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warc | 201704 | June 3, 2009 (by SSgt. Rachel Martinez) -
Since returning from a deployment to Iraq, the 14th Fighter Squadron has spent the last three months executing a training plan to get all the pilots current and proficient in their home station mission.
USAF F-16C block 50 #90-0825 from the 14th FS taxis in after completing a mission at Misawa AB on June 1st, 2009. The 14th FS has spent the last three months rebuilding skill sets in their primary mission of air-to-air and suppression of enemy air defenses. [USAF photo by SrA. Jamal D. Sutter]
The training plan to build proficiency, also known as reconstitution, will culminate this month with the squadron's participation in exercise Northern Edge.
"For almost six months while in Iraq
we were tasked with close air support and over-watch of friendly forces," said Lt. Col. Joseph McFall, 14th Fighter Squadron operations officer. "Normally, our primary mission is force protection and suppression of enemy air defenses. We had no opportunity to train in air-to-air or SEAD while we were over there."
Pilots must maintain certain currencies to remain proficient in various missions, according to Colonel McFall. While deployed, most of those basic air-to-air and SEAD currencies lapsed. Once they returned home, members of the 14th FS
devised a plan for pilots to regain their skill level and re-familiarize themselves with the local flying area.
"We needed to be ready to go to Northern Edge, so our plan was built around that," said Colonel McFall. "We built a plan to get us proficient by the time we arrive in Alaska."
The first phase of the plan included three weeks of flying missions designed for pilots to regain the appropriate skill level in their primary mission. This also allowed the pilots to adjust to the high-gravitational demands of air-to-air combat flying.
"The first three weeks you get that feeling back," explained Colonel McFall. "We have to retrain our bodies for high-G flying. It's a lot of muscle memory."
Following the first phase, all the pilots in the 14th FS
had regained their currencies. If called upon, the squadron would be able to execute their mission, explained Colonel McFall. That didn't mean training was over. The next three months incorporated a building-block approach allowing pilots to strenghten various skills and build proficiencies.
"We had a three-month timeframe where we practiced every skill set we would need for one vs. one, two vs. one, two vs. two, and four vs. X," said Colonel McFall. "Air-to-air combat involves time-sensitive decisions and complex maneuvers and is fairly mentally taxing. It takes time and practice to get your pacing down."
With Northern Edge scheduled to begin in mid-June, the squadron is heading to Alaska early for the chance to get in some final training.
"Before the exercise officially begins, we will have approximately six days of flying where we will practice employment of live air-to-ground weapons," said Colonel McFall. "There are not suitable ranges here at home to let us drop live weapons.
"Additionally, we will be flying some air-to-air training with the Aggressor Squadron in Alaska to put the finishing touches on our reconstitution plan as we roll into the exercise. Our reconstitution phase methodically stepped us through building block skill sets that will be required to execute effectively in Northern Edge."
Northern Edge is a joint, large-force employment exercise designed to practice operations, techniques and procedures, while enhancing interoperability among the services. More than 9,000 participants and hundreds of aircraft, from all the services are involved.
"For the majority of the exercise, we will be participating in the air-to-air and force protection role," Colonel McFall said. "This is the first, big exercise since returning home. Our pilots are very excited to participate. Every good fighter pilot relishes the opportunity to fly in a scenario that tests all of the tactical skills that he or she has been practicing in day-to-day training."
Not only does Northern Edge give the 14th FS a chance to test their training plan, it will take it a step above, added Colonel McFall.
"Large force exercises like Northern Edge provide us a few benefits that we can't get here at home," said Colonel McFall. "First, we will be involved in scenarios involving up to 100 aircraft. This isn't possible with our normal flying schedule here. Second, we will get to face an extremely robust surface and air threat array on the Alaskan ranges that also isn't possible here at home. Finally, we get to employ and practice with our joint partners to hone our skills across multiple weapons systems and services. This is a great benefit." | 4,750 | 2,129 | 0.000475 |
warc | 201704 | This document, Health management and biosecurity maintenance
in white shrimp (
Penaeus vannamei) hatcheries in Latin America, presents
technical guidance for the effective and responsible operation of shrimp
hatcheries in Latin America. This document was compiled through an extensive
consultative process undertaken from 2001 to 2003 that involved inputs from
government-designated National Coordinators, regional and international experts,
representatives from several intergovernmental organizations, private sector
representatives and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
This process was made possible through the FAO Regional Technical Cooperation
Programme project - Assistance to health management of shrimp culture in Latin
America: TCP/RLA/0071 (A), which involved the participation of 14 countries of
the region, several intergovernmental organizations, shrimp hatchery operators
and farmers, and individual experts. It is envisaged that this document will
provide a firm basis for the improvement of the health and quality of
hatchery-produced Penaeus vannamei postlarvae in Latin America. Distribution Shrimp hatchery operators and managers Ministries and Directorates of Fisheries FAO Fishery Regional and Subregional Officers FAO Fisheries Department | 1,306 | 665 | 0.001524 |
warc | 201704 | Revised 7/1/85
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION CENTER FOR VETERINARY MEDICINE Liquid Feeds Mineral Mixes Blocks MANUFACTURING CONTROLS GENERAL
Free choice medicated feeds are those products which contain one or more animal drugs and are placed in feeding and grazing areas but are not intended to be fully consumed at a single feeding or to constitute the entire diet of the animal.
Free choice medicated feeds include such common feed products as medicated blocks, mineral mixes and liquid feeds. This document provides the necessary information for the manufacture of these type feed products under regulation 21 CFR 510.455 which provides for the new animal drug requirements.
Information concerning the manufacture of free-choice medicated products can be presented in a new animal drug application (NADA), in a supplement to an approved NADA or in a master file. If a master file is used to provide the information, proper reference to the source must be made in the NADA. Initial approval of the manufacture of the free-choice product must be made under an NADA submission. The manufacturing requirements are listed in 21 CFR 514.1(b)(5)(i) through (xiii).
Once initial approval has been granted under the NADA for the use of a free choice product, the product may be manufactured under a FDA-1800 application. The FDA-1800 application must provide for the information required under 21 CFR 510.455(e).
MANUFACTURING INFORMATION
The manufacture of medicated free choice feed products is subject to the current good manufacturing practice regulations (cGMPs) for medicated feeds.. 21 CFR Part 225. The agency is aware that there are not specific GMP regulations for free choice products. The products because of their use are considered as a finished feed ready for consumption and thus fall under 21 CFR 255.
Pre-Approval Requirements
As a prerequisite for approval for use, the information listed in 21 CFR 514.1(b)(5) will be required. In addition, the sponsor will need to further address the following specific areas relative to the manufacture of free-choice type medicated products:
Raw Materials Controls Analytical Controls Stability Post-Approval Requirements
Once approval has been given for the manufacture and use of a medicated free choice feed product, the manufacturer of the products will be regulated under the requirements of the cGMP regulations for medicated feeds as per 21CFR 225.
The information below should be helpful in addressing the three subject areas.
1). RAW MATERIAL CONTROLS
Active Ingredient:
The source of the active ingredient(s) for a mediated free choice product may be an undiluted drug substance or a medicated premix. The source must be properly identified.
(i)Bulk drug substance: If a bulk drug substance is to be used in preparing the product, the following information should be provided:
IDENTIFICATION TEST: A test to determine that the chemical is what it purports to be. The test must be specific. This may be a simple chemical color test, an IR test, a TLC (Thin Layer Chromatography) test, etc.
ASSAY TEST: A determinative (potency) test to assure the chemical has the potency it purports to have. The method itself (along with proper validation date, if necessary) or proper reference must be given.
CERTIFICATE OF ANALYSIS: A certificate of analysis from the supplier may be used for the assay test. A copy should be submitted for review.
The identification test must be conducted even when a certificate isavailable.
(ii)Medicated Premix: If an approved medicated premix is used to prepare a free choice medicated product, the premix must be properly identified. If a copy of the certificate of analysis is available, it should be submitted for review.
Inert Ingredients:
Inert ingredients should meet AAFCO specifications, definitions, or other standards as applicable. References to the appropriate standard reference source(s) should be listed.
2). ANALYTICAL CONTROLS:
Batch Analysis:
Proper mixing should provide for a homogeneous dispersion of the active ingredient throughout the finished product. If the free-choice product is manufactured from a bulk drug substance or an approved medicated premix, duplicate samples from three (3) batches must be analyzed to assure proper quality control and manufacturing procedures are conducted. The data must be presented for review.
Any site participating in the manufacture of the product will be expected to abide by the above analytical requirements.
Release Specifications:
Release specifications for each type of finished free choice feed product must be provided. The specifications should include the following:
Physical characteristics Identification tests for the active ingredients(s). Assay limits, including test methods for active ingredients(s). Moisture determination, if applicable.
The test methods used must be provided for review. References to official methods must be provided, if applicable. If unapproved methods are used, validation information must be provided. Validation should include accuracy, precision, and interference (specificity) data. Sampling procedures should be described.
3). STABILITY
Because of the nature of the products and their proposed use, stability information is needed on the different types of free-choice feed products. Specific requirements for medicated blocks can be found in the Center for Veterinary Medicine Stability Guidelines. Requirements for liquid feeds should follow the guides listed under medicated premixes and finished feeds. Requirements for mineral mixes may be found under medicated premixes and finished feeds. The Guidelines also provide procedures on how to develop the needed stability data. Prior to initiation of a stability study, protocols for the stability program and study should be submitted to the Center for comment. | 5,912 | 2,462 | 0.000409 |
warc | 201704 | Joburg tops for affordable homes
2011-01-13 11:06
Sapa
Johannesburg - Port Elizabeth and Johannesburg are the most affordable cities for home buyers, a property group said on Thursday.
"Port Elizabeth and Johannesburg currently appear to be the best SA cities in which to buy a home, according to the latest housing and salary statistics, for the simple reason that they offer the best affordability," said Hano Jacobs, CEO of the Realty 1 International Property Group. "And this does not mean that people here get paid the highest salaries, only that these two cities offer the best balance between house prices and salaries." He said in Port Elizabeth the average white collar salary was 16% lower than the national average of R19 293 per month, according to online placement company JobCrystal. The latest Absa Housing Review finds the average price of a middle segment house in the Port Elizabeth/Uitenhage Area was 16% less than the national average of R1.02m. This means the monthly home loan repayment would be equal to 43% of that salary. "In Johannesburg, white collar workers generally earn about 4% more than the national average, but house prices are also somewhat higher than the average, and the bond repayment to salary ratio is once again 43%." Bloemfontein and Pretoria were considered the next best cities, with the repayment ratio at 46%. Cape Town, however, fared less well. "... a combination of lower-than-average salaries and much higher-than-average house prices in Cape Town mean that buyers in that city can expect to hand over 52% of their salary each month to cover the bond repayment on an average home." Durban, with its depressed house prices and salaries below the national average, had a ratio of 48%. "However, it is also worth noting that another JobCrystal survey recently found that employees are generally happier if they live in a smaller city rather than a major metro, and that Durban has the highest happiness rating of all SA cities, at 61% of employees," he added. The Eastern Cape cities followed at 60%, then Pretoria (57%), northern Johannesburg (56%) and Cape Town (55%). Realty 1 based its home loan calculations on a deposit of 10% on a 20-year home loan, repayable at 9% interest per annum.
Comments
Bull Dust!
-
2011-01-13 11:22
Sooooo? Then you need to rob and steel + beg for a morgage at that level- as the banks work on a ration of no more than 35% disposable income to spend on a bond- thus you will not be able to apply for the bond if your monthly payments are 40%+ Sooo WTF?
Justin
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2011-01-13 12:34
Well, they are talking here about average prices. Plus, they appear to be talking specifically about "houses". Most people don't enter the property market by purchasing a house, but rather a simplex or flat. It is also possible to purchase a property at under market value if you take the time to educate yourself. Lastly, you neglect the fact that your average household is earning two salaries and not one. It's not all gloom and doom :)
Massage the Stats
-
2011-01-13 12:43
A well thought out and erudite piece... 99% truth and 1% lie, the best strategy for catching both the 97% of South Africans who earn peanuts and the other 3% who consistently buy above their capacity where only about 0.5% can actually afford their bonds... I won't bother with the ratios as they're obvious to any half-smart fool who bothers to check. That "affordability" word, nice try! Guess what Mr Property Agent? ... watch the stagflation over the next couple of years... durable asset classes down, down, down, drown while consumables WILL quadruple at a minimum. Go check the price of a can of tuna over the past two years, I won't even bother trying to justify the argument to you as it's a self-fulfilling prophecy. People are going to start really struggling over the next 18 months just to put food on the table and nice-to-have's like "house ownership" will take on a distinctly unpleasant taste at the current extremely high price to income ratios. At 35% of gross you have to be an absolute moron to buy a house at this time at current prices. 1.6 bars at current bank rates takes on a sickly hue when you factor in REAL inflation i.e. the stuff that hits the consumer, not the government and banks fetishes. Add 10% to the 1.6 bar bond and see the dominoe's tumble. This doesn't even consider the utterly sub-standard building quality of properties built over the past 15 years which adds a whole different dimension when compared to the stricter building standards in the US and Europe, oh, and guess where the US property market is heading sans their REAL consumer inflation? (see shadowstats.com). Dare I say it? REAL deflation in durable asset classes is on the cards and like a vulture, it has patience, it sucks in every uncautious and financial illiterate and slowly squeezes them until they're barely breathing, and then it swoops down and feasts. The boomerang of profligacy always comes back Mr Realtor and no manner of stating the facts in honeyed words will stop it. You better be able to catch that boomerang when it arrives. OMHO
matt
-
2011-01-13 13:50
@Bull Dust. We're talking household income here - 35% of both earnings.
Geyser
-
2011-01-13 16:07
Lies, damned lies and statistics. This is one of the most misleading piece of information. Except for a very minute minority, who earns R19,293 per month? and what % of SA families can afford a R1 million homes?Why don't you tell what % of SA population earns R19,293 and above?It seems that the analysts are shutting out the vast majority of the people of this country from statistical data as if these people don't exist.
Andre
-
2011-01-14 09:23
Interesting read.@Geyser - the article states that these figures are based on White Collar jobs and not blue collar or informal traders. This includes mostly people who had the opportunity to go study. This does exclude the vast majority of South Africans.
Massage the Stats
-
2011-01-14 10:08
@Geyser: You are 100% correct, though the statistical alchemy leading to a per capita average of 19.2k is arrived at by including the incomes of all those people who resemble Jabba-The-Hut, the top level politicians and CEO's, that component of the top 3% who take home in excess of 1 bar, whose collective income makes up more than 50% of SA's take home cash. Of course the per capita is going to look good. My personal guess is that the per capita take home is around 8k to 9k and includes earners up to 300k per anum. If you take the bottom 97% its more like 4k to 5k. During the party people could sell their homes for say R1.3 bars and then upgrade to R2 bars, assuming they've paid off a large portion of the bond. It's all about that back-breaker at around 1 bar for most earners. The point here is that its not about the current value of the property but rather about the outstanding bond as a % of monthly gross income. Some people (minority) were smart and made sure they upgraded into a manageable bond but the majority went and upgraded into a bond they could hardly carry at the rate while others went and maxed out their bonds to buy that beemer and flatscreen. These guys are just holding on at the current low rates and are bargaining that they'll get 2 bars for that MacMansion. Enter stagflation, sit back and watch the carnage unfold. I got out of property in 2005 as I saw this coming, bit early, but at least I have my risk managed. Good luck to those who still believe their property is still worth the 2007 price.
Meanleader
-
2011-03-30 17:15
Do you snort coke Massage the stats ?You are sharp boet ! maybe too sharp for the intellectuals here !
Mike
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2011-01-14 10:22
I would be interested to hear what those ratios are in international terms as they so not sound too high to me. I think that in big cities it is not uncommon for one spouse's salary to go almost exclusively to the bond and the other salary used to live on but the grapevine can be a dangerous thing to listen to. What I would love to know is the combined household spend on car repayments vs. bond repayments as I believe this stat will be significantly different to the International average. One thing for sure is that houses will not get any cheaper in the medium and long term so families will have to compromise somewhere and priorities will have to shift.
CF
-
2011-01-14 10:26
@Geyser: Most countries in the world have the situation that the vast majority of people do not own homes i.e. they rent. We should be no different i.e. only those that earn an appropriate salary should be able to afford a house. Get realistic - not everyone deserves to own a house!
ss
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2011-01-24 10:46
The figures for worker happiness are shocking. We need to find a way to free ourselves from wage slavery.
Gray
-
2011-01-24 14:18
I don't know how people live. My bond is 25% of my NETT Salary and still battling. (How do people afford over 40% ??) . | 8,967 | 4,238 | 0.000238 |
warc | 201704 | There’s been more activity on the question of the importance of RCTs. Last week, Bill Easterly wrote his thoughts about randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on his blog, and Chris Blattman posted a response. Both of them seem to take the perspective that academic research should produce new theory and/or create major policy recommendations. The fact that each RCT often only answers a “small” question – and sometimes only in a certain context – seems to them to be a huge drawback. I disagree.
I work as a PA in La Paz, and I’m proud and excited about all of our projects, which mostly deal with “small” questions in the Bolivian context. Popularizing RCTs in the development context seems to me to be the best way to improve the goods and services being offered to the world’s poor. RCTs may not teach us the answers to many big questions, but they are still an important tool that academics should embrace and promote.
Companies all over the world do randomized experiments in order to learn what sorts of services they should offer. Google bases practically all of its decisions on randomized experiments, and credit card companies such as Capital One also use the methodology. While NGOs (or governments) are more interested in poverty alleviation than profit margins, the research methods that best serve private companies can and should be adapted to the needs of the development community. Each specific project might not have an impact on the lives of millions of people (sometimes some do), but the overall effect of emphasizing RCTs can be huge if projects and organizations all over the globe start to really think about the best way to accomplish their mission. Billions of dollars are spent on development; we have a responsibility to try to optimize the way that the money is spent. There are absolutely other ways of pursuing this goal– natural/lab experiments, theory, and so on – but RCTs are a valuable tool that are being underused because they are hard to execute and seldom produce newsworthy results.
It’s important for academics to be involved with RCTs for two reasons. Fancy letterhead leads credibility to an evaluation technique that many organizations in the developing world may not understand. Most of the organizations that I’ve dealt with are in favor of introducing and evaluating innovative projects, but aren’t sure they want or need to so in a rigorous manner. Offering a particular service in one city but not another that is vaguely similar, or to only the best clients are not particularly effective ways of evaluation, and yet both have been suggested to me as replacements for RCTs. Doing such things is easier to implement and probably less expensive, but they aren’t nearly as useful. Organizations like IPA can get funding because our PIs are smart and qualified, and we’ve demonstrated that we develop creative projects which we apply in intelligent and careful ways. As a result of being affiliated with an academic organization like IPA it’s much easier for people in the field (like me!) to demonstrate that we can help figure out new and better projects, and show why it’s important to evaluate innovations with the best methods available.
It’s also important for academics to work with RCTs because often it’s unclear what type of intervention should be tried. For instance, much of IPA’s work is about trying to figure out how to improve health in the developing world. We don’t necessarily need a generalized theory about what works in general, but specific and carefully thought out projects which apply to and can potentially improve what’s being offered in particular context. Psychological and behavioral economic work has produced theories of human behavior, and much of the work of modern development is figuring out the best way to apply those theories to development. Academics are probably the most qualified to think of ways to do that, and RCTs are probably the best way to test what they come up with. Just because RCTs don’t often lead to advances in general academic theory doesn’t mean that they don’t lead to important advances in development.
Here in Bolivia, through a partnership with a local MFI with a social mission, we’re focusing on the impact of changing the size of communal banks. We know that forcing people to form groups of a billion people is a terrible idea; no one would ever manage to get a loan. The right answer –the right range of guarantee sizes – is obviously less than that. Finding the answer is an empirical task. The bank originally only allowed associations of 15-20 people who all guaranteed each other. We wanted to see the impact of shrinking the guarantee to only 5-7 people, because our PIs realized that potentially good microfinance clients might be scared off by having to guarantee so many others (and often several strangers). The bank agreed that the innovation (a semi-replication of a study in the Philippines) was promising and proper evaluation was important. The results of our study so far have been promising, and we’re continuing to work with the MFI to try to identify an optimal size for their communal banks. They hadn’t been considering that tactic, and are happy that IPA helped them introduce a more flexible product which many clients clearly prefer. They’re considering using RCTs for their own innovations, which is hugely important step to ensure that they offer the best services possible.
Will the results of the study ever get published in a peer-reviewed journal or lead to advances in knowledge about fundamental human behavior? Almost certainly not. Will it lead to change in the dominant lending paradigm worldwide? Probably not. Will it lead to change in the Bolivian microfinance context? Maybe. Our partner organization wants to offer the best services possible to their clients, and being familiar with RCTs is important to that goal. Furthermore, they (and other MFIs) have access to our results, and can decide if they have been determining the right association size. Otherwise they basically have to guess what the best product would be, and I think that their work is too important for that. | 6,302 | 2,841 | 0.000362 |
warc | 201704 | The Senate yesterday mandated its Committee on Customs, Excise and Tariff to carry out a holistic investigation into the activities of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) with a view to identifying the reasons for its declining revenue, leakages and irregularities in its operations. The recommendations of the committee, the Senate said, should aim to reinvigorate the revenue profile of the Nigeria NCS.
The resolution followed a motion on the “urgent need to examine the operations of the Nigeria Customs Service revenue drive” sponsored by Senator Isaac Mohammed Alfa (Kogi East) and 12 others.
Sen Alfa, in his lead debate, noted that the NCS was established to among other things, collect and account for revenue from customs duties, excise duties, other fees and excise laws; administer any aspect of trade and fiscal policy that the government of the federation may mandate it to administer; promote trade facilitation; as well as to protect Nigeria against smuggling, fraud and all other violations of customs and excise laws and laws of Nigeria subject to Customs jurisdiction.
He prayed the Senate to note with serious concern that the revenue projections and targets of the NCS are currently not being met, despite multiple strategies and policy initiatives to improve revenue collection.
The lawmaker lamented that NCS recorded a revenue shortfall of N230 billion by the last quarter of last year, adding that in the first quarter of this year, the Tin can Island and Apapa Command recorded a revenue shortfall of N2.7 and N2 billion respectively compared with the corresponding period last year.
He said he was aware that the revenue shortfall was as a result of unwholesome fraudulent trade malpractices, under declaration, abuse of fiscal policies concealment, over and under invoicing, false declaration of value and wrong classification.
He said the probe became imperative because: “Aware of the Federal Government’s resolve to diversify the economy and enthrone multiple revenue sources in order to augment the dwindling oil revenue;
“Determined to utilise legislative action to create an enabling environment that sees the NCS thrive and in effect dramatically increase the revenue accruable to the country and realistically become a major driver in the funding of the nation’s budget;
“Further aware that the NCS is currently operating a regime that through a directive from the Federal Ministry of Finance, bars the NCS from collecting excise revenue as enunciated in the Mandatory Excise List and Community List in clear contravention of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) tariff harmonisation directive.”
The motion was promptly seconded by Sen Shehu Sani who prayed the Senate to work to give more life to the NCS.
Sen Sani said Nigerians should appreciate the fact the era of oil was over hence there was need to reposition the NCS.
Deputy Senate President, Sen Ike Ekweremadu agreed with the submission of Alfa and Sani. Ekweremadu noted that the time has come to block all revenue leakages to shore up the economy of the country.
Senate President, Bukola Saraki said the motion was timely especially at a time of dwindling economic fortunes of the country.
The Senate, he said, will work to reposition the NCS in the interest of the country. | 3,339 | 1,599 | 0.000636 |
warc | 201704 | Did you think how are you going to avail the tax benefit after Direct Tax Code come into effect. Currently most of the people prefer to invest under tax saving ELSS mutual funds to get the tax exemption. As ELSS mutual funds are covered under section 80C of income tax act, which allows you to put your funds under ELSS to avail the tax benefit of the same amount upto Rs 1 lakh from your taxable income every year.
As per proposed DTC, Equity Linked Saving Schemes (ELSS) mutual funds will lose its most attractive feature i.e tax saving benefit. Which means investment under ELSS mutual funds will not offer any tax benefit to its investors after DTC.
What Is The Best Alternate Investment Of ELSS When Proposed DTC Comes Into Effect?
As of New Pension Scheme (NPS) looks a best alternative of ELSS as tax saving instrument. As proposed DTC may impose EEE taxation policy on NPS and this may be one of the investment instrument which will be eligible for tax deduction upto Rs 1 lakh once DTC will come into effect.
What All Benefits Will Come With The Revised DTC On NPS? Tax Benefit As Per Income Tax Act 1961
Currently withdrawal made by the investor attracts tax which deducts a substantial amount of money from the life time invested sum of the investors.
As Per Proposed DTC
with the proposed DTC it is expected that government may impose
EEE method of taxation over NPS under which contribution, interest and withdrawal all will be exempt from tax for the investors. What Is The New Pension Scheme?
New Pension Scheme (NPS), launched by the government of India on 1st April 2009 for non government employees. Any one working under any stream can invest under NPS where investor need to contribute funds every months under the scheme during the working years, which is then invested as per the preference of the investor.
Sum invested under NPS can be withdrawn by the investor on retirement (on or after 60 years of age).
What Are The Advantages Of New Pension Scheme (NPS)? Lowest Charges :-NPS has the lowest fund management charges, administrative charges, account opening charges, annual maintenance charges and transaction charges which saves lots of amount of the investor investing under NPS. Tax Benefit :-Contribution made under NPS is tax free for the investors. Switch Between Fund Managers :-Investor putting funds under NPS are allowed to switch between fund managers handling NPS investments. Which means if you are not satisfied with the performance of the funds you are invested in then you can switch to some other fund manager without any tax implications. Government Contribution :-To promote NPS, government of India have decided to contribute Rs 1000 every year to for everyone who joins the New Pension Scheme.between 1st April 2010 to 31st March 2011. This will simply add Rs1000 in your NPS account every year for next 3 years if the investment amount is between Rs 1,000 – Rs 12,000 p.a. Returns :-NPS investment under stock market generates better returns than other long term investment products. Regular Flow Of Income After Retirement :-NPS helps you save for your future and investment under annuities provides a regular flow of income to the investor. What Are The Drawbacks Of New Pension Scheme (NPS)? Compulsory Withdrawal :-People investing under NPS are required to withdraw their entire contribution between the age of 60 to 70 years. Lack Of Transparency :-People investing under NPS cannot decide in which NPS fund they should invest into as there is no way to check the historical performance of NPS funds. Mode Of Payment :-The only way to make payment for NPs is through cheque. No other facilities are available like online fund transfer etc. Compulsory Purchase Of Annuity :-In case of early retirement investor have to purchase a annuity from an insurance company compulsorily. Restricted Asset Allocation :-Investor can invest only 50% in equities. As we all know investing in equities generates good returns as compare to other investments. Is Tax Benefit On ELSS Will Continue After DTC?
Latest draft of DTC did not include ELSS as tax saving instrument, which means after DTC investment under ELSS will not offer any tax benefit to the investor. Final draft may include ELSS into the tax saving instrument category – so we better wait for the final draft before jumping to a final conclusion.
Which Section Of DTC Will Offer Tax Benefits to The Individuals?
After DTC, section 80C of income tax act will be replaced with section 66 which will offer tax benefits to the individuals. | 4,565 | 2,028 | 0.000496 |
warc | 201704 | RBI: As per the current notification issued by the Reserve Bank of India, central bank has asked banks not to demand signature of both the depositors for the withdrawal of money in case of joint fixed deposit account. As this kind of mandate causes unreasonable delay and causes inconvenience to account holders.
So central bank has issued a notice to all the banks with the instruction that if term deposit accounts are opened with operating instructions ‘Either or Survivor’ or ‘Former or Survivor’, banks should not demand signatures of both the depositors for making payment of the amount of the deposit on maturity. Which means, on maturity consent of both the account holders is not mandatory so any one account holder can make the withdrawal.
But in other cases like pre mature withdrawal of fixed deposit i.e withdrawal before maturity, bank should demand signature of both the account holders. Joint account holders can specifically mention to the bank to allow them to make pre-mature withdrawal of term deposit with signatures of any one account holder.
Likewise, if in case of death of one of the depositor before the maturity of the term deposit, banks should not allow pre mature withdrawal of money without the consent of the legal heirs of the deceased joint holder. However, the survivor can make the withdraw on maturity.
To summarize the whole story, central bank instruct banks not to demand consent of both the account holders for the withdrawal of funds after maturity of the term deposit. Only pre-mature withdrawal or death of one account holder (before maturity) should demand consent from the other account holder or legal heir. Even in case of death of one account holder before maturity of fixed deposit, other can make the withdrawal on maturity without the consent of legal heir of the deceased account holder. | 1,866 | 740 | 0.00137 |
warc | 201704 | Following the planned strike action by Translink workers on the eve of the General Election which was deferred, a three-month process has been agreed with the Department for Regional Development to review the situation, a statement said. Unite regional officer Davy McMurray said: “The 24-hour strike action planned for 6 May was a follow up to the hugely successful public service strike against austerity on 13 March. "Unite is opposed to the Assembly’s austerity cuts which will undermine public services and adversely impact the most vulnerable in our society. The threats of strikes by bus workers in Northern Ireland are bringing the threat of large fines being imposed on the two operators that run services in the province. Penalties of € 150,000 per day could be imposed on Dublin Bus and €80, 000 per day on Bus Eireann if the seven days of strikes take place. Workers are taking industrial action in response to proposed cuts to Translink's bus and rail services. Northern Ireland's transport is regulated in a similar manner to London where buses and trains are run by the state. When funds are tight there is pressure to cut services and customers and transport workers are fighting the latest proposals. Welcoming the decision to call off the strike action, the Transport Minister confirmed he has agreed to put on hold the outcome of Translink's recent consultation process. “This is to allow Unite time to produce an alternative set of efficiency proposals for consideration and I have asked Translink and my officials to assist them, as required, in this process," he commented. It is ironic that here we have an example of regulated transport not working due to lack of funding whilst at the same time Nexus and the Tyne & Wear ITA arguing for their's to come under control. On 17th March we commented here about Nexus having to ask for more time to prepare a response to the operators’ challenges to the proposed quality contract scheme and pointed out that regulated bus services in Northern Ireland were under threat due to lack of funding. The call for strike action in Northern Ireland follows estimates of a loss of £14m in 2014-15 and proposals of a 10% rise during the year. This could be the scenario in Tyne & Wear if the proposals to regulate services as in Northern Ireland where public funding cannot keep pace with costs of running the business in a realistic and efficient way. Thanks to Stephen Maskell for providing two of the above images | 2,513 | 1,236 | 0.000822 |
warc | 201704 | During World War I, the Ottoman government killed roughly 1.5 million Armenians. In 1994, the Hutus turned against the Tutsis and slaughtered as much as 20 percent of Rwanda’s population. In the mid-1970s, the Khmer Rouge government in Cambodia exterminated nearly 2 million of its own people. The ongoing conflict in Sudan has already claimed 400,000 lives and displaced more than 2.5 million people.
Genocide is described as the deliberate and systematic destruction of a large group of people, especially those of a particular ethnic group or nation. In America, the Holocaust is perhaps the most well-known example of genocide. During World War II, the Holocaust resulted in the mass murder or genocide of approximately 6 million Jews by Nazi Germany's Third Reich.
The goal of “The Courage to Remember: The Holocaust 1933-1945” is to educate the masses, with the hope that learning about genocide and its inherent atrocities prevents it from happening again. The traveling educational exhibit has been displayed in 16 countries over the past 20 years. The exhibit is produced by the Simon Wiesenthal Center’s Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles and presented by the Foundation for California.
“There is a lot of ignorance when it comes to the Holocaust … and there’s a lot of misconception about Hitler and his ideology,” said Ted Gover, Foundation of California executive director, who has spent the last 17 years taking the exhibit to areas within the Asia-Pacific region.
On April 9, “The Courage to Remember” opened at Florida State College at Jacksonville’s South Campus Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts. The exhibit features four distinct themes: Nazi Germany, 1933-1938; Moving Toward the “Final Solution,” 1939-1941; Annihilation in Nazi-occupied Europe, 1941-1945; and Liberation, Building New Lives.
Press material describes the show as “a traveling exhibit that strives to address the issues of intolerance and hatred at the core, empowering people to educate themselves, learn from history and speak out against injustice.”
The exhibit’s 200 images and accompanying text have been collected throughout the years by the Museum of Tolerance’s research staff through relationships with Holocaust survivors. The general public has never seen many of the photographs and most of the originals are currently archived at the museum in L.A.
“This is a fairly straightforward, self-guided tour,” Gover said. “It doesn’t require docents or guides, but we do advise that it is best suited for children ages 12 and older.”
During Gover’s travels to places, including Thailand, India, Japan and China, he’s encountered many people who have little or no information about the Holocaust.
“In the streets of Rangoon, Burma, Nazi symbols are viewed as fashionable. I’ve seen it personally, T-shirts with swastikas and Ronald McDonald dolls with Hitler mustaches.”
According to Gover, there are parts of the world where “Mein Kampf,” Nazi leader Adolf Hitler’s autobiography, is used as a primer on how to approach business as an organized entity. And, in the 21st century, the gas chamber is still being used to kill.
“These sorts of things are sobering and further remind us of how much work we have left to do to educate people on the Holocaust,” Gover said. “By bringing this exhibit to different areas of the world, we hope to dispel many of these myths. There’s a new urgency to education.”
One would think, after the atrocities of the Holocaust and the millions of people who were tortured and murdered, that history would not repeat itself. Yet Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has denied that the Holocaust, and extermination of more than 6 million people, ever took place.
In 1983, the United States Congress established a Day of Remembrance, a national annual commemoration of the Holocaust on April 8, with Days of Remembrance observed April 7-14 this year.
“These lessons being presented by the exhibit are universal – there’s a new urgency to education,” Gover said. “They apply to all people and really implore us to speak out against the injustices of today.” | 4,303 | 2,135 | 0.000494 |
warc | 201704 | "I'm not crazy! You're the one that's crazy!"-- Suicidal Tendencies, Institutionalized
It's been a tough year since what I like to call The Autumn of the Massive Collective Pants-Soiling. Have we grown up, sobered up, or started building a healthier economy? I think not. Welcome to the world of institutionalized speculation.
Investors, policymakers, and the public in general seem just as ready as ever to dismiss the importance of business fundamentals, and no less voracious in their appetite for risk. Is this further fallout from the year of moral hazard? Garbage stocks triumph on Wall Street. Government bailouts reward businesses for failing. And as Uncle Sam doles out the cash, a confederacy of wusses starts whining for its own share of the largesse.
If we're not careful, we may soon forget that real corporate performance and good economic sense are the way things ought to be done. If so, the systemic mess we've created could become business as usual.
The government as speculator Companies like GM, AIG Fannie Mae Freddie Mac Bank of America Citigroup
Some observers have even praised the government for making a "profit" off its own "investments." True, Uncle Sam may have done well with short-term paybacks from the stronger recipients of its handouts, but the payments it made to weaker players could accrue far greater losses. Some economists and critics also point out that even with their newly acquired taxpayer cash, many financial companies' balance sheets are
still full of toxic assets, even a year after the market crashed. In short, we can't be sure that the specter of financial insolvency's truly behind us.
The government's already amassed $7.4 trillion in debt. Over the next 10 years, that figure will swell to a total of $9 trillion. These daunting numbers should prompt people to confront the question of our nation's long-term fiscal security. Instead, folks seem distracted by emotional arguments over issues like health care, or the soothing assurances of our economy's supposed green shoots.
Follow the leader Worse yet, individual investors still follow Uncle Sam's lead by bidding up even the most damaged stocks, gullibly convinced that last year's troubles are a distant memory. Many of the names I mentioned earlier have recently ranked among Wall Street's most actively traded stocks.
It's bad enough when people pile into stocks that are already saddled with debt and faced with major challenges. For example,
Sirius XM Crocs
But investors' appetite for risk-riddled companies doesn't seem to stop there. Apparently, even long-failed Lehman Brothers' pink-sheet shares have been recently trading. So have shares of bought-out Washington Mutual and doomed "old GM." And that's just plain
nuts.
Caught up in bailout fever, some investors may be entirely forgetting that healthy fundaments are the key to a sound investment. Indeed, why should they worry about such things, if someone else will always come along to patch up even the most bloated, failure-prone beasts of the corporate world? I can't decide whether moral hazard's truly dead, or whether we're seeing its dire effects more clearly than ever.
We need to start saying no to goodies our nation can't afford, even if they feel good or might "help" in the near term. Cash for Clunkers, for example, definitely boosted new-car sales for a few months. But in the long run, it only saddled a whole new crop of already cash-strapped consumers with the additional burden of car payments -- and subsidized those dubious purchases at taxpayers' expense.
Change in attitude Our economy still needs to correct its bubbly excesses. Replacing private debt with public debt won't help -- we need to dig ourselves out of that particular hole, not make it deeper. Unfortunately, investors' and policymakers' recent actions only seem to be building speculation, short-term thinking, and irrationality into the system, providing perverse incentives for people to behave in downright nutty ways.
Many of the efforts our country's making now will only set us up for greater hurt down the road, including higher taxes and inflation. With our national debt at nosebleed levels, and nationwide unemployment near 10%, we can't afford to make these mistakes -- especially if our bad policies ultimately end up pushing more companies out of business.
The government should let failure fail. If it
has to do "stimulus" (personally, I still believe such efforts do more harm than good over the long haul), I'd rather see the money spent on long-term initiatives. Expensive, silly programs designed to create short-term improvement, or further cash infusions into companies clearly not worth keeping alive, are the absolute worst way to go.
Likewise, "investors" who throw money into speculative, walking-dead companies aren't only helping perpetuate insanity -- they're also running a huge risk that their own money will be vaporized. (As for all those bankrupt companies, speculators
will see their capital vanish, once the creditors get paid, and the greater fools now buying their shares finally disappear.) Those who consider themselves investors need to do real homework, and invest in strong, cash-rich, forward-looking companies. The definition of insanity Albert Einstein defined insanity as doing the same thing over and over -- but expecting a different outcome each time. I see exactly that sort of behavior in our economy today. Sure, it feels good when a short-term shot in the arm like Cash for Clunkers seems to work, or when you score a quick, lucky gain on a left-for-dead stock. But this mentality means you're ignoring the very real possibility of bankruptcy or insolvency down the road
One year later, I fear we're still overdue for some sober contemplation. We need an economy that's built to last. Institutionalized speculation won't get us there. | 5,886 | 2,958 | 0.00034 |
warc | 201704 | Full profile →'">
The author is a Forbes contributor. The opinions expressed are those of the writer.
GW Pharmaceuticals has been a hot stock nearly all year long. Operating in the medical marijuana business, GW Pharmaceuticals’ stock continued to sizzle even after the Securities & Exchange Commission crushed the pot stock party in May by temporarily halting trading in a number of the most popularly-traded pot stocks. Shares of GW Pharmaceuticals surged by 168% this year, peaking at $111.46 at the end of June.
But this week the huge run-up in GW Pharmaceuticals’ stock stopped. Shares of GW Pharmaceuticals plunged by 8.9% in Tuesday morning trading to $87.90. The stock fell by 7% on Monday. The fall came as recreational marijuana sales kicked-off in Washington State and New York legalized medical marijuana, the kind of news that usually causes pot stocks to rally.
With the stock market in general taking a pause, so-called momentum stocks have melted down in July. The shares of these companies soared going into the winter and plunged in late April and early May, causing havoc to the portfolios of some big-name investors. But many momentum stocks recovered following their May sell-off.
Now, the same stocks that fell sharply in May are again experiencing a big pull-back. The stock market, as measured by the Standard & Poor’s 500 index, is down by less than 1% on Tuesday. The Nasdaq fell by 1.66% by midday. But shares of plunged by 7.78% in morning trading to $37.10. The stock had risen from a low of about $30 in May to $42 at the start of July. Shares of other social media stocks like Facebook were also taking a beating.
Other stocks getting hit hard on Tuesday: , which is down more than 10%, and Zulily and , both down more than 9%. Then there’s FireEye, the seller of cybersecurity software that helped launch the return of the hot tech IPO last year with an initial public offering that priced at $20. Its shares nearly hit $100 earlier this year before tumbling in the March momentum stock sell-off to $25.58. The stock fell by 8.74% by midday Tuesday to $33.41.
{{article.article.page + 1}}/ {{article.article.pages.length}}Continue | 2,197 | 1,164 | 0.000873 |
warc | 201704 | Full profile →'">
The author is a Forbes contributor. The opinions expressed are those of the writer.
Just when you thought the Presidential Election 2016 miniseries couldn't be more over the top, the plot scales new heights. The female frontrunner/former first lady/former senator appeared to hold a strong lead over the controversial reality show star/billionaire real estate mogul heading into the season finale. But in a surprise plot twist, a secondary character was brought back to broadside the frontrunner with his sexting scandal. No pun was intended in naming the character, Anthony Weiner.
But sex scandals have become somewhat cliche in political dramas. Voters only care about what politicians can do for them. Investors only care about what elected officials will do for the stock market and the economy. Investment strategists are as divided as politicos when asked who would be better for the stock market. Donald Trump or Hillary Clinton?
Case for Clinton
If history is a guide, a Clinton presidency would be better for the stock market, says Stephanie T. Withers, a senior vice president of Bel Air Investment Advisors with more than $6 billion under management.
“Consider the evidence. The average annual return of the Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DIA) from 1901 through September 2016 has been 4.5%,” Withers said in an email. “Under Democrat presidents, the index has returned 7.0% on average, while Republican administrations have seen a 3.0%.”
Withers cites Princeton economists Alan Blinder and Mark Watson who published a study in 2015 that analyzed 16 presidential terms from Truman to Obama. They found annualized gross domestic product, GDP, growth was 1.8 percentage points higher under Democratic presidents versus Republican. Withers believes the stock market has already priced in a Clinton victory.
“As Democratic poll numbers have strengthened enough to suggest a possible Democratic sweep, the healthcare sector sold off, as a Democratic administration and Congress would provide headwinds for healthcare company profitability,” Withers wrote.
A Clinton presidency would be business as usual while Trump would be a wildcard because of his lack of predictability, says Timothy C. Gehner. He serves as Director of Wealth Advisory Services at Johnson Investment Counsel in Cincinnati, Ohio, overseeing $8 billion in assets.
“Her policy proposals, like them or not, are more defined and won’t provide many surprises,” said Gehner. “There is a real risk of a trade war with a Trump win, although he would have a difficult time passing his agenda, even with a Republican-controlled Congress.”
More Gridlock
As of November 1 with one week until election day, Clinton has a 71% chance of winning versus 29% for Trump, according to FiveThirtyEight’s election forecast. However, a Clinton presidency would most likely result in gridlock on Capitol Hill with a Republican-controlled House of Representatives. The GOP promises years of investigations and possible impeachment over her emails, the Clinton Foundation or other allegation of corruption. Thus the country can expect little productivity.
“Expect more of the same lethargic market action, with an upward bias, accentuated with periods of panic as the markets have experienced the past four years,” Scott Rothbort, finance professor and chief market strategist at Seton Hall University’s Stillman School of Business, said in emailed comments.
{{article.article.page + 1}}/ {{article.article.pages.length}}Continue | 3,600 | 1,836 | 0.00056 |
warc | 201704 | The production of hybrid material as the end product of a breeding programme has meant that progeny testing has always involved the testing of hybrid larch (HL) families derived from European (EL) and Japanese larch (JL) plus trees.
All progeny test material has to be produced from artificial pollination of plus trees of one species with a mixture of pollens of the other to ensure pure hybrid seed for testing. Since plus trees were often mature at the time of selection, this type of 'hybrid polycross' progeny testing had to be delayed until grafts in a clone bank were ready to flower. Unlike other species in which open-pollinated material could be used, there was thus a minimum delay of about 10 years between plus tree selection and progeny testing.
It is difficult to carry out controlled pollinations with the larches since they flower early in spring when damaging frosts and gales may still occur, the number of full seed per cone is often less than 10 and there are problems associated with pollen storage and assessments of pollen viability. Consequently, sowing of progeny tests is often delayed while sufficient seed is accumulated over several years. Progress was inevitably slow. Each year in which pollinations were carried out in clone banks and untested clonal seed orchards, involving hard work in inhospitable outside conditions, was often only to be rewarded with a poor harvest due to any combination of the problems noted above.
Between 1959 and 1994 a total of 71 larch progeny tests were planted. The fact that these constitute 43 series reflects that replication across sites was often less than three (many on only a single site) due to shortage of seed. This 36-year period includes an interruption between 1964 and 1973 when the breeding programme was put on hold for economic reasons. Despite the difficulties associated with the production of hybrid larch families, some outstanding hybrid full-sib crosses have been identified offering considerable gains over JL or EL of seed stand origins. One of the early superior specific family combinations was EL6 x JL42 which latterly appeared as a control in HL progeny tests as a measure of the standard required by new, high-performing hybrid combinations.
A small number of selected EL and JL parents have now been identified and a small breeding population has been constructed. The possibilities of mixed-species clonal seed orchards or the mass vegetative multiplication of hybrid families made by artificial pollination exist for producing a supply of improved hybrid larch. | 2,567 | 1,251 | 0.000801 |
warc | 201704 | How to Plan a Successful Event in Sydney
Coming up with a great event can be a daunting task, especially if you have no proper planning and strategy to make your event successful. For instance, marquees can give your event a professional look in additional to providing shelter to your guests. However, if you fail to involve a reliable company for Marquee Hire in Sydney, you may end up in a last-minute rush that leaves your event quite unsuccessful. Here are important things you need to consider to come up with a successful event.
Find a Space Before you Publicize
It is advisable to get everything ready before you publicize the event. Even before you settle on a date for your event, you should wait until you find the right venue before you can begin to spread the good news about your upcoming event. When you identify the location, you can hire a reliable company for event planning in Sydney to take over the planning process. Companies for event planning can also do marquee hire in Sydney.
If you plan a specific date without considering an appropriate venue first, you might end up with no venue that meets your requirements. For that reason, the venue comes first on your list before you can pick a date and make it public.
Have Your Game Plan and Follow it Strictly
Events come with different objectives whether it is a wedding ceremony, graduation, religious function, or a family party. As the host, you should be able to define the goals that you want to achieve with your event. Follow your plan strictly to lead you to achieve the intended objectives. With the help of event planning experts, you should achieve your goals without difficulty. In Sydney, reliable companies exist to provide customers with necessary support when it comes to event planning. For instance, companies such as Absolute Party Hire can provide adequate event planning services.
Send Your Message Effectively to Your Intended Guests
The invitation is a key component in event planning. It gives your guests the first impression of the event. With the help of professionals in event planning in Sydney, you can come up with an informative invitation that gives specific details about who, what, when, and how and where of the event. Provide a clear street address, parking information, or other important details such as the type of attire. The presentation of the invitation should provide your guests with a sneak peek of what to expect in the event, addressing issues such as theme or color scheme.
Work Smart, Not Hard
Remember to keep track of all your information in one spreadsheet for a handy reference when you need it. The document should include full names of your guests, their addresses, RSVP, and any important information. The document can also help you create name badges, tent cards, or thank you letters prior to your event.
Finally yet importantly, it is always important to have a backup plan. Arrange with your preferred company for event planning to ensure there are additional umbrellas or marquees, just in case it rains. Absolute Party Hire is one of the most reliable companies for marquee hire in Sydney. For more information about their services, visit absolutepartyhire.com.au/party-hire-equipment/category/marquees-shelters/ | 3,262 | 1,492 | 0.000673 |
warc | 201704 | Three Advantages of Fridge Hire
If you trade in food and other perishables, a fridge or cold room is a fundamental requirement. The facilities become handy for storage and preservation of foodstuff. However, while you may need to store and preserve several items, buying a new fridge may just add to your business capital, which may not be enough, especially when you are just starting. To lessen the cost of running business, you can rely on a company for fridge hire Sydney has to offer.
Fridge hire services are beneficial especially for start-up businesses with little capital in the beginning. Here are top three benefits of fridge hire Sydney currently has to offer.
1. No maintenance and service cost on your part
Whether you rent for a short while or for long-term, the supplier still does all the maintenance and service to the facility. You can hire a fridge for short term, especially during special events such as exhibitions, or one-day parties. If the hired fridge ceases to perform its intended functions, the supplier should replace the facility at no extra charge. As long as you rent, the supplier holds the responsibility to provide a functional fridge that meets your requirement.
If you were to buy a fridge, all the maintenance and service expenses would be upon your shoulders. Hiring a fridge helps you save money because you pay only one as agreed.
2. You are free to change or upgrade the facility
Since you rent the fridge for a given duration, you can change or upgrade the facility as you wish. This can be part of your agreement at the time of hiring. Companies for fridge hire Sydney has to offer are flexible and can accommodate various rental plans. In some cases, this may lead to an increase in rental fee, especially if you upgrade to a better or bigger facility. Compared to buying a new fridge, the cost of hiring or replacing a fridge is a little less. Besides, you need not worry about service and maintenance costs, as those are obligations of the owner.
3. The price is lower even for a high-quality fridge
If you buy a brand new fridge, you have to pay the actual cost of the facility. For a start-up business, the cost can be quite overwhelming, calling for an urgent loan. However, if you go for fridge rental Sydney companies have for customers, you can save a lot of money to plough in other areas of your business.
In many occasions, you, as a small business owner, may not own a high-quality refrigerator or cold room. This is because of the high cost of such facilities. However, with the services of fridge hire Sydney has to offer, you can easily do so. Renting fridges is a worthy move because they keep your products fresh and in prime condition.
In Sydney, you can just get in touch with reliable companies such as Cold Display Solutions to get a good fridge for your restaurant or food business.
If you need a used fridge for sale in Sydney, visit http://coldsolutions.com.au/hire.php | 2,954 | 1,357 | 0.00074 |
warc | 201704 | Dear Bankruptcy Adviser,
Continue Reading Below
My checking account, mortgage and credit card are with my credit union. My car loan is with their sister branch in another state. I am planning on filing for bankruptcy, but know my credit union will close/freeze my account when I do so. Will their sister branch still work with me, such as by letting me open an account with them? Thanks. -Mary Dear Mary,
Credit unions are afforded special treatment in bankruptcy, but burning a credit union by eliminating their debt will end any current and future association with them. Discharging a debt with a bank doesn't mean you never get to bank with these institutions again, but eliminating a credit union debt ends all current and future associations.
When a client comes to me with your situation, I explain these three scenarios you could also attempt.
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Keep your mortgage and your credit card/personal loan. Clients who continue to pay on the mortgage and the credit card or personal loan can keep banking with the credit union. Prior to filing, I have the client contact the credit union and inform them of the pending filing. The credit union will note the individual account, and the bankruptcy will not interrupt banking activities.
This option will require you to reaffirm the credit card/personal loan balance and may require the same for the mortgage. By doing this, you will be legally forced to pay all or a portion of the debt that may otherwise have been subject to discharge in your bankruptcy case.
In layman's terms, the lender wants the right to sue you for any unpaid balance in the event you do not pay on the loan after the bankruptcy, and the reaffirmation agreement gives them that right. Credit unions have a specific exemption in the bankruptcy code to allow you to reaffirm a loan with them after filing bankruptcy.
Keep your mortgage, but eliminate your credit card/personal loan. You are allowed to keep paying the credit union mortgage loan but eliminate the credit card in the bankruptcy. They can't foreclose on your home as long as you continue paying the mortgage, but you will no longer be able to bank with the credit union anymore.
Prior to filing, you must stop putting money into the credit union account. The credit union will not let you close the account completely if you owe them any money, but you don't want to put any new funds into that account either. They have the right to seize any funds in the account once you stop paying on the credit card/personal loan.
Walk away from your mortgage and your credit card/personal loan. If you choose to go this route, the solution is the same as the option above. Do not put any more money into your credit union account, as your relationship with them will be over.
As for your main question, I'll assume in your situation that using a sister branch means you applied for a car loan with the same credit union with a branch in another state. If you file bankruptcy, it will mean your banking relationship is over with all credit union branches and divisions. You can still keep your vehicle even though your banking relationship with the credit unions would end.
In my opinion, I do not believe the relationship with any credit union is worth reaffirming a credit card or personal loan. I know most credit unions personalize banking, as you may know the bank manager and other employees by name. I guess I have seen the nasty side of credit unions and do not believe that relationship is worth it. However, many clients do reaffirm debts with credit unions and do continue receiving future benefits. So it is not a crazy idea, just not one I would advise.
Ask the adviser Bankrate's content, including the guidance of its advice-and-expert columns and this website, is intended only to assist you with financial decisions. The content is broad in scope and does not consider your personal financial situation. Bankrate recommends that you seek the advice of advisers who are fully aware of your individual circumstances before making any final decisions or implementing any financial strategy. Please remember that your use of this website is governed by Bankrate's Terms of Use . Copyright 2013, Bankrate Inc. | 4,248 | 1,796 | 0.000559 |
warc | 201704 | {{1463430738045| date:'MMM d, yyyy hh:mm a'}} REDWIRE is news you can use from leading suppliers. Powered by FRASERS. How to produce tougher, harder surfaces
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When parts require strong surfaces, there are several methods used to achieve the desired hardness and durability, including nitriding, shot peening and heat-treating. Vibra Finish, however, has developed a technology that produces a tougher, harder surface than most other methods — its Vibra-Max Surfacing Technology.
The difference
Most fatigue, failure and cracking begins at or near the surface of parts. Typical treatment methods convert the undesirable tensile stress produced by forming and machining into surface compressive stresses, peening over small surface imperfections and cracks to reduce their effects.
The Vibra-Max process takes a different approach, producing repeatable uniform compressive stresses to reduce crack initiation and propagation in metal parts, and significantly improve part life. In addition, Vibra-Max Surfacing Technology is able to reduce surface finish roughness, which can contribute to the formation of cracks, to a level not obtainable by traditional finishing methods. These smoother surfaces improve the load-bearing capability and reduce the destructive frictional forces. Corrosion effects are also reduced since dirt does not accumulate as easily. The result is a longer part life, and a reduction in costly maintenance, breakdowns and warranty claims.
Vibra-Max utilizes a unique dual-shaft drive configuration and state-of-the-art control system to deliver the vibration in a controlled manner into the selected media, which also makes it much more efficient.
Each Vibra-Max system is custom designed to suit the customer’s unique application, as machine size is dependent on part size. More details
Vibra-Max Surfacing Technology is available from Vibra Finish, a Mississauga, Ont.-based production finishing company. Vibra Finish has 40 years of experience in machinery manufacturing and production finishing, and has earned a reputation for offering an uncompromising focus on quality and customer satisfaction.
To learn more, contact Vibra Finish. | 2,246 | 1,145 | 0.000882 |
warc | 201704 | Women Working From Home
Women Working From Home
Looking for an Angel with Purse Strings
Most business owners reach a phase of growth that requires additional capital to go
forward. It is often a surprise to discover that growth costs money, and quick
growth requires quick money. So how does a business owner go about finding it
and what are the options?
Venture Capital is the first thing most business owners think of when they begin to
consider capital for growth. However, Venture Capitalists will usually not look at a
business unless the investment being sought is over $500,000.
In most situations, this is more money than a small business really needs or wants
to be responsible to pay back. Over financing is never a smart idea; it just gets you
in deeper than you really want to be.
Furthermore a formal Venture Capitalist will become heavily involved in the
running and decisions of your business. Something that can become difficult if the
business you have built is near and dear to your heart.
Another option to consider is an Angel Investor. The standard behind an Angel
Investor is less restrictive and money loaned can range from a few thousand to
upwards of a hundred thousand and sometimes more.
The Internet is without a doubt the best method for locating the right Angel
Investor for you. There are online clubs and discussion lists you can join, along
with free newsletters to subscribe for additional information. Learn all you can
before you pick an investor, in the same way they will learn all they can about you.
The following links will give you a great start on your search.
International Angel Investors Institute
Next Wave Stocks Angel Directory
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www.WomenWorking.net | 1,773 | 939 | 0.001086 |
warc | 201704 | TGR: Isn't the unemployment figure a lagging indicator of a rebounding economy?DC: If you look at the way unemployment was computed until the early 1980s – something that John Williams from ShadowStats does – the numbers would indicate about 20% unemployment today. Besides, even while the population keeps rising, the number of people reported as actually working is level or even lower. Most indicators of the economic establishment, in my view, don't really make any sense. GDP, for instance, includes government spending – much of which amounts to paying some people to dig ditches during the day and other people to fill them in at night. So-called "defense" spending is almost totally wasted capital. The practice of economics today is pathetic and laughable.TGR: So, the economy is not rebounding?DC: No. My take on this is that we entered what I call the "Greater Depression" in 2007. And now, because the government has printed up trillions of dollars in the last couple of years, we're in the eye of the hurricane. We've only gone through the leading edge of the storm. People think this will just be another cyclical recovery like all the others since WWII. But it's not. It's going to wind up with the currency being destroyed. It's going to be a disaster… a worldwide catastrophe.TGR: You indicated that the government is using these mass infusions of made-up money to prop up the stock market due to the psychological factor – that people will think the economy's doing well because the market is doing well. However, we hear that a lot of that money has been caught up in the banks. Would you comment on that?DC: As I said, that money has to go somewhere. The banks have been borrowing from the Fed at something like 0.5% and investing it in government securities at 2%, 3% or 4%, depending on the maturity. So, much of that money has been a direct gift to the banks; and they're basically making an arbitrage spread of 2%–4%. So, yes, that's happening with some of the money. Still, it doesn't all just sit in these Treasury securities. A great deal of it, inevitably, goes into the stock market.
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warc | 201704 | By Maylon T. Rice
Justice may be blind, but the Washington and Madison Drug Court has apparently found some success in its effort to discourage drug abuse with the unblinking eye: television.
If you’ve never stopped to catch the local Drug Court TV while flipping through the channels on local cable television, you may, many veteran television viewers say, be in a very small minority.
Drug Court TV, a production of the Washington and Madison County Drug Court and a bevy of local agencies and sponsors, is riveting television.
“Yes, it’s real. Very real.” said Judge Mary Ann Gunn of Fayetteville, the jurist, who is often at the “eye” of the television proceedings.
But it’s not some Culver City, California, studio production created to show personal and legal conflicts played out for studio audiences. These are real people with real problems with needs to be addressed with real justice.
While Hollywood has been successful with its pseudo-legal shows spouting the same mantra of “real people – real cases,” Washington and Madison Drug Court TV holds back literally nothing from the public view.
The strain of the burden of navigating the labyrinth layers of the legal system and the white-water rapids of righting their personal lives shows in those standing before the judge. It’s raw emotion. There are no directors yelling cut and no makeup artists or wardrobe stylists to make things look different than they really are.
There is no central leading lady like Judge Judy with her sidekick bailiff arguing over which former boyfriend or girlfriend borrowed money from the other. There is no fast-talking East Coaster actress like Lynn Toler or her former home grown Divorce Court predecessor Mablean Ephriam dispensing justice over a cheating spouse. And despite all his homespun humor, there is not much laughter or banter like Judge Joe Brown likes to inject into his cases.
Judge Gunn’s Drug Court TV positions local folks who have placed themselves and their families in harm’s way on center stage as they battle their life-threatening addition to drugs. There are lots of tears, fits of rage and sign after sign of the impact that drug abuse has in our communities.
Since 1999, when the Drug Court was formed, Judge Gunn began volunteering at least one full day a week, to the brisk, but marathon proceedings. The concept of a Drug Court that focuses on those in the criminal judicial system charged with drug offenses, is intended to involve participants – all with substance abuse problems – to get control over their addictions, be held accountable for their criminal actions and right their lives. But along the way, Judge Gunn and the Drug Court team – prosecutors, police, sheriff and even state police officers, civil and legal advocates, area drug treatment center staffers, mental health officials, elected officials (of every political subdivision) and a bevy of volunteers – have seen the need to educate the public, especially young people about the dangers of drug abuse. And there is no better education than Drug Court TV.
Drug Court TV is aired on the Jones Television Network and the Fayetteville government channel. The camera and court, in the Drug Court team’s way of thinking, can and is a deterrent to young people.
“Drug Court TV and the programs taking Drug Court into local schools have proven to be a good thing for young people to see,” Judge Gunn said in a recent telephone interview. “We have got to target the age of induction- that age when children are being drawn from experimenting with alcohol into drugs.”
“We are trying to break that cycle, but it is a tough cycle,” Judge Gunn said. “All of us know that there are lots of prevention examples out there. But often prevention posters, rallies and even some law enforcement sweeps are not always enough. School administrators know this is a tough cycle for this age. Young people, parents know it is a hard cycle. Law Enforcement knows it is hard cycle. But when meth enters that cycle – it is even harder to break.”
The viewer gets a jury box view of the court proceeding. The offenders are called before the judge one, after the other, to speak for themselves about their transgressions or their progress in the program.
“Learning to stand up for one’s self is part of the process,” Judge Gunn said. “It’s all part of their treatment in this program – going to meetings, meeting the criteria and speaking up for themselves and turning their lives around.”
Drug Court and the televised programs address the “vain” side of society, Judge Gunn acknowledged. “Let’s face it, a drug addition does not make you a pretty young lady or a handsome young man.
“They don’t care about their complexion, their hair or their clothes, all they care about is the meth,”
With a dental condition known as “meth mouth,” chronic meth users can lose a majority – if not all – of his or her teeth.
Often when the Drug Court members step to the microphone Judge Gunn will acknowledge how “good” they look after they have completed detox and are on their way to kicking their drug habits.
Some Drug Court members can’t overcome their addiction and some have passed away. Recently, several Drug Court participants were found to have fallen off the wagon and engaged in a wild night of drinking.
Another time one member substituted a urine sample from someone else, but was found out. Both parties in the attempted switcharoo, were prosecuted for their attempt to circumvent their signed entry into the program and for breaking the law.
On another occasion, one Drug Court participant was beaten in a local jail after he named his supplier in a court proceeding aired on Drug Court TV.
Judge Gunn and those who work to keep the Drug Court program consider it a real benefit for parents who need a venue to actually discuss what delving into drug use and the related legal, social, economic and familial issues, can be.
“I think seeing actual people here in Washington and Madison County and the problems their drug use causes them as individuals—loss of jobs, loss of family,
time spent in jail, and a hundred other issues—is something parents can use to show their children drug use is serious in so many ways,” Judge Gunn said.
Week after week, there is a starkness to the show—participants in jail scrubs, nervously wringing their hands, crying, jabbering uncontrollably—but there are also some breakthroughs to be found.
“We hope people can see that these participants can and do turn their lives around,” Judge Gunn said.
On one recent show, a middle-aged man, after 16 years of addiction to meth, graduated from the program clean and sober. He offered a few words to those in the program: Stay the course and do not give up.
Drug Court TV differs from other cable, public access and government programs, because it is more about the workings of the legal system and how a pre-adjudication program can make a difference in people’s lives, in a community and help stem the tide of drug addiction.
“Drug Court on TV, we all hope is a deterrent to the culture of drug abuse and drug use,” Judge Gunn said. “And the program, certainly is educational, on several
levels. It is about the Washington Madison County Drug Court Program and the legal system, but most importantly this whole process is about people – and helping turn a person’s life around and help them live a better, drug free life. If an appearance on Drug Court TV does that or a child, young person or adult, makes the decision not to do illegal drugs due to their fear of being on Drug Court TV, well, that too is a good thing.” What is Drug Court?
The Arkansas Legislature has designed a new method to help drug users avoid jail time and an opportunity to clean up their lives with a new tier of courts – called Drug Court.
Act 1266 of 2003 outlines the Drug Court Program as a highly structured Judicial intervention process for substance abuse treatment of eligible offenders, which requires successful completion of the Drug Court program in lieu of incarceration.
Each judicial district is authorized to have such a program like the Washington and Madison County Drug Court.
A Drug Court program is not be available to any defendant who has a pending violent criminal charge against them. The Drug Courts can be post- or pre-adjudication. The Washington and Madison County Drug
Court is a pre-adjudication process. A Drug Court team is made up of the circuit judge, prosecuting attorney, defense attorney and one or more addiction counselors who have an understanding of drug addiction.
Each offender or member the program is a voluntary participant in the program. All drug court programs are required to keep data on recidivism, relapse, restarts, sanctions imposed and incentives give to all participants.
Drug Court Numbers
833
Have participated in the Drug Court program since its inception in 1999 in Northwest Arkansas.
139
Have been denied entry into the program – largely because they did not meet the rigorous criteria to enter the program.
116
Participants who have been terminated from the program for non-compliance or other reasons.
39
People who have returned to the program, after being terminated from the program and are now active in the program again.
510
Graduates of the program. Graduation requires that members are drug-free, alcohol-free, completed all counseling, paid all court fees, fines and adjusted their lifestyle, so as not to spiral back into their former lifestyle.
154
Active participants in the current Drug Court program as of February 2002.
4
Current Drug Court participants involved in a long-term residential care program for their treatment as an initial step in the program.
6
Number of Drug Court participants in area jails. Incarceration can be a part of the treatment process, however some are there as part of their initial arrest or for other crimes.
44
Number of individuals pending transition from their situation (jail, out on bond pending trial, at a local drug or alcohol treatment facility) waiting to get into the Drug Court program.
6 or 7
Estimated number of criminal charges each participant in the Drug Court had pending against them when they were accepted into the program. The nearly 200 participants have an estimated total of almost 1,200 criminal charges on the court books.
18
Number of times each school year that Drug Court visits and holds Drug Court at area junior high and high schools. (By invitation from the schools). | 10,828 | 4,705 | 0.00022 |
warc | 201704 | Collusion, Creative Bribery & Subcontracting What to Look Out For In Your China Supply Chain From high profile tainted food scandals to adulterated construction materials causing buildings to collapse, supply chain risks in China continue to generate international headlines.
As reported time and time again, supply chain risk is realised when an uncertain or unpredictable event, affecting one or more of the parties within a supply chain, negatively impacts the achievement of business objectives. To manage and protect against these hazards, it is important that companies consider a structured and synergetic supply chain risk management process that seeks to optimise the totality of the supply chain strategy, taking into account the use of processes, human resources, technology and knowledge. The aim of supply chain management should be to control, monitor and evaluate supply chain risk, which will serve to safeguard continuity, maximise profitability and enhance enterprise value. | 995 | 565 | 0.001775 |
warc | 201704 | Localization is the adaptation of video games for regional markets, to include changing components such as graphics and cultural references. Localization is important so gamers within specific regions can enjoy the game as if it were the original, by integrating key aspects of local culture while also adhering to legal and regulatory requirements. (It is necessary to censor certain components of games in order for governments or organizations to approve a game’s release or rating.) The ultimate goal of localization is to ensure the game makes sense for natives while maintaining the original feel of the game. Localization can occur in the absence of text or audio translation. For example, no translation is necessary in manipulating images like eliminating skeletons and exposed bone in Chinese versions of games to accommodate for country restrictions.
For the purposes of this article, we will define localization in the broadest sense to mean adapting any and all aspects of a game for the local market. This can include text, graphics, audio, and even elements of story design and gameplay. Within this context, we define three degrees of localization, each a deeper dive into the adaptation process and each associated with increasing time and cost of implementation. We call these degrees “Simple Localization,” “Partial Culturalization,” and “Full Culturalization.” These are depicted in the diagram below along with examples of typical activities associated with each. Note that these divisions are somewhat arbitrary and were chosen to make it easy to conceptualize the overall process. The horizontal axis represents a continuum, and the question of which activities belong to which degree is just a question of semantics. The main point being that as you engage in deeper culturalization of your game, the greater the cost will be in terms of time and money.
* * * * * “Culturalization is going a step further beyond [simple] localization as it takes a deeper look into a game’s fundamental assumptions and content choices, and then gauges the viability in both the broad, multicultural marketplace as well as in specific geographic locales. [Simple] localization helps gamers simply comprehend the game’s content (primarily through translation), but culturalization helps gamers to potentially engage with the game’s content at a much deeper, more meaningful level.” ~ The Game Localization Handbook, 2 nd edition, page 26 Heather Maxwell Chandler & Stephanie O’Malley Deming * * * * *
It is no secret that the popularity of Facebook and other social media platforms together with the accessibility of development tools have created a perfect storm that has enabled the explosive growth of social gaming apps. Companies looking to increase their market share in this highly fragmented space must expand their global reach, given that over 50% of worldwide game revenue comes from markets outside the US. In a world of rapid internationalization, game developers realize it is important not only to translate games but to localize (or culturalize) as well. Yet, the app store is a rapidly evolving space with thousands of new apps submitted every month and over 100 games submitted
every day. With the culturalization process adding valuable time to the translation of games, when is it important to delve deeper into culturalization, and when does it make sense to forgo certain aspects of culturalization for faster time to market?
Language Automation, Inc. (LAI, @LanguageAutoInc) was at the Mobile Gaming USA (#MGUSA) conference in San Francisco last month, where we heard important players in the social gaming space both here and in Asian markets speak about what it means to “take your games global” and what this means for culturalizing games in the mobile market. Among the presenters were Paul Chen, Vice President of Developer Relations at PapayaMobile (an open mobile social network for casual Android gamers, headquartered in Beijing with an office here in Menlo Park); Kyu Lee, Vice President of GAMEVIL (an award-winning mobile game publisher with offices in Seoul and Los Angeles); and Randy Lee, Director of Business Development at CrowdStar (a top social gaming company based in the Bay Area and a major player in the Japanese market). Although each of these social gaming professionals recognizes the need for culturalizing games, they also speak to the importance of rapidly publishing games for the mobile market.
To Culturalize, or Not to Culturalize, That is the Question
There are some cases in which it is critical to culturalize at least particular aspects of games in order to adhere to the strict game regulations of Asia. The Japanese market already saw a sudden decline in social gaming due to gambling laws and a pending lawsuit for the sale of social gaming items through compugacha (similar to real life gashapon machines in which customers must find complete sets of rare items for even rarer items, often resulting in thousands of dollars spent by a single consumer in one month). A panelist at the Social Gaming USA conference referenced a game where it was necessary to change briefly shown flesh-colored parts of a female changing clothes to resemble a colored tank top. Since failure to comply with local game regulations can cause a dramatic loss in profits and market share, it is in a company’s best interest to culturalize not only currently regulated aspects of gaming but to also foresee problems like compugacha and gambling laws in Japan.
Due to the panelists’ extensive experience in the North American and Asian mobile gaming markets, each recognizes the need for culturalizing mobile games in certain instances – ex. making games harder for the Korean market than the American market. Yet, they also understand the importance of sometimes eliminating the culturalization process, citing the “hunger” in China for Western games and the tendency to merely translate games for China as opposed to culturalizing them. The need to eliminate culturalization is even greater when it comes to the mobile gaming space.
Differences between Console-Based Games and Mobile Games – Implications for Culturalization
It is of course important to contextualize games for different regional markets (for example, using a soccer ball for other markets when an original American version includes a football), yet it is equally critical to recognize the unique market of mobile gaming when juxtaposed against the traditional console space. While it is common place for console-based game developers to spend many extra months translating and culturalizing games for foreign markets, mobile games often do not have the luxury of time.
Mobile gamers expect fast results, even faster than Facebook’s social gamers. Jason Loia, COO of Digital Chocolate, says that although Facebook players don’t mind waiting hours for a tree to grow in order to harvest fruit, mobile players may have only a few minutes to play and therefore expect faster methods of gameplay and tutorials. Since the mobile market space is highly fragmented, mobile users can quickly and easily download competitors’ games. According to the Mobile Gaming USA’s panel “Taking Your Games Global,” this could mean lost opportunity for capitalization if an extra 6+ months is spent culturalizing a game that turns out to be a “flop.”
When assessing the need to culturalize, it is critical to assess the specific segment of the marketplace – social vs. console-based and mobile vs. online gaming – in conjunction with cultural market expectations (such as the commonplace practice of forgoing culturalization for the Chinese social gaming market). Although hardcore gamers expect delays in the translation and localization (culturalization) of console-based games and will wait long periods of time for the superb translation of a major title, the social gaming space is vastly different, particularly when it comes to mobile games. The games of mobile users are easily substitutable, except in the case of true brand loyalty such as diehard fans of Rovio’s
Angry Birds. The lifecycle of mobile games is also significantly shorter than other games. Therefore, a company that chooses to spend an extra half a year or so culturalizing a game may miss out on a social gaming trend critical to their game’s success.
Back to the main question – when to forgo culturalization? Look at the trends and stats for the marketplace and determine whether it makes sense to immediately take your product to market. You certainly don’t want your game or the authority of your company to diminish by ignoring the importance of culturalization, but you also don’t want to miss out on a market opportunity in the mobile gaming space by spending too much time on culturalization. It may make sense to partially culturalize a game as opposed to fully culturalizing. It is important to strike a balance – culturalize where relevant but be wary of time to market. | 9,150 | 4,060 | 0.000252 |
warc | 201704 | Welcome Instapundit Readers!!
Like many intellectually-inclined individuals born in the Midwest, I chose to attend college in New England and settle in cities outside my native region, first living in the Washington, D.C.-metropolitan area and now in Los Angeles. And while many of my peers who made similar journeys share my politics, most do not. It seems that when they pull up stakes, they lose all allegiance to their place of birth–and the people who live there.
They behave as if because they’re so much smarter than the folks they left behind, they know better how to run their lives than they do. They heap scorn on those who don’t know the difference between Hegel and Heidegger and can’t name a single German film director from the 1920s or a French one from the 1960s. In fact, most of the folk left behind probably couldn’t name more than one or two American directors for the 200os.
We conservatives, most of us at least, are a tad more humble. While we appreciate the company of those with whom we can share our intellectual/cultural pursuits, we recognize that our supposed smarts don’t give us the qualifications to run the lives of our youthful companions or to question their world view. Sometimes, we’re even aware that these folks have more practical intelligence than we do; we even turn to them for advice on matters of running our households and managing our money.
Yet, many of our left-wing counterparts just can’t accept that those in the hinterlands just don’t trust the judgments of their betters. How, they exclaim, could anyone find the
Blind Side entertaining or, in generations past, couldn’t get enough of John Wayne movies? Just take a gander at Jacob Weisberg’s latest lament: “what may be the biggest culprit in our current predicament: the childishness, ignorance, and growing incoherence of the public at large.”
He then goes on to tell us just what it is that makes the American people so ignorant and incoherent: “We want Washington and the states to fix all of our problems now. At the same time, we want government to shrink, spend less, and reduce our taxes.” Guess he missed the latest Gallup poll. The American people don’t want the the government to solve our problems, well, most of us don’t and I would dare say the better part of the 38 percent who do lives in regions near Mr. Weisberg and, well, myself.
But, I guess he just can’t let go of his prejudices.
In the past few days, I have read two columns taking on people like Mr. Weisberg. In The Great Peasant Revolt of 2010, Charles Krathammer observes that Democrats understand the results in Massachusetts
. . . through a prism of two cherished axioms: (1) The people are stupid and (2) Republicans are bad. Result? The dim, led by the malicious, vote incorrectly. . . . Liberals [believe that they] act in the public interest, while conservatives think only of power, elections, self-aggrandizement and self-interest.
What was “dissent” when a Republican was in office becomes “malice” now that a Democrat leads the nation.
In a more exhaustive piece on liberal condescension (in the same left-leaning daily!), Gerard Alexander contends such condescension is “part of a liberal tradition”
. . . that for generations has impoverished American debates over the economy, society and the functions of government — and threatens to do so again today, when dialogue would be more valuable than ever.
Liberals have dismissed conservative thinking for decades, a tendency encapsulated by Lionel Trilling’s 1950 remark that conservatives do not “express themselves in ideas but only in action or in irritable mental gestures which seek to resemble ideas.” During the 1950s and ’60s, liberals trivialized the nascent conservative movement. Prominent studies and journalistic accounts of right-wing politics at the time stressed paranoia, intolerance and insecurity, rendering conservative thought more a psychiatric disorder than a rival. In 1962, Richard Hofstadter referred to “the Manichaean style of thought, the apocalyptic tendencies, the love of mystification, the intolerance of compromise that are observable in the right-wing mind.”
This sense of liberal intellectual superiority dropped off during the economic woes of the 1970s and the Reagan boom of the 1980s. (Jimmy Carter’s presidency, buffeted by economic and national security challenges, generated perhaps the clearest episode of liberal self-doubt.) But these days, liberal confidence and its companion disdain for conservative thinking are back with a vengeance, finding energetic expression in politicians’ speeches, top-selling books, historical works and the blogosphere. This attitude comes in the form of four major narratives about who conservatives are and how they think and function.
In the end, I think the difference between intellectual conservatives are our counterparts on the left is this: when we recognize our preference for ideas over action, for the life of the mind over that of the body, we recognize that we are different from our less intellectual fellows. Our liberal peers, however, believe they are better than the associates of their youth.
We appreciate those differences; many liberals deride them. And they’re the ones who make such a fuss over diversity.
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warc | 201704 | 市場調查報告書
全球機械視覺解決方案市場 The Global Market for Machine Vision Solutions 出版商 VDC Research Group, Inc. 商品編碼 322430 出版日期 內容資訊 英文 24 Pages
商品交期: 最快1-2個工作天內
價格
本報告提供全球機械視覺系統及解決方案(硬體設備、軟體、服務)的市場相關調查以及主要趨勢及成長推進因素分析、各解決方案類型、最終用途產業、地區的市場收益的變化與預測、市場機會分析、競爭環境與廠商市場佔有率等彙整資料。
This research analyzes the key strategic issues, trends, and market drivers for machine vision systems and solutions (includes hardware, software, and services). Market analysis (base year 2013 and forecast revenues through 2018), vendor considerations, and growth opportunities are offered across the following dimensions: solution type, end-user industries, and geographies.
VDC forecasts the global machine vision (MV) solutions market to grow to $X.X billion by 2018 from $X.X billion in 2013, at a healthy CAGR of X.X%. However, no single market participant accounted for more than XX% of the overall share, highlighting the fragmented and potentially commoditized nature of this space. The top 10 vendors in this space only account for about XX% of overall market share, which makes it a very challenging landscape in which to compete.
[Data available in full report.]
VDC believes hardware innovation alone is no longer a sustainable business development and growth strategy in this market. Vendors will have to look beyond their traditional focus areas and expand aggressively into new verticals and application environments while also enhancing their solution portfolios to include software and services - either by developing in-house expertise or by forging strong relationships with the broader channel community. Systems integrators with domain expertise and application developers will be highly sought after as market participants look to differentiate themselves from their competition.
Although factory automation applications drive vision-based system adoption and spend levels today, emerging verticals will generate investor interest and shape future market direction for leading solution providers. MV use is breaking out of traditional deployments in industrial settings and is now gaining increased consideration in environments including logistics, security & surveillance, and traffic monitoring & control.
Exhibit 1: Forecasted Global Shipments of Machine Vision Systems (US $M)
VDC forecasts the global machine vision solutions market to grow to $5.8 billion by 2018 from $X.X billion in 2013, at a healthy CAGR of X.X%. Overall revenues will grow at X.X% from 2013 to 2014 with standalone software sales projected to grow the fastest. Hardware revenues, including those derived from smart cameras, industrial cameras, vision sensors, and turnkey machine vision systems, account for more than XX% of overall sales.
Application-specific machine vision (ASMV) expertise is becoming rather necessary as organizations place growing emphasis on real-time visibility, short lead times, and process optimization. Such turnkey systems have especially gained favor for surface inspection applications including for glass, wafers, printed circuit boards (PCBs), flat panel displays, and touchscreens - detecting surface defects as well as missing or incorrectly placed components.
Vendors that provide such solutions include KLA-Tencor, Orbotech, and Seidenader Maschinenbau GmbH.
At the same time, smart cameras with built-in processing capabilities are also becoming increasingly popular, particularly among enterprise users with configurable machine vision deployment requirements. Low upfront investment costs and ability to undertake simple functions makes them especially appealing for organizations with no need for a highly customized, application-specific solution.
The need for process automation and operational consistency on the manufacturing shop floor has never been more pronounced. To remain competitive in today's global economy, enterprises need to make strategic investments that will help them achieve their production goals while eliminating inefficiencies. Machine vision solutions are a critical factor in that equation. Vision systems are being developed, deployed, and integrated into automation solutions across several different manufacturing environments to help machine builders and end users achieve their performance objectives and growth targets. These solutions enable organizations to improve their bottom lines by trimming purchasing costs, maintaining and/or improving quality, increasing productivity, and enhancing asset utilization. Rapid advancements in camera technology (including image capture, data acquisition, and hardware pricing), coupled with growing reliance on automation for defect prevention and quality assurance, will contribute to high growth rates through the next five years.
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warc | 201704 | I don’t think any thinking person believes that the future is secure for humanity. The future is bleak. And may well be Orange, a colour of deserts, poison, contaminated water, nuclear explosions and death. Since the realization in the late 1950s that the earth’s environment is rapidly degrading as a result of human activity, there have been few attempts to deal with the overall problem. There has been no real new ideological analysis since Marx, whose historical class approach has not been valid for a long time. Yet such an analysis is not difficult, but is most necessary. There is no new flag that those who are watching the destruction of their future, can stand beside. The early Green Party made an effort, and indeed I was involved in that, but it tried to deal with the problem from within the problem itself, and missed some important clues to the failings of “Democracy”.
My main work as an activist, as a political animal, has been to try and warn against the control of truth exercised by scientists, principally physicists. The area where this has been most deadly is in the analysis of the effects of radioactive pollution. But in taking on the nuclear and military complex, and with a degree of success, I found it necessary to ask how it was that such a cartel had become so powerful. And to keep stepping back from the problem until it could be seen as a nested culture embedded in other nested cultures which supported and sustained it. The Nuclear Industry and its radioactive pollution activities, which are currently killing millions every year, is only one part of the huge culturally constructed monster that has been brought into existence, perhaps in some ways accidentally, or at least in ways that were not predictable as it was being put together by science, economics and greed.
This led eventually to a decision I made to create a new ideology, and I will publish this soon. If I disappear then it will be published by my lawyers. An early presentation of the problem was presented in Riga in 2012. Latvian culture has not yet been destroyed by the global market machine but it is on the way to being absorbed. It is a small population country with resources, and in principle could pull out of the system and become the new Utopia.
Here are my thoughts on the issue. | 2,328 | 1,203 | 0.00084 |
warc | 201704 | What’s this we hear about the
Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce getting preferential treatment over other regional development associations in the form of a $100,000. grant earmarked for the purpose of sweet-talking Quebec businesses in what are described as “outreach efforts?” The appropriation started out as a $500,000 fund for marketing Vermont as a good place to do business. That amount shrank to $200,000 during conference committee, and the Quebec outreach proposals appeared in the waning hours of the session as a $100,000 appropriation. The money comes from the Vermont Enterprise Fund, which was originally intended as a cash incentive for the IBM sale to GlobalFoundries but was never used for that purpose.
So, in other words, a slush fund created to groom private economic interests from abroad appears to have been opportunistically hijacked by the Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce before the rest of the boys were even given a peek under the hood.
What surprises me is that this comes as any kind of a surprise to
Tim Smith of the Franklin County Industrial Development Authority.
Mr. Smith objects to what he correctly sees as an unfair advantage negotiated by the LCRCC, and a lack of transparency in the process.
All I can say is welcome to my world, Mr. Smith.
In the broader world of politics, the Chamber is not known for playing fair.
And while we are on the subject of local Chambers of Commerce, why are we still allowing them so much unfettered influence on the business of business in Vermont?
The answer is probably that they have become so insidious in small town America that we hardly notice they are here.
Most Vermonters completely overlook their connection to the soulless Mother Ship of Greed: the
U.S. Chamber of Commerce, a powerful global economic player which just this past week was excoriated by the New York times for engaging in an organized effort to combat anti-smoking efforts around the world.
Already infamous for their efforts to discredit Climate Change science, the Chamber is also the champion of the tobacco industry as it faces off against expanding health education that is making it more and more difficult to ply this killer trade even in third world countries.
Three years ago, Ukraine filed an international legal challenge against Australia, over Australia’s right to enact antismoking laws on its own soil… Taras Kachka…argued that several “fantastic tobacco companies” had bought up Soviet-era factories and modernized them, and now they were exporting tobacco to many other countries. It was in Ukraine’s national interest, he said, to support investors in the country, even though they do not sell tobacco to Australia.
Mr. Kachka was not a tobacco lobbyist or farmer or factory owner.
He was the head of a Ukrainian affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce,America’s largest trade group.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce derives its power from the sheer number of small local and regional affiliates that unify under its name. It is their passivity with regards to the Chamber’s overarching agenda of anti-Climate science and pro-smoking that allows it to continue against the forces of both education and common sense.
When the state awards funds to even a minor agency of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, it becomes complicit with their appalling agenda.
Until local and regional Chambers rise up and conspicuously disassociate themselves from the Mother Ship, they will get no quarter from me. | 3,553 | 1,743 | 0.000586 |
warc | 201704 | Apple recently reported astounding financial results in which profits grew by an awe inspiring 50% on a huge basis with Net Profits Margin of 30% which is crazy for a company of Apple’s size. It generates massive cash flows and has over $100 billion in its cash war chest. While there are a number of reasons which makes Apple one of the most successful and profitable companies in world history, the global oversupply of labor is one of the chief reasons which is overlooked at .
A recent breakdown of Apple’s Business Model shows that its get almost 2/3rds of the value generated by its globalized supply chain while its main manufacturer Foxconn does not even reach double digits . Foxconn the HK based global outsourcing giant employs 1 million workers and makes products for major global MNCs like Microsoft and others. The condition of the workers in its factories are pathetic with most workers getting hardly $10/day . For Apple earning more than 50% GM on its products paying $10/ day to its workers would generate massive protests. However since its exploits globalization of labor ,it escapes any public scrutiny or protests. Since it is outsourcing manufacturing to Foxconn it escapes the blame for the numerous suicides and systematic exploitation of the workers. Global Capitalism is working too well for the capitalists, corporations and too badly for the global workers.
One of my theories is that a lot of distortions and opportunities for arbitrage that we are seeing in the world today is because “Labor is not Globalized while Capital and Trade are “.However the Restrictions on the “Globalization” or in other words Free Movement of Labor is being reduced through the following trends
Improvement in Communication and Transportation, that has given rise to Outsourcing Creation of regional blocs like the NAFTA,ASEAN ,EU etc. has allowed broken the labor barriers within the bloc between the members.This has resulted in “winners” in the form of the “poorer members labor” and “losers” in the form of “richer members labor” . MNCs like IBM,Applied Materials with operations spread across multiple countries exploiting this situation by moving most of their labor requirements to low cost locations .
Net income more than doubled to $13.1 billion as Apple sold 37 million iPhones and posted $46.3 billion in sales. The total ranks among the highest quarterly profits on record. Apple’s earnings were about 11 times the size of Zambia’s gross domestic product.The company’s almost $100 billion in cash and equivalents is larger than the combined market value of Boeing Co., Alcoa Inc. and Travelers Cos. — three of the 30 Dow Jones Industrial Average companies. For calendar 2011, Apple’s sales rose to $127.8 billion, bigger than the size of New Zealand’s economy, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.
Foxconn, which manufactures gadgets for the likes of Apple, Sony, Nintendo and HP, among many others, has had a grim history of suicides at its factories. A suicide cluster in 2010 saw 18 workers throw themselves from the tops of the company’s buildings, with 14 deaths.In the aftermath of the suicides, Foxconn installed safety nets in some of its factories and hired counsellors to help its workers.Several reports from inside Foxconn factories have suggested that while the company is more advanced than many of its competitors, it is run in a “military” fashion that many workers cannot cope with. At Foxconn’s flagship plant in Longhua, five per cent of its workers, or 24,000 people, quit every month. | 3,660 | 1,816 | 0.00057 |
warc | 201704 | Don't count on your toddler being willing to eat airline meals and snacks! Little chewy fruit snacks work great during takeoff and landing for keeping his ears comfortable, and the different shapes keep him interested.
Look into purchasing some Goodnites. These protect kids from accidents (which tend to happen often while traveling) but are more underwear-like. They fit kids over 125lbs. Any kids who you are traveling with (especially in the car) should wear them just in case. It can really save clothes and car interiors in heavy traffic. Goodnites can fit kids anywhere from 3 to 16 years old too.
When traveling with children by air, if at all possible book at non-peak times (late at night, midday and Monday to Wednesday). This gives you a chance at a free seat for your child to stretch out and sleep. Arrive at the airport early. Sprints down an endless terminal are difficult enough, but nearly impossible when packing a baby on your back and holding a small child's hand. When traveling by car and you bring along "treats" NEVER give out them out too fast! Try every hour. You might even take a timer.
When traveling with small children, take along a package of outlet covers. Most hotel rooms neglect to provide these little shock savers, and there are often outlets placed tantalizingly at child height. For rooms equipped with stoves/ ovens, remember to bring knob covers, or simply remove the knobs while not in use.
When travelling with children, be sure to pack a change of clothes for yourself. Time and again my children have spilled sticky drinks all over me on the plane and I was glad I had thought to bring extra clothes for myself! Also it helps to premake airsickness bags at home as the ones the airlines provide are not always there. Another tip--put some cold drinks such as Capri Sun or juice boxes in your carry-on. If your child is thirsty and it will be a while for the drink steward to come down the isle, you will be glad you have them. | 1,981 | 1,068 | 0.00094 |
warc | 201704 | See More: Articles
Home Prices Spike Upward in Last 12 Months
Gelman, Rosenberg & Freedman CPAs is a member of CPAmerica International, an association of CPA and consulting firms that provides industry knowledge including insightful articles, to help member firms serve clients and other individuals and organizations.
Dec 3, 2013
Home prices are showing the fastest growth in nearly eight years, with one-third of the housing markets nationwide showing double-digit increases.
Nine out of 10 of the nation’s major metropolitan markets experienced price gains during the past 12 months, as the median price nationwide of a single-family home rose to $207,300 in the third quarter of 2013, up 12.5 percent from $184,300 a year ago, according to National Association of Realtor statistics. Those median prices mean that half the houses in the country sold for more than $207,300, and half for less.
Distressed homes – foreclosures and short sales – accounted for 14 percent of all sales compared to 24 percent a year ago.
Home prices have risen to the approximate level they were in 2004, the statistics show. The median home price nationwide rose to a high of more than $220,000 in 2006 before falling off to a low of about $165,000 in 2011.
The West has the highest home prices in the country and has also seen the biggest price increase during the past 12 months:
Median Price % Increase West $289,100 17% Northeast $256,800 4.5% South $181,300 12.2% Midwest 164,700 8.9%
Four of the five highest-priced housing markets in the country are in California: San Jose ($805,000), San Francisco ($705,000), Anaheim-Santa Ana ($670,700) and San Diego, ($485,000). Honolulu rounds out the top five with a median home price of $679,800.
Currently, there are approximately 2.2 million single-family homes on the market, slightly higher than a year ago when 2.17 million homes were for sale. The number of sales the past year was the highest since 2007.
In the condo market, prices rose even faster at a rate of 15.1 percent, with the median price of $205,400 for a condo in the 54 metropolitan markets studied in the report.
The Midwest and the Northeast saw bigger increases than the South or West in the condo market.
Not surprisingly, some of the areas that had the biggest declines during the recession showed the biggest increases in single-family home prices during the past 12 months. Most were in Florida and California.
City % Increase in Price 1. Sacramento, Calif. 41.8% 2. Las Vegas, Nev. 31.9% 3. Punta Gorda, Fla. 31.9% 4. Jacksonville, Fla. 29.3% 5. Riverside/San Bernadino, Calif. 28.4% 6. Reno, Nev. 26.8% 7. Los Angeles/Santa Ana, Calif. 26.2% 8. Phoenix/Mesa/Scottsdale, Ariz. 25.0% 9. Sarasota/Bradenton, Fla. 24.3% 10. San Francisco, Calif. 24.1% 11. Lakeland, Fla. 24.0% 12. Orlando, Fla. 23.9% 13. San Diego, Calif. 23.0% 14. Tallahassee, Fla. 22.2% 15. Naples, Fla. 21.6%
AUVSI has had a relationship with the firm of Gelman, Rosenberg & Freedman, and specifically Jim Larson, for eight years.
Daryl Davidson | Executive Director
Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International | 3,134 | 1,582 | 0.000639 |
warc | 201704 | Career & Postgraduate Opportunities Both the urban studies major and the urban studies minor provide an excellent background for students who wish to pursue advanced training for careers in: Local and regional government Urban planning Public administration The academic world Various private institutions that deal with urban problems. U.S. News and World Report featured Urban Regional Planner as one of America’s Best Careers for both 2009 and 2010, contending that the field is rife with opportunity and provides interesting and fulfilling work. Their December 2009 article about urban planning contends, “An expanding population has created the need for additional transportation systems, affordable housing, and schools in many parts of the country. The urban and regional planning field is expected to grow 19 percent from 38,400 jobs in 2008 to 45,700 jobs by 2018. Most of the new jobs will be with state and local governments.” | 954 | 571 | 0.001783 |
warc | 201704 | The body has long been decorated, enhanced and, where possible, even physically modified to project a desired image, and hair, which can be painlessly altered, has always been top on the self-modification list. This malleability makes hair the ideal medium for self-expression, a fact which has fueled an ever-growing market for shampoos, conditioners, mechanical devices and, above all, styling aids.
Although feeling good is primary to any consumer, looking good runs a close second, and for good reason: research indicates that, like it or not, first impressions do have a significant impact, and the main thrust of any first impression is visual. According to a study conducted by Yale University, New Haven, CT and commissioned by Physique, Procter & Gamble’s styling-based hair care line, hair style can communicate a wide variety of perceived character traits, from intelligence to sexiness to whether the wearer may be the correct candidate for a job or trustworthy enough to date. In the study, which was directed by Dr. Marianne LaFrance, professor of psychology and professor of women’s and gender studies at Yale University, young women and men of diverse ethnic backgrounds were asked to respond to 300 digital images of three men and three women. The images showcased a variety of hairstyles which were rated by the respondents on a scale of one to six using 10 adjectives: sexy, intelligent, outgoing, self-centered, poor, unpleasant, polished, confident, narrow-minded and careless. Though a variety of hairstyles were studied, only a limited number of models—each wearing several different hairstyles—were used. In the study, each model was viewed differently according to his or her ‘do. When the female model sported a short, tousled coiffure she was viewed as confident and outgoing, while her longer, straight, blonde locks evoked a sexy and affluent image. A medium-length, casual women’s look was perceived as the most good-natured. The male model’s short, front-flip style appeared sexy but also self-centered, while one myth was reinforced in that both men and women with long hair were viewed as generally less intelligent. A medium length side part for men was seen as narrow-minded but also the smartest and most affluent of the hair perceptions studied. Given the visual impact of one’s coiffure, it is no surprise that the hair care category has evolved over time to include styling aids that accommodate virtually any look-of-the-moment. Today’s mixed bag of hair styles—and the products required to achieve them—has broadened the hair styling aid market significantly, fueled by the contemporary emphasis on individualized looks as opposed to the cookie-cutter styles of days gone by. There is, it would seem, something for everyone in the hair styling market. “There is a broad versatility in both styles and styling products today,” confirmed Stephanie Schneider, senior hair scientist, Pantene product development, “and consumers seek out products that they can use in a variety of ways in order to achieve a number of different styles.” Consumer enthusiasm for experimentation in this category was confirmed by last year’s sales results. Dollar sales of hair sprays and spritzes were up 1.8% for the year ended Feb. 25, 2001, at $599 million in food, drug and mass merchandising stores, according to Information Resources Inc. (IRI), Chicago. Dollar sales of styling and setting gels and mousses rose 14.7%, to $605 million. “What we’re seeing at Pantene is that more and more, consumers want to create new styles themselves,” noted Ms. Schneider. “Mousses and gels are growing faster than sprays right now. Consumers desire a certain style and want to know how to achieve it themselves, and although sprays are great for keeping a finished style in place or for smoothing down the hair, it takes a gel or mousse to actually get the style in the first place.” She added that with new information and styling tips in magazines, on television and on the internet, consumers are becoming more skilled at styling than in the past. “People want to experiment with their hair. Styling aids help them to achieve the creative looks they want.” Turning Heads Creativity does seem to be the name of the game in today’s styling aid market, but achieving salon looks at home requires the use of more, and better, tools. Major marketers are meeting this challenge both with new product lines and increased consumer education. Procter & Gamble’s Pantene, the top brand in gels and mousses and No. 3 in the spray category for the 52-week period ending Feb. 25 according to IRI, has created style-specific subcategories with its Pro-V collections. All contain the Pro-V trademark ingredient—an exclusive pro-vitamin complex containing panthenol, panthenyl ethyl ether, dimethicone and fatty alcohols—and each is a complete line, removing the need to mix-and-match conditioners, styling aids and shampoos. A new pearlescent-colored packaging and proprietary anti-clogging nozzle round out the look, performance and philosophy that Pantene executives were looking for. “The idea behind the collections was to provide consumers with a holistic experience rather than simply targeting a problem,” explained Ms. Schneider. “In talking to consumers, we found that shoppers generally selected products based on a particular hair type, but research showed that 80% of consumers were misdiagnosing their hair types and not getting the results they desired.” The answer was an end-look oriented series which takes into account both hair type and styling requirements, according to Ms. Schneider: “What the collections do is to address what the customer wants as an end result. Instead of just asking, ‘does she want maximum hold?’ or ‘is her hair dry/oily?’ we asked, ‘what is the right combination of products she needs to create the style she wants?’” This consumer-based initiative reflects the company’s focus on consumer education, which is now available through its website in the form of styling tips and guidance in product selection. A simple quiz helps identify the individual’s cleansing and styling requirements and lists the appropriate styling products. Once the consumer’s requirements are identified, she can access a home page geared toward the collection of products that is best for her in order to obtain specific product information, photo visuals of Pro V-treated locks and hair care advice. The company’s five Pro-V collections include Volumizing, for fuller-looking hair; Smoothing, to deliver a straight, sleek, frizz-free style; Curls, to create lively, defined curls; Color Care, to maintain and condition color-treated hair and Basic Care, to develop health and shine. Each collection includes at least one shampoo, conditioner and styling aid as well as repairative or enhancing products. The Volumizing collection includes a Body-Builder gel and mousse as well as an Energy Boost styling tonic, while Curls contains Scrunching gel, Curl Defining mousse and Curl Reviving treatment spray. Color Care includes an Intensive Care masque and Radiant Response gel and mousse. Smoothing offers Frizz Down calming masque and Get It Straight gel for a sleek effect. To promote Physique, P&G is also leaning toward result-oriented products and consumer self-education. “We offer consumers an end-look, whereas in the past individuals were buying by hair type,” confirmed Mary Pochobradsky, brand manager, Physique. Three new collections—Volumizing, Straight Shape and Curl Defining—and a six-collection styling series offer styling sprays as well as foams, lotions or gels, shampoos and conditioners, all of which work together to allow the consumer to achieve the look she wants. Physique also offers a Special Collection, which includes Precision pomade, a Styling stick and Styling spray. “These forms are new; they have creamy textures and are a little unusual. They’re very different,” noted Ms. Pochobradsky. “Consumers need to experiment and learn how to apply them, which is one service we offer on our website. It’s all part of a transformation in hair care.” Among the most innovative of Physique’s new products are Spiral cream, a technology that tames frizz by aligning irregular air spaces and leaving curls softly defined; Styling spray, a targeted mist system that defines and holds curls for up to 20 hours; Contouring lotion, to smooth the hair surface and reduce fly-aways and the Styling stick, an extremely versatile product that adds texture and definition to create virtually any style the consumer wants, according to company executives. Physique’s series products retail from $3.50-$9. L’Oréal turned to its consulting hairstylist Oribe, who works with celebrities including Jennifer Lopez, Sharon Stone and Gwyneth Paltrow according to the company, in developing its latest styling products. “The tousled, sexy look is really popular with women today,” Oribe observed. “You can add texture, movement and shine to any style with the right styling products.” In January the company introduced Studio Line FX Toss, a lotion that provides instant texture and creates unstructured, tousled looks on short or medium-length hair, company executives said. Separation and a “pieced” effect can be achieved by sectioning out selected strands of hair and applying varying amounts of Toss in order to achieve a multi-textured, unstructured effect. To finish this or another style, Oribe suggests Fast Forward Quick Dry hair spray. The spray contains patent-pending resins that work with a patent-pending aerosol device to dry in seconds and leave the hair feeling soft and natural. Since the product goes on cool and dry, styles aren’t weighed down. The spray is available in Extra Strong and Flexible Strong hold levels. Both products offer the additional benefit of adding shine, according to the company. The Studio FX line also includes Fresh Styling water, Melting gel and Liquid gel, which offer uncomplicated, non-sticky styles with movement. The products retail for $3.29 each. A New Perspective Waxes, pomades, tonics and combination products are appearing on store shelves more and more these days. However, industry experts agree that traditional sprays and spritzes still have a place in the consumer mindset. Rather than negating traditional forms, the newer styling aids serve to pack a multi-beneficial punch that, when used along with sprays or spritzes, create and maintain today’s styles, according to industry experts. “We still offer the best in technology for styling sprays. They’re 50% of our styling market,” revealed Ms. Pochobradsky of Physique. At the same time, she acknowledged the introduction of new forms on the styling scene: “As people experiment with new products, we are seeing the styling segment growing with pomades, styling sticks, creams and lotions.” Designed to be used in conjunction with their corresponding styling aids for maximum benefit, Physique’s sprays include Amplifying, Spiral, Contouring and Styling, all of which are available in non-aerosol versions and retail for $7, and Motionless aerosol spray, which also retails for $7. Vidal Sassoon created its VS Sassoon Salon Collection with the input of top stylists from its 21 salons and 13 teaching academies worldwide, according to company executives. The 31 SKU collection contains products that can be mixed and matched to create a unique regimen. The items range in price from $5-12. The research involved in developing the products was extensive: “Our stylists tested, rejected and approved a vast variety of products until we came up with the perfect VS Sassoon formulas that would help our clients recreate these sought-after looks in their own homes,” confirmed Peter Gray, the company’s editorial director. The VS Sassoon Salon Collection is based on a three-step process: cleansing/conditioning, style and finish. Selecting from among the products in each of the three categories, the consumer can balance, color-protect, volumize or de-frizz before moving along to a broad range of styling product options. Individuals can receive styling help and advice on product selection on the company’s website or on the packaging with a “you have...you want...here’s how” graph. Among the line’s most interesting SKUs are Polishing drops, which add shine and refined style to either wet or dry hair and Molding clay, a putty-like formula which can be used to separate or twist the hair while providing a matte finish. Sprays in the Collection include Lifter spray gel and Heat Styling, Volumizing, Flexible Hair, Shine and Ultra Firm hair sprays. The products became available exclusively at Vidal Sassoon salons and the company’s internet site in February. Unilever’s Rave and Suave sprays and spritzes, which remain the No. 1 and No. 2 brands in the category once again with sales of $65 million and $47 million respectively, each registered gains last year. Of the two, Suave experienced the more significant increase, at 13.7%, according to IRI. The value brand offers a complete line of sprays, spritzes, gels and mousses. Among its more recent category additions are the herbal formulations, which include chamomile and passion flower Extra- and Flexible-Hold sprays, herbal lavender Spray gel and herbal lavender Shine gel, Frizz Control aloe vera gel and Extra Control rosemary mousse. A Shaping gel, Extra Control mousse and Maximum Control mousse are also available, offering consumers a variety of styling options at a lower cost than some manufacturers. May All Be Coiffed New styling aid collection B in10se (be intense) was designed to not only coiff but condition, according to The Lamaur Corporation, Minneapolis, MN. B in-10se gels contain microspheres that release such ingredients as jojoba oil, vitamins E, A and B5 and sunscreens upon application, protecting the hair from sun, wind and even chlorine. Unlike the rinse-off action commonly found in shampoos and conditioners, the microspheres, which are broken open by the actions of palm blending and finger combing, stay in the hair to protect and nourish in addition to maintaining style, according to company executives. B in10se’s styling gels include four different levels of hold: Softwear Hold (level 1), Dominant Hold (level 2), Extreme Hold (level 3) and Hyper Hold (level 4). While the ingredients within the microspheres coat and condition the hair, the gels deliver the desired level of hold with a soft feel and no flakes. The product was introduced in March and retails for $6.99. B in10se is also breaking new ground with a pre-mixed gel/cream in B in10se Créme Gelee. According to the company, Créme Gelee follows the principle that most salons employ: combining different types of styling products in order to achieve the ideal combination of volume, hold and shine. Créme Gelee combines a water-based gel with an oil based conditioning cream to form a stable emulsion that repels water to control frizz, add volume and provide hold. At the same time, the product delivers the shine and silkiness that keeps hair looking healthy, company executives said. The product retails for $6.99. B in10se’s slant toward a younger market, as evidenced by its multi-level hold styling aids and its hip and trendy product names, is a phenomenon that is cropping up throughout the hair care industry. “Younger consumers are important and are helping to drive the market,” confirmed Ms. Schneider of Pantene. She added that girls as young as middle-school age experiment with different holds and styles, while boys tend to start styling in high school and stick primarily with gels for extreme or firm-hold looks. Dippity-Do, originally introduced in 1945, helped propel the younger market in later years due to its ability to hold more dramatic styles, especially among the experiment-oriented and individuality-seeking high school and young adult segment. The product was recently repackaged and repositioned as Dippity-Do Sport; its focus is now on the male category. With its cobalt-blue bottle and grab-and-go sport grips, the brand was well received in its Canadian rollout and is now rolling out in the U.S. “Slicked through wet hair or applied to dry hair as a grooming aid, Dippity-Do Sport is an easy way to add style and healthy-looking shine for the guy who is always on the go,” said Maureen Gregory, vice president of marketing, The White Rain Company, Danbury, CT. The brand includes Ultimate Hold, Ultimate Hold Unscented, Extreme Hold and Ultimate Hold Spray gels, as well as Sport defining wax. John Frieda, New York, NY, is adopting a playful attitude with Beach Blonde, a four-item collection. The line includes Ocean Waves, a jojoba oil and sea salt-enhanced gel. The product provides a just-got-back-from-the-beach look by both lightening and texturizing the hair into wavy, tousled strands. Gold Rush is a shimmer gel which accents all shades of hair with streaks of gold, according to company executives; rather than peroxide, a standard highlighting ingredient, it contains bits of gold mica. Beach Blonde’s combination of lightening effects with styling hold provides a completed “look” and is on-trend with what consumers seem to be gravitating toward: multibeneficial tools that focus on the total end-look rather than one specific action. LA Looks, the No. 2 hair styling gel marketer in 2000 according to IRI, revamped its brand by adding a proprietary strengthening compound to its gels, mousses and sprays. In addition, the company added specialty gels that give combination benefits. Calling this repositioning a “makeover for the new millennium,” the company said that it offers light and modern new colors, salon-style products, “chunky, funky” new bottles, and a fresh new fragrance. The product line includes Extra Super Hold Spray gel, Mega Hold 4 Color, Mega Volume gel and Frizz Control gel, as well as a 2-in-1 formula mousse line that combines the hold and styling power of a gel with the soft body and flexible volume of a mousse. LA Looks is “not just gels,” according to company executives. Its line of sprays includes Mega Hold, Extra Super Hold and Mega Mega Hold Spritz-on sprays. By matching holding levels, style requirements and product preference (gel, mousse, spray or a combination), the consumer is able to achieve the softest to the most extreme look. Sexy Hair Concepts, Chatsworth, CA, formerly called Formulas by Ecoly, introduced the Big Sexy Hair collection in 1999, with launches throughout the following two years of Straight Sexy Hair, Short Sexy Hair, Curly Sexy Hair and Hot Sexy Highlights. The company has most recently introduced Aero Color sprays, which impart avant-garde colors to the hair that are easily washed out with shampoo and Big Sexy Hair Root Pump Plus, a humidity-resistant volumizing spray mousse for hair lift and health. Pump Plus is said to strengthen hair from the root, prevent frizzies and fly-aways and adjust the hair’s pH balance to give hair a lift while maintaining health and strength. The pump retails for $14.50 and, like other Sexy Hair Concepts products, is available in professional salons. Sexy Hair Concepts also caters to the male consumer with Rumble Boys, a collection of hair products sporting macho names, camouflage colors and a rugged male image. Axel Grease Hold and Shine pomade is a light-hold finishing product that can be applied to either wet or dry hair for style and shine; the product is a metallic army green/brown and comes in a round plastic jar. It retails for $11.50 for 1.8-oz. Bullet Proof Hard Hold hair spray dries quickly to a firm hold that supports strong shapes and styles; it retails for $9.95 for 5.3-oz. Completing the Look Though spray sales have grown only minimally in recent years, major marketers agree that this represents a leveling off of, not a crisis in, hair spray sales. Despite previous warnings of an edging out and eventual replacement of tried and true sprays, it appears that new styling aid forms actually add to the already-abundant hair styling market. Their introduction and increased usage in recent years has opened a new category, but one which works in conjunction with more traditional methods in order to effect a desired end look that no longer requires a salon or stylist to achieve, according to industry experts. Since the introduction of newer sticks, balms, lotions, pomades, gels and waxes, both their collective category and the hair spray segment have achieved gains during the past several years. Though hair spray sales growth has been the slower of the two, the category still has plenty of life in it. In the meantime, hair styling marketers will continue to offer new innovations in order to keep up with a consumer segment that is always looking for something just a little bit different. “Hair is an expression of oneself,” summed up Ms. Schneider of Pantene product development. “Styling aids help achieve that.” | 21,437 | 9,042 | 0.000113 |
warc | 201704 | The North London Waste Authority, which covers seven boroughs, is soon to award a £4.7 billion contract for waste management, and campaigners want Veolia excluded from the tendering process.
According to the Boycott Israeli Goods campaign:
“Veolia, a large French multinational, is helping to build and operate a tramway linking illegal settlements in East Jerusalem with Israel. Not only do the settlements contravene article 49 of the 4th Geneva Convention forbidding an occupier transferring its own civilians into the territory it occupies, but in most cases the establishment of the Israeli settlements involved war crimes too. The tramway tightens Israel’s hold on occupied East Jerusalem, ties the settlements more firmly into Israel and undermines chances of a just peace for the Palestinian people.
“In the occupied Jordan Valley Veolia has been supporting illegal settlements by taking their refuse at its Tovlan landfill site. Veolia has now compounded its offence by actually selling Tovlan to an illegal settlement, whilst maintaining an advisory role.
“Veolia also operates bus services connecting illegal Israeli settlements to Israel. Palestinians were, until recently, forbidden from using the apartheid roads on which the buses travel and Palestinian use of these services is still severely restricted.
“Veolia must be made to halt these activities which enable Israel to maintain and tighten its grip on the occupation. Until then, we encourage a boycott of Veolia – a firm complicit in the ongoing occupation and dispossession of the Palestinian people.”
Further protests will be held on Wednesday 21st at Hackney Town Hall; 23rd November at Camden Town Hall; and again at Camden Town Hall on 6th December, when the final decision will be taken.
Further information can be obtained at the group's Facebook page.
Details Published: 13 November 2012 | 1,917 | 982 | 0.001046 |
warc | 201704 | The radiotherapy department at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, which serves patients from across the Yorkshire and Humber region, has received excellent feedback in the 2012/13 national Radiotherapy Patient Survey
In summer 2012, Professor Sir Mike Richards, National Clinical Director for Cancer, commissioned a survey of radiotherapy patients to understand their experience of radiotherapy services. It was designed to follow up the 2011/12 National Cancer Patient Experience Survey but focus solely upon the experiences of patients who received radiotherapy.
The survey results have been collated nationally from around 24,000 patients who responded and local data for each participating radiotherapy centre has been provided.
For the Leeds facility in the Bexley Wing at St James’s University Hospital, 540 radiotherapy patients responded to the survey and the results have been extremely positive, with the centre scoring higher than the nationally collated statistics in all aspects of treatment and care.
Most encouraging was patients’ positive response to their experience of information provision (general and managing treatment side effects), respect, dignity and follow up care.
Julie Owens, radiotherapy manager for the Leeds Teaching Hospitals, said:
I’m delighted that 97% of our patients fed back that their care during radiotherapy was either very good or excellent . This reflects the professionalism and dedication multi professional team in radiotherapy here at the St James’s Institute of Oncology. | 1,550 | 784 | 0.001299 |
warc | 201704 | The government has unveiled a new measure to crack down on employers who take advantage of migrant workers
Staff at AGL's Loy Yang Power Station have signalled the possibility of industrial action in a move described as 'outdated union ideology'
The Fair Work Ombudsman is prosecuting a company following the dismissal of an employee who took carer’s and compassionate leave. Adverse action claims remain a front-line concern for HR.
The long-awaited review of the Fair Work Act has been released to a barrage of criticism from the business community, who claim the recommended changes fall short of what is needed.
The days of giving a set number of written warnings prior to a termination are over – what’s important is allowing a reasonable time frame for employees to work through their issues.
The workplace ombudsman recently found that James Hardie discriminated against a prospective employee when it refused to employ him following the failure of a physical medical assessment.
It was a textbook set of redundancies – or so the employer thought.
The workplace arbitrator has rejected a former employee’s application for unfair dismissal, finding her resignation was not forced as she had claimed.
An employment tribunal has heard that a flight attendant has been sacked after eating a sandwich given to her by her manager
Talitha Cummins is claiming she was unfairly dismissed from her role while on maternity leave
Male tearfulness is just one of the findings from fascinating research into appraisals by a leading tech firm | 1,571 | 863 | 0.001187 |
warc | 201704 | What are the most important relationship red flags that you need to be aware of?
I'm glad you asked. If you bring awareness to the things that may be bothering you in your relationship, you can either take the necessary steps to rectify them, or you can move on. Either way, awareness is a better strategy than burying your head in the sand.
I'd say that one of the most important relationship red flags is a feeling of disconnection from your partner. This happens when you don't make eye contact anymore, you don't smile at each other any more, you don't hold hands anymore, and you can't remember when last you shared your biggest desires and your greatest fears.
If you answered no to any of the above questions, your relationship may be in trouble. This may be a good time to ask yourself what you can do to reconnect.
Another one of the relationship red flags I see most often in my private practice is needs that go unfulfilled. Here's an example:
A couple, let's call them Bryan and Rhonda, recently came to see me for relationship counselling. From the very first words that Bryan uttered, it was clear that he had loads of pent-up anger towards his wife. He didn't feel that she was fulfilling his sexual needs. Rhonda, on the other hand, complained that Bryan wasn't fulfilling her emotional needs. She wanted him to be more caring and supportive. She craved affection that had nothing to do with making love. She just wanted to him to acknowledge how tired she was, how hard she tried to be a good mother and make a good home for their family, and she felt all he wanted was to get her alone in the bedroom.
Once they realised they both had to give what their partner needed most in order to get their own needs met, their relationship changed dramatically. The hardest part was to let go of their resentment and commit to focus on their partner's needs instead of their own. It's a simple mind shift, but it saved their marriage.
I'm sure it goes without saying that any forms of addiction or abuse are huge relationship red flags. If your partner is addicted to any substance, it will always be their first love. If they're not willing to get help, you have some serious thinking to do. If not addressed, addictions tend to get worse, and the impact on relationships are usually wholly destructive.
It's also important to know that you don't have to tolerate any kind of abuse, whether it's physical or emotional. Abuse is unacceptable in a relationship, so make sure to get help. This is one instance where it really is better to be safe than sorry.
Awaken to Love is one of those rare treasures that you want to return to again and again and again. The author shares generously about her own relationship challenges and her work with clients as a relationship therapist, and provides practical teachings and exercises that can be implemented immediately to transcend pain, heal heartbreak and transform an intimate relationship from a place of disconnection and conflict into a haven of love. This sounds like a big promise, but it is fulfilled in the explanation of how relationship is essentially a spiritual journey.
Relationships aren't meant to be 'perfect'. The author explains how relationships challenge you, shape you and help you grow. The book provides excellent guidance on how to love yourself first, release old patterns and manage intense emotions, as well as how to deal with conflict, practice forgiveness, celebrate passion, and actualise the true meaning of love.
A highlight is the author's 'Love Illuminations' that introduce each chapter. For example,
'As challenging as they are, love relationships are part of the moving, breathing, unfolding cycle of life. Just like the seasons, relationships change. If you expect it to be sunny every day, you will be disappointed. If you resist the wind and the rain, you will be frustrated. The very nature of love is dynamic. Nothing can stay alive and vibrant without dying and being reborn occasionally. The challenge is to embrace change because it also holds the gift. Without change there is no growth. Without growth, love dies.'
This book should be required reading for all couples who want to work towards having happy, soulful and fulfilling relationships. ~ Willow Johnson
From Awaken to Love....
"Love is when the other person's happiness is more important than your own."
~ H. Jackson Brown, Jr. ~
If you enjoyed my page on relationship red flags, I'd appreciate it if you could share it with your friends!
Amazon Best-selling Author First Prize Winner: "most impressive, most marketable title..." ~ Chosen by Hay House Team, including President and CEO Reid Tracy
Mia Rose with Deepak Chopra at the Hay House Writer's Workshop, Melbourne 2013.
"Dr. Mia has created a compelling work that explores loving relationships in a whole new light. She leads the reader to explore the most tender and intimate aspects of loving relationships using her mastery as a professional therapist with a twist - she shares from her heart! The power, warmth and beauty of her personal experience connect with the reader in ways most books on relationships never will!" ~
Mark E. Hundley, Licensed Professional Counselor and Author of Awaken to Good Mourning.
"Mia Rose is a modern day master in the art of LOVE and personal relationships. Her compelling story of her own transformation and the wisdom she shares in Awaken to Love is food for the soul and wisdom for anyone who has ever been in love." ~
Ariaa Jaeger, Spiritual Life Strategist, Philosopher, Author of Ariaaisms ~ Spiritual Food for the Soul, AriaaQuotes and The Book of Ariaa | 5,648 | 2,656 | 0.000379 |
warc | 201704 | Diabetes, can come to you specially if you already have a family history that predisposes you to it. A sedentary life with a poor diet, or being overweight can contribute to acquiring Type II Diabetes.
Answered: Fri, 18 Dec 2009
You found this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer] | 504 | 336 | 0.003012 |
warc | 201704 | Overview of Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic musculoskeletal syndrome characterized by
pain, achiness, tenderness, and stiffness in the muscle tissue, ligaments, and tendons. Fibromyalgia most frequently affects the neck, shoulders, chest, legs, and lower back.
Fibromyalgia pain is generally accompanied by sleep disorders, fatigue, gastrointestinal disorders, and depression. Many fibromyalgia symptoms are similar to symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome, myofascial pain syndrome, and temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ).
Incidence and Prevalence of Fibromyalgia
It is estimated that 6 to 8 million people in the United States suffer from fibromyalgia. About 80 percent of patients are women. While the condition can occur at any age, the highest incidence of fibromyalgia occurs among women 20 to 40 years of age.
There have been reports of fibromyalgia in children. What may be considered "growing pains" might in fact be fibromyalgia, especially if the child also experiences difficulty sleeping. | 1,021 | 569 | 0.001775 |
warc | 201704 | Here's a post from my very first year of blogging that continues to pop up in Google searches with surprising regularity. I suppose the mysteries of the medicinal qualities of 'pot' will never cease to fascinate. Have a look at what I discovered back then, and do let us know if you've got anything more up-to-date to share here.
Treating Diabetes with Cannabis?
I'm grinning. Can you see me? Via a tip from Simon of Power and Control I've learned that cannabis (yep: pot, grass, weed, ganja...) can be used to treat diabetes. But no, really. This is legit! Check out a new research paper from the American Alliance for Medical Cannabis (AAMC).
* stabilizing blood sugars (confirmed via "a large body of anecdotal evidence building among diabetes sufferers")
* anti-inflammatory action that may help quell some of the arterial inflammation common in diabetes
* "neuroprotective" effects that help thwart inflammation of nerves and reduce the pain of neuropathy by activating receptors in the body and brain
* "anti-spasmodic agents" help relieve muscle cramps and the pain of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders
* acts as a "vasodilator" to help keep blood vessels open and improve circulation
* contributes to lower blood pressure over time, which is vital for diabetics
* substituting cannabis butter and oil in foods "benefits cardiac and arterial health in general"
* it can also be used to make topical creams to relieve neuropathic pain and tingling in hands and feet
* finally, cannabis helps still diabetic "restless leg syndrom" (RLS), so the patient can sleep better: "it is recommended that patients use a vaporizer or smoked cannabis to aid in falling asleep."
Now I have no idea how this has been received in the medical community, but that is one heck of a long list of potential health benefits! Where do I sign up for the clinical studies? (wink ;) )
Simon concludes: "If the stuff wasn't illegal it would be considered a medical super-miracle given all the problems it treats." Check them all out at LetFreedomGrow.com. | 2,063 | 1,159 | 0.000876 |
warc | 201704 | Skin flushing, or blushing, describes feelings of warmth and rapid reddening of your neck, upper chest, or facial region. Blotchiness or solid patches of redness are often visible when blushing. Flushed skin is a common physical response to anxiety, stress,... Read more
Skin flushing, or blushing, describes feelings of warmth and rapid reddening of your neck, upper chest, or facial region. Blotchiness or solid patches of redness are often visible when blushing. Flushed skin is a common physical response to anxiety, stress, embarrassment, anger, or another extreme emotional state. Facial flushing is usually more of a social worry than a medical concern.
However, flushing may be linked to an underlying medical issue, such as Cushing’s disease or a niacin overdose. Cushing’s disease is a result of high levels of cortisol in the body. A niacin overdose is due to taking too much over-the-counter niacin medication to lower your cholesterol. These are just two potential causes of flushing — be sure to check with your doctor if you have recurring skin flushing or blushing.
Common Underlying Causes of Facial Flushing
Flushing happens as a result of increased blood flow. Whenever there is more blood flow to an area of skin (such as your cheeks), the blood vessels enlarge to compensate. This enlargement is what gives skin the “flushed” effect.
There are many specific causes of facial flushing, such as a heightened emotional state or eating spicy food. Several medical conditions are also linked to skin flushing. Listed below are some common causes of flushing.
Spicy Foods
Consuming spicy foods, such as peppers or products derived from the Capsicum (pepper) genus of plants, can cause sudden redness in the face or neck. These include cayenne pepper, paprika, chili peppers, and red peppers. Eating these foods may raise your body temperature, increasing blood flow and causing facial redness. Handling these types of foods can also cause skin redness and irritation.
Emotional Triggers
Extreme emotions can trigger redness in the face. For
example, if you become deeply embarrassed or anxious, your face or neck may
appear splotchy. Experiencing feelings of extreme anger, stress, or sadness may
also cause skin flushing. Crying can often cause red blotches on the face and
neck. All of these emotions can also coincide with an acute increase in blood
pressure — still, high blood pressure itself is not
Rosacea
Rosacea is a skin condition that may produce swelling, redness, and acne-like sores. While the cause of rosacea is unknown, inflammation of the blood vessels from stress, spicy foods, and hot temperatures may worsen the condition. Fair-skinned females between the ages of 30 and 50 are the most susceptible.
Other Causes
Other, less common causes of facial blushing include:
alcohol consumption high temperatures or fever reactions to medications, particularly too much niacin (vitamin B-3) Cushing’s disease menopause carcinoid syndrome When to Visit Your Doctor
Though flushing typically isn’t an emergency, it may be linked to serious medical conditions. Talk to your doctor if your flushing becomes a persistent issue or if it occurs with other symptoms, such as diarrhea.
Your doctor will likely want to take an inventory of your symptoms to determine the underlying cause of your flushing. They may ask you about the frequency, duration, location, and context of your symptoms. Also, a medical exam and history will help supply required information for your doctor to make a diagnosis. Be sure to mention other co-occurring symptoms, such as diarrhea, shallow breathing, or hives, so that your doctor may evaluate them.
If your provider finds that your symptoms are emotionally based, they may refer you to a psychotherapist. These professionals can help by teaching you skills to help you cope with extreme emotional events and so prevent flushing.
Addressing and Easing Your Symptoms
There are several home health options available to help you decrease your flushing episodes. If home health options don’t prevent or lessen the frequency of these episodes, see your doctor immediately. It may mean that you have an underlying medical condition causing this sudden redness.
Home Health Options
Home health options include avoiding specific triggers, such as spicy foods, hot beverages, toxins, bright sunlight, and extreme cold or heat. Removing yourself from high-stress situations may also help prevent flushing. Employing relaxation tactics, such as deep breathing exercises, to reduce anxiety may help lower your blood pressure. If your flushing doesn’t subside, make an appointment with your doctor.
What Are the Consequences of Untreated Flushing?
Flushing does not commonly result in serious medical problems. However, in some instances, a serious condition can be the underlying cause of flushing. It’s important to talk to your doctor about all of your symptoms.
Also, pinpointing your triggers can help prevent bouts of flushing. If your trigger is emotional, flushing can become more prevalent if you don’t develop adequate coping skills to help manage your emotions.
How to Prevent Flushing
There is no definitive method for preventing flushing. However, there are some things you can do to reduce the risk of these episodes. You can:
limit your alcohol consumption (people whose enzyme to help break down alcohol is inactive are more prone to redness and warmth on the skin after drinking an alcoholic beverage) limit your handling and eating of spicy foods, especially those derived from the Capsicum genus try to avoid extreme temperatures and excessive bright sunlight limit your niacin intake to the daily recommended allowance of 14 to 18 milligrams for adults, unless your doctor tells you differently (consuming more than 50 milligrams of niacin can cause flushing) employ coping skills to regulate extreme emotions, such as anxiety
Helpful coping skills include relaxation techniques and cognitive behavioral skills. Also, hypnosis may be effective in treating some emotional issues that produce flushing.
Outlook
In many cases, occasional flushing is more of a hassle than it is a medical concern. Taking preventive steps to address your flushing can be very helpful in reducing your symptoms. However, it’s important to seek immediate medical care for unusual symptoms of flushing. You should also see your doctor for recurring episodes. | 6,497 | 2,718 | 0.000374 |
warc | 201704 | June 9, 1999 | Executive Memorandum on Russia
It is premature to hail the Kosovo peace agreement as an unabashed "triumph" for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Yugoslav President Slobodan Milosevic has broken every Balkan peace agreement he ever has initialed. Assuming the 15-member United Nations Security Council approves the resolution authorizing the deployment of a peacekeeping force in Kosovo, NATO will commit 50,000 troops, to include 7,000 Americans, to a costly, open-ended peacekeeping mission.
As the experience in Northern Ireland, the Middle East, and Bosnia suggests, achieving a fragile truce is one thing but securing a durable, self-sustaining peace is quite another. At this point, many details regarding the anticipated Kosovo peace agreement remain unclear. What is clear, however, is that NATO's air campaign, Operation Allied Force, yielded a Pyrrhic victory for the people of Kosovo. NATO made a tragic miscalculation that President Milosevic would fold after only three days of bombing. Instead of stopping him, however, NATO's incremental bombardment provided President Milosevic with a pretext to accelerate and intensify his ethnic cleansing campaign. The Kosovar Albanians paid a heavy price in blood for NATO's error. Repairing Kosovo's war-torn infrastructure will cost the West billions of dollars; even with this effort, however, thousands of Kosovar refugees may never return.
Milosevic Wins Concessions
The West yet again has made Slobodan Milosevic a partner
to a shaky Balkan peace agreement. Recently indicted by the
International Criminal Tribunal, President Milosevic has a track
record of violating such agreements. Although weakened militarily
by NATO's air campaign, he remains capable of additional mischief
in the region. Indeed, President Milosevic has established a
pattern of giving ground on one front only to instigate trouble
elsewhere. Among other possibilities, he could destabilize the
pro-Western government in the Republic of Montenegro or threaten
the Hungarian minority in the Serb
In two important respects, President Milosevic has secured an even better deal than the one he refused at the Rambouillet peace talks in February 1999. First, the agreement would provide him with a stronger guarantee of Yugoslavia's "sovereignty and territorial integrity" regarding Kosovo. Absent in this agreement is any reference to a future referendum to settle Kosovo's political status, a key provision in the Rambouillet proposal. Under the present agreement, NATO would become, in effect, the long-term guarantor of Yugoslavia's sovereignty over Kosovo.
Second, the anticipated peacekeeping force in Kosovo ("Joint Guardian") would operate under the auspices of the U.N. and include both NATO and non-NATO countries. The Rambouillet proposal called for an all-NATO force, operating without the mandate of the U.N. Under the new agreement, Russia and China, two countries that supported Yugoslavia diplomatically during the conflict, would have to approve the Security Council resolution specifying the civil and military responsibilities of the peacekeeping force. Their involvement could complicate the task of establishing streamlined command-and-control relationships necessary for effective peacekeeping.
Open-Ended Peacekeeping
Deployment
NATO nevertheless has committed itself to another
open-ended peacekeeping deployment in the Balkans. Plans for
Operation Joint Guardian call for 50,000 troops, to include 7,000
Americans. Taking into account the need to rotate troops
periodically, this commitment would tie up an entire U.S. Army
division for perhaps an entire generation. It would place
additional stress on the U.S. military, which was stretched thin
even before Operation Allied Force began in March.
Once deployed, the Kosovo peacekeeping force would face significant risks. The Yugoslav forces have seeded the province with thousands of mines, which will complicate NATO's effort to secure the return of the 1 million refugees displaced by President Milosevic's ethnic cleansing campaign. NATO would find it difficult to convince the refugees that it was safe to return home. The experience in Bosnia, to which the majority of refugees steadfastly refused to return, is not encouraging. Moreover, in the aftermath of the sustained bombing campaign, the Serb minority in Kosovo is unlikely to welcome U.S., British, French, German, and Italian troops as neutral peacekeepers. Terrorist reprisals should be expected.
The peace agreement also calls for NATO-led forces to execute one of President Milosevic's long-standing aims: the demilitarization of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA). This provision would represent a grave challenge for NATO; guerrilla armies are difficult to disarm even under the best of circumstances. In Northern Ireland, the disarmament issue has brought the implementation of the 1998 Good Friday Agreement to a virtual standstill. After months of fierce fighting with Yugoslav forces, the KLA is understandably reluctant to relinquish its weapons under a peace agreement that affirms Yugoslavia's sovereignty over Kosovo. A concerted attempt by the NATO-led peacekeeping force to disarm the KLA forcibly would risk a Somalia-like disaster, in which the United States incurred the hostility of the very people it had hoped to assist.
More generally, the peacekeeping deployment would hasten NATO's transformation from a defensive military alliance to a Balkan constabulary force, a process that was already well under way with NATO's open-ended commitment in Bosnia. The Kosovo peacekeeping mission would bring the overall number of NATO troops in the Balkans to 81,000, including 13,000 Americans.
Conclusion
Americans should be thankful that NATO did not bungle into
a costly ground war in Kosovo and that the bombing campaign did not
fracture the alliance. That said, both the short- and long-term
costs of NATO's "triumph" are sobering. Operation Allied Force
clearly has strained U.S. relations with Russia and China, for
example. And thousands of Kosovar Albanians are dead or displaced
because NATO misjudged of President Milosevic's resolve.
Even if NATO succeeded in securing a ceasefire and the withdrawal of all Yugoslav forces from Kosovo, it still would be far from winning a durable, self-sustaining peace. Although the final costs of intervening in Kosovo cannot be tallied at this point, this much is clear: Implementation of the peace agreement, whatever its final form, will be time-consuming, expensive, and perilous to NATO and U.S. troops.
James H. Anderson, Ph.D. is
Defense Policy Analyst in The Kathryn and Shelby Cullom Davis
International Studies at The Heritage Foundation. | 6,753 | 3,114 | 0.000324 |
warc | 201704 | Metabolic cardiologist Dr Stephen T. Sinatra considers coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), L carnitine, D ribose and magnesium the ‘awesome foursome’ of cardiovascular health.
Dr Sinatra explains that while 1 + 1 will always equal 2 in mathematics, in metabolic cardiology and nutritional medicine, when you are talking about substances that are synergistic with each other such as the ‘awesome foursome’, 1 + 1 might equal 5 or even 10. In other words, the benefits of taking more than one of these substances at a time may far outweigh the benefits seen from taking any of them alone.
The heart and the brain are especially rich in mitochondria. This makes them especially vulnerable to mitochondrial damage and the resulting decrease in energy output. Both the brain and the heart (with its extraordinary non-stop work) need an enormous amount of energy.
Dr Sinatra explains that,
It’s all about ATP (adenosine triphosphate). Hearts, skeletal muscles and every other tissue in our bodies have an absolute need for ATP as their primary energy currency. Cells and tissues will cease to function if they are not provided with a constant and stable supply of energy. Both the total pool of energy substrates (ATP) in the cell and the cell’s ability to recycle these compounds are fundamental to healthy energy metabolism and cell function.
When hearts are stressed by disease, energy substrates, called purines, wash out of the cell and the total pool of cellular energy becomes severely depleted. Disease also disrupts the heart’s ability to recycle its remaining energy through the oxidative phosphorylation mechanisms. The combination of energy pool depletion and metabolic dysfunction contributes to the severity of the disease and impacts the physiological health of the heart. The same is true for skeletal muscles that are stressed through disease or high-intensity exercise.
CoQ10 and L carnitine are major players in the energy recycling metabolic pathways. D ribose is the only compound used by the body to replenish depleted energy stores and rebuild energy pools. Magnesium is a vital mineral used by the enzymes that make energy synthesis and recycling possible.
Or as Dr Sinatra explains; D ribose fills the tank, CoQ10 and L carnitine helps convert this fuel to energy (helps the engine run properly) and magnesium is the glue that holds it all together.
Coenzyme Q10
CoQ10 is an enzyme that occurs naturally in the mitochondria of every cell in your body. It plays a key part in metabolizing energy from food. CoQ10 was first isolated in 1957. Since then, scientists have studied its effects on a wide variety of illnesses and conditions.
CoQ10 plays an important role in stabilising cell membranes.
CoQ10 is essential in directly supporting ATP recycling in the mitochondria of the cells. This is especially important for tissues that use a lot of energy, such as the heart and the brain.
Dr Sinatra explains that CoQ10 helps any type of cardiomyopathy, congestive or even hypertropic. It impacts on both systolic and diastolic dysfunction, improving quality of life.
(This is an important distinction for M.E. patients as Dr Cheney recently explained the type of cardiac insufficiency that lies at the heart of M.E. is best described as diastolic heart failure or (‘compensated’) diastolic cardiomyopathy. The right ventricle circulates blood to the lungs, while the left ventricle circulates blood to the rest of the body. The ventricles empty when the heart contracts to pump out blood (the systole), and fill when the heart relaxes (the diastole). Diastolic dysfunction means that the heart does not have enough energy to relax between contractions and so the ventricles fill with blood in a dysfunctional way and an inadequate amount of blood is pumped by the heart with each contraction. (Dr Sinatra explains that a great deal more energy is needed for the heart muscles to relax, than for them to contract. It requires immense cellular energy.) This diastolic dysfunction is best measured using an impedance cardiograph machine. Note that Dr Cheney is not an M.E. expert as such. See the Dr Paul Cheney page on HFME for more information.)
Without CoQ10 the electron transport chain would completely break down. This loss would be catastrophic. There has to be an EXCESS of CoQ10 in the mitochondria to be maximally effective.
CoQ10 is an antioxidant and reduces cancer risk.
ATP supports such as CoQ10 support immunity, as the immune system has high ATP needs.
CoQ10 has neuroprotective effects against mitochondrial toxins.
CoQ10 plays an important role in reducing platelet size, distribution, stickiness and limiting platelet aggregation and activation. CoQ10 helps prevent blood clot formation.
Diseased gums may be a sign of low CoQ10 levels.
Spontaneous abortion is linked with low CoQ10 levels.
Research indicates that if levels of CoQ10 decline by 25% our organs may become deficient and impaired. If levels decline by 75% serious tissue damage and even death may occur.
CoQ10 decreases cardiac mortality.
Dr Sinatra found that while 85% of his cardiac patients responded to CoQ10 alone, 15% needed to take CoQ10 and L carnitine before significant benefits were seen (even where blood levels of CoQ10 were shown to be high).
Although CoQ10 comes in two forms, ubiquinone and ubiquinol, for many years ubiquinone was the only CoQ10 supplement available. Advances in CoQ10 manufacturing processes in Japan have recently led to ubiquinol supplements becoming widely available. According to Dr Sinatra, 15 mg of the (reduced) ubiquinol form of CoQ10, is equal to 50 mg of the ubiquinone form of CoQ10. So ubiquinol raises blood levels of CoQ10 just over three times as well as standard ubiquinone.
(To create cellular energy, the body has to convert ubiquinone into ubiquinol. Aging and other factors however slow down or stop this conversion from happening, leading to low CoQ10 levels. If you are one of these that has a problem converting ubiquinone, then ubiquinol will have an even stronger effect, in comparison with ubiquinone. The ability to convert ubiquinones into its usable form decreases with age. Some studies show ubiquinol as being up to 8 times as bioavailable as ubiquinone. The contradictions in some CoQ10 clinical research are mostly due to the reduced bioavailability of some types of CoQ10. Water miscible forms are best absorbed, while powder forms are least well absorbed. The other problem is that many studies use only very low doses of ubiquinone, such as 200 mg.)
Ubiquinol is the preferred form of CoQ10 and is better value than ubiquinone, per absorbed milligram. Ubiquinone may cause some side effects at high doses (eg. 1200 mg), however, as ubiquinol supplementation can give these same high blood levels at much lower doses, the potential for side effects is also much reduced. Ubiquinol has been shown to peak blood levels 6 hours after ingestion.
L carnitine
The name carnitine is derived form the latin ‘camus’ for flesh as carnitine was first isolated form meat sources. Nutritionist Robert Crayhon, author of The Carnitine Miracle, explains that strictly speaking, carnitine is not an amino acid and that carnitine does not in fact contain the amino group (NH2). He explains that carnitine is a coenzyme, a water-soluble vitamin-like compound. And that carnitine is similar to choline, one of the B vitamins-and, like various B vitamins, carnitine helps us turn food into energy. More specifically, it is essential for the burning of long-chain fatty acids.
The heart depends on adequate concentrations of carnitine for normal heart function.
The primary role of carnitine is to help transport fatty acids into the energy producing units in the cells - the mitochondria, where they can be converted to energy. This is a major source of energy for the muscles, including those of the heart. Carnitine increases the use of fat as an energy source.
Carnitine is useful in clearing the bloodstream of ammonia and aids in creating glycogen, used to store essential glucose. Carnitine transports waste products out of the mitochondria, thus ensuring that toxic metabolic waste products do not accumulate. Carnitine reduces the accumulation of lactic acid, which is responsible for the burn felt inside the muscles with exercise.
Carnitine can help to prevent muscle atrophy.
Carnitine protects the heart from damage when a heart attack or a spasm cuts off the oxygen supply. Recent research has shown that carnitine can aid in recovery after a heart attack. Michael Murray N.D., author of ‘The Pill Book: Guide to Natural Medicines’ writes, ‘Subjects taking carnitine showed significant improvements in heart rate, blood pressure, angina attacks, rhythm disturbances, and clinical signs of impaired heart function compared to the subjects taking placebo.’
Low thyroid function may indicate a need for carnitine to help overcome low energy levels and the tendency to gain weight.
Carnitine can improve insulin sensitivity in those with type 2 diabetes.
Kidney dialysis rinses away amino acids, causing weak, tired condition, which is threatened by high triglycerides. Carnitine supplements may be advisable in such situations.
At doses of 1 – 3 g carnitine reduces blood triglycerides. (As the LEF website explains, ‘Carnitine combines with enzymes found in the mitochondrial membrane to transport fatty acids into the interior of the mitochondria, where they are oxidized to provide fuel for the generation of energy. In the absence of carnitine, fatty acids are not oxidized, but, instead, are transformed into dangerous triglycerides.’)
Carnitine is an antioxidant and enhances the effectiveness of antioxidant vitamins C and E. Carnitine is synergistic with pantethine (vitamin B5).
Carnitine is manufactured by the body if sufficient amounts of iron, vitamin B1, vitamin C, niacin, vitamin B6, lysine, and methionine are available. Food sources of carntine include meat, poultry, fish, and dairy products are the richest sources of L-carnitine. Grains, fruits, and vegetables contain little or no carnitine. Robert Crayhon points out that due to high consumption of red meat, the Stone Age hunter probably got at least 500 mg of carnitine a day, and possibly as much as 2 grams. Today the average carnitine intake is estimated at a mere 30 to 50 mg a day. Strict vegetarians consume practically no carnitine.
L carnitine is generally not well absorbed, and is best absorbed on an empty stomach. There are several different forms of carnitine;
L carnitine fumarate is absorbed at a slightly higher rate than pure L carnitine and L carnitine tartrate. It is stable enough to be available in capsule form. L carnitine fumarate has a double effect as the fumarate is a free radical scavenger and also plays a part in the krebs energy cycle.
Pure L carnitine draws moisture and so is not suitable for use in capsules and tablets. It is commonly used in liquid carnitine products and pure carnitine powders. It has a very mild taste when mixed with water and is a good choice of carnitine.
For angina and other cardiovascular applications, a new form of carnitine known as L-propionylcarnitine appears to be the most effective form of carnitine, although it may also be the most expensive and difficult to source. (Look for products labelled Glycocarn.)
L carnitine tartrate is an adequate form of L carnitine. When mixed with water it has an unpleasant tart taste.
L carnitine is thought to be one of the safest nutritional supplements on earth, according to Dr Sinatra.
A special warning about buying low quality carnitine supplements: If you are using a Chinese made product, you could be putting your health in danger. Products containing the D isomer can cause cells to not function properly and possibly die. If you cannot find out the D isomer content of a product, then do not buy that brand of carnitine. D-carnitine supplements should be avoided. The D isomer, which is not biologically active, can compete with the L isomer. To ensure a safe product, buy only Sigma Tau or Lonza carnitine products.
Information on acetyl L carnitine: Nutritionist Robert Crayhon, author of The Carnitine Miracle, explains that for neurological disorders it appears that acetyl L carnitine (ALC) is the best form of carnitine. ALC improves cognitive function and increases mitochondrial energy output (especially when combined with lipoic acid). Besides enhancing fatty acid transport and utilization, ALC also increases the density of neurotransmitter receptors, the levels of neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine and dopamine. It also reduces the accumulation of lipofuscin (a metabolic waste product related to lipid peroxidation, seen at particularly high levels in dementia), counteracts glycation and promotes melatonin production. Acetyl-l-carnitine also restores cortisol receptors, acts as an antioxidant and boosts the levels of glutathione and CoQ10.
Supplementation with ALC has been shown to reduce degenerative processes in the nervous system, and improve memory and learning ability. According to Nutritionist Robert Crayhon, ‘acetyl-l-carnitine qualifies as the superstar of neuroprotection.’
One side effect of acetyl L carnitine is vivid dreams, possibly due to increases melatonin production. Too much ALC can also cause neurological overstimulation for those with neurological diseases involving seizure states such as M.E. and so a small dose of just 500 mg is recommended. ALC is not recommended where seizure problems are severe.
ALC is one of the most important supplements to be taken after a stroke, to help speed recovery. For stroke patients, the recommended dosage is usually 1500 mg.
D ribose
D ribose (or ribose) is a simple 5-carbon sugar found in all living cells. Dr Sinatra explains that,
Until 1944, D-ribose was thought to be primarily a structural component of DNA and RNA with little physiological significance. But a series of studies, culminating in 1957, revealed that this sugar molecule played an intermediate role in an important metabolic reaction called the pentose phosphate pathway. This reaction is central to energy synthesis, the production of genetic material, and for providing substances used by certain tissues to make fatty acids and hormones.
Several notable papers were published in 2003. One study showed that D-ribose improved diastolic functional performance of the heart, increased exercise tolerance, and significantly improved the quality of life of patients.
Research continues here and abroad. Yet, despite the powerful scientific evidence, very few US physicians have even heard of D-ribose outside of their first-year medical school biochemistry class, and fewer still recommend it to patients. We lucky ones who are familiar with it have the wonderful gratification of seeing it help our patients on a regular basis.
Ribose is a very well studied product. More than 100 papers have been completed or published on its cardiovascular health benefits. In short:
Ribose plays a role in the manufacture of glucose, which is used in the body in metabolic processes, including energy production and, cyclically, production of ribose. Ribose also converts to pyruvate, which can combine with oxygen in the metabolic pathways to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP) - the energy source for all muscles. Ribose is the prime ingredient in the production of ATP.
Ribose is found in heart and muscle cells, but the body cannot manufacture it quickly enough to meet the demands of metabolic stress experienced during strenuous exercise or diminished blood flow or where there is metabolic insufficiency.
Ribose improves the relaxation of the heart that allows it to fill properly with blood. Thus ribose improves diastolic heart function. (As explained previously, this has special relevance and importance for M.E.)
Ribose is vital in the formation of nucleotides, compounds needed by the heart and skeletal muscles, as well as other body cells. Nucleotides are required for the body to produce energy for muscle cells; manufacture protein, glycogen and nucleic acids (RNA and DNA); form the cyclic nucleotides responsible for controlling calcium and other electrolytes; and relax the heart and muscle cells
Dr Sinatra goes on to write,
Supplemental D-ribose absorbs easily and quickly through the gut and into the bloodstream. About 97% gets through. Studies have shown that any amount of D-ribose you give to energy-starved cells gives them an energy boost. At the University of Missouri, researcher Ronald Terjung has shown that even very small doses (the equivalent of about 500 mg) of D-ribose increase energy salvage in muscles by more than 100%. Larger doses increase the production of energy compounds by 340-430%, depending on the type of muscle tested, and improve the salvage of energy compounds by up to 650%. Most amazing is that when muscles are supplemented with D-ribose, they continue to add to their energy stores even while they actively work! Until this study was reported, it was thought that muscle energy stores were only refilled in muscles at rest.
An adequate dose of D-ribose usually results in symptom improvement very quickly—sometimes within a few days. If the initial response is poor, the dose should be increased until the patient feels relief. Logically, the sickest patients stand to gain the most.
The half-life of ribose is only 30 minutes.
Magnesium
See the main Minerals paper for information on all aspects of magnesium.
Restrictions and cautions on the use of CoQ10, L carnitine and D ribose
Certain drugs, such as those that are used to lower cholesterol or blood sugar levels, may reduce the effects of CoQ10. The LEF explains that,
A large number of drugs deplete Coenzyme Q10. These include such widely used tricyclic antidepressants as Elavil (amitriptyline) and Tofranil (imipramine), the anti-psychotic drug Haloperidol, cholesterol-lowering statin drugs such as Lovastatin and Pravastatin, beta-blockers, anti-diabetic sulfonylurea drugs such as Glucotrol (glipizide) and Micronase (glyburide), and the anti-hypertension drug Clonidine. These common drugs, as well as several others, interfere with the body's synthesis of CoQ10 and may cause a deficiency of this crucial compound, so important for energy production and protection against free radicals. This drug-induced depletion can be particularly serious in the elderly, who already suffer from aging-related CoQ10 deficiency.
It is particularly ironic that drugs prescribed to heart patients result in lower levels of CoQ10, since the heart has an enormous need for CoQ10 for its energy production. In fact, a CoQ10 deficiency first manifests itself in cardiovascular symptoms. The authors warn, "The results of some studies suggest that congestive heart failure is primarily a coenzyme Q10 deficiency disease." The same may be true of cardiomyopathy, heart muscle impairment which may lead to heart failure. The authors also list other symptoms of CoQ10 deficiency, including angina, cardiac arrhythmias, mitral valve prolapse, high blood pressure (which may lead to stroke), gum disease, low energy and a weak immune system (which may result in greater susceptibility to cancer). Recently it has also been discovered that CoQ10 is very important for brain health, and may help prevent Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. The importance of CoQ10 can hardly be overemphasized.
To reiterate; statin drugs, tricyclic antidepressants and beta blockers deplete CoQ10 and if CoQ10 is not given at the same time as these drugs, cardiomyopaghy or CHF may result. Overactive thyroid or a pulsating heart requires additional CoQ10. CoQ10 may alter the body’s response to warfarin and insulin.
CoQ10 shows very few significant side effects, though some patients report insomnia and restlessness when treated with high doses of CoQ10 supplements. If this occurs, the dose should be lowered until the symptoms resolve. No serious side effects have been reported from the use of coenzyme Q10. Some patients using CoQ10 have experienced Other possible side effects include rashes, nausea, upper abdominal pain, dizziness, visual sensitivity to light, irritability, headache, heartburn, and fatigue. Generally CoQ10 is well tolerated in M.E. However, some M.E. patients say they can only tolerate low doses of CoQ10, while others find they need very high doses to see the full benefits of CoQ10.
The effects of CoQ10 on pregnant and nursing women and very young children have not been studied and so this supplement is not recommended for these patient groups.
Patients being treated with AZT, Doxorubicin, Isotretinoin or Valproic acid should speak to a physician before taking any L carnitine supplements. Anticonvulsant drugs may lower the effectiveness of carnitine supplements. Renal patients may need a lower dose of carnitine. Carnitine supplementation will often mean that the dosages of various heart drugs will need to be lowered; this process should always involve the doctor that prescribed the drugs and be very gradual – do not stop taking any medication suddenly.
Carnitine is a very well tolerated and safe supplement. It does not appear that L carnitine causes significant side effects, although high doses taken on an empty stomach may cause diarrhea. Other possible but rare side effects include body odor, rash, and increased appetite. This supplement is generally very well tolerated in M.E.
Dr Sinatra explains that,
The toxicology and safety of D-ribose have been exhaustively studied. The supplement is 100% safe when taken as directed. There are no known adverse drug or nutritional interactions associated with D-ribose use. Thousands of patients have taken D-ribose at dosages up to 60 grams per day with minimal side effects. However, even though there are no known contraindications of D-ribose therapy, we recommend that pregnant women, nursing mothers, and very young children refrain from taking D-ribose simply because there is not enough research on its use in these populations. D-ribose can actually lower blood glucose levels; therefore, insulin-dependent diabetics should check with their physicians before starting on the supplement.
The only problems usually mentioned with regard to D ribose (in books are articles) are infrequent minor gastrointestinal side-effects or feelings of faintness where a large dose is taken on an empty stomach. However, of all the supplements listed here D ribose by far the one most likely to cause problems or to not be tolerated even at lower doses in M.E. (Unfortunately many D ribose experts seem to not have encountered many or any M.E. patients and are unaware of this problem.)
Many M.E. patients become very ill when trialling D ribose and so it is very important to start at doses much lower than the 5 g usually recommended as a starting dose. D ribose can cause far more than gastrointestinal upset in M.E., it can cause severe relapse and loss of quality of life. (A short improvement in function maybe also followed by a ‘crash.’) Dr Cheney has commented that in a small number of patients ribose seems to be metabolised as a sugar rather than a component of ATP production, or metabolised anaerobically which results in lactic acid build up in the body – rather than the ribose being used primarily to make more ATP, which is the idea behind ribose supplementation.
Thankfully, the negative affects from D ribose do pass quickly, usually within a few days. D ribose should be taken with meals (or at least mixed into juice, milk, or fruit) to offset the blood-glucose-lowering effect.
D ribose should be discontinued if no benefits are seen or only very small benefits are seen as there is a possibility that the sugar content could feed ‘bad’ bacteria and contribute to Candidasis or gas and bloating. Dr Cheney made a complete turnaround in 2009 on ribose, commenting that it is ‘toxic’ to patients and makes problems worse. While Dr Cheney should by no means be assumed to always be absolutely correct in his every comment (he does NOT study a 100% M.E. patient group after all and is not what one might call politically aware), this is a another reason to cease ribose supplementation unless it is very clearly helping significantly. Where D ribose is not helpful, patients may want to instead try sublingual NADH or ATP lozenges.
There are still enormous benefits to be had from the combination of CoQ10, L carnitine and magnesium, with or without additional D ribose supplementation.
(For me, ribose made me feel awful and it felt very different in effect to how these other three work. It felt like just taking a ton of caffeine rather than anything actually helping my cells or heart work better. It made me ill. So I am not at all a ribose fan but have included this information here for anyone that is interested in it.)
CoQ10, L carnitine and D ribose tests
Testing the blood levels of CoQ10 may be very helpful, both in determining the correct dose of CoQ10 needed and to determine, where there is a lack of response to CoQ10, if this may be caused due to a lack of absorption (or perhaps a product not containing the amount of CoQ10 stated on the label, and so on). This test is widely available.
Dr Sinatra explains that researchers agree that CoQ10 blood levels of 2.5 ng/ml and preferably 3.5 ng/ml are required to have an impact on severely diseased hearts. Dr Sinatra recommends Quest labs for CoQ10 tests. The LEF also offers a CoQ10 blood test, for US patients.
Testing of carnitine levels is not usually necessary before carnitine supplementation according to Dr Sinatra. (For information on the tests necessary to diagnose carnitine deficiency see the eMedicine/Web MD website)
Testing D ribose levels is useless as ribose has such a short half life in the body.
Dosage recommendations
CoQ10/ubiquinol: Dr Sinatra recommends the following daily CoQ10 dosages (note that the ubiquinol figures have been rounded to the nearest 25 mg):
CoQ10 dosages table
Ubiquinol dosage
Ubiquinone dosage
Recommended
25 - 50 mg
90 – 150 mg
As a cardiac disease preventative.
75 - 100 mg
240 – 360 mg
For cardiac arrhythmia, angina and those taking statin drugs.
100 - 175 mg
360 – 600 mg
For dilated cardiomyopathy and congestive heart failure.
175 – 350 mg
600 – 1200 mg
To improve quality of life in Parkinson’s disease. Where there is greatly reduced immunity, such as in cancer.
Although there is no specific dosage given for M.E. (nor for many other diseases) by Dr Sinatra this is not necessarily a significant problem. Dosage will depend on disease severity which can vary considerably in M.E. etc. and there are also significant differences in the dose needed from person to person and so dosage recommendation can only ever be general guidelines, as Dr Sinatra explains.
In addition, we do know that M.E. has some similarities to Parkinson’s and can be a similarly disabling neurological disease and that (anecdotally) those with moderate – severe M.E. will most often need doses the same as those listed for Parkinson’s disease, in order to experience an improvement in quality of life. (1200 mg of ubiquinone daily is often quoted as a standard dosage for Parkinson’s patients.)
The dosage of CoQ10 in M.E. can be guided by blood levels of CoQ10 or by raising the dose until the patient experiences significant improvement, or both. The maintenance dose of CoQ10 should then be adjusted downwards as much as possible, without losing the benefits. For patients that are severely affected the maintenance dose may need to stay the same as the initial dose, in order to prevent relapse.
CoQ10 should be taken in 2 – 3 divided doses (with food). Do not take medium - large doses all at once.
Dr Sinatra recommends that patients be pre-treated with CoQ10 prior to any type of cardiac surgery. He also comments that very severely ill patients may need three times as much CoQ10 as others. Benefits from CoQ10 will often be seen in 1 – 4 weeks but it may take several months for the full effect to become apparent.
L carnitine: For those with serious cardiac issues, as in M.E., pure L carnitine should be trialled at 250 – 750 mg taken 4 times daily, according to Dr Sinatra. (For a total intake of 1 to 3 grams daily).
If improvement is not seen at 3 g, the dose may need to be raised to 4 g or in severe cases, 5 or 6 g. The maintenance dose may be able to be significantly lower than the initial or pharmacologic dose, although in severe cases the initial dose will need to be maintained long-term to prevent relapse. How you feel should be your guide to determining your best L carnitine dosage long-term.
Do not take doses larger than 1 – 1.5 g at a time as absorption is greatly reduced with large doses. L carnitine is best taken in 3 – 4 divided doses.
D ribose: The usual recommendation for D ribose where there are serious cardiac issues is to take 5 g (roughly 1 heaped teaspoon), two or three times daily, according to Dr Sinatra, for a total intake of 10 to 15 grams daily.
In very severe cases doses of 15 – 30 g may be recommended.
A very cautious starting dose in M.E. may be 550 mg (1/8th of a teaspoon) taken daily, in divided doses, for the first week and raised 550 mg a week or a fortnight until a dose of 5 g (or more) is safely reached or the treatment must be stopped due to its causing relapse. Note that having smaller doses less often may increase your tolerance of D ribose and that buying powders rather than tablets may make taking (and measuring) smaller doses easier to manage.
Make sure to take D ribose with food to minimise its effect on blood sugar levels. D ribose is best taken in 2 – 3 or more divided doses. Ribose gives improvements in a few days.
Magnesium: See the Minerals paper for information on all aspects of magnesium.
All four of these supplements are very safe to take long-term.
Antioxidants and mitochondrial and other supports
Nutritionist Robert Crayhon explains that mitochondrial supports ‘should be combined with antioxidants to compensate for the increased production of free radicals that is a by-product of greater energy output. Older people especially need to take extra antioxidants to compensate for this.’ Lipoic acid is one of the most important antioxidants, along with vitamin E and vitamin C. CoQ10 is also an antioxidant.
Dr Sinatra recommends that 50 -100 mg of lipoic acid (and also a daily multivitamin, extra vitamin C and fish oil) always be taken along with the ‘awesome foursome.’ He states that to help neutralise free radicals, nurture your mitochondria and delay aging, life-long supplementation with CoQ10, L carnitine, lipoic acid and vitamins C and E is essential.
Another important supplement for vascular health is the amino acid L arginine. The dosage is usually 2 to 5 grams daily, taken in divided doses. Some doctors prefer to recommend sustained released arginine.
The Sinatra Solution by metabolic cardiologist Dr Stephen T. Sinatra
L carnitine and the heart by metabolic cardiologist Dr Stephen T. Sinatra
Enhancing Cardiac Energy with Ribose by Stephen T. Sinatra, MD, and James C. Roberts, MD
Additional references
Coenzyme Q10 Effective for Migraine Prevention from New Hope Natural Media
D-Ribose: Energize Your Heart, Save Your Life by Julius G. Goepp, MD
L-Carnitine Aids Circulation in Legs - Nutrition Science News
L-Carnitine May Prevent And Treat Hyperthyroidism - InteliHealth
Loster H, et al. Prolonged oral L-carnitine substitution increases bicycle ergometer performance in patients with severe, ischemically induced cardiac insufficiency. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther 1999;13(6):537-46.
Natural Approaches In the Treatment of Congestive Heart Failure by Dr Sergey A. Dzugan on LEF
“Both carnitine and CoQ10 promote energy to cardiac muscle cells. It is important to note that this action is physiological and is not similar to the pharmacological effects of drugs that affect the heart rate and contractibility of the heart.” Dr Sinatra in ‘The Sinatra Solution’
Note that the aim of this site is to provide a starting point for health and healing research for ill people; especially very overwhelmed and disabled ill people. This site provides recommendations, summaries and reviews of books but is not meant to be a replacement for actually reading some of these wonderful health books if the reader is at all well enough to do so. (Plus getting individualised advice from a doctor that is also an orthomolecular medicine expert if possible). There is no substitute for reading as many of these books as you can. The HHH site can only really hint at their full brilliance. The amount of insight, scientific references, logic, intelligence, compassion and experience in the recommended books will most likely amaze you. HHH aims to encourage people to do their own reading and learning, and to always make up their own minds. All content copyright Jodi Bassett 2006 - 2014. | 33,284 | 13,190 | 0.000077 |
warc | 201704 | Eunice Home Security Issues Get the Best Home Security System in Eunice, LA
In today's uncertain times, home security is just not something to take lightly. This past year alone, over 2 million burglaries took place nationwide. Approximately 70% of these breaches were
home burglaries. Which means that every 13 seconds, a home is burglarized.
Physical dangers aside, a home intrusion could also have tremendous and possibly long-lasting psychological after-effects. The need for home security is imperative. A suitable and efficient Eunice home security system lets you feel confident and safe and, with advances in technology, the method is easy and affordable.
Hidden Benefits of Having a Eunice Home Security System
A Eunice home security system provides additional benefits beyond protection against break-ins. A home security system can potentially lower your Eunice home insurance rates, as well as increase the response time of police officers and fire fighters should you need their assistance.
Eunice Home Security Options
Today consumers in LA have many security choices with which to fortify their Eunice home. It can feel like a wearisome and challenging task, however, it doesn't have to be.
What's important to make note of when deciding on a protection plan is that you choose the right system for
you and your family. Prevention and preparation are the pillars of home safety basics. The first step to protecting your property and family is to identify your threats.
As soon as these threats are actually revealed you may then effectively
discern your home security product needs. Burglar alarm systems, sirens, motion detectors and stickers can be used separately or in conjunction so as to give you the best safety coverage for your needs. Home security is very much influenced by risk assessment; before you can get a solution, you should identify exactly what problems need solving.
However, it is also important to understand that home security isn't only about your home; you also needs to
evaluate the safety of your surrounding community. Certain Eunice neighborhoods may just be a greater safety risk than others, and this will vary depending on the nature of the threat.
The protection of personal items which might be located beyond your Eunice home should also be considered and accounted for. Driveway alarms can help in reducing the risk of auto theft and motion detectors can be helpful in keeping outside pets and other outdoor valuables safe. It's important to understand that your surrounding areas are extensions of home security.
Right after determining your threats, it's also sensible to write down a
plan for accident prevention and fire safety. These dangers may be easily disregarded but have the possibility to cause as much harm to your loved ones and private belongings as an intruder. House safety strategies can include preparing against malfunctions in your home's plumbing or heating system, medical emergencies and natural disasters.
Luckily,some Eunice home security systems, particularly those that are monitored, have options for not only burglary threats but also medical emergencies, fires and much more.
Get Great Deals on Eunice Home Security Systems
Whatever your price-range, whether you reside in a home or an apartment in Eunice, by yourself or with all your family, there is a home security system out there for you.
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ADT delivers Eunice customers a 6 month, money-back guarantee* if you aren't satisfied with their services. With risk-free security options from one of the nation's top home security system providers you cannot afford to let your home and family go unprotected.
Call now for a Free, No-Obligation consultation to assess your home security needs. | 4,118 | 1,987 | 0.000506 |
warc | 201704 | More unemployed people would have found jobs since 2010 if the government's high-profile, multi-billion pound Work Programme had never been invented, according to an influential committee of MPs.
On Friday the Commons public accounts committee published a report into Iain Duncan Smith's flagship scheme. The MPs found that between June 2011 and July 2012, only 3.6% of people referred to the scheme moved off benefit and into work, less than a third of the target of 11.9%.
Labour MP Margaret Hodge, the chair of the committee, told The Huffington Post UK that the Department for Work and Pensions had failed to meet any of its targets and that the £400m spent in the programme's first 14 months had been wasted.
"If they [had] completely ditched the whole programme more people would have got into work," she said. "If there were no programme, you would expect better outcomes."
"The department believes it's on track I'm very sceptical, I think the design and funding means there's very little money up front and no money for training. They’ve designed it wrongly and they haven’t funded it properly."
The programme was introduced in June 2011, at an estimated cost of between £3bn and £5bn over five years, but the PAC said the performance in the first year or so fell "well short" of expectations.
Not one of the 18 providers has met its contractual targets and their performance "varies wildly", so the DWP should take action against those which are failing, said the report.
The MPs warned that, given the poor performance, there was a high risk that one or more providers will fail and go out of business or have their contracts cancelled.
The committee said it shared concerns that providers are concentrating on people more likely to generate a fee, and sidelining jobless clients who require more time and investment, a process known as "creaming and parking".
Hodge also said it was "outrageous" that of the 9,500 former incapacity benefit claimants referred to providers, only 20 people had been placed in a job that has lasted three months.
The Barking MP also raised concerns about justice secretary Chris Grayling's time in government. Grayling, who was a work and pensions minster at the time the programme was launched, was promoted to the cabinet in the last reshuffle.
"Chris Grayling does not have the greatest of records of learning from what works and what does not work," Hodge said.
A DWP spokesman said: "This report paints a skewed picture. More than 200,000 people have moved off benefits and into a job thanks to the Work Programme.
"It is making a real difference to tens of thousands of the hardest to help jobseekers. Long-term unemployment fell by 15,000 in the latest quarter.
"The Work Programme gives support to claimants for two years and it hasn't even been running that long yet, so it's still early days. We know the performance of our providers is improving." | 2,961 | 1,508 | 0.000677 |
warc | 201704 | In September 2008, top executives at Bank of America decided to acquire Merrill Lynch. On November 3, 2008 Bank of America sent financial information about the merger to shareholders who would need to approve the deal in a vote on December 5. However, the financial situation at Merrill Lynch rapidly deteriorated and by the time the vote occurred, the information sent to shareholders did not accurately reflect the growing losses at Merrill Lynch. The losses became so large that by January 2009, after the merger had gone through, Bank of America requested and received a government bailout of $138 billion.
As Chairman of the Domestic Policy Subcommittee, I directed my staff to discover how this happened. After a lengthy joint investigation with the Oversight and Government Reform Committee, we determined that the losses at Merrill Lynch should have been known by top Bank of America officials and that their failure to alert shareholders of the growing losses before the December 5, 2008 vote was likely a violation of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Exchange Act of 1934. Bank of America claimed no violation occurred because lawyers for the Bank advised them that informing their shareholders was not necessary. The Securities and Exchange Commission disagreed and filed in federal court against Bank of America.
In 2010, a federal judge in New York accepted a settlement between the SEC and Bank of America in which Bank of America paid $150 million and agreed to some internal reforms. The penalty was paid to shareholders, but many of them were not satisfied. According to
New York Times reporter Gretchen Morgenson, "when Merrill's staggering fourth-quarter losses were disclosed along with the taxpayer bailout, Bank of America's shares lost more than half of their value in four trading days. Shareholders lost roughly $50 billion in market value." Some of those investors are now suing Bank of America's leadership.
The lead plaintiffs in the current lawsuit are the State Teachers Retirement System of Ohio and the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System. Their lawsuit focuses on many of the same issues as our Congressional investigation and the subsequent SEC action. Executives at Bank of America knew (or reasonably should have known) that their own projection for losses at Merrill Lynch was not a valid forecast. Those executives likely committed what is called a 'material omission' by not disclosing that information to their shareholders.
Bank of America's Merrill deal exemplifies corporate arrogance: "Wall Street executives know best," "no disclosure unless compelled" and "it's OK to play fast and loose with the rules."
It is imperative Wall Street be held accountable. With the $150 million dollar settlement with Bank of America, SEC Chairman Mary Schapiro has demonstrated that the cop is back on the beat. Yet there is more to be done.
Corporations and their executives need to pay dearly when they harm shareholders or consumers.
The Morning Email helps you start your workday with everything you need to know: breaking news, entertainment and a dash of fun. Learn more | 3,129 | 1,515 | 0.000664 |
warc | 201704 | More than 50 factories are set to be constructed in the Mtwara gas-rich region in an effort to transform the country’s agriculture based economy to an industrial one as stated in the 2025 Development Vision.
Speaking in Mtwara during ground breaking ceremony to launch the $500m Dangote cement plant, the Prime Minister, Mizengo Pinga named some of industries lined for construction as three radio and television industries and two agricultural industries.
The cement factory the largest in Sub Saharan Africa has the capacity of producing about 3 million metric tonnes of the product annually.
Others are a fertiliser factory, seven cashewnut processing firms, two building equipment, two water plants, three cement industries, one plastic industry, one industry for manufacturing of blade, two oil producing industries, one plant for manufacturing fishing boats, fourteen tourism industries and eight transport equipment production industries.
According to Pinda “Our aim is to transform the livelihoods of the locals in the southern regions and Mtwara in particular,” he said.
The Prime Minister explained that the availability of raw materials and reliable power supply were the key-door for the bold investments in the region.
He said that to make the investment productive and beneficial, the government will fasttrack the expansion of the port of Mtwara so that it can have the capacity to dock four big ships concurrently.
He further said that the government will rehabilitate the Mikindani port and make it special for passenger’s ships. Pinda said the government is currently in talks with development partners to fund the purchase of a big ship that will be ferrying people between Mtwara and Dar es Salaam.
He said since infrastructures are key to investments and development, the construction of a railway from Mchuchuma and Liganga to Mtwara is in a pipeline.
Elaborating on the Dangote cement investment, the Premier said on completion the project will bring down cement prices and hence enable people in the region to construct cheap and modern houses at lower costs.
More than 300 trucks will be allocated across the country to ensure the availability of the product he said.
The PM said currently the demand for cement is high and the prices are exorbitant in the local market.
He said the present three cement companies have failed to meet the growing demand and that the Dagonte integrated cement investment would reduce the high prices on completion in 22 months time from now.
He said currently the three cement industries produce less than 3 million tonnes a year, while the annual demand is between 3 and 4 million metric tonnes.
Pinda is optimistic that the gas-run industries would contribute greatly to the economy bearing in mind that the construction sector alone contributed more than 7.8 percent of the total income in the last financial year.
However the Prime Minister noted that more investments will be successive in the region if only the natives will maintain peace, harmony and tranquility.
The president and CEO of Dangote Group, Dr Aliko Dangote, said his investment will not only end up by constructing the plants but rather it will also contribute in health, education and water sectors.
“We are going to allocate 450m/- for women, youth and children based in Mtwara,” he said, adding that the disbursement is meant to facilitate children have access to education thus empower the young men and women.
He said his company’s long term ambition is to develop 46 million metric tonnes of production and terminal capacity in Africa by 2015.
“We want to become a truly pan-African champion in this sector, capable of competing globally and we don’t need to import cement from abroad,” he said.
Commending peace bestowed among Tanzanians, Dr Dengote assured the general public that he will also build a terminal in Dar es Salaam and Mtwara.
At the ceremony which attended by members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, politicians and religious leader promises were made to give Mtwara and communities in the neighbourhood a new breath and fresh cooperation in fighting against poverty.
Minister of States, Prime Minister’s Office (Empowerment and Investment) Dr Mary Nagu said she had instructed the investment council to visit the region and offer training on how to identify and utilise rising potentials from investments and development project in the region. | 4,489 | 2,067 | 0.000492 |
warc | 201704 | Stocks rose on Thursday led by bank shares as investors bet a stronger economy will help boost balance sheets of U.S. based lenders.
U.S. financial shares continued to delink from European peers, indicating investors were taking a closer look at the sector and finding bargains.
U.S. banks as measured by the KBW index <.BKX> posted their third day of gains, extending the week's advance to more than 6 percent. Bank of America Corp jumped 7.4 percent to $6.24 and Wells Fargo & Co gained 2.6 percent to $29.31.
The market opened lower as traders focused on heavy losses in European bank shares, led by UniCredit . Italy's largest bank by assets has lost more than 30 percent of its market value this week after it priced a share offering meant to shore up its ravaged balance sheet.
Other European banks followed suit, and an index of the region's lenders' shares <.SX7P> tumbled 3.2 percent.
"Maybe we are so far ahead of where European banks are in terms of our banks having sufficient capital it gave investors some comfort," said Peter Tuz, president of Chase Investment Counsel in Charlottesville, Va.
"It is a telling sign of the strength of the overall U.S. economy because they provide the raw material for businesses to grow."
Data continued to point to a strengthening U.S. economy. More than twice the expected number of private sector jobs were added in December while initial jobless claims dropped 15,000 in the latest week. In addition, the pace of U.S. services growth quickened more than expected in December.
The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> rose 17.03 points, or 0.14 percent, to 12,435.45. The S&P 500 Index <.INX> added 5.01 points, or 0.39 percent, to 1,282.31. The Nasdaq Composite <.IXIC> gained 22.97 points, or 0.87 percent, to 2,671.33.
Despite solid demand for a French government debt sale, investors fretted about more fragile economies, such as Italy and Spain. The euro, which has been closely correlated to global equities, fell to a 15-month low against the dollar.
The Nasdaq was boosted by strength in technology shares. Marvell Technology Group Ltd gained 6.6 percent to $15.12 while Seagate Technology Plc was up 5.3 percent to $17.71.
The S&P retail index <.RLX> edged up 0.2 percent as December sales rose, though discounts cut into profits over the holiday shopping season. Target Corp fell 3.1 percent to $48.45 while Macy's Inc added 3.6 percent to $33.82.
Dendreon Corp jumped 37.3 percent to $10.43 after its revenue jumped more than three-fold as sales of its prostate cancer vaccine took off.
Bookstore chain Barnes & Noble Inc fell 18.3 percent to $11.07 after it said it may split off its Nook electronic reader business and cut its full-year earnings forecast.
Also on the downside, Tesoro Corp tumbled 7 percent to $22.36 after it forecast a fourth-quarter loss. The warning sent shares of peers Valero Energy Corp and Marathon Petroleum Corp lower.
(Reporting by Rodrigo Campos; editing by Jeffrey Benkoe) | 2,986 | 1,605 | 0.000627 |
warc | 201704 | The euro traded steadily at $1.30 as eurozone finance ministers met in Brussles to discuss Cyprus' bailout terms. The tiny island nation's debt has created a great deal of doubt for the region, but the terms of its deal are expected to be nearly completed and announced following the summit.
The bailout amount is uncertain, although there have been estimates of up to 17 billion euros. A total that high would match the nation's annual economic output and has many speculating that it cannot sustain that amount of debt.
Ahead of the meeting German Chancellor Angela Merkel said it would be important for the ministers to take their time and find a quality solution. However in contrast, Jean-Claude Juncker, Luxembourg's Prime Minister, told reporters that the issue needs to be resolved at Friday's meeting.
Investors will also have their eyes Italy, where February's gridlocked election caused many to belive that the country will not keep up its deficit reduction efforts. The candidates were unable to agree on a coalition following the inconclusive election and added fuel to the idea that the country's lack of leadership could derail the eurozone's recovery efforts.
According to Reuters, the country's parliament will meet on Friday for the first time since the election, where leaders will attempt to find a solution to the current political stalemate.
Although Italian bonds have been able to withstand the political uncertainty so far, many speculate that they will take a hit in the coming days as the country tries to put together a capable government.
(c) 2013 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
Copyright
Benzinga. All rights reserved. | 1,707 | 912 | 0.001103 |
warc | 201704 | Six Essential Factors for Today’s CFOs
10/07/2015
(L to R) Professor José Manuel Campa, David Jiménez-Blanco (CFO, World Duty Free) and Juan Luis Ramírez Beláustegui (founding partner, Portobello Capital) / Photo: Javier Arias
"Today, more than ever, CFOs generate value," said Juan Luis Ramírez Beláustegui, a founding partner of Portobello Capital. Speaking on July 9 at the 1st Chief Financial Officers Meeting, Ramírez emphasized the fact that the duties of a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) are no longer limited to auditing, monitoring and cash flow oversight. They now include more strategic activities and play an important part in corporate social responsibility by guaranteeing sustainable growth. Andrés García-Tenorio, CFO of Hotelbeds Group, agreed and said, "CFOs are held in high regard because of the strategic value they bring to businesses."
The meeting, held by IESE on its Madrid campus in conjunction with Deloitte and SAP, looked at the new responsibilities that have arisen for CFOs since 2008 as a result of the global economic crisis. These encompass everything from supervising a company's bookkeeping to playing a central role in business strategy development by advising CEOs.
Professor
José Manuel Campa specified four main tasks that every CFO should perform, namely corporate financial planning, identifying new sources of financing, investor relations work, and dividend strategy planning. What Every CEO Needs To Know
The event's participants then agreed on
six key factors that every CFO ought to focus on in order to carry out these tasks more effectively and efficiently:
1.
Planning for scenarios and anticipating the needs of partners and suppliers. "That's not easy, because it requires us to constantly re-evaluate almost all our company's assets, and knowing what's going to happen in the future is virtually impossible," admitted David Jiménez-Blanco, CFO of World Duty Free.
2.
Offering security to attract investors. Attempting to artificially inflate forecasts inevitably causes problems, so all the information CFOs provide must be clear, concise and accurate. To that end, the participants agreed, CFOs should present the complexities of financial operations in a straightforward, comprehensible fashion.
3.
Participating in growth strategy development, working hand–in-hand with other departments in their company. "That way, a CFO will always be aware of how business is evolving," said Antonio Arnanz, CFO of the DIA Group. "Our job is to pave the way for business to improve, but without losing sight of the company's financial situation," he added.
4.
Always keeping transactions under control. Financial discipline is vital, despite the pressure that CFOs might be under whenever corporate transactions and operations take place. "The only way to make sure profits are sustainable is to keep an iron grip on accounts," said Andrés García-Tenorio.
5.
Communicating with both their organization's external auditors and different operating areas. Such coordination is crucial and must be in line with the goals established by the CEO and board of directors. In turn, board members must support CFOs and offer them protection and security.
6.
Being precise and efficient. "Efficiency entails balancing operating and financial goals," observed Ramírez Beláustegui. CFOs also need to be capable of analysis and of seeing the big picture in order to offer guidance on many key decisions. Understanding and a comprehensive perspective are essential for more than just monitoring numbers. | 3,651 | 1,842 | 0.000561 |
warc | 201704 | US Calls for Global Destruction of Illegal Ivory
The US Government today called on the international community to destroy all stocks of illegal and confiscated elephant ivory.
The US will be destroying its own ivory stockpile on October 8, 2013, as a powerful symbol that ivory trinkets have no value and are leading to the unprecedented slaughter of elephants.
“An elephant loses its life to poaching, on average, every 15-minutes,” said Jeff Flocken, Director IFAW North America (International Fund for Animal Welfare – www.ifaw.org).
The battle to save elephants cannot be fought in isolation. The US is calling for countries to stand together in the global effort to combat the current poaching crisis and the illegal wildlife trade.
The US Government has demonstrated strong leadership in this battle including Barack Obama’s recent Executive Order on combatting wildlife trafficking.
The US stockpile includes raw and carved elephant tusks, smaller carvings and other elephant ivory items. It weighs 5.4 tonnes and will crushed outside Denver, Colorado.
Illegal wildlife trade generates an estimated US$19- billion per year, and poaching and worldwide insecurity is connected. Often, the proceeds are used to fund and arm rebel and militia groups who are willing to slaughter imperiled species and kill people to obtain elephant ivory, rhinoceros horn and other wildlife parts.
Media reports this week linked the Al-Shabaab attack in Nairobi to poaching and illegal trade of ivory. It is alleged that up to 40 per cent of Al-Shabaab’s funds come from ivory buyers and consumers.
Ends
A new IFAW report,
Criminal Nature: The Global Security Implications of the Illegal Wildlife Trade, documents the threat the illegal trade poses to animals like elephants and rhinos, and also people.
The learn more about the illegal ivory trade, download IFAW’s digital magazine
Unveiling the Ivory Trade..
About IFAW (the International Fund for Animal Welfare)
IFAW is working to help protect elephants on the ground by supporting anti-poaching patrol trainings, working with Interpol to boost enforcement to fight wildlife trafficking and reducing demand for ivory through consumer awareness campaigns. IFAW is supporting the Indian Government in presenting the historic E50:50 Elephant Congress which will take place in New Delhi in November 2013, bringing together for the first time ministers from the 50 elephant range countries to address the conservation and welfare needs of elephants worldwide for the next 50 years. Visit IFAW at www.ifaw.org. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter. | 2,626 | 1,331 | 0.000765 |
warc | 201704 | Entity resolution (also known as duplicate elimination) is an important part of the data cleaning process, especially in data integration and warehousing, where data are gathered from distributed and inconsistent sources. Learnable string similarity measures are an active area of research in the entity resolution problem. Our proposed framework builds upon our earlier work on entity resolution, in which fuzzy rules and membership functions are defined by the user. Here, we exploit neuro-fuzzy modeling for the first time to produce a unique adaptive framework for entity resolution, which automatically learns and adapts to the specific notion of similarity at a meta-level. This framework encompasses many of the previous work on trainable and domain-specific similarity measures. Employing fuzzy inference, it removes the repetitive task of hard-coding a program based on a schema, which is usually required in previous approaches. In addition, our extensible framework is very flexible for the end user. Hence, it can be utilized in the production of an intelligent tool to increase the quality and accuracy of data.
Top Introduction
The problems of data quality and data cleaning are inevitable in data integration from distributed operational databases and online transaction processing (OLTP) systems (Rahm & Do, 2000). This is due to the lack of a unified set of standards spanning over all the distributed sources. One of the most challenging and resource-intensive phases of data cleaning is the removal of fuzzy duplicate records. Considering the possibility of a large number of records to be examined, the removal requires many comparisons and the comparisons demand a complex matching process.
The term
fuzzy duplicates is used for tuples that are somehow different, but describe the same real-world entity, that is, different syntaxes but the same semantic. Duplicate elimination (also known as entity resolution) is applicable in any database, but critical in data integration and analytical processing domains, where accurate reports and statistics are required. The data cleaning task by itself can be considered as a variant of data mining. Moreover, in data mining and knowledge discovery applications, cleaning is required before any useful knowledge can be extracted from data. Other application domains of entity resolution include data warehouses, especially for dimension tables, online analytical processing (OLAP) applications, decision support systems, on-demand (lazy) Web-based information integration systems, Web search engines, and numerous others. Therefore, an adaptive and flexible approach to detect the duplicates can be utilized as a tool in many database applications.
When data are gathered form distributed sources, differences between tuples are generally caused by four categories of problems in data, namely, the data are incomplete, incorrect, incomprehensible, or inconsistent. Some examples of the discrepancies are spelling errors; abbreviations; missing fields; inconsistent formats; invalid, wrong, or unknown codes; word transposition; and so forth as demonstrated using sample tuples in Table 1.
Table 1.
Examples of various discrepancies in database tuples
Discrepancy Problem Name Address Phone Number ID Number Gender John Dow Lucent Laboratories 615 5544 553066 Male Spelling Errors John Doe Lucent Laboratories 615 5544 553066 Male Abbreviations J. Dow Lucent Lab. 615 5544 553066 Male Missing Fields John Dow - 615 5544 - Male Inconsistent Formats John Dow Lucent Laboratories (021)6155544 553066 1 Word Transposition Dow John Lucent Laboratories 615 5544 553066 Male | 3,640 | 1,660 | 0.000604 |
warc | 201704 | MEDIA ADVISORY: Are You Prepared For the Great California Shakeout? Your Questions About Earthquake Preparedness and Insurance Answered
LOS ANGELES, CA, October 12, 2015 — Reporters covering the Great California ShakeOut are encouraged to contact the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.) for information on insurance coverage and earthquake preparedness tips. I.I.I. experts are also available for media interviews in English and Spanish.
Each year the Southern California Earthquake Center (SCEC) and the Earthquake Country Alliance organizes the Great ShakeOut event reaching over 10 million Californians—and 2.2 million people worldwide. Schools, businesses, government agencies, organizations, communities, and homeowners can participate by practicing Drop, Cover, and Hold On—and some will even experience earthquake simulations.
The I.I.I.’s California representative Janet Ruiz, (Cell: 707-490-9365) and Elianne González, the I.I.I.’s Hispanic press officer (cell: 954-684-4410) are available for live and taped media interviews in English and Spanish. They can discuss both earthquake preparedness and earthquake insurance. Ruiz and González will be in Los Angeles October 13–15 to participate in the Great California ShakeOut events at the SCEC on the USC Campus.
Three Ways to Prepare For a Quake Know what to do during an earthquake. Participate in an earthquake drill and practice your emergency plan with your family. Have an up to date home inventory. Use the I.I.I. Know Your Stuff free mobile app that simplifies making a home inventory. Protect yourself financially with the right amount and type of insurance. Renters and homeowners earthquake policies offer coverage for additional living expenses, contents and structural damage to a home or business.
Earthquakes and Insurance
A 2014 I.I.I. survey reveals that only 7 percent of homeowners nationwide report having earthquake coverage, down from 10 percent previously. In California where nine of the 10 most costly U.S. earthquakes occurred, only 10 percent have earthquake coverage, down from 22 percent in 2013.
Earthquakes are not covered under standard U.S. homeowners and renters or business insurance policies. Earthquake insurance, which provides protection from the shaking and cracking that can destroy buildings and personal possessions, is generally available in the form of a supplemental policy that can be purchased from a private insurance companies or from the California Earthquake Authority (CEA), a privately funded, publicly managed organization.
The I.I.I. has the following online resources available to reporters:
RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS
CONSUMER INFORMATION The California Great ShakeOut; Drop, Cover, Hold On El Gran ShakeOut Seven Steps to Earthquake Preparedness California Earthquake Authority
VIDEOS
THE I.I.I. IS A NONPROFIT, COMMUNICATIONS ORGANIZATION SUPPORTED BY THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY.
Insurance Information Institute, 110 William Street, New York, NY 10038; (212) 346-5500; www.iii.org | 3,050 | 1,526 | 0.000667 |
warc | 201704 | The idea was put forward by a private sector member of the review committee, who argued that the division of Britain's defence services into three competing units is anachronistic and wasteful.
Ministry of Defence chiefs reacted in horror at the suggestion, which might find favour with the public in a post Cold War era, but flies in the face of all military traditions.
The reaction of one junior minister was unprintable, and defence chiefs are certain to mount a powerful attack on the idea if it forms part of the final report of the review committee, due in the summer of 1998.
A single defence service bringing together all fighting units would save huge amounts of money and simplify the chain of command, it was argued during the MoD review committee's deliberations.
But defence chiefs argue that soldiers, sailors and airmen owe their first loyalty to, and fight for, their unit or regiment - not an amorphous concept like "Great Britain Defence Ltd".
They point to moves to integrate the Canadian armed forces as proof that the three services are distinct fighting groups and cannot effectively be merged.
However, the Treasury is known to be looking for economies in the MoD's annual pounds 22bn budget, on top of the pounds 170m savings ordered for the current year because of overspending by the department during the last year of Conservative rule.
The Prime Minister has promised to maintain overall defence spending for the next two years, in line with Labour's promise to sustain Tory public expenditure plans for that period. But eight out of 10 Labour MPs agree with Chancellor Gordon Brown's demand for a bigger "peace dividend".
Among the options being examined by the defence review are the merging of some helicopter operations between the RAF and the Army, a joint fighting unit between the Paras and the Marines and more use of Navy aircraft carriers by the RAF.
Other possible cuts include a dramatic reduction in the ranks of the Territorial Army from 56,000 to 35,000 and the mothballing of some RAF Tornado squadrons - including the famous 617 "Dambusters" squadron.
The number of tank regiments stationed in Germany could also be cut by one-third.
The Chancellor's National Register of Assets - the new "Domesday Book" - has also identified substantial surplus land and property holdings by the MoD that look certain to be sold off, particularly after Britain agreed to spend billions of pounds acquiring more than 200 Eurofighters.
Defence chiefs fear that despite Labour's pledges to maintain spending at 1997-98 levels, nearer the general election political pressure to make substantial savings will mount in order to deliver the Government's promises of real in- creases in expenditure on education and the NHS.Reuse content | 2,782 | 1,451 | 0.000695 |
warc | 201704 | Policy analysts are beginning to realize that the Food and Drug Administration often does more harm than good.
Consider the FDAs restrictions on pharmaceutical manufacturers ability to advertise drugs both to consumers and physicians. Such advertising would be the most effective method of informing physicians and consumers of many health benefits.
For example, it has long been known that a regular dose of aspirin can reduce the risk of heart attack in middle age by almost one-half. Bayer even makes a small coated aspirin for just this purpose.
One recent study also shows that when aspirin users do suffer heart attacks, they are much milder than attacks suffered by others. Another finds that aspirin can sometimes cut the rate of colon cancer by 40%.
Each year, 700,000 Americans die of heart-related disease and 50,000 die from colon cancer.
But thanks to the FDA, many dont know that aspirin could help. Most consumers are unaware that some drugs used for one ailment may be quite effective for others. And the FDA forbids manufacturers from advertising the heart attack benefit of regular aspirin use. For the thousands at risk for heart attack, the FDAs gag order is a prescription for disaster.
The FDA says consumers can get this information from their doctors. But many consumers dont visit physicians routinely, and many physicians dont suggest aspirin.
A recent survey shows that only one-third of patients with a history of heart trouble have ever talked to a physician about aspirin to reduce risk. And that drops to 13% among people over 50 with no history of heart disease.
Advertising could persuade many patients to ask about aspirin. This could reduce the annual number of needless deaths by tens of thousands.
What motivates the FDA? Fear that regular aspirin use slightly increases the risk of stroke for some. But the benefits far outweigh the increased risk. Advertising could caution consumers where risks outweigh benefits.
This behavior is typical of the agency. It invariably places a much greater weight on any potential harm from a drug than on any benefit. This explains the tremendous delays in FDA approval of new drugs: The agency is much more fearful of approving a harmful drug than of delaying or blocking a beneficial one. The result is excess deaths.
Other drugs also suffer from the FDAs advertising restrictions. For prescription drugs, it insists that most advertising aimed at consumers contain a one page "brief summary" in unintelligible language. Nicotine patches or gum, both effective smoking-cessation aids, require this page of warnings. As a result, prescription-drug ads can appear on TV only if they dont mention what the drugs are used for.
Recently, the FDA forbade manufacturers from informing physicians about research on "unapproved uses" for prescription drugs, even though the research may have been published in leading journals and physicians are allowed to prescribe any drug for any use. This policy is particularly harmful for anti-cancer drugs, where about one-third of all prescriptions are for unapproved uses.
The FDA says that drug manufacturers should seek approval for new uses. This can take as long as getting approval for the first use, and we already know that this process is too slow. Because the patent may expire before the new use is approved, companies often do not bother to seek such approval.
Regulations of truthful advertising may violate the First Amendment. But firms are unwilling to challenge it in court because the FDA wields enormous power over them. It regulates drug manufacturing and decides what drugs may be sold. Pharmaceutical companies fear that speaking out against the FDA would invite regulatory revenge.
Some authorities advocate shifting advertising regulation from the FDA to the weaker Federal Trade Commission to encourage firms to challenge unjustified or harmful regulations.
Granting excessive power to any government agency to restrict speech is a tremendous risk. In the case of the FDA, restrictions on free speech have literally stopped innocent people dead in their tracks.
Paul H. Rubin is a Research Fellow at the Independent Institute, the Samuel Candler Dobbs Professor of Economics at Emory University, and a contributing author to the book American Health Care: Government, Market Processes, and the Public Interest (Independent Institute). | 4,391 | 2,056 | 0.000489 |
warc | 201704 | (Last Updated on : 21/10/2013)
Forests under Mughal Empire were observed, technically, by the Mughal Emperors. Animals were known individually at the court and their deeds were celebrated. The forests were easy to map. There was a range of imperial hunting grounds in different provinces. There were vast areas of woody, scrub jungle which did not have a dense population. The cattle included antelope, gazelles and lions.
Peasants used to hack down jungle to create farmland. The gifts that were offered as tribute did give an insight into wildlife prosperity. Elephants were received as gifts instead of cash from north Indian villages. There were vast pastures for cattle and firewood. Forests were being cleared. However in large regions of central India and Chota Nagpur plateau
forest covered a greater expanse farms. Valleys, low-lying areas and the plains were cleared for agriculture.
The forests were the hunting sites, revenue-yielding arable land or an obstacle to military operations. The jungle was a place to converse with the supernatural powers. Military forces often used sawyers, woodcutters and road builders in order to deny protection to rebels. Denudation was common during war. Falconry, cheetah coursing, horsemanship and archery were the main pastimes of landed gentry across north and central India for long time. There existed much larger stretches of contiguous habitat for the larger land mammals as compared to European countries. Fire, axe and plough were reshaping vegetation patterns. The ebb and wave of the forests was itself a prominent feature of that time. Habitats of large mammals like the elephant and the rhino was broken up.
This article is a stub. You can enrich by adding more information to it. Send your Write Up to content@indianetzone.com | 1,795 | 984 | 0.00102 |
warc | 201704 | Make Social Media Networks Love You 3 Powerful tips on Social Networking
Social networking is about much more than branding yourself and getting your name out there. It is a social network of people, which is something that many companies and business owners forget. In today’s ever more competitive online world, simply posted daily and following the eighty/twenty rule is not enough and you may notice less and fewer likes, comments, shares, leads and sales.
Credit: http://www.vecteezy.com/members/sebi01
Social media runs on the engagement of people and businesses alike. For this reason, it is important to let your customers and followers know that there are people at your company, not just robots that randomly post, like, share and comment on things. Make yourself or representatives of your company available as much as possible. If you have a social media team, even better, work in shifts to keep up to date on with your pages.
The New and Improved Visually Based Internet
Over the past three years, the internet has moved from one that is text-based to one that is mostly visually based, this is especially true when it comes to social media websites. People are inundated with hundreds, maybe thousands of posts in their news feed or stream every day, they do not have much time to read long articles. So, memes, videos and other forms of visual media have become the grand ruler of these websites. Create short videos, vines, customs memes, and other visually based posts. This will entice users to click, them, especially if they involve a bit of mystery.
You also want to let your audience know that you are human. Post videos of your office and colleagues. In addition to letting people know you are a real person, it also gives credibility to your company and brand. Do interviews that spotlight your company and give people more information; this can be especially true for small or new businesses that haven’t really branded themselves or their name yet.
Make your Message Clear
When you come up with a plan for posting, whether that is for the day, week or month, give some serious thought to what your followers what to hear, as well as the message you are trying to convey cleverly to them. Social media are a two-way street, if you post something someone does not like, they are very likely to not only to stop following but to block future posts. That is not to say everything you post has to be neutral and positive, but 98% of it should be.
Avoid making every post about your company. Make sure you post interesting links or information about your particular niche. Going back to hemp jewelry, if you create and sell hemp jewelry, you obviously don’t want to post links to your competitor's pages. However, you can post articles and videos as well as share pages about jewelry making, history of the art, and other relevant topics. This particular niche would allow you to come up with some pretty interesting meme’s of your own as well.
Follow, Favorite, +1
If you have a small fan base on your social media sites, then you might want to make your circle a little bigger. An excellent way to do this is to +1, follow, or favorite users who take the time to share your content with others. This can be exceedingly helpful when you are monitoring who is looking at your posts and who likes them. Especially on Twitter, where you can monitor your username, and it shows all posts where you have been mentioned. If you do not have twitter, try using a search engine and querying your username, URL, or company name.
When it comes to facebook and Google, the guidelines and rules change quite often and can be hard to keep up with. For this reason, you want to make sure you check out recent changes to these items as it could have a significant impact on your page.
Credit: http://playwithtraffic.com/
Conclusion
The big mystery behind gaining new followers and keeping old ones is not that complicated to figure out. It also does not take a big chunk of time out of your day. The most important rule is to post, stay up to date on the latest trends, and stay in touch with your users. They are people just like you who are looking to connect with businesses much in the same way they do with their friends and family. Just a few extra clicks and you should be on your way to a huge fan base and as much exposure as you can handle.
Amazon Price:$25.95 $11.90 Buy Now
(price as of Aug 15, 2016) | 4,457 | 2,115 | 0.000477 |
warc | 201704 | In 2003, Nicholas G. Carr published his inflammatory
Harvard Business Review article, "IT Doesn't Matter," in a shot heard 'round the IT world. Then, last year, he published a book: Does IT Matter? IT and the Corrosion of Competitive Advantage.
Now, in an
InfoWorld interview, Carr says that IT might matter -- in certain cases. "I haven't changed my mind about the core of my assessment," says Carr, "which was that as IT becomes standardized and cheaper, and better understood, it becomes harder to sustain a competitive advantage."
However, "I think some companies are smart users of IT, and some not so smart," Carr adds. "And that difference itself can give you competitive advantage." He says companies that already have some important differentiation in their business -- such as in processes or strategy -- can use IT to make it harder for competitors to catch up.
He cites the example of Las Vegas-based Harrah's Entertainment, which -- as opposed to its competitors -- seeks to attract everyday gamblers rather than high rollers and uses IT to track the behavior and preferences of those everyday gamblers and provides rewards to them. "What's really different about Harrah's is not just the analytic software, which other casinos could copy, but the combination of the technology linked to a distinct customer focus," Carr says.
Carr also thinks IT can be a competitive advantage for startup or "greenfield" companies such as JetBlue, which aren't shackled to legacy business models and the legacy IT that supports them. "But that's not all that useful a model if you're an established company," he says. Instead, CIOs and IT managers at established companies should "focus on where the money's going and where the headaches are," specifically "making their existing IT operation more efficient and less capital-intensive."
After those problems have been fixed, says Carr, CIOs should look to use IT as a competitive advantage in the most specialized areas of their businesses. "Any activity or process that's unique, a distinctive app can be very powerful," says Carr, "because in those areas there's not a big incentive for vendors to move in and start offering a commoditized, packaged solution." | 2,243 | 1,151 | 0.000882 |
warc | 201704 | I recently wrote about the potential impact on differential pricing caused by the Supreme Court decision in
Kirtsaeng v. John Wiley and Sons which found that the first sale doctrine applies to copyrighted works lawfully made abroad. I noted in that article that since most digital goods are licensed, not sold, differential pricing is still possible for digital goods, but that licensing has had side effects, such as limiting the ability of consumers to resell their digital goods in the used goods market.
Generally, consumers are allowed to legally buy and sell used goods. For example, if you buy a music CD, you can listen to it as many times as you want and then, if you don’t plan to listen to it again and you haven’t made any copies, legally sell the CD. But the same isn’t true of digital goods that the consumer does not own but instead has only received a licensed to use.
For example, Amazon’s MP3 store license agreement includes the following restrictions:
“You must comply with all applicable copyright and other laws in your use of the Music Content. Except as set forth in Section 2.1 above, you may not redistribute, transmit, assign, sell, broadcast, rent, share, lend, modify, adapt, edit, license or otherwise transfer or use the Music Content. We do not grant you any synchronization, public performance, promotional use, commercial sale, resale, reproduction or distribution rights for the Music Content. As required by our Music Content providers, Music Content is available only to customers located in the United States.”
Recently, one company has attempted to change this. ReDigi has tried to create a virtual marketplace for “pre-owned” digital music so that individuals can legally buy and sell songs. Their basic idea is to have a three step process:
Users install ReDigi’s software which identifies if certain digital music files are legally owned. Users upload music they legally own to ReDigi’s cloud storage service. Users offer this music for sale. If someone buys a particular song, the seller loses access to that file and the buyer gains access. No new copies of the file are made—changes are only made to cloud-based access control system.
ReDigi argues that step two is legal because users are allowed to backup copies of their files under fair use and step three is legal because they are not creating any copies of the files (again, only changing the access control permissions). Not surprisingly, some rights holders are skeptical of the ReDigi system and have challenged its legality.
This past week a U.S. District Court issued a ruling in
Capitol Records , LLC. v. ReDigi Inc. that rejected ReDigi’s arguments. The court found that while copying music files to a cloud service does not necessarily violate fair use, copying these files to a cloud service for the purpose of selling the music does fall outside of fair use. In addition, since the court does not believe the copy falls under fair use, it is not a lawful copy and therefore not subject to the first sale doctrine.
The court is quite explicit in its ruling:
“Here, a ReDigi user owns the phonorecord that was created when she purchased and downloaded a song from iTunes to her hard disk. But to sell that song on ReDigi, she must produce a new phonorecord on the ReDigi server. Because it is therefore impossible for the user to sell her “particular” phonorecord on ReDigi, the first sale statute cannot provide a defense. Put another way, the first sale defense is limited to material items, like records, that the copyright owner put into the stream of commerce. Here, ReDigi is not distributing such material items; rather, it is distributing
reproductionsof the copyrighted code embedded in new material objects, namely, the ReDigi server in Arizona and its users’ hard drives. The first sale defense does not cover this any more than it covered the sale of cassette recordings of vinyl records in a bygone era.” (emphasis in original)
The ruling goes on to argue that U.S. copyright law quite clearly does not allow for secondary markets of “pre-owned” digital goods. Indeed, Reps. Boucher and Campbell had proposed legislation in 1997 to update Section 109 of the Copyright Act so that the first sale doctrine would apply to digital works, but their legislation was never enacted.
Of course, there are many reasons why not allowing users to sell “used” digital goods makes sense. As explained back in 2001 by Marybeth Peters, former Register of Copyrights:
“Physical copies degrade with time and use; digital information does not. Works in digital format can be reproduced flawlessly, and disseminated to nearly any point on the globe instantly and at negligible cost. Digital transmissions can adversely affect the market for the original to a much greater degree than transfers of physical copies.”
But while digital goods may be intrinsically different than non-digital goods, should that necessarily exclude them from being re-sold? Back in 2001, Ms. Peters argued that the status of the technology necessary to allow the sale of used digital goods is uncertain. She wrote:
“Additionally, unless a ‘forward-and-delete’ technology is employed to automatically delete the sender’s copy, the deletion of a work requires an additional affirmative act on the part of the sender subsequent to the transmission. This act is difficult to prove or disprove, as is a person’s claim to have transmitted only a single copy, thereby raising complex evidentiary concerns. There were conflicting views on whether effective forward and delete technologies exist today. Even if they do, it is not clear that the market will bear the cost of an expensive technological measure.”
Whether a system like ReDigi actually prevents music piracy is an open question. There is certainly a degree of consumer trust involved—and I’m sure it is possible to circumvent the system, at least on a limited basis. But the same is true when buying and selling CDs since it is impossible to be sure that the seller has not made an illegal copy. To its credit, ReDigi has implemented various controls to try to prevent users from cheating and keeping copies of the music that they upload. (For the full details, check out their FAQ “Is ReDigi Legal?”)
There are no obvious answers here, but if Congress does consider additional reforms to the Copyright Act, it is worth revisiting whether the technology has changed enough to warrant rethinking the First Sale doctrine for digital goods or if we are willing to accept that the First Sale doctrine is no longer feasible in a digital world.
Image credit: Photo by Flickr user fensterbme | 6,804 | 3,097 | 0.000332 |
warc | 201704 | Infrared imagery from NASA's Aqua satellite helped confirm that the remnant low pressure area of former Tropical Storm Genevieve has become a Zombie storm, and has been reborn as a tropical depression on July 30.
Tropical Storm Genevieve weakened to a tropical depression on Sunday, July 27 and the National Hurricane Center issued their final advisory on the system as it was entering the Central Pacific. Now, after three days of living as a remnant low pressure area, Genevieve reorganized and was classified as a tropical depression again.
The AIRS instrument aboard NASA's Aqua satellite captured this infrared image of strong thunderstorms (purple) that redeveloped around Genevieve's center on July 30 at 11:29 UTC (7:29 a.m. EDT).
Image Credit: NASA JPL, Ed Olsen
The Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission or TRMM satellite measured rainfall rates in the newly reborn Tropical Depression Genevieve on July 30 at 0523 UTC (1:23 a.m. EDT). A rainfall analysis from TRMM's Microwave and Precipitation Radar instruments shows rain falling at a rate of over 28.5 mm/hr (about 1.1 inches) near Genevieve's center. TRMM is a satellite managed by NASA and the Japanese Space Agency.
When NASA's Aqua satellite passed over Genevieve on July 30 at 11:29 UTC (7:29 a.m. EDT), the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) instrument gathered infrared data on the storm's cloud tops. AIRS data showed thunderstorms reaching toward the top of the troposphere had redeveloped around the low pressure area's center of circulation. Cloud top temperatures exceeded -63F/52C and had the potential to generate heavy rainfall.
At 5 a.m. HST (11 a.m. EDT/1500 UTC) the center of Tropical Depression Genevieve was located near latitude 12.9 north, longitude 149.6 west. That puts Genevieve's center about 585 miles (940 km) southeast of South Point, Hawaii and 795 miles (1,285 km) southeast of Honolulu. Genevieve is moving westward at about 10 mph. The depression is moving toward the west near 7 mph (11 kph) and this motion is expected to continue through the next two days. The estimated minimum central pressure is 1009 millibars.
According to NOAA's Central Pacific Hurricane Center (CPHC), Genevieve's maximum sustained winds were near 35 mph (55 kph) and some strengthening is forecast during the next two days, with Genevieve likely becoming a tropical storm within the next day. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect.
To the west of Genevieve, there are two other developing tropical low pressure areas, but they have low chances for development. The first is a disorganized area of showers and thunderstorms about 810 miles south-southwest of Oahu. The CPHC expects this low pressure area to drift slowly to the west-northwest and forecasters there gave it a 20 percent chance of becoming a tropical depression over the next two days.
The other area is one of disorganized convection (rising air that forms thunderstorms), clouds and showers was centered about 1,600 miles southwest of Oahu. The CPHC noted that there is little, if any, indication that any organization is possible with this system during the next couple of days. So, even if those two low pressure areas remain "dead" to development, Genevieve the zombie storm is expected to strengthen into a tropical storm in a day or two.
Text credit:
Rob Gutro NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center
Rob Gutro | Eurek Alert!
Further information: http://www.nasa.gov
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warc | 201704 | A fossil supervolcano has been discovered in the Italian Alps' Sesia Valley by a team led by James E. Quick, a geology professor at Southern Methodist University. The discovery will advance scientific understanding of active supervolcanoes, like Yellowstone, which is the second-largest supervolcano in the world and which last erupted 630,000 years ago.
A rare uplift of the Earth's crust in the Sesia Valley reveals for the first time the actual "plumbing" of a supervolcano from the surface to the source of the magma deep within the Earth, according to a new research article reporting the discovery. The uplift reveals to an unprecedented depth of 25 kilometers the tracks and trails of the magma as it moved through the Earth's crust.
Supervolcanoes, historically called calderas, are enormous craters tens of kilometers in diameter. Their eruptions are sparked by the explosive release of gas from molten rock or "magma" as it pushes its way to the Earth's surface.
Calderas erupt hundreds to thousands of cubic kilometers of volcanic ash. Explosive events occur every few hundred thousand years. Supervolcanoes have spread lava and ash vast distances and scientists believe they may have set off catastrophic global cooling events at different periods in the Earth's past.
Sesia Valley's caldera erupted during the "Permian" geologic time period, say the discovery scientists. It is more than 13 kilometers in diameter.
"What's new is to see the magmatic plumbing system all the way through the Earth's crust," says Quick, who previously served as program coordinator for the Volcano Hazards Program of the U.S. Geological Survey. "Now we want to start to use this discovery. We want to understand the fundamental processes that influence eruptions: Where are magmas stored prior to these giant eruptions? From what depth do the eruptions emanate?"
Sesia Valley's unprecedented exposure of magmatic plumbing provides a model for interpreting geophysical profiles and magmatic processes beneath active calderas. The exposure also serves as direct confirmation of the cause-and-effect link between molten rock moving through the Earth's crust and explosive volcanism.
"It might lead to a better interpretation of monitoring data and improved prediction of eruptions," says Quick, lead author of the research article reporting the discovery. The article, "Magmatic plumbing of a large Permian caldera exposed to a depth of 25 km.," appears in the July issue of the peer-reviewed journal "Geology."
Calderas, which typically exhibit high levels of seismic and hydrothermal activity, often swell, suggesting movement of fluids beneath the surface.
"We want to better understand the tell-tale signs that a caldera is advancing to eruption so that we can improve warnings and avoid false alerts," Quick says.
To date, scientists have been able to study exposed caldera "plumbing" from the surface of the Earth to a depth of only 5 kilometers. Because of that, scientific understanding has been limited to geophysical data and analysis of erupted volcanic rocks. Quick likens the relevance of Sesia Valley to seeing bones and muscle inside the human body for the first time after previously envisioning human anatomy on the basis of a sonogram only.
"We think of the Sesia Valley find as the 'Rosetta Stone' for supervolcanoes because the depth to which rocks are exposed will help us to link the geologic and geophysical data," Quick says. "This is a very rare spot. The base of the Earth's crust is turned up on edge. It was created when Africa and Europe began colliding about 30 million years ago and the crust of Italy was turned on end."
Bristish researchers introduced the term "supervolcano" in the last 10 years. Scientists have documented fewer than two dozen caldera eruptions in the last 1 million years.
Besides Yellowstone, other monumental explosions have included Lake Toba on Indonesia's Sumatra island 74,000 years ago, which is believed to be the largest volcanic eruption on Earth in the past 25 million years.
Described as a massive climate-changing event, the Lake Toba eruption is thought to have killed an estimated 60% of humans alive at the time.
Another caldera, and one that remains active, Long Valley in California erupted about 760,000 years ago and spread volcanic ash for 600 cubic kilometers. The ash blanketed the southwestern United States, extending from California to as far west as Nebraska.
"There will be another supervolcano explosion," Quick says. "We don't know where. Sesia Valley could help us to predict the next event."
Quick is a professor in the SMU Roy M. Huffington Department of Earth Sciences as well as SMU associate vice president for research and dean of graduate studies. Co-authors of the report are Silvano Sinigoi, Gabriella Peressini and Gabriella Demarchi, all of the Universita di Trieste; John L. Wooden, Stanford University; and Andrea Sbisa, Universita di Trieste. — Margaret Allen
Kim Cobb | EurekAlert!
Further information: http://www.smu.edu
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warc | 201704 | A team of scientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) reports on Thursday their success in solving the molecular structure of a key portion of a cellular receptor implicated in Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and other serious illnesses.
Assistant Professor Hiro Furukawa, Ph.D., and colleagues at CSHL, in cooperation with the National Synchrotron Light Source at Brookhaven National Laboratory, obtained crystal structures for one of several "subunits" of the NMDA receptor. This receptor, formally called the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor, belongs to a family of cellular receptors that mediate excitatory nerve transmission in the brain.
Excitatory signals represent the majority of nerve signals in most regions of the human brain. One theory of causation in Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and multiple sclerosis posits that excessive amounts of the excitatory neurotransmitter, glutamate, can cause an overstimulation of glutamate receptors, including the NMDA receptor. Such excitotoxicity, the theory holds, can cause nerve-cell death and subsequent neurological dysfunction.
A class of inhibitors of the NMDA receptor under the generic name Memantine has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in moderate and severe cases of Alzheimer's. Memantine is a non-specific inhibitor of the NMDA receptor and is neither a cure nor an agent that can halt progression of the disease. The search is well under way for molecules that can shut down the NMDA receptor with much greater specificity. The CSHL team's work pertains directly to that effort.
The NMDA receptor is modular, composed of multiple domains with distinct functional roles. Part of the receptor is lodged in the membrane of nerve cells and part juts out from the membrane. Furukawa's CSHL team focused on a portion of the so-called extracellular domain of the receptor, a subunit called NR2B, which includes a domain of particular interest called the ATD (the amino terminal domain).
"This part is of great interest to us because it has very little in common with ATDs in other kinds of glutamate receptors involved in nerve transmission," says Furukawa. Its uniqueness makes it a potentially interesting target for future drugs. "Our interest is even keener because we already know there are a rich spectrum of small molecules that can bind the ATD of NMDA receptors."
Without a highly detailed molecular picture of the ATD, however, efforts to rationally design inhibitors cannot proceed. Hence the importance of Furukawa's achievement: a crystal structure revealed by the powerful light source at Brookhaven National Laboratory, that shows the ATD to have a "clamshell"-like appearance that is important for its function. The results are published in a paper appearing online Thursday ahead of print in The EMBO Journal, the publication of the European Molecular Biology Organization.
The team obtained structures of the ATD domain with and without zinc binding to it. Zinc is a natural ligand that docks at a spot within the "clamshell" in routine functioning of the NMDA receptor. Of much greater interest is the location and nature of a suspected binding site of a small molecule type that is known to bind the ATD and inhibit the action of the NMDA receptor.
These inhibitor molecules are members of a class of compounds called phenylethanolamines which "have high efficacy and specificity and show some promise as neuroprotective agents without side effects seen in compounds that bind at the extracellular domain of other receptors," Furukawa explains. Now that his team has solved the structure of the ATD domain of the NR2B subunit, it becomes possible to proceed with rational design of a phenylethanolamine-like compound that can precisely bind the ATD within what Furukawa and colleagues call its "clamshell cleft," based on the crystal structure they have obtained.
"Structure of the Zinc-bound Amino-terminal Domain of the NMDA receptor NR2B subunit" will be published online ahead of print November 12 in The EMBO Journal. The authors are: Erkan Karakas, Noriko Simorowski, and Hiro Furukawa. The paper will be available online Nov. 12 at: http://www.nature.com/emboj/journal/vaop/ncurrent/index.html
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) is a private, not-for-profit research and education institution at the forefront of efforts in molecular biology and genetics to generate knowledge that will yield better diagnostics and treatments for cancer, neurological diseases and other major causes of human suffering.
Peter Tarr | EurekAlert!
Further information: http://www.cshl.edu
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warc | 201704 | By Art Bentley
Although Sun Valley’s Bald Mountain offers nearly three times the vertical of our own Snow Summit, these two great ski areas ensure their success with the same winning formula.
The fortunes of Sun Valley are linked as inextricably as those of the 60-year-old resort at Big Bear Lake to a prodigious capacity for turning water and compressed air into a four-letter word of supreme importance to that segment of the populace transported to ecstasy by its “plentitude” or driven to madness by its lack thereof.
That word is “snow.”
In its manufactured form, it allowed resorts as different yet similar as Sun Valley in Idaho and Snow Summit and its neighbor, Bear Mountain, which it owns, to succeed last season, while most other ski areas that depend far more heavily on nature for their snow struggled mightily.
Except in Southern California, big snowstorms seem a lock in the ski country of the West from late November until mid-April or so. Last winter, however, there was no significant snow anywhere in the Western U.S. until well past New Year’s Day. Many resorts missed the Christmas holidays, a huge financial blow.
But at Sun Valley and the two Big Bear Lake resorts, it was business as usual.
At Sun Valley, as at Big Bear Lake, they really don’t care whether it snows. All they want are cold, dry temperatures — and there were many last December and January. At that time, when the runs of competitors were covered with dirt, skiing the 3,400 vertical feet top to bottom on Bald Mountain was excellent.
In 1991, owner Earl Holding, who had acquired the resort in 1977, spent $15 million to install what was then North America’s largest automated snowmaking system. Since then, Sun Valley has invested in new, more energy-efficient equipment and has expanded the system so that today, 80 percent of the designated runs are lined with 555 giraffe-like guns that blow clouds of snow up to 50 feet high.
When they’re firing, each gun is controlled by a central computer that gets a data feed every seven to eight minutes and makes calculations and adjustments on the fly. The data comes from weather stations that look like bird cages, one for every five to 10 guns.
Operators calculate the moisture content of the air and tell the computer what they want in terms of snow characteristics.
The computer passes the electronic word to the guns, but the guns also appear to have minds of their own. If the weather stations detect a drop in temperature, the guns will request more water.
“Back in the ’70s it was obvious that snowmaking was essential,” said Jack Sibbach, marketing director. “But it was Mr. Holding who made the commitment. He knew it was an essential investment we would have to make for our future. Some years we might not need it as much as others, but there are going to be years we’re going to need it a lot to get the quality of product we want and our guests deserve.”
Last winter was one of the times when Sun Valley needed snowmaking a lot — not only the resort but also the nearby businesses that depend on the resort’s success for their own good fortunes.
“Last year at Christmas, snowmaking saved the community,” Sibbach said. “It was a huge economic boon and we had a great Christmas.”
Despite a lack of natural snow, the entire community did well — lodging, retail and restaurants. That was a testament to Mr. Holding and his investment and the guys who do all the hard work, the snowmakers and groomers.
That’s the kind of Christmas story that would warm the heart of the equally savvy Dick Kun, who operates Snow Summit and Bear Mountain and who believes just as strongly in the power of snowmaking to change the ski world. Neither Sun Valley nor his Big Bear Lake resorts would be competitive without it.
Art Bentley can be reached via email, at hobacks@aol.com. | 3,951 | 1,961 | 0.000529 |
warc | 201704 | The ICA is a world-wide association developed to establish a universal standard of dementia care for individuals by providing education, coaching and dementia homes.
Training & Consulting
With so much conflicting information available about Alzheimer’s and Dementia care, it’s difficult for family members to quickly find the information necessary to best care for a loved one. The International Caregivers Association (ICA) is a no-nonsense, knowledgeable, solution-driven source critical to your caregiving success. ICA offers one-of-a-kind dementia care training curriculum for your business or school program.
Coaching & Mentoring
ICA pioneered Alzheimer/dementia coaching. It offers you a referral service for quick and easy access to a certified coach of your choice. There is a distinction between coaching and mentoring. Coaching allows you to focus on specific goals, creating outcomes and managing dementia care for success. Mentoring allows you to advise or train someone in dementia care services. In business, mentoring is an essential leadership skill.
Care Social Community
ICA pioneered the care/social community concept of family living to replace the medical/rehab model which is currently employed throughout the world. In this unique environment the person living with dementia and their primary caregiver can live together. The primary caregiver continues to provide care but is assisted by staff and other caregivers, receiving all the accommodations to support life and family such as medical and allied services.
Dementia Resources
Not enough is known about dementia/Alzheimer today. There are no effective medical treatments and dementia care continues to be experimental. The ICA is leading efforts to standardize the care of these precious individuals and to unite family caregivers as the agents of change in dementia. Family caregivers are leading the effort to create interprofessional healthcare dementia teams.
The ICA invites you to join the movement to change the course of dementia care. By changing the course of dementia care, the cost of care is reduced and the quality of life increases. Dementia care is a moral responsibility we all share. Join the ICA and become an important part of the larger, stronger interprofessional dementia healthcare team.
GSHS treatments are most often done from a distance, in the comfort of your home or office, and without the need to displace the person receiving them. The GSHS practitioner follows an established technique to deliver energy to a specific body system to direct healing.
With the GSHS, individuals are able to participate in activities more easily and experience improved memory and increased ability to speak and move. Imagine a future without dementia, and how life could be….
Breakthrough Dementia Care Solutions
ICA makes a distinction between dementia care solutions and dementia care offers. A dementia care solution is one that is intended to create positive results in the middle of chaos or a challenging situation. ICA leads the way in dementia education because of our inquiry-based programs and breakthrough programs. We inform, teach, demonstrate, supervise and mentor all our trainees.
ICA helps you solve the problem of retention in dementia care. Turnover remains one of the most expensive problems in healthcare today. We can create a bulletproof process for hiring, training, and retention. We understand well the specialty that we refer to as dementia care.
ICA is leading the way to build care/social communities in every country around the world. These communities offer family living arrangements for those living with dementia. These communities are constructed in such a way to minimize isolation and improve living conditions for families through social and care services. They are universal, safe, and offer the best possible dementia care to consumers.
When a doctor is finding it difficult to communicate with dementia patients, consider ICA consulting and coaching services. When an administrator cannot find and retain employees, consider ICA consulting and coaching services. When families are getting desperate and wonder how much longer they can hold on, know that ICA coaching services are here to help. Publications
Here you will find the Alzheimer’s Primer
“How in the World… and Now What Do I Do?” authored by Dr. Ethelle G. Lord and previously only available at AlzheimersPrimer.com. The primer is available in printed form in English, Spanish, French, and Arabic.
This small publication is designed to help the medical community to reassure their patients that steps must be taken to maximize the management of such a diagnosis. It is especially designed to guide the family in taking the right steps more quickly and with more ease. In a way it is your map to Alzheimer’s. You will find useful resources that will clarify a complex and difficult diagnosis.
In her latest book,
“Alzheimer’s and Dementia Coaching: Taking A Systems Approach In Creating An Alzheimer’s Friendly Healthcare Workforce” Dr. Éthelle G. Lord reveals her heart-felt feelings born of her experience as family caregiver for her husband, Major Larry S. Potter, USAF Retired, a specialist in the field of small business education, who lives with the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s. “I owe him an enormous debt and gratitude for introducing me to the connection between spirituality and dementia”, she writes.
What she also writes in her book is the product of her career as a university professor and her experienced-based, disciplined understanding of the clinical, psychological and spiritual value of dementia coaching, and of the need for a standard in dementia care education.
“Based on her painful struggles as well as rewarding experiences caring and advocating for her beloved husband Larry for close to 15 years, Dr. Lord not only transformed from a family care partner to what she calls a “pack leader” but she also discovered a major gap in the health and social care system for people living with dementia – the lack of International as well as Federal and State government support for a sorely needed profession in dementia care – The Dementia Coach.” -Eilon Caspi Ph.D. Founder and Director, Dementia Behavior Consulting, LLC | 6,368 | 2,857 | 0.000358 |
warc | 201704 | The IPv6 drumbeat hasn’t quite reached the level of urgency required to keep the U.S. from falling behind other parts of the world in implementation, says a report from Logicalis US. Based on an analysis of Cisco data, one year after World IPv6 Day, the
U.S. ranks seventh in readiness for the new IP address protocol.
“This is undoubtedly a concern for U.S. businesses. IPv6 might sound like a technology issue, but it’s much more than that. The United States has certainly not fallen too far behind yet, but failure to keep pace with other nations – trade partners or competitors – could ultimately have serious implications in terms of competitive capabilities for U.S. businesses,” said Mike Martin, senior vice president, Solutions and Services, at Logicalis US, in the release on the findings.
IPv6 Readiness, based on Cisco data
Logicalis points to a number of threats to growth within U.S. enterprises and the U.S. economy as a whole, perhaps most notably the fact that global business opportunities could be hampered if U.S. companies are seen as falling behind on this point.
Trends contributing to the mission-critical nature of adoption of IPv6 include the
proliferation of mobile devices and their use for work purposes; M2M or the Internet of Things bringing appliances, vehicles and numerous other systems online; and the expanding intricacy of existing enterprise-grade systems. Even gaming is a large contributor to the need for IPv6 address expansion.
IT Business Edge’s Carl Weinschenk recently wrote that
U.S. network providers, not surprisingly, seem to have gotten the IPv6 message, even if enterprise hasn’t quite yet. | 1,691 | 920 | 0.00112 |
warc | 201704 | New Year's Resolutions
Brent J. McClendon, CAE
Executive Vice President
International Wood Products Association
I’m taking a break from raking leaves at my house to write this column on New Year’s resolutions. It is an opportunity to promise yourself that in the New Year you will be healthier, wealthier, wiser, … you get my point. The resolutions I’m offering have relevance for your business and personal life. It’s been a tough 2009. Now it’s time to dust ourselves off and march into 2010 with a new set of goals and expectations.
Social Media. The time has come for our industry to fully embrace. IWPA jumped in with two feet in 2009 by creating a fan page on FaceBook, a group on LinkedIn, a new blog, and even a Twitter site. Join the conversation or just watch from the sidelines, but either way get up-to-speed as quickly as possible. As a test to see how easy and efficient the process, we established our presence on all four sites in one day. You can too!
Embrace Technology. The potential from email marketing (e.g. Constant Contact), web-based content management software, and web-usage tracking tools (e.g. Google Analytics) greatly expands your ability to customize messages for different audiences and track the success of each initiative. Knowledge is power and the tools available today are certainly quite powerful. IWPA has completely modified our entire technology system and have seen immediate benefits.
Make your business association work. Whether you are a member of IWPA, local Chamber or some other trade association – maximize your dues investment! As an association exec, nothing is more frustrating to me than finding out about a member’s problem or question after the fact. We’re here to help your company deal with government compliance issues, marketing, networking and a host of other services.
Join your business association. Ok, so somewhat self-serving and yes, I’m quite biased. However, only through groups can we effectively make a difference with our congressional leaders and regulatory agencies. Your voice is magnified through a group whether in advocacy or marketing. IWPA’s online membership directory is receiving 1,500 unique hits / month as more and more purchasers know where to turn for their sourcing solutions and we’re seeing this number continue to swell.
Attend Conventions and Tradeshows. Times are tough no doubt. You also recognize you can’t grow by cutting. So what to do? Our approach is to take a rifle-shot focus and maximize our exposure while events where we know we can see our members and potential members. Our upcoming April 28-30, 2010 convention in Miami Beach takes that idea and puts it on steroids. Overseas delegations from around the world. Most major importers. All together under one roof. That is our formula for success and we welcome you to take advantage of this opportunity.
Compliance check. Our industry is operating under new laws and regulations. Develop a due diligence plan if you don’t already have one to compliment your purchasing policy and environmental statements. A key component for successful plans is a designated employee/owner charged with implementation and monitoring. All companies need to comply with the Lacey Act regardless of whether or not a declaration is required for a particular product. Follow up with your suppliers and continually update the background documentation you have regarding their sourcing. For Lacey Act compliance help, click here or contact IWPA directly at 703-820-6696.
Plan for the future. Plywood importers supplying California customers must comply with formaldehyde emission standards as stipulated by the California Air Resources Board. Become an expert! Keep at your finger tips the full regulation and answers to most common questions by downloading the FAQ document at www.arb.ca.gov/toxics/compwood/compwood. htm. There is new federal legislation pending to apply much of the California standard nationwide so get fully up to speed now.
Customer Service. Make it a point to talk with your customers in addition to a routine sales call. Read an interesting tweet from IWPA? Forward it. See a story for a new application for plywood in International Wood or some other magazine? Send it. Brand your company as one where the “customer comes first.”
Review, review, review. Look at all of your service contracts. Are you getting the best deal possible? We did this at IWPA and identified significant savings on health insurance, telephone and internet contracts - and even our cleaning service! Talk to your accountant and see if your business is affected by any new state or local tax plans that can save you money.
Go back to school. It is difficult to spend any money on extras, but training for yourself or your employees is an essential. There is a lot of new technology for marketing, inventory, customs, accounting, etc. that can save you money in the long run. Venues to learn are offered by community colleges, private vendors and Webinars. This is one area where IWPA is not cutting back, we’re investing in our employees. That was 10, but here is one to grow on!
Health and Fitness. Now that you have your company humming along don’t overlook the basics of your own health. Sure this is a typical New Year’s Resolution, but try to re-double your efforts this year and celebrate even small steps forward. Greater conditioning is proven to lower stress and increase energy levels. And to do all that is listed above, being in good shape will be a great asset. Wishing you a successful, rewarding and joyous 2010.
Import/Export Wood Purchasing News - October/November 2009 | 5,732 | 2,874 | 0.000355 |
warc | 201704 | New group raises concerns about local political issues
A group of Jamestowners wants to organize so they can provide a new voice for residents who are concerned about local and national issues.
The group held its first meeting on June 10 at the Jamestown Senior Center. Formerly called the Republican and Independent Voters Coalition, the group discussed plans to change its name to avoid political party affiliation. As a coalition for concerned citizens and taxpayers of Jamestown, attendee Jill Meyer described the organization more “like a watchdog group.”
The meeting was attended by about 20 Jamestowners, who shared ideas and brainstormed. They discussed local, state and national issues. They talked about taxes on the island and the passage of new White House policies. The nearly two-hour-long meeting consisted of open public discussion. Volunteer speakers voiced their concerns and offered solutions to the problems addressed.
Upcoming elections to the school committee, town council and renegotiation of the police contract were brought up. The group wants to build a strong organiza- tion and increase its membership in hopes of supporting future candidates for the state legislature.
Taxes on the island were a pressing issue at the meeting. “Everyone in the room feels taxes are too high federally, state and locally,” said Frank Willis, a coalition member. Willis expressed concern over paying taxes when citizens are unaware of how and why the money is spent. “Where does our money go?” he said. “I want to know. What does it really cost for any given item and why?”
Tony Antine agreed and said taxes should be lowered. “We should cut the taxes in this town,” he said. “We’re heading towards socialism. Pretty soon, you run out of somebody else’s money. I think that’s where we’re going.”
While the group agreed that the town’s budget this year is acceptable, several people said they expect next year will be harder for the island taxpayers. The town will have to use its “reserve funds,” they said.
“This year, we will be able to hold the budget,” said Norma Willis, the wife of Phil. “But, next year will be difficult.”
According to Antine, if taxes surge in the future, people will rally, but it could be too late. “We’re here to get a head start,” he said.
John Pagano said he was concerned about tax and equities per individual. Pagano says he experienced “prominent individuals” paying less “per square foot of their home” than him and other “normal” citizens, an injustice he seeks to eliminate.
Frank Willis offered suggestions for the cloudiness surrounding high taxes. “We need a breakdown, line-by-line, of the budget,” he said. “We need it in a spread sheet format and made available through the press.”
Donna Perry, who made an unsuccessful bid for the state Senate last year, talked about the Rhode Island Statewide Coalition, a group whose goals are similar to the Jamestowners’ efforts. “These taxpayer groups are fighting the same battle we are here,” she said.
“Police and firefighters do a great service to communities,” Perry said. “Not trying to be personal, but there comes a time when these pensions are not sustainable. One out of six pension checks is going to Florida. The money isn’t always kept in the state.”
Frank Meyer said he was concerned about police contracts, particularly in the areas of sick leave and overtime.
Other meeting attendees, such as longtime coalition member Bill Sprague, said that organizing locally is the best way to fight the national issues, the problems that concern him most. “I’m concerned about our ordained president,” Sprague said. “He has given a huge percentage of ownership to the union and plans to implement universal health care. This party needs to grow here so we can fight against what’s happening nationwide.”
Sprague was not the only one who addressed economic issues broader than finances on the island. Antine expressed concern over the devaluation of the dollar among other nations. “Russia and China don’t want to keep the dollar anymore because it’s too weak,” he said. “It needs to change. We have to start in Jamestown.”
Members were in agreement that starting locally is the best way to see desired results, but several people, including Jerry Scott, said they felt more community input is necessary. “My biggest problem is apathy – people just don’t care,” Scott said. “How many people showed up to the last town meeting? Five percent of the Jamestown population?”
The group also discussed ways to “stimulate” the population. They discussed the possibility of talking to Jamestowners through telephone or e-mail, writing letters to the editor and holding more meetings. “Jamestown, we all love it, it’s a beautiful town,” said Perry, “but we need to look down the line.”
At the end of the meeting, the group estalbished a committee to set goals and objectives.
The next meeting will be held Wednesday, June 24, at 7:30 p.m. in the Senior Center. | 5,313 | 2,425 | 0.000443 |
warc | 201704 | BEIJING – China could run its biggest budget deficit in perhaps half a century next year as leaders turn to government spending to arrest the slowdown in the economy, policy advisers say, after a year of easing monetary policy has brought disappointing results.
The government is expected to increase its budget deficit to about 3 percent of gross domestic product in 2016 from a target of 2.3 percent this year to help cushion against the possible economic impact from structural reforms, the advisers said.
The sources, who prepare advice for senior leaders but are not involved in final policy decisions, said a bigger deficit, as a counter to the expected pain from plans to tackle oversupply and debt, was among recommendations that were made to leaders at a recent meeting that set the economic agenda for next year.
“Next year’s budget deficit ratio is very likely to rise to 3 percent or slightly higher, and we cannot rule out the possibility of continued rises in the next several years,” said a source at the finance ministry.
Last month, Vice Finance Minister Zhu Guangyao said economists should reconsider what constitutes a danger zone for deficit-to-GDP ratios. Some analysts took that as a hint of more aggressive stimulus measures to come.
“To halt a further slowdown in economic growth, China should take a more forceful fiscal policy next year and in coming years, using the fiscal policy as the main tool,” said an influential economist at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, a top government think tank.
Growth in the world’s second-largest economy is set to slow to a quarter-century low of about 7 percent this year. Deflationary pressures persist, even after a year of cuts in interest rates and bank reserve requirements, plus fund injections into the banking system and easier loan requirements.
The government is expected to target economic growth of at least 6.5 percent in 2016, in line with a new five-year plan to fulfill a previously announced goal of doubling GDP and per capita incomes by 2020 from 2010 levels, policy insiders say.
“During the deflationary period, monetary policy is ineffective, as banks are reluctant to lend and companies are reluctant to borrow,” said the CASS economist, adding that the government should run a budget deficit of 3 to 4 percent of GDP in 2016 to finance tax cuts and infrastructure spending.
After senior leaders held their Central Economic Work Conference in the middle of this month, they outlined five major tasks for restructuring: capacity elimination, de-stocking, deleveraging, lowering costs and “making up for shortcomings.”
But such reforms could weaken growth further before the benefits are seen. That carries risks such as higher unemployment for a leadership that is bound by goals set by the previous administration.
So while monetary policy will remain supportive, the new policy buzz phrase in China is “supply-side reform.”
“There is still some room for policy easing. The scope for cutting interest rates is small, with one or two cuts expected next year,” said an economist who advises the government.
There are no complete official data on the ratio of deficit to GDP, but Chinese analysts said the level never hit 3 percent in the post-1978 era, when former leader Deng Xiaoping launched liberalizing reforms to China’s command economy.
The last time the level neared 3 percent was in 2009, when a 4 trillion yuan ($615 billion) stimulus package to counter the global financial crisis pushed it out to 2.8 percent of GDP. At the time, a vice finance minister said China had run deficits of more than 5 percent in the 1960s.
Although this year’s target is 2.3 percent, Finance Minister Lou Jiwei said in March the actual level could be 2.7 percent after including unspent amounts from earlier budgets.
“It could be raised to around 3 percent. We must implement a proactive policy and expand fiscal spending to support the slowing economy,” said an influential economist who advises the National People’s Congress. | 4,129 | 1,982 | 0.000519 |
warc | 201704 | Chapter 5. Enhancing responses to literary texts with L2 learners
This chapter reports an empirical study investigating literary reading processes conducted with young adult readers who operate in a second language-learning (L2) environment. The scope of the study is to observe and identify reading processes these learners engage in while reading a literary text. These learners are students of literature but considered to be in the process of becoming informed readers of literature, that is ‘learner-readers’. Intrinsic to the study is the introduction of a model based on a pedagogical framework, the Strike-Annotate-Speak-Write (SASW) model for L2 learner-readers. The chapter highlights the different literary reading processes adopted by the L2 learner-readers by referring to categories identified in the study. Furthermore, it describes the model that adopts verbal and non-verbal metacognitive techniques that trigger these processes. | 959 | 519 | 0.001953 |
warc | 201704 | There is a growing concern over beef containing harmful pesticides, antibiotics and heavy metals being sold to the public. This disturbing information comes from a federal audit which says that the problem is caused because federal agencies have failed to set limits for the contaminants or adequately test for them. The audit by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Office of Inspector General stated that a program set up to test beef for chemical residues “is not accomplishing its mission of monitoring the food supply for … dangerous substances, which has resulted in meat with these substances being distributed in commerce.” That’s not good news for consumers and especially when you consider that the OIG’s audit says the health effects on people who eat such meat is a “growing concern.”
The testing program for cattle is being run by the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), which also tests meat for such pathogens as salmonella and certain dangerous strains of E. Coli. But there are other federal agencies involved. The residue program relies on assistance from the EPA, which sets tolerance levels for human exposure to pesticides and other pollutants, and the FDA, which does the same for antibiotics and other medicines. The audit points out that limits have not been set by the EPA and FDA “for many harmful substances, which can impair FSIS’ enforcement activities.”
The FSIS has agreed with the Inspector General on corrective actions and says it will work with the FDA and EPA to prevent residues or contaminants from entering into commerce. If that actually happens, it will be a step in the right direction. But even when the inspection service does identify a lot of beef with high levels of pesticides or antibiotics, it really doesn’t have the authority in many cases to stop the distribution of that meat. That’s because there is no legal limit for those contaminants.
Finally, it’s very clear that there is a most serious health threat to the consuming public. The Obama Administration and Congress must take all appropriate action to remedy this situation. Those GOP members of Congress who constantly harp about “too much government regulation” must get on board since the problem affects folks all over the country regardless of party affiliation. I would have to believe the beef cattle industry would welcome efforts by the federal government to correct the problem.
Source: USA Today
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warc | 201704 | In an effort to relieve overcrowding, the Washington County Board of Education voted Thursday night to close enrollment to new students who reside outside the attendance zones of Boones Creek and Jonesborough schools, but rejected a similar measure that would have closed enrollment at all schools in the district.
“We have Boones Creek Middle, which is over capacity — it runs somewhere between 102 and 105 percent capacity — and it has been for a very long time, we have Boones Creek Elementary, which is running around 92 percent capacity, and we have Jonesborough Elementary, which we think this year will be at 100 percent capacity,” Director of Schools Ron Dykes told the board. “Because Jonesborough Elementary feeds into the middle school and is essentially on the same grounds, we thought it was only logical to include as part of closed enrollment.”
To keep those schools from continuing their enrollment climb, Dykes recommended barring outside students from enrolling at those schools, adding them to the other zones that don’t allow students to cross into their zones, including Lamar, Grandview, Ridgeview and Gray.
“What we know is enrollment at Jonesborough Elementary has disproportionately risen when at Grandview, it has declined,” the director said. “There hasn’t been a massive increase in construction or of families moving into the Jonesborough zone, so what we suspect is that we’re having students coming from one of the other schools to that zone.”
But board members, concerned that the policy would split some families into two different schools, amended the proposal to include a two-year period when siblings of students already attending those schools would be allowed to enroll. After the 2014-15 school year, no students from outside the Boones Creek or Jonesborough zones will be allowed to enroll for classes.
The original proposal recommended by the Facilities Committee sought to close enrollment in all zones, including both high schools, but it failed with a 3-6 vote.
“I don’t see why we would do it at all the others and not the high schools,” said board member Todd Ganger, who was joined in supporting the total closure measure by Keith Ervin and Mary Lo Silvers. “We should do it before we have problems; we’re already close to having problems at some of the other schools.”
But BOE Vice Chair Chad Williams said the two county high schools offer different programs, which should be available to students no matter where they live.
“I know the freshman year is critical,” he said. “That time is difficult enough, and as a parent, when we were faced with that decision, my daughters chose to go to a high school that was not in our zone.
“We felt it was best for them and their success, and I’m very pleased that they had that opportunity,” Williams said.
Board member David Hammond echoed his concerns, saying the vocational classes students choose to take could shape their futures.
“The next step after high school is college or going for a job,” Hammond said. “The vocational programs at the schools do not offer the same classes, and I don’t want to lock Washington County students out of what they’ve chosen for their lives.”
According to figures recently released from the 2012-13 school year by a firm hired to create a long-range plan for the district, Boones Creek and Jonesborough elementaries are both above 100 percent of their capacities, as is Boones Creek Middle School. Jonesborough Middle School operated at 79 percent capacity last year.
At the other four schools where enrollment is already closed, student attendance ranges from 93 to 98 percent capacity, which the hire analysts said was a good functional target.
According to the data, Daniel Boone High School was at full capacity last year, which David Crockett was at 82 percent.
Fall Branch, South Central, Sulphur Springs and West View elementaries remain open for outside enrollment. | 4,076 | 1,814 | 0.000576 |
warc | 201704 | WHATSAPP CONTACT ONLY
The Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression is controlled by a polymorphic CA simple sequence repeat 1 [CA-SSR1] in intron one, and two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the promoter region (-216 G/T,-191C/A). We investigated the EGFR cell surface expression level and analyzed these genomic markers in six types of adenocarcinoma in Arabian patients. The highest expression of EGFR was observed in lung (93%) and bladder (95%) cancers. The CA-SSR1 long allele (OR=1.641, 95% CI 1.01-2.66, p=0.044) and the SNP-191C/A A allele (OR=3.87, 95% CI 1.51-9.87, p=0.004) were significantly associated with lung adenocarcinoma (LA). Haplotype analysis revealed three haplotypes within EGFR gene were significantly associated with lung and bladder cancer risk. However, after Bonferroni correction only haplotype SSR1L/-216G/-191A remained significantly associated with increased lung cancer risk (OR=4.652, 95% CI 1.47-14.71, p=0.012). This is the first observation of a significant association between genetic markers influencing EGFR expression level and the risk of developing lung cancers in Arabs. Furthermore, the molecular event that favors the selection of the long SSR1 allele in Arab lung cancer patients seems to be different from the somatic mutation that favors the selection of the short allele in the East Asian lung cancer patients.
Rosane Cavalcante Fragoso, Brasil
Jean-Marc SABATIER Chief Scientific Officer and Head of a Research Group France
IJCR is following an instant policy on rejection those received papers with plagiarism rate of
more than 20%. So, All of authors and contributors must check their papers before submission to making assurance of following our anti-plagiarism policies. | 1,753 | 948 | 0.001059 |
warc | 201704 | Hello, my name is***** am a qualified lawyer and it is my pleasure to assist you with your question today.
Hi Lisa. Do you have any record of the condition you stated the vehicle was in when you advertised it for sale?
OK, thank you. I will review the relevant information and laws and will get back to you in a short while. There is no need to wait here as you will receive an email when I have responded. Also, please do not responded to this message as it will just push your questions to the back of the queue and you may experience unnecessary delays. Thank you.
When a person buys a second-hand vehicle from a private seller, their rights will be somewhat limited and will not be as extensive as if they had bought it from a dealer. This is especially the case as the Consumer Rights Act would not apply because this is a private sale and the Act only applies when a business seller sells to a consumer.
In general, there is no legal requirement for the vehicle to be of satisfactory quality or fit for purpose. Therefore, the buyer will only have rights in the following situations:
· If the vehicle did not match the description given, whether in the advert or any subsequent discussions. This would amount to breach of contract or misrepresentation
· If the seller broke a specific contractual term – e.g. if they fail to do something they specifically agreed to, for example, fix certain faults or provide an MOT. This is also going to be a breach of contract
· If the seller was actually a dealer posing as a private seller - this is an unfair commercial practice and can even be a criminal offence
· If the vehicle is unroadworthy – this occurs if its brakes, tyres, steering or construction make it unfit for the road. This will also be a criminal offence.
So unless they can prove that any of these factors are present, which in the circumstances I cannot see, she would not have the right to force you to accept the car back and refund her.
I hope this has answered your query. I would be grateful if you could please take a second to leave a positive rating (3, 4 or 5 stars) as that is an important part of our process and recognises the time I have spent assisting you. If you need me to clarify anything before you go - please get back to me on here and I will assist further as best as I can. Thank you
Hello, I see you have read my response to your query. If this has answered your question please take a second to leave a positive rating by selecting 3, 4 or 5 stars from the top of the page. I spend a lot of time and effort answering individual queries and I am not credited for my time until you leave your rating. If you still need further help please get back to me on here and I will assist as best as I can. Many thanks.
Hi there, what they are saying is incorrect – there is certainly nothing in law that states a personal seller has to refund the buyer if they have sold them faulty goods. This is a protection the buyer only gets automatically if they bought from a business seller. As mentioned, their rights against you, as a private seller, will only apply if you had misrepresented the car. So either their solicitor has not advised them correctly, they have misinterpreted the advice or they have not taken any advice at all.
I hope this has clarified things for you, if you could please take a second to leave your rating I would be grateful. Thank you
Hello, do you need any further assistance or are you happy with the above response? Look forward to hearing from you.
You are welcome, feel free to get back to me if things go any further, but I hope they won't | 3,653 | 1,672 | 0.000607 |
warc | 201704 | You may have postponed your pregnancy several times due to a number of reasons be it career or financial situation. But your biological clock is ticking away, and it will not be wise to postpone pregnancy further.
At this stage, it will be your
wish to get pregnant faster, but things may not work out according to your plans. Many couples look for ways on how to get pregnant faster, but lack of suitable information and planning delays the event.
A suitable
planning to get pregnant fast does not involve stringent rules and restrictions barring a few cases, but a couple has to follow those regulations in a disciplined manner. Tips On How To Get Pregnant Faster
You need not spend anxious moments on
how to get pregnant faster. Just comply with the simple but useful tips and you will achieve your target. Go For A Preliminary Health Check Up Visit your doctor for a Periconception check up. This is very essential for both of you. The doctor will check your vital parameters and advise some preconception tests like sperm count, Pap smear, ovulation test and many more.
Discuss the test results with your doctor. Your doctor will be able to assess your chances to get pregnant faster. Do not hesitate to clear your doubts from your doctor.
Follow A Healthy Lifestyle
You may have deviated a lot from healthy lifestyle, but this is the right time to be back on track.
Quit smoking and drinkin g. Alcohol has adverse effects on ovulation as it lowers the estrogen level. This will prevent you to get pregnant faster. In men, alcohol seriously affects the sperm count. Smoking hampers normal blood circulation and has negative effects on ovulation and sperm quality.
Plan your work schedule and
invest some time for physical workouts. Make sure that both of you are in the best of your health during this time. You may need 2-3 months to set your lifestyle in a disciplined manner. Have Frequent Sex Enjoy lovemaking instead of treating it as a routine affair. Have frequent sex 2-3 times a week to maximize the chances of your pregnancy. Try different sex positions to avoid monotony. Check your ovulation period with the help of an ovulation kit and have sex during this period. Chances of pregnancy are very high during ovulation period. Best Sex Positions Adopt best sex positions during sex to get pregnant faster. Missionary position enables better penetration that allows the sperm to swim through the vagina for fertilization. Avoid woman on top position as there are chances of leakage of the seminal fluid. Also Read Eat Well
You should
take special care about your diet when you are planning for pregnancy. Make sure that you take enough fresh fruits and vegetables (4-5 servings per day) and include Folic acid and other vitamin supplements in your diet. A healthy diet will help you to get pregnant faster. Your doctor may advise pre-natal vitamin supplements to enhance your fertility. Increase the intake of mono-saturated fats like olive oil and canola oil and avoid trans- fats present in junk foods. Opt for vegetable proteins like beans and soya and reduce red meat intake. Include considerable amounts of low fat dairy products like toned milk, yoghurt and low-fat cheese in your diet. Maintain Your Body Weight Overweight and obesity can seriously reduce the chances of your pregnancy. A healthy diet accompanied by moderate physical workouts will help you to get pregnant faster. Researches show that overweight condition affects the estrogen level affecting ovulation.
Overweight condition can also lead to fertility problems in men.
Check your BMI and adopt physical workouts accordingly. You can carry out simple exercises and yoga postures at home without hitting the gym floor. Reduce Mental Stress Stress is a serious factor that will prevent you to get pregnant faster. Chronic stress increases cortisol secretion from the brain and reduces the secretion of feel good chemicals like serotonin that often affects the female fertility.
Some doctors are of the view that reduced stress helps in the release of proteins in the
endometrium favoring implantation. Practice meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises and other stress relaxation techniques to reduce your mental stress. | 4,229 | 1,950 | 0.000515 |
warc | 201704 | 1
Shouldn't then law school be abolished altogether? After all, no other legal system in the world requires 3 years of postgraduate schooling before one can undertake the most routine matter of client representation or courtroom advocacy. Indeed, the maverick presidential candidate Morry Taylor made a pledge to close down American law schools for 10 years, a major proposal of his quixotic campaign. Why not make the study of law an undergraduate program, or a college major followed by some sort of postgraduate apprenticeship -- this would surely be a quintessentially rationalist response to an institution that survives, and even thrives, because it fills a deep cultural need for the maintenance of some atavistic set of rituals that will obscure the inescapably troublesome and often tragic relationship between moral belief, political science and social power.
Indeed, in UK to study law you go to college, that is not after earning a bachelor's degree.
The undergraduate law degree is the most common form of entry into the legal profession, followed by a 1-year professional course and examination (the professional stage). The academic stage usually consists of an undergraduate degree which is offered in any of the 89 UK universities. Entry is decided by reference to "A-Level" points -- "A-Levels" are examinations students take in the 2 years prior to entering university and each grade is worth a different level of points. Only a few law schools interview candidates before admission and some Oxford and Cambridge Colleges also set entrance exams. There is not an LSAT or similar. The majority of programs, commonly leading to a Bachelor of Laws or a Bachelor of Arts, joint honors degree, last 3 years. The study of law at undergraduate level is, as you can see, significantly different from the US where law is a postgraduate discipline. At the end of three years students are awarded a bachelor's degree in law and they must then decide what to do next. A large proportion -- possibly around one-third -- will decide not to enter a career as a lawyer. The others must choose between becoming a barrister (essentially, a courtroom litigator) or a solicitor. Students who do not have a qualifying law degree (either because they have not studied one of the subjects listed above, or because they have read for another degree) but who nonetheless wish to enter the professions must do a one-year course called the Common Professional Examination and then they too have to choose which profession to enter.
- Solicitors
The Law Society, the professional body representing solicitors, requires those who wish to qualify to join a Legal Practice Course (LPC). If they successfully pass this they will have to obtain a Training Contract from a solicitors' firm which will provide another 2 years training, before a successful law student is finally 'admitted as a solicitor' or entered on the Roll of Solicitors. The Law Society has franchised about 10 university institutions and two private education institutions to provide the course which it supervises closely. The Legal Practice Course lasts 1 academic year. Upon successfully completing the LPC a Trainee Solicitor enters a firm and continues on-the-job-training for 2 years. This period includes formal training in advocacy.
- Barristers
The General Council of the Bar has franchised a 1-year program and examination for those wishing to become barristers. Called the Bar Vocational Course (BVC) it was introduced in 1989 to emphasise the practising skills required for court work. The course utilises practical exercises for the DRAIN competencies (Drafting, Research, Advocacy, Interviewing and Negotiation), and its early development owed much to North American experiences, especially Canada. Substantive courses in crime, common law, and taxation are taught as well as civil and criminal procedure. Upon successfully passing the Bar exams, a student can be called to the Bar by her/his Inn of Court. All those wishing to become barristers have to join one of the four Inns of Court (Gray's Inn, Inner Temple, Middle Temple or Lincoln's Inn), which basically involves paying a membership fee and eating a number of compulsory dinners. Call to the Bar however does not entitle a barrister to practice and s/he must then complete a further 12 months "pupillage" in a group of barristers' offices or "set of chambers". A pupil in the first 6 months of pupillage will be assigned to an experienced barrister. The system is intended to introduce the novice to the forms and procedures that constitute a barrister's work. During the 'second 6 months' a barrister can appear in court, but is technically still under the supervision of a more experienced barrister.
Thereafter a barrister wishing to practice on her own account must find a 'set of chambers' to join as a 'tenant'. The biggest hurdles for trainee barristers are obtaining a pupillage and finding a 'tenancy'. There is a restricted number of vacancies each year for pupils and far more students pass the exams than there are pupillages. There are still fewer tenancies available and as a consequence each year many more barristers qualify than are needed to practice in the courts. Many find employment in corporations, government, or court administration. | 5,308 | 2,472 | 0.000406 |
warc | 201704 | 2 Unique Business Ideas
Turn asparagus into cash! Here are two unique business ideas that will keep you smiling all the way to the bank!
A recent article in my local newspaper about a small asparagus farm prompted me to research this unique home based business opportunity.
I never thought much about asparagus as a home based business.
Probably because it is my least liked vegetable. But after reading the article and doing a little research I changed my mind. Asparagus offers unique business ideas worth exploring.
There are two ways to earn money from asparagus. The first is to grow a crop and sell it. The other is to build an online business around the topic of asparagus.
Unique Business Ideas #1 - Start an Asparagus Farm
Farming is the original home based business. You don't need large acreage to grow asparagus. Kathy Allen's asparagus farm in Cottage Grove is only 15 acres. That is just a hobby farm size.
Yet, she employs 15 people to help her harvest the early spring crop. Asparagus is a perennial. Plant it once, and it comes up year after year with good maintenance. Ten to fifteen years from one planting is common.
Unlike other common crops, asparagus is even less common. That is, you have less competition from large commercial growers. In Wisconsin, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, only 250 acres of asparagus is grown in the state on 225 farms.
Asparagus grows rapidly. Six inches per day is not unusual. The crop produces for two months. Only the young shoots are harvested. Kathy Allen's fifteen acres produce a crop of 600 pounds per day on average.
She sells all of her produce in her farm store and to a dozen supermarkets in the capital city. Her crop sells for $3.50 per pound. Discounts are given for large purchases.
I would create a simple website to promote this business. Every business needs a website today.
Your local customers will check your website to see when your crop is ready. They also will check for recipes and just about everything that pertains to asparagus. It is a great way to market your business.
I recommend that you use Site Build It! (new window) to build your website. You don't need to know how to create a website, you just need to love asparagus. Site Build It! takes care of the technical issues.
To learn more about growing asparagus contact the Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board. (www.asparagus.com)
Unique Business Ideas #2 - Start an Asparagus Online Business
Farming is a lot of hard work. Starting an online business using unique business ideas is much easier and it costs far less than starting a farm. The advantage to owning an online business is you don't need to hire extra help.
You can work from home anytime of the day. Your products can sell 24/7/365. Write a page once, and it can reap a profit nearly forever.
An online business requires a lot of people searching for information you can provide. Do people search online for asparagus?
I used Brainstorm It! ( new window) to find out. I was astonished when I researched this unique home based business opportunity. Over 38,000 people search for asparagus a month. I found this to be a very tight niche.
Here are just ten of some of the most popular keyword searches people use to find information on asparagus.
How to grill asparagus Grilled asparagus recipe How to cook asparagus How to grow asparagus Planting asparagus Harvesting asparagus Asparagus steamer Asparagus recipes History of asparagus How long do you grill asparagus
Do you raise asparagus in your garden? Do you know how to plant and harvest asparagus? Do you know how to grill or cook asparagus? Do you have asparagus recipes? If you do, you know enough to write an informational website about this topic.
Thousands of people search for different topics on asparagus. The good news is this is a niche that doesn't have a lot of competition.
When you write numerous articles about asparagus around the keywords Brainstorm It! identifies as "solid potential", you will generate free organic traffic from the search engines.
Only after you have traffic can you monetize your website.
How To Monetize Your Asparagus Website
Can you make money online with an asparagus website? I believe it is possible. Many people want to know how to grow the crop. Many more want to know how to cook this vegetable. If you sell products related to what people want, you can earn money online.
The most profitable products I would expect would be your own. If you can compile a recipe cook book or a "How To Grow Asparagus" ebook, you get to keep all the profits. Sell your ebook through ClickBank.com.
ClickBank also gives you the opportunity to sell your eBook through affiliates. How would you like to have other people selling your ebook for you? Offer a commission, say 50%, and watch your profits grow.
ClickBank can handle your commissions to your affiliates with ease. That is their business.
Google Adsense offers you a way to earn money from your website. Just place Google ads on your website. Every time someone clicks an ad, you get paid! It is the easiest way to earn money online.
You can also earn money from your website through affiliate marketing. Making money selling other people's products online is a popular income source. For instance, you could join Amazon's affiliate program.
Every time someone looks for an asparagus steamer, you could refer your website visitor to Amazon. If they buy an asparagus steamer or a book about asparagus through your link, you earn a commission. Simple!
You can build a website on any cheap web host. But if you want to rank in the top 3% of all websites in the world for free traffic, only Site Build It! delivers.
Compare Site Build It! (new window) to the other cheap web hosts. I wish I would have bought Site Build It! sooner. I wasted about seven years on another web host. Now my first SBI website ranks in the top 1% in only one year.
Well I hope my article on asparagus unique business ideas gives you the encouragement to start your own asparagus business. The potential is there. Go get it!
Return from
Unique Business Ideas to Cash Crop Farming.
Return from
Unique Business Ideas to Legitimate Home Business. | 6,218 | 2,669 | 0.000378 |
warc | 201704 | On February 25, 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court held in N.
Carolina State Bd. of Dental Examiners v. FTC, No. 13-534, -- U.S. -- , 2015 WL 773331, that state-created professional boards controlled by “active market participants” must be “actively supervised” by the State in order to receive immunity from the antitrust laws. While clarifying somewhat the scope of so-called “ Parker immunity,” the decision leaves largely unresolved what constitutes “active supervision” from a State. Nevertheless, the ruling may prompt States to revisit how they organize professional boards in an effort to shield them from antitrust scrutiny. Background – Competition For Pearly White Smiles
North Carolina regulates dentistry through its State Board of Dental Examiners (“Board”), which promulgates rules governing the profession. The Board consists of eight members, six of which must be dentists elected by other dentists throughout the State. In the early 2000’s, nondentists began performing teeth whitening procedures, which previously only dentists performed at much higher prices. Slip op. at 2-3. Dentists soon complained to the Board. In response (and eschewing its rulemaking authority), the Board sent dozens of “cease and desist” letters to the nondentists, claiming that teeth whitening was part of the practice of dentistry and warning of criminal penalties for practicing dentistry without a license. Due to those and other actions by the Board, teeth whitening by nondentists became nonexistent in North Carolina.
In 2010, the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) challenged the Board’s actions as anticompetitive under the FTC Act, 15 U.S.C. § 45. The FTC prevailed in an administrative trial and in an appeal before the Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. In both instances, the Board unsuccessfully asserted that its conduct was protected by state-action immunity.
Parker Immunity
Like the rulings below, the Supreme Court rejected the Board’s immunity argument. It reiterated the longstanding principle – first articulated in
Parker v. Brown, 317 U.S. 341 (1943), and rooted in federalism concerns – that States’ anticompetitive conduct is immune from antitrust review when done in a sovereign capacity. Under Parker and its progeny, antitrust immunity is also available to private actors if the conduct: (1) was part of a “clearly articulated and affirmatively expressed” state policy, and (2) was “actively supervised” by the State with “procedures that suffice to make it the State’s own.” Slip op. at 6, 8-9 (citing Cal. Retail Liquor Dealers Assn. v. Midcal Aluminum, Inc., 445 U.S. 97, 105 (1980)).
The Board claimed that, as a State agency, it was not required to demonstrate active supervision because it was a state actor, not a private organization. Slip op. at 6, 12-13. The Board also argued that this more stringent test for state-action immunity for a state board comprised of market participants with technical expertise would deter “dedicated citizens” from serving on state agencies that regulate their field.
The Court found the Board’s arguments unpersuasive. First, the Court held that state supervision was necessary because, even though the Board was nominally a state actor, “[s]tate agencies controlled by active market participants, who possess singularly strong private interests, pose the very risk of selfdealing [the] supervision requirement was created to address.” Slip op. at 13. Because the Board did not argue that its conduct was actively supervised by the State, the Court concluded that the Board was not entitled to immunity under the antitrust laws. Slip op. at 17. The Court was also not persuaded that affirming the FTC’s decision would “discourage dedicated citizens from serving on state agencies that regulate their own occupation” given the “long tradition of citizens . . . devoting time, energy, and talent to enhancing the dignity of their calling.” Slip op. at 14-15. The Supreme Court left for another day “whether agency official, including board members, may, under some circumstances, enjoy immunity from damages liability” and added that States could defend and indemnify agency members in the event of litigation. Slip op. at 14-16.
Unresolved Issues and Justice Alito’s Dissent
Importantly, the total lack of State oversight of the Board prevented the majority from offering much concrete guidance on what kind or degree of active supervision is necessary for
Parker immunity to apply. The Court merely indicated that state supervision “need not entail day-to-day involvement” in an agency’s affairs, but must provide substantive review of the allegedly anticompetitive conduct. Slip op. at 17. Additionally, the “supervisor” must have the ability to veto or modify the decision and cannot itself be an active market participant.
Consequently, significant uncertainty remains. As Justice Alito’s dissent observed, States might see fit to alter the composition of professional boards in response to the Court’s decision, yet lack clear guidance on what changes would actually secure
Parker immunity. For instance, the Court’s opinion failed to illuminate basic concepts, such as who counts as an “active market participant,” how to define the “market” in which they participate, and what constitutes “a controlling number” of market participants to invoke the active state supervision requirement. Dissenting slip op. at 11-12 (Alito, J., dissenting). Who or what qualifies as a “supervisor” of a board’s or agency’s decisions is equally unclear from the Court’s opinion.
In sum, while deciding the issue before it, the Supreme Court’s opinion provides little guidance to market participants serving on state professional boards. The uncertainty that remains may arm private antitrust plaintiffs with an opening to challenge actions by state-created entities. While States likely will scramble to bring their agencies and boards under their active supervision, they will be forced to wrestle with how to interpret the Supreme Court’s decision, which “will depend on all the circumstances of a case.” Slip op. at 18. | 6,418 | 2,862 | 0.000369 |
warc | 201704 | On 24 March 2016, the China Ministry of Finance, together with the General Administration of Customs and the State Administration of Taxation, announced in a new circular, Cai Guan Shui [2016] No.18 (New Circular), that a raise of taxes on cross-border e-commerce retail imports would become effective from 8 April 2016. This announcement has been reported by some media outlets as "the action terminating the preferential tax treatments for crossborder e-commerce retail import" and "the end of happy tax holiday for cross-border ecommerce retail import".
While most cross-border e-commerce service providers remain optimistic and positive about the market and tax environment, it is without question that this change will have a substantial impact on Chinese individuals purchasing from overseas retailers through e-commerce, and that some cross-border e-commerce service providers may suffer.
The background
Development of cross-border e-commerce has been phenomenal in China in the past few years. According to the Information Website of the China State Council DevelopmentResearch Center, the value of cross-border e-commerce transactions reached RMB 4,200 billion (or USD 650 billion) in 2014 and is continuously growing. As part of this vibrant cross-border e-commerce economy, millions of Chinese individuals are buying numerous items directly from overseas retailers through e-commerce service providers in China. This is generally referred to as Cross-border E-commerce Retail Import (CERI).
There are various different CERI operation models depending on the locations of e-commerce service providers, the way the commodities are reported for customs clearance, and whether bonded warehouses are used. From a customs duty and tax point of view, all of the imported items should fall within one of the following two scenarios.
If the item is identified as imported for general trade, it should be subject to customs duty, import VAT and consumption tax (if applicable) (the Standard Import Tax Treatment), or If the item is identified as a personal postal item, then it may enjoy a favourable composite rate (the Postal Composite Rate or PCR) instead of the Standard Import Tax Treatment, and may also enjoy an exemption if the composite tax amount is less than RMB 50.
There has been a lot of public debate as to whether CERI commodities may enjoy the PCR (on the basis that the importation is initiated by an individuals' purchasing behaviour), or should be subject to the Standard Import Tax Treatment (given that the amount of importation can be huge and the e-commerce service providers may build up bonded inventory as if it is a general trade). In mid-2014, China customs issued Announcement No. 56, confirming that CERI items may enjoy PCR treatment, on the condition that the e-commerce service provider's platform was connected with the customs system, and they were able to report consistent transactions, payments and logistics information. This is considered a major incentive for CERI and has greatly boosted the increase of e-commerce service providers in the market.
Increase of tax costs for CERI
Before the New Circular, CERI enjoyed the following PCR designed for personal postal items, which were generally lower than the tax rates applicable to general trade.
Click here to view table.
Exemption for low-value items: Exemption will be provided if the composite tax calculated based on the applicable PCR is less than RMB 50.
According to the New Circular and starting from 8 April 2016, CERI will be treated as general trade, and be subject to customs duty, import VAT and consumption tax (if applicable) based on the retail price but with a quota based exemption and reduction.
Click here to view table.
Take cosmetics as an example and assume that the net retail price (inclusive of insurance and freight) a cosmetic is RMB 500, a comparison of the tax costs will be as follows:
Total tax cost before the New Circular will be [RMB 500 x PCR 50%] = RMB 250 Total tax cost after the New Circular (with a transaction value lower than RMB 2,000 and within the annual quota of RMB 20,000) will be RMB 258.5 including: Custom Duty = RMB 500 x (1+10%) x 0% = RMB 0 Consumption Tax = RMB 500 x (1+10%) /(1-30%) x 21% = RMB 165 Import VAT = RMB 500 x (1+10%) /(1-30%) x 11.9% = RMB 93.5 Total tax cost after the New Circular (when the individual buyer's accumulated purchase has exceeded the annual quota of RMB 20,000) will be RMB 419.6 including: Custom Duty = RMB 500 x (1+10%) x 10% = RMB 50 Consumption Tax = RMB 500 x (1+10%) /(1-30%) x 30 % = RMB 236 Import VAT = RMB 500 x (1+10%) /(1-30%) x 17% = RMB 133.6
Base on the above comparison, the increase in the tax cost for CERI cosmetics will be limited if a transaction is below RMB 2,000 and within the annual quota of RMB 20,000. However, the increase could be very significant once the transaction value goes above RMB 2,000 or exceed the annual quota for individual buyers. If an e-commerce service provider is dealing with expensive or luxury items and wants to maintain their competitive edge, they will have to either negotiate lower retail prices with the overseas retailers, or find a way to absorb the additional tax costs. Individual customers on the other hand may find the retail prices of luxury items on cross-border e-commerce websites less attractive than before.
It is worth mentioning that the increase in tax costs is largely attributable to the consumption tax, which is applicable to cosmetics, alcohol, cigarettes, golfing equipment and some other particular items. For non-consumption tax items, such as books, computers, toys, textiles and garments, the tax increase may not be as dramatic as for cosmetics and other consumption tax items, even if when the transaction value is above RMB 2,000 or when the individual buyer's accumulated purchase has exceeded the annual quota. In other words, the increase in tax costs would not be universal for all CERI items. The New Circular will discourage individuals from purchasing cosmetics, golf equipment and luxury items that are subject to consumption tax, but may not necessarily supress purchasing of non-consumption tax items.
Parallel adjustment of PCR
It should be noted that in parallel with the New Circular, a notice was issued by the State Council Custom Duty Commission to adjust the PCR. As shown in the table below, the PCR will be raised to either 15%, 30% and 60% starting from 8 April 2016.
Click here to view table.
This raise in the PCR, will to some extent, reduce the tax cost difference between personal postal items and CERI items. However, as the tax cost of personal postal items would still be significantly lower than that for CERI items, a lot of CERI items may be disguised as personal postal items for importation. In this regard, it would not be surprising that China customs authority also release new rules in the near future for identification of real personal postal items. | 6,983 | 2,783 | 0.000361 |
warc | 201704 | Sadly it is not uncommon for the onset of a disability to lead to relationship strain and occasionally breakdown. In this instance, a disabled spouse will be seeking a financial settlements/claims on divorce (this is the legal term for the financial relief which follows from a divorce petition). However, if you receive a payment from your spouse will this affect your right to access financial support for your care?
The use of a discretionary trust can be an effective method of preserving a beneficiary’s entitlement to social care or financial support. However, putting the proceeds of ancillary relief into a discretionary trust will need the court order finalising the settlement to provide for this.
In deciding whether to do this the court will undertake a balancing exercise as to whether it is an appropriate use of the court’s discretion. As a general rule, the courts are not sympathetic to schemes which increase the burden on public funds, however in the case of a disabled divorcee, there are often some compelling arguments to do so. Such as:
The court is not being asked to sanction a deprivation of assets as at no time did the beneficiary own the assets which are being transferred If the court were not to make such an award the NET effect would benefit the Local Authority and not the beneficiary which arguably does not give effect to the factors in s25 Matrimonial Causes Act 1973.
In response, a Local Authority may try and argue that an order in such terms would amount to a deprivation of resources. They might try to argue that the spouse had a right to their partner’s assets and this has been diverted to a trust in order to avoid paying care fees.
This is arguably wrong as at no time in ancillary relief proceedings does a spouse have a right to their partner’s assets. There is no legal right to those assets at all. A maintenance or a property order is a discretionary equitable remedy of the courts. An approval of such a remedy on the basis of a transfer directly into a trust arguably means that the vulnerable beneficiary never gains any legal right to that asset.
This is an area of law that we do not believe has been tested by local authorities. Indeed in practice, it is rare for arrangements such as this to come to their attention. Many do however argue that such an approach is justified. Although success can not be guaranteed, some feel that the risks of having to pay the money back are justifiable. However, as those holding the money might be held liable to pay monies back, legal advice should be sought prior to entering into such arrangements. | 2,624 | 1,237 | 0.000817 |
warc | 201704 | Peace with God
- Romans 5:1–11
“Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace” (vv. 1–2)
It has been said that the greatest commentary ever written on Paul’s epistle to the Galatians is his letter to the Romans, which was composed some eight to ten years after Galatians. Certainly this is an appropriate description of the book of Romans, for many of the themes Paul takes up in Galatians — the purpose of the Law, the doctrine of justification, and Christian liberty — are also dealt with in Romans, often in a more comprehensive manner. So that we might more accurately interpret the book of Galatians we will be taking a short break from the letter to look at some of the main themes of Paul’s epistle to the Romans using
Highlights from Romans, a teaching series by Dr. R.C. Sproul.
Our studies in Galatians have dealt at length with justification by faith alone, the imputation of Christ’s perfect righteousness, and the atonement, so we will not spend much time on the development of these topics in Romans 1–4. After establishing the universal sinfulness of mankind (1:18–3:20), Paul discusses the righteousness from God available to us on account of the work of Jesus (3:21–31). Then, like he does in Galatians 3, the apostle looks to Abraham as the example par excellence of the one who gains a right standing in our Creator’s eyes through trusting His promises, which promises are kept in Christ (chap. 4).
Justification brings with it the benefit of “peace with God,” and Paul looks at this peace in Romans 5:1–11. In our day, peace with God is not valued, largely because few people in our culture believe that the Almighty would ever not be at peace with them. What has been lost is the idea that all sinners are at enmity with God, a teaching that is found throughout Scripture (Gen. 3:22–24; Ps. 11:5; Col. 1:21). Whether it is felt or not, all people outside of Christ are at war with their Creator, but we who have been made to know our estrangement and have found reconciliation through trusting in Jesus know the joy that comes from being at peace with God through His Son.
Peace with God is not a truce that is broken at the slightest provocation. Our sin grieves the Lord (Eph. 4:30), but He will never again take up the sword of His eternal wrath against those with whom He is at peace (Ezek. 37:26).
Coram Deo
In the new covenant era, Isaiah 52:7 is fulfilled in the work of God’s people as they publish news of peace with Him across the world (Rom. 10:15). All of us who have found peace with God through His Son Jesus Christ should be ready to announce the way of God’s peace to the people around us. Are you prepared to show from Scripture that all men outside of Jesus are at enmity with the Creator and that peace can be found only in Jesus?
Passages for Further Study
Numbers 6:22–27
Psalm 85:8 Isaiah 26:3 John 14:27 For permissions, please see our Copyright Policy. | 3,135 | 1,581 | 0.000656 |
warc | 201704 | Rumors abound about foods that boost your metabolic rate to make weight loss easier. Although vegetables are key foods for weight management and good health, the vast majority won't provide you with any kind of metabolic uptick. No vegetable is a replacement for cardio exercise, strength training and an overall healthy eating plan.
The Sum of Your Metabolism
Your metabolism is a complicated system that's influenced by your genes and environment. It's a sum of all the processes your body accomplishes to give you energy from the calories in food. A high metabolism allows you to eat more without gaining weight.
Approximately 60 percent of your metabolic rate consists of your resting metabolism, or RMR, the energy you use to simply exist. If you laid in bed all day, you'd still burn these calories to breathe, pump blood and perform other bodily functions that keep you alive. Up to another 30 percent of your metabolism comes from physical activity, such as walking to your car in the parking lot, washing dishes and running on the treadmill. The final 10 percent of your metabolism comes from the thermic effect of food -- the calories burned digesting and absorbing nutrients from the foods you eat. How Vegetables Can Affect Your Metabolism
Vegetables are a valuable part of any weight-loss program, partly because you can eat large servings without overshooting your calorie needs. Their high fiber content helps slow digestion so you feel full for longer, and they provide vitamins and minerals that play essential roles in your normal metabolic processes.
Other substances have proven thermogenic, or metabolic boosting, properties -- including green tea and caffeine -- when consumed in adequate amounts and under optimal conditions. However, only one kind of vegetable -- hot peppers -- have a proven calorie-boosting effect on your metabolism. Hot peppers containing a large amount of capsaicin may have an effect on your metabolic rate, reports a review of the research published in a 2010 issue of the International Journal of Obesity. Capsaicin, which naturally occurs in chili peppers, provides the quality that makes your mouth burn when you eat them. This compound may slightly elevate your resting metabolic rate and fat-burning ability, but only for a short period of time. How much of the peppers you need to consume to get an effect that notably affects calorie-burn rate is unclear, however. Capsaicin May Give a Small Metabolic Boost
When you cut calories to lose weight, your resting metabolic rate naturally slows down to conserve energy because your body senses that it may be facing a food shortage. This is especially true if you don't exercise. However, people who consumed capsaicin at every meal while on a low-calorie diet did not experience a metabolic slowdown, showed a study published in PLOS One in 2013. The researchers concluded that the capsaicin offset the natural tendency of the body to compensate for fewer calories, enabling weight loss.
If you've cut calories to lose weight, consider adding chili peppers to salads, stews, braises, soups and salsas. The peppers add almost no calories, but they could help keep your metabolism stoked so weight loss comes a little quicker. Most Effective Metabolic Boosts
If you're not a hot pepper fan, or prefer not to eat them often, you can boost your metabolism by exercising. Add muscle through strength training, for example. Muscle is a more metabolically-active tissue and requires a greater number of calories to support all day long. When you regularly strength train and change the ratio of lean mass to fat on your body, you naturally boost your metabolic rate.
Simply moving more during the day also revs the physical activity portion of your metabolism. Add 10 minutes to your exercise session, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or pace while talking on the phone. If you weigh 150 pounds, for example, just get up and dance to your favorite song for 15 minutes, and you'll burn about 100 calories. These small additions of movement add up and can help you burn a few hundred extra calories throughout your day. | 4,130 | 1,954 | 0.000513 |
warc | 201704 | Frequently Asked Questions Cabin Air
Why do people need cabin air filters?
Think of them as an air filter that cleans air before it enters the cab's interior through the heating, air conditioning or fresh air systems. The filters remove allergens and pollutants before they get into the cab and before the driver and passengers can inhale them. Roadside air contains significant numbers of contaminants such as pollen, dust, diesel soot, and smog, and the contaminants are two to six times more concentrated inside the cab than outside.
Does the filter help allergy sufferers?
Yes. The filter traps virtually all pollen and dust particles that may cause allergic reactions. Such particles are generally 7 to 100 microns in diameter. A dot made with a sharp pencil is huge at 200 microns. The filters greatly reduce the amount of dust and pollutants entering the cab, so inside glass, dashboards, heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems do tend to stay cleaner.
How does the filter work?
What happens if the filter is not changed?
Air will still flow into the passenger cabin through the heating, air conditioning and fresh air systems. Once the filter media is saturated with contaminants, however, the pollutants and allergens may start entering the passenger cabin as well.
How effective are Luber-finer
®cabin air filters?
Luber-finer
®heavy-duty cabin air filters meet, and more often exceed, original equipment requirements for fit, function and performance. These filters are extremely efficient. They remove up to 99.5% of allergen contaminants from outside air. | 1,602 | 806 | 0.001259 |
warc | 201704 | The email marketing holiday season was a wild ride -- one that looked considerably different from past years and will surely set the tone for the 2012 holiday season. Here are some of the highlights that made this holiday season remarkable: Retailers relied more on email marketing during the holiday season, especially early and late. Email volume continued to increase at above average rates during the holiday season, growing 20% during November and December compared to the same time period in 2010. Retailers once again extended Black Friday pricing and deals into early November as part of much better branded “Black November†campaigns. And email volume remained at or near the all-time high for three of the four weeks leading up to Christmas Day. Thanksgiving Day is the new kickoff of the holiday shopping season. In 2011, 75% of major retailers sent at least one promotional email to their subscribers on Thanksgiving Day, making it the No. 3 email marketing day of the year behind Cyber Monday (No. 1) and Black Friday (No. 2). That was up from only 60% in 2010 and just 45% in 2009. This ncrease supported a huge leap in online sales, which rose 39.3% compared to Thanksgiving Day 2010, according to Coremetrics. Big-box retailers opening their stores on Thanksgiving very quickly turned it into a highly promotional and hotly contested shopping day. This shift has been further catalyzed by the rapid adoption of smartphones and tablets, which has made it much easier for consumers to shop after feasting at grandma’s house. While some may bemoan the creep of commercialism into this family holiday, there's no putting the genie back in the bottle at this point. Express shipping went mainstream on “Last Sleigh Day.†Retailers dramatically increased their messaging around express delivery in 2011, with email volume spiking on Dec. 21 when 74% of retailers sent at least one promotional email to their subscribers. That made it the fourth busiest email marketing day of the year, ahead of Green Monday (No. 5), the day after Christmas (No. 9), and Free Shipping Day (No. 13). Retailers sent a very clear message in 2011 that the end of guaranteed Christmas delivery with standard shipping was no longer the end of the online holiday shopping season. With many retailers offering free or discounted express delivery options, they appeared to be setting up Dec. 21 as a “Last Sleigh Day†for Christmas delivery. Free shipping is now the norm for the holiday season. Fifty-five percent of major online retailers offered free shipping all holiday season long. Half of those retailers have adopted an “Every Day Free Shipping†policy, while the other half offered free shipping just for the holiday season. The remaining 45% of retailers offered free shipping for limited periods of time, offered it to just a narrow selection, or didn’t offer it. Free shipping is the most popular and effective online promotional offer, with consumers consistently valuing it more than it costs retailers to provide it. That’s why we’re seeing more and more retailers move to an “Every Day Free Shipping†policy, which is in turn forcing other retailers to keep up by offering free shipping more often, including for the duration of the critical holiday season. It’s also driving more retailers to offer free shipping with no minimum purchase, which a significant number of retailers did on Free Shipping Day, and to offer free return shipping, which is a small but growing trend. Cyber Monday remains uncontested holiday champ. A massive 87% of major retailers sent at least one promotional email to their subscribers on Cyber Monday, making it the biggest email marketing day ever and the biggest day of the year for the fifth consecutive year. That was up from 77% in 2010. Companies clearly recognized the value and importance of the email channel during the holiday season. My hope is that this recognition translates into the additional investments necessary to tackle the new challenges and seize the new opportunities that face email marketers in 2012. source: MediaPost | 4,301 | 1,850 | 0.000567 |
warc | 201704 | New Delhi (PTI): Smart City plans for 15 cities spread across six states and the Union Territory of Puducherry were today submitted to the Urban Development Ministry.
Rajasthan, which became the first state to submit Smart City plans, has proposed total investment of Rs 6,457 crore over the next five years for developing Ajmer, Jaipur, Kota and Udaipur as Smart Cities.
The other states which submitted their Smart City plans today were West Bengal, Kerala, Punjab, Jharkhand and Karnataka.
While Punjab submitted a Smart City plan for Jalandhar, Jharkhand did so for Ranchi while Kerala handed in the proposal for Kochi. Bengal has submitted plans for New Town Kolkata, Bidhannagar and Durgapur. Karnataka submitted Smart City proposals for Davanagere, Tumakuru, Hubli-Dharwad and Shimoga.
Puducherry, meanwhile, submitted its proposal for Oulgaret. Tomorrow is the last date for submission of Smart City proposals to the Urban Development Ministry.
A total of 98 cities have been included in the Smart City Mission which have a cumulative population of about 13 crore and together account for 35 per cent of the urban population in the country.
Further, underlining the Smart City scheme’s emphasis on citizen participation, 1.81 crore people in the mission cities — which accounts for 14 per cent of the urban population in these cities and is statistically considered to be good — contributed to the preparation of the smart city proposals.
MyGov.in has been widely used for promoting citizen participation with about 25 lakh citizens contributing to the formulation of proposals.
Upon receipt of all the Smart City Proposals, expected by tomorrow, the UD Ministry will set in motion the second stage of ‘City Challenge Competition’.
Under this, proposals will be evaluated on the basis of Implementation Framework (30 per cent weightage), result orientation (20 pc), citizen participation (16 pc), smartness of Pan City Solutions (10 pc), Strategy based on SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) analysis of city (10 pc), City vision and goals (5 pc), Quality of city profiling, including identification of Key Performance Indicators (5 pc) and processes followed (4 pc). | 2,231 | 1,114 | 0.000912 |
warc | 201704 | Gemesis Man Made Diamonds
Diamonds are the hardest substance occurring naturally on Earth. Their luster and brilliance and durability have long been a staple of the jewelry industry, but they also have applications in technology. Scientist and researchers have been attempting to “grow” diamonds for these uses for decades. One of the newest and most recent successes to hit the market are Gemesis man made diamonds.
The creation of synthetic diamonds requires one of two processes: high pressure, high temperature (HPHT); or chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Apollo Diamonds, a competitor of Gemesis produces synthetic diamonds via CVD. The Gemesis Corporation, a privately-held company founded by Carter Clarke uses HPHT.
While visiting Moscow in 1995 someone asked retired Army General and West Point graduate Carter Clarke if he wanted to buy a diamond making machine. Three months later he returned to Moscow with scientist Reza Abbaschian, and brought 3 of the machines and 3 Russian scientists back with him to company headquarters in Sarasota, Florida. After 7 years of research and development in cooperation with experts from the University of Florida, Gemesis brought high quality diamonds onto the market.
Like most of the synthetic diamond creations, the process was first intended to assist technology by finding an economical diamond substitute. Gemesis man made diamonds are created using proprietary former Soviet technology originally intended for strategic semi-conductor electronics, the type that are less susceptible to the electromagnetic pulse of nuclear blasts.
Now, instead of creating weapons, the process is used to synthesize gemstones. Carbon, in graphite form, is mixed with metal in a cylinder with a tiny seed diamond at the bottom. Both are then subjected to extreme pressure of 5.9MPa (mega pascals) at a temperature of 3000 °F (1600 °Celsius) for four days. During this period, the carbon melts and crystallizes on top of the seed diamond.
Upon cooling, a three carat (600 mg) bright yellow, gem-quality diamond is produced inside the end of the resolidified cylinder. A mild acid is used to dissolve the cylinder to allow extraction of the diamond crystal. Gemesis man made diamonds of various colors can be produced using this method, simply by adding or eliminating certain impurities under controlled conditions.
Since nitrogen is abundant in the atmosphere, yellow diamonds are more likely to be produced than any other color. An irony, because natural yellow diamonds are more rare and therefore higher in value, than white (colorless) diamonds. For example, one-carat yellow diamond from nature costs about $20,000 and a man-made one costs about $6,000.
As the company grows and launches into a much broader campaign, Gemesis man made diamonds are created in several hundred machines. While those diamonds are melting and crystallizing, Gemesis is taking a look at something new: pink and blue diamonds. Why? Because pink and blue diamonds are like the proverbial needle in a haystack of rarity in the world of gemstones.
By mass producing Gemesis man made diamonds in a color that is extremely rare in nature, Gemesis would become an economical source of a rarity. The company soon hopes to create that perfect hue of pink and to bring them out commercially.
Until mid-2005, Gemesis cut and polished its own stones, and even designed some of its own jewelry. Now, Gemesis man made diamonds are being shipped as rough stones to several self-supporting jewelry-making and diamond-trading partners. They process the rough and then design and market jewelry lines.
As beautiful as Gemesis man made diamonds, are they aren’t pure enough for the technology world. They have, however, made quite an impact on the gemstone market, and will probably continue to do so, as long as they are of high quality. Their competitors, certainly, will be watching them, as will the diamond buying consumer.
Return to Man Made Diamond Information Home. | 4,013 | 1,943 | 0.00052 |
warc | 201704 | TEXT OF STORY Kai Ryssdal: U.S. and African trade officials are meeting today in Ghana. They're reviewing a trade deal called the African Growth and Opportunity Act. The basic idea was to get rid of U.S. tariffs on goods manufactured in sub-Saharan Africa, and so expand the market for products that desperately need a market.
Trouble is, it wasn't just sub-Saharan countries that negotiators should have been thinking about when they wrote it. From South Africa, Gretchen Wilson reports.
Gretchen Wilson: At the Peak Trade clothing factory here in Newcastle, 200 women are piecing together T-shirts — 70 per hour each. Talking's generally forbidden.
I'm looking for Thabile Dahile. You'd think finding a grey-haired, aging woman here it'd be easy to spot. But there are so many older women here, I can't see her. She's asked me not to approach her if I do, because she's afraid she'll lose her job.
If you listen closely, you'll understand what many workers here see as part of the problem. The machinists and ironers here are Zulu women. But the owners aren't South African. They're from Shanghai.
In Newcastle, many men are unemployed, or have left for jobs in other towns as miners or truckers. So those working in the factories are all women. Most are their family's only breadwinners, and about a third, like Dahile, are grannies who traditionally would be home with the family.
Dahile earns 44 cents an hour — less than half the minimum wage, which is rarely enforced here.
Thabile Dahile (voice of interpreter):It's so little what we earn, I can't even build myself a house. Even groceries, when I get paid I can only afford corn meal, and with what's left over, I can't buy meat or vegetables to go with it. Our wages are not enough.
At night, Dahile returns to the two-room shack she shares with her daughter and granddaughter. She wants electricity and plumbing. But as she sweeps the plastic sheet that covers her dirt floor, she says factory owners take advantage of young and old South Africans alike.
Dahile:The management is not treating us well. Sometimes, they don't count your work properly. They don't count all of it. So they can rob you.
Still, with so few jobs here, she has no other choice.
Dozens of Chinese factories set up shop in Newcastle after 2000. That's when U.S. Congress passed AGOA. It's another example of how Chinese firms have capitalized on U.S. trade incentives elsewhere. China's now making cars in Mexico that come to the U.S. tax-free.
In 2005, the world scrapped a quota system that protected clothing producers. That meant African companies had to compete directly with Chinese firms. Predictably, China got the upper hand.
Still, Newcastle keeps trying to woo foreign companies. Economic development director Ferdie Alberts:
Ferdie Alberts:Irrespective of the bad publicity and some trade by them not complying with labor legislation, we are grateful for what they have done for our local economy.
It could be worse. Actually, it is. Twenty-five-year-old Fikile Buthulezi says she can't afford to buy the clothes she makes. They're sold at local department stores.
Fikile Buthulezi (voice of interpreter):Sometimes, it hurts to see someone wearing a T-shirt that you know was difficult to make. Your boss was over you, shouting at you, and the person wearing it now is walking down the street enjoying herself. But at the same time, it's nice to see something my hands have made.
[Sound of Street hawker selling merchandise]
Friday's pay day at Newcastle's factories. Women file out of the gate and into the street. It's crowded with hawkers selling clothing pulled from plastic bags — jeans for $8, sweaters for $1.50. There's loads of it. And yep, you guessed it: it's all imported — from China.
In Newcastle, South Africa, I'm Gretchen Wilson for Marketplace. | 3,850 | 1,991 | 0.000508 |
warc | 201704 | Dental implants are changing the way people live. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth.
Over a period of time, the jawbone associated with missing teeth atrophies or is reabsorbed.
By the age of 18, the average adult has 32 teeth; 16 teeth on the top and 16 teeth on the bottom. | 358 | 246 | 0.004111 |
warc | 201704 | Red wine has been shown to protect against cardiovascular disease and cancer, lower cholesterol, strengthen bones, help control blood sugar levels, and increase energy production. Now, more than a decade of research points to the possibility that red wine is also anti-aging.
Resveratrol, a polyphenolic compound found in red wine, has been in the spotlight of the longevity studies. How did scientists make the connection between longevity and resveratrol?
Clive M. McCay, a nutritional scientist at Cornell University in the 1930s, discovered that a calorie restricted diet enabled animals to live longer. Other scientists have confirmed that calorie restriction is an effective way of extending the life span of lab animals. Studies with humans are more difficult to monitor, but there have been some noteworthy reports that are consistent with the findings of the animal studies; calorie restriction increases life span and reduces age-related diseases.
The red wine connection lies in the mechanism by which calorie restriction affects cellular activity. Certain genes, called sirtuins, are activated when a person takes in about 40 percent less calories than generally recommended. These genes are responsible for the longevity factor of calorie-restricted diets.
Is there another way to activate these longevity genes without restricting calories? In 2003 David Sinclair, MD, at Harvard Medical School, found a way to duplicate the benefits of a calorie restricted diet by using resveratrol found in red wine. By producing the same effects as the calorie restricted conditions that activate the sirtuins, resveratrol could lead to greater longevity and better health.
With hundreds of studies showing evidence that red wine in moderation is beneficial to our health and can add years to our life, why not have a glass with dinner? Enjoy! | 1,851 | 931 | 0.001078 |
warc | 201704 | HARRISBURG — Barry Schoch won't gloat.
He's too professional. Too serious about his life's work as an engineer. Too proud of the men and women he directs as secretary of the state Department of Transportation.
But Schoch would have every right to scream from the highest bridge in Pennsylvania: Told you so.
Schoch was the catalyst of arguably Gov. Tom Corbett's biggest, most important legislative victory: the November 2013 passage of the largest road, bridge and mass transit spending law the state has adopted in nearly two decades.
The $2.4 billion transportation funding package, known as Act 89, went into effect Jan. 1. It was expected to raise transportation spending up to 39 percent over the current $6.1 billion by 2017-18.
In 2014, the bill's impact on motorists and taxpayers has gone exactly — and in some cases better— than Schoch had predicted in speeches while crisscrossing the state to garner public support and in private talks with reluctant lawmakers.
Schoch promised skeptics that PennDOT could manage the influx of taxpayer money to fix more roads and bridges.
"We are not only on schedule, we are ahead of schedule," he said in an interview.
PennDOT had estimated Act 89 would allow the agency to spend an additional $800 million in the first 18 months. PennDOT figured it could pay for 200 additional projects totaling nearly 1,600 miles of road improvements and 83 bridges.
The law has brought in $1.5 billion in the same time, enabling the state to repave and resurface 221 roads, spanning 1,696 miles, by November, PennDOT records show. That includes 20 road projects and more than 199 miles in the district that covers the Lehigh Valley, Poconos and Berks County.
Those figures do not include additional road projects scheduled to be bid in the fall, with construction in 2015.
PennDOT is on track with its bridge work, too, under a pilot program that allows bidding several bridges under one contract. The bundling program saves costs on supplies and design work, Schoch said.
The only bridge being replaced in the Lehigh Valley area is the 84-year-old Second Street bridge over Cold Spring Creek in Whitehall Township. It costs $3.8 million.
But in coming years, the Valley area's bridge jobs will pick up. Act 89 is allowing PennDOT to restart long-mothballed expansion plans such as the widening of Route 22 and improving the Fahy Bridge over the Lehigh River in Bethlehem.
"Without Act 89, none of that would happen," said Becky A. Bradley, executive director of the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission. "Put some lines under that [statement], bold it or put it in flashing lights. It is that important, Act 89."
An additional $207 million in Act 89 funds will be distributed to mass transit agencies by the end of the year, PennDOT records show.
The Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority is leveraging the new state money with federal money to buy three buses and 15 vans for its Lehigh Valley service this year.
"We've seen our operating funds in much better condition than they were prior to Act 89, and we should be financially sound for the next five years," LANTA Executive Director Armando Greco said.
The state's largest mass transit agency, SEPTA, which operates in Philadelphia and its suburbs, on Wednesday issued a $55.5 million public bid to replace a 119-year-old, 1,000-foot-long, 100-foot high passenger rail viaduct over a Delaware County creek. The crumbling viaduct was often used as a news conference staging ground to drum up support for the Legislature to pass the funding package.
The viaduct would not have been fixed without Act 89, SEPTA Deputy General Manager Jeff Knueppel said. If Act 89 did not pass, he said, SEPTA was planning to curtail or close several regional rail lines in the city and suburbs.
"Act 89 has given us a future," Knueppel said.
The bill's dreaded gasoline and diesel fuel tax increase to pay for the transportation upgrades is less obvious than critics feared thanks in large part to the worldwide drop in crude oil prices.
"We've said it all along," Schoch said. "What price you pay at the pump is affected more by the cost of a barrel of crude, cost of refining and getting it there [to the gas station] rather than the taxes. No one believed that."
The law eliminated a 12-cent consumer tax and raised the millage on a oil franchise tax, which wholesale distributors pay. The fear among lawmakers was wholesalers, such as Wawa, Sheetz and Sunoco, would pass most or all of that tax onto consumers at the pump. They did pass some of it along, but how much is unknown due to private pricing data held by the wholesalers.
Between January and May, the state's average consumer gas price rose 27 cents to $3.78 a gallon, according to AAA. Diesel prices went up 12 cents to $4.22 in that time. In June, prices started falling. As of Thursday, the average prices were $2.85 for regular gasoline and $3.57 for diesel.
Pennsylvania was smart and lucky to act when it did, said Patrick DeHaan, senior petroleum analyst at gasbuddy.com. Although gas prices are dropping, Pennsylvania still collects the same amount of taxes because it's based on a straight monetary value as opposed to a sales tax percentage, he said.
"It would have been impossible to see this big slide in prices coming," DeHaan said.
In November, the state collected $204 million in taxes, $10.5 million more than estimates, for the Motor License Fund, which includes gas and diesel taxes, license, fine and fee increases, state Revenue Department records show. That pushed the fund's annual tax collection to more than $996 million, which is $13.8 million, or 1.4 percent, above estimates.
Sen. John Rafferty, R-Montgomery, chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee, said several people have asked him in if he knew gas prices would fall. Absolutely, he quips.
Even with gas prices falling, work continues.
None of it would have occurred without Schoch's leadership, said state Rep. Mike Schlossberg, D-Lehigh, the only member of the Lehigh Valley's House delegation to support the funding bill. The Legislature would not have approved the bill if not for Schoch's ability to negotiate and rattle off statewide and regional statistics about roads and traffic, he said.
"Barry Schoch was brilliant," Schlossberg said.
Corbett deserves credit for hiring Schoch, added Gene Barr, president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry.
"I've been in this business a long time," Barr said. "I don't think I've ever seen a secretary work harder to get a bill passed."
Gov.-elect Tom Wolf would be wise to keep Schoch as transportation secretary, Schlossberg added. Schoch said he'd be willing to talk to Wolf about the position, but so far has not been approached. No decisions have been made, Wolf spokesman Jeffrey Sheridan said.
The passage of Act 89 was government at its finest because Democrats and Republicans compromised, Schlossberg said. Democrats dropped opposition to reducing construction workers' pay by not mandating they receive regional union-scale wages on local transportation projects budgeted at $100,000, he said. Republicans dropped opposition to a tax increase, he said.
"People walked away happy with the overall plan, but a little upset over some of the details," Schlossberg said. "But that's the way you are supposed to govern."
The transportation funding fight that Harrisburg saw in 2013 could resurface in counties next year, when Act 89 allows them to place a $5 surcharge on vehicle registration fees to raise money for county owned road and bridge repairs.
Twitter @sesack 717-783-7305
ACT 89 BY THE NUMBERS IN 2014
$1.5 billion in new revenue for roads and bridges $207 million for mass transit $60 million for local transportation projects, ports, rail freight and aviation 1,696 miles of road resurface and repaved 83 bridges fixed or under construction. Source: Pennsylvania Department of Transportation | 7,999 | 3,847 | 0.000263 |
warc | 201704 | HAGADERA, Kenya — The pirates get the headlines, but what drove Habibo Kune and her teenage son out of Somalia and into this sprawling, sand-blown refugee camp was a different group of men with guns.
Islamist militants, who've waged a two-year, blood-soaked insurgency, continue to battle pro-government forces for territory throughout southern Somalia. Since January, a surge in violence has driven more than 25,000 people into the camps of eastern Kenya — already overflowing with two decades' worth of Somali refugees — which has badly strained one of the world's largest humanitarian operations.
In Hagadera, the largest of three camps, new arrivals like Kune are crowding with relatives in bare, tree-branch huts covered in plastic sheets or fraying strips of clothing. The refugees say that the insurgents — a wholly separate phenomenon from the secular, ransom-hungry pirates — have imposed religious law on their towns and killed civilians who resisted.
"The pirates cause problems in the ocean," said Kune, 40, seated on the dirt floor of a hut, her round face creased with worry, "but the Islamists cause many more problems inside the country."
Relief agencies are concerned that anti-piracy efforts are diverting attention and resources from the plight of these refugees and hundreds of thousands in even more desperate camps in Somalia. While countries pledged $213 million last month to beef up security forces in the East African nation, the United Nations' request for $918 million for relief programs is still two-thirds unmet.
A funding shortfall also forced the U.N. World Food Program to reduce rations in the camps — the refugees' only source of food — by 17 percent last month. After a $10 million internal loan, the agency expects to resume full food distribution within weeks.
"The world has shown it can act quickly and decisively when commercial interests are at stake," said Andrea Pattison, a spokeswoman for the Oxfam relief agency. "It's now time to show the same sense of urgency for alleviating the suffering of millions of people on land who remain in desperate need of help."
Sometimes it seems as if no amount of money could help Somalia right itself.
While there are no proven links between the southern-based Islamists and the secular, northern-based pirates, both phenomena are symptoms of the lawlessness and economic wreckage that have characterized the country since a 1991 coup felled its last functioning government.
Two decades of chaos have swelled the Kenyan camps into the world's largest refugee settlement, sheltering 271,000 people on sun-scorched land that was meant to hold only one-third that many.
Amid shortages of food, water, health supplies and clean latrines, aid workers say that the refugees are increasingly vulnerable to outbreaks of disease. Cases of cholera surfaced in the camps earlier this year but the disease was contained.
Not everyone thinks that the focus on piracy has hurt refugees.
The top U.N. diplomat for Somalia, Ahmedou Ould-Abdallah, said that the surge in piracy — some 100 ships have been attacked in the Indian Ocean so far this year, nearly as many as in all of last year — has helped refocus attention on the need to shore up Somalia's government.
"We need simultaneous action on security, development and humanitarian needs," Ould-Abdallah said. "This should not be an occasion for quarrels between those who are here to help."
The insurgency is led by al Shabaab, a militant group that claims allegiance to al Qaida and that the State Department has designated a terrorist organization. In Kune's southern town of Bardheere, the militants instituted Islamic law and levied high taxes on businesses. Kune was forced to close her tea stall because she couldn't afford to pay.
"Al Shabaab is the superpower in that region," she said.
However, the Islamists' hard-line ways have sparked a backlash among Somalis, the vast majority of whom favor a moderate form of Sunni Islam. Last month in Bardheere, the Islamists clashed with a secular, pro-government militia called Ahlu Sunna Waljamaa, which has formed in recent months to battle al Shabaab.
After several days of gunbattles, Kune grabbed her 13-year-old son and jumped on a minibus that was heading to Kenya. They sneaked across a border that Kenyan authorities have closed for security reasons, but it's so long and unregulated that bus drivers routinely cross it at night, charging about $90 for the passage.
Human rights groups have sharply criticized Kenya for closing the border and for sending captured refugees back to Somalia, in violation of international laws against deporting asylum seekers back to their countries of origin. In a recent report, Human Rights Watch said that Kenyan authorities had deported possibly thousands of Somali refugees, "thereby violating the most fundamental part of refugee law."
Still, some 9,000 new refugees were registered in January alone, the largest monthly tally in more than a year.
Besides the constant threat of violence, a long-running drought in Somalia has decimated the sheep and goat herds that many families rely on for their livelihoods. Aid agencies estimate that more than 3 million people — half the country — need emergency assistance and that 200,000 children are severely malnourished.
MORE FROM MCCLATCHY | 5,403 | 2,691 | 0.000378 |
warc | 201704 | Reading about the problems along the Arizona border with Mexico, it's easier to sympathize with Arizona residents and understand why they support the draconian new law that requires police to stop people on "reasonable suspicion" of being undocumented immigrants.
It's still a terrible law, but Arizonans have good reasons to be angry.
Arizona is the biggest gateway in the nation for illegal entry. Hundreds of immigrants flood across the border each day from Mexico and Central and South America. The Border Patrol made 990,000 arrests of illegal immigrants in Arizona over the past three years, an average of 900 a day, but that is only a fraction of those who successfully enter the country.
Arizona is home to an estimated 460,000 illegal immigrants. Hundreds of thousands more have traveled through Arizona to other parts of the country.
Drugs also flow over the border in Arizona. Federal agents seize an average of 1.5 tons a day of marijuana. The government estimates that 60 percent of all the pot that reaches the United States comes through Arizona.
Where there are drugs and immigrant smuggling, there also is crime. Once peaceful neighborhoods are now home to "drop houses" where smugglers keep migrant laborers, stuffed like sardines, their shoes removed to prevent them from fleeing.
Hundreds of members of Mexican crime syndicates operate in Tucson and Phoenix. And U.S. officials fear that the drug war already being waged in Mexican border towns will spill over into this country.
So, what's the solution? One reader called recently to suggest that the federal government erect the equivalent of the Berlin Wall along the border.
In reality, it would require something closer to the Great Wall of China to begin to secure our 2,000-mile border with Mexico. And even if the nation could afford to do that, which it can't, the notion of turning the nation into a walled fortress is unrealistic.
Many more immigrants enter the country with legal visas by airplane than by land. Then they just stay here, melting into the general population.
We also have to consider the dynamics of the border. While parts of Arizona have become central entry points for smugglers, residents of hundreds of towns on both sides of the border have coexisted peacefully and done business for nearly 200 years, passing back and forth across the border practically at will.
One of the big complaints about the miles of wire fence the government has erected along the border is that it prevents American ranchers from watering their cattle in the Rio Grande as they have done for decades.
Finally, fences aren't impervious. People can get over them; people can tunnel under them.
And the so-called virtual fences are even less effective. The cameras designed to spot illegal immigrants can't distinguish between people and antelopes or jackrabbits.
But while the situation in Arizona is dire in some respects, it's actually improving, not getting worse. For example, the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics notes that violent crimes in the state fell from 512 per 100,000 people in 2005 to 447 per 100,000 people in 2008, the last year data was compiled.
And, despite the clamor about dangerous immigrants, crime rates are lowest in states with the highest immigration growth rates -- such as Arizona. Crime in the 19 states with the highest immigrant populations dropped by 13.6 percent from 1994 to 2004, compared to 7.1 percent for the other 32 states.
Finally, although the U.S. illegal immigrant population doubled to about 12 million from 1994 to 2004, the violent crime rate nationwide declined by 35.1 percent while the property crime rate fell by 25 percent. So, more illegal immigrants does not equate to more crime.
Critics accuse the federal government of doing nothing about illegal immigration. But there are more Border Patrol officers now on duty than ever before, and heightened enforcement has been a significant factor in reducing the number of illegal immigrants entering the country.
There is no feasible way to seal our borders completely, and we probably wouldn't want to do that even if we could. We want to entice the smartest, most innovative and hard-working people from around the world to come here, become citizens and take advantage of the entrepreneurial opportunities the United States offers.
The best way to make the border safer is to provide a legal way for temporary workers to enter the country without the help of "coyotes" and cartels.
Drugs? We can't stem the flow of illegal drugs unless we do something about Americans' insatiable appetite for them -- or quit the futile and wasteful effort to enforce marijuana laws.
What clearly won't help is Arizona's new anti-immigrant law. Even with a clause requiring "lawful contact" and a "reasonable suspicion" on the part of an officer that a person is in the country illegally, the law is a civil rights disaster.
"Lawful contact" could range from a traffic stop to a citation for littering. It's so broad that police can find a pretext to stop anyone they feel like.
And what exactly is "reasonable suspicion" that someone is an illegal immigrant? The only possible answer is that he or she fits the racial profile. And because one in three legal residents of Arizona is Hispanic, that means a lot of American citizens inevitably will be stopped and forced to show their papers.
That is one sure way to discourage needed cooperation between law enforcement officers and the immigrant community.
It's also un-American. It's reminiscent of Poland under the Nazis, Russia under the communists, South Africa under apartheid. Where are the protesters who hate intrusive government when government employees are empowered to demand proof of citizenship from ordinary Americans?
The nation needs comprehensive immigration reform -- including both better border security and a legal path to citizenship for the millions of undocumented immigrants inside the nation now.
What we don't need is a knee-jerk state law that abridges the Fourth Amendment rights of citizens and undermines the effort to maintain a friendly and productive relationship with Mexico.
This is feel-good legislation that does no one any good at all.
ABOUT THE WRITER
James Werrell is the Rock Hill Herald's opinion page editor. He can be reached by e-mail, at jwerrell@heraldonline.com. | 6,377 | 2,996 | 0.000336 |
warc | 201704 | Special Issue "Health Care for Old People"
A special issue of
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (ISSN 1660-4601).
Deadline for manuscript submissions:
closed (31 August 2013)
Guest Editor Prof. Dr. Dawn A. Skelton
Psychology and Allied Health Professions, School of Health and Life Sciences, Institute of Applied Health Research, Glasgow Caledonian University, Cowcaddens Road, Glasgow, G4 0BA, UK
Website | E-Mail
Interests: exercise physiology; falls prevention; sedentary behaviour; physical activity; quality of life; ageing
Dear Colleagues,
The 2002 release by the World Health Organization of the
Active Ageing: A Policy Framework, followed by the 2010 Global recommendations on physical activity for health have brought active ageing to the forefront of international public health awareness; this awareness was re-affirmed with the 2010 Toronto Charter for Physical Activity: A Global Call for Action which provides information for organizations and individuals interested in promoting physical activity can use this Charter to influence and unite decision makers, at national, regional and local levels, to achieve a shared goal. Inactivity in older people affects not only physical and mental health but also the individual's ability to cope with symptoms of disease, to be socially engaged and to enjoy a good quality of life. This special issue has a broad focus on active ageing, increasing physical activity but also reducing sedentary behaviour, a distinctly different risk factor for ill-health, with the ultimate goal to continue to build scientific knowledge on how we can reduce the public health burden of inactivity in older people worldwide. Both empirical and review paper submissions are welcome, on any topic relevant to health and active ageing. Papers on reducing sedentary behaviour are particularly welcome.
Dr. Dawn A. Skelton
Guest Editor Submission
Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. Papers will be published continuously (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.
Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are refereed through a peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health is an international peer-reviewed Open Access monthly journal published by MDPI. | 2,973 | 1,466 | 0.000687 |
warc | 201704 | Close window
It can take as little as eight minutes for an online predator to groom a child online, according to research from Middlesex University.
Criminologist Dr Elena Martellozzo was given unprecedented access to the Metropolitan Police’s high tech crime and paedophile units to observe the behaviour of child sex offenders using the internet to groom youngsters.
Now she has published her evaluation of sex predators’ online behaviour and policing strategies implemented to combat online child sexual abuse.
Dr Martellozzo observed that after breaking the ice with children as young as 12, within less than three minutes of chatting for the first time predators cut to the chase and to turn the conversation to sex, enabling them to build a bond within eight minutes.
Examples of phrases used by an online predator during the opening minutes of an exchange with a 12 year old girl:
• “I’m a very gentle guy” • “Discovered boys and sex huh?” • “I’d give you lots of kisses in all the right places” • “I'd love to be your first [lover]” • “[The fact that you’re 12] doesn't matter to me - if you want to [have sex] that's all that counts”
During her four year study Dr Martellozzo found that there are common and alarming features across child sex offenders:
1. They see children depicted in images as tradable objects and not as real people 2. Actions are justified by neutralising guilt through claims that they are helping the child to learn about sex for the good of the child 3. Offences are justified by making excuses or minimising the impact the abuse might have had on the victim 4. Two thirds of offenders expose themselves through a web cam - this is seen as part of the grooming process 5. Once arrested, online groomers denied their offence and involvement with the online offences, claiming that their behaviour was pure fantasy 6. The web is seen as a veil for anonymity, many believe they will not be caught 7. It is a belief that ‘everything is accepted’ on the web, including child abuse
Dr Martellozzo said: “Whilst there is no such thing as a typical online child groomer, it is nevertheless both possible and instructive to identify a range of distinctive child grooming behaviours. The majority of online predators see the internet as safe environment where all forms of behaviour are allowed, including child abuse, but police are increasingly aware of this.
“Internet grooming is often different from ‘real world’ grooming. This is so because some offenders spend less time chatting in order to get straight to the point, sometimes within a few minutes. This would suggest that the internet might act to remove inhibitions that might be heavily present in face-to-face contact. Research suggests that some sex offenders spend a long time online identifying the right victim to groom and eventually abuse.”
For worried parents, Dr Martellozzo suggests that talking about social media is the most simple practical step that could prevent their children being groomed online: “Parents must ensure their children understand that cyberspace should be treated exactly as they treat the real world. Children say and do things online that they wouldn’t usually do, including swapping photos of themselves, seeing it as innocent fun rather than something that could later embarrass or hurt them
“I've discussed online behaviour with hundreds of young people and many do not realise that everything they do online leaves a digital footprint that will always be there.”
Other simple steps include looking out for a change in a child’s behaviour when they have been online, or parents themselves engaging in social media and befriending their children.
She revealed her findings in a new book ‘Policing Online Child Sexual Abuse: Grooming, Policing and Child Protection in a Multi-Media World’.
For press enquiries contact Richard Hayward: R.Hayward@mdx.ac.uk or 0208 411 6761 | 4,079 | 1,976 | 0.00053 |
warc | 201704 | “Our findings further support the concept that the novel class of phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, or PDE-5 inhibitors, including vardenafil and sildenafil, may have a new utility in cardiac protection, in addition to their well-known use for the management of erectile dysfunction in men,” said Rakesh C. Kukreja, Ph.D., professor of medicine, physiology, biochemistry and emergency medicine at VCU.
In the study, Kukreja and his team demonstrated that pretreatment with a clinically relevant dose of vardenafil induces a protective effect against heart attack injury by opening the mitochondrial KATP channel in an animal model. According to Kukreja, PDE-5 is an enzyme responsible for the destruction of cGMP, an intracellular messenger molecule, in heart cells. He said that the mitochondrial KATP channel and cGMP play an important role in preconditioning of the heart following a heart attack. The cGMP also has a hand in the dilation of arteries in the body. PDE-5 inhibitor drugs, such as vardenafil, sildenafil and tadalafil are able to preserve cGMP, and therefore dilation of the arteries by inhibiting PDE-5. Vardenafil, like sildenafil, stabilizes the mitochondria and protects against damage of the heart by opening the mitochondrial KATP channels in cardiac cells. “This study provides important information about the mechanism by which the PDE-5 inhibitors work. Furthermore, it is proof that the positive findings of prior studies on sildenafil extend to another PDE-5 inhibitor,” said George Vetrovec, M.D., chair of cardiology at VCU’s School of Medicine. MEDICA.de; Source: Virginia Commonwealth University | 1,653 | 853 | 0.001193 |
warc | 201704 | This course will teach you everything you need to know about Medicaid and Medicare as a medical billing specialist, including how to complete and process medical billing claims for patients enrolled in each program.
The Difference Between Medicaid and Medicare
Medicaid and Medicare are often mentioned in the same breath, but the two programs perform completely separate functions in the American healthcare system.
Medicare
Medicare is a federal healthcare program created in 1965 with the passage of the Social Security Amendments to ensure that citizens 65 and older as well as younger persons with certain disabilities have access to quality healthcare. Medicare is administered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). CMS manages Medicare programs by selecting official Medicare administrative contractors (MACs) to process the Medicare claims associated with various parts of Medicare. Medicare as a healthcare plan is divided into different parts, each of which cover a specific healthcare service:
Part A (Medically necessary services): Part A of Medicare covers basic healthcare necessary to treat a pressing medical condition. Covered services may include hospital care, skilled nursing care, nursing home care, hospice care, and other support deemed essential to treating an illness or a condition. Part B (Preventive Care): Services covered in Part B include services or supplies needed to treat or prevent a medical condition. Part B of Medicare also covers some preventive care services such as inpatient/outpatient mental health, clinical research, and ambulance services. Part C (Medicare Advantage Plan): Part C of Medicare covers all healthcare services through a provider organization such as a hospital or a private practice. Patients must be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B to qualify for Part C. Part D (Prescription Drugs): Part D was created in 2003 with the passage of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act. It covers many prescription drug costs and is paid for by monthly premiums of Medicare enrollees.
For more information regarding Medicare, check out the federal government’s official page for Medicare.
Medicaid
Medicaid is a program that provides healthcare coverage for low-income families and individuals, for persons with disabilities, and in some cases the elderly. For medical billing purposes, the most important difference between Medicare and Medicaid is the organization of each program. Medicare is a program provided by the federal government through CMS and has universal applications across state boundaries. Medicaid is a program funded by both state governments and the federal government. States provide Medicaid benefits in cooperation with CMS and federal guidelines. Medicaid programs differ from state to state, though they must all meet certain standards established by the federal government.
Medicaid coverage plans can change from state to state. Some states have extended their Medicaid programs to cover comprehensive healthcare issues for recipients, while other states only meet the minimum program requirements as mandated by the federal government. The following are some of the minimum Medicaid services covered:
Inpatient/outpatient hospital services Family planning care Pediatric services Prescription drug costs Dental healthcare and services Mental health services Occupational, physical, and speech therapy
Rules of Medicaid eligibility also vary by state. Some states have stricter rules for eligibility, while others are more relaxed. As a medical billing specialist you should understand Medicaid eligibility in your state. You can visit the official Medicaid site in addition to the Medicaid page for your state to learn more.
Medical Billing for Medicaid
Medical billing for Medicaid is more complicated than medical billing for Medicare simply because Medicaid programs differ from state to state. Some citizens eligible for care in one state may not be eligible for care in another state, or they may receive a more or less benefits depending on the state in which they receive care. Billing codes, claim submission protocols, reimbursement rates, and other billing information will vary by state.
You will start the medical billing process for Medicaid by filling out a state claim form for the services and procedures covered. Most state Medicaid claim forms will be divided into main two parts: information regarding the patient and/or the insured person and information regarding the healthcare provider. As you complete the Medicaid form you will input codes from the following code sets:
International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) Codes: ICD-9-CM is the system by which official codes are assigned to medical diagnoses and procedures relating to hospital use in the U.S. The ICD-9-CM lists the official disease codes for relevant medical conditions and procedures. ICD-9-CM codes are a series of alphanumeric digits followed by a decimal point followed by one or two numeric digits. Place of Service Codes:Place of service codes specify where the patient received their medical care or supplies. Place of service codes are ascribed to medical facilities such as inpatient hospitals, nursing facilities, and hospices. Place of service codes are typically two digits long. Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) Level II Codes:HCPCS Level II codes are used to identify and categorize supplies, services, and products not included in CPT codes. HCPCS Level II codes may include ambulance services and prosthetics. HCPCS Level II codes have a single letter followed by four numeric digits. Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) Codes:CPT codes (also known as Level I HCPCS codes) are a subset of the HCPCS and they are used for identifying and categorizing medical procedures and services. CPT codes are created and revised as necessary by an official editorial board in conjunction with the American Medical Association. CPT does are five numeric digits long.
You can check the format of the Medicaid claim form in the state where you live in addition to state Medicaid policies on the official Medicaid webpage.
Medical Billing for Medicare
Medicare functions as a single-payer healthcare system that pays insurance companies on behalf of people enrolled in its various programs. It’s up to medical billing officials to submit claims to appropriate MACs for processing after a person has received care covered by their Medicare plan.
Your duties as a medical billing specialist include inputting information from a provider’s superbill into compatible medical billing software. This includes provider information, patient information, information regarding treatment the patient received, and any relevant medical codes. Once you’ve input the necessary information into the medical billing software, you will either print out a CMS-1500 claim form for submission via mail or you will submit another claim form electronically to MAC for processing. As you file claims associated with Medicare, you will need to input medical codes similar to those you would use for Medicaid claim forms including CPT, ICD-9-CM, and place of service codes.
In order to properly understand how to file claims associated with Medicare coverage, consider the separate parts of the Medicare healthcare program.
Part A: medically necessary services
You will process claims associated with Part A of Medicare (medically necessary services) if you’re a medical billing specialist working with hospitals, clinics, and other facilities that offer inpatient care. You file Part A claims on behalf of your provider using the
UB-04 medical claim form (also known as the CMS-1450 form). The UB-04 is the uniform institutional provider hardcopy claim form accepted for billing third-party providers. It is also the only hardcopy claim form that CMS accepts from institutional providers such as hospitals or skilled nursing facilities. When filing the UB-04 form, you should note that not all payers are required to complete the same data fields. Do your research to determine what fields are appropriate for each claim. Part B: preventative care
As a medical billing specialist working for an outpatient healthcare provider, you will usually process claims associated with Part B of Medicare (preventative care). You file Part B claims using the
CMS-1500 form, which is the standard claim form used by healthcare providers to billing Medicare carriers.
These forms must be purchased from legitimate sources other than the CMS, like the National Uniform Claim Committee (NUCC), which is responsible for updating and maintaining the CMS-1500. Be sure to check the guidelines for printing and preparing CMS-1500 forms before you process any claims. Note that the CMS-1500 form can also be used to bill some state Medicaid programs.
Parts C and D: to be filed separately
Claims related to Parts C and D of Medicare are relayed through a private insurer and should never be filed through Medicare. You won’t file Medicare claims with Parts C and D because private health plan carriers have agreements with Medicare to receive a certain amount per member every month. Part D of Medicare coverage may change depending on the person receiving care because coverage depends on the drugs involved. Some drugs aren’t covered by Part D at all. Thus claims filed through Parts C and D of Medicare should be treated like any other claim handled through a private health plan carrier.
Check out the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for detailed information about medical billing and coding procedures related to Medicare.
Processing Claims for Medicare and Medicaid
Know how to handle claims through these government healthcare programs.
Medicare claims
As a medical billing specialist, Medicare claims you file on behalf of the provider are sent directly to nearby MACs for processing. MACs typically take around 30 days to process each claim they receive.
Part A claims: Medicare pays the provider directly. Any deductibles, co-pays, or other fees that apply after Medicare pays the provider must be satisfied by the patient. Part B claims: Medicare pays either the provider or the patient for care covered by the plan, which depends on who accepts assignment of the claim. If the provider accepts assignment of the claim, Medicare will pay them for 80% of the approved amount. The remaining 20% will be paid to the provider by the patient. If the provider does not accept assignment of the claim Medicare will pay the patient the approved amount for care received, and they will then pay the provider. Medicaid claims
Processing billing for Medicaid claims can be trickier than those filed under Medicare because Medicaid claims must adhere to both federal and state guidelines. Providers who participate in Medicaid must meet these guidelines, and as a medical billing specialist you should be aware of any discrepancies between federal and state guidelines as you process claims. For example, a provider must adjust the remaining balance once meeting any applicable charges for a co-payment or deductible and after Medicaid has paid what they are allowed to pay under the Medicaid fee schedule.
Note also that Medicaid is officially the payer of last resource for a claim, meaning that if a person has any other health coverage for services rendered, those institutions should be billed before Medicaid.
Wrapping Up Course 6
Medicaid and Medicare are government-sponsored healthcare programs. Because these programs are managed by state and federal governments rather than through health insurance companies, there are special ways to process medical claims associated with these programs. Knowing the ins and outs of Medicare and Medicaid billing processes will help you to serve all patients fairly. | 11,933 | 4,524 | 0.000222 |
warc | 201704 | Services Part A Covers Blood:In most cases, the hospital gets blood from a blood bank at no charge, and you won't have to pay for it or replace it. If the hospital has to buy blood for you, you must either pay the hospital costs for the first 3 units of blood you get in a calendar year or have the blood donated by you or someone else. Home Health Services:Limited to medically-necessary part-time or intermittent skilled nursing care, or physical therapy, speech-language pathology, or a continuing need for occupational therapy. A doctor must order your care, and a Medicare-certified home health agency must provide it. Home health services may also include medical social services, part-time or intermittent home health aide services, durable medical equipment (see page 30), and medical supplies for use at home. You must be homebound, which means that leaving home is a major effort. Hospice Care:For people with a terminal illness. Your doctor must certify that you‘re expected to live 6 months or less. Coverage includes drugs for pain relief and symptom management; medical, nursing, social services; and other covered services as well as services Medicare usually doesn’t cover, such as grief counseling. A Medicare-approved hospice usually gives hospice care in your home (or other facility like a nursing home).
Medicare covers some short-term inpatient stays for pain and symptom management that can’t be addressed in the home. These stays must be in a Medicare-approved facility, such as a hospice facility, hospital, or skilled nursing facility. Medicare also covers inpatient respite care which is care you get in a Medicare approved facility so that your usual caregiver can rest. You can stay up to 5 days each time you get respite care. Medicare will pay for covered services for health problems that aren’t related to your terminal illness. You can continue to get hospice care as long as the hospice medical director or hospice doctor recertifies that you are terminally ill.
Hospital Stays (Inpatient):Includes semi-private room, meals, general nursing, drugs as part of your inpatient treatment, and other hospital services and supplies. Examples include inpatient care you get in acute care hospitals, critical access hospitals, inpatient rehabilitation facilities, long-term care hospitals, inpatient care as part of a qualifying clinical research study, and mental health care. This doesn't include private-duty nursing, a television or telephone in your room (if there is a separate charge for these items), or personal care items like razors or slipper socks. It also doesn’t include a private room, unless medically necessary. If you have Part B, it covers the doctor and emergency room services you get while you are in a hospital. Skilled Nursing Facility Care:Includes semi-private room, meals, skilled nursing and rehabilitative services, and other services and supplies (only after a 3-day minimum inpatient hospital stay for a related illness or injury). To qualify for care in a skilled nursing facility, your doctor must certify that you need daily skilled care like intravenous injections or physical therapy. Medicare doesn’t cover long-term care or custodial care in this setting. | 3,255 | 1,426 | 0.000709 |
warc | 201704 | A daily shower may be too much for the body says a new study. Showers are a part of everyone's daily routine. Some people have two or three showers a day.
Advertisement
A person may need to shower once or twice a week, according to Dr Elaine Larson, an infectious disease expert at Columbia University School of Nursing.
‘Frequent showers may remove natural oils and good bacteria from the skin, which could make the skin crack and attract harmful microbes that affect the health. ’
Advertisement"People think they're showering for hygiene or being cleaner, but bacteriologically, that's not the case," said Larson.
"Bathing will remove odor if you're stinky or have been to the gym. But in terms of protecting you from illness, washing your hands regularly is probably adequate," she added.
It is a well-known fact that too many showers could often lead to more problems, as it causes the skin to crack that could allow germs to get in while constant showers. Too many showers may also remove healthy oils and good bacteria.
Dr. C. Brandon Mitchell, assistant professor of dermatology at George Washington University, says he tells people who shower daily not to cover their whole bodies.
"Hit your pits, butt and groin, which are the areas that produce strong-smelling secretions. The rest of your body doesn't need much soaping."
"But If you want to avoid some nasty stares on the train, it's probably best you stick to at least a shower every other day."
Source: Medindia
Advertisement | 1,520 | 837 | 0.00122 |
warc | 201704 | The latest affliction to hit weary residents of Aleppo is the "Aleppo button" disease.
Transmitted by flies, the parasitic disease arrived along with the thousands of Syrians displaced from their homes by fighting.
Transmitted by flies, the parasitic disease arrived along with the thousands of Syrians displaced from their homes by fighting.
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Mohamed, 11, first saw the unsightly welts caused by the disease appear on his face three months ago, and they keep growing.
Advertisement"It's a fly that comes from pomegranates, it bites you and you catch the Aleppo button," he says.
The welts cover his nose and have cropped up around his mouth. While painless, they could leave scars that last for life. His mother, sister and cousins have also contracted the same infection.
The disease, which is not fatal but weakens the immune system, was largely confined to the countryside of Aleppo province until the civil war.
But as the conflict forces people from their homes and into the city, once Syria's economic hub, the disease has taken hold in Aleppo like never before.
"Between 200 and 250 people with leishmaniasis come for treatment" each day, according to 23-year-old Ali, a medical volunteer at a makeshift clinic in the city.
In the hallway where he receives the latest patients, a dozen men, women and children offer up their faces and arms, covered with the welts.
In the neighbouring room, under a sheet, a man pours the antiseptic Betadine over his leg. The disease has devoured all the skin on his calf.
But most of those affected are children, with Ali saying they represent around 50 percent of those with leishmaniasis in Aleppo.
"The children spend most of the time outside of the house and they play in the street, among the rubbish," says Aisha, a 16-year-old student who has worked as a nurse since the revolution began.
To be protected from the disease, people should at the very least be sleeping under mosquito nets, Ali says.
"But at 1,000 Syrian pounds ($10), how can a family with several children buy one for each of them?"
With summer approaching and the number of flies expected to multiply, one former physics student has decided to take matters into his own hands.
Rabie, 30, working with his cousin and a friend, tours the Tariq al-Bab neighbourhood armed with a strange machine that spits out white smoke.
"It's petrol mixed with insecticide," he said, a thin surgical mask on his face.
"We decided to organise ourselves now that summer is coming, to kill the flies responsible for the transmission of the disease to humans before they begin biting people," he said.
Before fighting began in Aleppo nine months ago, local authorities carried out an insect eradication campaign each year.
But this year, in areas of the city held by rebels, Rabie and his friends are carrying out their work from a small pick-up truck, with funds collected from rebel brigades and opposition groups.
The machine was purchased in neighbouring Turkey for $1,500 and is able to cover the dozen or so streets of each district in around an hour.
Faced with the mountains of rubbish that cover every corner of this former economic powerhouse, he knows his efforts are unlikely to make serious inroads.
But he persists nonetheless, because at the clinic, they have already opened the last box of Glucantime, a French drug used for treating leishmaniasis that is virtually impossible to come by in Syria.
Source: AFP
Advertisement | 3,490 | 1,710 | 0.000592 |
warc | 201704 | Sample Business Case
29 November 2010
The selection of a sample business case to follow as a guide is not as easy as it might seem. There are literally hundreds of thousands of them on the internet to choose from. Another valuable source is the archive documents at your own company.
By reviewing past examples at your company, a
sample business case can reveal a great deal of available information. This will include the correct formatting and appearance the document should have for the best chance of approval by the shareholders of the project.
Also revealed in a past
sample business case will be what is important to the stakeholders from their point of view. This can be easily accomplished by reviewing both the business cases that had been approved and those that were rejected. By making a list of the positives and negatives from your review will be very beneficial to your project and its chance of approval.
In many instances the sample business case was created by a project management template. If this is what you have found from your historical research of past projects, then you should do the same. Not only will the information you have acquired from the past examples be useful, but the template can help guide you into assembling the document accordingly.
Inside each sample business case should be these important components. There should be a brief description of the business background, the methodology that will be used and the scope of the project along with its benefits.
There should also be a section on the revenue needed to support your project. This will be different from any sample business case you use to follow since the cost of raw materials will always vary. There should be several different options to how, when and where the project should be implemented with the different level of benefits to the company explained.
The last section is almost always independent of the sample business case being used as a guide. This is the conclusion and how profitable the project is furcated to be for the company. With all these components placed in the correct order, your business case should be approved.
Project Templates Business Case Feasibility Study Project Charter Job Description Project Office Project Plan Resource Plan Financial Plan Quality Plan Risk Plan Communications Plan Procurement Plan Tender Process Statement of Work Request for Information Request for Proposal Supplier Contract Time Management Timesheet Expense Form Quality Management Quality Review Form Change Process Change Request Form Risk Process Risk Form Issue Process Issue Form Procurement Process Purchase Order Form Communications Process Project Status Report Project Closure Report Post Implementation Review | 2,746 | 1,250 | 0.000804 |
warc | 201704 | Another great New York Times Economix blog from Bruce Bartlett entitled “the Bush tax-cut failure”. Bartlett is one of the original supply side tax cutters. He served as senior staff to, among others, Jack Kemp, Ronald Reagan and Ron Paul. (By the way, his new book “The Benefit and The Burden: Tax Reform-Why We Need It and What It Will Take” is a terrific primer on federal taxes.)
This blog is focused on the third round of Bush tax cuts. Mainly the huge tax cut in the dividend tax rate (from 35 to 15 percent). It comes on the 10th anniversary of its adoption. As Bartlett recounts the justification for the dividend tax cut was the elimination of so-called double taxation. The prognosis from its supporters was a major shot in the arm for economic growth.
Double taxation, as you will recall, was also the justification for the elimination of state business taxes on most Michigan businesses. Also with a prognosis of turbo charging the Michigan economy.
How well did the Bush tax cuts work? As Bartlett writes the evidence is overwhelming that they did not contribute to economic growth. So much so that: “It is hard to find even a reputable conservative economist willing to say anything good these days about President Bush’s tax and economic policies. In 2009, the Harvard economist Dale Jorgenson said he saw no redeeming features in them. In 2011, the economist Alan Viard of the conservative American Enterprise Institute told Bloomberg News, “The effects of the Bush tax cuts on growth were ambiguous at best.” He added, “They were not much of a poster child for pro-growth tax policy.””
Bartlett concludes with the current thinking of R. Glen Hubbard, Bush’s Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers and the major proponent of the tax cuts. Bartlett writes: “Mr. Hubbard even suggested that higher revenues, long a Republican no-no, were not a bad thing. “
We need a tax system that can promote economic growth and raise the revenue the American people want to devote to government,” he said.” (Emphasis added.)
You read that right the main architect of the Bush tax cuts arguing that we need to raise revenue (economist speak for a tax increase). Tax cuts in general, and particularly ending so-called double taxation of business income, didn’t grow the national economy and almost certainly won’t the Michigan economy.
Its time Michigan policy makers –– of both parties –– learn the lesson of the “Bush tax-cut failure” that tax cuts aren’t the answer to economic growth. | 2,627 | 1,301 | 0.00081 |
warc | 201704 | Addressing the Need for More Women in Computer Science Programs
Last year, women accounted for only 14 percent of computer science college graduates in the United States, according to the Computing Research Association. That’s down from 35 percent in 1985, despite U.S. Labor Department statistics that show computing to be among the fastest-growing, most in-demand fields, with too few qualified candidates to fill the available openings. In addition, studies reveal that executives value the variety of perspectives that comes with team diversity, yet another reason for needing greater female participation in computing careers.
As a technology company and innovation leader, Microsoft is passionate about increasing the participation of women in computing, which means attracting more female students to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) programs. CEO Steve Ballmer has acknowledged this need, observing that “…we need to keep more women interested longer in their lives in STEM subjects.” We know this will require a concerted effort across private companies, NGOs, IGOs, government, and academia. We recognize that it’s vital for young women to get support during their undergraduate and graduate studies and to be exposed to opportunities in computer science, which is why Microsoft Research is proud to support the NCWIT Academic Alliance Seed Fund and to fund the Microsoft Research Graduate Women’s Scholarship.
I remember my first year of college engineering studies: I took Computer Science 101, studying PASCAL. I found it extremely boring, and I had no idea what careers were available in computer science, even though I was working at the school’s computer center where I supported students in computer labs, installed network cards into student computers, and helped the IT staff build the university’s firewall. At the time, I had no idea these duties, which I really enjoyed, were potential careers in computer science. After being approached by one of the professors to conduct research on building an animatronic bison for the engineering department, I decided to focus my energies on mechanical engineering and robotics. I didn’t realize that robotics could be part of the computer science world. A future in computer science engineering seemed out of the question—so there I was: one less woman in computer science.
Today, I want to do everything possible so that young women don’t make the same mistakes as I did. It is critical for us at Microsoft Research to familiarize young women with the amazing career opportunities in computing. In furtherance of that goal, I would like to highlight the programs and recipients of this year’s NCWIT Academic Alliance Seed Fund and the Microsoft Research Graduate Women’s Scholarship.
NCWIT is a national coalition of more than 200 prominent corporations, academic institutions, government agencies, and nonprofits working to strengthen the technology workforce and cultivate innovation by increasing the participation of women. Its Academic Alliance brings together more than 250 distinguished representatives from the computer science and IT departments of colleges across the country, spanning research universities, community colleges, women’s colleges, and minority-serving institutions. In 2007, Microsoft Research initiated the Seed Fund in partnership with NCWIT Academic Alliance. The NCWIT Academic Alliance Seed Fund provides U.S. academic institutions with funds (up to US$15,000 per project) to develop and implement initiatives for recruiting and retaining women in computer science and information technology fields of study. To date, the Seed Fund has awarded US$315,450. In partnership with NCWIT Academic Alliance, we would like to announce the 2012 winners:
Claremont Graduate University will team with Scripps College Academy to provide workshops that provide high school, undergraduate, and graduate students with mentoring and support to pursue careers in technology and computing. Project Principal Investigator: Gondy Leroy. Fisk University will integrate software engineering into its GUSTO (Girls Using Scientific Tools for Opportunities) project, which introduces, encourages, and prepares low-income and minority girls for STEM careers. Project Principal Investigator: Ray Bullock. Union College will pilot a successful Seed Fund project from another institution: a social robotics outreach workshop in which women computing undergraduates serve as mentors and educators for middle- and high-school girls. Project Principal Investigator: Nick Webb. The University of Central Arkansas will build a female-friendly environment for computing majors by recruiting a first-year cohort of women and retaining them with opportunities for learning, research, service, and leadership. Project Principal Investigators: Chenyi Hu, Yu Sun, and Karen Thessing. The University of Virginia will focus on actively recruiting computing graduate students from traditionally underrepresented groups by providing enhanced exposure to graduate programs, facilities, faculty, and graduate student life. Project Principal Investigator: Gwen Busby.
In addition, we know that a woman’s first two years of computer science graduate study are the most critical. During this time, she must determine her area of focus, increase her confidence in the field, enhance her capabilities in publishing and research, and build her network. This is why Microsoft Research created the Women’s Graduate Scholarship, which provides a US$15,000 stipend plus a US$2,000 travel and conference allowance to women in their second year of graduate study (at a U.S. or Canadian university), helping them gain visibility in their departments, acquire mentorship, and cover the burgeoning cost of graduate programs. Winners of the 2012 Microsoft Research Graduate Scholarship are:
Recipient University Danielle Bragg Princeton University Elizabeth Murnane Cornell University Emily Sergel University of California, San Diego Jennifer Townsend Georgia Institute of Technology Joanna Drummond University of Toronto Kaitlin Speer Northwestern University Valkyrie Savage University of California, Berkeley Vanessa Sochat Stanford University Veronica Catete University of North Carolina at Charlotte Yubin Kim Carnegie Mellon University
Congratulations to all the winning programs and students. We look forward to great things from 2012’s women in computing.
—
Rane Johnson-Stempson, Education and Scholarly Communication Principal Research Director, Microsoft Research Connections Learn More | 6,649 | 2,933 | 0.000346 |
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