Exalead is built around an intuitive, browser-based interface that's modeled after the company's web search portal. This convenient design lets you search your desktop and external websites from one place.

For a free product, Exalead Desktop is no slouch. It recognises more than 120 file formats, including Microsoft Office, PDF, OpenOffice; a variety of image, audio and video files; plus HTML, XML and Adobe Flash. Furthermore, the software indexes email, attachments, and notes from Outlook, Microsoft Exchange, Mozilla Thunderbird and Lotus Notes. I had no issues using Internet Explorer 8, Apple Safari 4, and Firefox 3.6 with Exalead.

Similar to other vendors, Exalead offers a licensed enterprise server product (price quoted based on configuration), Exalead CloudView. It collects structured and unstructured data from most any source within an organization and allows it to be searched from the single browser interface. In the middle you'll find the Professional Edition. It indexes more than 300 file formats, offers IT departments managed deployment, and integrates with Stellent content management systems (part of Oracle).

Exalead is a small download and ready for work in a few minutes. After selecting the folders to index, the system completed its initial crawl in about 30 minutes. There's no limit to the number of documents – and content can be stored on local hard disks, network drives, and attached storage, such as USB drives.

Exalead is specially optimised for multi-core or multi-processor PCs. This architecture enables real-time indexing without degraded performance to keep results up-to-date. For instance, I found an email that I was in the middle of writing.

After performing a search, the main display shows a thumbnail image, text summary and details about the file or message. File-type icons and document previews with the search term highlighted further help you judge whether you've found the right document without opening it.

Most important, Exalead was one of the early pioneers in faceted (or pivot) navigation of search results, and that design continues to distinguish the product. This means you refine searches by clicking on related terms or classifications that appear in a navigation panel. For example, you could narrow results to show just those email messages from a colleague – or find documents created on a specific date.

Exalead approaches advanced search differently from most other products. Instead of a form with a lot of options, you get one pop-up form with about 20 possible options. Say you want to perform a phonetic spelling. If you click that option, Exalead automatically fills in the correct syntax within the search box (soundslike:) and you simply type the word. Additionally, a built-in spell checker learns from the terms in your documents, which helps eliminate spelling errors in search queries.

The free version has some good security, which is important in a business setting, especially where employees share computers. For instance, it respects the access rights for the user who is logged in, so results won't include private files of others. And the software does not index cached or secure web pages.

Exalead provides a surprising number of features that are surrounded by rich navigation that helps a user quickly refine results. If you go with the no-cost download, it's hard to argue with the value it provides.


Ways On How To Achieve A Fit Body

To increase your life expectancy and become more healthy, you should certainly think about your health. Fitness is an important for everyone because it helps you fight off illnesses and can provide you with a more balanced body and mind. The tips from this article below has some great ideas that you get in shape and for all.

Leg Raises

Many people work out at the only way to get fit is by lifting weights. There are six exercises that you need: bridges, and they are pull-ups, squats, leg raises, push-ups, and leg raises.

Do you lack a lot of time for working out? Split your workout time into two separate sessions. Instead of running for one hour, jog on 2 separate occasions for 30 minutes during the day.

Simple push-ups can do wonders to tone triceps. This move will tone up your hard-to-work triceps more effectively than other types of exercises.

Strength Training

The frequency of your strength training depends solely on your goals. If you want muscle mass, you should do more intense sessions on a less frequent basis. If you want to become more tone and defined, increase the number of strength training sessions.

Don’t focus exclusively on crunches to work out your sole abdominal muscles. A university study has shown that a quarter million crunches only burn a single pound of fat. You must exercise your abs in various different ways.

Try working out during your favorite TV shoes to keep your momentum steady.You can use commercial or do an exercise when there is a break in the action. You can even work with small weights while you are sitting and relaxing. There are many chances to squeeze in your day.

When it comes to weightlifting, it is best do many reps of lighter weight as opposed to packing on as much weight as possible and doing fewer reps.Muscle mass is is not all about being able to lift the most but to endure the longest without losing strength.The largest body builders in the world swear by this way of training.

Devote a few minutes of every day to exercising.

Some people overdo their exercise programs in order to burn the calories that people expect it to.

Running can both a blessing and negative outcomes. To help prevent the negative effects, for one week out of every six, only run half as far as you usually do.

Fitness is crucial, but many see it as a process that takes doesn’t show progress for weeks. Don’t believe that myth! All you have to do is drink water and work out more; you will be on the right track to fitness. Use the tips you just read and commit to a fitness program and you will see a difference.


Jennifer Young

’The experience has made me even more determined to apply for place on a science course at university, mainly due to the confidence this placement gave me and the impression it gave me of a career as a research scientist.’

Why did you apply for a Nuffield Research Placement?

When this opportunity came up, I had to grab it with both hands as it would give me valuable experience in a research-based environment. This type of career appealed to me and I felt it was appropriate to gain some first-hand experience of the work they do there and the different projects going on. Finally, it would allow me to learn some practical skills including how to use some of the lab equipment which would surely aid my UCAS application and show that I have had valuable experience in my subject area.

What was your project about and did you know anything about the area before getting started?

My project focused on determining how gamma radiation affected the digestion of feedstock, in this case a poor quality grass from the hills of Cumbria called scrow, and how the pretreatment may affect the yield of biogas from set amounts of grass silage and slurry. In order to identify an appropriate method, several preliminaries were carried out such as trials to determine the best volume of inoculum and the mass of grass silage per 50ml vial. A few other trials were undergone to determine grinding time and “mashability” so the investigation was quite thorough.

This project was requested by Riever Renewables, a major anaerobic digester development company which gave the research a real sense of importance and it showed that it was relevant to current science. The research could even be used for a future PhD or paper which could prove to be beneficial to renewable energy production in the UK.

My previous knowledge about the affect of radiation pretreatment on feedstock was limited as it hadn't really been done before. The only familiarity I had with the project was the process of anaerobic digestion but even then I have gained a bounty of knowledge in the subject.

Was the placement what you expected it to be?

The experience far exceeded my expectations as I was trusted to use extremely expensive equipment and spent a lot of my time working in a laboratory environment without supervision, which allowed me to gain plenty of experience while also being independent and figuring things out for myself. It was amazing to undertake scientific tasks while expanding my knowledge of the area. It really helped me understand what it is like to be a research scientist and it has given me an insight into the world of research.

I encourage anyone thinking about a career in a STEM subject to apply for a Nuffield Research Placement as the opportunity is invaluable and skills learnt there are simply not covered in school. The skills learned will benefit you greatly especially if they are thinking of going to university. It is a great way to spend some of your summer holidays as it is an experience that not many people get this early in life. The opportunity will require work and perseverance but it is entirely worth it as it not only teaches you new skills but fills you with confidence in your ability.

Has your experience helped you to decide on a career path?

This experience has made me realise that I would love to pursue a career in research and thanks to their advice I know exactly what path I want to take. Even if this path doesn't work out I know many other ways to work in research and after my experience I can say that I would enjoy working there and I find it really interesting.


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4.2 Overnight Stays and Social Visits

The Positive Relationships Standard
Regulation 11

This procedure applies to all Looked After children placed in children's homes where social visits, including Overnight Stays, are planned.

Consents and Delegated Authority Procedure

Contact with Parents / Carers / Siblings and Others Procedure

Holidays and School Trips Procedure

In July 2017, this chapter was entirely revised and updated throughout and should be re-read in full.

  1. Introduction
  2. Social Visits / Overnight Stays
  3. Parental Consent

1. Introduction

Decisions about social visits and overnight stays should be delegated to children’s homes staff. The arrangements for making such decisions should be written into the Placement Plan in line with the Care Plan taking account of any relevant court directives.

The parents’ views on social visits and overnight stays should also be obtained. For procedures on Parental Consent, see Section 3, Parental Consent.

The Placement Plan should include the parameters within which visits or stays away from the home with friends may be agreed by the children’s home staff without prior consultation with the social worker, and whether agreement to such visits requires the staff to obtain parental consent. The Plan may state that the social worker and/or parent must always be consulted.

The guiding principle is that Looked After Children should as far as possible be given the same permission to take part in normal and acceptable age appropriate activities, such as staying with friends, as would reasonably be granted by parents of their peers. Judgment should depend on the assessed risks to, and needs of, the child.

Where there are exceptional reasons to require staff to seek the permission of the social worker, a manager or a parent, or place specific restrictions on permitting a child to stay overnight with friends, this should be necessary to safeguard the child’s welfare. The child’s wishes should be taken into account in reaching any such decision.

Any such restriction, together with the reasons, should be clearly recorded in the Placement Plan, and explained to the child where appropriate. Restrictions should be reviewed regularly to ensure they remain relevant.

2. Social Visits / Overnight Stays

Social visits and overnight stays are a regular part of most children’s/young people’s experience and often occur at short notice. Children should be helped to develop and benefit from positive relationships. Staff should endeavour to help the child understand about personal, sexual and social relationships, and how those relationships can be supportive or harmful, in a way appropriate to the child’s age and understanding.

Where children wish to stay overnight with friends, staff should carry out the same kind of checks that responsible parents might make in similar circumstances to seek reassurance that the child will be well cared for and safe.

Considerations may also include:

  1. Are there any relevant restrictions in the child’s Placement Plan?
  2. Are there any factors in the child’s past experiences or behaviour to preclude overnight stays?
  5. The age and level of understanding of the child;
  7. How well is the friend or family known to the child?

Where the children’s home staff propose to agree to the child’s stays away, before allowing them to go ahead certain enquiries should be made, for example the name of the adult who will be responsible for the child, the means of contacting the adult and the child during the visit/stay and the arrangements for the child’s return. There should be clarity about the sleeping arrangements.

Prior to the child’s stay away, staff should arrange to meet the adult who will have responsibility for the child unless he or she is already known in which case the prior arrangements may be made over the telephone.

The arrangements for supervising or caring for the child must not compromise the safety of the child or that of any one else, and the following considerations should apply:

  6. Does the child have access to a mobile phone?

This might include:

  • Any specific health care needs of the child;
  • Any established routines for the child;
  • Any behaviour management problems which, if the adult is unaware of, could lead to difficulties during the visit, for example the child may be over-familiar with adults or over-assertive with younger children.

Any decision to share information should be on a ‘need to know’ basis and recorded.

If the child refuses to allow appropriate information to be shared, then he or she needs to be made aware that this could affect the decision to allow the child to stay away from home.

If satisfied that it is appropriate to allow the child’s stay away, a decision to allow it to go ahead may be made. If not, it may not be allowed.

The decision and the arrangements agreed should be recorded in full.

3. Parental Consent

Wherever possible, parents' views and consent to contact with relatives and friends including any overnight stays away from the home should be obtained at the time of the placement. These views should be recorded including an indication of whether the parent wishes to be notified or their consent obtained every time an overnight stay takes place and if so, whether such consultation and prior consent is required before the contact can go ahead.


genetic screens

Despite the importance of glial cells in the nervous system, many questions remain unanswered about the mechanisms that govern their development and function. To discover genes with essential functions in glia, we have conducted three different genetic screens to find new mutations that affect the development of microglia and myelinated axons. In the first of these, we analyzed more than 1850 clutches of F3 larvae to identify mutations with specific defects in the expression of mbp mRNA. This screen identified 13 mutations in 10 genes that disrupted mbp expression in the CNS, in the PNS, or in both (Pogoda et al. 2006, Developmental Biology 298: 118-131). Our second, smaller screen expanded the scope of phenotypes examined by assaying sodium channel (NaCh) expression at nodes of Ranvier in myelinated axons (Voas et al. 2007, Current Biology 17: 562-568).  In a third genetic screen, we identified mutations that disrupt the ability of microglia to engulf the dye neutral red (Shiau et al. 2013, Cell Reports 5: 1342-1352).  None of these screens was pursued to saturation, so continued screening will yield mutations in genes that have not yet been defined. Most of the mutants have normal morphology, suggesting that the mutated genes have relatively specific functions in the development  of glial cells or the associated neurons. Phenotypic studies indicate that the mutated genes act in many different processes, including glial fate specification, axon outgrowth, glial migration, organization of the nodes of Ranvier, lysosomal function, and control of inflammation. In addition, several of the genes have been associated with human disease, indicating that analysis of these zebrafish mutants will yield important insights into diseases that disrupt glial development and function.

talbot lab.  stanford school of medicine.  copyright © 2015.  all rights reserved.


St Michael’s feast falls this Friday, hence the English custom of referring to autumn schooldays as the “Michaelmas term”. As we mark the centenary of the Fatima apparitions, there are suggestive links between Leo XIII, the St Michael prayer and Fatima for those who are anniversary-minded.

We do not have a definitive historical account of what exactly happened to Pope Leo XIII, but there is a consensus on what roughly took place in the 1880s. After offering the Holy Mass one morning, Pope Leo was making his thanksgiving by attending another Mass, the custom for high-ranking prelates at the time. At some point those observing Leo noticed that he seemed transfixed, as if seeing a vision. Visibly troubled, he made his way from the chapel to his private office, his alarmed aides following with concern.

He emerged from his office a short while later, having composed the prayer to St Michael. It was added in 1886 to the other “Leonine prayers” which the Holy Father had mandated be recited after Low Mass in 1884.

What moved Pope Leo to write the prayer? Accounts vary in the details, but the general gist is that he had a vision akin to the scene at the beginning of the Book of Job. The Devil challenged the Lord Jesus that he “could destroy the Church” if he had more time and more power. Jesus, again like the Lord God in the Book of Job, grants the Devil his request, a century in which his power will be greater. Some accounts have Pope Leo actually hearing the conversation between voices divine and diabolical.

Pope Leo, intuiting then that dreadful terrors would soon descend upon the Church and the world, wrote the prayer beseeching the protection of St Michael and mandated that it be universally recited, countless times each day in every part of the world.

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Time Management

The time management system installs discipline in the work schedule without creating a high pressure atmosphere. Clocking in, clocking out, and breaks are transparently recorded, and a convenient planner and daily report keep tasks organized and prioritized. The data input into this gadget is saved and used as the basis of the work report for each employee. Additionally, time spent on tasks can be tracked using this tool.


Albinus Rubber Pleco L146a  REGULAR

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The name "plecostomus" means "folded mouth"  Pleco is a common name for fish from the familyLoricariidae but has extended  to the family Hypostomus plecostomus known as a sucker fish

Many types of suckermouth armoured catfishes remain undescribed. As a result, they are given a common name and an L-number designation until a new scientific name is agreed upon.

They are extremely popular in aquariums for their ability to clean tanks by eating algae growth and dead fish.

Plecos are omnivorous, but in the wild feed nocturnally mostly on plant material. During the day, their unusual omega irises block a lot of light out of their eyes, but they are usually open at night. They can roll their eyes within their sockets, giving the appearance of winking. Plecos are usually skittish and quickly hide whenever they sense danger.

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Many of the plecos sold on this site are wild caught and size will vary according to season

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Medium - 3 " inches

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Category Archives: History

Why We Still Debate the Civil War

Here we are, in 2017, we’re still debating the causes of the Civil War, which began in 1861 with roots that stem from centuries before. This blog post isn’t about statues, racism, social justice or the like, it merely is written to clarify the actual primary cause of the Civil War. No doubt there are many reasons, that were evident at the time, but those were subordinate in the grand scheme of events leading to the war.civil_war_stamp

The Civil War, also known as “The War Between the States,” was fought between the United States of America and the Confederate States of America. The CSA was a collection of eleven southern states who left the Union in 1860 and 1861 and formed their own country in order to protect their continued usage of the institution of slavery.

Slavery was introduced to North America by the British as far back as the early 17th century. The south believed in the dissolution of the Union after they couldn’t come to an agreement with the dominant north over the rights of states to control commerce. Slavery was a component of commerce, not in its entirety, but an essential component. It was legal at the time the country was formed, and the southern states saw no justifiable reason to change when they knew most of the northern leadership agreed with them. Negroes, as they were called, were not equivalent to Caucasians. They weren’t allowed to vote, own property, inter-racially marry, or if they lived in the south, couldn’t participate freely with the fruits of their labors.

The northern leadership believed, once the union of states were created, no one or more states had the right to leave that union. They were willing to negotiate, but when the matter came to a head, they willingly took up arms to preserve that union and stop the south from seceding.

events leading to the American civil war
The slavery extension question was thought to have been settled by the Missouri Compromise nearly 40 years earlier. The Mexican War, however, had added new territories, and the issue flared up again in the 1840s. The Compromise of 1850 provided a temporary respite from sectional strife, but the Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854, a measure Stephen A. Douglas sponsored, brought the slavery extension issue forward again. The Douglas bill in effect repealed the Missouri Compromise by lifting the ban against slavery in territories north of the 36°30′ latitude.

The Supreme Court decided a case brought forward by an escaped slave. He in effect was suing for himself and his family’s freedom. The Dredd Scott decision rendered in 1857, declared he wasn’t entitled to his freedom; that Africans were not and could never be citizens of the United States; and that the Missouri Compromise of 1820, which had declared free all territories west of Missouri and north of latitude 36°30′, was unconstitutional.

This further set in motion the events leading up to the Civil War. In effect, it supported the institution of slavery, and the southern states now believed it was their personal right of sovereignty. In effect, the Constitution was a voluntary agreement, as easily broken as it was initially agreed upon.

The Douglas doctrine of popular sovereignty, was to permit new territories and states the right to self-determine their status as a free or slave state. This slavery extension proposal, provided the background for the Douglas – Lincoln debates of 1858. Their debate, addressed the problem that had divided the nation into two hostile camps which threatened the continued existence of the Union.

Slave_kidnap_post_1851_bostonIn 1859 John Brown, an abolitionist, working in concert with others, formed a rebellion in Harpers Ferry Virginia (now West Virginia). Brown had previously met abolitionists, Frederick Douglass and Sojourner Truth while living in Springfield Massachusetts. Brown was convinced slavery wasn’t going to end through peaceful negotiations. Brown’s personal attitudes evolved in Springfield, as he observed the success of the city’s Underground Railroad and made his first venture into militant, anti-slavery community organizing. In speeches, he pointed to the martyrs Elijah Lovejoy and Charles Turner Torrey as whites “ready to help blacks challenge slave-catchers.”

The choice of allowing slavery for some admittedly was a compromise, so the fledgling nation had enough backing to form a binding union, and thereafter break away from British rule. As we see today in politics, challenging problems are pushed forward in hopes that someone will solve the problem in the future. Doing so, means a crisis builds until the inevitable fateful day, and it can no longer be ignored.

Flawed From the Beginning

Many of the Founders wished to abolish slavery in the Constitution. The irony and hypocrisy were not lost on them, and they weren’t shy about saying it. The compromises in the Constitution regarding slavery placed the short-term need to form a Union ahead of a contentious debate with no resolution. The alternative was two countries, one without slavery and one with. Several founders later emancipated their slaves.

In 1807, Congress passed a law and Jefferson signed banning the importation of slaves to begin on January 1, 1808, the very first day permitted under the Constitution. Some have argued that this only made existing slaves more valuable and the South already had sufficient slaves to breed to meet their needs. I give our Founders the benefit of the doubt. If for no other reason, a slaver would vote against this to maintain his right to hold slaves on principle.

After the law passed, US Naval forces commenced to patrolling the African coast and seizing slave ships. Great Britain was already doing the same.

Slavery, was officially ended by the British, and the US was trying to figure out how to completely eliminate it within its own borders, and not criminalize its own citizens. Those same citizens were part of the framers of the Constitution, and supporters of Independence. Virginia was the home of Thomas Jefferson and the cradle of independence. It was a natural place to be the capital state for the Confederacy.

tenth_amendment_states_rightsThe dilemma for America was from its very beginning. As an ideal, the framers and leaders knew that all men were created equal but their society, their practices, had accepted distinctive differences in race as a basis to allow slave holdings.

Slaves were the means by which the south could compete against the more industrial north. This economic disparity, along with punitive tariff’s against the south, created additional friction. After the insurrection by Brown, the southern states believed violent uprisings were going to part of their future, they also thought they had a legal right to secede, and no peaceful option in which to exercise that right.

“Historians agree that the Harper’s Ferry raid in 1859 escalated tensions that a year later led to secession and the American civil war.” Put down by Colonel Robert E. Lee of the United States Army, assisted by First Lieutenant J.E.B. Stuart the temporary insurrection was quickly suppressed.

There are many who insist the Confederate States of America were formed through a common cause theme just as the United States did against Great Britain decades before. They believe the south chose independence because of the continued encroachment against states rights by a central federal government. They see Lincoln as a dictator not an emancipator. Lincoln, despite his Illinois state speeches against slavery in the 1840’s, and his famous debate’s against Douglas in 1858, stated if he could keep the Union, he would have accepted slavery as a compromise. History shows that he didn’t.

That’s the historical irony, the individual states agreed to be part of the union at the Constitutional convention of 1783, as long as they could keep slaves. By 1860, after decade of debates, court battles, and slave rebellions, the south’s insistence that slaves were property, not equal as humans, and they had every right to decide what they could do with their property. This property kept the wealthy land owners in business. It also increased their wealth, a wealth which was the driving force for southern economy, seemingly threatened by the more industrialized north. As in all things, contemporary, or historical, there are many reasons, and aspects to conflicts.

compromise_of_1850As much as some people want to “window dress” the motivations of the Civil War, the overwhelming unresolved problem was slavery. To say it was over states rights, economic factors, or encroachment of federal law into individual states commerce, is by varying degrees, true. The long-standing tensions and disagreements about the use of humans as a means to an end, in providing an economic base were the ultimate catalyst. None of those would have been significant factors if not for the conflicting arguments over slavery.

Between election day and Lincoln’s inauguration in March, seven states had seceded from the Union: South Carolina, Mississippi, Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, and Texas. They were to be followed by four more: North Carolina, Virginia, Arkansas, and Tennessee. Missouri, and Tennessee were divided within specific geographic boundaries, depending on who were the predominant community leaders. Kentucky started out neutral, but voted to become part of the union. West Virginia broke free of Virginia in 1863 to become part of the Union.

Republicans captured over 60 percent of the Northern vote in 1860, and won three-fourths of its Congressional delegations. The Southern press said that such Republicans represented the anti-slavery portion of the North, “a party founded on the single sentiment…of hatred of African slavery“, and now the controlling power in national affairs.

The cause of rebellion – Civil War 1861-65.

Opening volley – Why Fort Sumter?

The Top Nine Events Leading to Civil War

An Educators Guide to the Civil War

Here is an excerpt of the Declaration of Secession by the State of Georgia.

“The prohibition of slavery in the Territories is the cardinal principle of this organization.”

Continue to read this secession document.

Lieutenant General John B. Gordon, CSA

Influencing People Through Fear

People who wish to influence or control others have long since understood one of our prime motivators is the use of fear. It drives our instinct to survive, fight or flight. No normal person wants to sign up for pain & suffering. Secondary control factors include, financial incentives (reward), social status & peer pressure (ego).

torture-devicesGovernments, especially those who have unlimited power to do what they want, have used fear to motivate or control the populace. Torture was part of their tool kit, and the thought of ending up humiliated in shackles, or placed on a rack, was enough to instil fear in most people.

Christianity found their tool with the word, “hell”. You don’t behave, or do what the group thinks, you’re going to end up in a highly undesirable zip code, for eternity.

We see it’s more than peer pressure to influence predictions of climate change, we have government grants for educational and research institutions which measure and computer model predictions. The arsenal of control and scaremongering is reinforced through sympathetic media on “global warming“. If the latest trends don’t follow “scientific prediction”, than it’s called “climate change”. You places your bets, then change the predictions based on latest trends.

Which ever way the thermometer and weather, especially severe weather patterns change, it’s always based on “climate change”. Therefore if you have a drought, a flood, a grouping of tornadoes, it’s attributed to climate change.

Who Decides?

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), states the largest contributor to global warming is the increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) since 1750, particularly from fossil fuel combustion, cement production, and land use changes such as deforestation.

We’ve been here before – More Lies

In November 2009, hackers gained access to a server used by the CRU and stole a large quantity of data, anonymously posting online more than 1,000 emails and more than 2,000 other documents.

A series of independent public investigations of the allegations found no evidence of fraud or scientific misconduct. The Muir Russell report exonerated the scientists, but found “a consistent pattern of failing to display the proper degree of openness, both on the part of CRU scientists and on the part of the UEA”. The scientific consensus that global warming is occurring as a result of human activity remained unchanged.

In 2011, an analysis of temperature data by the independent Berkeley Earth Surface Temperature group, of whom some had stated they thought it was possible the CRU had manipulated the data, however concluded that “these studies were done carefully and that potential biases identified by climate change sceptics did not seriously affect their conclusions”.

So, the hacked emails supposedly didn’t reveal anything that pointed out a bias or a skewing of results. Here’s what some of the email said, you decide. See
University of East Anglia emails: the most contentious quotes.

You can click on the above link to see more of these emails.

More critical background and science history of Michael E. Mann found here.

Here we go again!

How can we trust global warming scientists if they keep twisting the truth?
| DailyMail February 11, 2017 | The following is an excerpt from their post.

The contentious paper at the heart of this furore – with the less than accessible title of Possible Artifacts Of Data Biases In The Recent Global Surface Warming Hiatus – was published just six months before the Paris conference by the influential journal Science.

It made a sensational claim: that contrary to what scientists have been saying for years, there was no ‘pause’ or ‘slowdown’ in global warming in the early 21st Century.
Indeed, this ‘Pausebuster’ paper as it has become known, claimed the rate of warming was even higher than before, making ‘urgent action’ imperative.

The ongoing battle between a radio host and author vs. the scientist.  | Michael E. Mann v. Mark Steyn

What is Memorial Day?

I failed to post this yesterday as a follow up to the Memorial Day 2017 dedication I posted on Twitter.

Yesterday wasn’t about me or others that have served, or are serving in the military.

Its about those soldiers, sailors, marines, and air corps, who gave everything they had to the cause of bringing conflict to a conclusion, and to allow people the opportunity to choose for themselves as to how they want to govern.

All the criticisms of the military, our government, our industrial, technological, or wealth, has nothing to do with Memorial Day. There were many people who chose to use it to support their political, ideological, and critical view points. It has nothing to do with that at all.

The United States, for all its flaws, shortcomings, and mistakes, has at its core a desire to keep the world safe enough for people to choose for themselves a way of life. Written in its foundational documents, are the basic humane principles of life, liberty and pursuit of happiness.

When a person enters the military, they become part of a history of a nation that wants to protect those foundations. and has been willing to do so at great personal risk, significant loss of life, wealth and reputation. To argue we gave blood for treasure is to ignore that no amount of industry, or military victory, has offset the price we spent, or the blood we spilt, not just for ourselves, but many other nations as well.

Our history as a nation has been to cede back the lands, rebuild the basic civil foundations, and for decades, donate vast resources & money in order for the weak to become stronger. We are not a conquering people, we’re a liberating people.

How do I know this to be true? I’m one of the millions, who over the centuries, left my home, voluntarily gave a portion of my life, to be trained, skilled, and willing to defend this country. We desired no lands, sought no riches, and did things few are willing or able to do.

I have this one day of the year to thank those who were required in the course of their service, to lay down their life to benefit, defend, secure, the liberty of others, including me. That’s Memorial Day. A day which we as a nation should remember those who died for us, yet we so soon forget in our normal, comfortable, and mostly peaceful journey.


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Ginger Fried Rice

Ginger Fried Rice

1 cup cooked white glutinous rice
1-2 teaspoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 tablespoon minced ginger
1/2 tablespoon minced garlic
1 egg
Canola oil

5. Then add the rice and mix thoroughly.

6. Remove everything from pan onto plate.

Chicago Cupcakes

The Motherload

The Motherload

I’ve personally never been caught up in the whole cupcake craze. I didn’t really understand why people freak out over these mini-cakes because, well, they’re just that – mini cakes. That is until I tried a few from Chicago Cupcakes, a cupcake truck that visited Northwestern campus a couple months ago.

There are three components that make up a Chicago Cupcake and those are the frosting, the cake and the crust. Each treat comes topped with silky Italian buttercream that adds an appropriate sweetness and smooth, creamy texture. The cake is infused with some kind of creamy diary so it tastes and feels more like a light, moist cheesecake rather than a traditional cupcake – brilliant! It’s absolutely delicious and the texture is both surprising and satisfying. And the finishing touch? A salty sweet crust that holds the entire beauty together; each crust is chosen to compliment different cupcake flavors.

The first I tried was the Motherload and you’ll understand its name once you read the description: chocolate cake on a pretzel and brown sugar crust, filled with peanut butter and topped with a caramel Italian buttercream, chopped peanuts, pretzels and brown sugar. It is THE dream cupcake, everything you’ve ever wanted and more. Salty, sweet, creamy, nutty, decadent, light…shall I go on?

The second cupcake was the Key Lime, which had a fluffy cheesecake-like texture and a clean lime flavor that shone through. It came with a graham cracker crust and proved to be a simultaneously light and decadent treat.

These guys at Chicago Cupcake really changed my perspective on what cupcakes can be. Try them out to learn the real potential behind these mini-cakes.


Stakeholder analysis and strategy development report

Order Description

You must then prepare a Snap Inc. Stakeholder Analysis & Strategy Program Report including an Executive Summary and a Conclusion and using the following headings:
A. Snap Inc. Stakeholder View of the Organisation Model
Prepare a diagram with Snap Inc. as the central organisation surrounded by the company’s stakeholder groups using the stakeholder view model
For each stakeholder group identified in the stakeholder view model research Snap Inc. further and prepare a list identifying and describing the specific stakeholders within each stakeholder group
B. Stakeholder Analysis for four selected stakeholder groups
Select four specific stakeholders and analyse their behaviour and motives
Tip: choose a stakeholder from each of the different four stakeholder categories to avoid repeating yourself in sections C and D
C. Stakeholder category identification and generic strategic programs for each of the four selected stakeholders
Identify the stakeholder category that each of the four stakeholders belong to and list the generic strategic programs available for managing each stakeholder

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Treatment options for military service

Treatment options for military service

The post comprises of four asighnments

1 treatment options for military service

2 Can This Merger Be Saved?

3 planning/structuring strategy

4 Pediatric

Asighnment 1

Can This Merger Be Saved?

Order Description

Case Assignment
to this fictional case:
Cliffe, S. (1999). Can This Merger Be Saved? Harvard Business Review, 77(1), 28-44. [EbscoHost]
(2015) in your answer.
What is the source of this conflict? Use the terminology from the Pearson tutorial, Bauer and Erdogan (2011), or Luthans et al. (2015) in your answer. For example, is
Cunningham to take?
Pay special attention to the additional readings below on causes of conflict, types of conflict, and conflict management styles.
Luthans, F., Luthans, K. W., & Luthans, B. C. (2015). Chapter 9: Stress and conflict.
Bauer, T., & Erdogan, B. (2012). Chapter 10: Conflict and negotiations. Organizational Behavior.
Shearouse, S. H. (2011). Chapter 5: How we respond: Approaches to conflict.

Asighnment 2

treatment options for military service

Order Description

Consider the treatment options for service members who return from deployment with a new diagnosis. Proposesc members who return from combat with one of the following
PTSD from combat
PTSD from sexual assault
Substance abuse

Asighnment 3

planning/structuring strategy

Order Description

Assessment Guide
Project Strategy
Illustrate and critically evaluate , through the use of various (imagined or real) project case/scenarios, the potential use of the of principles, processes and tools,
taken from the course and literature..To demonstrate how a project strategy (and its sub-strategies of):
0. Case (or cases) background illustrating descriptions (These might be located throughout the project)
1. problem definition;
2. value/investment case (options & do nothing option);
3. feasibility (constraints);
4. procurement/contract strategy;
5. planning/structuring strategy;
6. run/report and control (modelling);
7. review & learning.

Asighnment 4

Research a current policy, bill or issue being debated on the community, state, or national level pertaining to child health or welfare. summarize the major facts and
supporting or opposing issues. 1. describe the bill, name and date implemented or revised 2. does it have any effect on the nursing industry? How? 3. how does it
benefit the population 4. how does not benefit the population? 5. do you agree with the bill? why? – table of contest – introduction – objetives – conclusion

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Law Office of Christopher A. Connelly
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Charlotte NC Criminal Defense Law Blog

DA Witness not following Judge's Order results in DWI dismissal

Attorney Connelly asked the court to prohibit a key State's witness from giving critical testimony after the witness violated a sequestration order of the court. (A sequestration order requires that all witnesses remain out outside the courtroom and not discuss the case or their testimony.) This key witness sat through the testimony of other witnesses even though the court had ordered that all witnesses remain outside the courtroom. This resulted in the dismissal of a DWI case.

1 charged with DUI following moped accident in North Carolina

A 55-year-old man has been accused of driving under the influence of alcohol following a recent accident in which he veered off the road while operating a moped. North Carolina state law permits a person to drive such a vehicle without a license or insurance provided the operator wears the proper gear. However, laws concerning impairment apply to all drivers, and those accused of DUI under similar circumstances could face serious consequences.

Law enforcement agents assert the incident took place just before 1 a.m. on a recent Tuesday when the driver of a moped veered off road and crashed his vehicle. Although no information was provided as to his condition, he was reportedly taken to a medical facility for treatment soon thereafter. Authorities have advised that he will be charged with intoxicated driving after he is released from the hospital.

2 face charges following domestic violence incident

According to reports, authorities responded to the scene after receiving reports of shots being fired at a local residence. Police claim the incident began when a fight erupted between two individuals. Following the dispute, a man reportedly attempted to leave the scene in a vehicle when a woman located a gun and fired a bullet at him, subsequently shattering a window next to him. Although the bullet did not hit the man, he reportedly suffered cuts from the glass.

Penalties for prescription drug abuse in North Carolina

One of the most amazing benefits of modern society is the advancements in medicine. Prescription drugs have done wonders in treating multiple diseases and health conditions. Unfortunately, some also carry the risk of abuse or addiction. These risks become reality for millions of Americans each year.

You may think that because a drug is also a legitimate medication, it is not as serious to distribute or use it illegally, or even abuse it legally. However, prescription meds are controlled substances, just like other nonmedicinal drugs, and therefore can carry harsh penalties for criminal misuse.

4 arrested on drug charges at residence near college campus

As a college student, being accused of a drug-related crime can be a scary and daunting experience. Students who face drug charges may have little to no experience in the area, and they might be unaware of their legal rights. Four individuals have recently been arrested following an investigation into possible drug activity at a townhouse near North Carolina State University.

The incident began when investigators arrested a student in relation to his alleged involvement in drug activity outside of a residence near a local college campus. Just three days later, authorities returned to the residence for unknown reasons and arrested three others for similar charges. Although it is unclear if authorities executed a search of the residence in question, they claim the investigation led to the discovery of a variety of types and amounts of illegal narcotics.

1 arrested for drunk driving while attempting to apply for job

When being accused of a crime, every individual has rights that must be upheld throughout the process. Unfortunately, many may be unaware of their rights, and furthermore uncertain how to respond to the situation. A 40-year-old man has been arrested and accused of drunk driving after he allegedly drove to a fire station in North Carolina to submit an application while under the influence of alcohol.

According to authorities, the man was attempting to submit an application for employment at a local fire station when he inadvertently interrupted a State Highway Patrol meeting. They claim that he immediately began to show his gratitude for their service, but while doing so, they allegedly detected signs of intoxication. An officer then proceeded to administer a field sobriety test, which he allegedly failed to perform in a satisfactory manner.

Separate traffic stops lead to drug charges for 2

Facing allegations of a traffic violation can be stressful enough in its own right. However, should officers claim to have probable cause to further investigate, the resulting search may leave an individual facing drug charges if illegal substances are found in the process. Two men have been arrested and accused of drug crimes following separate traffic stops that are said to have taken place on the same day in North Carolina.

Law enforcement officials assert the first incident began when they stopped a vehicle for an unspecified traffic violation. While speaking with the driver, police claim to have initiated a search of the vehicle on grounds of probable cause. During this search, they allegedly unearthed the presence of 260 grams of cocaine, and the man was taken into custody and is now facing multiple charges, including drug trafficking.

Teacher accused of drunk driving following argument with friend

Operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol is never advisable and can lead to criminal charges. However, in some cases, one may face drunk driving charges solely based on the words of another party, without being found behind the wheel of a vehicle. An elementary school teacher is facing DWI charges under similar circumstances in North Carolina after a friend allegedly asked her to pull over for her own safety.

According to reports, the incident took place at around 2 a.m. on a recent Monday as authorities spotted a woman standing outside a vehicle in a local parking lot. Officers proceeded to pull over and speak with the woman, who allegedly claimed that she had asked her friend to stop her vehicle. She advised officers that her friend was under the influence of alcohol, and that she was attempting to call a sober driver when the two became engaged in a verbal disagreement.

1 facing drug charges following investigation in North Carolina

After receiving information of the possible presence of drug activity in a particular area, authorities will launch an investigation into the matter. Being the subject of such an investigation can be an intimidating experience, and the situation may only increase in severity should criminal charges be filed. A 51-year-old woman in North Carolina has recently been arrested and is facing numerous drug charges in relation to her alleged involvement in the trafficking of methamphetamine.

According to authorities, the investigation began after they received reports of the possible presence of drug activity at a local residence. This investigation eventually led to the search of numerous locations in the surrounding area, which they assert unearthed the presence of as many as 24 pounds of methamphetamine, along with multiple firearms. In total, 13 individuals were arrested and accused of involvement in drug activity, and authorities claim the woman in question was the leader of the alleged operation.

Collision leads to drunk driving charges for 1 in North Carolina

A 26-year-old woman has been accused of driving under the influence of alcohol in relation to her alleged involvement in a recent collision in North Carolina. Drunk driving charges carry serious penalties, and a conviction could have a substantial impact on a person's life. Those who face similar charges could choose to prepare for what comes next by focusing on their defense, but they might be uncertain where to turn for guidance.

According to authorities, the incident took place just before noon on a recent Thursday, when a driver allegedly failed to stop for a traffic light. Police claim that the woman's vehicle proceeded to collide with an SUV, and that the force of the impact shoved the SUV into two other vehicles. The driver and a passenger in the SUV were taken to a medical facility for treatment of minor injuries.

Meet the Office Mascots


Almost any business whose products or services reach customers in multiple states knows that there are some jurisdictions thought to be friendlier to plaintiffs. Plaintiffs’ lawyers know about those jurisdictions too, and they sometimes try to file lawsuits there with the hope of ratcheting up settlement value.

The U.S. Supreme Court’s May 30, 2017, decision in BNSF Railway Co. v. Tyrrell, No. 16-405, will provide businesses with some protection from such forum shopping. BNSF deals with personal jurisdiction, the collective term for the statutory and constitutional principles that allow the courts of a state to exercise jurisdiction over a defendant only if the defendant has sufficient contacts with the state.

The Supreme Court long ago divided personal jurisdiction into two categories: (1) specific or “case-linked” jurisdiction that applies when a defendant has sufficient contacts with the state and the lawsuit arises from those contacts, and (2) general or “all-purpose” jurisdiction that applies when the lawsuit does not arise from the defendant’s contacts with the state but those contacts are so pervasive that the defendant is generally subject to suit in the state.

BNSF deals with the latter, general form of personal jurisdiction. In that case, two workers claimed on-the-job injuries during their employment with a railroad. The workers did not live in Montana and the injuries did not occur there, but that is where they filed their lawsuits. The Montana Supreme Court held that Montana’s courts could exercise general personal jurisdiction over the railroad because it has more than 2,000 miles of track and more than 2,000 employees in Montana.

The U.S. Supreme Court disagreed and reiterated its three-year-old holding in Daimler AG v. Bauman that the Fourteenth Amendment does not allow an out-of-state defendant to be brought before a state’s courts under a general personal jurisdiction theory unless the defendant’s affiliations with the state are so “continuous and systematic” that the defendant is essentially “at home” in the state.

Justice Ginsburg wrote the majority opinion in BNSF, and all of the other justices except Justice Sotomayor joined that majority. Justice Ginsburg’s opinion makes it clear that plaintiffs relying on general personal jurisdiction will have a particularly high hurdle to clear. If the defendant is neither incorporated in a state nor has its principal place of business there, she wrote, general personal jurisdiction will be appropriate only in “exceptional cases” in which the defendant has contacts “so substantial and of such a nature” that the defendant is “at home” in the state. Owning railroad tracks and having employees in a state is not enough.

Notably, in BNSF, the Montana Supreme Court sought to distinguish Daimler because BNSF arose under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act. The U.S. Supreme Court quickly dispatched that argument and noted that the constitutional constraints on personal jurisdiction apply no matter the nature of the claim or the industry affected.

BNSF is a particularly important decision for the business community because, taken together with Daimler and the Supreme Court’s 2011 decision in Goodyear Dunlop Tires Operations, S.A. v. Brown, it tightens considerably the requirements for general personal jurisdiction. Before Goodyear, when the standard was described more amorphously as requiring “continuous and systematic” contacts, some courts exercised general personal jurisdiction simply because an out-of-state defendant advertised in in-state publications, attended in-state trade shows, or paid occasional service calls on in-state customers. Now, it will likely be rare for a court to exercise general personal jurisdiction over a defendant that is neither incorporated nor physically based in the state in which suit was filed. Indeed, in her dissent, Justice Sotomayor wrote that it is now “virtually inconceivable” that a corporation could be subject to general personal jurisdiction in a state other than where it is incorporated or has its principal place of business.

What does that mean as a practical matter for a business defendant? It will be more difficult for a plaintiff to sue in a jurisdiction unless the claim arises from the defendant’s contacts with the jurisdiction and, accordingly, it will be harder for a plaintiff to forum shop for strategic reasons. While business defendants likely already consider at the outset of each new case whether they are subject to personal jurisdiction, BNSF should give them added incentive and ammunition to treat the propriety of the court’s exercise of personal jurisdiction as anything but a foregone conclusion.


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The Steelcase Gesture Office Chair – Inspired by the Human Body!

The Steelcase Gesture Office Chair is the first chair designed to support our interactions with today’s technologies. It was inspired by the movement of the human body. Created for the way we work today.

Research: Global Posture Study
Steelcase undertook a global posture study in 11 countries, observing 2000 people in a wide range of postures, and uncovered nine new postures as a result of new technologies and new behaviors. They studied how the human body interacts with technologies and how it responds as workers shift from one device to another. Research revealed ergonomic implications that, if not adequately addressed, can cause pain and discomfort for workers.

Because these new postures are not adequately supported, workers are uncomfortable, in pain and doing long-term harm to their bodies. While technology helps productivity, it can cause pain that disrupts our work, our ability to concentrate and be creative.

Design: Inspired by the Human Body

1) The Core Interface:
The Steelcase Gesture Office Chair back and seat move as a synchronized system moving with each user to provide continuous and persistent support. The back cradles the user no matter the posture.

2) The Limb Interface:
The Gesture arm moves like the human arm, which allows users to be supported in any position. Arms and shoulders remain supported when texting on a smartphone, typing on a keyboard or swiping a tablet.

3) The Seat Interface:
The Gesture seat brings comfort all the way to the edges. It is flexible at the perimeter to allow users to sit in a range of postures without obstruction.

The User Interface:
Gesture takes into account various body types and sitting preferences, quickly adjustable to meet the needs of each individual user. Users can adjust Gesture as easily as adjusting their posture.

Why not visit our showroom and see the Steelcase Gesture office chair for yourself. Just give us a call and arrange a time to visit.


Khaled Nayfeh, 25

Korbah, Amman

Khaled heads Korbah, an initiative that empowers youth with the skills and tools they need to improve their professional development and ability to navigate life's challenges.

Korbah provides high school and university students, as well as fresh graduates, with engaging seminars that build their competence and confidence.

Khaled has also committed Korbah to greater social responsibility by reaching out to underprivileged communities.

For every paid workshop in Amman, Korbah plans to create and carry out a similar workshop, free of charge, for those who cannot afford to pay or cannot access such workshops in other areas of the country.


Composite Wood Products

Earlier this month FurnitureCart team has started the Ultimate Guide to Wood Furniture. We have discovered what kinds of wood are usually used for furniture production and common wood finishes. You are welcome to check them out, if you are a newcomer at our blog.

Today we continue with the third and last chapter of our Wooden Furniture Guide. And today we will talk about the composite wood products.

Most probably, when buying the wooden furniture, the customer pays attention to solid woods in the specifications and the list of materials used for the dining set or bed. Actually, we have to be frank: nowadays very often plywood, MDF, and particle board are made of a high quality. So, there is no use disregarding these manufactured wood products. Sometimes it can be difficult to differ a composite wood piece and a solid wood piece of furniture, if the composite wood piece comes covered with a high-quality veneer. Let us discover together the three types of manufactured wood products.

Plywood is flexible, though strong material resistant to cracking, warping, shrinking or swelling. Plywood is made of thin layers of wood that are glued together and pressed. To make the plywood furniture stronger, wood grain of adjacent layers is rotated up to 90 degrees to one another.

Medium-density fibreboard (MDF) is made by means of breaking down hardwood and softwood materials, and then combining it with resin, glue or wax to form panels under high temperature and pressure. As a result, there appears a product that is stronger and more solid than any other wooden materials. Usually it is used for cabinets, cupboards and wardrobes, shelving and bookcases. Though it is heavy material, it is quite easy to cut and finish.

Particle board, also known as low-density fiberboard (LDF) or chipboard, is made of wood chips, sawmill shavings or sawdust, and bound together by synthetic resin or another suitable binder, and pressed. Actually, the process of manufacturing is similar to how MDF is made. Particle board is a part of budget-friendly furniture (kitchens, dining room furniture) and flooring; it is common-used in budget furniture that has a veneered or laminate faсade.

Usually MDF composite wood products do not contain knots or rings, as the natural woods do, making it more uniform to finish, as well as in service. Plywood is frequently used to create curved surfaces as it can easily bend with the grain. Particle board made the huge revolution in wooden furniture design once it appeared, and still continues to make it evolve, by making the prices lower for the final customer.


Learning how to make a guy fall for you: Slough escorts

Are you a “great lady” when it pertains to making guys like you? Do you follow the scripts of previous generations when it pertains to bring in a person? What does it take to get noticed in the modern dating world? Bring in men and hanging on to them is a challenging thing today; read the following to learn the best ways to make guys like you. Your mother’s suggestions on finding a spouse is obsolete. Do not inform her, but you have to do things differently. Contrary to your mother’s recommendations, you will not find that great guy by finding out the best ways to prepare, stitch, and take care of a household in today’s world. This is a various generation with a greatly different outlook on dating and marital relationship.

Slough escorts from https://charlotteaction.org/slough-escorts says that there is really a trick to making a person fall in love? How come some girls make it look so easy? Is it actually all about looks, or exist other factors involved? Looks assistance, but the ability to make a guy fall in love is primarily about attitude and communication. It is impossible to lessen the importance of physical destination in a relationship. This is what generally brings two individuals together to explore the possibility of getting involved in a more serious relationship. Unfortunately contemporary culture has created a distorted view of what is gorgeous that can leave ladies feeling distressed and leave guys with unrealistic expectations. Luckily, the majority of people, guys included, are capable of seeing past the distortion and acknowledging charm in all of its unique variations.

According to Slough escorts that if you wish to make a guy fall in love, you not only have to record him with your appearance, but also with your mindset and interaction skills. Psychological studies show that these 2 factors really surpass the importance of beauty for the typical man. Initially, learn the best ways to accept yourself as you are including your flaws. Remarkably it is often a viewed flaw that will be exceptionally appealing to a guy. How you think actually does impact what you portray to others. Not just must you believe favorably about your appearance, but you should also extend those thoughts to the rest of your life. There are many things in life that run out your control, however the something you do control is how you respond. You are in charge of your responses to life’s circumstances. There are a lot of terrific guys who will appreciate your appearances and who will also value your positive, favorable outlook.

Next learn reliable communication skills. Don’t stress if you are not naturally proficient at communicating. This is a skill that can definitely be found out. If you have trouble communicating, acknowledge it. The majority of people will comprehend and even feel a little relieved. You can say something like “sometimes I have difficulty articulating my sensations, however I desire you to know …” Honesty is most important. Likewise bear in mind that communication isn’t practically talking. Nonverbal communication plays a big role in constructing a relationship, particularly for men. In some cases a remaining hug or a little lively video game of chase can communicate much more powerfully than words. Next time you are feeling a little less than ideal physically, keep in mind that attitude and communication are similarly important in making a man fall in love.


Nixie and sister to Tyg Titter-Tut

The devastation of the Gronzi forest is proof that overlumbering and human greed can turn even the most abundant natural woodlands into a sea of endless stumps. When a crew of greedy loggers came upon a grove of birchwood trees with the intent of making a large payday, they didn’t expect a nixie who resided in a nearby pool to arise and warn them.

When negotiations couldn’t supersede human greed, Melianse scrambled into action and used her magic to charm two loggers causing a heated standstill.

Though, had it not been for the intervention of Nolan Renwicke, bloodshed was avoided that day.

Kingmaker fratmancy


Graduate Seminar, 26th February

Speaker: Szymon Nakoneczny

Title: Natural language processing methods in biological activity prediction and quasar detection in large scale photometric surveys.

Abstract: The first part will focus on my master ‘s thesis. Virtual screening is a process in which databases of chemical compounds are searched in order to f ind structures characterized with a high biological activity, possible drug candidates. The goal is to classify active compounds by combining the natural language processing methods with a text representation of compounds. The second part is going to cover an approach of detecting quasars with means of machine learning. Because it is not possible to fully sample extragalactic objects with spectroscopy, quasars analysis requires a proper automated approach based on photometric surveys. We are going to focus on describing a problem and showing preliminary results of our approach.

Graduate Seminar, 19th February

Speaker: Grzegorz Żarnecki

Title: Measurement of muon-antineutrino charged current cross section with single pion production in the near detector of T2K experiment

Abstract: Cross section measurement is a basic tool to examine agreement between theoretical models and experimental data. The fundamental struggle is to separate signal sample from background events. Decent measurement requires nontrivial methods in order to minimize dependency on the default model and include characteristics of the detector. This will be illustrated on the example of muon-antineutrino CC interaction on carbon with single pion production in ND280 detector of the T2K experiment.

Thesis topic proposal: design, construct and test a prototype neutron detector

Helium-3 isotope is commonly used as detection medium in detectors applied for neutron detection in many fields of industry and physics. The world crisis of He-3 isotope is forcing for a research and development of other neutron detection methods. Recently, a multigrid gas detector based on boron coated blades has been developed at Institut Laue-Langevin (ILL) in Grenoble as an alternative for commonly applied He-3 proportional counters in neutron scattering experiments. However, it may be considered to use this solution for other applications.

Continue reading Thesis topic proposal: design, construct and test a prototype neutron detector

Graduate Seminar 22nd January

Speaker: Joanna Reszczyńska

Title: Hyper-radiosensitivity phenomenon and significance of human individual radiosensitivity in modeling of Low Dose Radiation Biological Effects.

Abstract: For ionization radiation (IR) induced cancer, a linear non-threshold (LNT) model at very low doses is the default used by a number of international organizations and in regulatory law. However, experimental observations and theoretical biology have found that other dose-response curves can exist at those very low doses. This approach includes detailed, molecular descriptions of cells mechanisms to develop a dose-response model either through a set of nonlinear, differential equations or a stochastic approach based on Monte Carlo simulations. Both methods are subject to the body’s reaction.The existence of heritable radiosensitivity syndromes and clinical observations in radiotherapy patients suggests that human cellular radiosensitivity differs among individuals. The assessment of the more radiation-sensitive and the more cancer-prone people is very important issue. This seminar discusses the bases of low-dose hyper-radiosensitivity (HRS) with reference to the molecular regulation of DNA repair and cell cycle control processes. The aim of the presented study was to examine, using the micronucleus (MN) assay, the low-dose radiation response of blood cells lymphocytes from healthy donors and to determine whether the method can be used to verify the hypothesis of the HRS phenomenon occurrence in general population.

Graduate Seminar, 15th January

Speaker: Piotr Kalaczyński

Title: Search for directional correlations of HE muon neutrinos in IceCube and Radio Sources in NVSS

Abstract: The seminar briefly describes IceCube and VLA detectors and the method of angular cross-correlation using power spectra from the multipole expansion of the sky. The analysis aims at determining, whether astrophysical neutrino flux could be originating from extragalactic radio sources contained in the NVSS survey. Since the survey is not exclusively extragalacic, appropriated cuts have to be applied. Performance of the analysis is shown and compared to a standard point-source IceCube analysis.

Graduate seminar, 8th January 2018

Speaker: Paritosh Verma

Title: Gravitational wave signals from highly magnetic accreting millisecond neutron stars

Abstract: This seminar is focused on brief introduction on  gravitational waves as well as their emission from accreting millisecond neutron stars. These binary systems consist of a millisecond pulsar with a rotation period 1-10 ms accreting material from a companion star. Neutron stars can undergo different modes of oscillations, each with different characteristic behavior. Among these, r-modes, or rotational modes, only appear in rotating stars and are caused by the Coriolis force acting as restoring force along the surface of the star. The r-modes have an important role in the physics of millisecond neutron stars: they excite the emission of gravitational waves which carry away energy and angular momentum from the star and lead to differential rotation.

Graduate Seminar, 18th December

Speaker: Albin Nilsson

Title: The Standard Model Extension, Gravitational tests and Cosmology

Abstract: Combining the standard model and general relativity into quantum gravity is a task which has occupied physicists for over 50 years. These two theories are expected to merge at the Planck scale (E_p \approx 10^{19} GeV). However, experiments at this energy are beyond the reach of humanity at present. As such, we need a way to study the Planck scale effects that trickle down to accessible energies, thereby learning about the true dynamics of quantum gravity. This can be done using effective field theory, and since many theories of quantum gravity predict Lorentz and/or CPT violation, searching for signals of this is a good place to start. The Standard Model Extension (SME) is an effective field theory containing the standard model of particle physics, general relativity, as well as all possible operators which break Lorentz symmetry. Since CPT violation implies Lorentz violation, the SME also includes operators which both break and preserve CPT symmetry. In this talk, I will describe the structure of the SME, focusing on the gravitational sector. I will review some of the gravitational tests performed and discuss how we can study the SME in a cosmological setting

Graduate seminar, 11th December

Speaker: Szymon Domański

Title: Application of the ultrahigh dose thermoluminescence dosimetry for radiation-hardness testing

Abstract: In radiation processing, where large absorbed doses and dose rates from photon sources have to be measured with reasonable accuracy, dosimetry systems serve an important function. Proven methods are demanded to perform radiation measurements in development of new processes, validation, qualification, and verification of established processes and archival documentation of day to day processing uniformity. Implementation a system corresponding to recognised standards from scratch is not the simplest task. However, it is possible. During my presentation I wish to discuss the possible application of LiF:Mg,Cu,P thermoluminescence phosphor in the field of material testing.


Arizona Woodpeckers: Pictures and Information

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picture of a red-shafted Northern Flicker, one of the Arizona woodpeckers

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Anyone looking for additional identification help can press the green birds button.

Arizona woodpeckers are a group that tourists ought not miss, especially because the southern part of the state hosts three woodpecker species not seen in other areas of the United States: The Gilded Flicker, the Gila Woodpecker and the Arizona Woodpecker.

Arizona also ranks as one of the most diverse woodpecker states, hosting fourteen difefrent species in four of the five native woodpecker genera. Only the Pileated Woodpecker (Dryocopus) fails to find a home in the state. Of special note, all four of the native sapsucker species have been documented in the state. Here’s the official run down.

Flickers (genus Colaptes) are common back yard birds in Arizona. Throughout the state, the Red-shafted Northern Flicker search the ground for insects in fields and residential areas. The male pictured at the top of the page, is distinguished from the female by the red patch on the cheek.

picture of a Gilded Flicker woodpecker
The Gilded Flicker is Arizona’s second Colaptes species. It’s a regional specialty bird of the Arizona desert. The picture shows the gray face and red mustache of the male and it’s similar to the look of the male Red-shafted Northern Flicker. The yellow wings under the tail resemble the yellow wings of the Yellow-shafted Northern Flicker.

They are year round residents of their area and cavity nest in Saguaro cacti or any larger trees in their territory. Like other flickers they are ground foragers. They are also well adapted to residential areas.

Woodpeckers: Melanerpes

picture of an acorn woodpecker
Arizona also hosts three of te six native Melanerpes species. The Acorn woodpecker, perhaps the best known Arizona species, inhabits oak groves, where it spends its days gathering acorns. Once gathered, the acorns get stored in tree holes or nearby wooden structures such as fences and telephone poles. Unlike most woodpecker species, both the male and female have a red crown.

picture of a Lewis's Woodpecker

In the wild, they consume a variety of common insects in their territory, including ants, bees and wasps. The White Mountains and areas around Flagstaff are the best places to look for them.

picture of a Gila Woodpecker
Southern Arizona and the Saguaro Desert define the Gila Woodpecker territorial boundaries. There is a bit of overflow population in the neighboring states of California and New Mexico.

Saguaro cacti and other large trees in their territory provide ample places for their cavity nests. They tend to eat a variety of insects, fruits and nuts, whatever is in season. Additionally, they are very adaptable birds and readily take to residential areas. That makes it quite easy to entice them to feeders.

Gila Woodpeckers also look different from other Melanerpes species such as the Acorn Woodpecker and Red-headed woodpecker. The picture shows the bird’s rather bland looking tan feathers. The male has a red crown on the top of the head.

Woodpeckers: Picoides

picture of an Arizona Woodpecker
The Arizona Woodpecker ranks among the least ranging of all North American woodpecker species. It’s primarily a Mexican species and it spills over the border to Southwest New Mexico and Southeast Arizona.

As the picture shows, it’s also the only native species with brown and white feathers.

picture of a Three-toed Woodpecker
When the woodpecker discussion turns to climate, the American Three-toed Woodpecker gets the nod as the most hardy of the native woodpecker species. It breeds farther north than any other American woodpecker.

Populations in the far north and high mountains may migrate to the valleys, and on rare occurrences even further south, during the winter. According to the Arizona Game and Fish Department,

In Arizona, these woodpeckers occur in higher elevations of the White Mountains, Mogollon Rim, San Francisco Peaks, Kaibab Plateau and the Chuska Mountains on the Navaj

picture of a downy woodpecker
North America’s most diverse woodpecker genera, Picoides, records nine separate species. The smallest and most common Picoides, the Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens) adapts equally well to most wilderness and residential areas with trees.

picture of a male ladder-backed woodpecker
Less wide ranging, the Ladder-backed woodpecker (Picoides scalaris) makes its home in a variety of Southwest habitats, from cacti to forest areas. A pattern of striped feathers on the back and spots on the breast provide initial identification marks. Males, like the one in picture two also have a red cap. Ladder-backed Woodpeckers look very similar to Nuttall’s Woodpecker, another Picoides species. However, Nuttall’s are limited to the coastal areas of California.

In that small area where the species overlap, the two species are known to inter-breed.

picture of a Hairy Woodpecker

They are a very common species across the United States because they are adaptable to forests and residential areas alike. Look for them at the backyard feeder.

Arizona Woodpeckers: Sapsuckers

While none of the sapsucker species are endemic to Arizona, the presence of all four native sapsucker species says nothing says Arizona woodpeckers like the sapsuckers.

picture of a red-naped sapsuckerThe Red-naped Sapsucker picks up its range where the Red-breasted Sapsucker range ends, the forest areas of the Rocky Mountain region. They are migratory and while some will take to the valleys of the Rocky Mountains during the winter months, many also Sapsuckers winter in Mexico, and central America. When they migrate to the valleys they are often seen in residential areas.

picture of a red-breasted sapsucker
Four sapsucker species (Sphyrapicus) drill their wells in trees from coast to coast. The Red-breasted Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus ruber), pictured above, the West Coast variant, spend their summers in higher elevation forests near rivers and streams. Some populations migrate down to the valleys during winters.

picture of a Williamson's Sapsucker
Williamson’s Sapsuckers inhabit the mountain areas of the West, including the Rocky Mountains, the Cascades and the Sierra Nevada.

Of special interest is that males and females diverge in their physical appearance. Males, like the one pictured, have distinct black feathers on the head, complimented by white striped and a red throat. Females have brown feathers on the head and and black and white barred feather pattern on the body. Both sexes have yellow bellies.

Like other sapsuckers, they are not typical feeder birds, only occasional.

picture of a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

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Transport-regulated immunity

To better understand the multi-layered immune responses plants mount against invading microbes, our research addresses transport-regulated immunity through the engagement of the secretory and endocytic trafficking pathways. Our research covers the spectrum of transport-regulated immunity in four major areas:

  1. Endocytic transport: What are the cargo and molecular determinants that control immune receptor localization and sorting? How does inhibition of endocytosis affect immune receptor responses?
  2. Secretory transport: What are the cargoes that are secreted upon immune stimulation? What are the mechanisms that regulate their trafficking? And how do these cargoes fight pathogens?
  3. Pathogen-targeted transport: What are the effectors by which pathogens modulate subcellular transport? How do they function?
  4. Transport-regulated stomatal immunity: What is the biomechanical basis of cell dynamics in closure/opening of stomata? And what are the molecular regulators and subcellular transport processes that translate immune signalling into a biomechanical response?

Prominent vesicle cargoes include plasma membrane-localized receptors that mediate the perception of microbe-associated molecular patterns and trigger immunity. Well-known examples include the FLAGELLIN SENSING 2 (FLS2) and EF-TU receptor kinases responsible for the recognition of bacterial flagellin (flg22) and EF-TU (elf18), respectively, and the Cf receptor-like proteins, which were initially identified as resistance (R) proteins conferring immunity against specific races of Cladosporium fulvum fungi.

We are applying a combination of live-cell imaging techniques, genetic, biochemical and molecular biological approaches to dissect the subcellular transport processes and their role in plant immunity. In particular, we develop methods that allow quantitative, high-throughput imaging to advance plant cell biology towards more unbiased, “omics”-type approaches, and as a result have generated a number of image analysis tools (

Identifying cargoes and the molecular switches involved in transport-regulated immunity will allow understanding how plants defend pathogens. Knowledge obtained from this study can be used as strategy in modern crop breeding such as facilitating the large-scale phenotyping.

All published materials are available on request.

These seeds are available in NASC:

N2105602 – Ws-0/FLS2p::FLS2-3myc-GFP (Robatzek et al. Genes Dev 2006)
N2105603 – Col-0/FLS2p::FLS2-3myc-GFP (Beck et al. Plant Cell 2012)
N2106713 aca8 (Frei dit Frey et al. Plant Physiol 2010)
N2106712aca10 (Frei dit Frey et al. Plant Physiol 2010)
N2105598 aca8 aca10 (Frei dit Frey et al. Plant Physiol 2010)
N2105599 – aca8 35S::ApoAeq (Frei dit Frey et al. Plant Physiol 2010)
N2105600 aca10 35S::ApoAeq (Frei dit Frey et al. Plant Physiol 2010)
N2105601 aca8 aca10 35S::ApoAeq (Frei dit Frey et al. Plant Physiol 2010)

You can find our published plasmids here:

Our research is supported by the Gatsby Charitable Foundation , the European Research Council (ERC), the German Research Council (DFG), the ERASMUS program, and Industry funds. Our research is also supported by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), as part of the Institute Strategic Programme on Biotic Interactions for Crop Productivity (BIO) in collaboration with the John Innes Centre.