ensign's column will appear the first and third Wednesdays of each month.
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warc | 201704 | COLUMBUS - Governor Taft yesterday issued an executive order committing Ohio to an expensive audit of welfare accounts to identify families whose child support was withheld improperly by the state.
Reconstructing of data as much as three years old, held at the county level, is expected to cost a $18 million and involve many county employee work hours. That doesn't count the estimated price tag of $21 million awaiting the state at the end of the process, when it issues checks to the affected families.
The state estimates roughly that up to 165,000 families could have been affected. No decision has been made on whether the state also will pay families interest.
Greg Moody, interim director of the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, admitted that, at first glance, it may not make sense to spend $18 million to identify $21 million. But he said he believes it will be money well spent.
“The credibility of the whole system has been questioned,” he said. "I want to be able to say - not just to the families but also the taxpayers - that the information in the system is accurate. I do think we're operating under a higher level of credibility that makes shortcuts unwise.”
The state has asked help from the federal government, which also benefited from the withholding of the support payments.
The state figures it must also forward $7 million improperly intercepted from state income tax refunds of noncustodial parents, usually fathers, who were overdue in their child support. The federal government is expected to repay l $10 million.
“That's the most accurate way to do it, to make sure each family gets the correct amount,” said Geraldine Jensen of Toledo, president of the Association for Children for Enforcement of Support.
“It's a good use of our tax dollars,” she said. “They wouldn't have had to spend this at all if they had done it the right way to begin with. This is the cost of putting it right.”
The executive order follows through with Mr. Taft's pledge to go back to October, 1997, to identify the families, even though attorneys for the state have argued in court the state is legally obligated to go back only to October, 2000. That's the date Ohio's statewide, automated child support tracking system went fully on line.
Mr. Taft said his order “illustrates Ohio's commitment to go the extra mile in supporting families who have made the transition from welfare to work.”' The complicated game plan revolves around past-due child support payments owed by non-custodial parents to Ohio families before they joined the welfare system.
Whenever payments were made on that overdue amount, the state kept the money to offset its welfare costs, even after the family left the system. Ohio continued to do this after the 1996 federal welfare reform law placed the interest of families emerging from welfare ahead of that of the state.
Rushing to avoid more federal fines for failing to have a statewide, automated child support tracking system in place, the state opted not to stop to reprogram it before it went fully on line.
Mr. Moody said the mistake was a symptom of a department that had allowed technology decisions to override department policy that families had to come first.
The computer continues to intercept the past-due support payments to this day, although the system now reconciles its figures weekly, then forwards the payments to the families. The computer is expected to be reprogrammed to stop the interceptions by the end of next month.
Meanwhile, the state has surrendered $43 million in federal fines for missing deadlines to have the system in place and expects an $8 million fine for not promptly implementing the welfare reform changes.
The hard part for the state has been calculating support payments improperly withheld when counties were still operating their support collection and disbursement systems. In some cases, the old computer systems were turned off when the state system went on line.
Mr. Moody yesterday said the state will cover the counties' costs but admitted that, in some cases, the audits will be time-consuming and require experienced, knowledgeable staff.
The Lucas County Child Support Agency has estimated that it could cost $116,000 to extract old computer data on about 12,000 former welfare recipients who may or may not be owed money.
“The money [from the state] is the clearest way to say this is not a county mistake,'' said Mr. Moody. “This is a state mistake. To the extent possible, we don't want to harm counties for the additional resources it's going to take to correct it.”
The department's new director, former Cuyahoga County Administrator Tom Hayes, will start work on Sept. 4 and be charged with implementing the plan.
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warc | 201704 | For more than a decade TopRank Marketing has been working with health systems and healthcare technology companies to create successful integrated digital marketing programs.
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If you’d like to learn more about how we can help you be the best answer for your customers, simply Contact Us to discuss our services and solutions. | 2,737 | 1,296 | 0.000786 |
warc | 201704 | Teaching in China is top choice for travellers as numbers nearly triple
Friday 22, April 2011
As travellers seek more meaningful experiences on trips to foreign lands, i-to-i TEFL, the UK’s leading provider of TEFL courses, is seeing more and more people make like Marco Polo and become captivated by China.
In just two years, i-to-i TEFL has experienced a 152% increase in demand for English teaching internships in China and it is not hard to imagine why.
A country decidedly advanced in technology whilst remaining traditional in its customs, China offers a heady mix of cultural encounters, best experienced up close and personal.
It is estimated that over 300 million people in China, roughly the same size as the population of the USA, are learning English as a foreign language. This gives keen travellers a superb opportunity to visit and immerse themselves completely in one of the world's most fascinating cultures. Combining teaching with travelling will offer an utterly unique experience as well as advantages to a CV.
Everyone from young children to university graduates and high-powered businessmen aspire to learn English in China, so there are plentiful opportunities to teach the language.
Having completed her teaching internship, Clare Wilson, 24 originally from Leicester is now working in Beijing as a Content Manager for an online travel platform - ‘Doing the internship have me huge amounts of confidence and a safe introduction to living somewhere completely and utterly foreign’.
Gemma Turner, i-to-i TEFL General Manager commented, ‘The appeal of China is so broad and it’s not surprising that we’re seeing more people choose to teach there. Working in a foreign country puts you right in the crux of a destination’s community and culture. Passing through somewhere on your travels will give you an idea of what a place is like, but nothing compares to living and breathing it every day for five months’.
She continues ‘Taking a TEFL course and teaching abroad offers security for those that want to go travelling or do something different with their lives, but don’t want to risk leaving some form of employment.’
No teaching experience is necessary but a TEFL certificate is required. i-to-i TEFL are currently offering FREE courses worth £300 for those who sign up to an internship in China for August 2011. The internships costs £995 for 5 months including a private room in shared intern accommodation, all meals on school days, in-country airport transfers, in-country support and a two week orientation in Beijing including sightseeing, seminars, Mandarin lessons, internship allocation, all meals, hotel accommodation and great networking opportunities with all other interns. For more information visit www.onlinetefl.com
More and more travellers think that researching and planning a European city break is half the fun and they're not interested in pre-arranged trips or escorted tours. Self-guided tours offer a lot of advantages but require some guidance and good resources.
With the recent wild fires, disrupting flights and increasing air pollution, environmental quality is a growing factor in attracting tourists.
The hotel price comparison site www.trivago.co.uk has put together a list of the fifteen most spectacular hotel rooftop terraces in the world. | 3,380 | 1,692 | 0.000605 |
warc | 201704 | Romney Energy Advisor: Government Has No Business Reducing CO2 Emissions from Coal
While neither of the presidential candidates addressed the climate issue during last week's debate (even if sparks flew over clean energy), their aides nonetheless staked out each campaign's position in a separate event held last Friday at MIT. Mitt Romney's energy adviser, Oren Cass, met Obama official Joseph Aldy for a less-heralded, but lively, debate on energy issues.
According to the MIT Technology Review, which published a post-debate synopsis, Romney's aide did indeed affirm that his candidate believes "climate change is occurring," and that he "believes human activity contributes to it."
But the similarities end there. In fact, you can sum up the vast gulf between Romney and Obama on climate policy pretty effectively by looking at their aides' responses in this lone debate. MIT agreed:
Mitt Romney
In one of the most striking differences to play out during the debate, Oren Cass, Romney's advisor, said his candidate
thinks that government has no business reducing carbon emissions from coal—one of the most prevalent kinds of greenhouse gas emissions. Cass said Romney ... isn't sure how much the climate is warming, how much humans are contributing to that, or what the impact will be. Romney says further scientific study is needed.
Cass also noted that Romney would work to eliminate the EPA's Supreme Court-mandated greenhouse gas regulations on polluting industries, saying they were too strict.
Vs. Barack Obama
In sharp contrast, Obama's advisor, Joseph Aldy, said his candidate continues to support limits on carbon dioxide emissions—and will push for them with or without the support of Congress. Obama believes that the science is clear enough to say that climate change is a serious problem, and more needs to be done about it than funding R&D.
And bear in mind that these are the wonkier, more comprehensive platforms carved out by advisers, not the soundbite-friendly messages apt to be doled out by their bosses. As such, the answers here probably offer more insight into how the men would actually govern than the one-liners you might hear in one of their stump speeches. Then again, both are loathe to even mention climate much in those stump speeches — we've got a pretty good spell of climate silence going this campaign, after all.
That being the case, the responses outlined above very well could be the best-articulated climate policy stances we're going to get from either campaign this election season. And they essentially translate into the following: Romney will do his best to remove restrictions on coal pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, and does not believe the government has a role in addressing climate change. Obama, for his part, would uphold the EPA's carbon pollution regulations as they go into effect in his second term.
It's a stark and fundamental difference. With Congress as divided as it is, we're unlikely to see any climate legislation in the next few years; the EPA rules will be necessary to begin to drive the economy toward decarbonization. Which, of course, needs to happen sooner rather than later. Any government concerned of the welfare of the people it represents should indeed make it its business to reduce coal emissions. And, at the very least, that's what an Obama-backed EPA would do. | 3,386 | 1,696 | 0.000595 |
warc | 201704 | MILLBROOK - The future of the Glooscap Heritage Centre in Millbrook is in question after the society's bank account was recently frozen by the Canadian Revenue Service (CRA).
Lloyd Johnson, society chairman and the only surviving board member, said he has been informed by the CRA that the centre, which also operates the Mi'kmaw Museum, owes $240,000 in outstanding HST fees.
"That brings our situation to a halt," he said, of not being able to access society funds to pay operating costs and museum/gift shop staff. Johnson said the frozen account contains approximately $40,000.
The Central Nova Tourist Association is also housed at the site but because the society is a tenant in the building, which is owned by the Millbrook First Nations band, the tourism operations are not affected by the CRA account freeze.
"We were going along really well and things were going smoothly until the account was frozen," Johnson said, adding that he hopes to appeal the CRA decision, although so far those efforts have been futile.
Johnson said he was planning to meet with the society's tax lawyer on Tuesday in an effort to find a resolution to the impasse with the CRA.
For the moment, he said, the centre is being operated through funding it generates itself through shows, bus tours and sales from the gift shop.
But with annual operating costs set at approximately $230,000, the frozen funds are necessary for the centre's continued survival beyond December.
But failing a reversal of the CRA's demand for the $240,000, "which we don't think we owe," he said, is if a long-term payment schedule can be established.
The whole issue revolves around a previous agreement the centre once had with a tax shelter company known as Global Learning Gifting Initiative (GLGI).
Johnson said he (along with the late former Chief Lawrence Paul), has been involved in trying to establish a Mi'maw Museum in Millbrook since 1978.
Since opening in 2006, however, the centre has not been able to obtain any operational funding from either the federal or provincial governments, a factor that Johnson said ultimately led to a partnership being formed with GLGI.
Under that agreement, GLGI arranged for donations from contributors to flow to it through the centre, in exchange, Johnson said, for some in-kind computer software and overhead expense assistance.
"They send them to us and then we forward them to Global," he said, of the donations that numbered in the multi-millions of dollars.
"We're given funds to cover the overhead of the museum, because you have to understand that up to now, we have never received operational funding either from the federal government or the provincial government," Johnson said.
The benefit for donors, however, is that they were given receipts valued much greater than the actual donations.
"It comes from the more affluent people of Canada," Johnson said, of the donations.
"People who are donating to these tax shelters are expecting a receipt, which is higher than the donation. And that's the nature of the beast." he said.
"This is happening coast to coast and it's happening everywhere. Global is just one of the many. I guess the best way I can say, you know, Global, is a shrewd company that preys on minorities for personal gain. And we were in the situation of trying to get funds for a museum. They came to us and said if you will sign on to an agreement we will assist you in meeting your needs and that is setting up a learning centre. And so that is what we did, for language and culture and so on."
The society initially ran into trouble with the revenue agency in 2012 when its charitable status was revoked after the CRA deemed that its operations were primarily benefitting Global.
According to information released by the CRA at that time, it said an audit had determined that over a two-year period starting on Jan. 1, 2008, the society received more than $24.8 million in cash and property. Of the $13.4 million in cash that was received, the agency says the society paid more than $3.75 million to the promoters of the tax shelter.
The audit also found that the society was directed to pay more than $8.76 million to another charity participating in the tax shelter, while the society retained $900,000 for its own activities.
The CRA further said that the society had issued $11.4 million in tax receipts that were grossly inflated.
Johnson said when the society's accounting firm looked at its financial books, the records were returned.
"And he said this is not illegal, but through Grant Thornton it's immoral, so we cannot do your audit."
The society's lawyer also suggested that the partnership with Global should cease after it had caught the attention of the CRA, Johnson said, at which point the entire six-member board, with the exception of he and Paul, opted to step down.
"And Lawrence said: ‘Are you going to bail too?' And I said, ‘no, I can't,'" Johnson said.
When the initial Global partnership ended, so did the society's main source of funding, he said, at which point Paul suggested writing to the previous donors.
"So he said if these people that donated are that kind hearted and are really concerned about us, let's send everyone a request for a donation. In a whole year we never received one donation," Johnson said.
"So Chief Lawerence Paul comes back and says we still have overhead and so on and Global wants to know if we'd be interested in doing it again.
"And so that's what we did and the donations flowed back in."
Johnson said not only is the society being asked to pay for HST money he does not believe it owes, but he believes the CRA is also undervaluing the worth of computer software that Global provided as an in-kind payment.
"They were flowing money through us and the donations were sent to us and we forwarded the money to them along with the HST. Somewhere along the way, I believe that they didn't pay the HST."
Johnson said the only salvation for the society at this point is if he steps down as chairman and an entire new board is established.
In the meantime, not only is the society at risk of having its assets seized by the CRA but Johnson's personal assets are also at risk.
On top of that, the Millbrook RCMP have begun an investigation into the society's affairs for what Johnson said he has heard is in reference to an alleged misappropriation of funds.
An RCMP spokesperson was not available for comment on Monday. A call to both Global for comment was not returned by deadline while a spokesperson for the CRA said it would provide a later statement.
"Why would I participate (in the Global scheme)?" Johnson said. "Because the system has denied us for eight years."
hsullivan@trurodaily.com
Twitter: @tdnharry | 6,792 | 3,106 | 0.000326 |
warc | 201704 | Clinical manifestations and diagnosis of candidemia and invasive candidiasis in adults Author Carol A Kauffman, MD
Carol A Kauffman, MD
Section Editor — Fungal Infections Professor of Internal Medicine University of Michigan Medical School Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System
INTRODUCTION
The term candidemia describes the presence of
Candidaspecies in the blood. Candidain a blood culture should never be viewed as a contaminant and should always prompt a search for the source. In all cases, candidemia requires treatment with an antifungal agent; it should never be assumed that removal of a catheter alone is adequate therapy for candidemia. (See "Treatment of candidemia and invasive candidiasis in adults".)
Clinical issues related to the clinical manifestations and diagnosis of candidemia will be reviewed here. The epidemiology, pathogenesis, and treatment of candidemia are discussed separately.
Candidaendocarditis; hepatosplenic candidiasis (chronic disseminated candidiasis); Candidaendophthalmitis; Candidainfections of the central nervous system, bladder, and kidneys; empiric treatment of presumed invasive candidiasis; and an overview of Candidainfections are also presented elsewhere. (See "Epidemiology and pathogenesis of candidemia in adults" and "Treatment of candidemia and invasive candidiasis in adults" and "Candida endocarditis and suppurative thrombophlebitis" and "Chronic disseminated candidiasis (hepatosplenic candidiasis)" and "Treatment of endogenous endophthalmitis due to Candida species" and "Candida infections of the central nervous system" and "Candida infections of the bladder and kidneys" and "Overview of Candida infections".)
Candidemia in neonates and children is discussed in detail separately. (See "Epidemiology and risk factors for Candida infection in neonates" and "Clinical manifestations and diagnosis of Candida infection in neonates" and "Treatment of Candida infection in neonates" and "Prevention of Candida infection in neonates" and "Candidemia and invasive candidiasis in children: Clinical manifestations and diagnosis" and "Candida infections in children: An overview" and "Candidemia and invasive candidiasis in children: Management".)
CLASSIFICATION
Candidemia may be only the most obvious manifestation of invasive infection with
Candidaspecies. Some experts have proposed dividing invasive Candidainfections into three subgroups: candidemia without deep-seated or visceral involvement, candidemia with deep-seated or visceral Candidainfection, and deep-seated (visceral) candidiasis without candidemia [1]. In at least one study, each entity was responsible for approximately one-third of cases [2]. The diagnosis of invasive candidiasis is made most easily in those patients with positive blood cultures, but the low sensitivity of blood cultures means that some patients with deep-seated infection may be missed. More rapid techniques for identifying yeasts in blood cultures and refinement of non–culture-based techniques are active areas of investigation. (See 'Diagnosis' below.)
Empiric treatment of patients who are at high risk for invasive infection with
Candidaspecies is necessary in some situations and is discussed elsewhere. (See "Treatment of candidemia and invasive candidiasis in adults", section on 'Empiric antifungal therapy'.)
Subscribers log in hereTo continue reading this article, you must log in with your personal, hospital, or group practice subscription. For more information or to purchase a personal subscription, click below on the option that best describes you:Literature review current through: Dec 2016. | This topic last updated: Wed Sep 21 00:00:00 GMT+00:00 2016.The content on the UpToDate website is not intended nor recommended as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your own physician or other qualified health care professional regarding any medical questions or conditions. The use of this website is governed by the UpToDate Terms of Use ©2017 UpToDate, Inc.References
Clancy CJ, Nguyen MH. Finding the "missing 50%" of invasive candidiasis: how nonculture diagnostics will improve understanding of disease spectrum and transform patient care. Clin Infect Dis 2013; 56:1284. Leroy O, Gangneux JP, Montravers P, et al. Epidemiology, management, and risk factors for death of invasive Candida infections in critical care: a multicenter, prospective, observational study in France (2005-2006). Crit Care Med 2009; 37:1612. Wilson ML, Davis TE, Mirrett S, et al. Controlled comparison of the BACTEC high-blood-volume fungal medium, BACTEC Plus 26 aerobic blood culture bottle, and 10-milliliter isolator blood culture system for detection of fungemia and bacteremia. J Clin Microbiol 1993; 31:865. Muñoz P, Bernaldo de Quirós JC, Berenguer J, et al. Impact of the BACTEC NR system in detecting Candida fungemia. J Clin Microbiol 1990; 28:639. Gherna M, Merz WG. Identification of Candida albicans and Candida glabrata within 1.5 hours directly from positive blood culture bottles with a shortened peptide nucleic acid fluorescence in situ hybridization protocol. J Clin Microbiol 2009; 47:247. Shepard JR, Addison RM, Alexander BD, et al. Multicenter evaluation of the Candida albicans/Candida glabrata peptide nucleic acid fluorescent in situ hybridization method for simultaneous dual-color identification of C. albicans and C. glabrata directly from blood culture bottles. J Clin Microbiol 2008; 46:50. Spanu T, Posteraro B, Fiori B, et al. Direct maldi-tof mass spectrometry assay of blood culture broths for rapid identification of Candida species causing bloodstream infections: an observational study in two large microbiology laboratories. J Clin Microbiol 2012; 50:176. Reiss E, Obayashi T, Orle K, et al. Non-culture based diagnostic tests for mycotic infections. Med Mycol 2000; 38 Suppl 1:147. Odabasi Z, Mattiuzzi G, Estey E, et al. Beta-D-glucan as a diagnostic adjunct for invasive fungal infections: validation, cutoff development, and performance in patients with acute myelogenous leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome. Clin Infect Dis 2004; 39:199. Ostrosky-Zeichner L, Alexander BD, Kett DH, et al. Multicenter clinical evaluation of the (1-->3) beta-D-glucan assay as an aid to diagnosis of fungal infections in humans. Clin Infect Dis 2005; 41:654. Obayashi T, Negishi K, Suzuki T, Funata N. Reappraisal of the serum (1-->3)-beta-D-glucan assay for the diagnosis of invasive fungal infections--a study based on autopsy cases from 6 years. Clin Infect Dis 2008; 46:1864. Mohr JF, Sims C, Paetznick V, et al. Prospective survey of (1→3)-beta-D-glucan and its relationship to invasive candidiasis in the surgical intensive care unit setting. J Clin Microbiol 2011; 49:58. Nguyen MH, Wissel MC, Shields RK, et al. Performance of Candida real-time polymerase chain reaction, β-D-glucan assay, and blood cultures in the diagnosis of invasive candidiasis. Clin Infect Dis 2012; 54:1240. US Food and Drug Administration. FDA news release. FDA allows marketing of the first test to identify five yeast pathogens directly from a blood sample. www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm415728.htm (Accessed on September 24, 2014). Mylonakis E, Clancy CJ, Ostrosky-Zeichner L, et al. T2 magnetic resonance assay for the rapid diagnosis of candidemia in whole blood: a clinical trial. Clin Infect Dis 2015; 60:892. Kourkoumpetis TK, Fuchs BB, Coleman JJ, et al. Polymerase chain reaction-based assays for the diagnosis of invasive fungal infections. Clin Infect Dis 2012; 54:1322. Ahmad S, Khan Z, Mustafa AS, Khan ZU. Seminested PCR for diagnosis of candidemia: comparison with culture, antigen detection, and biochemical methods for species identification. J Clin Microbiol 2002; 40:2483. McMullan R, Metwally L, Coyle PV, et al. A prospective clinical trial of a real-time polymerase chain reaction assay for the diagnosis of candidemia in nonneutropenic, critically ill adults. Clin Infect Dis 2008; 46:890. Lau A, Halliday C, Chen SC, et al. Comparison of whole blood, serum, and plasma for early detection of candidemia by multiplex-tandem PCR. J Clin Microbiol 2010; 48:811. INTRODUCTION CLASSIFICATION EPIDEMIOLOGY AND RISK FACTORS CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS DIAGNOSIS Culture and stain of biopsy material Blood cultures Non-culture methods - Beta-D-glucan and other antigen assays - T2Candida - Polymerase chain reaction - Antibody assays SOCIETY GUIDELINE LINKS SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS REFERENCES | 8,581 | 3,740 | 0.00027 |
warc | 201704 | The American Veterinary Medical Association in 1972 authorized the creation of an accreditation program for the raining of animal technicians. Originally called the Committee on Accreditation of Training for Animal Technicians (CATAT), the committee was charged with all the duties associated with regards to the implementation and continuation of setting the standards by which animal technicians should be trained. The focus was slightly changed in 1974 to include not only education but all activities performed by animal technicians, with a name change to the Committee on Animal Technician Activities and Training. In 1989, a name change substituted “veterinary” for “animal,” and that committee subsequently had a name change itself the following year when the executive board decided to change the name to its present moniker, the Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (CVTEA).
Mission Statement Created The stated intent by the committee and its mission statement developed in 2001 is to shape the future of veterinary medicine. The committee is established to promote veterinary technology. It also promotes a veterinary professional team approach supported through education, quality, integrity, leadership and collegiality. That committee views the accreditation of educational programs as a service to the public informing people that these recognized institutions and programs offer quality education that will benefit its graduates providing them with the knowledge, skills, expertise and experience to act as veterinary technicians, thus enhancing their prospects for greater employment and career mobility. Committee Objectives The committee objectives include: • Accreditation of veterinary technology programs. • Continual assistance developing and implementing veterinary technology programs. • Ongoing study of any and all matters pertaining to veterinary technician activity and advising the executive board on how to implement AVMA policy pertaining to this. Committee Membership Their 19 members on the committee that include 10 veterinarians, one in each of the following categories: • the Association’s Council on Education • State boards of veterinary medical examiners • private large animal practices • private small animal practices • member at large
Additionally, the committee includes six veterinary technicians of which two must be non-program affiliated and one must be involved in veterinary technology education. Also, the committee has one Canadian member of the Canadian veterinary medical Association from the Animal Health Technologist/Veterinary Technician Program Accreditation Committee. This person can be either a veterinarian or a veterinary technician. Plus, the committee consists of two public members who are not engaged in veterinary medicine and are not veterinary technicians. All technician members must be in good standing as members of the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA).
Meetings are held twice a year in Schaumburg, IL.
Recent: CVTEA anything | 3,128 | 1,358 | 0.000753 |
warc | 201704 | Skin Grafts Article Written by Dr. Daniel A. Degner, Board-certified Veterinary Surgeon (DACVS) Key Points Skin grafts are an excellent modality used to reconstruct wound located on the limbs and other areas of the body With ideal wound conditions, 95 to 100% survival of the skin graft is expected After healing takes place, the skin graft should provide a durable covering over the wound
Definition of a skin graft A skin graft is a piece of skin that has been totally removed from the body and placed on a wound. Blood vessels in the wound bed will quickly grow into the underside of the skin graft, thus bringing it back to life. If the blood vessels cannot grow quickly enough into the the underside of the skin graft, the graft will die. For this reason the wound must be adequate to nutritionally support the graft and the surgeon must very carefully prepare the skin graft so that vessels will be able to grow into the graft.
Indications for skin grafts Skin grafts are used for wounds that are caused by traumatic accidents oncological surgery (tumor removal) thermal burns chemical burns vesicant burns - injected medications such as chemotherapeutic medications or some injectable anesthetics The procedure has the advantage of requiring only one surgery once the wound bed is adequately prepared for grafting.
Contraindications for skin grafts Skin grafts frequently do not "take" (die) in the following cases radiation has been administered to the area prior to surgery over bone over tendons and ligaments poorly vascular wound beds high motion locations that cannot be immobilized infection in the wound
Types of skin grafts that are used to repair wounds Full-thickness skin grafts are most commonly used in dogs and cats. This involves removing the a piece of skin and removing the fat from the underside of the skin. The donor site must have enough surrounding loose skin so that the incision can be closed. The survival ("take") of a full-thickness skin graft is the same as a partial-thickness skin graft. Partial-thickness skin grafts skin grafts involve shaving a very thin layer of skin off the donor site. No hair will grow from this skin graft because the hair follicles are in the deeper layers of the skin. The donor site will heal on its own and does not involve closure of an incision. This type of graft donor site can be more painful, as the raw donor site will have many exposed nerve endings that need to heal over with time. The indication for partial thickness skin grafting is for cases in which a dog has massive skin loss (especially a burn victim) and there is limited normal skin that is available to be used for skin grafting.
Phases of healing of a skin graft Imbibition: the small blood vessels on the under side of the skin graft soak up fluid (serum) from the wound bed,which provides oxygen and nutrients during the first 2 days after surgery. Inosculation: to "inosculate" means to "kiss". Small blood vessels (capillaries) in the wound bed meet up (kiss) and connect with cut vessels of the skin graft. At this time blood begins to circulate in the skin graft and provide it nutrition. Inosculation typically occurs within 48 hours after surgery, depending on the condition of the wound bed. Revascularization: small capillary blood vessels bud and grow into the capillary vessels of the skin graft like a snake would slide down a tunnel, thus providing a great source of blood to the skin graft. Revascularization of the graft takes place from day 4 to 7 after surgery.
Wound preparation and skin grafting procedure
Skin grafting requires a fastidious bed to provide an excellent "take" of the skin A wound bed that is ideal for a skin graft is granulation tissue (pink red healing tissue), muscle or fascia over a muscle. If the wound bed does not have an ideal surface for skin grafting, the procedure will be delayed until a healthy granulation tissue bed has developed. This may take about 7 to 10 days. For example if a skin tumor has been removed from a limb, the wound can be covered with a bandage and the grafting delayed until granulation tissue is present. The bandage will need to be replaced daily until skin grafting is performed. Similarly, if a dog sustains a wound due to trauma, the grafting will be delayed until healthy granulation tissue is present. If the granulation tissue is excessive, it will be trimmed down to the surface of the edges of the skin and the grafting procedure is delayed for four days. On the day of the procedure your pet will be anesthetized and a site will be selected from which a skin graft will be collected. This site typically is the side of the abdomen or chest region, as there is abundant skin that can be safely removed without ill effects to your pet. As the skin graft is being elevated the fat will be carefully cut off the under side of the skin. Small holes will be made in the skin graft to allow fluid to escape from beneath the flap. The accumulation of fluid under the graft will prevent separate the skin from the granulation tissue and prevent the ingrowth of blood vessels into the graft. The skin graft is stapled or sutured over the wound (see photo left) and the limb is bandaged. After surgery, it is imperative that the grafted are is bandaged and supported with a splint to prevent motion at the graft site. The first bandage is typically kept in place for about four to five days after surgery. Care is taken when changing the bandage so that the skin graft is not pulled off the wound bed with bandage material that may be adhered to the skin. In the photo right (4 days after surgery), the dressing layer that is stuck on the graft is not removed, rather triple antibiotic ointment is applied over this layer and the limb is rebandaged. By seven days after surgery, the graft should be well secured to the granulation tissue bed and all layers of the bandage can be removed. The skin graft in the photo right is seen 18 days after surgery. Approximately 99% of the graft has survived and the dog is doing very well. Skin grafts provide a thin covering over distal extremities, therefore are very cosmetic. Hair growth on the skin graft may be sparse, which may be related damage to the hair follicles during collection of the skin graft. The hair usually can be oriented in the appropriate direction to match that of the native coat of the limb.
Care at home
Limit activity for 3 weeks after surgery Keep the bandage dry Check the toes for swelling and coldness if the graft site is on a limb (while the bandage is on) Return to your veterinarian at the scheduled times for bandage changes After the bandage is no longer needed, cover the graft site with a sock (if the graft site is on a limb) for a period of 3 to 4 weeks to prevent your pet from licking and chewing at the site. If needed, an Elizabethan collar may be recommended to prevent self-mutilation
Prognosis With an ideal wound bed, about 95 to 100% "take" of the skin graft is expected. Survival of the skin graft is dependant on restricting your pets activity, especially during the first week Skin grafts frequently do not grow hair, but provide a durable covering over the wound (see photo right of a skin graft 7 weeks after surgery).
References Guille AE, Tseng LW, Orsher RJ. Use of vacuum-assisted closure for management of a large skin wound in a cat. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2007; 230-1669-1673. Aragon CL, Harvey SE, Allen SW, McCrackin-Stevenson MA. Partial thickenss skin grafting for large thermal skin wounds in dogs. Comp Contin Edu Pract Vet 2004; 200-215. Carson-Dunkerley SA, Hanson RR. Equine skin grafting: principles and field application. Comp for Cont Education for Vet; 1997. Swaim SF: Skin Grafts in Swaim SF (ed): Surgery of Traumatized Skin: Management and Reconstruction in the Dog and Cat. Philadelphia, WB Saunders Co 1980, pp 423-476. Lees MJ, Fretz Pb, Bailey JV, Jacobs KA: Principles of grafting. Compend Contin Educ Pract Vet 1989; 11:954-961. Converse JM, Smahel J, Ballantyne Dl, et al: Inosculation of vessels of skin graft and host bed: A fortuitous encounter. Br J Plast Surg 1983; 29:274-282. Ross GE. Clinical Canine skin grafting. J Am vet Med Assoc 1986; 153:1759-1765. Bauer MS, Pope ER: The effects of skin graft thickness on graft viability and change in original graft area in dgos. Vet surg 1986;15(4):321-324. Pope ER: Effect of skin grat prparation and graft viability on the secondary contraction of full-thickness skin grafts in dogs. Am J Vet Res 1985; 46(12)2530-2535. McKever PJ, Braden TDD: Comparison of full- and partial-thickness autogenous skin transplantation in dogs: A pilot study J Am Vet Res 1978; 39(10):1706-1709. Probst CW, Peyton LC, Binham Hg, et al. Split-thickness skin grafting in the dog. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 1983;19:555-568.
Frequently Asked Questions After Surgery
When should my dog have the first bowel movement after surgery?
Many dogs will not have a bowel movement for the first 4 to 5 days after surgery Reasons that a dog will not have regular bowel movements after surgery include: The dog has been fasted prior to surgery Dogs do not eat well during the hospital stay They frequently do not eat well when they go home They are fed highly digestible food that produces little stool Pain medication that contain narcotics (such as morphine, fentanyl patches, and tramadol) can be constipating If a pet does not have a bowel movement on the 5th day of being home, a stool softener such as metamucil can be fed Dose of metamucil is 1 tsp per 25 Kg mixed in with each meal (canned dog food); feed immediately after mixing, as the metamucil will gel the food and may make it less palatable
My pet had surgery and will not eat. What can be done? Dogs Most pets will not eat their regular dog food after surgery, especially if it is kibble. Offer a cooked diet having a 1:1 ratio of a protein source and carbohydrate source. The protein source can be any meat (example: chicken breast, turkey breast, lean hamburger) that is low in fat and should be cooked (drain off all fat after the meat has been cooked). The carbohydrate can be pasta, potato or white rice. Try canned dog food; to enhance the flavor sprinkle a very small amount of garlic powder or chicken or beef broth (Chicken-in-a- Mug TM or Beef-in-a-Mug TM products) Try Gerber strained meats for babies such as the chicken, beef, turkey, or veal Try Hill's A/D diet available at most veterinary hospitals Hand feeding: place a small amount of food in the mouth so that your dog gets the flavor Warm the food slightly in a microwave, as the food will be more aromatic; stir the food before feeding and test the temperature on the bottom side of your wrist; it should only be luke warm. Remember that most pets will not eat the first day or two after they get home from surgery Cats Offer smelly foods that contain fish such as tuna or smelly cat foods Try Gerber strained meats for babies such as the chicken, beef, turkey or veal Hand feeding: with your finger place a small amount of food on the roof of your cat's mouth; use a syringe to get soft food into the mouth Warm the food slightly in a microwave as the food will be more aromatic; remember to stir the food before feeding and test the temperature; it should be only luke-warm Some cats will only eat dry food, try kibble if your cat normally has been fed that food Petting and stroking your cat frequently will help to stimulate appetite Remember that most pets will not eat the first day or two after they get home from surgery Appetite stimulants such as cyproheptadine may be helpful If your cat refuses to eat anything for 7 days a stomach tube or nasogastric tube should be placed to provide nutrition so that a serious liver problem (hepatic lipidosis) does not develop
My pet is vomiting. What can be done? The first thing for you to discern is whether your pet is vomiting or regurgitating. Both will result in fluid or food being brought up. Vomiting always will have heaving or retching of the abdomen prior to expulsion of the vomitus. Regurgitation is not associated with heaving and the pet usually just opens the mouth and fluid or food will be expelled. Usually the regurgited material will be clear or brown colored fluid. Next is to identify the cause of the vomiting or regurgitation. Causes and treatment of vomiting after surgery When some pets return home after a stay in the hospital they may drink excessive amounts of water at one time and then vomit; if this appears to be the case, the water should be limited to frequent smaller amounts. Medications such as antibiotics, narcotics or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication commonly cause vomiting after surgery. In order to see which medication is causing the problem, the administration of each drug should be separated 2 hours apart. Usually the pet will vomit or appear nauseated (drooling and sick look) within 1 hour of administration of the medication that they are sensitive to. The antibiotic in some cases may be changed to a different one, or may be discontinued. Stomach upset from anesthesia is a potential cause of vomiting and will pass within a couple of days. An uncommon cause of vomiting after surgery is internal organ failure. Blood testing will confirm this problem. For this reason vomiting should not be ignored if it persists for more than 24 hours. If your pet had surgery of the bowels or stomach, vomiting is always a concern, as it may indicate that infection of the abdominal cavity, called peritonitis, is present. Do not ignore this sign. Symptomatic treatment of vomiting involves withholding food for 12 to 24 hours, then introducing small amounts of bland food such as rice and lean cooked hamburger, if your pet does not vomit after that then gradually wean him/her back onto the regular diet after 3 days. In order to decrease the acidity of the stomach, Pepcid AC 0.5 mg/kg can be given by mouth twice daily for 5 days. Metoclopramide and Cerenia are good anti-vomiting medications for dogs and cats. You should always consult a veterinary healthcare professional before administering medication. Causes and treatment of regurgitation after surgery The most common cause of regurgitation is reflux of acid from the stomach into the esophagus while your pet is under anesthesia. Acidic fluid from the stomach can cause a chemical burn of the esophagus and result in a bad case of heart burn, called esophagitis. This results in poor motility of the esophagus, therefore water and food will accumulate in this structure. In most cases, esphagitis is self-eliminating and will resolve within two or three days. If the esophagitis is severe the esophagus may develop one or more strictures. A stricture is a narrowing or stenosis of the esophagus and does not allow passage of food down the esophagus, in regurgitation that lasts longer than one week. This problem should be brought to the attention of your pet's doctor within the first two weeks so that it can be treated by ballooning the stricture (minimally invasive procedure, as it is done with the aide of an endoscope). If an esophageal stricture is chronic surgery is needed. Symptomatic treatment of regurgitation caused by esophagitis includes feeding bland food, and administering a coating agent (sucralfate) and an acid blocker (omeprazole or other). Consult a veterinary health care professional if the regurgitation continues for more than a couple of days.
How do I know that my dog is in pain following surgery? Signs of pain include crying biting if you get near the surgical site grimacing (lips are pulled back and the the dog looks anxious) tragic facial expression panting restlessness and unable to sleep; pacing if abdominal surgery was done the pet will not lie down on the incision, or will continually sit up in spite of appearing very tired the worst pain will be for the first 2 to 3 days after surgery
What can I do to control my dog's pain? Narcotic medications that control pain: tramadol, butorphanol, Duragesic (fentanyl patch) Anti-inflammatories used to control pain: Deramaxx, Rimadyl, Previcox, or Etogesic If an orthopedic surgery has been done cold packing the surgical site may be helpful A cold pack may be a pack of frozen peas, crushed ice in a Ziploc bag, or a cold gel pack; place a thin barrier between the skin and the cold pack. An alternative to a cold pack is to freeze water in a styrofoam cup; after frozen cut the bottom of the styrofoam cup out. Cool the surgical site around the incision by rubbing the exposed ice directly on the skin in a circular pattern. Cooling the surgical site helps to numb the area.
How do I know that my cat is in pain following surgery? Pain is more difficult to assess in cats versus dogs, as signs can be more subtle and they usually do not vocalize when in pain Signs of pain in a cat include the following: biting if you get near the surgical site growling or deep cry not wanting to eat hiding and not wanting to be near owner (remember that this could also be caused by the cat just being upset about leaving home and coming back)
What can be done for pain at home for my cat? Pain medication such as buprenorphine or a Duragesic (fentanyl) patch Tylenol will kill a cat as they lack abundant glutathione enzyme in the liver Anti-inflammatories can be used, but the dose is much less than dogs
Is it okay for my pet to lick the incision? If a dog licks the incision, the healing process may be delayed. Licking can remove stitches and cause the incision to open Licking can become a severe habit that is difficult to break Licking can cause infection as the mouth has many bacteria Dogs will frequently lick the incision when the owner is not watching such as at night time; if the skin looks red or excoriated the most common cause is from licking. To stop your pet from licking the following can be tried: Elizabethan collar can be placed on the neck; this will not help stop your pet from scratching at the region Cervical collar (bite not collar) is a less awkward device and can be effective at stopping a pet from licking the surgical site A tee shirt can be used to cover an incision on the chest or front part of the abdomen; gather the waist of the shirt up over the dog's back and wrap an elastic band around this part of the shirt. A bandage or sock can be used to cover an incision on a limb; fasten the top of the sock to the dog's limb with tape. Bitter apple can be applied around the incision; many dogs will continue to lick after application of this topical Bitter Apple and Liquid Heet TM (obtain this from a drugstore...it is used for sore muscles) mixed in a 2:1 ratio can be applied around the skin incision Antipsychotic medication in some cases is needed Board-certification by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons What does it mean? Four years of advanced training in surgery beyond the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Degree Experience in the development of new surgical treatments Rigorous examination by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons to ensure competency in advanced surgical techniques Assurance that a veterinarian is a surgical specialist
All information on this web site is copyright © 2004 Vet Surgery Central Inc. VCS Inc. will not be held liable for any information on this site that may be used for or against medical litigation. | 19,365 | 7,894 | 0.000127 |
warc | 201704 | a. Purpose/Goal Gene Block, the Vice President and Provost, along with Bob Sweeney, Senior Vice President for Development and Public Affairs, propose a program to be called "University Envision." The purpose of University Envision is to provide a forum for University deans and their most engaged faculty members and administrators to discuss the defining elements of each school, as well as their expectations for each school and for the institution. As it is conducted in each school, the program will be called "Envision [school name]" (for example, "Envision McIntire") to emphasize the school or unit-based nature of the program. University Envision will allow specific school-based groups to comment broadly on the direction of their individual schools and how the schools might influence and support a vision for the whole institution. Once individual school sessions have been held, the deans will meet with the Provost to conduct a similar session. This will allow the deans, Provost and other University leaders to better understand how the individual schools aspirations differ or dovetail, and to apply these aspirations to the University as a whole. b. Planning Processes The University Envision program will also serve the additional purpose of preparing the schools to address the three-year planning process, announced by the President in his April 2001 State of the University address. The three-year planning process is proposed to begin in January 2002, with school plans to be developed tentatively by December of that year. This visioning program will help set the stage for the deans in formulating specific strategic goals for their schools. c. Design In order to achieve the goal of a productive visioning process, it is critical that the deans and others in each school have an opportunity to think about the schools future in an open, reflective, high trust and low risk environment. The emphasis in the sessions will be on open discussion among the faculty, administrators and deans, with the Provost in a listening position. The following format is proposed to create this environment.
a. Pre-session preparation A brief information packet will be prepared and sent to participants before each session, in order to provide a set of planning assumptions as a common understanding and starting point for the discussions. The packet may have information relative both to the University as a whole and to the individual school, including data on enrollment, budget, facilities, fund-raising, demographics, etc. While participants may wish to comment on the data or to introduce additional information to supplement or respond to the data packet, the session is not meant to be an opportunity to showcase at length the strengths/weaknesses of the school, although this may be one topic of discussion. b. Session The dean will convene a group of 15-20 of the schools most thoughtful and influential faculty members and administrators to discuss the schools goals and aspirations for the future. It is proposed that the chief communication officer and the chief development officer from that school also be present as stakeholders in the discussion. Because the purpose of the sessions will be to understand the thoughts and opinions of the participants, and not to dictate a predetermined school or institutional vision, the deans are asked to listen and contribute as they choose. The session will run approximately three hours (i.e., a morning or an afternoon), and will be facilitated by an independent professional who is well-acquainted with the University. The Provost will be present in each session, primarily to listen and learn, but also to offer comments, as needed, on overall University direction. Other institutional stakeholders also may be present in a listening role: the Senior Vice President for Development and Public Affairs, and his chief communication officer (for development purposes); and the Chief Planning Officer. Others who will be invited to sit in as observers include: the Vice President for Research and Public Service, and the deans of each school.
While a fundamental set of questions will be used to stimulate the visioning process in each school (see below), each dean will have the opportunity to suggest questions appropriate to a specific school.
c. Proposed Questions Questions for the sessions might fall under the following headings: defining elements; challenges; visioning. These questions are suggested as preliminary questions; it is expected that the issues will vary from school to school, and that certain topics will be probed more deeply as appropriate in each session. 1. Defining elements When you hear others describe the strengths of the School, what do they say? How would a new faculty member describe the culture of the School? How do you describe it? What are the most important issues facing the School now (or in the next 3-5 years)? What is at the "core" of the School that is so essential to its mission or identity that it should always be protected? And, what should always be open to change? 2. Visioning What are the "headlines" (accomplishments) you would like to see regarding the School in the next 3-5 years? Whats going on in the Schools environment that could help the School achieve those? What are the challenges/threats to the School that could make it difficult to achieve them? Does the School have specific goals for the next 3-5 years? For the coming year? If yes, what are they? 3. Other Issues Looking down the road, what is your greatest concern regarding the School? The University? What are the key strategies for moving the School toward your hopes (and avoiding the major threats)? What havent we asked that we should be asking? d. Post-session follow-up A scribe will be used to make a record of the discussion in each session. The discussion notes will be reviewed by the participants after the session, for accuracy and the "sense" of the group. The information from the school sessions will be distributed to all the deans for use in a session to be held with the Provost on overall institutional direction. The feedback from all the University Envision sessions will be used to: help modify the proposed Virginia 2020 short-term goals and actions; shape institutional direction in areas that are not covered under the four Virginia 2020 areas; begin preparations for the three-year planning process; provide a common understanding about school aspirations in order to better communicate with external constituencies. | 6,549 | 2,696 | 0.000372 |
warc | 201704 | Stroke is a brain attack caused either by a broken blood vessel that results in bleeding in the brain or, more commonly, a blockage by a blood clot or plaque. The blockage interrupts the flow of oxygen, and brain tissue dies.
Stroke was the second-leading global cause of death behind heart disease in 2013, accounting for 11.8 percent of total deaths worldwide, and it was the leading cause of preventable disability, according to the American Stroke Association.
Brad Worrall, a professor of neurology at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, said stroke "is a relatively generic term that actually comes from antiquity"; it is drawn from the notion of the victim being "struck down by the hand of God.”
Researchers led by Worrell have now discovered the biological underpinnings of the blockage-type stroke, called ischemic stroke. This type "can be caused by a clot forming in the heart and breaking loose and going and causing blockage, by an embolism or something traveling through the blood, [or] by hardening of the arteries in the blood vessels of the neck or blood vessels at the base of the brain.”
The genes that predispose people to ischemic stroke were found in a massive study involving 17,000 stroke patients and healthy people. Researchers then replicated the search in tens of thousands of patients around the world.
Worrall said the discoveries, published in the journal
Lancet Neurology, give scientists avenues through which to explore the biological mechanisms of stroke.
“And at the end of the day, the most important thing is to prevent the disability from stroke," he said. "We want to identify ways to prevent this horrible disease from claiming more victims.”
The findings, Worrall said, might one day help lead to the development of targeted treatments to prevent strokes. | 1,845 | 963 | 0.001059 |
warc | 201704 | In high dudgeon, Dave Hudak wrote me recently:
“Last year I planted twenty one azaleas. They were inexpensive one gallon plants. Eight died within seven months. I’ve noticed that the others are struggling but still trying to grow. When I dug the dead ones up to take them back to the nursery I could see that no new roots had grown out of the ball.
I planted the replacements this week but I noticed the root balls were so hard and compacted that I had a hard time even getting a screwdriver into the balls to loosen the roots. I think nurseries should tell gardeners of the degree of loosening necessary. I liked the $2.95 price but it doesn’t cover the labor and disappointment when plants don’t live.”
I wholeheartedly sympathize with the disappointment that accompanies the demise of a plant you fancy. I believe my spectacular and supposedly winter-hardy abutilon (Abutilon ‘Marion Stewart’) met its demise this winter.
On the other hand, the agastache ‘Blue Fortune’ and my ‘Miss Huff’ lantana have sprouted vigorously at the base and I look forward to another summer full of butterflies. The disfigured azalea I rescued from a pile of rocks two years ago even bloomed this April!
ENCOURAGE THE ROOTS Back to Dave and his problem. Azaleas and rhododendrons are famous for having tight root systems in pots. The shrubs naturally have fibrous roots which seek areas of moisture and warmth. That exactly describes the space between the growing media and the inside of a black pot. A mature azalea in a one gallon pot could have a root layer a quarter inch thick with the texture of shoe leather.
Once planted, roots in this condition will not explore the surrounding soil. The root ball dries readily and that starts it down the slippery slope to the compost pile (or back to the garden center).
Personally, I use a razor knife to longitudinally slit the lower half of a tight football four to six times. I then use my fingers and thumbs to splay the sections outward before planting. In this manner the roots will no longer be circling the inside of a pot. They will be forced to explore the soil that will provide their new home.
GOOD PLANTING BED Though planting azaleas and rhododendrons is a bit more problematic in spring than in fall, you can dramatically increase your chances of success by preparing a good bed beforehand.
Knowing how azalea roots love to creep through rich, organic soil, I dig a spot four feet in diameter and six inches deep for each plant. I remove all the soil. The top four inches goes in my wheelbarrow. The bottom two inches of clay is dumped in a hole where a pine stump rotted. To the earth in the wheelbarrow I add an equal amount of soil conditioner. I chop and stir with a hoe to thoroughly mix the two. Upon dumping the mixture back in the hole, I find that I’ve created a slight mound, a perfect azalea or rhododendron habitat.
You already know how I prepare the root ball for planting. When I finish, the plant sits in its mound, a few inches above the surrounding landscape. I cover the mound with mulch and soak the spot thoroughly. If the weather is dry I’ll return a week later to soak it again.
Garden centers are happy to offer guarantees as a courtesy but they hate seeing poor, bedraggled plants coming back through their doors if it could have been avoided. I can’t guarantee that EVERY plant that Dave installs will thrive if he follows my method. I CAN guarantee that your azaleas will be more likely to thrive if you follow the steps I’ve outlined. | 3,593 | 1,838 | 0.000558 |
warc | 201704 | In Cold Blood
Perhaps one of the most difficult types of filmmaking must be the film adaptation based on an already successful and well-known text. Such an adaptation, because of a book’s recognition, opens itself up to countless comparisons and criticisms. However, the art of film adaptation lies less in fidelity to the original text and more in the creation of a unique perspective on that text. In few movies is the success of this particular art more evident than in Richard Brooks’s adaptation of Truman Capote’s In Cold Blood (1965). Although the film captures much of the intention of Capote’s original bestseller, it also takes a number of significant departures that have made Brooks’s In Cold Blood a milestone of popular culture and Kansas history, solidifying Kansas’s place as a significant cinematic symbol and remembered landscape.
Some thirty-four years since the film’s release in December 1967, In Cold Blood remains fresh, unsettling, and audacious. The terror Brooks captures through both his extended focus on criminal psychology and the murder scene in the actual Clutter home is still amply troubling; few films today can capture the horrendous nature of violence without actually portraying most of it on screen. In Cold Blood remains significant as well because it speaks strongly about living in a chaotic, fractured, postmodern world where we can, like the Clutters, become victims of circumstance and chance at any moment and in any place, even in Kansas. Amore enduring quality of the film, however, is its social criticism with respect to class disparity and racial difference. In the social upheaval of the late sixties, Brooks challenges us, surely more than Arthur Penn’s romanticized Bonnie and Clyde (1967), to think about how real economic and racial inequality can create criminal behavior capable of destroying peaceable, middle-class lives like those of the Clutters.
Brooks’s insistence on filming in black-and-white, often on location in Kansas, and Quincy Jones’s original music stand out as In Cold Blood’s most striking and enduring aesthetic attributes. The film—which used the Clutter home, the actual courtroom, seven of the twelve original jurors, the same hangman, and Nancy Clutter’s horse—seems infused with a blending of fact and fiction, just as did Capote’s “nonfiction novel.” Jones’s music is likewise powerful, strongly emphasizing the film’s linear fragmentation and its characters’ discordant lives. Jones provides a memorable, menacing jazz with horn shrieks, bass moans, and arrhythmic percussion. Such jazz plays an especially important role in the initial scenes, establishing the criminal, socially marginal personalities of Perry Smith and Dick Hickock. Smith, played exceptionally by Robert Blake, comes across as a detached, unbalanced, homosexual drifter, an unsteady and anxious half-Indian outsider. Hickock, played by Scott Wilson, is a degenerate, sexually charged hipster from a poor Kansas family, not unlike Dorothy’s family in The Wizard of Oz. Jones’s music has such a strong presence throughout the film that silence itself becomes significant, particularly in the Clutter murder scene and in the film’s final moments during Smith’s hanging; respectively, blowing wind and a heartbeat punctuate the solemnity of both moments as violations of human life, even of killers’ lives forged, as the film suggests, in conditions of social and racial inequality.
The film’s setting, too, is important for creating of Kansas a symbolic landscape relevant to the turmoil of the late sixties. In this stark place, society’s insolvent and colored outsiders clash with the heartland’s upstanding, hard-working citizens: “Welcome back to Kansas, buddy, the heart of America,” Dick tells Perry at the film’s onset, “the land of wheat, corn, Bibles, and [belch] natural gas.” Brooks plays off Kansas history in the popular imagination, the land of John Brown and Carrie Nation, a land of racial conflict and religious fervor. Kansas also is a land of haves and have-nots, as Dick makes clear: “Doctors and lawyers, what do they care? Ever see a millionaire fry in the electric chair? Hell no. There’s two kind of laws, honey, one for the rich and one for the poor.” Even in Kansas, the film suggests, there is social disparity and its accompanying problems. A violation of Kansas becomes akin to a violation of home—Dorothy’s, our nation’s, and, literally, the Clutters’—a theme consistent with Capote’s book. It is also not surprising that the criminals hide out in the wild lands of Mexico and are apprehended in Las Vegas, as such illicit places, conceptually outside the law, contrast heavily with the myth of Kansas as homeland—there’s no place like it—in our cinematic and literary history.
Another departure the film takes from the text, the addition of the reporter, perhaps sheds the most light on the nature of both Capote’s and Brooks’s works and the lasting significance of each for Kansas and American history. When asked of his interest in the crime, the reporter responds: “A violent, unknown force destroys a decent, ordinary family. No clues. No logic. Makes us all feel frightened, vulnerable.” Brooks’s own words during filming to William Cotter Murray of the New York Times further defines the film as “Greek tragedy, American style . . . . If I thought this movie didn’t have relevance to a general social problem, I wouldn’t be making it.”8 In these murders, as both Brooks and Capote define them, we are all held partly responsible. In choosing not to confront the killers and their crime, we turn our backs on the social problems of racial difference and class disparity that gave rise to Smith and Hickock. For the late 1960s, and perhaps still now, Brooks serves up a biting social critique of postmodern American life. By the end of the film, as with Capote’s bestseller, trouble in Kansas means trouble everywhere. Surely, if the heart ails, there can be no health in our nation’s body.
Philip Heldrich
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warc | 201704 | By Ovetta Wiggins
Washington Post Staff Writer Tuesday, October 26, 2010; 12:13 AM
Prince George's County Council members are planning to vote on several controversial bills just before many of the members leave office in December because of term limits.
The measures would offer tax breaks to developers, implement new stormwater management regulations, make bond financing contingent on minority business participation and give pay raises to nonunionized employees.
The council is to consider the bills during a marathon session Tuesday.
"This is probably the longest physical agenda that I've seen," said Chairman Thomas E. Dernoga (D-Laurel), who is leaving.
Two other bills that have created a stir would alter zoning on properties in Fort Washington and Bowie.
Council member Tony Knotts (D-Temple Hills) has introduced legislation that would allow developer William Chesley of the Fort Washington Acres Partnership to build up to 360 townhouses or condominiums and commercial buildings on vacant land zoned for 72 single-family homes.
"He basically wants a blank check to sell what he can sell without [officials and residents] knowing what that is," William Cavitt, vice president of the Indian Head Highway Area Action Council, said of Chesley.
Knotts, who is leaving office, did not return calls or an e-mail seeking comment.
Chesley has said he wants to build retail and office space that would draw doctors from Fort Washington Medical Center as customers. If the property is rezoned, Chesley said he will give four acres to the medical center for expansion.
"We thought it was a good idea to work with the hospital to expand and increase the density to pay for roads there," Cavitt said. "If the hospital doesn't come forward and say we need this thing . . . then I'll say, 'Fine, thank you all for your time.'"
In Bowie, developer Ken Michael and the Lansdowne Development Group want to build a residential development known as Karington.
The current plan calls for 170 single-family homes, 275 townhouses, and 850 apartments and condominiums. The legislation would allow the developer to replace the apartments with townhouses, but the developer said it is unclear how many townhouses would be built.
Council member Ingrid Turner (D-Bowie), who introduced the legislation, said the bill has the support of the Karington Advisory Committee. Still, several residents said they think the measure was written to benefit a specific developer.
Turner, who is running for reelection, said the legislation does not increase the density of the project and could reduce the number of residential units.
The council will consider three bills that deal with special taxing districts and the issuance of county bonds totaling $37.6 million. County officials say creating special taxing districts and using tax increment funds, known as TIFs, are a way to stimulate development.
Council member Samuel H. Dean (D-Mitchellville), who introduced a bill to pay for the county to finance the construction and acquisition of public infrastructure at Kingdom Square in Capitol Heights, said he wants to revitalize the county's older communities.
The Sanctuary at Kingdom Square has submitted plans to build a mixed-use development on its property on Central Avenue that would consist of residential units, commercial space, parking and a hotel.
"One of the things that we are trying to do is ensure the development in the established communities, and the Sanctuary falls in that area," said Dean, who is also leaving the council.
Dean has introduced a measure that would require developers who seek bond financing to provide a minority business 5 percent in equity of the total amount of the TIFs it receives.
Petrie-Ross Ventures, the developer of the Woodmore Towne Centre at Glenarden, has asked the county to issue $17 million in bonds for infrastructure costs at the 245-acre site.
Woodmore Towne Centre, which held its grand opening Friday, will eventually consist of 800,000 square feet of retail space, 1 million square feet of office space, two hotels and 1,100 residential units. The bill was introduced by council member Andrea Harrison (D-Springdale), who declined to comment before Tuesday's session. She is running for reelection.
Under a bill submitted by Marilynn M. Bland (D-Clinton), the council will also decide whether the county should finance the construction and acquisition of public infrastructure at Brandywine Crossing, a 480,000-square-foot shopping center off Route 301.
Bland, who also leaves the board in December, did not return phone calls or an e-mail seeking comment.
The building community is in an uproar over a bill introduced by Dernoga that would put Prince George's stormwater management regulations on par with Montgomery County's. Builders say the legislation could halt development.
Dernoga said it has the support of municipal leaders. "It's good enough for Montgomery County, but not good enough for Prince George's?" he asked. The developers "live in Montgomery County, but they want less quality development in Prince George's."
The council, which last week left intact a measure that would allow council members' pay to increase late next year, will also take up a bill that would raise nonunionized employees' pay by 2 percent starting in January. That bill was proposed by County Executive Jack B. Johnson (D), who leaves office in December. If approved, it would cost the county about $2.4 million a year at a time when county employees and teachers have endured layoffs and furloughs and revenue is flat.
Staff writer Miranda S. Spivack contributed to this report. | 5,655 | 2,600 | 0.000388 |
warc | 201704 | People repair and replace many things throughout their lives including shoes, clothing, automobile tires, household appliances and the like and sometimes even hips, knees, lungs, and kidneys. Generally, the longer the useful life, the greater the reliability, and the more something is out of sight, the less prepared people become when major renovation or replacement becomes necessary.
This is precisely the case of the massive US buried water piping infrastructure. In this sense it is a victim of its reliability and durability. Many of the systems have exceeded their expected useful life by several decades and a few by more than a century. Numerous systems throughout the US are now nearing or have already reached their expected useful life and are in dire need of replacement or extensive repair.
The continuing postponement and failure to carry out the renovation or replacement will have extremely serious, perhaps even disastrous consequences. One has only to look at the water systems in lesser developed countries that have failed to keep up with repair and replacement to obtain a preview of the hardship, inconvenience, illness, and monetary and social costs associated with failing to replace and renovate this essential infrastructure in a timely manner. The following list cites the most prominent examples.
The Costs of Ignoring Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs
Social Costs Economic Costs Waterborne disease rates 1 rise due to poor drinking water quality Worker and student productivity decline Diseases of sanitary significance increase from decreased sanitation in hospitals, restaurants, food processors, work environment, and households New business and industry stagnate due to insufficient water quantity or quality Low water pressure and intermittent water service become more common inconveniences Widespread costs are encountered due to not having water when and where it is needed Fire protection capability declines Insurance rates rise due to a decline in fire protection capability Useful lives of water-using appliances decline Expenses associated with lost and unaccounted for water rise Massive water leaks and associated repairs cause traffic and disruptions and driver and pedestrian risks (see embedded video example from Maryland, Dec., 23, 2008) Expenses associated with massive water leaks and associated property damage rise Consumers must disinfect and store water at the household level Increase in monthly water utility fees due to escalating breaks in buried water lines
An ample available supply of clean water is indeed the lifeblood of our society. As costly as replacement and renovation of the buried water pipeline infrastructure will be, it will be far more expensive in numerous ways for US cities, towns, and communities to ignore this issue and continue to postpone the needed upkeep of possibly their most valuable asset.
Fred Reiff, P.E., is retired from the Pan American Health Organization, and lives in the Reno, Nevada area. 1Includes norovirus, cholera, typhoid fever, bacillary dysentery, giardiasis, infectious hepatitis, cryptosporidiosis, rotovirus | 3,129 | 1,525 | 0.000657 |
warc | 201704 | There's more to running a fantastic practice than being a fantastic adviser. Financial planner and small business owner Rob Goudie offers four crucial tips to keeping your practice in the black:
As a small-business owner who has advised other small-business owners over the last 15 years, I've seen many issues that have pushed businesses to the brink of bankruptcy. Below is my list of four critically important areas that we need to get right to avoid that happening.
Of course, this list could be expanded out to five, 10 or 20 quite easily, but get these right and you will have the opportunity to consider the others down the track.
Cash flow:
I've no doubt you’re great at what you do, but if you’re not churning out the invoices and making sure you get paid on time, all your hard work can be done in vain. Debtors have the potential to break your business. Without constant cash flow to cover overheads and pay your way, unpaid work will eventually be your business’s undoing.
Have you ever hired a tradesman to do a job – a great person, reliable, trustworthy and fantastic at what they do – but who takes between three months and two years to finally send you an invoice for payment? I've seen this happen many times, including with some of my clients. A mechanic client of mine was so slow with sending out the invoices while all his other bills kept rolling in. My advice to him was to make sure there was an invoice on the passenger seat of every car at the completion of each job. I believe prompt invoicing is a sign of efficiency and also an expectation – that we've completed a job efficiently and on time and that we now need to be paid for it.
Delegation:
As businesses grow the need to delegate becomes very important. But it’s essential not to lose sight of the jobs in your business that can dictate its future.
I recently watched a very successful retail business owner lose touch with his business. Within six months his stock levels increased to $2 million and well over his average of $1 million. This put his business under immense cash-flow pressure as the stock on hand was considered seasonal specific and he was commencing his slowest part of the retail year – winter. These errors can arise quickly and send businesses broke.
Delegating is an important skill to learn, but make sure that when you do, you’re not delegating business-critical roles.
Ignoring the most profitable aspect of a business:
As a soloist, it’s hard not to get distracted from the parts of your business that you do best. More often than not the part of your business that allowed you to break out on your own is the area that you specialise in and also the most profitable. Getting distracted from your specialised niche to focus on other fringe services or products can take away precious time and dollars from your bottom line. These days, people want to deal with and are prepared to pay top dollar for specialists in the area that they need help. Don't lose focus.
Misunderstanding finance:
Make sure you take the time to understand the finance side of your business. Do you receive monthly profit-loss and cash-flow reports so you can keep a close eye on the progress of the business?
Receiving these reports on a monthly basis allows you to keep on top of the business’s progress or lack thereof. If the reports are not reading quite as you'd like it gives you the opportunity to react quickly and make the changes to get things back on track.
If business is travelling well, receiving your reports can be an exciting time of the month. Just remember to watch your cash flow: with profitability comes tax liabilities. For self-employed people there is the quarterly “Pay as you go” liability as well as superannuation.
This blog originally appeared on flyingsolo.com.au - Australia's micro business community. | 3,904 | 1,843 | 0.000554 |
warc | 201704 | If you eat the right amount at meal times you shouldn't have any cravings. Also you have have one day off a week from dieting which actually helps you lose fat! Crazy huh. Its good that you can admit that binging is a problem, if it is a problem you struggle to tackle head on, tackle it from the side by doing other things to help your fat loss whether you binge or you dont...
Here are some tips that will speed up your metabolism (and help you burn fat whether your binging or not).. (1) Start your day with a healthy breakfast You hear everyone say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, this is true! Eating breakfast will kick start your metabolism for the day and it will also stop you from snacking half way through the morning. The important thing here is the time of breakfast, your level of cortisol (the hormone that helps you use calories to build muscle) is sky high in the morning just after you wake up, it won’t be any higher than this at any point in the day so eating breakfast, especially eating breakfast early will turn those calories into muscle as fast as possible. I recommend having breakfast within 30 minutes of waking and the 2 breakfast I cycle between are a 30g protein shake when I have to be out the house early and eggs (scrambled or poached) organic sausages and turkey bacon. Also note to optimize fat loss for the day you need at 30g+ of protein for breakfast. (30g is the equivalent to 2 hard boiled eggs) (2) Exercise Aerobic exercise revs up your metabolism for as long as an hour after you stop. I always recommend short burst exercise in the morning if possible, imagine your belly is an oven, by completing a short aerobic exercise routine in the morning e.g. training at the gym or running you turn the oven on so any food that goes in gets burned off a lot faster than if the oven was turned off. Ideally short high intensity exercise gives a bigger increase of your resting metabolic rate compared to medium or low intensity exercise. I recommend going for a walk and add in sprints of 10 seconds to every 20 – 30 seconds of walking or if you would rather stay inside and exercise, a basic cardio circuit of squats, sit ups, skipping etc. will really get your metabolism going. (3) Build Muscle The basic formula is more muscle = higher metabolic rate. This is why a man’s resting metabolic rate is naturally higher than a woman’s, because men have more muscle. Ladies shouldn’t worry about bulking up by adding resistance/weight training to their exercise regime, all that will happen is your wobbly bits will become more firm and toned. Remember every pound of muscle uses about 6 calories a day to sustain itself while a pound of fat only uses 2 calories. (4) Add Ice To Your Drinks In order to process calories your body needs water, I aim to drink between 2 – 3 litres of water a day to keep me hydrated, even mild dehydration slows down your metabolism. In addition to this drinking ice cold beverages prompt the body to burn more calories during digestion. Just by drinking 5 glasses of water on the rocks can use up an extra 10 calories per day without any form of dieting or exercise. Every little helps. (5) 4 Hour Eating Eating food more regularly can actually make you lose weight! Jim White, a national spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association says “The more frequently you eat, the more often your metabolism revs up. Conversely, missing a meal, or going too long between meals brings your metabolism to a crawl. Your body switches into starvation mode and your system slows down to conserve energy.” I aim to eat every 4 hours, this normal falls into every 3 – 5 hours because of work, another benefit of eating more regularly is you will be less likely to over eat at meal times or snack in between. (6) Power Up With Metabolism Boosting Foods Protein takes almost 25% more energy to digest compared to carbohydrates or fat. By eating more protein at meals your metabolism will keep sky high throughout the day which is one of the best ways to help you lose weight, there are 3 food groups that super accelerate fat loss; a complete list of these food groups can be found in my free 6 day Fat loss eCourse which you can access instantly direct to your inbox. Just Click Here Caffeine also helps speed up your metabolism by stimulating the production of adrenaline, just limit yourself to no more than two cups a day and use cream (2 tablespoons max) instead of milk. (7) Get Enough ZZZZ's In a 16-year study of sleep-deprived women published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, researchers found that those who slept seven to eight hours a night had the lowest risk for major weight gain, while women who got six hours a night were 12% more likely to pile on a significant number of pounds, and those who logged five hours or less were 32% more likely to gain weight. Sleep deprivation increases production of the chemical cortisol by approx 50% which in turn increases your body’s hunger levels and throws out the hunger hormones leptin and ghrelin which reduces your ability to tell when you are full. It also interferes with the body’s ability to metabolise carbohydrates and leads to more fat storage so try and get a few early nights if you want to keep the weight off. Hope These help Ryan
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on Sun Nov 13, 2011 3:42 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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warc | 201704 | mentioned one of numerous FDA warnings to Castle Cheese Inc., in 2012. An additional amazingly reprehended, “Your parmesan cheese products do not contain any parmesan,” “your product labels declare that the products are parmesan cheese or romano cheese, but they are in fact a mixture of trimmings of various cheeses and other ingredients.”
It may be sensible and soothing to think tags stating an item 100 % Parmesan suggest exactly that, just what the FDA found in some food products bearing that tag is far from sensible– and also, in some instances, far from food.
A suggestion to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2012 resulted in the worrying findings at Castle Cheese, as Bloomberg reported. Authorities discovered the firm
“was doctoring its 100 percent real parmesan with cut-rate substitutes and such filler as wood pulp and distributing it to some of the country’s biggest grocery chains.” That’s right: timber pulp.
Though cellulose is seemingly harmless– and also obviously, took into consideration an acceptable additive that serves as an anti-clumping broker– several parmesan vendors have been including it in unacceptable amounts. Castle’s variance from its Parmesan labeling was so grievous, business head of state, Michelle Myrter, will reportedly plead guilty this month. She encounters a $100,000 fine, along with approximately a year in prison.
Neal Schuman, who heads Arthur Schuman Inc., believes such bogus labeling has to be dealt with accordingly– and as his firm edges 33 percent of the United States market for hard Italian cheeses, he urges accuracy and also high quality are necessary. He approximates around 20 percent of such cheese production in the United States, comprising $375 million in sales, is mislabeled.
“The tipping point was grated cheese, where less than 40 percent of the product was actually a cheese product,”Schuman described. “Consumers are innocent, and they’re not getting what they bargained for. And that’s just wrong.”
To wit, Bloomberg performed tests of store-bought cheese to measure timber pulp material, employing an independent laboratory:
“Cellulose is a safe additive, and an acceptable level is 2 percent to 4 percent, according to Dean Sommer, a cheese technologist at the Center for Dairy Research in Madison, Wisconsin,”Bloomberg created. “Essential Everyday 100% Grated Parmesan Cheese, from Jewel-Osco, was 8.8 percent cellulose, while Wal-Mart Stores Inc.’s Great Value 100% Grated Parmesan Cheese registered 7.8 percent, according to test results. Whole Foods 365 brand didn’t list cellulose as an ingredient on the label, but still tested at 0.3 percent. Kraft had 3.8 percent.”
Spokespeople for Jewel-Osco, Wal-Mart, and also Whole Foods told Bloomberg they are investigating those findings, while a Kraft spokesperson said the firm “
“remain[s] committed to the quality of our products.”
Cheese, and also specifically tough cheeses like parmesan and also romano, make up a tremendously profitable company in the United States Standards for the industry emerged in the 1950s to keep product purity a priority– just like the marketplaces abroad for German draft beer or for sparkling wine– where hard strictures mean regular top quality. Castle, which filed for bankruptcy in 2014, had for some Three Decade marketed as Parmesan
“what was in fact a mixture of imitation cheese and trimmings of Swiss, white cheddar, Havarti, and mozzarella.”
Jim Umhoefer, executive director of the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association, is confident the investigation by the FDA will certainly motivate required adjustments in the industry.
As he told Bloomberg:
“The industry wants to be known for a wholesome, safe, honest product — it’s what’s kept the industry growing for 100 years. The wholesomeness of dairy products is a treasured part of our story.”
As well as timber pulp should not have a sustaining role.
Source: theantimedia.org | 4,108 | 2,006 | 0.000525 |
warc | 201704 | Werner Arber Born 3rd June, 1929 (Granichen, Switzerland)
Werner Arber is a Swiss microbiologist and geneticist who together with Daisy Dussoix helped discover and understand the mechanism of restriction enzymes, laying the foundation for their adoption as molecular scissors. These enzymes today are a fundamental tool for many different types of biotechnology, including DNA sequencing and gene cloning.
Family Werner Arber grew up in a Protestant family who lived in Granichen, a village in the German-speaking part of Switzerland half way between Bern and Zurich. Both his parents and grandparents were farmers and as a boy he worked in the fields. In 1966 he married Antonia Arber and had two daughters, Silvia and Caroline, born respectively in 1968 and 1974. Education Up to the age of 16 Arber attended public schools and then went to the Kantonsschule Aarau. Some of his favourite subjects at school were science and religious education and at one point he considered becoming a teacher. In 1949 he began studying for a diploma in natural sciences at the Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich. While there he soon became involved in experiments to isolate and characterise the radioactive isotope of chlorine. After completing his diploma Arber was engaged as an assistant to Eduard Kellenberger based in the Biophysics Laboratory at the University of Geneva in 1953. Hired to assist in Kellenberg's electron microscopic investigation of bacterial viruses (bacteriophages), the position allowed Arber to pursue doctoral research. This was focused on the physiology and genetics of bacteriophages. His interest in the field was sparked in part by a visit to the laboratory by Jean Weigle and the work of Larry Morse and Esther and Joshua Lederberg who were working on gene transfer from one strain of the lambda bacteriophage to another. In 1958 Werner was awarded a doctorate. His thesis centred on the deficiencies of a mutant strain of bacteriophage lambda. Career Between 1958 and 1960 Arber worked as a research associate in the laboratory of Joe Bertani at the University of Southern California investigating the genetics of P1, a bacteriophage of Escherichia coli. Following this, in early 1960, he spent some time in the laboratories of Gunther Stent in Berkeley, Joshua Lederberg in Stanford and Salvador Luria at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge. During this time he became fascinated by research being carried out to understand how bacteria restricted and modified DNA to prevent their destruction by virus parasites. Between 1965 and 1970 Arber worked with Kellenberg at the University of Geneva on a project funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation. The research aimed to understand the nature of radiation damage to genetic material and its repair mechanism. In 1965 Arber was appointed professor of molecular genetics at Geneva University. Seven years later, in 1972, he moved to the department of the University of Basel. This followed a sabbatical year as a visiting professor in the Department of Molecular Biology at the University of California in Berkeley. Achievements Arber and his doctoral student Daisy Dussoix were the first to outline the mechanism that bacteria use to protect themselves against invading viruses. They proposed that recipient bacteria produce two types of enzymes in defence. The first one cuts up the DNA of the virus to restrict its growth. The second helps it modify its own DNA to resist it being cleaved and destroyed by its restriction enzyme. These enzymes were later isolated and purified by Hamilton Smith and Kent Wilcox and tested for cutting DNA by Daniel Nathans. Arber was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine together with Smith and Kent in 1978 for their contribution to the discovery and use of restriction enzymes. By this time it was already apparent that such enzymes were important laboratory tools for cutting and pasting DNA, a fundamental process for identifying and characterising genes (DNA sequencing), and for recombining or joining DNA molecules from different organisms (recombinant DNA). Werner Arber: timeline of key events
Date Event People Places June 3, 1929 Werner Arber was born in Granichen, Switzerland Arber University of Geneva 1962 Concept of restriction and modification enzymes born Arber, Dussoix University of Geneva 1965 Werner Arber predicts restriction enzymes could be used as a labortory tool to cleave DNA Arber University of Geneva October 1978 Nobel Prize for discovery and understanding of restriction enzymes Arber, Nathans, Smith Johns Hopkins University, University of Geneva
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warc | 201704 | Britain in 2005 changed the law protecting anonymous sperm donors and allowed children to learn the identity of donor fathers - one reason, fertility experts say, there are fewer donors now.
"The only countries that seem to have enough sperm are those that pay - like the U.S. and Spain - or the countries that retain anonymity," said Allan Pacey, a member of the British Fertility Society that warned of the shortage in the British Medical Journal.
"In the countries that have removed anonymity ... there seems to be a problem," he said.
In 1991, Britain logged 503 sperm donors, according to figures from the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority. In 2000, there were 325, and in 2006 - the year after the law was changed - the number dropped to 307.
Experts say 500 donors a year are needed to cope with the number of couples needing donor insemination in Britain.
Dutch authorities have also put out calls to encourage sperm donors after scrapping anonymity for donors in 2004.
"There is a shortage of sperm donors. This is because of the new laws that make the anonymous donation of sperm impossible," the University of Amsterdam's Fertility Clinic of the Academic Medical Center said on its Web site.
Usage limits could also affect availability.
In Britain, only 10 babies can result from one donor - a limit some have called arbitrary. The Dutch allow one donor to supply sperm to 25 women.
The United States does not cap sperm donations at all, according to Eleanor Nicoll, spokeswoman for the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. However, the group suggests that a single donor be limited to no more than 25 births in a population of 800,000 to avoid having siblings from the same sperm donor having children together.
In France, sperm donation is anonymous and the government covers donors' expenses but the country still faces a sperm shortage. France registered 248 sperm donors in 2006, according to the country's Agency of Biomedicine - a level an official there said was not enough to supply demand.
Unlike Britain, U.S. donors have the option of remaining anonymous, said Dr. Robert Visscher, former executive director of the American Society of Reproductive Medicine.
"I don't think we are having a problem with adequate numbers of donors at this time, primarily because we don't have that regulation," he said.
Mark Jackson, 40, decided to donate in 2005, even after Britain's government amended the donor law.
"To worry that someone might come and see you, that something might happen? That's a long way in the future," said Jackson. "I thought maybe I (could) do something to make a difference."
Olivia Montuschi, co-founder of the Donor Conception Network, said changing the confidentiality law was important for the donors' children but shouldn't prevent men from being willing to help.
"What is needed is someone who has the maturity to understand the importance of what they're doing for the future, and the impact that might have on anyone who's conceived," said Montuschi, whose children were conceived using donor sperm. "We are not talking about a fatherhood role."
Although sperm donations from other countries are allowed in Britain, clinics cannot pay donors and donations from abroad are not enough to cope with the shortage, said Pacey, who runs a fertility clinic in Sheffield, 165 kilometers (265 miles) from London.
"Once upon a time ... we had hundreds and hundreds of people phoning up every year," he said. "Now, 20 a year? Not in any great numbers."
---
(This version CORRECTS group's name to American Society for Reproductive Medicine.)
© 2008 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Learn more about our Privacy Policy. | 3,801 | 1,875 | 0.00054 |
warc | 201704 | Most people don’t think of chocolate as a low-calorie snack, but it can be! You can enjoy chocolate in a healthy way by choosing pre-packaged single-serving snack items, which help to control portions and keep calories low. Opt for dark chocolate whenever possible, since it is lower in sugar-based calories. You can quickly whip up your own low-calorie chocolate snacks at home or add powdered cocoa to foods and beverages, as well.
Steps 1Choosing Low-Calorie Chocolate Treats 1 Opt for dark chocolate in moderation.Dark chocolate contains antioxidants, flavanols, vitamins and nutrients that are beneficial to your health. Other chocolate varieties do not offer similar health benefits. [1]Moderation is still important, so limit yourself to one or two ounces of dark chocolate at a time. [2]Choose organic dark chocolate that is at least 70% cacao, which will contain the least amount of sugar-based calories per serving. [3] Organic dark chocolate with 70% cacao or higher lacks the unhealthy additives included in other kinds of chocolate. [4]It also contains a type of saturated fat that does not raise cholesterol levels. A 3.5 ounce (100g) bar of dark chocolate with 70-85% cocoa contains about 539 calories. A milk chocolate bar of the same size contains about 540 calories. However, milk chocolate has a lot more sugar. [5] Organic dark chocolate with 70% cacao or higher lacks the unhealthy additives included in other kinds of chocolate. 2 Buy pre-packaged single serving chocolate snacks and baked goods.Pre-packaged servings can help you control the amount of calories you take in. Many snack companies now offer their products packaged this way for their health-conscious customers. Each serving is typically limited to a certain amount of calories, usually between 100 and 200, making it easy for you to grab a low-calorie chocolate snack on the go. Look for chocolate snack products that advertise as being low-fat and low-calorie. Also look for statements like, “Only 100 calories in each single serving bag.” Popular chocolate snacks that tend to be packaged this way are cookies, cereal bars, bite-sized candies and mini muffins. 3 Try low-fat and low-calorie frozen chocolate treats.Many frozen chocolate treats, such as ice cream, are relatively high in calories and do not make great snack choices. However, skip the ice cream and give low-fat chocolate sorbet a try. Calories per serving vary from brand to brand, with some of them offering as little as 66 calories per ¼ cup of sorbet. [6] 4 Eat sugar-free and/or fat-free chocolate pudding cups.Chocolate pudding is a great way to enjoy a rich chocolate flavor without ingesting loads of calories. This calorie-conscious pudding is premade and sold in single-serving cups that come packaged together (usually as a six pack). The pudding is typically low in calories (usually about 90 calories) which most companies advertise visibly on the front of the packaging. [9] Enjoy a chocolate pudding cup after dinner or toss one into your lunch as a low-calorie snack. If you want something a little more decadent but still relatively low-calorie, look for premade single servings of low-fat chocolate mousse. You’ll likely find them right next to the pudding cups in the dairy section of your grocery store. 2Adding Chocolate to Low-Calorie Foods 1 Drizzle melted chocolate over popcorn.Air-popped popcorn is a great snack because the calories per serving are so low. It is very filling and you can eat a good amount without ingesting tons of calories. Melt about one half of a standard size chocolate bar and drizzle it over 1 ½ cups of low-fat popcorn. Stir or toss the popcorn so that the chocolate gets distributed evenly. [10] Use a dark chocolate bar to get the most health benefits. Popcorn is also a healthy provider of soluble fiber. 2 Dip fruit in melted chocolate.Fruit is a healthy snack choice because it is low-calorie, low-fat and high in fiber. It's also relatively easy to portion control. Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips or half a chocolate bar in a microwave-safe bowl. Dip strawberries, bananas, mango slices, orange segments and any other fruits you like into it. [11]You can use chocolate syrup instead of melted chocolate, if you prefer. 3 Make your own low-calorie trail mix.Place almonds, dried fruit, air-popped popcorn and a handful of dark chocolate chips into a large zip-lock bag. Seal the bag and shake it vigorously to combine the ingredients. Unseal the bag and your snack is ready to enjoy. Fiber-filled popcorn is very filling and the addition of nuts and dried fruits provide additional health benefits. [14] The dark chocolate will enhance the flavor without adding lots of calories, and provides health benefits of its own. Pack a snack-sized bag of your mix into your lunch for a low-calorie chocolatey treat. 3Using Cocoa Powder 1 Mix up a cup of hot cocoa.Heat up a mug of water or skim milk and add a spoonful of powdered cocoa. Stir it well and enjoy. Using water is the lowest calorie option, but skim milk will only add about 90 calories to the beverage, while contributing healthy protein, calcium and vitamin D. [15]Powdered cocoa is low in calories and the hot liquid makes it a very satisfying snack. Baking cocoa comes in an easy-to-use powdered form and you can find it on the baking aisle of any grocery store. When you’re craving a chocolate snack, cocoa powder is a great choice because it’s lower in sugar and fat than regular chocolate. 2 Put cocoa powder in your coffee.Make a delicious low-calorie mocha coffee beverage by adding a spoonful of cocoa to a mug of freshly brewed coffee. Stir well and enjoy your hot beverage. For best results, use a brand of powdered cocoa that is organic. [16] Look for brands that have not undergone Dutch processing, which strips a lot of the health benefits out of the cocoa powder. Most cocoa powders will list information about Dutch processing right on the packaging. [17] 3 Stir cocoa powder into a bowl of oatmeal.Prepare a bowl of oatmeal as you normally would. Add two teaspoons of cocoa powder and one teaspoon of brown sugar. Stir vigorously and taste it. Adjust the flavor, if necessary, by adding a little more chocolate or brown sugar, then stir and enjoy. [18] The oatmeal provides plenty of fiber and is filling, making it a great snack. The warmth of the food will also help you feel full and oatmeal itself is very low in calories. [19] 4 Add cocoa powder to low-calorie, fat-free or skim milk.Chocolate milk is a quick and easy snack that will provide a large dose of protein and satisfying chocolate taste. Milk itself is thick and filling. Add a teaspoon of cocoa powder to an 8 ounce glass of milk, stir vigorously and taste it. Adjust the flavor as necessary and enjoy your beverage. [20] If you don’t eat or drink dairy products, use soy milk instead. Some soy milk brands sell pre-made chocolate milk, so look for that if you prefer to avoid mixing it up yourself. Look for a low-fat or light variety. [21] 4Savoring Chocolate Snacks 1 Inhale the aroma.Getting your other senses involved can help you truly savor the taste of chocolate. Bring a small piece of chocolate up to your nose. Close your eyes and inhale the scent deeply. Try to stay present in the moment and focus all of your attention on the aroma. Breathe in the scent a few more times. [22] 2 Take a small bite.Use your teeth to break off a small piece of the chocolate. Break it apart in your mouth and hold the pieces on your tongue. Raise your tongue so that it’s touching the roof of your mouth. Allow the chocolate to melt while you hold it there. [23] 3 Evaluate the taste.As the chocolate melts, the taste buds on your tongue will start registering the flavors. Try to think of words that describe what you’re tasting. For example: sweet, salty, acidic, bitter. Take a slow and deep breath and try to describe the scent and the taste together. [24] 4 Swallow the chocolate.After it goes down, take a deep breath with your mouth open. Then close your mouth and taste any lingering flavors. Think about how to describe this flavor. Reflect on the experience as a whole. Think about whether or not you enjoyed the chocolate. If you did enjoy it, can you describe how much? [25] Community Q&A Sources and Citations ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/healthy-chocolate/faq-20058044 ↑ http://www.med.umich.edu/umim/food-pyramid/dark_chocolate.html ↑ http://www.drweil.com/diet-nutrition/nutrition/is-cocoa-as-healthy-as-dark-chocolate/ ↑ http://greatist.com/health/15-guilt-free-ways-indulge-chocolate ↑ http://www.organicmedic.com/2208/dark-chocolate-vs-milk-chocolate-which-is-better-for-your-health/ ↑ http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20332312,00.html ↑ http://www.popsicle.com/product/category/107675/fudgsicle ↑ http://greatist.com/health/15-guilt-free-ways-indulge-chocolate ↑ http://greatist.com/health/15-guilt-free-ways-indulge-chocolate ↑ http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/nutrition_articles.asp?id=1484&page=3 ↑ http://greatist.com/health/15-guilt-free-ways-indulge-chocolate ↑ http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/nutrition_articles.asp?id=1484&page=3 ↑ http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20332312,00.html ↑ http://www.self.com/story/low-calorie-snacks-that-crush-cravings ↑ http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/nutrition_articles.asp?id=1484 ↑ http://www.med.umich.edu/umim/food-pyramid/dark_chocolate.html ↑ http://www.drweil.com/diet-nutrition/nutrition/is-cocoa-as-healthy-as-dark-chocolate/ ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/healthy-chocolate/faq-20058044 ↑ http://greatist.com/health/15-guilt-free-ways-indulge-chocolate ↑ http://greatist.com/health/15-guilt-free-ways-indulge-chocolate ↑ http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/nutrition_articles.asp?id=1484 ↑ http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/how_to_eat_chocolate ↑ http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/how_to_eat_chocolate ↑ http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/how_to_eat_chocolate ↑ http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/how_to_eat_chocolate | 10,250 | 3,938 | 0.000259 |
warc | 201704 | Business
- Written by Will Dick on Friday, July 11, 2008 12:01 - 2 Comments Open Source Political Party to Run Candidates Bound to Consituent e-Votes
FreeGovernment.org, launched on July 4, is one of a growing number of online, direct democracy communities that allow users to vote on bills, draft their own legislation, and engage in debate. While these communities present an opportunity to make government more accessible and responsive to citizens, they have failed to earn any influence over politicians.
To change that, Free Government plans on electing the politicians. The community, which is also a political party, is looking for candidates to run in the 2008 US Congressional election. If elected, these politicians will be contractually obligated to vote according to the results of an online poll of constituents (for their vote to count, users will have to first be confirmed as registered voters).
The idea of direct democracy itself is fascinating and becoming increasingly possible. But proponents of it normally talk about the need for us to change the system of government. Instead, Free Government is engaging with the old system and building their new system on top of it. Last week I posted about how the big tech companies’ new patent alliance is a work-around for ineffectual IP laws (that our failing government has been unable to update). Similarly, government’s inaction in the direct democracy arena could be corrected by Free Government’s simple work-around.
The plan, though, is not pure direct democracy. Those who prefer not to make their own voting decisions can delegate their votes to advisors. These advisors then, become sort of like elected representatives. But there are a few important differences:
They are never running for election, making their decisions less susceptible to variations in the political cycle. Their power is never “locked in.” If they make a bad or corrupt decision, constituents can immediately and retroactively take their power away. Those who do not win are still engaged in the process. When a candidate loses an election, we shut this (often) highly qualified person out of government, rather than give them an opportunity to serve their community. A corporate HR department would cringe at such a policy. Free Government’s system allows those less-popular “advisors” to continue to engage in the policy making process.
Wouldn’t it crazy/amazing if these guys actually got someone elected and we could see how it worked? I haven’t talked about the challenges of something like this, and there are many. But we are in serious need of some innovative ideas for saving our increasingly ineffective government. I think this may be the best one I’ve seen yet.
I’d love to know what everyone else thinks.
2 Comments Business
- Oct 5, 2010 12:00 - 0 Comments More In Business Facebook, Facebook, Facebook
Survey: How are you using Facebook, Twitter, smart phones, and other technology platforms?
Will Facebook be your CRM provider?
Wiki Banking
The importance of being competent
Entertainment
- Aug 3, 2010 13:14 - 2 Comments More In Entertainment Lessons in collaboration from B.B. King’s
CL!CK – LEGO’s fun social product development platform
Peer Pressure 2.0: Farmville
Online gaming more than just fun
The NFL – The most protective league, attempting to control the uncontrollable
Society
- Aug 6, 2010 8:19 - 4 Comments More In Society Balance: customer receptivity vs. customer revulsion
The Net Gen: Too plugged-in for parenting?
Are you addicted to social media?
The privacy discussion we need to have
“The Data-Driven Life”: Who’s not interested in discovery? | 3,752 | 1,901 | 0.000544 |
warc | 201704 | Sexually transmitted disease Sexually transmitted diseases ( STD), also referred to as sexually transmitted infections ( STI) and venereal diseases ( VD), are illnesses that have a significant probability of transmission between humans by means of sexual behavior, including vaginal intercourse, anal sex and oral sex. Some STIs can also be contracted by using IV drug needles after their use by an infected person, as well as through childbirth or breastfeeding.
Sexually transmitted infections have been well known for hundreds of years, and venereology is the branch of medicine that studies these diseases. While in the past, these illnesses have mostly been referred to as STDs or VD, in recent years the term
sexually transmitted infections ( STIs) has been preferred, as it has a broader range of meaning; a person may be infected, and may potentially infect others, without having a disease. Contents 1 Classification 2 Cause 3 Pathophysiology 4 Prevention 5 Diagnosis 6 Management 7 Epidemiology 8 History 9 See Also 10 References 11 Further reading 12 External links Classification
Until the 1990s, STIs were commonly known as
venereal diseases, the word venereal being derived from the Latin word venereus, and meaning relating to sexual intercourse or desire, ultimately derived from Venus, the Roman goddess of love. [1] Social disease was a phrase used as a euphemism. Sexually transmitted infection is a broader term than sexually transmitted disease. [2] An infection is a colonization by a parasitic species, which may not cause any adverse effects. In a disease, the infection leads to impaired or abnormal function. In either case, the condition may not exhibit signs or symptoms. Increased understanding of infections like HPV, which infects most sexually active individuals but cause disease in only a few has led to increased use of the term STI. Public health officials originally introduced the term sexually transmitted infection, which clinicians are increasingly using alongside the term sexually transmitted disease in order to distinguish it from the former. [3]
STD may refer only to infections that are causing diseases, or it may be used more loosely as a synonym for STI. Most of the time, people do not know that they are infected with an STI until they are tested or start showing symptoms of disease.
Moreover, the term
sexually transmissible disease is sometimes used since it is less restrictive in consideration of other factors or means of transmission. For instance, meningitis is transmissible by means of sexual contact but is not labeled as an STI because sexual contact is not the primary vector for the pathogens that cause meningitis. This discrepancy is addressed by the probability of infection by means other than sexual contact. In general, an STI is an infection that has a negligible probability of transmission by means other than sexual contact, but has a realistic means of transmission by sexual contact (more sophisticated means—blood transfusion, sharing of hypodermic needles—are not taken into account). Thus, one may presume that, if a person is infected with an STI, e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, it was transmitted to him/her by means of sexual contact.
The diseases on this list are most commonly transmitted solely by sexual activity. Many infectious diseases, including the common cold, influenza, pneumonia, and most others that are transmitted person-to-person can also be transmitted during sexual contact, if one person is infected, due to the close contact involved. However, even though these diseases may be transmitted during sex, they are not considered STIs.
Cause Transmission
Risk per unprotected sexual act with an infected person Known risks Possible Performing oral sex on a man Performing oral sex on a woman Receiving oral sex—man Receiving oral sex—woman Vaginal sex—man Vaginal sex—woman Anal sex—insertive Anal sex—receptive Anilingus Bacterial Chancroid ( Haemophilus ducreyi) Chlamydia ( Chlamydia trachomatis) Gonorrhea ( Neisseria gonorrhoeae), colloquially known as "the clap" Granuloma inguinale or ( Klebsiella granulomatis) Syphilis ( Treponema pallidum) Fungal Candidiasis (yeast infection) Viral Viral hepatitis (Hepatitis B virus)—saliva, venereal fluids. (Note: Hepatitis A and Hepatitis E are transmitted via the fecal-oral route; Hepatitis C is rarely sexually transmittable, [17]and the route of transmission of Hepatitis D (only if infected with B) is uncertain, but may include sexual transmission. [18] [19] [20]) Herpes simplex (Herpes simplex virus 1, 2) skin and mucosal, transmissible with or without visible blisters HIV ( Human Immunodeficiency Virus)—venereal fluids, semen, breast milk, blood HPV ( Human Papillomavirus)—skin and mucosal contact. 'High risk' types of HPV cause almost all cervical cancers, as well as some anal, penile, and vulvar cancer. Some other types of HPV cause genital warts. Molluscum contagiosum (molluscum contagiosum virus MCV)—close contact Parasites Crab louse, colloquially known as "crabs" or "pubic lice" ( Pthirus pubis) Scabies ( Sarcoptes scabiei) Protozoal Main types
Sexually transmitted infections include:
Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. In women, symptoms may include abnormal vaginal discharge, burning during urination, and bleeding in between periods, although most women do not experience any symptoms. [21]Symptoms in men include pain when urinating, and abnormal discharge from their penis. [22]If left untreated in both men and women, Chlamydia can infect the urinary tract and potentially lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID can cause serious problems during pregnancy and even has the potential to cause infertility. It can cause a woman to have a potentially deadly ectopic pregnancy, in which the born outside of the uterus. However, Chlamydia can be cured with antibiotics. The two most common forms of herpes are caused by infection with herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV-1 is acquired orally and causes cold sores. HSV-2 is acquired during sexual contact and affects the genitals. Some people are asymptomatic or have very mild symptoms. Those that do experience symptoms usually notice them 2 to 20 days after exposure which last 2 to 4 weeks. Symptoms can include small fluid-filled blisters, headaches, backaches, itching or tingling sensations in the genital or anal area, pain during urination, Flu like symptoms, swollen glands, or fever. Herpes is spread through skin contact with a person infected with the virus. The virus affects the areas where it entered the body. This can occur through kissing, vaginal intercourse, oral sex or anal sex. The virus is most infectious during times when there are visible symptoms, however those who are asymptomatic can still spread the virus through skin contact. [23]The primary attack is the most severe because the body does not have any antibodies built up. After the primary attack, one might have recurring attacks that are milder or might not even have future attacks. There is no cure for the disease but there are antiviral medications that treat its symptoms and lower the risk of transmission (Valtrex). Although HSV-1 is typically the "oral" version of the virus, and HSV-2 is typically the "genital" version of the virus, a person with HSV-1 orally CAN transmit that virus to their partner genitally. The virus, either type, will settle into a nerve bundle either at the top of the spine, producing the "oral" outbreak, or a second nerve bundle at the base of the spine, producing the genital outbreak. The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common STI in the United States. [24]There are more than 40 different strands of HPV and many do not cause any health problems. In 90% of cases the body’s immune system clears the infection naturally within 2 years. [25]Some cases may not be cleared and can lead to genital warts (bumps around the genitals that can be small or large, raised or flat, or shaped like cauliflower) or cervical cancer and other HPV related cancers. Symptoms might not show up until advanced stages. It is important for women to get pap smears in order to check for and treat cancers. There are also two vaccines available for women (Cervarix and Gardasil) that protect against the types of HPV that cause cervical cancer. HPV can be passed through genital-to-genital contact as well as during oral sex. It is important to remember that the infected partner might not have any symptoms. Gonorrhea is caused by bacterium that lives on moist mucous membranes in the urethra, vagina, rectum, mouth, throat, and eyes. The infection can spread through contact with the penis, vagina, mouth or anus. Symptoms of Gonorrhea usually appear 2 to 5 days after contact with an infected partner however, some men might not notice symptoms for up to a month. Symptoms in men include burning and pain while urinating, increased urinary frequency, discharge from the penis (white, green, or yellow in color), red or swollen urethra, swollen or tender testicles, or sore throat. Symptoms in women may include vaginal discharge, burning or itching while urinating, painful sexual intercourse, severe pain in lower abdomen (if infection spreads to fallopian tubes), or fever (if infection spreads to fallopian tubes), however many women do not show any symptoms. [26]There are some antibiotic resistant strains for Gonorrhea but most cases can be cured with antibiotics. Syphilis is an STI caused by a bacterium. If acquired, syphilis needs to be treated adequately, otherwise it can cause long-term complications and death. [27]Clinical manifestations of syphilis include the ulceration of the uro-genital tract, mouth or rectum; if left untreated the symptoms worsen. In recent years, the prevalence of syphilis has declined in Western Europe, but it has increased in Eastern Europe (former Soviet states). A high incidence of syphilis can be found in places such as Cameroon, Cambodia, Papua New Guinea. [28] Trichomoniasis is a common STI that is caused by infection with a protozoan parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. [29]Trichomoniasis affects both women and men, but symptoms are more common in women. [30]Most patients are treated with an antibiotic called metronidazole, which is very effective. [31] HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) damages the body's immune system which interferes with fighting off disease-causing agents. The virus kills CD4 cells, which are white blood cells that help fight off various infections. HIV is carried in body fluids, and is spread by sexual activity. It can also be spread by contact with infected blood, breast feeding, birth, and from mother during pregnancy. [32]When HIV is at its most advanced stage, an individual is said to have AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). [33]There are different stages of the progression of and HIV infection. The stages include primary infection, asymptomatic infection, symptomatic infection, and AIDS. In the primary infection stage, an individual will have flu like symptoms (headache, fatigue, fever, muscle aches) for about 2 weeks. In the asymptomatic stage, symptoms usually disappear, and the patient can remain asymptomatic for years. When HIV progresses to the symptomatic stage, the immune system is weakened, and has a low cell count of CD4+ T Cells. When the HIV infection becomes life-threatening, it is called AIDS. People with AIDS fall prey to opportunistic infections and die as a result. [21]When the disease was first discovered in the 1980s, those who had AIDS were not likely to live longer than a few years. There are now antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) available to treat HIV infections. There is no known cure for HIV or AIDS but the drugs help suppress the virus. By suppressing the amount of virus in the body, people can lead longer and healthier lives. Even though their virus levels may be low they can still spread the virus to others. [34] Pathophysiology
Many STIs are (more easily) transmitted through the mucous membranes of the penis, vulva, rectum, urinary tract and (less often—depending on type of infection) the mouth, throat, respiratory tract and eyes.
[35] The visible membrane covering the head of the penis is a mucous membrane, though it produces no mucus (similar to the lips of the mouth). Mucous membranes differ from skin in that they allow certain pathogens into the body. [36] The amount of contact with infective sources which causes infection varies with each pathogen but in all cases a disease may result from even light contact from fluid carriers like venereal fluids onto a mucous membrane.
This is one reason that the probability of transmitting many infections is far higher from sex than by more casual means of transmission, such as non-sexual contact—touching, hugging, shaking hands—but it is not the only reason. Although mucous membranes exist in the mouth as in the genitals, many STIs seem to be easier to transmit through oral sex than through deep kissing. According to a safe sex chart, many infections that are easily transmitted from the mouth to the genitals or from the genitals to the mouth are much harder to transmit from one mouth to another.
[37] With HIV, genital fluids happen to contain much more of the pathogen than saliva. Some infections labeled as STIs can be transmitted by direct skin contact. Herpes simplex and HPV are both examples. KSHV, on the other hand, may be transmitted by deep-kissing but also when saliva is used as a sexual lubricant.
Depending on the STI, a person may still be able to spread the infection if no signs of disease are present. For example, a person is much more likely to spread herpes infection when blisters are present than when they are absent. However, a person can spread HIV infection at any time, even if he/she has not developed symptoms of AIDS.
All sexual behaviors that involve contact with the bodily fluids of another person should be considered to contain some risk of transmission of sexually transmitted diseases. Most attention has focused on controlling HIV, which causes AIDS, but each STI presents a different situation.
As may be noted from the name, sexually transmitted diseases are
transmitted from one person to another by certain sexual activities rather than being actually caused by those sexual activities. Bacteria, fungi, protozoa or viruses are still the causative agents. It is not possible to catch any sexually transmitted disease from a sexual activity with a person who is not carrying a disease; conversely, a person who has an STI got it from contact (sexual or otherwise) with someone who had it, or his/her bodily fluids. Some STIs such as HIV can be transmitted from mother to child either during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Although the likelihood of transmitting various diseases by various sexual activities varies a great deal, in general, all sexual activities between two (or more) people should be considered as being a two-way route for the transmission of STIs, i.e., "giving" or "receiving" are both risky although receiving carries a higher risk.
Healthcare professionals suggest safer sex, such as the use of condoms, as the most reliable way of decreasing the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases during sexual activity, but safer sex should by no means be considered an absolute safeguard. The transfer of and exposure to bodily fluids, such as blood transfusions and other blood products, sharing injection needles, needle-stick injuries (when medical staff are inadvertently jabbed or pricked with needles during medical procedures), sharing tattoo needles, and childbirth are other avenues of transmission. These different means put certain groups, such as medical workers, and haemophiliacs and drug users, particularly at risk.
Recent epidemiological studies have investigated the networks that are defined by sexual relationships between individuals, and discovered that the properties of sexual networks are crucial to the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. In particular, assortative mixing between people with large numbers of sexual partners seems to be an important factor.
Prevention
Prevention is key in addressing incurable STIs, such as HIV and herpes. Sexual health clinics promote the use of condoms and provide outreach for at-risk communities.
The most effective way to prevent sexual transmission of STIs is to avoid contact of body parts or fluids which can lead to transfer with an infected partner. Not all sexual activities involve contact: cybersex, phonesex or masturbation from a distance are methods of avoiding contact. Proper use of condoms reduces contact and risk. Although a condom is effective in limiting exposure, some disease transmission may occur even with a condom.
[38]
Both partners should get tested for STIs before initiating sexual contact, or before resuming contact if a partner engaged in contact with someone else. Many infections are not detectable immediately after exposure, so enough time must be allowed between possible exposures and testing for the tests to be accurate. Certain STIs, particularly certain persistent viruses like HPV, may be impossible to detect with current medical procedures.
Many diseases that establish permanent infections can so occupy the immune system that other diseases become more easily transmitted. The innate immune system led by defensins against HIV can prevent transmission of HIV when viral counts are very low, but if busy with other viruses or overwhelmed, HIV can establish itself. Certain viral STI's also greatly increase the risk of death for HIV infected patients.
Vaccines
Vaccines are available that protect against some viral STIs, such as Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and some types of HPV. Vaccination before initiation of sexual contact is advised to assure maximal protection.
Condoms
Condoms and female condoms only provide protection when used properly as a barrier, and only to and from the area that it covers.
Uncovered areas are still susceptible to many STDs. In the case of HIV, sexual transmission routes almost always involve the penis, as HIV cannot spread through unbroken skin, thus properly shielding the insertive penis with a properly worn condom from the vagina or anus effectively stops HIV transmission. An infected fluid to broken skin borne direct transmission of HIV would not be considered "sexually transmitted", but can still theoretically occur during sexual contact, this can be avoided simply by not engaging in sexual contact when having open bleeding wounds. Other STIs, even viral infections, can be prevented with the use of latex, polyurethane or polyisoprene condoms as a barrier. Some microorganisms and viruses are small enough to pass through the pores in natural skin condoms, but are still too large to pass through latex or synthetic condoms.
Proper usage entails:
Not putting the condom on too tight at the end, and leaving 1.5 cm (3/4 inch) room at the tip for ejaculation. Putting the condom on snug can and often does lead to failure. Wearing a condom too loose can defeat the barrier. Avoiding inverting, spilling a condom once worn, whether it has ejaculate in it or not. Avoiding condoms made of substances other than latex, polyisoprene or polyurethane that do not protect against HIV. Avoiding the use of oil based lubricants (or anything with oil in it) with latex condoms, as oil can eat holes into them. Using flavored condoms for oral sex only, as the sugar in the flavoring can lead to yeast infections if used to penetrate.
Not following the first five guidelines above perpetuates the common misconception that condoms are not tested or designed properly.{{ safesubst:#invoke:Unsubst||$N=Citation needed |date=__DATE__ |$B=Template:Category handlerTemplate:Category handler
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In order to best protect oneself and the partner from STIs, the old condom and its contents should be assumed to be infectious. Therefore the old condom must be properly disposed of. A new condom should be used for each act of intercourse, as multiple usage increases the chance of breakage, defeating the effectiveness as a barrier.
Nonoxynol-9 Diagnosis
STI tests may test for a single infection, or consist of a number of individual tests for any of a wide range of STIs, including tests for syphilis, trichomonas, gonorrhea, chlamydia, herpes, hepatitis and HIV tests. No procedure tests for all infectious agents.
STI tests may be used for a number of reasons:
as a diagnostic test to determine the cause of symptoms or illness as a screening test to detect asymptomatic or presymptomatic infections as a check that prospective sexual partners are free of disease before they engage in sex without safer sex precautions (for example, when starting a long term mutually monogamous sexual relationship, in fluid bonding, or for procreation). as a check prior to or during pregnancy, to prevent harm to the baby as a check after birth, to check that the baby has not caught an STI from the mother to prevent the use of infected donated blood or organs as part of the process of contact tracing from a known infected individual as part of mass epidemiological surveillance
Not all STIs are symptomatic, and symptoms may not appear immediately after infection. In some instances a disease can be carried with no symptoms, which leaves a greater risk of passing the disease on to others. Depending on the disease, some untreated STIs can lead to infertility, chronic pain or even death.
[41] Early identification and treatment results in less chance to spread disease, and for some conditions may improve the outcomes of treatment.
There is often a window period after initial infection during which an STI test will be negative. During this period the infection may be transmissible. The duration of this period varies depending on the infection and the test.
Diagnosis may also be delayed by reluctance of the infected person to seek a medical professional. One report indicated that afflicted people turn to the Internet rather than to a medical professional for information on STIs to a higher degree than for other sexual problems.
[42] Management
An option for treating partners of patients (index cases) diagnosed with chlamydia or gonorrhea is patient-delivered partner therapy, which is the clinical practice of treating the sex partners of index cases by providing prescriptions or medications to the patient to take to his/her partner without the health care provider first examining the partner.
[43] Epidemiology
STD incidence rates remain high in most of the world, despite diagnostic and therapeutic advances that can rapidly render patients with many STDs noninfectious and cure most. In many cultures, changing sexual morals and oral contraceptive use have eliminated traditional sexual restraints, especially for women, and both physicians and patients have difficulty dealing openly and candidly with sexual issues. Additionally, development and spread of drug-resistant bacteria (e.g., penicillin-resistant gonococci) makes some STDs harder to cure. The effect of travel is most dramatically illustrated by the rapid spread of the AIDS virus (HIV-1) from Africa to Europe and the Americas in the late 1970s.
[45]
In 1996, the World Health Organization estimated that more than 1 million people were being infected daily. About 60% of these infections occur in young people <25 years of age, and of these 30% are <20 years. Between the ages of 14 and 19, STIs occur more frequently in girls than boys by a ratio of nearly 2:1; this equalizes by age 20. An estimated 340 million new cases of syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia and trichomoniasis occurred throughout the world in 1999.
[46]
Commonly reported prevalences of STIs among sexually active adolescent girls both with and without lower genital tract symptoms include chlamydia (10–25%), gonorrhea (3–18%), syphilis (0–3%), Trichomonas vaginalis (8–16%), and herpes simplex virus (2–12%).{{ safesubst:#invoke:Unsubst||$N=Citation needed |date=__DATE__ |$B=Template:Category handlerTemplate:Category handler
[ citation needed]}} Among adolescent boys with no symptoms of urethritis, isolation rates include chlamydia (9–11%) and gonorrhea (2–3%).{{ safesubst:#invoke:Unsubst||$N=Citation needed |date=__DATE__ |$B=Template:Category handlerTemplate:Category handler [}} At least one in four U.S. teenage girls has a sexually transmitted disease, citation needed] [47]a CDC study found. [48]Among girls who admitted ever having sex, the rate was 40%. [49]
AIDS is the single largest cause of mortality in present-day Sub-Saharan Africa.
[50] The majority of HIV infections are acquired through unprotected sexual relations between partners, one of whom has HIV. Approximately 1.1 million persons are living with HIV/AIDS in the United States, [51] and AIDS remains the leading cause of death among African American women between ages 25 and 34. [52] Hepatitis B is also classed as a sexually transmitted disease because it can be passed on sexually. [53] The disease is found globally, with the highest rates in Asia and Africa and lower rates in the Americas and Europe. [54] Worldwide, an estimated two billion people have been infected with the hepatitis B virus. [55] History
The first well-recorded European outbreak of what is now known as syphilis occurred in 1494 when it broke out among French troops besieging Naples.
[56] From this centre, the disease swept across Europe, killing more than five million people. [57] As Jared Diamond describes it, "[W]hen syphilis was first definitely recorded in Europe in 1495, its pustules often covered the body from the head to the knees, caused flesh to fall from people's faces, and led to death within a few months," rendering it far more fatal than it is today. Diamond concludes,"[B]y 1546, the disease had evolved into the disease with the symptoms so well known to us today." [58]
Prior to the invention of modern medicines, sexually transmitted diseases were generally incurable, and treatment was limited to treating the symptoms of the disease. The first voluntary hospital for venereal diseases was founded in 1746 at London Lock Hospital.
[59] Treatment was not always voluntary: in the second half of the 19th century, the Contagious Diseases Act was used to arrest suspected prostitutes. In 1924, a number states concluded the Brussels Agreement, whereby states agreed to provide free or low-cost medical treatment at ports for merchant seamen with venereal diseases.
The first effective treatment for a sexually transmitted disease was salvarsan, a treatment for syphilis. With the discovery of antibiotics, a large number of sexually transmitted diseases became easily curable, and this, combined with effective public health campaigns against STDs, led to a public perception during the 1960s and 1970s that they have ceased to be a serious medical threat.
During this period, the importance of contact tracing in treating STIs was recognized. By tracing the sexual partners of infected individuals, testing them for infection, treating the infected and tracing their contacts in turn, STI clinics could be very effective at suppressing infections in the general population.
In the 1980s, first genital herpes and then AIDS emerged into the public consciousness as sexually transmitted diseases that could not be cured by modern medicine. AIDS in particular has a long asymptomatic period—during which time HIV (the human immunodeficiency virus, which causes AIDS) can replicate and the disease can be transmitted to others—followed by a symptomatic period, which leads rapidly to death unless treated. HIV/AIDS entered the United States in about 1969 likely through a single infected immigrant from Haiti.
[60] Recognition that AIDS threatened a global pandemic led to public information campaigns and the development of treatments that allow AIDS to be managed by suppressing the replication of HIV for as long as possible. Contact tracing continues to be an important measure, even when diseases are incurable, as it helps to contain infection. See Also Prostitution ,Street prostitution ,Global prostitution prices Sex topics & Phrasebooks ,Sex worker ,Prostitute types Red-light district ,List of red-light districts all over the world Brothel ,Escort agency ,Call girl ,Erotic massage ,Strip club Sex tourism ,Sex industry ,Countries with most prostitutes Sex vocabulary & Abbreviations ,Humorous sexual terms Gay ,Lesbian ,Gay and lesbian travel ,Bisexuality ,Ladyboy Age of consent ,Stay safe ,Scams ,Safe sex , STD ,HIV/AIDS References {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=book }} {{#invoke:Citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=journal }} {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Hoare A (2010). models of HIV epidemics in Australia and Southeast Asia Australasian contact tracing manual. Specific infections where contact tracing is generally recommended {{#invoke:Citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=journal }} {{#invoke:Citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=journal }} {{#invoke:Citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=journal }} {{#invoke:Citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=journal }} {{#invoke:Citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=journal }} {{#invoke:Citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=journal }} Department of Public Health, City & County of San Francisco (2011).STD Risks Chart Bryan C (2011)INFECTIOUS DISEASE CHAPTER EIGHT SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} {{#invoke:Citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=journal }} {{#invoke:Citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=journal }} {{#invoke:Citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=journal }} {{#invoke:Citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=journal }} King, B. (2009). Human Sexuality Today (Sixth ed.). Upper Saddle River: Pearson Education, Inc. {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} K. Madhav Naidu. Community Health Nursing, Gen Next Publications, 2009, p.248 Virus Pathogenesis, Microbiology Bytes Safe Sex Chart, violet blue: open source sex {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} {{#invoke:Citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=journal }} Williams, M. Healthy Choices for Fertility Control. CreateSpace, Scotts Valley, CA, 2009. ISBN 1-4486-6472-1 {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} {{#invoke:Citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=journal }} Expedited Partner Therapy in the Management of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (2 February 2006) U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National Center for HIV, STD, and TB Prevention {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} {{#invoke:Citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=journal }} {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} "One In Four Teenage Girls In U.S. Has Sexually Transmitted Disease, CDC Study Shows". Science Daily. March 12, 2008. "Sex Infections Found in Quarter of Teenage Girls". The New York Times. March 12, 2008. "CDC study says at least 1 in 4 teen girls has a sexually transmitted disease; HPV most common". The Oklahoman. March 11, 2008. {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} "Obama Ends U.S. Travel Ban On Visitors, Immigrants With HIV-AIDS". ABC News. October 30, 2009. "Report: Black U.S. AIDS rates rival some African nations". CNN.com. July 29, 2008. "Hepatitis: Type B (caused by hepatitis B virus)". Minnesota Department of Health. "Hepatitis B". U.S. Food and Drug Administration. {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=book }} {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=news }} {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=book }} Archives in London and the M25 area (AIM25) London Lock Hospital records {{#invoke:Citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=journal }} Further reading {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation
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Template:Dmoz CDC Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines, 2010 STD photo library at Dermnet UNFPA: Breaking the Cycle of Sexually Transmitted Infections at UNFPA Sexually Transmitted Infections from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases STDs In Color: Sexually Transmitted Disease Facts and Photos [1]: Sexually transmitted diseases in the U.S. | 33,596 | 12,840 | 0.000078 |
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The historical study of law is among the most important domains of global legal scholarship. Indeed, many of the most distinguished academic works on law are historical. And while much scholarly output has focused on ‘textual’ legal history—exploring how legal doctrines, ideas, concepts, principles, and institutions have developed over time—in recent years there has also been a sharpened focus on ‘contextual’ legal history, exploring the interaction and interplay between legal and socio-political change.
Now, to help researchers and students navigate and make better sense of an overabundance of scholarship, Routledge announces a new collection in its Critical Concepts in Law series. Edited by two leading academics, Law and History provides an authoritative ‘mini library’ which explores the development of legal history as an area of study by bringing together major works on the ‘textual’ legal history of English law alongside cutting-edge ‘contextual’ legal history.
Volume I, entitled ‘Historiography’, explores the relationship between law and history and the development of legal history. The second and third volumes ('Public Law’and 'Land Law’ ) explicate law’s historical development, while the collection’s final volume, ‘Law of Obligations', underscores the interaction between legal and social and political change.
With a full index, and thoughtful introductions, newly written by the learned editors, Law and History is sure to be welcomed as a vital and enduring reference and pedagogical resource. | 1,838 | 922 | 0.001152 |
warc | 201704 | The University received the Widening Participation or Outreach Initiative of the Year Award at a ceremony in London which was hosted by actor Richard E Grant on Thursday 24 November.
There are around 375,000 young adults in the UK aged 14-25 who act as unpaid carers for family and friends. Half of young carers report they are struggling with their studies because of their caring role, and without the right information and support they are four times more likely to drop out of education altogether.
During 2014-15, the University of Winchester worked with a number of different partners - including Carers Trust, Hampshire Young Carers Alliance, Hampshire Children's Services and the Princess Royal Trust for Carers in Hampshire - to pave the way for the higher education sector as a whole to increase support for young adult carers in accessing and succeeding in higher education.
The Award recognises work undertaken by the University's Widening Participation team including outreach sessions across Hampshire, on-campus events attended by nearly 200 young carers, and the development of a toolkit of ideas and practical advice written in collaboration between the University of Winchester, Carers Trust and the National Network of Universities Supporting Young Adult Carers.
The University has also supported Carers Trust to persuade the Office for Fair Access to recognise young carers as a disadvantaged group for the first time, and has launched an annual bursary of £500 to help young carers studying at Winchester to cover extra costs such as frequent travel home.
The Award judges said that the University's work "directly addresses" the needs of individuals who "too often find higher education difficult to access and hard to complete".
"The University has led a multi-agency approach to ensure that every opportunity is taken to encourage young carers to succeed," the panel said. "The project has acted as a catalyst not only in making a difference for the individuals concerned but in securing wider recognition of the unique needs of these committed young people."
Professor Joy Carter DL, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Winchester, said: "We are hugely proud to have received this award in recognition of our work with young carers. As a University driven by a strong commitment to social justice, this important work is a wonderful example of our values in action. Our aim is that anyone who might benefit from a University of Winchester education has the opportunity to study here - whatever their background, we will help them achieve their full potential.
"Without additional support, young people with caring responsibilities could be at a disadvantage compared to their peers and the important work that our Widening Participation team is undertaking is leading the way for other universities across the UK. We are incredibly proud of the work the team does and congratulate them for this outstanding achievement."
Sarah-Louise Collins, University Widening Participation Manager, said: "As part of our commitment to widening participation, we recognise young carers as a marginalised group and are making it a priority to raise the educational aspirations, awareness, confidence and motivation of all young carers, whether they eventually choose to study at Winchester or not. It's fantastic for our work to be recognised by a
Times Higher Education Award."
Pictured left to right in the photograph above: Mary Curnock Cook, Chief Executive, UCAS; Professor Colette Cherry, Assistant Vice-Chancellor, University of Winchester; Richard E Grant,
THE Awards host; Dr Terri Sandison MBE, former Director of Lifelong Learning, University of Winchester, and Sarah-Louise Collins, Widening Participation Manager, University of Winchester. | 3,795 | 1,785 | 0.000565 |
warc | 201704 | World Cup extra time could save lives Press Release: 19/06/2006Local home safety experts are asking parents and carers of Under 5's within the Winchester District to spend at least one hour of their time during the current World Cup to think about home safety issues as part of Child Safety Week, which is taking place this week.
The Winchester Prevention of Avoidable Injury Network (PAIN) is offering a free simple Homecheck fact sheet which anyone can use to review home safety and identify any areas that need attention.
Chairman of the Group, Robert Heathcock, who is Head of Environment at Winchester City Council, said it is an ideal opportunity to support the work of the PAINLESS project which aims to reduce the number of injuries to Under 5's.
"We know that the cost of these accidents both in monetary and emotional terms is considerable and by following simple steps most accidents can be avoided.
"With the World Cup on, many people will find at least two hours to watch an important game. We are suggesting they find an additional one hour between matches or once the competition has ended to check that their home is a safe environment for younger children," he added.
Anyone wanting a fact sheet should telephone Winchester City Council on 01962 840 222. Those requesting a fact sheet will also receive free fire home safety advice from Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service who can visit, assess risks and fit free smoke detectors in any areas where they are required.
The PAINLESS Project was established two years ago to develop plans to address the number of injuries to Under 5's in the Winchester District. The Alliance includes members of Winchester City Council, Hampshire Children & Families Forum, Parentline Plus, Winchester Area Community Action, ROSPA., Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service & Meon Valley Homestart. | 1,845 | 970 | 0.001037 |
warc | 201704 | ROCK HILL, S.C. - During good and bad economic times in the state of South Carolina, the Winthrop Regional Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has worked to help business owners find their niche.
In 2004 alone, the center created or saved about 500 jobs and sponsored 47 small business seminars through which more than 550 people attended. They have counseled, on average, as many as 400 clients each year during the past five years. And capital formation, which is the dollar value of loans generated from the center’s business plans, was a record-setting $16,830,773 for the year.
So what price tag comes with SBDC professional services? Virtually none – SBDC services are provided mostly free of charge as long as their clients’ business status complies with the definition of a small business. Minor registration fees ($15) may be incurred with some training seminars. The center, located in 118 Thurmond Hall, has provided management consulting and technical assistance to local small businesses and the community since 1978. Services include one-on-one counseling on matters such as business start up, bookkeeping and marketing strategies. The SBDC also offers seminars and training courses on topics such as business policy, ethics, teamwork and accounting.
Dianne Hockett, assistant professor of business administration, directs the Winthrop Regional SBDC. Hockett, who has worked with the center for 14 years, was promoted to director in August 2004. Working along side her are five team members who are graduate assistants at Winthrop: Eyo Effion, Matthew Foreman, Latasha McIwain, Jeff Reeves and Stacey Singleton.
"I truly believe that SBDC assistance increases the success and longevity of new businesses in our service area,” Hockett said. "And the fact that our consultants are M.B.A. candidates, or from another country, doesn’t seem to phase clients. Instead, our clients appreciate the genuine concern, encouragement, excellent work and support that they are receiving to help them get their businesses up and running."
The SBDC is comprised of two other South Carolina offices; there’s one in Myrtle Beach and the other is in Florence. Together, these three offices serve clients from 15 South Carolina counties. The center is funded through university, federal and state grants, and is operated by a consortium of four universities – University of South Carolina, Clemson University, Winthrop University and South Carolina State University. The center’s free start-up seminars in Rock Hill are held on the second and fourth Mondays each month at 6 p.m. in Room 212, Thurmond. For more information about the SBDC, contact Dianne Hockett at 803/323-2283.
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warc | 201704 | Kids don't need to wait until adulthood to get excited about money. Give them these books to read and the money fun will start early.
Today we found articles on ways to save money at Bed Bath & Beyond, Internet hacks to simplify your web surfing, and fun ways for pet lovers to make money.
If the friendly skies aren't so friendly to your wallet, these flight-booking hacks will help.
Make 2017 the year of stellar organization by gathering all of your clutter and tossing it out.
Things took an unfortunate turn for Max — somewhat literally — on the 110 Freeway. Can she find the silver lining in her totaled set of wheels?
You probably received one or two gifts you aren't crazy about. Instead of letting them collect dust, sell them and make a little cash!
Finding the right collar for your pet isn't easy, but it can be. Get any of collars and your pet will be easily identified, and so so cute.
The winter blues can put heavy strain on your sleep, diet, and, you guessed it — even your finances. Here's how to perk up — for your money's sake.
Prescription drug savings? There's a coupon for that! Just make sure you're up to speed on the finer print, first.
Making sure you're always prepared in an emergency isn't easy, but it can be. Get any of these emergency kits and you can weather any storm.
A quick coffee or swing by the vending machine sounds awfully convenient, but the damage to your wallet is anything but.
Airbnb isn't your only solution for short-term vacation rentals. Check out these other sites, too!
Today we found articles on post-holiday sales you never knew about, New Year’s resolutions that will pay off in 10 years, and secrets about shopping at the Apple Store.
Next time you're ready to spend some cash, try shopping these brands. The dollars you spend there will go toward making the world a better place.
You know you need a budget for day-to-day life. Why not make one for your next great getaway, too?
These homes are as famous as the stars who "lived" in them. And you can live in one, too!
Time to say goodbye to 2016 forever and begin anew. These New Year's resolutions will make 2017 your best year ever.
Max's Mr. Spendypants has learned his own share of frugal living lessons during Max's savings challenge year.
So 2016 was a tough one. But instead of looking back in horror, look ahead with excitement, because 2017 is going to be your year.
Today we found articles on ways to live in the big city on a small budget, tips for flying first class on the cheap, and affordable European vacation destinations.
Have holiday debt? Pay it off with a card that offers a 0% intro APR on balance transfers.
When your hotel room is terrible, you know who to call. Who do you call when your Airbnb stay is awful?
It's that time of year when everyone you know is sick with either a cold or the flu. If you catch it too, here's how to recover without breaking the bank.
Today we found articles timesaving hacks for busy moms, things you should stop doing if you have anxiety, and super useful things you can make with a 3D printer.
Idle browsing is a fun way to pass the time, but at the end of the day, cute pix of Toonces won't make you your best you.
Worried about weight gain or indigestion on the road? Bring healthy foods with you and you'll be able to fully enjoy your travels.
Keeping your pet's nails short isn't easy, but it can be. Just use any of these pet nail clippers, and your pet's nails will stay trim and clean.
'Tis the season when pretty much everyone is sick. And it turns out, these common illnesses are a total money suck.
Finding your precious tech items isn't always easy, but it can be. Just use any of these bluetooth trackers, and you'll never lose your phone again.
Did you know that you can drastically reduce your travel costs by learning the local language?
While you're enjoying vacation, a pickpocket may be enjoying a moment to strike. Protect yourself from theft no matter where you travel.
You've resolved to give your finances a boost this year — that's great! These money moves will help get you there.
Winter can be a total bummer, especially when you're stuck inside all day. Shift your mindset with these fun ideas for a positive mood shift.
Life is messy, but with the right paper towels on hand, it doesn't have to be. Use any of these paper towels and all those little messes will be easy to handle.
Many factors can spike your health care costs through the roof. Including being a woman.
You don't need a lot to start flipping stuff for cash — some of it you may already have!
Today we found articles on ways to build a solid travel budget, amazing uses for lavender essential oil, and how to get started as a flea market vendor.
Maintaining comfort while camping doesn't have to be difficult. Get any of these sleeping pads and you'll get a restful night's sleep under the stars.
We don't know exactly what 2017 will bring, but we do know that these grocery items will cost less!
Today we found articles on things that self-made millionaires don’t do, strategic ways to increase your net worth, and tips for couch surfing.
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The green-singing finch is a small bird of the finch family, closely related to the canary. These birds are distinctive not only for the quality of their bird-song, but also for their vivid green and yellow coloring. Though native to the African savannah, the green-singing finch is bred and sold in many other parts of the world. These birds can become quite aggressive, especially during mating season, so breeding should probably be undertaken only by those with the necessary skills.
Considered one of the world’s smallest birds, the green-singing finch typically weighs around .71 ounces (20 grams). From the tip of the beak to the end of their tail feathers, the birds measures about 4.75 inches (12 centimeters). Unlike many other types of birds, there is little color difference in the plumage of the males and females, though the depth of color is considered more intense in the males. Both sexes have bright green feathering on their backs and vivid yellow under bellies. The crown, neck, and wings are typically accented with gray.
The lifespan of the green-singing finch is quite long, as they often live in excess of 12 years. In captivity, these birds can sometimes live more than 15 years. Some of the primary health risks these finches face are found in changes in weather and temperature. Excessive dampness may be particularly harmful, as these finches need a fairly dry environment to prosper.
In the wild, the green-singing finch prefers an environment that offers scrub brush and low foliage. They generally make their home at or near a body of water. Their diet consists of seeds from grasses, tress, and shrubs, and when available, they may also feed on small insects and worms. When kept in captivity, the birds should be given feed especially formulated for finches.
During mating season, green-singing finches may become quite aggressive. The male birds often not only become aggressive toward other males, but to the females as well. When breeding in captivity, the mating pairs are usually kept separate from other birds. Once the female has laid her eggs and is nesting, she should be approached carefully. If startled, she may leave the nest and it can be difficult to coax her back onto it.
Eggs typically hatch about two weeks after being laid. The young birds eat the same diet as the adult birds, and are usually self-sufficient within a couple of weeks after hatching. Young birds stay with the nest until another mating season approaches, when they are typically driven away.
One of our editors will review your suggestion and make changes if warranted. Note that depending on the number of suggestions we receive, this can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Thank you for helping to improve wiseGEEK! | 2,815 | 1,374 | 0.000732 |
warc | 201704 | Bill Clinton has left the White House with the highest approval ratings of any recent president. These approval ratings, of course, reflect an ignorant public and a corrupt political culture obsessed with trivialities.
While Clinton said what America wanted to hear on subjects like sex and race, he acted in a way that undermined our global position. Talk of “free trade,” homosexual rights and racial harmony nudged discussions of global strategy into a dark corner. The evil deeds of Columbus and the Boy Scouts, the horrors of Christian morality and concern for the stock market overtook concerns about communist China, North Korea and Russia.
Narcissism overtook our culture decades ago. But with the supreme narcissist in the White House, politics itself embraced and internalized narcissistic reflexes. Long ago Christopher Lasch noted that narcissists are seductive and manipulative. Their emphasis is on personality instead of character. They believe that anything and everyone can be manipulated.
But empty manipulators build on a weak foundation. Clinton’s neglect of America’s military strength (which Congress also bears responsibility for) will catch up with us. The Clinton era was purchased at great cost — greater than anyone now realizes. Our outgoing president ignored the growing alliance between Russia and China. He allowed Chinese subversion to entrench itself behind a free trade ideology that many Republicans foolishly embraced. Clinton also turned a blind eye to Kremlin treaty-breaking and North Korea’s nuclear missile program. His feeble attack on Serbia only strengthened the moral arguments of America’s enemies.
Time and again Clinton’s decisions hurt America’s global position. Even so, the public approves of what he has done. They approve only because they do not understand. They approve because his rhetoric embraces homosexuals, abortion, racial harmony and free trade. There is candy enough here for everyone. But there is also candy for the Chinese and Russians militarists, who have played Clinton for billions.
One of the biggest pieces of candy offered up by Clinton went to the Chinese.
One of the first tests of the new administration will involve China and the Panama Canal. President Clinton oversaw the transfer of the Canal’s key ports to Chinese front companies. When asked by a reporter about this issue, Clinton replied: “I think the Chinese will, in fact, be bending over backwards to make sure that they run [the canal] in a competent and able and fair manner.”
The most strategic waterway in the Western Hemisphere, once defended by powerful U.S. military bases, has quietly changed hands. Not only could the People’s Liberation Army use Panama’s ports to ship armaments to Marxist insurgents in Latin America, but they could ship medium range missiles into the hemisphere. They could also close the canal by sabotage or other means.
While Clinton’s politics reflected America’s obsession with sex and race, his strategic statements reflected our country’s strategic ignorance. “I would be very surprised,” said Clinton, “if any adverse consequences flowed from the Chinese running of the canal.”
Now that Clinton is gone, our new president must take steps to knock the Chinese out of the canal. If the new administration fails to act, it will be a sure sign of internal rottenness. It will show that both political parties have fallen victim to extensive Chinese influence operations.
Another area that needs attention is the protection of sensitive data. As we all saw, America’s nuclear secrets were unprotected under Clinton. When espionage was discovered, when all our nuclear warheads had been compromised, the administration sought to punish (of all people) Notra Trulock and other whistleblowers. In his book entitled “The China Threat,” Bill Gertz noted that, “The administration wasn’t interested in catching spies. Its highest priority was repressing its critics, especially those in American intelligence. …”
Our new president must devise a real security regime. Spies must be caught and executed. The punishment for treason should be death. If we cannot enforce discipline in matters of national survival, especially with regard to weapons of mass destruction, then our global position is indefensible. We might as well run up a white flag.
There is also another matter that begs for correction. During Clinton’s presidency the Russians and Chinese broke solemn agreements. They exported key components for building weapons of mass destruction to dictators who hate the United States. These exports were calculated and purposeful. But our strategic leadership in Washington did nothing. Harsh sanctions should have been applied to any government that seeks to harm us through the proliferation of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons.
We need a president who will defend us against subtle dangers. We also need a president who is courageous enough to put long-term survival ahead of short-term profits. Buying products from China contributes to their $562 billion trade surplus which Beijing turns around and uses against us. This policy, which is profitable to certain American businessmen, should have been curtailed long ago. If our new president lacks the political will to break off relations with our enemies, if he cannot see that they are using trade as
a weapon to buy political influence in Washington, then we are lost.
Clinton undermined our national security. The next president must repair the damage. He must take the Panama Canal away from the Chinese. He must hold the Russians accountable for violating the ABM, INF and START treaties. He must enforce our treaties and prevent the proliferation of mass destruction weapons.
If our new Republican president fails to be a global strategist, if he does not move decisively to fix the problems created by Clinton, the country will pay dearly in blood and treasure for its political sins. | 6,087 | 2,859 | 0.000359 |
warc | 201704 | June is an exciting month for graduating high school seniors. But for the thousands of young immigrants who lack legal status, graduation day can be a moment of great uncertainty.
Undocumented youth have been on the front lines of the struggle for immigrant rights. They call themselves DREAMers to evoke both the proposed federal DREAM Act and a hope that they, too, can achieve the American Dream.
But the DREAMer movement is in flux. Once monolithic, it is now fragmented, because frustration at the slow pace of progress has reached a new high. One reason is that the federal DREAM Act has yet to be enacted more than a decade after it was first introduced. Locally, the New York Senate earlier this year narrowly defeated the proposed state Dream Act, which would have provided college aid to undocumented students — an estimated 90,000 young immigrants would have been eligible. And this week, in response to growing concerns about thousands of unaccompanied immigrant minors who illegally crossed the border into the U.S., Republican lawmakers called on President Obama to deport DREAMers, even if they've been granted a temporary reprieve from deportation or deferred action.
As a result of the federal and local immigration reform impasse, growing numbers of young immigrant activists are questioning the core goals of the DREAMer movement.
Among them is Razeen Zaman, who came to the United States with her family from Bangladesh 22 years ago. Her family fled political violence, she said, and later fell out of legal status in the U.S. after an immigration attorney scammed them. Today she’s a law student at Fordham University and and no longer refers to herself as a DREAMer.
“It creates a special elitist divide, where we create one category of deserving peopl, who deserve a better, a faster, an easier pathway to citizenship; and everyone else is somehow made undeserving,” she said.
Another former DREAMer is Claudia Muñoz, who grew up in Monterrey, Mexico, and moved to Houston, Texas at 16. She once fought for comprehensive immigration reform, but last year — after a family member was nearly deported — Muñoz turned herself in at the Calhoun County Correctional Facility near Detroit to organize detainees from within and document the conditions they were living in.
Her experience in the detention center and the experience her family has had with the immigration system in the U.S. has made her skeptical of the goals of immigration reform activism. “That trauma they now have over deportation — papers can’t fix. And there’s a lot of things that papers can’t fix,” she said.
Thousands still continue to fight for comprehensive immigration reform. But the struggle for immigrant rights is changing once again.
Von Diaz comes to us from Feet in 2 Worlds, a project that brings the work of immigrant journalists to public radio. A longer text version of this piece is available on their website. | 2,997 | 1,518 | 0.000677 |
warc | 201704 | Surrounded by business leaders, Governor Cuomo outlined a plan that would cut business taxes, and result in property tax reductions for businesses and homeowners, if local governments and schools comply with a set of requirements in the next three years.
Cuomo wants to reduce the corporate tax rate, and eliminate it altogether for manufacturers who want to expand or locate upstate, where the economy continues to lag.
“You can’t beat zero,” Cuomo said.
Cuomo, a Democrat, recommends adopting most of the recommendations of a tax commission that he appointed and was co- led by one of his predecessors, former Republican Governor George Pataki.
The plan for property tax reductions could freeze tax rates for two years. But it is dependent on local governments, schools, and other taxing entities, like water boards and library boards, holding the line on spending. In exchange, the state would give them some additional money. The local governments and schools would also, in the second year of the program, have to demonstrate that they are consolidating and sharing some services with other governments. If they fail to do that, the state would withdraw the additional aid, and property taxes would go up after all. Then, Cuomo says, the local government leaders and school officials would be the ones to explain to the tax payers why the tax freeze was rescinded.
“You’ll have to explain to them why they didn’t,” Cuomo said.
In the third year of the property tax reduction plan, lower income earners and homeowners who pay a high percentage of their income in property taxes, could see a tax rebate in what’s known as a circuit breaker.
The plan also includes a tax credit for renters in New York City. It also significantly lowers estate taxes, by raising the threshold of taxable estates from $1 million dollars to just over $5 million dollars, and lowering the tax rate to 10%.
The plan was praised by business leaders who attended the power point presentation, including the Business Council President, Heather Briccetti.
“I really think if we could just pass it today, and get it signed into law, that would be terrific,” Briccetti said.
Not everyone is on board, though. Ron Deutsch, with New Yorkers for Fiscal Fairness, a progressive leaning group, says the plan does not go far enough to address New York’s income inequality, and gives too generous a tax break to wealthy families passing on their estates to their heirs. Deutsch’s group advocated for a circuit breaker for property taxes, but he says Cuomo’s plan is too complicated, and too reliant on the machinations of local governments.
“What the governor needs to do is scrap the idea of these estate tax reductions and giving money to the wealthiest families, ” said Deutsch, who say the tax breaks should instead go to those who “desperately need it."
While some of the tax breaks could take effect in the upcoming year, as long as the legislature agrees to the plan, the full $2.2 billion dollar a year program, including the circuit breaker, would not take effect for three years.
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio wants an additional tax on New York’s richest, to pay for universal pre-Kindergarten. Cuomo says while he agrees with the goal of universal pre-K, he does not include new taxes on high income earners in his plan. But the governor says he realizes that the economy could worsen by the time his tax cut plan is fully phased in, and he did not rule out extending the state’s temporary income tax surcharge on millionaires, due to expire in 2017, to help pay for it all.
Reaction from legislative leaders was initially positive. In a statement, Senate Republican leader Dean Skelos said He is “encouraged that the Governor has included a number of long-held priorities of the Senate Republican conference in his recommendations," but urged Cuomo to go one step further and enact a permanent cap on state spending.
Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, a Democrat, called the tax plan a “bold” vision, but says the state budget ultimately needs to “meet the needs of our state's most vulnerable citizens while at the same time providing tax relief for those who need it most." | 4,289 | 1,987 | 0.000519 |
warc | 201704 | The ISSC & the United Nationspublished: January 10, 2013
The ISSC is very proud to announce that, following Rio+20, the ISSC has been formally appointed as a co-organizing partner for the Scientific and Technological Community Major Groups within the United Nations system.
The Major Groups structure, as designed by the UN, represents one of the highest levels of stakeholder engagement in an intergovernmental process. The structure was proposed in 1992 at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (Earth Summit), and its purpose is to enable the scientific and technological community, which includes, among others, engineers, architects, industrial designers, urban planners and other professionals and policy makers, to make a more open and effective contribution to the decision-making processes concerning sustainability, environment and development.
The move to formally bring on board the ISSC as a co-organizing partner within the Major Groups signals the ISSC’s growing visibility and status as the leading voice of social sciences on the world stage. And it goes further to secure a space for the social sciences within the UN system.
We are excited and pleased to have the voice of the social sciences included. | 1,255 | 662 | 0.001524 |
warc | 201704 | The process of setting and achieving the organization's goals through organizational resources is called management. To accomplish organizational goals, managers perform four basic functions of managerial work which are known as the four functions of management. These functions include planning, organizing, leading and controlling. These functions are highly integrated and recur throughout the organization. The four functions of management are important to all organizations, whether they are large national corporations, small family based businesses, or nonprofit organization.
1. PlanningPlanning is the first function of management. Planning is the continuing process to set an organization's goals missions and objectives, determining how to accomplish these goals, selecting priorities and results, identifying methods, resources, responsibilities and timeliness. Planning makes organizations adaptable to changes by identifying opportunities and avoiding problems. Planning improves the decision making process and sets the direction for the other functions of management. Planning helps the management to direct employee efforts towards group and organizational goal attainment.
The planning function determines the effectiveness, efficiency and strategy of the organization .The activities in the planning process include: define mission, analyze weaknesses and strengths, identify threats and opportunities, set objectives and goals, develop operations and tactics and monitor plan. Planning is the step that is passed down to employees from the most upper management.
2. OrganizingThe second function of management is organizing. The establishment of the internal organizational structure of an organization and distribution of authority is referred to as organizing. The organizing process translates the planned steps into reality. An organizational structure is the outcome of organizing function. This structure coordinates and motivates employees to work together to achieve goals. The activities in the organizing process include: reviewing plans, list tasks, group tasks into jobs, group jobs, assign work and delegate authority and responsibilities.
3. LeadingThe third function of management is leading. | 2,233 | 948 | 0.001058 |
warc | 201704 | Aim: To calculate the value of n in MgCl2.nH2O
Theory: Gravimetric analysis is where the amount of a specific chemical in a material is determined by converting it to a product which can be isolated completely and weighed. This is relevant to this experiment as the amount of water is an unknown value which is to be found by carrying out the analysis.
Heating to constant mass is when repeated heating, cooling then weighing is carried out until the mass of the substance is constant.
The number of moles of water in a substance can be found by measuring the loss in mass on heating.
MgCl2.nH2O MgCl2.nH2O
'n' can be calculated by comparing the mass of hydrated salt with the mass of anhydrous salt by heating to constant mass.
Apparatus: The equipment required is:
a porcelain crucible and lid
tripod
pipe-clay triangle
bunsen burner and heating mat
desiccator
tongs
a balance
hydrated barium chloride.
Method: To get rid of any water the crucible was heated, then allowed to cool in a desiccator and its mass was noted (M1). 2-3g of magnesium chloride was then added and the crucible reweighed (M2). The crucible and its contents were then reheated for 15 minutes, allowed to cool and again weighed (M3). The crucible and its contents were then heated, allowed to cool and weighed again, (M4), to make sure the loss in mass was complete. This step was repeated until M4 and M5 were constant.
Results: M1 = 39.59g
M2 = 41.62g
M3 = 40.64g
M4 = 40.63g
Average mass of crucible and anhydrous MgCl2 = 40.635
Mass of anhydrous MgCl2 (M4 - M1) = 1.045g
Number of moles of MgCl2 (GFM = 95.3g) = 1.045/95.3
= 0.012moles
Mass of H2O removed M2 - M4 = 0.985g
Number of moles... | 1,696 | 839 | 0.001211 |
warc | 201704 | Every year, over 160 000 people in the US alone die just because of lung cancer. Just because of lung cancer, many adulthoods have been cut short; just because of lung cancer, many families have been ripped apart; just because of lung cancer, many people will now have to face treatments that will change their lives forever. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among men and second highest among women. Of the thousands that it claims annually, the majority of them are smokers.
There are six main types of lung cancer. Though they differ in characteristics and behavior, they share the same purpose: to invade nearby tissues or spread throughout the body starting from the lung. The six kinds of lung cancers are squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinomas, bronchioloal- veolar carcinoma, small-cell undifferentiated carcinoma, large-cell carcinoma, and other rare types of cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma usually starts near the bronchial tubes, and then spreads out.
Adenocarcinomasa originate on the outer edges of the lungs. Bronchioloalveolar carcinoma arises in the even more outlying areas and can occur in non-smokers. Small-cell undifferentiated carcinoma consists of small cells that are shaped like rods and spread rapidly. Large-cell carcinoma, on the other hand, is composed of large, abnormal cells that spread starting from the outer edges of the lung. Rare cancers of other types may be found though it only accounts for 5% of all lung cancer. Of all of these, squamous cell carcinoma represents the largest number of lung cancers.
Though lung cancer is an extremely deadly disease, there are ways that it can be cured. One of the ways to treat cancer is surgery. In this treatment, the abnormal cancer cells in the lung are removed. Another way is chemotherapy; drugs that are effective against the cancer cells are... | 1,853 | 858 | 0.001169 |
warc | 201704 | In light of recent policy proposals in the District, what is the value of the geographic-based (neighborhood) school enrollment model, and has this model’s benefits been eclipsed by the alternatives that open-enrollment (school choice) models offer families?
Their responses are fascinating — ranging from support of neighborhood schools to criticism of choice models overly simple in nature. Join the conversation: You’re seated at the Field Day blog roundtable.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
"For Equity and Integration, School Choice Is the Better Choice"
Halley Potter
Policy Associate at The Century Foundation
For me, “neighborhood” conjures an image of
Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood:blocks of brightly colored houses filled with a diverse community of people that cooperate with one another. But many neighborhoods across the U.S. are highly segregated by race and class, and the number of Americans living in neighborhoods with concentrated poverty is on the rise. As a result, the neighborhood school model is problematic.
Let’s look at what’s happening locally. Under one of the proposed choice plans, families would have chosen from among several local elementary schools rather than having guaranteed admission to a single school. One “choice cluster” in Capitol Hill, for example, would have contained both Brent Elementary and Tyler Elementary. The two schools are less than a mile apart, but their demographics are strikingly different: Brent is 11 percent low-income, compared with 99 percent at Tyler. Under the choice plan, there would have been new potential to balance enrollment — moving toward two mixed-income schools instead of one affluent, one poor.
The proposed plans weren’t perfect, but still, it’s disappointing that the mayor’s choice proposals have been taken off the table. They could have been a step in the right direction toward more integrated schools in the District.
For example, in communities such as Cambridge, Mass., and Champaign, Ill., a system of “controlled choice” across a district eliminates attendance boundaries and instead assigns students to schools based on parents’ ranked preferences, balanced with an algorithm to make sure that schools are demographically similar. Schools that are struggling academically get extra support to institute new magnet themes, such as Montessori or STEM programs, to help attract families. Most families get one of their top choices, and schools are much more socioeconomically and racially integrated than they would be under a neighborhood enrollment plan.
Moving forward, D.C. residents should push for enrollment policies like these that promote choice and equity. School choice, more than a neighborhood school model, has the potential to create socioeconomically and racially integrated schools by drawing together students from across an area. Unchecked choice can lead to increased segregation when access to information is unequal, schools intentionally target homogeneous populations, or there are not enough strong choices. But when choice policies are implemented with clear goals for diversity and mechanisms for balancing enrollment, school choice can promote equitable educational opportunities for all students.
"Take away the neighborhood school model, and you take away a critical opportunity to build neighborhoods"
Andy Rowe
Parent; Washington, D.C. resident; member of the Chancellor’s Parent Cabinet in District of Columbia Public Schools
Neighborhood schools are the best way to knit D.C. neighborhoods together. They are one of the few places where people who live next to each other without having to engage are provided the opportunity to do so for the benefit of their children and their neighborhoods.
The reality is that we can all live in a city where we have minimal engagement with each other as individuals, parents, and families. We don't even have to engage with our neighborhood schools to educate our children. However, if we hope to build an integrated city, the place to begin is at the neighborhood school, where parents — who are otherwise unlikely to come together — can work in sync to benefit their children, develop bonds, and collaborate outside of schools.
These opportunities make it possible to build strong communities that can reach beyond schools and into parks, recreation centers, libraries, and the halls of the D.C. Council and the mayor’s office. I know this to be true from my experience at Powell Bilingual Elementary School, where we have a growing group of multiethnic, multilingual parents from a number of backgrounds sorting out differences and working together in ways usually not found outside of neighborhood schools. By coming together, we successfully fought for a major school modernization that will help make Powell a neighborhood institution. Further, our nucleus of active parents is working to build neighborhood middle school and high school options for our children and to enrich the social fabric of our neighborhood.
Neighborhood schools enable parents like myself to translate love for our children and willingness to engage with our neighbors into local social capital. From getting to know your neighbors’ kids to reaching across divides of race, class, and language, these bonds not only cultivate meaningful social ties, but strengthen neighborhood families’ ability to advocate for education dollars. If neighborhoods matter to you, so should neighborhood schools.
"Without Control, Choice May Not Yield Desired Results"
LeighAnn M. Smith
Juris Doctor Candidate, The George Washington University Law School
Former Teacher, Baltimore City Public Schools
Taken at face value, school choice models are attractive. They provide families with better options and (theoretically) assist integration of classrooms across lines of race and class. After some examination, however, it is clear that not
allchoice models yield both of these results. The absence of controlled choice options justifies D.C. parents’ reluctance toward recent school enrollment plans, and it raises the question of whether our children have actually been offered the best solutions.
As Ms. Potter suggests, there are districts that operate controlled choice models — with the best results necessitating careful calculations (even incredibly complicated ones). In contrast to these models, D.C.’s two remaining proposals involve a simple “lottery” system. In order to effectively improve student opportunity to quality schools via integrated classrooms, the lottery model needs to go beyond luck-of-the-draw and be controlled to consider factors such as family income and neighborhood composition, at the least. Therefore, the details of any such lottery would be as important as the existence of the choice model itself in ensuring diversity.
Which leads us to the most important point: An uncontrolled choice model may not result in a better school selection for students and families. This is, of course, based on the premise that integration itself isn’t the magic wand
—but the more equitable distribution of resources that integration promotes very well could be. Thus, if the choice models given cannot effectuate an equitable distribution of resources, perhaps more drastic change to the neighborhood schools can yield results. One of the PK-8 schools where I taught in Baltimore City uses a version of the community school model, bringing resources and services to children and families through partnerships with outside organizations. The beauty of such model is it fulfills the greater needs of students and families while still allowing them to be down the street. Proximity helps to build the community that Mr. Rowe speaks of: Students can stay later after school, and teachers can stop by and drop off work or do a report card conference at home.
Perhaps D.C. parents are right — the uncontrolled choice options before us, left unchecked, may not be the right ones for their children. And if a school-wide shuffling and selection model isn’t done right, perhaps we are better off strategically devoting resources to the schools that need it most.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
What do you think? Engage these bloggers or share your own perspective on school enrollment models in the comments below. | 8,565 | 3,734 | 0.000274 |
warc | 201704 | Sustiva Use During Pregnancy May Cause Fetal HarmJun 14, 2005 | www.medscape.com
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Bristol-Myers Squibb have warned healthcare professionals via letter against the use of efavirenz (Sustiva) during pregnancy due to the potential risk of fetal harm, especially during the first trimester, according to an alert sent last Friday from MedWatch, the FDA's safety information and adverse event reporting system.
The change in pregnancy category from C to D was based on four retrospective reports of neural tube defects in infants born to women with first trimester exposure to efavirenz, including three cases of meningomyelocele and one of Dandy Walker Syndrome. The FDA recommends that women of childbearing potential undergo pregnancy testing prior to initiation of efavirenz therapy and that pregnancy be avoided during treatment through use of barrier contraception in combination with other contraceptive methods. In animal studies of efavirenz, malformations were observed in 3 (15%) of 20 fetuses/infants (vs 0 in placebo controls) born to cynomolgus monkeys treated throughout pregnancy with a daily dose of efavirenz that yielded plasma concentrations similar to that of human adults receiving the recommended dosage of 600 mg per day. In these monkeys, efavirenz crossed the placenta to produce fetal blood concentrations similar to that of the mother. The fetuses showed anencephaly plus unilateral anophthalmia, microophthalmia, and a cleft palate, respectively. An increase in fetal resorptions was observed in rats administered efavirenz doses that produced peak plasma concentrations and area under the curve (AUC) values equivalent to or lower than those achieved in humans receiving a 600-mg dose per day. No reproductive toxicities were observed in pregnant rabbits at doses that produced peak plasma concentrations similar to and AUC values approximately half of those achieved in humans receiving 600 mg of efavirenz per day. According to the FDA, limited data are available regarding birth defects occurring after intrauterine exposure to efavirenz. Of pregnancy outcomes in 206 women (207 fetuses) exposed to efavirenz-containing regimens (mostly in the first trimester), birth defects occurred in 5 (5.68%) of 188 live births with first-trimester exposure, and in 0 of 13 live births with second- or third-trimester exposure. Although none of the defects in the prospective study were neural tube defects, four such cases have been reported retrospectively in women exposed to efavirenz-containing regimens during the first trimester. While a causal role for efavirenz has not been established, the FDA regards the combined findings as a reason for concern and cautions against the use of efavirenz during pregnancy. Efavirenz should be used during the first trimester of pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, such as in pregnant women lacking other therapeutic options. Patients receiving efavirenz during the first trimester or who become pregnant during treatment should be apprised of the potential harm to the fetus. Related articles | 3,153 | 1,433 | 0.000699 |
warc | 201704 | + A great learning experienceDear Editor:
I wanted to share with readers the amazing opportunity I was given during the 2011-2012 school year. I was a part of a select few high school students who got to intern at Mote Marine. The application process was long and hard, but the experience was well worth it.
The internship was broken down in two parts — one part educational and the other part volunteer. During the educational part, all 15 interns met at the Mote Education Research Center (MERC) every other Wednesday for meetings. During these meetings we would discuss upcoming project ideas and learn about the work it takes to be a marine biologist.
One of the big projects we did during the internship was take care of and raise a saltwater tank. We split into three groups with different habitats: mangrove, benthic (sea floor) and sea grass. We went in the water across from Mote and caught our own animals. After catching them, we let them explore their temporary homes and discussed more tank guidelines, such as testing for appropriate temperature and pH levels.
In the short two months our five-person group had to take care of our tank, we were worn out. We couldn’t imagine taking care of one as large as the shark tank! This really opened our eyes to the amount of work aquarists do and allowed for a new appreciation of them.
During the volunteer part of the internship, we were required to work a number of shifts, as well as overnights consisting of anything from labeling gear to guiding kayak trips. An overnight is when a group of children — usually Girl/Boy Scouts or a school class — get to spend the night in the aquarium. The kids showed such excitement and interest while learning all about the sea animals. They asked terrific questions and looked up to the interns. It was great because at night the animals don’t have the same behaviors, which made it a whole new experience.
Overall the internship taught me that hard work and dedication can take you far. Mote has given me so much, both learning-wise and personally. I am now pursuing my passion for sharks by studying research on them. Thank you, Mote.
Lauren Peacock, Lakewood Ranch High School student, Bradenton
Lakewood Ranch High School student, Bradenton | 2,278 | 1,179 | 0.000861 |
warc | 201704 | Surviving on a single income. Couples take turns at earning and learning.
You've got to hand it to Bill and Hillary Clinton: Despite all their bad behavior, they do know how to take turns. When Bill headed off to Washington for his first term as president, Hillary left her law practice and followed. When their time at the White House was up and Hillary ran for Senate, Bill embraced his role as spouse. And a fine political husband he has been, showing up for fundraisers, waving and smiling, and praising his gal at every opportunity.
Taking turns is a skill we learn early on at the playground but allow to erode as adults. You rarely see couples making magnanimous offers like “You swing first, and then I’ll take a turn.” Instead, partners hook up while both are working and either live out their years on two incomes or permanently split duties between primary earner and child-rearer.
While the world makes all sorts of progress around us, we keep recycling the tired argument about whether women should work or be moms. The perpetual either/or of early feminism has trapped us in a worn-out dilemma of choosing to be dreary homemakers or depleted professionals.
I’d like to kill off that debate for eternity. Let’s ask not which to be, but
when. This is a far more freeing question; it’s predicated on the belief that men and women can both work hard and both take breaks—and improve their marriages in the process.
Here’s an example: Mark P., a software project manager, and Cris G., a technical writer, have been together for 19 years, over the course of which they’ve swapped the role of major earner several times. In 1988, Cris’s mother was suffering from Alzheimer’s; to care for her, someone needed to research services, hire helpers, and make financial arrangements. “Cris did that, while I worked,” says Mark. A decade later, laid off during the technology bust, Mark decided to spend a year writing a novel.
More Juicy Content From YourTango: like us on facebookIf you 'like' us, we'll LOVE you! | 2,088 | 1,157 | 0.000896 |
warc | 201704 | With gas prices topping $5 per gallon in some states, the case for electric vehicles (EV) is more compelling than ever.
Yet, in spite of the economic benefits to consumers, federal funding, and the fanfare surrounding America's return to electric vehicles (celebrated by the debut of
The Revenge of the Electric Car last year's Tribeca Film Festival), just a few communities are prepared to take advantage of the benefits electric vehicles provide.
In Feb. 24 media teleconference, the Electric Drive Transportation Association (EDTA) recognized four of these communities -- Austin, Tx., Los Angeles, Ca., Normal, Ill.; and Mercer Island, Wash. -- for their commitment to EV technology and infrastructure.
"These cities are truly the pioneers of electric drive across America," said Brian Wynne, president of the EDTA.
Collectively, the four cities provide a blueprint of best practices for other cities interested in investing in renewable energy:
Austin, Texas
By pairing its 116 citywide Plug-In EVerywhere public access stations with GreenChoice, a program that allows consumers to purchase electricity from wind and biogas facilities, Austin Energy is piloting the first 100 percent renewable EV charging network. Current EV drivers can purchase six-months of charging station access for $25. (Six months of gasoline costs the average American $2,316.54, according to a 2011 study by CNN Money.)
Normal, Illinois
Mayor Chris Koos is hoping to turn his city of 52,000 residents into an EVTown through partnerships with Mitsubishi an other local corporations. In addition to federal tax rebate on electric cars, Normal residents will be able eligible for special state and local tax breaks that bring the price of the Mitsubishi i down from $29,195 to $21,625. Mitsubishi is helping to install 30 high-speed charging stations as well.
Mercer Island, Washington
The City of Mercer Island has streamlined the process for obtaining a permit to install a home EV charger.
Los Angeles, California
To track EV charging patterns and to better ascertain where to allocate future resources, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power is offering $2,000 rebates to offering the first 1,000 residential customers who purchase an electric vehicle and install a charger and time-of-use meter in their homes.
Related video on SmartPlanet:
[video=6262850]
This post was originally published on Smartplanet.com | 2,420 | 1,301 | 0.000775 |
warc | 201704 | Online Enrollment and Student Achievement: A Treatment Effects Model
D. Scott Bosworth and Tyler J. Bowles
This study examines the effect on student achievement of online attendance in a principles of macroeconomic course. Previous studies have indicated that there is no significant difference in student achievement resulting from online versus traditional lecture-based attendance. The study applys a treatment effects model to test the hypothesis of "no significant difference" across course format. This model controls for selection bias in testing whether student learning outcomes are different across course formats with endogenous enrollment choice. The study presents results indicating that online students generally outperformed their traditional counterparts after controlling for differences in student type. | 828 | 443 | 0.002274 |
warc | 201704 | Also known as Chinese restaurant syndrome, many people claim adverse reactions after eating food containing the flavor enhancer ‘
monosodium glutamate‘. Some people claim they experience headaches, stomachaches or muscle spasms after consuming the flavor enhancer. One reader wanted to know if there was any truth to it. Her email was short and simple – she asked, “ Is the MSG allergy a myth?” Science Has The Final Word
According to virtually all published scientific studies done over the last 20 years, the answer is a resounding ‘
No‘. In controlled tests with people who claim to have an allergy, the studies confirm that MSG in normal concentrations has no effect on the overwhelming majority of people.
A study done by Dr. Nicholas Maragakis and Dr. Jeffrey Rothstein posted in the Journal of Neurology called “Glutamate Transporters in Neurologic Disease”, found no connection to claims of neurological damage or migraines from even large quantities of MSG.
Yet another study by Dr. Stevenson called “Monosodium glutamate and asthma” (J. Nutr. 130: 1067S-1073S) found no connection with MSG increasing or worsening asthma.
And most recently last year, an article in the medical journal Clinical & Experimental Allergy reported that after more than a decade of study, no connection between MSG and allergies were found.
How did the MSG myth begin?
It largely began when a Chinese-American physician wrote a letter to The New England Journal of Medicine and said that he had experienced “numbness, palpitations and weakness” for 2 hours after eating at a Chinese restaurant in the US. He wondered whether the MSG used by cooks here might be to blame. Because China, at the time, rarely used MSG in their dishes. The consequences of the letter were immediate and large in scale. MSG, a common flavor enhancer and preservative with widespread use since the 1950s, was even tagged as a toxin. It was removed from most products and driven underground, used only in natural and whole foods.
In the mid 1970s, MSG worked it’s way back onto supermarket shelves, under assumed names: hydrolyzed proteins, yeast extracts, protein concentrates and other additives that were not labeled as MSG. But according to nutritionists and the United States Department of Agriculture, are essentially the same thing: synthetically produced glutamates.
The continuance of the Chinese restaurant syndrome myth is certainly fashionable in contemporary Anglo-American culture. It’s a failure of our educational systems to not teach people the difference between science and myth.
Bonus Fact: MSG occurs naturally in many foods. It can be found in most meats, wheat, spinach, corn, tomatoes and milk. | 2,769 | 1,453 | 0.000711 |
warc | 201704 | You’ve probably heard the phrase on television, seen it in a magazine ad or even contained within the title of a James Bond movie. Of course, we’re talking about the phrase, “
A diamond is forever“. But where did this phrase originate? More importantly, is it true? Does a diamond really last forever? Origin Of The Phrase
Until the late 1800s, diamonds were incredibly scarce with the total world production hovering around a few pounds per year. At the time, diamonds were mainly found in the jungles of Brazil and in a few key riverbeds in India in quantities not really suitable for large scale mining operations. All of this would change in 1867 when massive deposits of diamonds were discovered in South Africa. The world’s diamond production increased more than tenfold in the following decade.
Due to their rarity at the time, diamonds were incredibly valuable. If these newly discovered diamond mines led to the mass production flooding the market, then the price of a diamond would drop significantly due to supply and demand. So the largest mining company at the time strictly controlled the distribution, and in 1947, devised a way to keep people from reselling the diamonds they already had; tie it in to institution of marriage, matrimony, and love.
At the time, the general public believed diamonds were a luxury for the ultra-wealthy. Most women would rather have their future husbands spending money on a new family car, down payment for a house or appliances for their household — anything but jewelry. An advertising agency contracted by De Beers (N.W. Ayer & Son) embarked on a massive campaign to change that image. They went about convincing people that if you were getting married, you had to have a diamond engagement ring. They were so successful that their manufactured tradition still persists to this day.
Coined by Frances Gerety, the slogan “
A diamond is forever” meant that their diamonds represented your eternal love and affection for your significant other. They became the embodiment of a person’s commitment to one another which helped to keep people from reselling them. And so, the engagement ring which had been falling out of popularity due to the great depression saw a renewed vigor. By 1951, 80% of brides in America had a diamond engagement ring and that percentage has stayed somewhat consistent ever since. So Does A Diamond Actually Last Forever?
The
short answer is “yes”. On timescales that humans are familiar with, a diamond will last practically forever. Diamonds are an allotrope of carbon and their atoms are aligned in a cubic lattice which is called a diamond cubic. This configuration is considered “metastable”. A diamond’s molecular structure is incredibly robust and unless the diamond gets really, really hot, it will retain its structure indefinitely.
The
long answer is a bit more tricky. On timescales that are beyond our comprehension, things play out a bit differently for diamonds. Eventually, all things degrade and decay due to entropy. Diamonds are not immune to this process as they eventually degrade into graphite. That’s right, diamonds decay into the same substance that is in the middle of your #2 pencil. Think of the process like a huge block of ice in the center of a freezer where the temperature is only one billionth of a degree above freezing. While the block of ice would melt eventually, it would take an unimaginably long time. A small diamond, like the kind found in an standard size engagement ring, would take billions of years or more to totally convert itself into graphite. While diamonds don’t technically last forever, they will outlast us, our planet and perhaps most of the universe. Bonus Fact: The first diamond discovered in South Africa is called the Eureka Diamond. It weighed 21.25 carats before it was cut into a 10.73-carat cushion-shaped brilliant. Its discovery led to the world’s first diamond rush. De Beers purchased the diamond in 1967 and donated it to the South African people. The diamond is currently on display at the Mine Museum in Kimberley, South Africa. References:Evans, T. (1964). “A Study of the Transformation of Diamond to Graphite”. Proceedings of the Royal Society A 277 (1369): 260–269.Freeman, C. J. ; Field, J. E. (1981). “Strength and Fracture Properties of Diamond“. Philosophical Magazine A (Taylor and Francis Ltd) 43 (3): 595–618.Hazen, R. M (1999). The diamond makers. Cambridge University Press.Pierson, Hugh O. (1993). Handbook of carbon, graphite, diamond, and fullerenes: properties, processing, and applications. William Andrew.Williams, Fred. The diamond mines of South Africa. B. F. Buck & company. pp. 117–120. | 4,786 | 2,382 | 0.000432 |
warc | 201704 | Filed under: Domestic Policy, Intelligence, Law, National Security | Tags: Clear Speech/ Clear Thought, Euphemisms Gone Amok, George Orwell's 1984
(From Peter Kirsanow at National Review)
“It’s not amnesty. It is an exercise of discretion.”
It’s not a terrorist attack. It’s a man-caused disaster.
It’s not a global war on terror. It’s an overseas contingency operation.
It’s not the Ft. Hood massacre. It’s an instance of workplace violence.
It’s not a war. It’s a kinetic military operation.
It’s not a mandate. It’s a compromise.
It’s not taxing and spending. It’s an investment.
It’s not a a public-sector boondoggle. It’s a stimulus.
It’s not a duck. It’s . . .
Filed under: Domestic Policy, Heartwarming, Humor | Tags: Happy Father's Day, Remember Yours, Remembering Mine
Small boy’s definition of Father’s Day: It’s just like Mother’s Day only you don’t spend so much. – Anonymous
It is a wise child that knows its own father, and an unusual one that unreservedly approves of him. -Mark Twain
Spread the diaper in the position of the diamond with you at bat. Then fold second base down to home and set the baby on the pitcher’s mound. Put first base and third together, bring up home plate and pin the three together. Of course, in case of rain, you gotta call the game and start all over again. -Jimmy Piersall
My father used to play with my brother and me in the yard. Mother would come out and say, “You’re tearing up the grass.” “We’re not raising grass,” Dad would reply. “We’re raising boys.” -Harmon Killebrew
You don’t have to deserve your mother’s love. You have to deserve your father’s. He’s more particular.-Robert Frost
(h/t: Sippican Cottage)
Filed under: Capitalism, Economy, Freedom, Politics | Tags: Notable & Quotable, Nuggets of Wisdom, Thoughts for the Day
People in government will always try to help those who are powerful at the expense of those who might become so. What-is can always yield influence that what-might-be cannot match, regardless of any campaign finance laws that may be in place. The power of what-is made the abolition of slavery— by the 1780s widely seen as immoral and inefficient — politically impossible. Indeed, what-is was able to force a provision in the new Constitution that counted the disenfranchised and powerless slaves at three-fifths their actual numbers for determining the distribution of seats in Congress, greatly increasing the political power of the states with large slave populations.
— An Empire of Wealth, John Steele Gordon
But intellectuals not only want to think well of themselves, they want to be important. The attraction of ideology is that it offers a simple principle, or a few simple principles, by which to understand the world; and, of course it offers the prospect of power to those who know and wield those principles with the greatest facility. It seems to me that inside every Marxist Western intellectual there has been a Stalin trying to get out.
— preface to Last Exit to Utopia, Anthony Daniels
To change our fate, the best possible solution is real reform that improves incentives and inspires confidence — world’s difference from today’s sterile debate about whether a conspicuous short-term deficit encourages or inhibits recovery. Fed Governor Kevin Warsh put it nicely in a speech in Atlanta this week, when he cited veteran Washington economist Charles Schulze to the effect that “it is not the wolf at the door but the termites in the walls that require attention. Tackle the termites and jobs and growth will return.”
— “The Obama Depression,” Holman Jenkins Jr. 6/30/10 | 3,852 | 1,956 | 0.000551 |
warc | 201704 | David Cameron has told the cabinet that a series of blockages, ranging from restrictive planning laws to the “gold-plating” of EU directives, are holding back economic growth.
In a sign of the government’s nerves about Britain’s slow rate of economic growth, the prime minister devoted almost the entire cabinet meeting on Tuesday to discussing the implemention of last year’s growth plan. This was published alongside the budget last March.
The prime minister’s spokesman said: “It was an unusual cabinet today in that it essentially had one item on the agenda which was economic growth. Rather than being a policy discussion this was a discussion about implementation and removing blockages to delivery.”
George Osborne, who will deliver his third budget on 21 March, led the discussion which identified three key areas which are slowing growth:
• Regulation, including the gold-plating of EU directives.
• Over-restrictive planning laws.
• Finance for business as the world copes with what No 10 described as an “impaired banking system”.
As banks rebuild their capital positions, the amount of credit feeding into the economy has slowed. Osborne will give an update on his plans to address this through credit easing.
The prime minister’s spokesman said: “It is very easy for governments to unveil and announce new policy initiatives. What is much more difficult is implementation. Some of the issues that are being addressed through the plan for growth and were discussed at cabinet today – the weight of regulation on businesses, the problems with the planning system, the tendency for EU directives to be gold plated in the way they are implemented in this country – are issues that have been long debated and looked at by successive governments. But they require real political will and pressure to make a difference.”
The spokesman said ministers would be urging officials to challenge a tendency to “err on the side of caution” and to take a more pragmatic approach to EU directives. Ministers believe officials have a tendency to over-interpret the measures and to place overly restrictive burdens on business when they introduce them in the UK.
“We are certainly concerned about the level of regulation and the impact of regulation on businesses,” the spokesman said. “By having a one in, one out policy on regulation we are seeking to bear down on the level of regulation whether it comes from Brussels or Westminster.”
The special cabinet session shows ministers are nervous about the slow recovery. While ministers believe the government has won reasonable support for cutting the deficit, there are concerns that Labour is winning a hearing for its charge that the coalition has an inadequate plan for growth.
The spokesman said: “[We are] sticking firmly to our plans to reduce the deficit but it also means a relentless focus on growth and measures to support growth. There has been good progress on implementing the measures set out in the plan for growth a year ago. But today was an opportunity to see where we can move faster on implementation and see where we can push forward even faster. | 3,251 | 1,475 | 0.000708 |
warc | 201704 | January’s jobs report was disappointing as employers only managed to add 113,000 jobs in the month despite expectations of 185,000. Following suit, the narrower data sets released were largely bearish for the restaurant industry. Employment growth across the youngest two cohorts slowed on a sequential basis, suggesting that sales at QSR chains could remain light in the coming months. Furthermore, employment growth in the Full-Service, Limited-Service, and Leisure & Hospitality categories continues to decelerate from its mid-2013 highs.
Below, we discuss employment by age and restaurant industry employment. These serve as proxies for demand and operator confidence, respectively, in our models.
Employment by Age (demand)
Employment growth by age came in mixed in January as the 20-24 YOA cohort saw growth decelerate to +242 bps from +277 bps in December, the 25-34 YOA cohort saw growth decelerate to +19 bps from +149 bps in December, the 35-44 YOA cohort saw growth accelerate to +184 bps from +73 bps in December, the 45-54 YOA cohort saw growth slowing decelerate to -52 bps from -87 bps in December, and the 55-64 YOA cohort saw growth accelerate to +76 bps from +52 bps in December.
Employment by age is an important metric for the restaurant industry. Given the discretionary nature of casual dining expenditure, and the highly competitive nature of the industry, we infer that sustained employment growth in core demographics is necessary for continued comp growth in the absence of new unit growth or income per capita growth. The sequential improvement in the 35-44, 45-54, and 55-64 YOA cohorts is, on the margin, bullish for the casual dining industry.
Within the QSR segment, we continue to find that the majority of management teams we track consistently highlight the importance of employment growth to the success of their business – particularly growth in the younger cohorts. The sequential deceleration in the 20-24 and 25-34 YOA cohorts suggests that demand for quick-service and fast casual restaurants could be waning.
Restaurant Industry Employment (confidence)
The Leisure & Hospitality employment data, which leads the narrower food service by one month, suggests that employment growth in the food service industry decelerated -17 bps sequentially in January. That being said, this category registered a month-over-month increase of +24K jobs (second chart below).
The narrower restaurant-focused data sets are also bearish for the restaurant industry. Both Full-Service and Limited-Service employment growth decelerated sequentially in December. Growth across all three categories has been decelerating since mid-2013.
Sequential Moves
Leisure & Hospitality: Y/Y employment growth at +3.09% in January, down -17 bps versus October
Full-Service: Y/Y employment growth at +3.17% in December, down -47 bps versus November
Limited-Service: Y/Y employment growth at +4.05% in December, down -37 bps versus September
Howard Penney
Managing Director | 3,004 | 1,296 | 0.000778 |
warc | 201704 | This is a test using Dragon NaturallySpeaking to dictate a blog entry.
Language recognition technology has been seen as promising as long as I can remember. When I started studying in the United States in 1990, one of my fellow students came from IBM, where she had worked with language recognition technology for 12 years. Six years later, I purchased my first language recognition system myself, IBM’s ViaVoice. It cost the whopping sum of $ 89, and you had to pause between words when you dictated. I used it for a few weeks, but the slow pace of dictation and the frequent errors, partially a result of not having enough computer, was frustrating.
Now, 10 years later, I read about Dragon NaturallySpeaking on Kevin Kelly’s blog Cool Tools. Apparently, language recognition has progress, thanks to more powerful computers and better software.
I have now fiddled with Dragoan NaturallySpeaking for about an hour, and I must say some progress has been made. You can now speak rapidly and fluently, and there is an autopunctuation feature, which inserts commas and periods as best as it can. It kind of works. I could see myself using this for instance to record speeches I give on telephone conferences, or to dictate blog entries and essays if my carpal tunnel syndrome flares up again, a friend of mine has used language recognition technology to meet into the computer long reams of text and data without having to type them.
Nevertheless, the technology still has a way to go before it can do it very hard task of taking dictation. Correcting errors is rather cumbersome, you have to select words, and then laboriously tell the computer what you want to do with them. Also, the system has problems interpreting what I say occasionally. For instance, I tried to say laboriously, and it came out labor asleep. Hopefully, dictation will do for my diction what Graffiti did for my handwriting — train me to make the computer recognize it.
Whether this works or not remains to be seen. I will report back when I have learned how to insert a Colón cola call on…. | 2,094 | 1,090 | 0.000932 |
warc | 201704 | If you’re anything like us, your email processes look something like this…
Let’s cover the basics: a requestor is someone who is…you guessed it…requesting something from a service provider. A service provider is… yep, right again!…someone within your organization that provides a service (which is basically everyone). And the request process probably goes something like this:
An employee requests company’s USB drives that have the logo printed on them for a conference he’s attending in a week. Because he doesn’t know who the proper person is to direct this request, the IT service desk receives his email. The service desk directs the requestor’s email to their manager to make sure it’s okay. The requestor’s manager sees it, and she double checks the request with the requestor. The requestor says that yes, he did indeed ask for the USB drives. The manager then remembers that this is a marketing request and asks a marketing executive at the company, if it’s okay that they take some USB drives to the conference for branding. The marketing executive approves the idea and replies to her email. The IT service desk then circles back to the manager to confirm the request is taken care of and that they can close this random ticket.
While this process may not necessarily be that time consuming (or, let’s be real, it could be depending on how often people in your company check their email during the day), but seven emails floating around? Just for a simple request?
There’s far too many emails floating around for something that, in an ideal world, would be a simple conversation. And that’s where the service catalog comes in.
Through the service catalog that the company has, the provider is able to see the request — but only after the service catalog recognizes the type of request that the requester has submitted and knows that it will need the approval of the requester’s manager and the executive above her. After it gets all of the approvals needed in the workflow, it will then notify the
correct service provider, who will see the permissions have been fulfilled and they can prepare the USB drives to the requester. Easier, seamless, and automated — all without the need for email. | 2,312 | 1,063 | 0.000987 |
warc | 201704 | As part of its regular monitoring of the corporate sector in Southeast Asia, the World Bank economic team I am part of in Thailand has been working on a short case study of supply chains of Japanese multinational companies (MNCs) in the electrical and electronics (E&E) industry. We wanted to hear directly from firms about how the crisis affected them, how they were able to adjust so quickly to the drop in demand, what the rebound looked like, and what were the prospects going forward to upgrade along the value chain. I have learned a great deal from these interviews, and have become convinced that supply chains are central to understanding the current crisis in Thailand and East Asia more generally.
Some facts: the crisis had a disproportionate impact on manufacturing. In Thailand, manufacturing represents about 40 percent of GDP, but contractions in manufacturing value added have accounted for about 75 percent of the contraction of headline GDP.
Within manufacturing, the auto and E&E industries account for the bulk of the contraction. Most of the output in those industries is exported, and more than three-fourths of the decline in Thai exports during the crisis was due to falls in shipments from the auto and E&E industries. My conclusion is that the magnitude of the crisis in Thailand has been driven primarily by these two industries. | 1,361 | 714 | 0.001405 |
warc | 201704 | Oct. 16, 2013 - Trucks Continue to Pick Up All Flood Debris Reported to the City as of Oct. 14 Media Contacts: Kara Mertz, Local Environmental Action Division, 303-441-3153 Sarah Huntley, Media Relations, 303-441-3155 Trucks continue to pick up all flood debris reported to the city as of Oct. 14; could take until the end of the week for solid materials and longer for mud, silt and dirt
The City of Boulder is in the process of completing pickup of all flood debris that was reported to the city as of Monday, Oct. 14.
The curbside collection of damaged household items, carpet, drywall and all other materials except for dirt, mud and silt, is expected to be completed by Saturday, Oct. 19. Due to the logistics of hauling heavy organic material and collecting dirt, mud and silt from residential areas, parks and multi-use paths, trucks are expected to continue this limited scope of work for several more weeks.
Residents who did not contact the city by Monday, Oct. 14 may no longer take advantage of the curbside collection service and must dispose of flood debris on their own or with the help of a contractor. Residents may continue to dispose of debris at Western Disposal’s transfer station, but they will be required to pay the associated fees.
“We want residents to understand that while they will continue to see Swingle trucks in their neighborhoods fulfilling the orders that were placed before Monday’s deadline, these crews are no longer tasked with continuing to pick up unreported piles,” said Kara Mertz of the city’s Local Environmental Action Division. “The responsibility for unreported flood debris has shifted back to the private property owner.”
Denver-based collection contractor Swingle estimates that its crews have serviced more than 10,000 households since Sept. 26, when collection first began. As of Monday, Oct. 14, 4,463 tons of debris and sediment had been collected through the flood debris curbside pickup program. The city has received positive feedback about the limited-time emergency service.
“It was a relief to see the flood debris gone, though it was also a final goodbye for things we would have rather saved,” said resident Susan McLean in correspondence with the city. “Thank you for all you and others are doing to help speed the recovery.”
Residents who met the request deadline must comply with the same guidelines that have been in place since the pickups began. Specifically, they are asked to make sure their debris is on public streets or right of ways. Materials must be within 10 feet of the curb, avoiding sidewalks if possible, and should not be in bike lanes or in locations that may block storm drains.
In order for the city to receive FEMA assistance for the cost of debris removal, curbside pickup is limited to debris created by the storm event of Sept. 11 through Sept. 15. FEMA requirements include:
Storm-related debris only; tree branches that broke from wind this past week cannot be accepted as part of this collection Debris should not be placed in plastic trash bags If debris is already in plastic bags, these bags must be opened to allow for verification that they contain only storm debris Do not place regular household trash with flood debris Debris must be placed on public property. Collection trucks are not permitted to go onto private or commercial property, which includes driveways, areas inside fences, and private streets inside mobile home parks and large apartment complexes.
Electronics and household hazardous wastes are NOT included in curbside collection.
Electronics may be taken to Eco-Cycle’s Center for Hard to Recycle Materials (CHaRM) drop off site at 5030 Old Pearl St. or Western Disposal for recycling. For more information, visit www.ecocycle.org/charm or www.westerndisposal.com.
Household hazardous waste such as paint, pesticides and chemicals must be taken to the Hazardous Materials Management Facility at 1901 63rd St. It is located behind the Boulder County Recycling Facility.
Residents with questions or concerns may contact the city at 720-564-2196 or at flooddebris@bouldercolorado.gov. | 4,175 | 1,952 | 0.000522 |
warc | 201704 | Jay has been afraid of dogs since he was bitten as a child. When he sees a dog, it sets off an intense reaction that involves both the nervous and endocrine systems. This is called the â??fight or flightâ? reaction because it prepares the person to fight off the danger or to run away.
Jay sees a dog and the visual signal is transmitted by neurons using (a)____ ___ signals inside the neurons and using chemicals called (b)__neurotransmitters__ between neurons. The signal arrives at and is processed in the (c)_occipital_ lobe of the brainâ??s cerebral cortex. A signal is also sent to a bean-sized central brain structure known as the (d)___pituitary gland___ which responds to strong emotions. Another brain structure, the hypothalamus, sends a signal to an endocrine gland called the (e)__________ that releases a hormone that in turn stimulates other endocrine glands. At the same time, the hypothalamus activates a branch of the peripheral nervous system known as the (f)___________ that increases heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing rate. Jay reacts by running away. To accomplish this, a signal is sent from the (g)________ lobe of the cerebral cortex through the (h)_______ branch of the peripheral nervous system to Jayâ??s leg muscles. Once Jay is safely away from the dog, his brain signals all systems to return to normal through the (i)_______ branch of the peripheral nervous system. Jay thinks about how lucky he was and plans what he will do next using the (j) _______ lobe of his cerebral cortex.
a.
e. f. g. h. i. j. Solution Preview
d should be amygdala, not the pituitary gland
a. action potential (your terminology may be different, but it is electric signals, ...
What kinds of changes occur in the brain that signal to the endocrine system during the fight or flight response? This question is answered in depth in the solution. | 1,887 | 915 | 0.001109 |
warc | 201704 | On another website, gaia.com, Siona asked a question the other day. She always asks Questions and Reflections designed to make us think. In fact this is how she says it:
Every day, we offer an inquiry designed to push you to think deeply about those things that matter most. We’ll encourage you to continue to discover and follow your calling, to explore and connect with yourself, to envision and attain your goals, and to craft, passionately, your own extraordinary and unique life.
The question of the day was this:
What do you love about nature? What about the natural world appeals to or calls to or nurtures you?
So how would you answer that question?
I have sat with that question for at least three days, pondering it. Turning it over and over, around and around. You might think that it would be an easy question to answer. Not so!! I have thought about this one upside down and all around and am barely getting ’round to a satisfactory answer, one that seems to feel the most like “the truth”. (Don’t get me going on what is “the truth”! That’s another essay for another day…or maybe not…)
As I read through the comments about nature, it seemed like everyone likes something different. You would think it might be more similar. I would have thought people would say “I like nature because it’s beautiful and makes me feel more connected spiritually” or something like that. And some people did say that. But there are so very very many reasons we humans feel connected to nature, drawn to her, inspired to open our doors and spend time in the elements.
I guess I love the surprises of the natural world. The way nature enthralls with amazements like strange plants, creatures, roots and rocks. There are eyes looking out of inanimate objects like trees, staring at us with all-knowing intelligence. You can’t walk six steps without something intriguing appearing. This can be anything from the still shimmer of sunset against the lake or the tiniest insect crawling against a fern.
Whether you’re inside or outside, you can still be surprised every moment if you cease your torrent of habitual thinking and just observe. You can be just as surprised and amazed by the expression on a loved ones face, a wrinkle, the gleam on a pen, the way the calculator clicks. You can be enchanted by the mix of indoors and nature: the angle of the sun against the wood floor, the breeze wafting through the open window.
Turning the question around:
what about nature do you not really like as well? Hmmm….well, I do not like mosquitoes and black flies nipping and biting and drawing blood. I have learned to respect that they are a part of nature, and to keep moving when they come out in hoards, but they are sometimes challenging. I suppose we can add wildfires, tornadoes, blizzards and hurricanes to the list of natural events which can sometimes disturb equanimity. And large animals in close proximity…like bears and moose and wolves…I would prefer a small amount of distance between us. Just enough for safety.
Nature has the ability to bring many people closer to their sense of the divine, of sacredness, of spirituality. Perhaps it’s the beauty, the openness, the expansiveness. For me, almost always doing things backwards, I found the sacred deep within…and am now learning to see it reflected outward into the natural world. That has been a big part of the gift of this year.
What do YOU love about nature? How would you answer that question? | 3,566 | 1,751 | 0.00059 |
warc | 201704 | Get inspired:
By this point in the course, I hope you have the sense that most phenomena in nature are nonlinear, from the beating of a heart to the dynamics of the climate to fluid flow and much more. This unit exposes you to some of the fundamental ideas of analyzing nonlinear systems, which usually have no closed-form solution.
By the end of this lesson, you should be able to: Compute fixed points, null clines, and phase portraits of phase plane systems. Calculate stability of fixed points in nonlinear systems. Connect information about fixed points in nonlinear systems and information about those points in linearized systems. Before class, please: In class, we will: After class, please: Do post-class problems. | 727 | 402 | 0.002501 |
warc | 201704 | Get inspired:
Not all differential equations have solutions that can be expressed in terms of elementary functions that you learn in calculus. Some of the most intriguing examples are the Bessel functions, which are defined as the solutions to the differential equation $$x^2 y” + xy’ + (x^2 – alpha^2)y = 0$$, where $$alpha$$ is a parameter. These functions are most easily expressed as a power series. Bessel functions describe, among other things, the beautiful vibration patterns of circular drums.
By the end of this lesson, you should be able to: Compute and explain the significance of radius and interval of convergence – [movie] [notes] Perform algebraic operations on power series – [movie] [notes] Determine if a point is an ordinary point of a differential equation – [movie] [notes] Solve linear differential equations via power series near ordinary points – [movie not available — read notes and textbook] [notes] Before class: Read Polking, Boggess and Arnold, Sections 11.1 and 11.2. Watch pencasts (linked above). CheckYourself. In class: After class, please: Do post-class problems. | 1,144 | 616 | 0.001688 |
warc | 201704 | Security is the single biggest thing keeping IT professionals from adopting public cloud computing and it’s something we’re addressing head on here at ScaleXtreme.
Today we’re announcing patch management for the public cloud. It’s available now for all ScaleXtreme users.
We worked closely with a select group of customers to ensure the solution works great and are confident that you’ll be impressed with this new functionality.
Patching is the foundation of strong digital security. It prevents malicious hackers and data thieves from penetrating your servers and stealing important information. What’s more, not addressing publicly known issues with operating systems may result in substantial legal liability.
Patch management from ScaleXtreme will help you begin to apply the same enterprise-level security you’ve come to expect inside the firewall to all the machines you’ve got running outside in the public cloud.
ScaleXtreme scans your servers for known vulnerabilities, identifies what needs fixing and gives you the tools to automatically execute the fixes. It’s that simple: visibility, reporting and remediation all in one place.
Read More | 1,205 | 643 | 0.001627 |
warc | 201704 | Legal Approvals Are Killing Brand Newsrooms. Here’s How to Get Past ThemBy John Hazard September 2nd, 2014
When a brand publishes a story, the process usually goes something like this:
Marketing teams edit for voice, style, and compliance with industry regulations, licensing, avoiding slander, etc. → a lawyer reads the story, notifies the preceding stages which elements are noncompliant, and requests revisions → the writer, artist, editor, and marketing teams make revisions and resubmit → repeat until compliance is satisfied.
That process takes days, if not weeks or (sadly)
months.
But when a media company publishes a story, it looks something like this: Editor presses publish. The process takes hours, even minutes or seconds when necessary.
It’s obvious from these two scenarios that media companies have fewer concerns about compliance and defamation. One would even imagine that unlike brand publishers, media companies cannot be sued for what they publish.
Right?
While it’s true that the nature of brand publishing sets a higher bar for compliance and introduces some complexities that media companies do not encounter, those companies also benefit from having well-established compliance structures in place. There’s no reason brand publishers can’t do the same.
The secret? Get the lawyers out of the editorial process. At media companies, the role of the legal department is to set the rules of compliance at the outset, establish a structure to ensure compliance, monitor it to ensure it’s functioning, and set contingencies when events require deeper review. In other words, write the rules once and write hundreds of stories that follow the rules. The bar is set higher for brand publishers, but that same approach ensures compliance regardless of where the bar is set.
Document it
The first goal for efficient compliance is to actually write the rules and distribute them so everyone is on the same page from the beginning of the process. As a brand, it’s key to get the rules in the hands of the writers and artists producing your content so they can deliver compliant work from day one. For brand publishers, there are three primary compliance issues to enforce:
False advertising Guidance Licensing False advertising
The regulation here is the Unfair Claims–Deceptive Practices Act (UCDP). This basically means content cannot mislead readers about your products or services or those of competitors. The laws (in addition to the UCDP, which is administered by the FTC, each state has its own law regulating false and misleading advertising) will consider whether your stories could be interpreted by readers as making an untrue claim. The facts are fairly black and white, and it’s easy to craft guidelines for writers that can make the issue all but disappear. Some of the guardrails:
Be honest, be factual. Don’t lie, don’t exaggerate. This is common sense. Talk about your product or service as little as possible. Good content marketing crafts a narrative around the issues faced by the audience, which isn’t very inclined to trust claims about your own product anyway. Unless you must, don’t make promises or claims. There are very few good reasons to make a product claim in content marketing. If you do, be certain it can be explicitly validated.
Certain industries, such healthcare and financial services, face additional regulations governing claims and dissemination of information from regulators like the FDA, and publicly traded companies fall under the SEC’s domain.
Guidance
When lawyers write columns or articles, they begin and end by making it clear that the written piece does not constitute legal advice. Some even begin conversations with their spouses and children the same way. Overkill? Yes, but content marketers should follow their lead by avoid overly specific guidance. Content as advice leaves brands vulnerable to and responsible for the potential outcomes if readers follow that advice: “Your article said I should invest in frozen concentrated orange juice, and now I’m broke.”
The solution isn’t to have an attorney read every article. Instead, just don’t produce articles that provide specific instruction. Good stories offer insight into an issue and present options and results without being prescriptive.
Licensing
Media companies have it easy when it comes to licensing. The rules in most cases allow reporters and photographers to record and publish—or broadcast—anything they see or hear. The jury is still out on whether brand publishing constitutes journalism or just plain marketing. At Contently, we believe it is the latter; we think brands need permission to use a person’s likeness or licensed entities in pursuit of marketing. The rules here are the same as in advertising: If you quote someone in a story, get their permission; if you mention a third-party organization, get its permission; if a photo contains a licensed entity—like artwork, logos, or even a product—get permission from the copyright owner. And document it.
Simple, repeatable, auditable
None of these rules requires sophisticated review. Content creators can follow simple guidelines to steer clear of the three major risks, and editors and marketing reviewers can enforce the rules. The compliance comes in from the monitoring and auditing inherent in any worthy CMS. By capturing every stage of creation and revision, all reviewers are accountable and monitors can be put in place to track compliance and correct problem stages. Brand publishers face a more complex compliance environment than media organizations, but they need not have an equally complex review process.
Illustration by Tara Jacoby for Contently
Image by Tara Jacoby
Note: This information in this article is not intended to constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon in lieu of consultation with appropriate legal advisors. | 6,010 | 2,772 | 0.000371 |
warc | 201704 | On “Seven More Years of Hard Times?”
September 20, 2010 Leave a comment
Cogent conclusion of an interesting (somewhat technical) review of some important recent research on periods of economic recession and financial crises. In short, we are in this for the long haul.
It is not true that if you break a mirror, you will have seven years’ bad luck. That is a superstition. But if you allow a financial market to spin wildly until it breaks down, it really does seem that you run the risk of years of economic malaise. That is a historical pattern. | 567 | 368 | 0.002817 |
warc | 201704 | Publications Search - Abstract View
Title: Associations between smoking and adenocarcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas of the uterine cervix (United States). Authors: Lacey JV Jr, Frisch M, Brinton LA, Abbas FM, Barnes WA, Gravitt PE, Greenberg MD, Greene SM, Hadjimichael OC, McGowan L, Mortel R, Schwartz PE, Zaino RJ, Hildesheim A Journal: Cancer Causes Control Date: 2001 Feb Branches: MEB PubMed ID: 11246844 PMC ID: not available Abstract: OBJECTIVES: Few studies of smoking and cervical carcinoma have addressed the rare cervical adenocarcinomas or used DNA-based tests to control for human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. METHODS: This multicenter case-control study included 124 adenocarcinoma cases, 307 community controls (matched on age, race, and residence to adenocarcinoma cases), and 139 squamous carcinoma cases (matched on age, diagnosis date, clinic, and disease stage to adenocarcinoma cases). Participants completed risk-factor interviews and volunteered cervical samples for PCR-based HPV testing. Polychotomous logistic regression generated adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for both histologic types. RESULTS: Eighteen percent of adenocarcinoma cases, 43% of squamous carcinoma cases, and 22% of controls were current smokers. After control for HPV and other questionnaire data, adenocarcinomas were consistently inversely associated with smoking (e.g. current: OR = 0.6, 95% CI 0.3-1.1; > or = 1 pack per day: OR = 0.7, 95% CI 0.4-1.3), while squamous carcinomas were positively associated with smoking (e.g. current: OR = 1.6, 95% CI 0.9-2.9; > or = 1 pack per day: OR = 1.8, 95% CI 1.0-3.3). Results in analyses restricted to HPV-positive controls were similar. CONCLUSION: Smoking has opposite associations with cervical adenocarcinomas and squamous carcinomas. Although both histologic types are caused by HPV and arise in the cervix, etiologic co-factors for these tumors may differ. | 1,946 | 1,037 | 0.000966 |
warc | 201704 | Enter a search term such as “mobile analytics” or browse our content using the filters above.
That’s not only a poor Scrabble score but we also couldn’t find any results matching“”.
Check your spelling or try broadening your search.
Sorry about this, there is a problem with our search at the moment.
Please try again later. The robots are coming for jobs, and many who believe that they're exempt from the much ballyhooed robot job apocalypse might have reason to be far more worried.
That includes marketers.
Though consultants and speakers have been referring to 'data as the new oil' for some time, the phrase has only recently become apt.
The price of oil has fallen since mid-2014 and last year the data industry eclipsed oil revenues ($7.6tn vs $6.4tn).
So, what is the state of customer journey analysis in marketing and ecommerce - how far has the revolution come?
Artificial intelligence (see the Wikipedia definition), specifically machine learning, is an increasingly integral part of many industries, including marketing.
Here are a whole bunch of case studies and use cases, as a complete primer for AI in our industry.
Two of the year's biggest shopping days took place last week.
Here are the Thanksgiving and Black Friday sales stats you need to know.
Retailers and consumers may be gearing up for two of the most important shopping days in the holiday shopping season, but this year, Black Friday and Cyber Monday are more ceremonial than ever. Content marketing can be a tricky area for brands whose products or services are not traditionally seen as ‘sexy.’ But IBM has turned that idea on its head and produced some of the most exciting content I’ve seen in any industry.
In this post I’m going to take a look at some of the best examples of IBM’s content, and why I think this company’s strategy is so effective.
With apologies for the inflammatory headline, marketing is fooling itself about customer experience.
In research over the last two years, we’ve seen a consistent over-estimation of how good things are and the results to come.
A few weeks ago, I said goodbye to my 34 year-old self with the last high-five I’ll ever be legally allowed to give, and begrudgingly shook the age of 35 by the hand with a firm and mature grip.
It was a defining moment that also saw me exit the average user age of some of my favourite social networks (although for Snapchat I was already 15 years too late).
It's Friday, and as my colleague Ben Davis is busy with other tasks I've saddled up to takeover the internet statistics round up once again.
This week it includes customer data, Toyota's Twitter skills, mobile search, Christmas discounts, eBay, and other digital marketing goodness.
For more of the same, download the Econsultancy Internet Statistics Compendium...
I have written a lot about the opportunities of adopting an agile marketing approach.
However, it is quite hard to find many examples of this being practiced yet, particularly at any kind of scale, and even more particularly by organisations that are not start-ups. IBM is one such example and it is great to see B2B marketing leading the way here.
Ben Edwards is VP, Global Communications & Digital Marketing at IBM. He leads the company's global communications function, global advertising & media, brand strategy & design, digital strategy and IBM Marketing Labs.
Following is a transcript of an interview I did with him to understand IBM's thinking around agile marketing and how this is playing out in practice.
Snow Fall is a beautiful, interactive and immersive multimedia experience about the avalanche at Tunnel Creek in the US.
It was lovingly crafted by The New York Times in 2012 and was heralded as setting new standards in digital storytelling.
Seventeen months later, the publication’s internal innovation report was leaked. It points out that while projects such as Snow Fall are extremely popular, with more than 21m page views, they are not easily replicable.
Christmas 2013 proved to be a record-breaking period for several multichannel retailers as the trend for shopping online rather than in-store continued apace.
However for some brands the increase in online sales didn't necessarily translate to an increase in profits.
All these stats and more are rounded up in more detail below, including financial results from John Lewis and Debenhams, as well as data from IBM showing the rise in m-commerce... | 4,519 | 2,298 | 0.000446 |
warc | 201704 | Cerebral arteriovenous malformation
Cerebral arteriovenous malformation Large arteriovenous malformation of the parietal lobe Classification and external resources Specialty medical genetics ICD-10 Q28.2 ICD-9-CM 747.81 OMIM 108010 DiseasesDB 2224 MedlinePlus 000779 eMedicine neuro/21 article/252426 article/337220 MeSH D002538 Contents Signs and symptoms[edit]
The most frequently observed problems, related to an AVM, are headaches and seizures, backaches, neckaches and eventual nausea, as the coagulated blood makes its way down to be dissolved in the individual's spinal fluid. It is supposed that 15% of the population, at detection, have no symptoms at all.
[1] Other common symptoms are a pulsing noise in the head, progressive weakness and numbness and vision changes as well as debilitating, excruciating pain. [2] [3]
In serious cases, the blood vessels rupture and there is bleeding within the brain (intracranial hemorrhage). Nevertheless, in more than half of patients with AVM, hemorrhage is the first symptom.
[3] Symptoms due to bleeding include loss of consciousness, sudden and severe headache, nausea, vomiting, incontinence, and blurred vision, amongst others. [2] Impairments caused by local brain tissue damage on the bleed site are also possible, including seizure, one-sided weakness (hemiparesis), a loss of touch sensation on one side of the body and deficits in language processing (aphasia). [2] Minor bleeding can occur with no noticeable symptoms. Following the bleed's cessation, most AVM victims return to normal, after the blood vessel has had time to repair itself.
AVMs in certain critical locations may stop the circulation of the cerebrospinal fluid, causing accumulation of the fluid within the skull and giving rise to a clinical condition called hydrocephalus.
[3] A stiff neck can occur as the result of increased pressure within the skull and irritation of the meninges. Diagnosis[edit]
An AVM diagnosis is established by neuroimaging studies after a complete neurological and physical examination.
[3] [4] Three main techniques are used to visualize the brain and search for AVM: computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and cerebral angiography. [4] A CT scan of the head is usually performed first when the subject is symptomatic. It can suggest the approximate site of the bleed. [1] MRI is more sensitive than CT in the diagnosis of AVMs and provides better information about the exact location of the malformation. [4] More detailed pictures of the tangle of blood vessels that compose an AVM can be obtained by using radioactive agents injected into the blood stream. If a CT is used in conjunctiangiogram, this is called a computerized tomography angiogram; while, if MRI is used it is called magnetic resonance angiogram. [1] [4] The best images of an AVM are obtained through cerebral angiography. This procedure involves using a catheter, threaded through an artery up to the head, to deliver a contrast agent into the AVM. As the contrast agent flows through the AVM structure, a sequence of X-ray images are obtained. [4] Grading[edit]
A common method of grading cerebral AVMs is the Spetzler-Martin grade.
[5] This system was designed to assess the patient's risk of neurological deficit after open surgical resection (surgical morbidity), based on characteristics of the AVM itself. Based on this system, AVMs may be classified as grades 1 - 5. This system was not intended to characterize risk of hemorrhage.
AVM size Adjacent eloquent cortex Draining veins Under 3 cm = 1 Non-eloquent = 0 Superficial only = 0 3–6 cm = 2 Eloquent* = 1 Deep veins = 1 Over 6 cm = 3
"Eloquent cortex" is a name used by neurologists for areas of cortex that, if removed will result in loss of sensory processing or linguistic ability, minor paralysis, or paralysis.
The risk of post-surgical neurological deficit (difficulty with language, motor weakness, vision loss) increases with increasing Spetzler-Martin grade.
Pathophysiology[edit]
AVMs are an abnormal connection between the arteries and veins in the human brain. Arteriovenous malformations are most commonly of prenatal origin.
[6] The cause of AVMs remains unknown. [6] In a normal brain oxygen enriched blood from the heart travels in sequence through smaller blood vessels going from arteries, to arterioles and then capillaries. [6] Oxygen is removed in the latter vessel to be used by the brain. [6] After the oxygen is removed blood reaches venules and later veins which will take it back to the heart and lungs. [6] On the other hand, when there is an AVM blood goes directly from arteries to veins through the abnormal vessels disrupting the normal circulation of blood. [6] [7] Prognosis[edit]
The main risk is intracranial hemorrhage. This risk is difficult to quantify since many patients with asymptomatic AVMs will never come to medical attention. Small AVMs tend to bleed more often than do larger ones, the opposite of cerebral aneurysms.
[8] If a rupture or bleeding incident occurs, the blood may penetrate either into the brain tissue (cerebral hemorrhage) or into the subarachnoid space, which is located between the sheaths (meninges) surrounding the brain (subarachnoid hemorrhage). Bleeding may also extend into the ventricular system (intraventricular hemorrhage). Cerebral hemorrhage appears to be most common. [1] One long-term study (mean follow up greater than 20 years) of over 150 symptomatic AVMs (either presenting with bleeding or seizures) found the risk of cerebral hemorrhage to be approximately 4% per year, slightly higher than the 2-3% seen in other studies. [9] A simple, rough approximation of a patient's lifetime bleeding risk is 105 - (patient age in years). [10] This equation assumes a 3% yearly bleeding risk. For example, a healthy 30-year-old patient would have approximately a 75% lifetime risk of at least one bleeding event. Treatment[edit]
Treatment depends on the location and size of the AVM and whether there is bleeding or not.
[11]
The treatment in the case of sudden bleeding is focused on restoration of vital function. Anticonvulsant medications such as phenytoin are often used to control seizure; medications or procedures may be employed to relieve intracranial pressure. Eventually, curative treatment may be required to prevent recurrent hemorrhage. However, any type of intervention may also carry a risk of creating a neurological deficit.
Preventive treatment of as yet unruptured brain AVMs has been controversial, as several studies suggested favorable long-term outcome for unruptured AVM patients not undergoing intervention. The NIH-funded longitudinal ARUBA study ("A Randomized trial of Unruptured Brain AVMs) compares the risk of stroke and death in patients with preventive AVM eradication versus those followed without intervention.
[12] Interim results suggest that fewer strokes occur as long as patients with unruptured AVM do not undergo intervention. Because of the higher than expected event rate in the interventional arm of the ARUBA study, NIH/NINDS has stopped patient enrollment in April 2013, while continuing to follow all participants to determine whether the difference in stroke and death in the two arms changes over time. [13]
Surgical elimination of the blood vessels involved is the preferred curative treatment for many types of AVM.
[11] Surgery is performed by a neurosurgeon who temporarily removes part of the skull (craniotomy), separates the AVM from surrounding brain tissue, and resects the abnormal vessels. [11] While surgery can result in an immediate, complete removal of the AVM, risks exist depending on the size and the location of the malformation. The preferred treatment of Spetzler-Martin grade 1 and 2 AVMs in young, healthy patients is surgical resection due to the relatively small risk of neurological damage compared to the high lifetime risk of hemorrhage. Grade 3 AVMs may or may not be amenable to surgery. Grade 4 and 5 AVMs are not usually surgically treated. [14]
Radiosurgery has been widely used on small AVMs with considerable success. The Gamma Knife is an apparatus used to precisely apply a controlled radiation dosage to the volume of the brain occupied by the AVM. While this treatment does not require an incision and craniotomy (with their own inherent risks), three or more years may pass before the complete effects are known, during which time patients are at risk of bleeding.
[11] Complete obliteration of the AVM may or may not occur after several years, and repeat treatment may be needed. Radiosurgery is itself not without risk. In one large study, nine percent of patients had transient neurological symptoms, including headache, after radiosurgery for AVM. However, most symptoms resolved, and the long-term rate of neurological symptoms was 3.8%. [15]
Embolization is the occlusion of blood vessels most commonly with a glue-like substance introduced by a radiographically guided catheter.
[11] Such glue blocks the vessel and reduces blood flow into the AVM. [11] Embolization is frequently used as an adjunct to either surgery or radiation treatment. [11] Before other treatments it reduces the size of the AVM while during surgery it reduces the risk of bleeding. [11] However, embolization alone may completely obliterate some AVMs. In high flow intranidal fistula we can use balloon to reduce the flow so that embolization can be done safely. [16] Epidemiology[edit]
The annual new detection rate incidence of AVMs is approximately 1 per 100,000 a year. The point prevalence in adults is approximately 18 per 100,000.
[1] AVMs are more common in males than females, although in females pregnancy may start or worsen symptoms due the increase in blood flow and volume it usually brings. [17] Research directions[edit]
No randomized, controlled clinical trial has established a survival benefit for treating patients (either with open surgery or radiosurgery) with AVMs that have not yet bled.
[18] References[edit] Al-Shahi R, Warlow C (October 2001). "A systematic review of the frequency and prognosis of arteriovenous malformations of the brain in adults". Brain. 124(Pt 10): 1900–26. doi:10.1093/brain/124.10.1900. PMID 11571210. Retrieved 2010-05-18. Mayo Clinic staff (February 2009). "Brain AVM (arteriovenous malformation)-Symptoms". Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Retrieved 2010-05-18. David C. Dugdale; Daniel B. Hoch (October 2008). "Arteriovenous malformation - cerebral". ADAM. Retrieved 2010-05-18. Mayo Clinic staff (February 2009). "Brain AVM (arteriovenous malformation)-Tests and diagnosis". Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Retrieved 2010-05-18. Spetzler, R; Martin N (1986). "A proposed grading system for arteriovenous malformations". J Neurosurg. 65(4): 476–83. doi:10.3171/jns.1986.65.4.0476. PMID 3760956. Mayo Clinic staff (February 2009). "Brain AVM (arteriovenous malformation)-Causes". Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Retrieved 2010-05-30. Mouchtouris, Nikolaos; Jabbour, Pascal M; Starke, Robert M; Hasan, David M; Zanaty, Mario; Theofanis, Thana; Ding, Dale; Tjoumakaris, Stavropoula I; Dumont, Aaron S; Ghobrial, George M; Kung, David; Rosenwasser, Robert H; Chalouhi, Nohra (19 November 2014). "Biology of cerebral arteriovenous malformations with a focus on inflammation". Journal of Cerebral Blood Flow & Metabolism. 35(2): 167–175. doi:10.1038/jcbfm.2014.179. Crawford, PM; et al. (1986). "Arteriovenous malformations of the brain: natural history in unoperated patients". J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 49(1): 1–10. doi:10.1136/jnnp.49.1.1. PMC . PMID 3958721. Ondra, SL; et al. (1990). "The natural history of symptomatic arteriovenous malformations of the brain: A 24-year follow-up assessment". J Neurosurgery. 73(3): 387–391. doi:10.3171/jns.1990.73.3.0387. PMID 2384776. Greenberg, Mark (2010). Handbook of Neurosurgery (7th ed). Thieme. p. 1100. Mayo Clinic staff (February 2009). "Brain AVM (arteriovenous malformation)-Treatments and drugs". Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Retrieved 2010-05-18. "Official ARUBA study website (english)". Retrieved 2011-12-13. "Official interim results of ARUBA trial (english)". Retrieved 2013-05-13. Starke, RM; et al. (2009). "Treatment guidelines for cerebral arteriovenous malformation microsurgery". Br J Neurosurg. 23(4): 376–86. doi:10.1080/02688690902977662. PMID 19637008. Flickinger, JC; et al. (1998). "Analysis of neurological sequelae from radiosurgery of arteriovenous malformations: How location affects outcome". Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys. 40(2): 273–278. doi:10.1016/S0360-3016(97)00718-9. PMID 9457809. Huded V. Endovascular balloon-assisted glue embolization of intranidal high flow fistula in brain AVM. J Neurosci Rural Pract 2013;4, Suppl S1:148-9 Mayo Clinic staff (February 2009). "Brain AVM (arteriovenous malformation)-Risk factors". Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Retrieved 2010-05-30. "The ARUBA trial-A Randomized Trial of Unruptured Brain Arteriovenous Malformations". Retrieved 2010-05-30. [edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to . Cerebral arteriovenous malformation | 13,274 | 5,811 | 0.000174 |
warc | 201704 | The mission of WHO is the attainment by all peoples of the highest possible level of health.
Vacancy Notice No: WPRO/13/TASR17
Title: Technical Assistant
Grade: G7
Contract type: Temporary Appointment under Staff Rule 420.4
Duration of contract: Initially 6 months
Date:
22 March 2013
Application Deadline:
12 April 2013
Vacancy Filled
Duty Station:
Manila, Philippines
Organization unit:
WP/DHP Director, Building Healthy Communities & Populations (WP/DHP) / WP/NHP Noncommunicable Diseases and Health Promotion (WP/NHP)
OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAMME :
The Noncommunicable Diseases (NCD) Programme strategic objective is to prevent and reduce disease, disability and premature death from chronic noncommunicable conditions. The work focuses on policy development, programme implementation, monitoring and evaluation, strengthening of health and rehabilitation systems and services, capacity building in the area of chronic noncommunicable conditions (including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes, oral health, hearing and visual impairment including blindness, and genetic disorders). The programme develops and provides evidence-based guidance on the appropriate organization and effective operation of strategies for the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases and health promotion for the entire population and at all levels of the health care delivery system; strategies that involve communities and health-related sectors in responsible and coordinated ways. The programme provides technical support to countries in advocacy, policy and planning, surveillance, community interventions, clinical preventive services, evaluation and cost-effectiveness analysis across all of major preventable chronic conditions.
Description of duties:
Under the guidance and supervision of Medical Officer (NCD) and the Team Leader (Noncommunicable Diseases and Health Promotion), the incumbent will perform the following duties: 1. To provide support in the administration of surveys and tools (NCD risk factor surveys, school health surveys, etc.) and assist in data analysis and reporting; 2. To collate NCD surveillance data from Member States and develop and maintain databases; 3. To assist in the preparation of materials for NCD regional action plan development; 4. To provide support to meetings and consultations and development of meeting reports and other outcomes; 5. To collate information and update the NHP websites; and 6. To perform other related duties as required or instructed. Main achievements include: technical assistance and contribute to the development and implementation of NCD regional action plan; NCD information database supported.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education: Completed secondary education. University degree in public health, social sciences, statistics or a related field is preferred.
Skills:
1. Knowledge of the epidemiology of chronic diseases and their risk factors. 2. Good analytical skills in data collection, analysis and reporting related to NCD and risk factors. 3. Ability to work harmoniously as a member of the team, adapt to diverse cultural and educational backgrounds while maintaining a high standard of personal conduct; 4. Ability to develop plans and proposals. 5. Excellent communication skills.
Experience:
Over six years' work experience, including training, in the areas of public health, epidemiology and/or programme management/programme implementation/data management. Work experience with an international organization in the field of public health is an advantage.
Languages:
Excellent knowledge of spoken and written English.
Additional Information:
Post is subject to local recruitment and will be filled by persons recruited in the local commuting area of the office. Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted.
Annual salary:
(Net of tax)
653 457 at single rate
This vacancy notice may be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade level.
A written test and interviews may be used as a form of screening
Online applications are strongly encouraged to enable WHO to store your profile in a permanent database. Please visit WHO's e-Recruitment website at: www.who.int/employment. The system provides instructions for online application procedures.
All applicants are encouraged to apply online as soon as possible after the vacancy has been posted and well before the deadline stated in the vacancy announcement.
Any appointment/extension of appointment is subject to WHO Staff Regulations, Staff Rules and Manual. Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted.
Vacancy Filled
This vacancy is shown for viewing only. It is not currently open for applications
WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or users of any form of tobacco. | 4,848 | 2,290 | 0.00044 |
warc | 201704 | ERIC Number:ED059965 Record Type:RIE Publication Date:1971 Pages:12 Abstractor:N/A Reference Count:0 ISBN:N/A ISSN:N/A
Expectations for the Role of Teacher: A Comparison of Future Teachers and Experienced Teachers.
Osborne, John W.
A role definition instrument was administered to experienced and future teachers at the Universities of Wisconsin (Madison) and Houston in an attempt to identify areas of conflict between the expectations of these groups for the role of teacher. Unlike previous studies, this one focuses on the expectations of the future teacher. The factors of conformity, autonomy, discipline and communication comprised 30.4 percent of the instrument variance. Subject to the restricted sampling, results suggest that a recruitee's adjustment to the pressures to conform within the social system of the school, the maintenance of his professional autonomy, coping with classroom management, and communicating with those in complementary roles may be the four most important preoccupations of the new teacher and as such deserve special attention in teacher training. The Madison groups differed significantly only on discipline, while the Houston groups differed significantly on conformity, autonomy, and discipline. The one significant regional difference for teachers was conformity; significant regional differences for future teachers were on conformity and autonomy. (JLF)
Publication Type:N/A Education Level:N/A Audience:N/A Language:N/A Sponsor:N/A Authoring Institution:N/A Note:Paper presented at American Educational Research Association annual meeting, Chicago, April 1972 | 1,610 | 833 | 0.001205 |
warc | 201704 | ERIC Number:ED130208 Record Type:RIE Publication Date:1974 Pages:18 Abstractor:N/A Reference Count:0 ISBN:N/A ISSN:N/A
Effect of a Collective Project on Group Cohesion.
Shipley, Robert H.
Immediately before their second group therapy session, 10 newly formed inpatient therapy groups were randomly assigned to complete either collective or individual art projects. The members of a group in the collective-project condition completed a single art project as a group. Each member of a group assigned to the individual project condition completed an individual art project. In the therapy session which followed, groups in the collective-project condition showed a decrease in physical distance between group members relative to a baseline therapy session and relative to groups in the individual-project condition. These groups also scored higher on a questionnaire measure of cohesion. The questionnaire and intermember-distance measures of group cohesion correlated highly. Intermember distance returned to baseline during a follow-up therapy session. No differences were found during the therapy sessions in the frequency of three types of verbal behavior. It was concluded that collective art projects may be used to increase cohesion in ongoing therapy groups. Further exploration of intermember distance as a measure of group cohesion was suggested. (Author)
Descriptors: Creative Art, Group Dynamics, Group Therapy, Group Unity, Interaction Process Analysis, Mental Health Programs, Occupational Therapy, Research Projects, Verbal Communication
Robert H. Shipley, Mid-Missouri Mental Health Center, Columbia, Missouri 65201
Publication Type:Reports - Research Education Level:N/A Audience:N/A Language:N/A Sponsor:N/A Authoring Institution:N/A Note:Paper presented at the Annual Convention of the American Psychological Association (83rd, Chicago, Illinois, August 30 to September 2, 1975) | 1,903 | 941 | 0.001067 |
warc | 201704 | ERIC Number:ED326920 Record Type:Non-Journal Publication Date:1990-Mar Pages:74 Abstractor:N/A Reference Count:N/A ISBN:ISBN-0-7005-0976-3 ISSN:N/A
The Impact on the Education Service of Teacher Mobility: A Report.
Le Metais, Joanna
In December 1988 the Council of the European Communities adopted a directive to promote teacher mobility throughout the European Community (EC) by defining mutual qualifications. The purpose of this report is to assess the impact of the initiative on educational services. Chapter 1 is an introduction. Chapter 2 examines teacher recruitment problems and the implementation process of the EC directive. Chapter 3 compares initial teacher training with the directive's criteria and the criteria of the British Department of Education and Science in order to assess the effectiveness of other member states' training programs. The importance of differences in teachers' expectations of their professional role is addressed in chapter 4, which focuses on a cooperative study of French and English primary teachers (Broadfoot, 1988). Chapter 5 offers suggestions for school support of teachers from different environments. Chapter 6 makes recommendations for improving teacher recruitment, deployment, induction, retention, and management. The focus is on teachers preparing to teach at the general educational level. Methodology used for the report includes a literature review, consultations with United Kingdom agency representatives, data collaboration with a study conducted by the European educational policy network (Eurydice), and observation of the Netherlands' education system. An extensive bibliography is included. (LMI)
Descriptors: Elementary Secondary Education, Faculty Mobility, Foreign Countries, Teacher Certification, Teacher Motivation, Teacher Orientation, Teacher Qualifications, Teacher Recruitment, Teacher Role, Teacher Shortage, Teacher Supply and Demand
Editorial Services, National Foundation for Educational Research, The Mere, Upton Park, Slough, Berkshire SL1 2DQ, England, United Kingdom (5 pounds sterling).
Publication Type:Reports - Evaluative; Information Analyses Education Level:N/A Audience:N/A Language:English Sponsor:N/A Authoring Institution:National Foundation for Educational Research in England and Wales, London.; Association of Education Committees' Trust (England). | 2,353 | 1,225 | 0.000819 |
warc | 201704 | Peer reviewed
Download full text
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ERIC Number:ED496197 Record Type:Non-Journal Publication Date:2007-Apr-23 Pages:16 Abstractor:ERIC Reference Count:26 ISBN:N/A ISSN:N/A
Auditory Discrimination in Depth (ADD)[R]/Lindamood Phonemic Sequencing (LiPS)[R]. What Works Clearinghouse Intervention Report
What Works Clearinghouse
The "Auditory Discrimination in Depth (ADD) Program[R]" (currently called the "Lindamood Phonemic Sequencing (LiPS) Program[R]") is designed to teach students skills to successfully decode words and to identify individual sounds and blends in words. Initial activities engage students in discovering the lip, tongue, and mouth actions needed to produce specific sounds. After students are able to produce, label, and organize the sounds with their mouths, subsequent activities in sequencing, reading and spelling use the oral aspects of sounds to identify and order them within words. The program also offers direct instruction in letter patterns, sight words, and context clues in reading. The "Auditory Discrimination in Depth Program[R]" is individualized to meet students' needs and is often used with students who have learning disabilities or difficulties. The version of the program tested here involved computer-supported activities. One study of "Auditory Discrimination in Depth[R]" met the What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) evidence standards. The study included 150 first grade students in five elementary schools. The WWC considers the extent of evidence for "Auditory Discrimination in Depth[R]" to be small for alphabetics and comprehension. No studies that met WWC standards with or without reservations addressed fluency or general reading achievement. Based on one study, "Auditory Discrimination in Depth[R]" was found to have potentially positive effects on alphabetics and no discernible effects on comprehension. Findings on fluency and general reading achievement were not reported in the study. (Contains 15 footnotes.) [This publication was produced by the What Works Clearinghouse. The following study is reviewed in this intervention report: Torgesen, J., Wagner, R., Rashotte, C., & Herron, J. (2003). "Summary of outcomes from first grade study with Read, Write and Type and Auditory Discrimination in Depth Instruction and software with at-risk children" (FCRR Tech. Rep. No. 2). Retrieved from Florida Center for Reading Research Web site: http://www.fcrr.org/TechnicalReports/RWTfullrept.pdf.]
Descriptors: Grade 1, Reading Research, Phonemics, Reading Achievement, Learning Disabilities, Auditory Discrimination, Decoding (Reading), Reading Instruction, Learning Problems, Computer Assisted Instruction, Alphabets, Reading Comprehension, Beginning Reading
What Works Clearinghouse. 2277 Research Boulevard, MS 5M, Rockville, MD 20850. Tel: 866-992-9799; Fax: 301-519-6760; e-mail: info@whatworks.ed.gov; Web site: http://www.whatworks.ed.gov/
Publication Type:Reports - Evaluative Education Level:Grade 1 Audience:N/A Language:English Sponsor:Institute of Education Sciences (ED), Washington, DC. Authoring Institution:N/A | 3,119 | 1,509 | 0.000668 |
warc | 201704 | Southwestern Deserts March, 2009
Regional Report Transplant Landscape Plants
Now's the time to add native or desert-adapted trees, shrubs, vines, ground covers, cacti, and succulents. When choosing a planting area, allow enough space for the plant to grow to its full size without bumping into buildings, utility wires, or pedestrian areas. Plants that outgrow their space will require frequent pruning, which is stressful to the plant and creates green waste.
Transplant Colorful Perennials
Add coreopsis, yarrow, butterfly weed (asclepias), lavender, penstemon, blackfoot daisy, chocolate flower, catmint, gaura, sandpaper verbena, and gaillardia. Dig the hole about 12 inches deep to allow roots to spread easily.
Adjust Timers
Increase the frequency of irrigation as weather warms. Water should run the same length of time throughout the year; it is the frequency that changes. The easiest way to save water is to change your timer at least 4 times per year, but water conservation specialists recommend 6 or more. Most landscapes on drip irrigation are overwatered!
Prolong Cool-Season Vegetable Harvest
Continue to harvest peas and they will keep producing awhile longer. When broccoli, argula, lettuce, and other greens finish their life cycles, let them flower rather than pulling out the plants. Not only are the flowers pretty and edible (toss them in a salad), they attract pollinators, who will also be available to pollinate your warm-season tomatoes and peppers.
Rejuvenate Perennial Herbs
Freshen up lavendar, rosemary, and other woody herbs. Remove dead stems all the way to the ground. Trim back selected branches to new growth to rejuvenate the entire shrub as needed. | 1,698 | 957 | 0.001052 |
warc | 201704 | Transactions are a precursor to achieving transformation
By Richard W. Walker Jul 01, 2003
OMB's Norman Lorentz
Can agencies deliver?
The Government Paperwork Elimination Act, which requires agencies to provide the means for citizens and businesses to submit documents electronically, was signed into law five years ago. Now, its October deadline looms.
Since the passage of GPEA, government has proven highly proficient at making information available online. And, admittedly, that's nothing to scoff at.
'Government is making huge strides,' said Jim Tozzi, who during the Reagan administration served as the first deputy director of the Office of Management and Budget's Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs. 'People now have more information than they've ever had before.'
But everyone agrees that putting information or forms online is only the beginning.
'In 1998, the way we thought about doing this was putting up tons of these e-form things so that people could log on, fill in their information and submit it,' said Jeanette Thornton, OMB's e-authentication portfolio manager. 'We've evolved beyond that.'
E-government is now high atop the President's Management Agenda. And the stage is set for the next wave of e-government.
In a recent survey for the Council for Excellence in Government, conducted by Hart-Teeter Research, 60 percent of Americans who use the Internet said they want to do business with the government online. Three-quarters believe the benefits of e-government will expand in the next five to 10 years.
New term needed?
Some observers, such as Harvard professor Jerry Mechling, director for strategic computing and telecommunications in the private sector at Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government, think the term electronic government is already becoming a bit antiquated.
'What we have called e-government has been predominantly to offer access over the Internet so that people didn't physically have to come to government offices,' Mechling said.
Mechling's point is that the term fails to capture the magnitude of what government leaders are trying to do: fundamentally transform government. And they see electronic interaction with government as an instrument of that transformation.
Mark Forman, OMB's administrator for e-government and IT and a driving force behind the White House's e-government agenda, agreed that the most significant aspect of transformation is in how the government works. And it is government employees, rather than citizens, who will see the most dramatic changes. But as a descriptive term, he said, e-government is alive and well.
Portals for the people
'You can't say we're focusing our resources on government,' Forman said. 'You need to say we are focusing our resources on e-government. People understand that.'
People also want their online interactions with government to be effortless and secure.
That's where Web portals come in. Portals are becoming the friendly face of e-government. They also help out on the back end.
'I view portals as the user interface,' said Air Force CIO John Gilligan. 'A portal provides a common look and feel and a way of organizing information. ... From a technology standpoint, I see that as the core technology.'
Ultimately, e-government aims to make the citizen the focal point of everything government does.
'If there is an attraction to me personally about e-government, it's not the technology and it's not the economies of it'it's the notion of giving government back to the citizen,' said Ron Miller, assistant administrator for e-government at the Small Business Administration. 'You're eliminating a lot of the barriers that in my view have kept citizens from being engaged and involved in their government.' | 3,770 | 1,838 | 0.000548 |
warc | 201704 | The last two weeks have been filled with emotional conversation about the Georgia Archives.
After Secretary of State Brian Kemp’s announcement that he would close the Archives to the public and terminate seven of the agency’s 10 employees, supporters around the state rallied, aided by media coverage and facilitated by the speed of social media and email.
Gov. Nathan Deal’s ironically-timed ceremony at which he proclaimed October as Archives Month gave him an opportune platform from which to announce that he would find funding to keep the Archives open. Supporters, predictably, were ecstatic.
There were no details, and since the proclamation, the governor has remained silent. The Secretary of State stands by his decision to close the Archives and terminate the employees. As a constitutional officer, Kemp has complete control over his department’s personnel.
Word quickly spread, and advocates breathed a sigh of relief: the governor stepped in and “saved the Archives.” The protest was successful, the crisis averted. Time to move on.
After the initial euphoria, however, thoughtful supporters have begun to realize that the announcement might not have been the news they had been hoping for.
Will the Governor use emergency funds to maintain Archives service at the current level – with 10 employees? Will the Archives remain open, but with only three employees? Will the Governor exempt the Archives from cuts in the coming year’s budget or reduce the amount of cuts? Depending on the answers, the Archives could close as planned on Nov. 1 and to re-open after the legislative session, possibly with three staffers or inexperienced new-hires.
The Archives currently is open only two days a week. Users could face even more inconvenient – potentially impossible – access to records, if staff is cut or the Archives closed. Secretary Kemp apparently believes that a system of appointments satisfies the state Open Meetings law, which mandates “reasonable” access. That is a matter for debate and perhaps for the courts.
The state-of-the-art facility in Morrow was designed for only one purpose: the careful preservation of millions documents and artifacts. Its staff has been trained to carry out that mission, as well as to assist the public.
The Georgia Archives is not just a resource for hobby genealogists and history buffs or the repository for evidence of our cultural history. Professionals from lawyers to watchdogs to authors to government officials rely on the records, often to aid Georgia citizens.
Access to records held at the Archives is vital to transparent government. Not having “reasonable” access to these records will prevent citizens from learning about what decisions were made, when and why.
All Georgia departments have been ordered by the Governor to cut another three percent from their budgets for the coming year. Of course, after several years of cuts, there are no easy choices. Secretary Kemp chose to take all $730,000 from the Archives, leaving other divisions untouched. This small amount is all that stands between closure and maintaining the current level of service.
If the Archives closes, Georgia will rank 50
th among states in terms of access to the records that belong to its citizens. It will be the only Archives in the nation without public hours – a shameful statistic.
The governor, the secretary and the state legislature need to hear from Georgia citizens that this is not acceptable.
The struggle to keep the Archives open and the staff in place is not over.
Note: This article ran in the DeKalb Champion/Free Press newspaper on Friday, Oct. 5, as well as in other newspapers around the state.
Vivian Price Saffold | 3,771 | 1,828 | 0.000561 |
warc | 201704 | Nature Influences
How tall we grow and our body shape and weight and influenced by the genes from our parents
1 of 83
Nurture Influences
The effects of the enviroment we live in
2 of 83
Growth
The changes in mass and size
3 of 83
Development
The new skills and capabilities an infant acquires
4 of 83
Bond
Grow closer and develop emotional ties
5 of 83
Attachment
The bonding process between an infant or child and its carer. Attachment is achieved through close contact over a period of time
6 of 83
Egocentrism
Seeing things from only your own viewpoint
7 of 83
Modelling
Demonstrating behaviour of others to copy
8 of 83
Temper Tantrums
Poor behaviour by childrem such as screaming,throwing themselevs to the ground and getting really angry designed to try to get their own way
9 of 83
Puberty
a period of physical change caused by hormonal changes in the body
10 of 83
Abstract Thinking
The abilty to think about something that might not be there or even exist
11 of 83
Peer Group
The influence of people similar in many ways to the individual concerned for example of the same age, sex or class
12 of 83
Physical Maturity
Having reached the peak of physical capabilities
13 of 83
Metabolic Rate
The rate which the body burns up calories
14 of 83
Cohabit
live together
15 of 83
Ageing Process
the biological change that takes place over time to the human body affecting its structure and function
16 of 83
Empty Nest Sydrome
The feeling of loss and sadness when one or more children leavethe family home
17 of 83
Mid-life Crisis
A dramatic period of self doubt caused by the passing of youth and the move into later adulthood
18 of 83
Menopause
the natural and permanent sopping of menstruation (Periods) occuring usually between the aes of 45 and 55
19 of 83
Dementia
Various brain disorders that have in common a loss of brain function that is usually progressive and eventually severe
20 of 83
Quality Time
Time spent relating closely ro and focussing on others which may be more rewarding than a longer people time spent being less engaged
21 of 83
Heredity
the transmission of particular quality or trait from parent to offspring through their genes
22 of 83
Genes
DNA ribbons that control a heredity characteristic
23 of 83
Chromosome
A thread like piece of DNA that contains genes and transmits heredity information
24 of 83
Dominant
Having the most influence and control
25 of 83
Huntington's Disease
A heredity disorder affecting the central nervous system causing abnormal body movements also known as Huntingtons Chorea
26 of 83
Extended Family
A family that includes more than just parents and children for example with grandparents, uncles and aunts and so on
27 of 83
Custom
A practise or way of acting that is a habit or usual
28 of 83
Values
Set of principles by which people lead their lives
29 of 83
Primary Socialisation
the influence of carers on values, attitudes and behaviour
30 of 83
Culture
Distinctive patterns of human activity and way of life in a group
31 of 83
Multicultural
Including a range of ethnic and cultural groups
32 of 83
Sexuality
Sense of emotional, sexual and affectional attraction to others
33 of 83
Sexual Orientation
The direction someone's sexuality takes for example towards men or women
34 of 83
Cival Ceremony
A legal ceremony with no religious elements conducted by a registrar having the same legal validity as a traditional marriage
35 of 83
Arranged Marriage
A marriage arrange by a person other than the person getting married
36 of 83
Custody
The legal arrangements about who is responsible for a child after a divorce
37 of 83
Divorce
The legal ending of a marriage
38 of 83
Manual Work
Work that requires the use of physical skills
39 of 83
Non-manual Work
Work that depends primarily on mental skills
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Wealth
Being richand having a plentiful supply of good and money
41 of 83
Income
Money owned over a given period of time
42 of 83
Poverty
despite enefits having insufficient money to afford essentials to live
43 of 83
City
a large densely populated urban area taditionally one with a cathedral through city status is now granted by the queen
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Town
An urban area that is smaller than a city and has a fixed boundary
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Rural
In and area a with a population of fewer than 2,500 people
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Suburb
A residential area round the edges of major city
47 of 83
Self Image
How you see yourself
48 of 83
Self Esteem
How you value yourself
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Self Concept
A combination of self image and self esteem
50 of 83
Family
A group of people connected through bllod relations marriage and co-residence
51 of 83
Socialise
Bring into society train or guide to be part of a social group
52 of 83
Bereavement
When someone dies the period of loss during which grief takes place
53 of 83
Peer Group Pressure
The influence of thw social group you belong to
54 of 83
Intimate Relationship
A close realtionship
55 of 83
Sexual Relationship
A realationship involving sex
56 of 83
Physical Development
Changes in size and mass, fine and gross motor skills, coordination and balance
57 of 83
Intellectual Development
Learning new skills, abilties and thinking and understanding concepts and how the world works
58 of 83
Emotional Development
Expressing emotions and feelings, self confidence, esteem and concept
59 of 83
Social Development
Expected behaviours within family and society, interacting with others, sharing, taking turns and cooperating with others
60 of 83
Maturation
The sequence of physical changes thst happen in each life stage
61 of 83
Developmental Norms
Also called milestones expected developments at certain ages
62 of 83
Percentile Charts
Recording of weight and heright changes in infants
63 of 83
Moro (Startle)
Baby throws its head back fingers fan outand the baby cries
64 of 83
Grasping
Baby closes fingers tightly around the object
65 of 83
Placing
Baby lifts its foot and places it on a hard surface
66 of 83
Walking
Baby moves its legs forward alternately and walks
67 of 83
Sucking
Baby sucks
68 of 83
Rooting
Baby turns to the side of the stimulus for example bottle or breast
69 of 83
Play
Helps extend social relationships, cooperation, imagination, interests in others and interaction
70 of 83
Body Language
Communicating using body movements or gestures
71 of 83
Empathy
Is being able to put yourself in the other persons shoes
72 of 83
Domicilliary Care
Means care at home
73 of 83
Cultural Beliefs
Are the general customs or ways of life of a paricular group of people
74 of 83
Diet
The range of foods that you eat from a number of groups
75 of 83
Physical Charateristic of the Menopause
Menstruation ceases
76 of 83
Life Stages
Are the stages you go through in your life and are split into different stages
77 of 83
Examples of Lifestages
infancy, early childhood, adolescence, early adulthood, middle adulthood and later adulthood
78 of 83
Examples of Social Skills
Being able to make friends and tell a joke
79 of 83
Examples of Expected life Events
going to school,finding work and getting married
80 of 83
Examples of Unexpected life Events
illnesses, divorce, redudancy and death of a family member
81 of 83
Psychological Factor
Stress
82 of 83
Genetically determined factors include
Blood type and eye colour
83 of 83
Other cards in this set Card 2 Front
Nurture Influences
Back
The effects of the enviroment we live in
Card 3 Front
Growth
Back Card 4 Front
Development
Back Card 5 Front
Bond | 7,666 | 3,529 | 0.000293 |
warc | 201704 | Michelle Kaufmann has been called the high priestess of green “prefab” design. The architect, who worked for Frank Gehry early in her career, was one of the first to make a persuasive case that prefabricated design — which saves time and reduces waste compared with conventional home building, among other benefits — could be green and chic. Her old firm, Oakland, Calif.-based mkDesigns, designed and built 51 prefab homes since 2004, more than any other architectural firm, according to Kaufmann. Each structure was built as a series of boxes in a factory that were then shipped and assembled out in the field.
In May, amid the economic downturn, Kaufmann closed mkDesigns after two factory partners went under and several clients lost financing for projects. The experience was “devastating,” Kaufmann said, but after some soul searching she committed to pursuing her passion for making “thoughtful, sustainable design accessible.” Kaufmann launched a new firm, Sausalito, Calif.-based Michelle Kaufmann Studio, and sold the assets of mkDesigns to Waltham, Mass.-based Blu Homes. Her new firm will design prefab homes, but now Kaufmann is focusing more on larger community developments, which she says will benefit from economies of scale. We sat down with Kaufmann during last week’s West Coast Green conference in San Francisco to discuss the prefab industry.
What opportunities do you see for startups in the prefab space?
It is the perfect time to be starting a business. You have to be smart about it, surgically focused and hard working. I think there are more opportunities now than ever before because the playing field has been leveled. I think the prefab home market, in general, is ripe for innovation. Builders and developers are looking for alternative methods of construction. They want it to be green, and they are looking for prepackaged solutions. It helps them with risk management and inventory control.
How much does technology play in prefab, or is it just a new way of doing architecture?
There is so much broken with the standard architecture and construction process for single family homes. Only 3 percent of homes are designed by architects. We as builders and architects can complain about it or do something about it, and technology is a critical part of that. We’ve been using innovation and technology in every other industry to bring good design to the masses, yet we’re still building the way we’ve been doing it for a hundred years. The model is broken and wasteful. Have you ever heard of someone saying that I just finished a house and it was done on time and on budget? You never hear that. That is wrong. Imagine if we said that about our phones. That product would not last. There is just so much we can improve because it is so broken.
What were the main lessons you learned from mkDesigns?
You need to be smart about prefabricated green building, to make it easier for people to have a green home. Not just for the families living in them but for the builders and developers. It isn’t a question if they want a green home. They want healthy homes, but we have to make it easy. We can’t make them cost more or take more time than a non-green home. Those are the right elements to target. That is what makes it all happen. Scale is the key issue I think for any company approaching the idea of prefab green homes. It’s tough to do it with one-offs, which is why I’m now focusing on communities. I don’t see how you could make it accessible without scale. If companies are going to be successful, they have to figure out how they will address scale.
What would you have done differently in the way you executed with mkDesigns?
I don’t know that I would have done anything differently. We had a lot of successes. It was the timing and the lending crashing as well as the factories going out of business. Maybe in hindsight it may have been better to build everything in our factory and not trust factory partners. But that would have been impossible to tell at the time. We thought they were healthy enough to stay in business, but in one case their backers backed out and in another they didn’t share the true story of what was happening.
What will it take for prefab homes to become a significant portion of our built environment?
Financing is a key part. I was fortunate enough to spend the day with the founder of Patagonia, Yvon Chouinard. It was interesting to hear him talk about the work he’s doing with Walmart (s WMT). He’s trying to get them to do all organic food. If Walmart does all organic food, that changes the world’s production of food. I realized that it is important to have a grassroots movement to do proof of concept, but the thing that pulls it off is working with seemingly unlikely characters who have the scale capacity. It will be the bigger home builders embracing offsite technology, which they’re starting to do, that will change this industry. I think that’s why it is a really interesting
Will the scale-up require big investors?
Different businesses have different business plans. Some will take on investment money, some might be self-financed. What needs to be rethought is the lending practice. When we come out of this [economic crisis], we will have a totally different lending model. I think we’ll see more private companies rather than the big banks lending to individuals. Maybe a builder might look to take on investors to build a project rather than going to the banks. The most successful companies in the building world will be the ones who figure out how to do it without being dependent on the banks.
Photo: Sunset Breezehouse in Marin County, Calif., by mkDesigns. Credit: John Swain. | 5,814 | 2,666 | 0.000384 |
warc | 201704 | Everyone, it seemed, had a strong reaction to Google’s decision this week to stop censoring its search results on Google.cn. Some were impressed with its moral stance; some found it to be too little, too late; and still others viewed it as a cynical move.
Maybe I’ve been writing about the business world for too long, but my first thought was -– hmm, Google has turned civil disobedience into a business strategy.
To be clear, civil disobedience is substantially different for a company than it is for individual citizens. Google will never face the triumvirate risks that many people who defy oppressive governments do: jail, torture, death. Instead, Google will likely have to shut down its offices in China, a move that could cost them hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue this year alone.
But judging from some of the ideas that shaped Thoreau’s use of the term back in the 1840s — the refusal to resign consciences to governments or to become agents of injustice –- Google is in fact acting out of civil disobedience. It’s certainly not the first company to do so; those that voluntarily divested from South Africa and other countries with appalling policies were doing the same. But Google is the first company I can think of to act on such a large scale.
Does that mean Google is acting from self-interest or altruism? My guess is both, but I’ll let that debate simmer on other web pages. I’m willing to accept that Sergey Brin is doing what he believes is right. But Google is a corporation, not a person, and its interests and motives are by definition much more complex.
Whether to practice civil disobedience is less and less of a marginal issue for companies in a global economy. The question of whether to practice it is an especially pertinent one for Internet companies to ask now –- if for no other reason than the fact that the Internet is an ideal platform for supporting protests. Back in 1998, Stefan Wray wrote an essay on electronic civil disobedience in which he foresaw how the Internet and civil disobedience would be closely enmeshed, noting that:
While it may be partially true…that participation in street actions has become increasingly meaningless and futile and that future resistance must become primarily nomadic, electronic, and cyberspacial, it is doubtful that physical street actions, involving real people on the ground, will end any time soon. What is more likely is that we will see electronic civil disobedience continue to be phased in as a component of or as a complement to traditional civil disobedience.
Call it cynical or practical, but Google, whose business is done entirely on the Internet, recognizes that evolution. Google is forced to choose sides in a battle that has been unfolding for some time – China vs. the Internet – and the side it’s chosen will win in the long run. The risks, though, lie in how long it will take for that victory to arrive, and what it will cost Google in the meantime.
Related GigaOM Pro Research: | 3,066 | 1,533 | 0.00067 |
warc | 201704 | Just in time for Halloween! Does any one know the name of the very large ship that was turning around in the harbor yesterday morning? Does any one know the name of the very large ship that was turning around in the harbor yesterday morning?
I’m sure you have read about the Lyubov Orlova, which over a year ago was abandoned in Newfoundland because of a dispute over debts. On its tow to a salvage yard in the Dominican Republic, the ship broke free and became adrift. At first it was thought to be heading towards the British Isles however, it is now widely believed to have sunk. The most recent reports suggest that rats cannot live more than five days without water.
This story had me thinking about rats in general and rats along Gloucester’s waterfront, which in turn led to thinking about one of the many reasons why I love cats.
The Norway rat (
Rattus norvegicus), also known as the brown rat, sewer rat, common rat, and myriad other terms of non-endearment, is native to northern China. The species found its way to Eastern Europe by the early eighteenth century. By the year 1800, they occurred in every European country. First sightings of R. norvegicus in the New World were reported in the 1770′s as ship stowaways.
During the Middle Ages cats were reviled and killed en masse. In the few regions where cats were not killed there were far less fatalities from the pandemic Black Death, which killed roughly half the population of Europe. Had this fear of cats not existed, populations of the Black Rat (
Rattus rattus) would have been minimized, lessening the spread of plague infected fleas, carried by rats.
Rats are one of the world’s most successful mammals, second only to humans. They live everywhere except Antarctica.
All images courtesy google image search.
A couple of summers ago, in the yard of the railways on Rocky Neck, the
Rosalie, barnacled and rusted with curtains blowing in the wind, looked ghostly. You almost could feel the spirits within.
“
Most of us, I suppose, are a little nervous of the sea. No matter what its smiles may be, we doubt its friendship.” ~H.M. Tomlinson | 2,154 | 1,143 | 0.000893 |
warc | 201704 | Financial regulator
The financial regulator regulates the financial services industry including markets, exchanges and firms. They typically work for government bodies or independent standards organisations to ensure financial services meet industry-specific regulations.
Financial regulators can work in different departments to ensure financial service companies are compliant with the law and financial regulations. Regulators also provide information to consumers to protect them from improper practices. In the Republic of Ireland, regulation is the responsiblity of the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ireland (known as the Financial Regulator), a division of the Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland (CBFSAI); this incorporates areas such as economic analysis, customer protection, regulation of markets and financial institutions and payment and currency. The UK is regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA), with main offices in London.
Work activities
You will regulate/analyse firms and financial markets and implement regulatory policy. Starting out, you may supervise a small bank or be involved with the development of policy. Regulation also requires functions such as accountants, legal representatives and IT, HR and marketing professionals. The FSA has annual recruitment and offers a number of graduate training schemes. To work for the Financial Regulator, you apply to the CBFSAI. Recruitment is ongoing and you may work across their banking, regulating or support functions. Financial firms such as hedge fund managers often have compliance functions within their finance departments.
Work conditions
Travel: may feature.
Working hours: mainly 9.00 am to 5.00 am with some longer hours around deadlines; freelance financial regulators manage their own hours. Location: the Central Bank of Ireland is based in Dublin. Entry requirements
A degree in a related subject such as law, accountancy or finance is generally required. A postgraduate qualification specialising in a related field is advantageous for applications. Prior relevant experience is generally a prerequisite. | 2,153 | 1,032 | 0.000974 |
warc | 201704 | After several years of discussion and debate, the Scientific Working Group for Bloodstain Pattern Analysis (SWGSTAIN) has released its recommended terminology list.
At the October 2009 IABPA meeting in Portland, OR, USA, the IABPA membership voted to adopt the SWGSTAIN terminology as its recommended terminology. [We will maintain a list of the old IABPA terminology.]
The menu on the right lists the SWGSTAIN terms from the recommended terminology list. When you select a term from the links at right, the SWGSTAIN definition will be at the top of the section with an example image of the term shown below if appropriate. A description of the image is given below, followed by alternate terminology.
The majority of the images were created in a laboratory setting with fresh human blood. For the larger volume stains, sheep blood mixed with an anti-coagulant and a preservative was used. The images are meant to serve as a general example to exhibit the characteristics of the bloodstain patterns.
Some bloodstain pattern analysts have created their own classification methods.
In Bloodstain Pattern Analysis: With an Introduction to Crime Scene Reconstruction, Tom Bevel, and Ross Gardner use a taxonomic classification system where the main categories are
The Spatter Family, The Non-Spatter Family, and Complex Patterns.
In Principles of Bloodstain Pattern Analysis: Theory and Practice, Stuart James, Paul Kish, and Paulette Sutton have used the categories of
Passive, Spatter, and Altered.
In Bloodstain Pattern Evidence: Objective Approaches and Case Applications, Anita Wonder provides a flow-diagram to assist in classifying bloodstain patterns where the main categories are
Spatter Groups, Spatters Not a Criteria, and Composites. | 1,753 | 864 | 0.001165 |
warc | 201704 | APPLICATION OF OPERATIONS RESEARCH METHODS IN MATHEMATICAL MODELLING OF PRODUCTION PROBLEMS
INTRODUCTIONS A mathematical model is a description of a system using mathematical concepts and language. The process of developing a mathematical model is termed mathematical modeling. Mathematical models are used in the natural sciences (such as physics, biology, earth science, meteorology) and engineering disciplines (such as computer science, artificial intelligence), as well as in the social sciences (such as economics, psychology, sociology, political science). Physicists, engineers, statisticians, operations research analysts, and economists use mathematical models most extensively. A model may help to explain a system and to study the effects of different components, and to make predictions about behaviour. The mathematical model of a production system is defined by the following five components: 1. Type of a production system: It shows how the machines and material handling devices are connected and defines the flow of parts within the system. 2. Models of the machines: They quantify the operation of the machines from the point of view of their productivity, reliability, and quality. 3. Models of the material handling devices: They quantify their parameters, which affect the overall system performance. 4. Rules of interactions between the machines and material handling devices: They define how the states of the machines and material handling devices affect each other and, thus, facilitate uniqueness of the resulting mathematical description. 5. Performance measures: These are metrics, which quantify the efficiency of system operation and, thus, are central to analysis, continuous improvement, and design methods developed. Mathematical models can take many forms, including but not limited to dynamical systems, statistical models, differential equations, or game theoretic models. These and other types of models can overlap, with a given model involving a variety of abstract structures. In general, mathematical models may include logical models. In many cases, the quality of a scientific field depends on how well the mathematical models developed on the theoretical side agree with results of repeatable experiments. Lack of agreement between theoretical mathematical models and experimental measurements often leads to important advances as better theories are developed. Principles of Mathematical Modeling Mathematical modeling is a principled activity that has both principles behind it and methods that can be successfully applied. The principles are over-arching or meta-principles phrased as questions about the intentions and purposes of mathematical modeling. These meta-principles are almost philosophical in nature. These methodological modeling principles are also captured in the following list of questions and answers: • Why? What are we looking for? Identify the need for the model. • Find? What do we want to know? List the data we are seeking. • Given? What do we know? Identify the available relevant data. • Assume? What can we assume? Identify the circumstances that apply. • How? How should we look at this model? Identify the governing physical principles. • Predict? What will our model predict? Identify the equations that will be used, the calculations that will be made, and the answers that will result. • Valid? Are the predictions valid? Identify tests that can be made to validate the model, i.e., is it consistent with its principles and assumptions? • Verified? Are the predictions good? Identify tests that can be made to verify the model, i.e., is it useful in terms of the initial reason it was done? There is a large element of compromise in mathematical modelling. The majority of interacting systems in the real world are far too complicated to model in their entirety. Hence the first level of compromise is to identify the most important parts of the system. These will be included in the model, the rest will be excluded. The second level of compromise concerns the amount of mathematical manipulation which is worthwhile. Although mathematics has the potential to prove general results, these results depend critically on the form of equations used. Small changes in the structure of equations may require enormous changes in the mathematical methods. Using computers to handle the model equations may never lead to elegant results, but it is much more robust against alterations. WHAT OBJECTIVES CAN MODELLING ACHIEVE Mathematical modelling can be used for a number of different reasons. How well any particular objective is achieved depends on both the state of knowledge about a system and how well the modelling is done. Examples of the range of objectives are: 1. Developing scientific understanding – through quantitative expression of current knowledge of a system (as well as displaying What we know, this may also show up what we do not know); 2. Test the effect of changes in a system; 3. Aid decision making, including (i) Tactical decisions by managers; (ii) Strategic decisions by planners.
CLASSIFICATIONS OF MODELS
When studying models, it is helpful to identify broad categories of models. Classification of individual models into these categories tells us immediately some of the essentials of their structure. One division between models is based on the type of outcome they predict. Deterministic models ignore random variation, and so always predict the same outcome from a given starting point. On the other hand, the model may be more statistical in nature and so may predict the distribution of possible outcomes. Such models are said to be stochastic. A second method of distinguishing between types of models is to consider the level of understanding on which the model is based. The simplest explanation is to consider the hierarchy of organizational structures within the system being modelled.
STAGES OF MODELLING
It is helpful to divide up the process of modelling into four broad categories of activity, namely building, studying, testing and use. Although it might be nice to think that modelling projects progress smoothly from building through to use, this is hardly ever the case. In general, defects found at the studying and testing stages are corrected by returning to the building stage. Note that if any changes are made to the model, then the studying and testing stages must be repeated. A pictorial representation of potential routes through the stages of modelling is: Studying Testing Use Building This process of repeated iteration is typical of modelling projects, and is one of the most useful aspects of modelling in terms of improving our understanding about how the system works. We shall use this division of modelling activities to provide a structure for the rest of this course. LITERATURE REVIEW In last few decades many efforts had been made to represent the manufacturing facility into a mathematical model. These models are of different types depending upon the type of production facility. One of them is time based model. Time is the main parameter in this model. The main objective of this type of model is reduction of time required to produce final product. Other types of models are sequence based model. The main objective of these types of model is to determine the optimal and feasible processing sequence. The hybrid type of problem can also be formulated by combination of these two models. Some of the successful attempts of mathematical formulation and optimization are listed here. B. Naderi and A. Azab (2014) formulate the Operation-position based model; Operation-sequence based model, and heuristic models for Distributed job shop environment. They also developed the Evolutionary algorithm to solve these models. Xinyu Li,Liang Gao (2010) formulated a mathematical model of integrated process planning and scheduling. They have developed an evolutionary algorithm based method for integration and optimization. They also compared feasibility and performance of their proposed method with some previous works. J. Behnamiana (2015) solved the mixed integer linear programming by the CPLEX solver. Their problem was for small size instances scheduling. And they also compared their obtained results by heuristic method with two genetic algorithms in the large size instances. Cheol Min Joo (2015) derived a mathematical model for unrelated parallel machine scheduling problem by considering sequence and machine dependent setup times and machine dependent processing times .Xiao-Ning Shen, Xin Yao (2015) constructed a mathematical model for the multi objective dynamic flexible job shop scheduling problem. Hlynur Stefansson (2011) have studied scheduling problem from a pharmaceutical company. They decompose the problem into two parts and they compared the discrete and continuous time representations for solving the individual parts. They also enlisted pros and cons of each model. Z.X. Guo (2013) formulated the multi objective order scheduling problem with the consideration of multiple plants, multiple production departments and multiple production processes. A Pareto optimization model is developed to solve the problem MATHEMATICAL THEORY Optimization is a field within applied mathematics and deals with using mathematical models and methods to find the best possible alternative in decision making situations. In fact optimization is the science of making the best possible decision. The expression “best” means that an objective should be denned, and “possible” indicates that there are some restriction for the decision. In general, an optimization problem can be formulated as tominimize f(x); (1) subject to x_X; in which f : Rn 7! R is the objective function and x_Rn are the decision variables. The set X _ Rn MODEL CLASSIFICATIONS IN MATHEMATICS Mathematical models are usually composed of relationships and variables. Relationships can be described by operators, such as algebraic operators, functions, differential operators, etc. Variables are abstractions of system parameters of interest, that can be quantified. Several classification critera can be used for mathematical models according to their structure: • Linear vs. nonlinear: If all the operators in a mathematical model exhibit linearity, the resulting mathematical model is defined as linear. A model is considered to be nonlinear otherwise. The definition of linearity and nonlinearity is dependent on context, and linear models may have nonlinear expressions in them. For example, in a statistical linear model, it is assumed that a relationship is linear in the parameters, but it may be nonlinear in the predictor variables. Similarly, a differential equation is said to be linear if it can be written with linear differential operators, but it can still have nonlinear expressions in it. In a mathematical programming model, if the objective functions and constraints are represented entirely by linear equations, then the model is regarded as a linear model. If one or more of the objective functions or constraints are represented with a nonlinear equation, then the model is known as a nonlinear model. Nonlinearity, even in fairly simple systems, is often associated with phenomena such as chaos and irreversibility. Although there are exceptions, nonlinear systems and models tend to be more difficult to study than linear ones. A common approach to nonlinear problems is linearization, but this can be problematic if one is trying to study aspects such as irreversibility, which are strongly tied to nonlinearity. • Static vs. dynamic: A dynamic model accounts for time-dependent changes in the state of the system, while a static (or steady-state) model calculates the system in equilibrium, and thus is time-invariant. Dynamic models typically are represented by differential equations. • Explicit vs. implicit: If all of the input parameters of the overall model are known, and the output parameters can be calculated by a finite series of computations (known as linear programming, not to be confused with linearity as described above), the model is said to be explicit. But sometimes it is the output parameters which are known, and the corresponding inputs must be solved for by an iterative procedure, such as Newton’s method (if the model is linear) or Broyden’s method (if non-linear). For example, a jet engine’s physical properties such as turbine and nozzle throat areas can be explicitly calculated given a design thermodynamic cycle (air and fuel flow rates, pressures, and temperatures) at a specific flight condition and power setting, but the engine’s operating cycles at other flight conditions and power settings cannot be explicitly calculated from the constant physical properties. • Discrete vs. continuous: A discrete model treats objects as discrete, such as the particles in a molecular model or the states in a statistical model; while a continuous model represents the objects in a continuous manner, such as the velocity field of fluid in pipe flows, temperatures and stresses in a solid, and electric field that applies continuously over the entire model due to a point charge. • Deterministic vs. probabilistic (stochastic): A deterministic model is one in which every set of variable states is uniquely determined by parameters in the model and by sets of previous states of these variables; therefore, a deterministic model always performs the same way for a given set of initial conditions. Conversely, in a stochastic model—usually called a “statistical model”—randomness is present, and variable states are not described by unique values, but rather by probability distributions. • Deductive, inductive, or floating: A deductive model is a logical structure based on a theory. An inductive model arises from empirical findings and generalization from them. The floating model rests on neither theory nor observation, but is merely the invocation of expected structure. Application of mathematics in social sciences outside of economics has been criticized for unfounded models.[1] Application of catastrophe theory in science has been characterized as a floating model.[2] Significance in the natural sciences Mathematical models are of great importance in the natural sciences, particularly in physics. Physical theories are almost invariably expressed using mathematical models. Throughout history, more and more accurate mathematical models have been developed. Newton’s laws accurately describe many everyday phenomena, but at certain limits relativity theory and quantum mechanics must be used, even these do not apply to all situations and need further refinement. It is possible to obtain the less accurate models in appropriate limits, for example relativistic mechanics reduces to Newtonian mechanics at speeds much less than the speed of light. Quantum mechanics reduces to classical physics when the quantum numbers are high. For example, the de Broglie wavelength of a tennis ball is insignificantly small, so classical physics is a good approximation to use in this case. It is common to use idealized models in physics to simplify things. Massless ropes, point particles, ideal gases and the particle in a box are among the many simplified models used in physics. The laws of physics are represented with simple equations such as Newton’s laws, Maxwell’s equations and the Schrödinger equation. These laws are such as a basis for making mathematical models of real situations. Many real situations are very complex and thus modeled approximate on a computer, a model that is computationally feasible to compute is made from the basic laws or from approximate models made from the basic laws. For example, molecules can be modeled by molecular orbital models that are approximate solutions to the Schrödinger equation. In engineering, physics models are often made by mathematical methods such as finite element analysis. Different mathematical models use different geometries that are not necessarily accurate descriptions of the geometry of the universe. Euclidean geometry is much used in classical physics, while special relativity and general relativity are examples of theories that use geometries which are not Euclidean. Some applications Since prehistorical times simple models such as maps and diagrams have been used. Often when engineers analyze a system to be controlled or optimized, they use a mathematical model. In analysis, engineers can build a descriptive model of the system as a hypothesis of how the system could work, or try to estimate how an unforeseeable event could affect the system. Similarly, in control of a system, engineers can try out different control approaches in simulations. A mathematical model usually describes a system by a set of variables and a set of equations that establish relationships between the variables. Variables may be of many types; real or integer numbers, boolean values or strings, for example. The variables represent some properties of the system, for example, measured system outputs often in the form of signals, timing data, counters, and event occurrence (yes/no). The actual model is the set of functions that describe the relations between the different variables. Building blocks In business and engineering, mathematical models may be used to maximize a certain output. The system under consideration will require certain inputs. The system relating inputs to outputs depends on other variables too: decision variables, state variables, exogenous variables, and random variables. Decision variables are sometimes known as independent variables. Exogenous variables are sometimes known as parameters or constants. The variables are not independent of each other as the state variables are dependent on the decision, input, random, and exogenous variables. Furthermore, the output variables are dependent on the state of the system (represented by the state variables). Objectives and constraints of the system and its users can be represented as functions of the output variables or state variables. The objective functions will depend on the perspective of the model’s user. Depending on the context, an objective function is also known as an index of performance, as it is some measure of interest to the user. Although there is no limit to the number of objective functions and constraints a model can have, using or optimizing the model becomes more involved (computationally) as the number increases. For example, in economics students often apply linear algebra when using input-output models. Complicated mathematical models that have many variables may be consolidated by use of vectors where one symbol represents several variables. A priori information Mathematical modeling problems are often classified into black box or white box models, according to how much a priori information on the system is available. A black-box model is a system of which there is no a priori information available. A white-box model (also called glass box or clear box) is a system where all necessary information is available. Practically all systems are somewhere between the black-box and white-box models, so this concept is useful only as an intuitive guide for deciding which approach to take. Usually it is preferable to use as much a priori information as possible to make the model more accurate. Therefore, the white-box models are usually considered easier, because if you have used the information correctly, then the model will behave correctly. Often the a priori information comes in forms of knowing the type of functions relating different variables. For example, if we make a model of how a medicine works in a human system, we know that usually the amount of medicine in the blood is an exponentially decaying function. But we are still left with several unknown parameters; how rapidly does the medicine amount decay, and what is the initial amount of medicine in blood? This example is therefore not a completely white-box model. These parameters have to be estimated through some means before one can use the model. In black-box models one tries to estimate both the functional form of relations between variables and the numerical parameters in those functions. Using a priori information we could end up, for example, with a set of functions that probably could describe the system adequately. If there is no a priori information we would try to use functions as general as possible to cover all different models. An often used approach for black-box models are neural networks which usually do not make assumptions about incoming data. Alternatively the NARMAX (Nonlinear AutoRegressive Moving Average model with eXogenous inputs) algorithms which were developed as part of nonlinear system identification [3] can be used to select the model terms, determine the model structure, and estimate the unknown parameters in the presence of correlated and nonlinear noise. The advantage of NARMAX models compared to neural networks is that NARMAX produces models that can be written down and related to the underlying process, whereas neural networks produce an approximation that is opaque. Subjective information Sometimes it is useful to incorporate subjective information into a mathematical model. This can be done based on intuition, experience, or expert opinion, or based on convenience of mathematical form. Bayesian statistics provides a theoretical framework for incorporating such subjectivity into a rigorous analysis: we specify a prior probability distribution (which can be subjective), and then update this distribution based on empirical data. An example of when such approach would be necessary is a situation in which an experimenter bends a coin slightly and tosses it once, recording whether it comes up heads, and is then given the task of predicting the probability that the next flip comes up heads. After bending the coin, the true probability that the coin will come up heads is unknown; so the experimenter would need to make a decision (perhaps by looking at the shape of the coin) about what prior distribution to use. Incorporation of such subjective information might be important to get an accurate estimate of the probability. Complexity In general, model complexity involves a trade-off between simplicity and accuracy of the model. Occam’s razor is a principle particularly relevant to modeling; the essential idea being that among models with roughly equal predictive power, the simplest one is the most desirable. While added complexity usually improves the realism of a model, it can make the model difficult to understand and analyze, and can also pose computational problems, including numerical instability. Thomas Kuhn argues that as science progresses, explanations tend to become more complex before a Paradigm shift offers radical simplification. For example, when modeling the flight of an aircraft, we could embed each mechanical part of the aircraft into our model and would thus acquire an almost white-box model of the system. However, the computational cost of adding such a huge amount of detail would effectively inhibit the usage of such a model. Additionally, the uncertainty would increase due to an overly complex system, because each separate part induces some amount of variance into the model. It is therefore usually appropriate to make some approximations to reduce the model to a sensible size. Engineers often can accept some approximations in order to get a more robust and simple model. For example, Newton’s classical mechanics is an approximated model of the real world. Still, Newton’s model is quite sufficient for most ordinary-life situations, that is, as long as particle speeds are well below the speed of light, and we study macro-particles only. Examples • One of the popular examples in computer science is the mathematical models of various machines, an example is the deterministic finite automaton which is defined as an abstract mathematical concept, but due to the deterministic nature of a DFA, it is implementable in hardware and software for solving various specific problems. For example, the following is a DFA M with a binary alphabet, which requires that the input contains an even number of 0s.
CONCLUSION
Day by day the complexity of production environment is increasing. Due to this complexity it is very difficult to define the manufacturing facility in mathematical form. Mathematical formulation can be made easy by splitting the large problem into pieces and solving them separately. From literature review it can be concluded that most of the research related to production scheduling is concentrated on finding out the optimum sequence or study related to make span and cost. Very few attempts have been made for optimizing the labour. Mathematical modeling can be very difficult if the parameters and relation between them is not known. In this study the mathematical model of the manufacturing firm is successfully formulated. This mathematical model can be further modified to obtain desired flexibility. Formulating mathematical model is difficult but solving it can be more difficult. Sometimes the formulated model gives infeasible solution and sometimes it takes huge time to solve. Such types of problems can be solved by modern evolutionary algorithms such as Genetic Algorithm, Tabu search, Ant colony optimization etc.
REFRENCES
[1] B. Naderi, A. Azab (2014), ―Modeling and heuristics for
scheduling of distributed job shops‖, Expert Systems with Applications volume-41 page-7754–7763 [2] Xinyu Li, Liang Gao (2010), ―Mathematical modeling and evolutionary algorithm based approach for integrated process planning and scheduling‖, Computers & Operations Research volume-37 page- 656—667 [3] J. Behnamiana (2015), ―Minimizing cost related objective in synchronous scheduling of parallel factories in the virtual production network‖, Applied Soft Computing volume-29 page-221–232 [4]Cheol Min Joo, Byung Soo Kim (2015), ―Hybrid genetic algorithms with dispatching rules for unrelated parallel machine scheduling with setup time and production availability‖, Computers & Industrial Engineering volume -85 page-102–109 [5] Xiao- Ning Shen, Xin Yao (2015), ―Mathematical modeling and multi-objective evolutionary algorithms applied to dynamic flexible job shop scheduling problems‖, Information Sciences volume- 298 page – 198 – 224 [6] Hlynur Stefansson (2011), ―Discrete and continuous time representations and mathematical models for large production scheduling problems: A case study from the pharmaceutical industry‖, European Journal of Operational Research volume-215 page- 383–392 [7]Z.X. Guo (2013), ―Modeling and Pareto optimization of multi- objective order scheduling problems in production planning ‖, Computers & Industrial Engineering volume-64 page-972–986 [8]T. Stock, G. Seliger (2015), ―Multi-objective Shop Floor Scheduling Using Monitored Energy Data‖, Procedia CIRP 26 page-510 –515 | 27,307 | 10,318 | 0.000098 |
warc | 201704 | Fixed-Effects and Related Estimators for Correlated Random-Coefficient and Treatment-Effect Panel Data Models
I derive conditions under which a class of fixed-effects estimators consistently estimates the population-averaged slope coefficients in panel data models with individual-specific slopes, where the slopes are allowed to be correlated with the covariates. In addition to including the usual fixed-effects estimator, the results apply to estimators that eliminate individual-specific trends. I apply the results, and propose alternative estimators, to estimation of average treatment in a class of nonlinear unobserved-effects models. © 2005 President and Fellows of Harvard College and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
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warc | 201704 | Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) is constantly changing, to keep ahead of your competition you need to stay abreast of all the latest techniques.
Let’s take a look at some of the new
SEO techniques for 2015. Mobile-friendly websites are now essential.
Mobile traffic is ever increasing, just take a look at the number of mobile visitors on your own sites and compare that with data from 12 months ago.
You will see a remarkable increase.
On February 26 2015 Google even announced that starting April 21 2015, mobile friendly websites will definitely become a ranking signal.
This change will have a significant impact on search results for non-mobile-friendly websites.
You will also now notice, Google have decided to add a ‘mobile-friendly’ label to their mobile search results.
HTTPS as a ranking signal.
As you may remember, in August 2014 Google announced that they were going to use
HTTPS encryption as a ranking signal.
This means that (if all other factors are equal) secure websites will rank higher than their non-http equivalents.
At the time of the announcement, Google stated:
“HTTPS would only be a very lightweight signal within the overall ranking algorithm”
Presumably, this was to allow website owners enough time to make the transition.
Google went on to say:
“Over time, we may decide to strengthen it, because we’d like to encourage all website owners to switch from HTTP to HTTPS to keep everyone safe on the web”
So, nearly 12 months on, we’d say if you haven’t already, you really should be looking to purchase an SSL-Certificate and make the switch.
Conclusion.
For the most part,
SEO will still come down to the age-old techniques.
Quality content, powerful links and accessibility for users and search engines.
Nevertheless, as outlined, some things have indeed changed.
If you haven’t already, before 2015 is out, we’d highly recommend purchasing an SSL-Certificate and making the switch to
HTTPS, and also provide your visitors with a mobile-friendly website. | 2,074 | 1,048 | 0.000995 |
warc | 201704 | For the third time this month I’ve locked myself out of my online banking facility. Each time I have run over the limit of making three mistakes in my password. A very polite note explained that I would not be able to use the account until I phoned the bank, who would sort it out for me.
It so happens that in the past few months my memory has taken a beating from the chemotherapy and radiotherapy I’ve been receiving. But even without those side effects, it isn’t uncommon for people to forget names, words, phrases, numbers. It’s a perfectly ordinary aspect of growing older. I am almost 68. Yesterday we had some friends round to lunch and every one of us – even those younger by half than me – had to pause over people and titles, while the others tried to help narrow the options down. I remembered a game we used to play, in which one person thought of a person or an object and the other had to guess what they were thinking of by asking questions to which only the answers ‘yes’ or ‘no’ were allowed. The game was preparation for now.
To overcome our various degrees of distress or embarrassment we laughed gently at the forgotten word and assured each other that we did it all the time. ‘It’s just the effect of ageing’ someone said as if the sentence was a ramp. It happened several times at yesterday’s lunch. This laughter is like a blanket – soft, very fine wool, gossamer – that falls over the silent moment of forgetting, and the speaker can proceed either to offer clues to themselves and others (you know, she married so and so, that man who used to live in Scotland and then was killed in a car crash in New York – him.) Or to delete what has now become an unnecessary detail (‘oh, one of those reality show people. It doesn’t matter. Anyway…’) and the story can continue. Inside, our hearts are breaking at the enormity of the lost word. We are kind to each other, even the younger ones, because we know, we all know, what this forgetting because we’re not as young as we used to be, really means.
I don’t speak much French, but I know enough to translate
la petite mort as ‘orgasm’. It’s a shame that it can’t be used to depict each of these forgetting moments. Little deaths. Tip of the tongue. Oh, I nearly had it. Each one a petite mort. All the lost words: like the lost boys in Peter Pan, locked out of their homes, left behind in a store, who become Peter Pan’s guards of honour, who live together in Never Land. Elizabeth Taylor, last Friday morning, the blue velvet dress, lees, Honda Civic, William James; some of them are recalled by you or another around the table. But the ones that never reach beyond your own boundaries surely become another lost boy. Forgotten, accumulated, denied importance, laughed out of the conversation. More lost boys to lead their own lives.
But that’s an evasion too. Elizabeth, the Honda civic, William James, the lees you notice as you finish a bottle of wine, once lost and even if remembered as you are taking off your make-up after everyone’s gone, fall like Tetris tiles, and, practice makes perfect, more accurately in place each time, to make a wall. Fall like leaves so that as you wake each morning and look at the birch tree outside the window, it looks increasingly depleted until one morning, after a particularly stormy autumn night, you wake and you keep your eyes shut for as long as possible, because you know, things being what they are, the world being as it is, that when you open them, you will see entirely naked branches. Well, of course, it’s pretty much winter. What did you expect?
So I had a thought about writing a book for the elderly, the old. Those who have lost their words more comprehensively than the friends around our lunch table, but haven’t lost themselves entirely. A book about where all the words go, where after a time they find the others and collaborate to make sentences. Not grammatical sentences, because there are always some words that stick in the mind. Mostly, nouns, verbs, and adjectives disappear, at least at first. The names, the actions, the descriptions that make meaning of what we see and think. That allow us to express the world to others. So the book would be quite short to begin with and grow as more and more words found their way from the tip of the tongue to Never Land. Words put out to grass, like fine old working horses. Perhaps the elderly reader would come upon a word that is familiar and point to it. Perhaps it would be a day of hearing only the sounds the reader makes with the words that mean no more than a falling Tetris brick or a single leaf drifting down from a birch tree. After all, the very young have no words and books are written for them. If the very young can soak up the sound of a word that has no meaning for it, why not the old.
There is a problem of course. We write books for the very young with the intention that they should learn about the names, actions and descriptions of the world they suddenly have found themselves in. The book of lost words is more like a clearing away. Like hoovering up dead leaves, or building walls that have nothing behind them. The child’s book is the book of becoming. The book for the elderly is the book of going. It had better be the most beautiful book ever made. | 5,437 | 2,604 | 0.000397 |
warc | 201704 | Charles Grant of the London-based think tank CER has written a piece entitled “Can national parliaments make the EU more legitimate?” Of course, having posed that question, Grant does not actually fully nail his colours to the mast as to whether he actually thinks national parliaments will help the EU become more legitimate. The piece instead contains imprecise thinking, and a lack of theoretical rigour. In fact all of it is rather typical of this debate about national parliaments’ role in the EU decision making.
As far as I am concerned this national parliaments and the EU thing is based on two false premises that need to be challenged. The first is that national parliaments are necessarily more trusted than the European Parliament is, and the second is that national parliaments actually give a damn about the EU.
In the latest EU Barometer (from Autumn 2012), 28% of Europeans say they trust their national parliaments (p. 39 of the PDF here), versus 27% who trust their national governments. Meanwhile 44% “tend to trust” the European Parliament (p. 71 of the same PDF). So Grant’s case that greater involvement of national parliaments is necessary to legitimise the EU does not really hold true. Also only in 2 Member States – Denmark and the Netherlands – do people trust their parliaments significantly more than governments.
Secondly, if you are a member of a national parliament, why should you actually
care about EU matters? Experience to date seems to show that unless it’s something major – like Eurozone bailouts and votes on that in the German Bundestag – national parliaments actually are pretty lousy at using the powers they currently have in EU affairs. I explore some of the reasons for this here. National parliaments could better scrutinise ministers before they go to Council meetings, and hold them to account, but that’s hard and time consuming work. Why do that, rather than be pictured meeting some children in the local school, or talking about healthcare? Grant seems to completely miss this point in his piece – no new forum of national parliamentarians is needed. They do not collaborate because they have no incentive to do so, not because they lack the forum to do so.
Grant criticises the European Parliament thus: “But few voters are aware of the Parliament’s good work and many of them are sceptical that MEPs represent their interests; a lot of MEPs have little connection to national political systems.” But he fails to examine why this is so, or indeed work out how things could work differently.
The basic problem with the European Parliament is not its lack of powers
per se, because it is a full co-legislator. But the European Parliament lacks the power to shape the direction of European integration in any way that could be understandable to a voter. It does not comply with Schumpeter’s basic four points of a functioning party political system*:
Parties present programmes
Voters make an informed choice between competing parties The successful party puts its programme into practice The governing party judged on its successes at the next election
This is at the heart of the issue of why the European Parliament, and indeed the EU as a whole – it does not function as a representative democracy in the way any other level of representative democracy does, and the only way to improve the input legitimacy of the EU is to address this issue (by making the Commission dependent on the outcome of the European elections for example).
Trying to make the EU more legitimate through emphasising the role of national parliaments is the wrong issue to address. So, Charles, here is the one word answer to the question you pose in the title of your piece:
NO.
* – Adapted from Schumpeter, J.A. [1943] (1976),
Capitalism, Socialism and Democracy, 5 th Edition, London, Allen & Unwin, quoted in Judge, D. & Earnshaw, D., The European Parliament
[UPDATE – 1955]
Turns out that writing this rubbish for CER was not enough, but he has followed it up on Comment is Free as well. Sorry Charles, but this is poor. | 4,173 | 1,977 | 0.000521 |
warc | 201704 | In this week’s chapter, the discussion focused around how curriculum is shaped by social forces. There are many ways that the school influences the community. These influences include citizenship, intellectualism, and vocational preparation. And society influences schools through parental involvement, tradition, textbooks, laws, religion and moral values, research, poverty, changes in family structure, and multicultural issues.
Please respond to ONE of the following in the comments section.
What is a topic discussed in the chapter that you had not considered as part of curriculum? How has this chapter changed your mind about the topic’s impact on curriculum?
OR
What evidence do you have that your school’s culture affects its curriculum? | 767 | 459 | 0.00224 |
warc | 201704 | Throughout my life, I thought Memorial Day was just a day to remember the dead, a day off and a banking holiday. I didn’t learn in a class or was ever told what Memorial Day is and why we celebrate it. So let’s educate those who don’t know, including myself.
What is Memorial Day and why do we celebrate it?
“Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in service of the United States of America.” -USMemorialDay.org
Originally to celebrate the dead who fell from the Civil War. Decoration Day was officially proclaimed May 5, 1868 to be celebrated May 30th. First celebrated by New York in 1873. After World War I, Decoration Day changed from honoring those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any way. Now called Memorial day, it’s now observed in almost every state on the last Monday in May. Congressional passage of the National Holiday Act of 1971 helped ensure a three day weekend for Federal holidays.
How do we celebrate Memorial Day?
Although the pool and a BBQ for this warm holiday sounds like fun, many cities celebrate with a parade. It’s appropriate to visit cemeteries and memorials and pay your respects. Memorial Day is also the unofficial beginning of summer as temperatures rise and schools are out till the fall.
What’s the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day?
Memorial Day is celebrated in May and was originally in honor of those who died fighting in the Civil War.
Veterans Day is celebrated in November and began as Armistice Day to honor the end of World War I.
A great way to celebrate Veterans who are alive?
Just because a family member didn’t die as a result of service to the United States, doesn’t mean you should leave them out on Memorial Day. Invite them to your BBQ or pool party and ask them about some good positive stories about their service.
-Written by Valerie Michel Buck
Originally the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944, known as the GI Bill, was created to provide benefits for returning WWII Veterans. These benefits included low-cost mortgages, low-interest loans to start a business, tuition payments of tuition and living expenses to attend a university, high school or vocational education.
In 1973, the Veterans Educational Assistance Program and Montgomery GI Bill was enacted to induce enlistment in the military (which now is voluntary). Veterans received assistance from 1976-1987 through the two bills.
In 1985, the Montgomery GI Bill expanded and replaced the Veterans Educational Assistance Program for those who served after July 1, 1985.
In 2008, the Montgomery GI Bill again expanded. It was at this time the Veterans Administration (VA) began to manage the benefit internally rather than using an outside contractor.
In December of 2010, the GI Bill evolved into the Post-9/11 Veterans Education Assistance Improvements Act of 2010. This bill expanded eligibility to include members of the National Guard (full-time Active Guard and Reserve), however still excluding Coast Guard Reserve. The new GI Bill includes items such as enrollment periods, Spousal GI Bill eligibility, and changes in tuition cap.
GI Bill Eligibility
Active & Veteran
Active Duty: 90 days of aggregate Active Duty Service after Sept 10, 2001 and are still on active duty.
Or
Veteran: Honorably discharged or were discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days.
Payable for 15 years following your release from active duty.
Active Duty Members & Reservists: http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/montgomery_bill.asp
Vocational Rehab: http://www.benefits.va.gov/vocrehab/index.asp
Post-9/11 GI Bill Info: http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/post911_gibill.asp
GI Bill Abuse & Fixes
For profit colleges have been targeting GI Bill recipients aggressively. These for profit colleges include many household named colleges. These for profit colleges high costs are causing GI Bill recipient’s to completely deplete their GI Bill Benefits. Though VA has put a tuition cap on for profit tuition benefits, GI Bill recipients are not often told the total cost of tuition, books, etc. and are forced to take out student loans. Many of the student loans GI Bill recipients receive are done so without knowledge or consent, causing higher rates or defaults on those student loans.
Between 2009 and 2011, institutions like the University of Phoenix and DeVry took 37% of GI Bill educational funds, resulting in only 25% of veterans being education. Graduation rate at private for-profit institutions is only 28%. [4] “At 8 of the 10 for-profits that take in the most GI Bill cash, more than half of students drop out within a year of matriculation.” [3] If those GI Bill recipients choose to transfer to another school, they are also finding that credits from many for profit schools will not transfer to private schools or non accredited institutions.
For those who are facing graduation and looking forward to the college’s promised job placement, many for profit colleges have misled graduates who are facing upcoming unemployment. “Many students find that prospective employers and graduate schools won’t take their coursework seriously since most for-profits lack accreditation from legitimate academic bodies.” [3]
In April 2012, President Obama signed the Executive Order 13607, Establishing Principles of Excellence for Educational Institutions Serving Service Members, Veterans, Spouses, and Other Family Members. This Executive Order is helping to put an end to deceptive and misleading marketing that targeted service members, veterans, spouses and the benefits they receive from the GI Bill. Additionally, the term “GI Bill” was trademarked by the VA, limiting marketing practices of colleges so they didn’t appear to be government affiliated institutions. [4]
Read the Executive Order 13607: https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-05-02/pdf/2012-10715.pdf
Do you feel your GI Bill Funds have been abused? You can complain directly to VA: http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/feedback.asp
GI Bill Benefit Payout Rates
Apply for GI Bill
Choose a School
Use the VA to find a school: http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/
-Written by Valerie Michel Buck | 6,339 | 2,894 | 0.000354 |
warc | 201704 | Since the tender age of 5, I have been fascinated by dinosaurs. It was never so much the treasure-hunter aspect of paleontology that attracted me to this science, but rather the thrill of reconstructing long-dead animals and breathing life into old bones. In other words, I am a zoologist and anatomist at heart who happens to be fascinated by dinosaurs. I see dinosaurs as living animals, and I want to reconstruct how these animals moved and behaved when their bones were still pulsing with blood.
To get a bit technical, my research combines traditional descriptive and anatomical study with computer-aided morphometric analysis and modeling of vertebrate skeletons. The focus of my research is limb functional morphology in dinosaurs, as well as the broader locomotor and evolutionary implications of size. I am particularly interested in the evolution and locomotor adaptations of the giant, terrestrial sauropod dinosaurs. These long-necked herbivores attained sizes no other dinosaurian or mammalian group has ever approached on land; part of sauropod success as giants may be tied to limb morphology and specializations.
On a bit of a philosophical note, as I tell my children and students, nothing worth doing in life is easy. That is certainly true for the field of paleontology. I have been fortunate in having parents who supported my dreams even though they were not scientists or academics, and that helped tremendously. I was also fortunate to marry another academic who understands the quirkiness and obsession of this type of career. In fact, paleontology and academics in general tend to be less of an occupation than a vocation. You pursue this type of career because you love it.
There is a saying that working at making your dreams reality takes the work out of the courage, and I certainly follow that philosophy. As with many of us who go into basic scientific research, there were many personal and professional challenges to overcome, and I’m sure the future holds more of the same. However, I wouldn’t have it any other way: I feel lucky and grateful to be someone who has their dream job. My role in the discovery of two new dinosaurs has been one of the greatest, recent rewards of this career, and my inner 5-year-old very much approves.
And now, the vital statistics:
Education Associates of Science (Earth Science), College of DuPage, Glen Ellyn, IL, 1993 Bachelors of Science (Geological Sciences [Major], Biological Sciences [Minor]), University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 1995 Ph.D. (Biological Sciences), Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL, 2001 Professional Positions Current Position: Associate Professor, Biology Program, Stockton University Associate Professor, Dept. Biological Sciences, Western Illinois University, 2001-2012 Zoology Associate, Dept. Zoology, Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago, IL, 2004-2012 Adjunct Curator of Vertebrate Fossils, Burpee Museum of Natural History, Rockford, IL, 2010-2012 | 2,986 | 1,509 | 0.000666 |
warc | 201704 | CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — When does a scientific conference warrant the attention of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Homeland Security? When the topic is synthetic biology.
Both of those federal agencies turned out on May 1 to monitor the proceedings here at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology — and a representative from the F.B.I. even spoke. Their attendance, as well as a lively discussion about the science and ethics of synthetic biology, sheds light on how much attention is being focused on this rapidly advancing field of science.
Synthetic biology, a 20-year-old engineering pursuit that tries to extend the genetic code with artificial nucleotides, promises to produce advances in medical therapies, materials and biological computing akin to animal and human cognition.
The field received new impetus this week when researchers at the Scripps Research Institute published a paper in the journal Nature, saying they had created an organism by adding artificial genetic code to its DNA — specifically, two new nucleotides that they named X and Y, in addition to the existing natural nucleotides of A, C, G and T.
As Andrew Pollack reported in The New York Times, “The accomplishment might eventually lead to organisms that can make medicines or industrial products that cells with only the natural genetic code cannot.”
Alicia Jackson, a former Massachusetts Institute of Technology materials scientist, presented her work in this field at the symposium, organized by the Center for Bits and Atoms, an M.I.T. research group that focuses on new design and manufacturing technologies.
Dr. Jackson has a new Defense Department project that she has named Living Foundries. In April, the Pentagon’s Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency underscored the significance of the project when they created an office, the Biological Technologies Office, with Dr. Jackson as deputy director.
“What we’re interested in is how to harness the power of biology to make materials,” she said in her symposium presentation. “The goal of Living Foundries is to start speaking about how do we use biology to create things like polymers and catalysts as well as really new types of materials.”
Neil Gershenfeld, a physicist who is the director of the Center for Bits and Atoms, said that the improvement in the capacity to read and write biological genes has given rise to the possibility of “spectacular advances,” like the ability to use a computer to design a complete genome, output it, insert it in a cell and in effect create life from scratch.
The new abilities, he noted, raised ethical questions that are as yet unanswered.
“When the ability to convert biology to data and data into biology becomes that cheap, that agile, that easy to do, what are the consequences?” he said.
He added, “The most exciting and frightening thing I saw this morning was a slide talking about designing and synthesizing genomes next to a slide describing a human being.”
These kinds of concerns would explain the presence of the federal law enforcement representatives. In his own presentation, the F.B.I. agent, Carmine Nigro, bluntly warned, “These technologies do not just pose a risk to individual buildings or cities, but if cleverly deployed, can reduce our population by significant percentages.”
“That,” he said, “is a responsibility that we owe as members of the intelligence community and hope you will share with us.”
Other speakers included biologists, physicists, computer scientists and mechanical engineers who outlined new design techniques, applications like ones for personalized medical treatments and ambitious efforts to revive extinct species such as the passenger pigeon and the woolly mammoth.
George Church, a Harvard biologist and a pioneer in sequencing the human genome, spoke about what he described as the creation of “radical new genomes.”
“Why do we want to make radical new genomes, rather than making subtle changes that might be sufficient?” he asked. The advantages, he said, include the ability to design new safeguards, new virus resistance and new chemistry.
John Glass, a member of the group at the J. Craig Venter Institute that in 2010 fabricated the first synthetic cell, described his current research.
“It inspired our group to go on from this initial synthetic organism to try to build what we refer to as a ‘true minimal cell,'” he said. Building such a living organism will be an invaluable aid to deeper understanding of basic biological processes, he declared.
Ryan Phelan, a biotechnology entrepreneur, described the efforts of Revive and Restore, a project of the Long Now Foundation, a San Francisco nonprofit dedicated to making “long-term thinking” more common. The project is trying to use genetic engineering techniques to restore the passenger pigeon, a migratory bird that flocked by the billions in the United States before the turn of the last century. The species was hunted out of existence after the invention of the telegraph and railroad made it possible for humans to efficiently track the birds.
She described the increasing rate of “extinction events,” particularly ones affecting bird species.
“The field of conservation is at a low point,” she said. “All you hear is bad stories. What we’re trying to do is bring an influx of technology and hope to the field of conservation.”
But the risks and concerns involved in synthetic biology were made clear by an absence, as much as by the presence of the law enforcement officials and the ambitious aspirations of the scientists who presented. Huanming Yang, chairman of Beijing Genomics Institute, the world’s largest sequencing research institute, was scheduled to deliver the keynote address at the event but was denied a visa by the United States government.
In his absence, the institute’s research was described by Laurie Goodman, editor of Gigascience, a data science journal. She noted that the inclusion of the Chinese research group in the Human Genome Project was the first such Chinese involvement in an international scientific collaboration.
“Ten years later, B.G.I. was one of the largest genomics research institutes in the world and now it’s global,” she said.
The day after the symposium, Dr. Church participated in a public conversation at the M.I.T. Media Laboratory, where he is now a visiting fellow. In contrast to the technical focus of the previous day’s symposium, he discussed some of the more speculative possibilities of the new technologies.
Last year, he noted, he was able to encode the text of his book about synthetic biology, “Regenesis,” into DNA, and then grow more than 70 million copies, in effect printing more than the sum of the 100 most popular books ever written. He said that the new method had attracted attention from archivists, who were looking for better technologies to preserve human culture. Not only does such a technique offer longer-lasting storage, but it is more than a million times denser than today’s electronic storage technologies.
All in all, he said, the concerns about gene therapy are overstated.
“When it does get to the point where it is incredibly cheap to do it, it will also be incredibly cheap to reverse it, as well,” he said. “We’re augmented and we need to get used to it.” | 7,564 | 3,489 | 0.000298 |
warc | 201704 | "Democrats think caring means a government program. Trump thinks caring is getting to keep your job, just as he promised.
President Clinton said, “I feel your pain.”
President Franklin Roosevelt had "fireside chats.”
And now President-elect Donald Trump is reaching out to forgotten Americans with a message that he cares about their problems, and wants to help.
This could be the Democrats’ worst nightmare.
As Walter Russell Mead notes in The American Interest,
it’s an old style of politicking that more recent politicos seem to have forgotten.
Trump’s Carrier event saved only a tiny fraction of jobs that are being lost around the country, and it might not make much difference in the long run, but that wasn’t the point.
The point was “that the people at the top are aware of the problems of the people at the bottom," Mead writes.
"It’s smart governance, but it’s something that the technocratic progressive mind tends to undervalue.”
...Trump, by contrast, promised to save Carrier jobs during the campaign and then, even though
Obama mocked him for it at the PBS town hall (“What are you going to do? ... What magic wand do you have?”)
Trump then went ahead and delivered.
A conspicuously kept campaign promise that benefits the little guy sends a signal of caring that talk of macroeconomics does not.
FDR knew this.
His New Deal economic policies were mostly snake oil — according to a study by UCLA economists, they actually prolonged the Great Depression by seven years.
But F
DR made people feel like he cared,even though he was a rich man from New York who had never been poor himself. Now another rich man from New York seems to be repeating the formula.
FDR gave the Democrats two decades of political dominance.
Today’s Democrats should be worrying that Trump could do the same for the Republican Party." | 1,923 | 1,034 | 0.001021 |
warc | 201704 | ==> If you didn't follow last week's advice you may soon need this week's advice
It can happen to every dog owner What to do if our dog injured someone!
Last week's Periodical ended with How Can We Prevent that Our GSD Harms Someone for No Good Reason?
Now this week's Periodical perfectly continues with: "But what if we were
unable to prevent an injury of someone?"
In this Periodical:
How likely are injuries inflicted by dogs? How likely is it to get sued as a dog owner? Who pays for a dog bite injury or non-bite injury? Crucial differences when our dog (supposedly) injured someone Best practice to react when we sawthat our dog injured someone Best practice to react when we get a personal injury claim Best practice to react when the police or animal control gets involved How likely are injuries inflicted by dogs?
Important to accept is that it can happen to
any dog owner (even the most decent citizens), with any dog breed or mix (even the tiny Chihuahua!) that we were unable to prevent an injury of someone inflicted by our dog.
No matter how much you and I take care, if we are unlucky then one day it can happen that our dog (supposedly) injured someone.
The word
supposedly already indicates: Our dog need not even be at fault, but we may get sued anyway! And the past tense injured indicates: We may not have been around at the time of the incident, but we are told so later.
Also, it's not always about dog bites, personal injury claims can be brought upon us without any dog bite at all!
Examples of typical dog injury situations that do
not involve a dog bite: Third party got scared, stepped back, fell and broke rips etc Third party panicked and got heart attack Third party was pushed by dog jumping up, and suffered fractures or inner body injuries, or a 'trauma' (whether alleged or de facto)
Note that in none of these situations (and countless other) the dog was vicious, not even dangerous; in fact the dog may have been cheerful and friendly to the third party (and always is), or jumped up simply to greet or play.
Also note that direct contact between our dog and the third party is not necessary, we may get sued without any dog-person contact whatsoever!
Because the third party suffered an injury while our dog was in his or her vicinity. That's enough. - Of course, it doesn't even need that:
Really mean people may just claim that our dog caused their injury, because they know from the neighborhood that we have a dog (but they may not even have seen the dog).
Although the latter case is rare, it makes something very clear:
Who is most at risk of a dog-inflicted injury? Children The elderly Postmen/women
Children between the ages of 5 and 9 are 900 times more likely to be bitten by a dog than postmen/women!!
US-cities with most dog attacks against postal workers:
Los Angeles San Antonio Seattle Chicago San Francisco Philadelphia
According to dogsbite.org, in the 8-year period from 2005 to 2012, pitbulls killed 151 Americans and thus accounted for 60% of the total recorded dog-bite-related fatalities (DBRFs) - which were 251. Combined, pitbulls and rottweilers accounted for 73% of the 251 deaths in the 8-year timespan: 183 deaths (or 23 annually on average).
I compared this to
Animal People's report (which is based on media reports) which featured in our last week's Periodical Are German Shepherds dangerous, and again it shows: You cannot just blindly trust any statistic!
If both
dogsbite and Animal People were correct, it would mean that during 2005 to 2012 (8 years) pitbulls killed 151 people, but during 1982 to 2004 (23 years!) 'just' 56!? Dog Bite Treatment
Similarly questionable is: "1 of every 6 dog bite injuries requires medical care, 1 of every 14 requires emergency care."
If 5 of 6 dog bite injuries aren't even recorded because they don't require medical care, then how can we know that 1 of 6 dog bite injuries
does require medical care??
Anyway, statistics are always interesting, so we show them!
Statistics from Insurers however are
reliable (unless they fake them intentionally), because insurers wouldn't be in business couldn't they accurately assess risk.
Since most reconstructive surgeries are probably paid for by an insurer, this figure is probably fairly correct: In 2006, more than 31,000 people underwent reconstructive surgery as a result of being bitten by dogs. Shocking, really!
Among adults, males are more likely than females to be bitten. Among children 4 years of age and younger, almost two thirds of injuries are to the head or neck region!!
Injury rates in children are significantly higher for boys than for girls. Presumably boys tease dogs more often, or they are more out and about?
Not a real surprise is this statistic: Adults with two or more dogs in the household are five times more likely to be bitten than those living
without dogs at home, doh!
- Yes, dogs
do bite their owner or family pack members too, and this we will address in another special Periodical next week. How likely is it to get sued as a dog owner? Top dog expertsays:
Find out more: Click to save vet cost, training cost, and your nerves!
In highly litigious nations (like primarily the USA) this risk is
much higher than in nations where a high payout to the victim typically doesn't happen anyway (like say in India).
The more lucrative a lawsuit looks, the more lawyers (attorneys/solicitors) will compete to be awarded the case by the client. Conversely, where lawyers - based on past experience - believe that:
a case has no chance to win in court or the payout will be insignificant even if the case wins in court(!)
...then no sensible lawyer will take on the case.
The situation is slightly different if a prosecutor gets involved because the circumstances of the incident suggest that our dog poses a risk to the general public and criminal charges should be made. Example:
According to CDC (US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) at least 4.7 million Americans are bitten by dogs every year. But only 800,000 (17%) of those dog bite victims seek medical attention (half of them are children). Insurance companies however pay out on less than 1% of the cases.
Since insurers won't pay out if not even medical attention was sought, we can infer that the "less than 1%" payout rate relates to the figure of 800,000 dog bite cases that get medical attention. This means that 'only' 8,000 dog bite injuries a year end with a payout of an insurance company.
The
total amount paid out by US insurance companies for dog-inflicted injuries in 2012 was $479 million on 16,700 cases. Which means that a further 8,700 successful injury claims did not involve a dog bite.
This is important to grasp:
The list of "
Top 10 states of dog injury claims" has been publicized everywhere in the US media, but that list is meaningless because it lists the US states with the highest total claim payouts. Who cares about the total here??
Instead, what really matters is of course: What's the average
individual payout in such claims? On average, how much money would a successful claim against our dog cost us?
So we created a new Top 10 list that matters, one that sheds light on this topic.
US states with the highest settlements in dog-inflicted injury claims:
Rank US State Average Payout Per Claim! 1 Florida $57,724 2 New York $55,172 3 California $37,916 4 Michigan $30,464 5 Pennsylvania $27,273 6 Georgia $27,273 7 Illinois $26,706 8 Ohio $21,277 9 Indiana $18,243 10 Texas $18,220
Data source: State Farm Dog Bite Claims 2011 - Calculations by mygermanshepherd.org
Average payout over
all claims for this insurer (all states): $28,684 per claim in 2011, $25,714 per claim in 2010 - ie a 11.5% increase in just one year!
The national average (all insurers) is even slightly higher: $29,396 per claim on average.
In other words: If you live in the USA, then have at least $30,000 ready at hand just in case your dog ever (supposedly) injures someone. - Or else: be insured.
Who pays for a dog bite injury or non-bite injury?
If we are
not insured, we have to pay ourselves, doh! This can amount to a LOT of cash, see above.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, dog bites account for over a third of all homeowners insurance liability claims!
In the USA and Canada, dogs are typically insured via home insurance -
unless the home insurer excludes liability for the dog, which is increasingly the case for dogs that are considered 'dangerous dogs'.
Now sit tight: It says there that the 'usual suspects' on insurers' lists of dangerous dogs include:
YOU know that this is of course ridiculous: Since you saw last week's Periodical Are German Shepherds dangerous, you know that GSDs are not dangerous by any comparable standard.
But law enforcement officers, insurers, etc don't know this (don't believe it) - because no one has told them to study our Periodicals!!
In Europe including the UK it is common practice to have a distinct liability dog insurance because:
it's just common sense not to ruin your no claims bonus of your home insurance when your dog injures someone and likewise not to ruin your no claims bonus of your dog liability insurance when your home insurance has to pay out.
How it is say in India and other parts of Asia I personally don't know. In Australia it's probably like in the UK: distinct dog liability insurance.
As always, your input is welcome! YOURS, yes. Just click the new fixed-position Comment button. You may now even post comments per email(!) once you subscribed to a comment thread. An awesome new feature, in my opinion.
For a victim, the usual method of getting medical reimbursement is through the liability dog insurance - or for North America, through the dog owner's home insurance policy (if they have one).
Most homeowner's insurance policies in the USA provide $100,000 to $300,000 in liability coverage, but in Europe the amount of the distinct liability dog insurance is typically
much higher (rather 2 million Pound or Euro!), because there in many nations the forgone lifetime earnings of the victim are the basis for the claim (eg in Germany).
If the dog owner is renting and doesn't have a homeowner's liability insurance (in the USA), or doesn't have a distinct dog liability insurance (in Europe), then the victim is usually out of luck(!) -
unless the landlord or property owner can be held liable, which in the USA somewhat automatically is the case if the landlord or property owner has ever received a written letter of concern from any individual!
Meaning: If you as home owner (of the home in which you live or of a house that you rent out) ever get an inconspicuous letter that someone is concerned about your dog, be wary:
Dog owners that did not put up 'dangerous dog' signs on their property in many states/nations have successfully been sued when their dog injured someone on their property!
This legal logic is similar to: If you know that your dog bites, you
must have your dog wear a muzzle outdoors. What to do if not insured?
So what can you do if you checked your insurance policy(ies), and you realize that you
don't have (sufficient) liability cover for your German Shepherd?
Either because:
your home insurer withdrewdog liability cover (as is increasingly the case in eg the USA) or because you rent and don't have a homeowner's insurance anyway or your policy doesinclude cover but you realize that the limit is inadequate
Meanwhile there are a few solutions available, and this market is growing in line with home insurers increasingly excluding dog liability:
Umbrella policy Excess policy Canine liability policy
An
umbrella policy provides liability coverage for injuries, damages and losses that are not covered by a person's primary insurance (eg an umbrella would cover a dog bite that is not covered by the dog owner's homeowner policy).
An
excess policy provides a higher policy limit for losses that are covered by the primary insurance.
A
canine liability policy is a policy written specifically for dog owners who do not have (or did not get) cover for their dog(s).
The usual solution for dog owners was to purchase an umbrella policy. If you have homeowner insurance or renters insurance, and it does not cover canine inflicted injures, talk to your insurance agent about purchasing a
personal umbrella liability policy and explicitely mention that it must cover your German Shepherd.
Why? Because it is likely that GSDs are on the insurer's list of 'dangerous dogs' (see above), which means your GSD would
silently be excluded from cover, and so you'd be paying insurance premiums without being insured!
There is no standard form for this kind of policy, but generally the form requires the maintenance of underlying homeowners and auto liability policies with minimum combined single liability limits of $300,000 each.
The important point is to ascertain that the
umbrella policy under consideration does include cover for canine inflicted injuries for owners of a German Shepherd Dog.
If this is refused, or it turns out to be too expensive, do enquire about the purchase of a policy of
canine liability insurance.
Do not be put off by statements that specialty insurance policies for dog inflicted injuries would be cost-prohibitive. They are normally not: In Europe
canine liability coverage are the standard policies.
Here are a few sources for specialty canine liability insurers:
Important to understand: Some specialty canine liability insurers insure any dog breed. This doesn't necessarily mean that they insure any dog - because often they exclude dogs with a bite history (also called bite record). An insurer that does insure any dog breed, or an insurer that does insure dogs with a bite history, typically is cost-prohibitive for owners of a German Shepherd Dog withoutbite history. As owner of a GSD that does not have a bite record, to get the cheapest insurance you must ensure that the insurer does not allocate your policy to a plan (group of insured) that includes either of the above! For a German Shepherd without bite record you should get a standard policy(also called manuscript policy or form policy), not a specific policy (also called customized policy or tailored policy). The latter are typically for pitbull class dogs and dogs with a bite history.
In the USA, canine liability insurance normally costs $450 to $2,500 a year, because many of these
specialty insurers owe their existance to pitbull advocates (Einhorn admit this openly). As you may know, Pitbulls are extremely expensive to insure. Hence why I said, avoid such policy plans (group of insured). What's the law?
Some states/nations are governed by a
One Bite rule, which typically requires the victim to prove the dog owner knew or should have known that the dog is dangerous (eg because there was a previous bite) in order to receive compensation.
To lay the burden of proof onto the victim is of course a strange view of the legal system's advocates (as so often). How possibly can a victim prove this,
unless the owner has put up an indicative sign??
Other states/nations impose
statutory strict liability, making a dog owner outright fully liable to a victim who was injured by a dog.
In the USA most states impose this - except: Oregon, Nevada, Idaho, Wyoming, New Mexico, North and South Dakota, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Mississippi, North Carolina, Virginia, and Vermont.
However, almost every state has made amendments to the strict liability, so legal advice should be sought if your GSD has injured someone.
Fourteen states and the District of Columbia require owners of dogs that have been labeled
dangerous or vicious - or in some cases, potentially dangerous - to buy pet liability insurance: Delaware, Georgia, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.
Another important legal concept is that of
residential exclusion. It omits liability when the attack occurs on the dog owner's property - unless the victim can provide the same burden of proof that is required by the One Bite rule. Residential exclusion prevents the majority of dog bite victims from receiving compensation: in the USA over 50% of all dog bites occur on the dog owner's property! I assume, this figure is very different in densely populated Europe, where dog owners often have no other chance than to walk their dog around the block (neighborhood, woods, wherever).
So basically, in states/nations with a
One Bite rule or residential exclusion, it seems it would not be smart to put up any sign that could be construed to indicate that you know your dog is dangerous.
But if your dog
actually is 'dangerous' - particularly if the dog has once bitten in the past - then of course safeguard the public:
Put up warning signs
Use a muzzle. But then
don't get the quick-fit-style muzzle. Despite their advertising, this muzzle type isn't even comfortable in leather, it covers too much of the mouth: it's sweaty, no airflow, and a dog cannot breathe well enough when panting. The quick-fit-style muzzle should be legally forbidden, so dangerous they are!
Instead, get a basket-style muzzle made of leather or, cheaper, rubber. - Leather is the most comfortable material for dogs, that's why the 'everyday' collar should be a
leather collar.
And
gently make your dog familiar with the muzzle: Watch this video on muzzle training. Not muscle training, no.
And now really learn to train your dog like a professional! - without the cost and risk of a local trainer!
Top dog expertsays:
Find out more: Click to save vet cost, training cost, and your nerves!
Why
risk, you may wonder? Because most dog trainers - and particularly the "certified" ones - are mediocre: They do more harm to the dog, and more harm to the relationship between dog and owner, than they do good. This personal experience is supported by thousands of statements received from other dog owners here. So while your local trainer may be a great salesperson (making you feel (s)he's the best), the actual training approach typically is neither gentle nor effective - yet it certainly costs MUCH more than a TOP online dog trainer costs. Top dog expertsays:
Find out more: Click to save vet cost, training cost, and your nerves!
Pit Bull Terriers and in most cases also Staffordshire Terriers, Cane Corso, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Presa Canario, Presa Mallorquin, Rottweilers, Staffordshire Bullterriers, Tosa Inu, and Wolf Hybrids...
...
are now banned in Argentina, Bermuda, Denmark, Ecuador, France, Germany, Guyana, Israel, Liechtenstein, Malta, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Romania, Latvia, Singapore, Spain, St. Kitts and Nevis, Switzerland, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey, the UAE, United Kingdom, Venezuela, and parts of Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Ireland, Malaysia, China, and Japan.
Because they are considered
dangerous dogs by law, as opposed to by insurance policy.
Meaning, owners of these dogs are automatically deemed guilty if their dog injured someone - whether supposedly or de facto!
Thankfully, by law
German Shepherds are NOT considered dangerous dogs - although they were somewhat considered such and banned from Australia between the 1950s and 1990s, because Australian bureaucrats feared for their livestock - not realizing that GSDs actually protect livestock. Crucial differences when our dog (supposedly) injured someone
Legally, there are certain distinctions to make when our dog (supposedly) injured someone, and it's helpful that you know of these even if you were to seek paid-for legal advice:
Did the incident happen on our premises, the victim's premises, or third party premises, or on communal premises? Did the victim fall over (eg because of panic), or did our dog push the victim, or did our dog bite the victim? Was a child hurt or an adult? Are we sufficiently insured or not? Was our dog on-leash or off-leash? Were we present during the incident, or was it subsequently reported to us? Can it be argued that the incident was provoked, either by the victim itself or by a third party? Is our dog a trained protection dog or not? Has our dog a bite record, ie had there been an earlier incident? Do we have visible signs on our property that warn of a "dangerous dog"? And does our dog have all legally required vaccinations?
It is not the purpose of this
MYGERMANSHEPHERD PERIODICAL or indeed our organization to give legal advice, and every incident would need to be looked at individually and in detail anyway.
But the above list of considerations can help to ascertain an individual case should it ever arise, before you contact a lawyer or insurer. Best actually is to think about each of these points now because that can help to be more organized about your dog, and to be a responsible dog owner and citizen.
Best practice to react when we saw that our dog injured someone
This means we know for sure that any claim of the victim would be real, not fake.
Most importantly, do not discourage the victim (or their relatives) from calling the police or animal control or lawyer, or from filing a dog bite report! This would certainly bring you into much more trouble as it suggests that you have something to hide about the history of your dog, and in any case such action would be held againstyou later. If still possible, of course try to prevent any furtherinjury. Take your dog away and use a suitable leash to contain your dog say at a lamp post, tree, or whatever (here you see again, whywe always suggest certain products: they have so many useful applications!) Also, of course try to first-aid the victim if you can without injury to yourself, the victim, or a third party! But do not attempt to 'home doctor' the victim. Again, this would be held againstyou later. If the injury looks serious, immediately call the ambulance yourself! Do not worry about the consequences, these will always be much better for you if you take all of these actions, rather than trying to 'gloss over' the incident. If a child got injured, always involve a doctor/ambulance yourself (and depending on severity the police too), regardlessif the child speaks against it, because by law a child cannot discharge you from liability.
Be aware that children may sometimes
fear that their parents scold them, and so they might discourage you from involving anyone (if the injury is not too serious). Do not agree, it will be held against you later! Always make sure that an injured child gets medical care immediately.
A further reason is that if your dog actually
bit the child, then the child may have contracted an infection or may get an allergic reaction, either of which could be life-threatening. Best practice to react when we get a personal injury claim
This means we were not present during the incident, and we cannot be sure what was going on. The claim may be justified, or it may not.
In this case I would always suggest to involve your own lawyer if you have a legal insurance, because then the first consultation to get an assessment of a case will not affect your no claims bonus, and you won't have to pay the lawyer. If you don'thave a legal insurance, I would suggest to involve a lawyer anyway (if the claim seems significant), or to contact your insurer (if the claim seems not significant) - they will then involve a lawyer for you. The reason why it is not wise to outright always involve your insurer is that this can harm your policy even if the claim has no merit at all. But note that insurance policy terms do not allow you to delaynotifying your insurer. If you don'thave an insurance for your GSD either (home insurance or dog liability insurance), then I would highly recommend to get one now, before it's too late!
- Or do you have $30,000 at hand?
And possibly
much more. Eg in Germany, Switzerland, and some other 'richer' European nations the dog injury awards can reach millions, because there they consider the lost life-time earnings of the mauled or killed victim! Best practice to react when the police or animal control gets involved
This means we either were present during the incident and know what was going on, or we are being surprised that someone involved the police or animal control because of an
alleged incident with our dog.
Now it is important not to make any statement without having consulted your lawyer (whether you have legal insurance or not), because like myself you probably don't know all the law revolving around dog ownership in your state, and if you say something unsuitable you'll regret it later!
If you are a member of a German Shepherd dog club, it can be worthwile to contact them as well/instead if they have an 'urgent response' line, because larger clubs often do offer legal advice.
In any case it is certainly helpful for all situations above, if you know a bit more than the average dog owner (and law enforcement officer!) about how dangerous GSDs as a dog breed really are - hence last week's Periodical!
Knowing about the different kinds of 'bite' of a GSD, or that there is not a single recorded case (in North America at least) where a German Shepherd exhibited predatory behavior - facts like these certainly help to educate other GSD owners and non-owners about what our breed really is like.
We here should always be aware that we are not the average citizen and GSD owner. This applies to you too if you have followed our Periodicals weekly. Because then you know much more than the masses of GSD owners and non-owners out there!
You too can
help to change public perceptions, eg about the German Shepherd not being a dangerous dog breed.
A few individual cases of poorly bred and raised GSDs (and of course all cases of GSD-Wolf Hybrids!) must not be allowed to shape public perception - and thus that of insurers too.
==> Next edition: How to Save the Relationship When Your Dog Bit You! <== Can you give back a bit today?
USD | 26,102 | 10,801 | 0.000093 |
warc | 201704 | Europe is offering a comprehensive context for every European entrepreneur in order to start up their business or expand an existing one, across the boundaries of their own country, but within the European Union. Europe is offering flexible legislation to its citizens aiming to empower them, support new business ideas and strengthen the competitive advantage of Europe itself.
A start up in Europe may materialize two main concepts. Either an innovative idea that serves the market requirements in a specific country or an expansion of an existing company. Either concept employed, the potential entrepreneur can benefit a lot from a start up in Europe, but should consider carefully the specific formalities, rules and regulations that apply to the country of their choice. Several countries may employ strict regulation and even prohibit trading of certain commodities or performing of certain activities. For example, several countries ban the import of goods from third world countries, and thus if you are planning to create a startup that involves such imports you should think about it twice. Some of the important things to consider when choosing the best European country to start up your business is the number of procedural steps that are needed to begin the operation of a business and the number of days it usually takes. Another aspect is the administrative cost of starting and running a business in a certain country based on the percentage of national income per capita and lastly, the minimum amount that new business owners have to deposit with a bank.
According to the EU legislation, if you find that the required country can support the content of your business and efficiently meet your expectations you should go and register it electronically, complete application forms online and provide every document requested. The European Union has a service called Points of Single Contact (PSCs) that help businessmen deal with a variety of practical issues.
Furthermore, being a European citizen, you are entitled to some important rights. You can start up your business anywhere in Europe, including
Iceland, Norway or Liechtenstein or you can create a subsidiary branch for an existing company. If your company runs under a specific objective like environment, health or research you should consider applying for a EU funding. Your obligations may different from one country to another but generally the European Union suggests that the st-up of your company should not exceed a three day limit and cost more than 100 euros. Also, your company’s registration and related documents should be submitted online and by a single administrative party. If you are a single trader and you came up with an innovative concept you should consider registering your idea, together with the startup of your new business. European Union offers an Intellectual Property (IP) service in order to protect a wide variety of intellectual products, like patents, trademarks, industrial designs, artistic work and software design, even trading secrets or efficient know-hows and more. Intellectual Property service runs under the auspices of World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Prices to patent a product can be quite affordable, as the application and registration for a trademark can cost from 900 to 1050 €. Patents can be national or European. A European level patent can protect you across the European Union, whereas a national patent can be more effective in a particular country but cost you more money and time in the long run, if you have to resolve a dispute. From a multicultural perspective, the European Company Statute, constitutes an excellent start up idea for entrepreneurs. This type of company, also called as Societal European (SE) in Latin, was introduced in 2004 and is a public, limited-liability company that runs under EU legislation. A European Company Statute may suit you if you are running your company’s activities in more than one countries and you seek for an easier way to group them under a single European label. Also, it provides the ability to transfer your office without having to dissolve the company. Lastly, a European Company Statute offers the possibility to employ a wide range of people from all over Europe. There are four main ways to form this type of company: 1) Merging of public, limited liability companies that reside in two different European countries minimum 2) Creating of a holding company, for companies that have registered offices in two different European countries or have their headquarters in one country for at least two years but maintain subsidiary branches in another EU country 3) Subsidiary branches of one company that merge under a holding company 4) Converting a public, limited-liability company if it resides in one EU country but has maintained a subsidiary branch at some time in the past for at least two years. European countries may have different capital requirements in order to create a European Company Statute. However, the minimum capital required amounts to 120.000 euros that should be in shares.
If you consider creating a company by merging foreign companies, keep in mind that this move can be performed under three situations. A third company can buy one or more companies which transfer all their assets and dissolve but do not liquidate. Another way of merging is if two or more companies desire to merge their assets by creating a new company and also dissolve but do not liquidate. The third way of merging, is when a company decides to sell its assets and its liabilities to another company. This company must already hold its formalities and securities. This way also involves the dissolution, but not the official liquidation of the first company.
Under the EU legislation all companies involved in a merging agreement must create a document, known as common draft terms of the merger, stating the company’s name and registered offices, as well as the name of the start-up company, explaining analytically the exchange ratio of the securities and shares, the effects of the merging on the employees and more details. This document must be published one month before the companies perform their general assembly meeting. To sum up, regardless of your business goal and the type of company you want to create, you can benefit from the protection and rights provided within the European Union. You can hire people, collaborate with exquisite minds and raise your income responding to the market signals. However, you must keep in mind that rules and regulations are different across European countries and that the information provided in this article may not apply thoroughly to the country of your choice. | 6,747 | 2,870 | 0.00035 |
warc | 201704 | Infrastructure Ontario's Loan Program Expansion
Infrastructure Ontario's Loan Program helps organizations that would otherwise experience difficulty securing traditional sources of financing have access to the capital market financing they need to build, update or renew their infrastructure.
Together with its clients, Infrastructure Ontario has helped finance hundreds of infrastructure projects through the program - from the construction of roads, bridges and facilities to the acquisition of assets, such as land, vehicles or equipment.
Expansion
Not-for-profit organizations that own or operate community hubs where both community health and social services are located together are now eligible for the loan program.
Community health organizations include Community Health Centres, Aboriginal Health Access Centres, Community Mental Health & Addictions Centres, Boards of Health/public health units and Supportive Housing. Social service organizations include community agencies that are funded by the Ministry of Children and Youth Services or the Ministry of Community and Social Services, and newcomer settlement agencies.
Focusing on community health and social services hubs reinforces the government's commitment to leverage the expertise of community partners to strength the health system. By facilitating the development of community hubs, Infrastructure Ontario's Loan Program will support more efficient use of infrastructure and improve access to services.
Not-for-profit sports and recreational organizations providing sports and recreational facilities to communities throughout Ontario are also now eligible. These include sports organizations that promote amateur sports, training, fitness, wellness and sporting competitions and events.
Access to the loan program means these organizations will be better able to meet their infrastructure needs while continuing to offer quality primary health care and wellness programs.
The decision to expand the program to these new sectors comes after extensive discussions with stakeholders and ministries, and supports
Building Together, Ontario's Long-Term Infrastructure Plan's commitment to expand the eligibility of organizations that can borrow under the program.
The further extension of the Infrastructure Ontario Loan Program to the not-for-profit sector was a recommendation raised by the sector through the Partnership Project, a year-long consultation with the not-for-profit sector to improve its partnership with the Government of Ontario. This expansion addresses a desire among not-for-profits for greater collaboration within the sector and for greater access to financing through the Government of Ontario. | 2,700 | 1,160 | 0.000866 |
warc | 201704 | 00000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000
I was amazed when Ronald Reagan, who I knew then only as a second-rate actor, was elected president in 1980, and I’ve been appalled at what he and his cohort have done to the country since. I’m all the more appalled because the folks whom they’ve mainly done it TO include me, a lower-middle-class cubicle dweller.
The poor and middle class have been disproportionately affected by Republican policies over the last 30 years, as more and more of the national income and wealth has flowed upward away from them. For documentation of this, see my earlier post here:
Believe it or not, I suspected that this slow “pauperization” was happening long before the Internet came along to supply the actual statistics. The metastasizing growth of Wall-Mart and simultaneous waning of traditional department stores told me what was happening. People sliding ever downward in real income were struggling to maintain their familiar lifestyles. To do so they had to abandon shopping at traditional department stores and consign themselves to the noise, disorder, aesthetic challenges, and under-service to be found at Wal-Mart, “the price leader.” *
Periodically during that period I tried to imagine why working people were swallowing the Reagan line — approving his effort to weaken unions, worker- and consumer-health protections, anti-trust enforcement, and the like, and cutting taxes for the most wealthy taxpayers, plus continually weakening the country’s social safety net.
I think I understand why now. They did it because Reagan revived the founding myth of the USA.
For the generation of people who became the parents of my generation, the Depression had been a terrifying thing that lingered on in their hearts, keeping on raising questions about the wonderfulness of business and capitalism, long after the emergency that business and capitalism had created had passed. After all the suffering of the Depression and THEN of WWII, I doubt that boundless optimism was widespread among them.
But by 1979 those folks were mostly over being scared — and of course their kids, having grown up in a long period of general prosperity, had never been scared. So Reagan was able to come along and revive, even in working class hearts, that great American belief
t hat everyone can get rich, or at least prosperous, if he just applies himself to it**.
That notion, which had had a large element of truth in it when the frontier brought us ever more virgin territory to exploit, is not lightly extirpated from the American heart*** by modern industrial and globalized reality, which drive down wages due to lack of collective bargaining, and easy exportation of jobs . It’s so HOPEFUL, and we’re an optimistic people. And it’s so CONSOLING!
As long as I believe I’m likely to be rich — or at least better off — later, I may manage never to truly notice that right now I’m working retail and taking crap every day for a few dollars an hour. And getting rid of government interference with business is going to seem like a great idea to me too, because, after all, I am surely going to be one of the interfered-with owners/managers some day, and, even if I never am, I will continue to admire the people who do get rich, and wish them well.
And of course I will hate taxes, because I know that when my inevitable richness arrives high taxes are going to steal my money!
Hence, the phenomenon, today, of the aggressively conservative pauper!
Let’s wait and see what happens when a lot of these people at or near the bottom of society, who had hoped to achieve a modest rise over their lifetimes, wake up and realize that not only are they never going to ascend any economic heights, they’re actually slipping back down the modest slopes they’ve already managed to climb.
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Looks like some waking up is already going on:
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
* Back in the 1960s, when I grew up, people who didn’t have to count every penny normally shopped at highly-respected department stores like Sears, Montgomery Wards, Macy’s, and Marshal Fields. Those places were busy but quiet, clean, orderly, carefully designed to appeal to the eye on every side, and full of well-made products and helpful salespersons. The Wal-Marts of that age, Woolworths, Kress, and K-mart, mostly received the custom of the poorer folk.
** That idea was first given compelling literary form in the bestselling late 19th Century stories of Horatio Alger, in all of which a penniless boy becomes, by virtue of his optimism and work ethic, a secure member of the upper middle class or beyond. But the idea was in the American air long before that. If you think about it, what would be more natural than that everyone born into a country with boundless frontier lands waiting to be exploited would assume that his personal prospects were equally boundless?
*** Nor should it be, entirely. The Horatio Alger story is not a “myth” in the sense of a lie, but rather in the anthropological sense of an idealized story known by everyone in a culture, and which serves to explain the world and give meaning to their lives. People can certainly sometimes still “make it” in the USA. Recently I received a narrative of the life of a fellow member of my high school class of ’66. He had ended up doing very well, and it was inspiring to read about the twists and turns of events that he had navigated adroitly for 44 years to to reach his affluent current state. (You know who you are, Bobby!)
But not everyone is fitted to be or wants to be an “entrepreneur”. The big organization in which I work has several thousand employees. They are not paid well, and most of their work is tedious paper-pushing. I suspect they stay because they are people, like the vast majority of every American generation before them, who just want a job where they can make a decent living and then go home and play with their kids. Back in my youth this was a thoroughly respectable aspiration, and millions of such people could achieve it through high-paying factory jobs. Why in fact there were so many people with such jobs back then that I must have seen a million beer commercials on TV that were directed just at them: A bunch of guys are standing around in a bar after getting off work. They are slugging back beers at a great rate while laughing and carrying on and obviously having lots of fun. All is right in their world.
I never thought as I watched those dumb ads that one day I’d be nostalgic for the world they reflected. | 6,855 | 3,298 | 0.000311 |
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