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Dr. Luisa Blanco Authors "The Impact of Judicial Reform on Crime Victimization and Trust in Institutions in Mexico"
Luisa Blanco, associate professor of public policy, authored an article "The Impact of Judicial Reform on Crime Victimization and Trust in Institutions in Mexico," in Violence and Victims (Volume 31, Number 1, 2016). This article studies the impact of judicial reform in Mexico. It does so using a survey about crime victimization and perceptions of insecurity (Encuesta Nacional Sobre la Inseguridad ) collected in 2005, 2008, and 2009 in 11 Mexican cities, 3 of which implemented the reform in 2007 and 2008. The analysis shows that judicial reform not only reduces victimization but also lowers perceptions of security. Although we find that judicial reform has a negative effect on trust in the local and federal police, judicial reform reduces the probability of being asked by the transit police for a bribe. | <urn:uuid:d3f7605c-170a-43df-84d1-221dae4110de> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://publicpolicy.pepperdine.edu/newsroom/articles/dr-luisa-blanco-authors-impact-judicial-reform-crime-victimization-and-trust.htm | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.906445 | 188 | 1.914063 | 2 |
Authors & Events
NANCY MITFORD (1904–1973) was the eldest daughter of Lord Redesdale. She grew up with her five sisters and one brother on the family estate. A beauty and a wit, she became one of the “bright young things” of the 1920s, and a close friend of Henry Green, Evelyn Waugh, John Betjeman, and their circle. She began writing novels while in her twenties. In all, she wrote eight novels and four biographies (of Madame de Pompadour, Louis XIV, Voltaire, and Frederick the Great).
Radlett and Montdore
Everyman’s Library Contemporary Classics Series
Visit other sites in the Penguin Random House Network
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Start earning points for buying books! Just for joining you’ll get personalized recommendations on your dashboard daily and features only for members. | <urn:uuid:6ebfeb00-6e73-4e1c-96e2-ed27630649c0> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/authors/20908/nancy-mitford | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.941092 | 224 | 2.09375 | 2 |
A country just the size of Wales, yet packed with the biodiversity of the Amazon, Costa Rica is a paradise for nature-lovers. With a fantastic network of national parks covering over a quarter of the country and an impressive tourism infrastructure to get you around, this is the place to visit for outdoor enthusiasts of all varieties.
Costa Rica is a premier destination for fans of breathtaking nature, fascinating wildlife, pristine beaches, and adventure. Whether you want to spend your time on a surfboard or yoga mat, descending into bat-filled caves or ascending misty volcanic peaks, whether you’ve got a penchant for hiking, biking or ziplining – in Costa Rica your only limit is your return date.
You’ll start in the capital; San José, where you will likely be met with calls of “Pura Vida”. Here it means “pure life” and it is used as a greeting, farewell and saying that locals use. San Jose is sat in the heart of the country and is, therefore, the ideal jumping-off point for your tours and activities to the surrounding Central Valley. Nestled between mountain ranges, this area is renowned for its production of coffee, and the vistas of the awe-inspiring active volcanoes Irazu and Poás.
Next, you’ll visit an array of national parks and reserves that Costa Rica has to offer, brimming with exotic flora and wildlife, and packed with a multitude of hiking options along the national park trails or experiencing the rainforest from a unique perspective with a canopy tour.
Then you could travel south, to the Osa Peninsula. Sat jutting into the South Pacific the biodiversity here is simply enormous. This is where you will find the Corcovado National Park. Engulfing over 40,000 hectares and a protected biosphere for more than 141 species of mammals, 400 species of birds, 116 species of reptiles and amphibians, 40 species of fish, and at least 500 species of tree.
Costa Rica is bordered by two oceans, the Atlantic Ocean in the east, and the Pacific Ocean in the west. The coasts are very different in their culture and style, yet both offer stunning beaches and charming villages with beautiful hotels and lodges. If you opt for the more remote Caribbean beaches you can expect more wild vegetation, especially around the Cahuita National Park, known for its coral reefs. Over in the West, The Pacific beaches are a touch more developed and come complete with beautiful hotels and excellent restaurants.
Dependant on when you arrive in Costa Rica, you can expect to see water turtles use the beaches for nesting, or dolphins playing through the cool clear waters. During January to March, you could also spot whales on their migration through the Pacific Ocean. | <urn:uuid:564b24ec-7974-4ef6-a8f7-899fe507dd2e> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.savilerowtravel.com/destinations/costa-rica/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572089.53/warc/CC-MAIN-20220814234405-20220815024405-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.924459 | 571 | 1.84375 | 2 |
Carbon nanotubes may be the key to shrinking down transistors and squeezing more computer power into less space.
Historically, the number of transistors that can be crammed onto a computer chip has doubled every two years or so, a trend known as Moore’s law. But that rule seems to be nearing its limit: Today’s silicon transistors can’t get much smaller than they already are.
Carbon nanotubes may offer a sizable solution. In the June 30 Science, IBM researchers report a carbon-nanotube transistor with an overall width of 40 nanometers — the smallest ever. It’s about half the size of typical silicon transistors.
Researchers have created carbon-nanotube transistors with certain supersmall components before, but the whole package was still bulky, says study coauthor Qing Cao of IBM’s Thomas J. Watson Research Center in Yorktown Heights, N.Y. The new study confirms that, in terms of size, carbon-nanotube transistors can beat out silicon — and that’s no small feat. | <urn:uuid:57664aeb-e165-4608-a2b0-deda3c9202f3> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.sciencenews.org/article/incredible-shrinking-transistor-just-got-smaller | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572089.53/warc/CC-MAIN-20220814234405-20220815024405-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.904965 | 227 | 3.65625 | 4 |
An extraordinary story against all the odds…
He vowed in his letter to one day meet her again, once the war was over. But it was a letter Maria couldn’t bring herself to read…
Growing up in the humble Spanish town of Fuentes, Maria dreamed of seeing the world and marrying one day. But before her life can truly start, civil war breaks out and Fuentes is torn apart by violence, secrecy and corruption.
Maria vows to take a stand, yet as an unspeakable tragedy rocks her trust in human decency, her heart hardens and the love she once believed in seems far out of reach. But when she falls for an occupying soldier, she questions whether she can truly love someone who is her enemy?
As I’m writing this review after finishing A Forbidden Love I’m still feeling overwhelmed and in awe by the book because it realy left a big impression on me. It took me a good while to read it but I wanted to take my sweet time with it because I knew I wanted to absorb each and every word. Obviously it was an amazing read but even more than that it was an important one as well.
I’m finding it’s kind of hard writing this review because I’m still reeling for everything that happened in it. I’m gonna start with saying that before reading this book I knew pretty much nothing about the Spanish Civil War. I was never taught anything about it in school, which now seems like a real shame because it was such an important and devastating event in human history. And we can’t ever forget it.
As horryfing some of the events in this book were I really did love the story. I’d even say it’s one of my favorite historical fiction novels I’ve read so far this year. The story gripped me so hard that sometimes I was almost in tears because of it. I don’t think we’re necessarily supposed to like the main character, Maria. She’s sixteen years old at the start of this book, when the Civil War started and she was rather self-indulgent but who wasn’t like this at that age? But even so I actually did like her, which is kinda surprising because I usually tend to lean more towards disliking such characters. But Maria was also courageous, tough and independent. I came to admire her growth throughout the novel. I also totally loved her father. He was probably my favorite character if I have to name one.
Even though I wasn’t too familiar with the Spanish Civil War, I could definitely tell that Kerry Postle did a lot of research and poured her heart into this book. It really shows and that was a huge part of why this book stood out to me so much. Of course I had hoped to like it after I read the author’s previous book, The Artist’s Muse (which was a favorite of mine in 2017) so I’m ectastic that I enjoyed it as much as I did.
I also want to say that, since I know my blog readers like to know about if the romance was any good or if it took over the plot, and I’m happy to say that no, it didn’t. Personally I felt like the romance wasn’t like the main focus of it all. Yes, it played a part in the story obviously since the title is A Forbidden Romance but it didn’t overshadow anything else. And I really liked that.
A Forbidden Love by Kerry Postle was a beautifully written story about a terrible time in history for Spain. It’s not a happy book but I’m sure it will leave readers satisfied in the end and maybe even wiping a tear away like I did. The writing was absolutely amazing and the characters were all so close to my heart. Especially Maria and her father. I can’t help but highly recommend this book whether or not you like history or romance. I think it would be a great read for everyone!
Website | Twitter | HarperCollins UK | Amazon | <urn:uuid:a4856c8d-54da-4257-99e0-c03e49334885> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://bookfever11.com/2019/04/11/review-forbidden-love-by-kerry-postle/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.982361 | 852 | 1.640625 | 2 |
5 Simple Questions That Will Help You Quickly Evaluate Anyone’s Intelligence
There are questions that help us “peek” into people’s minds and understand what kind of a person you are dealing with. Not only do these questions help you understand people you already know, but also the people you’re just meeting for the first time.
At Bright Side, we guarantee that if you listen to the thoughts of an interlocutor following any of these 5 questions, you will learn many interesting things about them. And if by chance their thoughts match yours, it’s likely that you are dealing with your soulmate.
“How do you usually hang out?” This question will let you know:
- the habits of a person
- their character (for example, whether they’re lazy, a whiner, an optimist, etc.)
- their level of income
- their number of friends (and therefore, their ability to keep good relationships)
- the person’s hobbies and how interesting they are in general
“If you had a billion dollars, how would you spend it?” This question will help to find out:
- a person’s life values and priorities
- what they lack in life
- their degree of selfishness
- their ambitions
- their moral principles and level of intellect
The next one should be a provocative question. Simply raise a topic that can cause debate. For example, you can ask the interlocutor about their attitude toward political parties, vegetarians or feminists. It would be good if you manage to check how they perceive opinions that contradict the ones they have. Also, it will help you to learn:
- the general worldview of a person
- how strong their intellect is
- if they’re prone to aggression
- if they’re a person who likes to talk a lot of nonsense and is unable to make conclusions from their own reasonings
- how tolerant they are to opinions of another people
- how tolerant they are in general
- if they are sure in their arguments
- whether it is easy to manipulate this person
- whether they have their own opinion in general
The next stage includes a question offering to solve a kind of moral dilemma. For example, you can ask a question like, “If you had the ability to be invisible, would you feel obliged to follow generally accepted norms?”
- In this case, it will be interesting to listen to a person’s reasoning and opinion to learn about their principles and see if they match yours.
“What would you change in this world?” This is the last question from our list. Pay attention to which things your interlocutor wants to “change”. It will help you to learn what periods he emphasizes more — past, present or future. Also, you’ll be able to learn:
- the degree of a person’s selfishness
- how global their thoughts and mind are
Do you think these questions can really help you distinguish a soulmate or understand that communication with the person should be stopped? Please tell us about it in the comments! | <urn:uuid:e75ea0a9-5d88-44ba-a208-ccd3311e7d4e> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://brightside.me/wonder-curiosities/5-simple-questions-that-will-help-you-quickly-evaluate-anyones-intelligence-642660/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.955838 | 677 | 2.046875 | 2 |
Well, current SMTP specifications allow for anyone to use any domain
in either the rfc2821 identities, or any place in rfc2822. All
authentication schemes intend to change that.
AFAIK, none of SSL, TLS, or SMTP AUTH make any such change.
well, it depends on what you mean by "being able to use any domain"
for instance, SSL/TLS server certificates do not allow the server to
[convincingly] claim to be any domain it wants to be within the SSL/TLS
protocol. they don't try to restrict the server's domain name
according to the IP address, and they don't inherently impose
constraints on what domains the protocols layered over SSL or TLS use.
what they do is allow a server to convincingly claim to be a domain -
if the client trusts the CA in the server certificate.
similar limitations apply to client certs.
whether it's appropriate for the higher-layer protocol to expect its
domains to match those in the SSL/TLS certificates varies from one
protocol to another. in the case of email, it's generally not
reasonable for an SMTP client or server to expect the domains in EHLO,
HELO, MAIL, or RCPT to match those used at the SSL or TLS layer,
because third-party relaying is an extremely useful feature of the SMTP | <urn:uuid:30d49d47-23f4-4b3d-bda2-123b43b3fd22> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.mhonarc.org/archive/html/ietf-822/2005-03/msg00023.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.881585 | 306 | 1.984375 | 2 |
This is the latest tip in a series of ”50 Tips for Free Publicity” which I’m pinning on Pinterest. Follow me there, and if you like my tips, comment and repin. Just click the button with the red “Pin It” above.
* * *
Beginning do-it-yourself publicity seekers make this mistake frequently. They confuse a press release with a press kit (same as a media kit).
A press release is simply part of a press kit.
A press kit is a compilation of information for the media, for bloggers, or for anyone who wants more background, details, photos or graphics of you or your company.
Two decades ago, a press kit typically included a folder that held press releases, bios, a one-page summary of a company’s background, fact sheets, frequently asked questions, and photos.
These days, the information is essentially the same, but the material is accessible from your website, usually under one of the navigational buttons. Today’s press kits should also include links to videos if you have them, and links to your social media profiles.
Do’s and Don’ts for Your Press Kit:
- Do update it frequently. It’s amazing how quickly the information can become stale.
- Don’t send press kits unsolicited to media contacts, bloggers or anyone else, particularly if you want them to cover you. If you want to get their attention, you must send a customized pitch. Iit’s essential that you research journalists and bloggers before pitching them, looking for as much information as you can about what they cover as well as personal details you might want to weave into the pitch.
- If you send them a customized pitch and they want more information for the story, you can send them a link to your press kit. Don’t send the kit as an attachment.
- Make high-resolution photos available at at least 300 dots per inch.
Do’s and Don’t s for Your Press Releases
- Use press releases primarily to post online, preferably through a paid press release distribution service like eReleases. Owner Mickie Kennedy is giving away The Big Press Release Samples Book that includes 35 industry-specific press releases and 40 occasion-specific press releases, plus tips for formatting your press release and getting it noticed.
- You can also use press releases as collateral material for the media, bloggers, or anyone who wants more information on whatever you’ve written about.
- If a media contact has asked for a copy of your press release, either send them a link where they can find it online, or put the release in the body of the email. Don’t send it as an attachment.
What other materials do you include in your press kit? Or how have you used your press kit to promote yourself or your business or nonprofit?
* * *
My free email course, “89 Ways to Write Powerful Press Releases,” includes full instructions on how to write and districute your press releases. It’s an 11-week course, delivered by email, and you can work at your own speed. The entire course is also available as an ebook. | <urn:uuid:1792eaaa-9628-47ed-b86e-cc45dd51c57c> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://publicityhound.com/blog/the-difference-between-a-press-release-and-a-press-kit?replytocom=5927 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.920593 | 675 | 1.671875 | 2 |
Immigration Information & Resources
As required by law, Hays Consolidated Independent School District provides equal educational opportunities to all students who are eligible to attend the District. In compliance with those laws, Hays CISD does not and will not deny enrollment based on a student’s immigration status.
The Hays CISD District Board of Trustees recognizes the local education concerns that have been raised by the national debate on, and the implementation and enforcement of, current immigration laws. On Monday, February 20, 2017, in an effort to alleviate these concerns, while also carrying out its duties as set forth by law and Board policies, the Hays CISD Board passed a resolution expressing its position on the matter.
School Board Immigration Resolution
The Hays CISD Board resolution expresses the same legal tenets found in the mission of the Texas public education system: to ensure that all Texas children have access to a quality education that enables them to achieve their full potential and fully participate now and in the future in the social, economic, and educational opportunities in Texas and the nation. As stated in the Texas Education Code, that mission is grounded on the conviction that a general diffusion of knowledge is essential for the welfare of Texas and for the preservation of the liberties and rights of Texas citizens.
READ THE RESOLUTION
Special thank you to our neighbor Austin ISD for preparing a comprehensive list of common questions. We have adopted many of their questions and answers - adjusted, of course, to reflect information specific to Hays CISD.
Does a child's immigration status affect his or her ability to attend Hays CISD schools?
No. Hays CISD provides a public education to all children who reside within the district's boundaries, or are otherwise eligible to enroll in the District, regardless of the student's or parents' immigration status. As the U.S. Supreme Court has stated, undocumented children and children of undocumented parents have the same right to attend Hays CISD as do other eligible U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Citation: Plyer vs. Doe, 457 U.S. 202 (1982)
Does Hays CISD collect information about student and parent immigration status and report that information to anyone?
No. Hays CISD does not collect immigration information about our students or families because it does not change the district's obligation to educate eligible students.
I have a student at Hays CISD and I am worried that he or she will be bullied or harassed because of what is happening nationally. What should I do?
Hays CISD does not tolerate bullying or harassment of any kind. If you believe your child has experienced bullying or harassment, please visit the district's webpage for instructions to report bullying and harassment.
I have been approached by Hays CISD families and staff members looking for information about immigration and support services. What resources are available?
Hays CISD is a public school district focused on education and, as such, the District provides a variety of resources for all students, including refugee students, immigrant students and English language learners. The Department of Bilingual, ESL, and Migrant Programs may be able to assist with specific school-related issues and concerns.
Additionally, the external links provided at right may be of assistance to students and families who are in need of additional resources.
I work for Hays CISD and an outside group has asked me to distribute documents to my students. What resources, if any, can be given to students?
District staff may not directly distribute non-school materials to students or send such information home. However, such outside resources, including literature, brochures, and pamphlets, may be made available at your campus on the table or bulletin board designated for non-school materials. However, remember that these materials must be submitted to the public information office for prior review in accordance with Hays CISD Board Policy GKDA (Local).
If you have any questions, please contact the public information officer at [email protected].
I am a Hays CISD employee and would like to participate in some political activities regarding national events. Is this ok?
Yes, Hays CISD employees can engage in political activities on their own time and using their own resources. Under state law and district policy, using any school district resources, including copy machines and email, to participate in such political activity is strictly prohibited.
I teach for Hays CISD and I think current events would make a meaningful lesson plan. Can I discuss these topics in the classroom?
Maybe, depending on what you are assigned to teach. For example, political activities and differing viewpoints may be appropriate in government, sociology, humanities, debate, world cultures, and history classes. In any such class discussions, teachers should be careful not to take one side in the discussion and should ensure respectful class discussions that include opposing viewpoints. As government employees, Hays CISD may not give the appearance of taking sides while on the job. While this can be difficult, it is important to remember there are impassioned views on both sides of the current issues. As public school educators, we must practice and exhibit respectful and fair behavior.
I work at a Hays CISD school. What should I do if a law enforcement officer comes to a school?
If law enforcement officials, including ICE officers, come to the campus, they should be referred to the campus administrator. That administrator may request verification of the officer’s identity and evidence of legal authority to engage in law enforcement at a school, such as a written directive by an authorized superior or a signed warrant.
School personnel are not permitted to interfere with lawful law enforcement activity. Doing so could subject yourself to possible arrest. Please notify the superintendent's office immediately if a law enforcement officer is attempting to access the campus and you believe they lack proper authority to do so.
These links direct you to organizations not affiliated with Hays CISD. The information there has been created, published, maintained or otherwise posted by these organizations, and Hays CISD does not vet, endorse, approve, certify or control these external web sites, so does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, efficacy, or timeliness of information located at such addresses.
Hays CISD cannot provide legal advice to students or families and use of any information obtained from such non-district web addresses is voluntary. Any reliance the information at these sites should only be undertaken after an independent review of its accuracy, completeness, efficacy and timeliness. | <urn:uuid:efe63fe3-9677-4c60-917f-d7a2216df05d> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.hayscisd.net/Page/562 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.956758 | 1,346 | 2.015625 | 2 |
- Fulbright Award (2004)
Rick Bein is a professor of geography in the School of Liberal Arts at IUPUI and an adjunct professor of geography at Moi University in Kenya. He earned a B.A. from the University of Colorado in 1969 and a Ph.D. from the University of Florida in 1974. Bein joined IUPUI’s faculty in 1978. Over his career, he has served as an adjunct or visiting professor in Kenya, Mozambique, Khartoum, Brazil, and North Dakota. Bein also served as director of the Environmental Management Center at the University of Technology in Papua New Guinea from 1996 to 2000. Bein’s research focuses on tropical agriculture and environments. Bein received a Fulbright Award to study at the Faculty of Agronomy and Forestry Engineering at Eduardo Mondlane University in Maputo, Mozambique from 2004 to 2005 and continued his work there as a Fulbright senior specialist in the summer of 2006. He received a number of other awards for his work including the IUPUI Chancellor’s Faculty Award for Excellence in Civic Engagement in 2009, Legion of Honor Award for life long service to K-12 Geographic Education in Indiana from the Geography Educators Network of Indiana in 2008, and the Distinguished Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching, Research and Service from IUPUI in 1982. Bein is a board member with the Geography Educator Network of Indiana, Marion County Soil & Water Conservation, and Indiana Partners of Americas where he also serves as vice president. | <urn:uuid:57ba4898-c873-4c51-8116-d22a191975f9> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://honorsandawards.iu.edu/awards/honoree/1382.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.963362 | 326 | 1.617188 | 2 |
The IP40-IP67 protection type Binder power connector types are designed for rated currents up to 25A. Different variations are available in the outer diameters of 25 - 40mm. The multi-pole power connectors are primarily used in mechanical engineering and are available with screw and bayonet locking. The RD 24 machine connectors are overmoulded with VDE, SEV and UL certified cables and also available with crimp terminals for machined crimp contacts. The power connector types are, for example, used in heavy rectangular connectors to DIN 43 652.
These power plug connector types include M 23 circular connectors, IP 67 bayonet circular connectors, M 25 circular connectors, RD 24 machine connectors and RD 30 circular connectors. | <urn:uuid:72767dd6-2c55-4b63-8d90-db487a13f19f> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.4most.co.uk/connectors/circular-connectors/circular-multipole-connectors/binderconnectors/binder-power-connectors | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.877293 | 149 | 1.5 | 2 |
At Calvary (Years I Spent in Vanity and Pride)
by D. B. Towner
Years I spent in vanity and pride
Caring not my Lord was crucified
Knowing not it was for me He died on Calvary
Mercy there was great, and grace was free
Pardon there was multiplied to me
There my burdened soul found liberty at Calvary
By God's Word at last my sin I learned
Then I trembled at the law I'd spurned
Till my guilty soul imploring turned to Calvary
Now I've given to Jesus everything
Now I gladly own Him as my King
Now my raptured soul can only sing of Calvary!
O, the love that drew salvation's plan!
O, the grace that brought it down to man!
O, the mighty gulf that God did span at Calvary!
William R. Newell (1868-1956) is remembered fondly as a pastor, evangelist, Bible teacher, author, conference speaker and writer of the beloved hymn At Calvary. And he is remembered as a humble man who recognized that it was only by the grace of God that he was able to accomplish so many good things.
William was a very troubled and wayward teenager. In desperation, his father wrote to the president of Moody Bible Institute, and begged him to allow the enrollment of his son. Since the college was open to serious Bible students, the president was at first resistant, but finally agreed that Newell would be enrolled with the proviso that he would meet with the president daily, and would take his studies seriously.
A father's prayers, a college president's commitment, and the three steps forward, two steps back efforts of Newell eventually resulted in the young man not only graduating, but several years later returning to Moody Bible Institute as a teacher.
In 1895, William Newell put the testimony of his life into poetry format. His friend and fellow Bible teacher, Doctor Daniel Towner, Director of music at Moody Bible, read the words and knew they would be powerful when put to music. The result was the beautiful hymn At Calvary. | <urn:uuid:c422bf36-3cdd-49a9-8e7c-32bcc07d05d0> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://melodia.ro/songs/Multa-vreme-eu-am-ratacit | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.98066 | 506 | 1.984375 | 2 |
The onset of colder winter months means figuring out how to keep your house warm and should be a top concern for all homeowners. After all, the amount that you pay in heating costs can greatly increase when temperatures reach below zero.
Some of the best ways to keep your house warm in the winter, while keeping utility bills low, is a combination of things easily done by a homeowner, while other strategies are best done by a professional home heating service.
Cochran Oil can help you in both ways. Our home heating experts not only know how to keep your heating system running in top shape – we identify areas throughout the house where homeowners can take charge.
We’ve listed several of those things our home heating specialists might suggest to any homeowner. Focus on insulatingyour home – it’s the most important part of keeping it warm throughout the winter, and you’ll be surprised by how many small projects can effectively help you do this.
Ways to Keep Your House Warm This Winter
Some of the suggestions may seem obvious, but they have been tried and tested by homeowners and home heating specialists for decades.
1. Rugs – Carpeting increases the insulation capabilities of a home, which means less heat escapes.
Wood and linoleum flooring get very cold in the winter when the heat isn’t blasting. That means your heating system is working overtime to overcome the cold emanating from your floors.
Large rugs or wall-to-wall carpeting, helps keep cold emanating from the floors, which then cools the air further. Plus, walking on carpets in the wintertime is much more enjoyable than walking on wood or linoleum.
2. Curtains – Windows are one of the leading sources of “heat bleed” – the act of heat produced by your heating system escaping through openings in your home.
Thick curtains keep heat from reaching the windows, which means less heat escapes. If used in tandem with heavy drapes, this will result in helping to keep your house warm in extreme cold.
3. Blocking Gaps – Blocking gaps is a simple approach to battling heat bleed.
Whether you install a plastic or fabric door bottom to seal a gap between a door and the floor, or you roll plastic over windowsills to isolate the window from the inside space, you’re blocking gaps.
You may not know that there can be gaps throughout your home. For instance, the attic is one of the spaces in your home most responsible for losing heat.
Very often, people think that these measures are enough to keep a house warm in extreme cold, but the value of an end-to-end heating inspection of your home – from the gaps in your attic to the need for a new boiler – cannot be understated.
How to Keep Your House Warm in the Winter
Heating professionals approach the insulation and optimization of your heating system in a different way than the homeowner.
Heating technicians at Cochran Oil come to every home with only one goal in mind – saving you money on utilities, either immediately or in the long run.
With that said, heating professionals have a wide variety of options to choose from when trying to keep your house warm during the winter.
1. The Boiler – In many cases, the boiler in a home may be old.
Older boilers may not running at peak efficiency, most likely need maintenance, or need to be replaced outright.
A properly maintained boiler will run at peak efficiency, delivering heat throughout the home in the desired manner.
If a new boiler is needed, there could be significant up-front costs., Yet, over the lifetime of your new oil or gas boiler, you’ll see substantial savings. If you are not planning to leave your home anytime soon, a new and more efficient boiler will pay for itself over time.
2. Fireplaces and Chimneys – Do you have a fireplace in your home? If you do, you could be losing a large amount of heat.
Unless fireplace plugs are installed, or fireplace caps are outfitted to the top of the chimney, heat will escape to the outside in a big way. This will cause your heating bills to go up as your heating system tries to make up for all the lost heat exiting the house through the fireplace or chimney.
Also, you’ll want to have your chimney inspected. Soot and ash can build up and contaminate the air of your home, posing a health risk to you and your family.
3. Dampers – Dampers are mechanisms that control air flow through a home heating duct system.
Greater airflow from the heating source will increase the temperature throughout the home, while less airflow will lower the temperature. Home heating specialists can either repair or install dampers to give you more control over the heating in your home.
Also, if your home already has dampers installed, home heating specialists at Cochran Oil will be able to ensure it is working properly, from the joints that hold it together, to the motor for your home heating system.
4. Thermostats – Sometimes thermostats outlive their usefulness. They will either need to be repaired or replaced.
Over time, thermostats can start delivering incorrect information to your heating system. For instance, if the home is colder than usual, it might be because the thermostat is not sending the correct signal to the heating system.
Thermostats are mechanical and electronic instruments, which means training is required to service them. It is strongly advised that you only let a trained home heating professional work on your thermostats to keep them in top operating order.
5. Filters – Filters in ductwork and throughout home heating systems keep the air you breathe safe and clean.
Particulates and pollutants travel throughout the house and, through a properly installed filter, will always be cleaned as it passes through.
Conversely, an improperly installed heating system filter will potentially bleed heat through the sides. Or, if it is too dirty, will release pollutants and particulates into the air.
A filter that is too clogged with particulates and pollutants will not ventilate heat properly, which will result in a colder home for you and your family.
Most often, a home heating professional will suggest replacing filters, and having them properly installed by a trained technician. This ensures your air is clean, there is proper airflow throughout the home, and that you are benefiting from all the heating fuel you’re paying for.
It’s clear that bringing a home heating professional into your home is the best way to ensure that your home stays warm this winter.
Extreme cold taxes heating systems greatly, and year-over-year, elements of your home heating system will need to be repaired or replaced.
Home heating specialists can offer many suggestions to a homeowner to help them lower their heating bills – suggesting rugs, covering up windows with plastic and curtains, and more.
But many of the most effective ways of heating your home require investments in your home heating infrastructure. Your boiler, thermostats, ductwork, and fireplaces all fit into this category.
If you’re worried about how you can keep your home warm this winter, Cochran Oil. With decades of experience in the field, our home heating specialists have seen everything. That means your comfort, your family, and your home are in good hands. | <urn:uuid:4039abaa-4ed6-4e93-b2de-85b631f2ec01> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.cochranoil.com/how-to-keep-your-house-warm-this-winter/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.943563 | 1,536 | 1.546875 | 2 |
“Once the heroin and crack addiction turned me into a homeless prostitute, I pretty much gave up on life. Laying there in a bed just staring into this mirror, I would sometimes see the beautiful little girl I used to be looking back at me”
Added by “Lisa S” in her tale.
Once you try to be like drug addict you have no way to dodge or escape. These expressions were recall by a lady Lisa clearing up her dilemma happened by drugs.
Addiction is sickness that effects on your brain performance and conduct. Drug craving is not only restricted to psychosomatic or corporeal tribulations. In every part of the world, drug addiction is found. Most eminent doctors of the world have expressed their opinion about its awful and dire effects. At the present moment drugs have been the fashion mark. Drugs undoubtedly invigorate one’s nervous system after physical and mental exhaustion and overtiredness. Certainly drug abuse is a grave public health catastrophe. Every year intake of drug brings about millions of health injuries all around the world.
Veracity of drug fascination and craze:
Drugs never bring in an unpleasant vibe or sensation. At first, when you switch into this awful addiction you get in high spirits. You have such jovial sensation that you bump into the addiction without resisting yourself up. No matter on what a great extent it harms your physical condition and health. This is what addiction called to be, “A silent killer” later on drugs have a hold all over your soul. You start being ill mentally, physically, monetarily, and others. You get into a timely diminishing addiction and you are powerless to cope up with it. Addiction is when you cannot resist by hand. Not when it plunks your health in jeopardy. Not when it plunks your life and your loved ones in crisis. It pleads to get and bring drugs into play every minute of time, even if you feel like to quit.
“I have absolutely no pleasure in the stimulants in which I sometimes so madly indulge. It has not been in the pursuit of pleasure that I have periled life and reputation and reason it has been the desperate attempt to escape from torturing memories, from a sense of insupportable loneliness and a dread of some strange impending doom”
Edgar Allan Poe
This is how your brain holds to such a peculiar state that you are coerced to take them on a regular basis. A human nature always espouse on to such habits that comprise remorseful outcomes.
Drug abuse and infirmity:
A frequent type-cast of living-rough people are widely addicted to drugs and alcohol. Drug abuse is not just regarding street or lane drugs. Above and beyond weed, marijuana, cocaine, heroin, are the most commonly dealing drugs today.
- The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration 2003 calculated approximately 26% of abused drug population. Somehow today a large number of drug abused community has been raised up profoundly.
- Around one million people are homeless today and 50% of them are chronically involved into drug abuse and alcohol both. Around 70% are just involved into drug addiction.
- An inspecting survey carried out by United States of America asked 25 countries to share the top listed reasons of homelessness. 68% of them reported that drug abuse were the foremost reason amongst single adults.
Drug addiction is just like an octopus. Drugs grab a soul and start destroying all the facets of substance abusers life. Abused drugs may include the following:
- Anabolic steroids
- Club drugs
- Sedatives, tranquilizers, stimulants and Prescription drugs.
Every drug gives a high splash of pleasurable sensation. Meth also endow with a good feeling at first. But after some pleasing moments, it gives numbness and nervousness that make the addicted person more touchy and over-sensitive. Drug users sometimes have angry, anxious, tensed, and fearful feel after using this drug. The person using this drug suffers from bundle of medical issues and diseases. It includes:
- Over thinking and sentimental dilemma
- Stern itchiness and skin complaint
- Meth users can have broken teeth and parched mouth
Anabolic steroids can be recognized as male sex hormones. They are synthetic. Generally doctors and physician prescribe anabolic steroids to solve hormonal problems in men. Anabolic steroids can be used to treat delayed puberty and muscle loss from some malady or illness. The most callous act is when body builders use them to get bigger muscles. Some people use them to enhance their muscle mass and to perk up their athletic performance. Using these steroids in this way is neither officially permitted nor healthy. Abuse of anabolic steroid has been associated with many health complications. This includes:
- Liver diseases including cancer or tumor
- Shrinking of testicles in men
- Breast growth in women
- Voice deepening and growth of facial hair in women
- Heart problems including heart attack
- Kidney damage
- Aggressive behavior
Above mentioned side effects are clear to elucidate that anabolic steroids are not fair to intake them.
Club drugs are usually identified as psychoactive drugs. These drugs act on Central Nervous System CNS. Changing of moods, emotions, feelings relate with these drugs. It usually gives you a sensation that you act out of ordinary. Abusing these drugs can cause serious issues and sometimes loss of life. They are more unsafe to use with alcohol. These drugs mostly used by young generation and adults in different bars, clubs, dance parties etc. They include:
- Ecstasy XTC, Adam, Molly, Hug Beans, Love Drug
- GHB, Liquid Ecstasy, Soap
- Jet, Vitamin K, Special K
- Glass, Crystal, Meth, Ice, Chalk, Speed, Crank
- Acid, Blotter, Dot
Club Drugs are brought into play as “Date Rape” too. Subsequent drug is operated to manipulate someone. It makes a person unable to say “NO” and to fight back against sexual assault.
It is a white powdered drug which can be snorted up the nose or mixed up with water and injected to the body. Cocaine is the most dangerous drug and when mixed up with other drugs or alcohol it becomes perilous. Cocaine speed up your whole body you may feel angry, energetic, happy, excited, nervous and sometimes you may be out of control.
Side effects of cocaine include:
- HIV Aids
- Once you become addicted to cocaine. And you absconded, still you will have cravings years later.
It is a brown powder made up of Morphine from an Asian poppy plant. This drug can be smoked or snorted up or injected with a needle. Heroin quickly effects on brain. The abuser may have tolerance issue, abuser need the same effect time to time by abusing heroin.
Side effects include:
- Heart issues and infections
- Death from overdose
- HIV Aids and hepatitis
Inhalants are the house holding products which are used as a drug. They include glues, hair sprays, lighter fluid, paints etc. Parent should be aware that their kids might have been addicted to these inhalants by snorting them up. Side effects include:
- Serious harm to brain, heart, kidneys and liver
- Disordering of the heart rhythms and lower oxygen levels.
A green/brown power made up of marijuana plant rolled up in a cigarette or smoked up. The abuser may have memory, learning, coughing, breathing issues, and behavioral problems.
Consequences and dilemma of addiction:
- Brain problems (effecting your judgmental, decision, memory and ability powers)
- AIDS, diabetes, liver diseases, pneumonia, sexually transmitted diseases, and other serious conditions.
- Mental illness, paranoia and hallucinations.
- Anxiety, depression, muscle weakness, nightmares.
- Body aches, sweating, nausea, vomiting
When an adolescent sees his or her friend abusing a drug and getting pleasure from it he start desiring for it. Parent should be meticulous and cautious in case to secure their close ones. Youngsters keep often their drug issue in veil from parents. Drug abuse is indisputably perilous to health. Once you get addicted treatment could be worst and complicate. The merely way to save an addicted life is to confiscate the cravings.
Keep your beloved ones far away from drugs and addiction. Drugs are fatal that leads to serious problems. Help abusers from the silent poison as for the sake of humanity. Love them, before it`s too late.
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Tell us how we can improve this post? | <urn:uuid:eb8dd74a-cffd-42f4-8284-086b55719eff> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.fajarmag.com/drug-addiction-an-enjoyable-poison-beget-homelessness/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.941934 | 1,876 | 1.695313 | 2 |
The Politics of Space and Belonging in the Kashmir Borderland
Antía Mato (Leibniz-Zentrum Moderner Orient)
In this talk Antía Mato will discuss the implications of examining the Kashmir dispute from a borderland perspective. She will focus on how conflict is manifested in territory, and more specifically, on the political space that the Line of Control (LoC, the provisional border dividing these territories) has created on both sides through a series of legal and material interventions. Ongoing transformations in this borderland attempt to bring these territories under the state purview and challenge the view that ‘nothing has substantially changed’ in the dispute. An understanding of the political space in these border areas helps us to contextualise recent developments such as the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill of 2019 (passed by Indian Parliament on 5 August), but also allow us to situate the Kashmir conflict within broader theoretical discussions on borders and territory. The study of this borderland intends to expose the discrepancies between hegemonic representations of the Kashmir dispute —as an interstate conflict, a separatist conflict, and as a world hotspot—, and how this dispute is actually experienced ‘from below’, that is, by those affected. This exercise allows for a more critical reading of the international reality and for recognising opportunities for thinking of more inclusive political spaces.
Antía Mato Bouzas is a researcher at Leibniz-Zentrum Moderner Orient, Berlin. Her research focus is on the politics of the South Asian region, with an interest on borders and citizenship. She currently works on a project funded by the DFG (German Research Foundation) on migration from north-eastern Pakistan to the Gulf. | <urn:uuid:db3f759b-3a3a-468d-8ca4-5bbfffede524> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.ibei.org/en/the-politics-of-space-and-belonging-in-the-kashmir-borderland_159841 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.917131 | 355 | 1.523438 | 2 |
Instruction in basic techniques of gallery management, exhibition planning, design installation of exhibitions, lighting and corresponding aesthetic concerns. Students will participate fully in the running of the Hodson Gallery: planning the gallery season, selecting exhibitors, writing contracts and news releases, correspondence and marketing, hanging and lighting exhibitions and hosting the receptions and lectures.
- To understand the basic techniques and philosophies of exhibition design.
- To develop a basic understanding of aesthetic and technical considerations in the mounting and display of collections.
- To develop an understanding of management issues involved in the successful operation of a gallery.
- To introduce the student to a range of private and public collections.
- To teach the student how to identify the thrust of a collection, its strong points and the intent of the collector.
- To introduce basic methods used in documentation and cataloging of collections.
- To develop writing and computer skills required for the public relations needs of a gallery.
- To enhance visualization and three dimensional thinking skills and creative problem solving.
- Attendance at weekly one-hour class, and at the hanging, taking down and reception for all exhibitions.
- Verbal class participation.
- Participation in all aspects of gallery management.
- Evaluation of writing of news releases and other documents necessary to gallery management.
- Compilation of an activity and resource notebook.
Private and public museums and galleries
Victoroff. Visual Artist's Business and Legal Guide
Klein, Larry. Exhibits: Planning and Design. Madison Square Press, New York 1986
Witteborg, Lothar. A Practical Guide for Temporary Exhibitions. Smithsonian Institution, 1981
Karp and Lavine. Exhibiting Cultures Smithsonian Institution, 1991.
Neal, Arminta. Exhibits for the Small Museum, American Association for State and Local History, 1976
Letter Grade Designation
A Mastery of course objectives, exceptional knowledge and understanding of subject matter and demonstrated excellence in the application of theory and technique on assigned projects and outstanding craftsmanship.
B Mastery of course objectives, above average knowledge and understanding of subject matter and above average craftsmanship.
C Mastery of course objectives, acceptable knowledge and understanding of subject matter, application of theory and technique on assigned projects and acceptable craftsmanship. | <urn:uuid:657c4bc5-dc82-47f5-b0fd-7d79e9b9e08e> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.hood.edu/academics/departments/department-art-archaeology/art-galleries/learning-opportunities | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.870632 | 487 | 2.78125 | 3 |
As a writer, my emotional state seems to vacillate between two settings. Setting 1 is being supremely confident in my own abilities: I know what I'm doing, I'm doing it well, and woooh boy am I ever good at writing things! Setting 2 is being absolutely sure that I'm a talentless hack who shouldn't ever be allowed to string a single sentence… Continue reading What I have in common with Hemingway, Flaubert & Dorothy Parker
From the wonderful site brainpickings. It's great advice not only for writers, but for life in general.
"There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed." "Never think that war, no matter how necessary, nor how justified, is not a crime." "When writing a novel a writer should create living people; people not characters. A character is a caricature." "There is no friend as loyal… Continue reading Ernest Hemingway, quotes, and an excess of words | <urn:uuid:0397470b-1936-471a-9a8e-f9b29f1cb02f> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://mariahaskins.com/tag/ernest-hemingway/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.963918 | 205 | 1.570313 | 2 |
Yesterday afternoon, a team from the Nature Watchers Corps in association with the Maritime Police, seized the proceeds of illegal fishing activity, carried out in the Garajau Partial Nature Reserve.
After identification, the fish were taken to the Regional Directorate of Fisheries, where it was confirmed that the catch was ‘consumption fit’ and subsequently handed to Funchal officials.
The Garajau Partial Nature Reserve is located east of Funchal. It comprises of an area of approximately six miles and runs from Ponta do Lazareto, to the west, and Ponta da Oliveira, to the east. Among other prohibitions, the reserve strictly forbids any fishing, including commercial or sports activities; spearfishing, the use of nets and motorised vessels.
All those involved will face legal action. | <urn:uuid:b1bfb3ea-2655-489e-a6ee-4f532c2281d2> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://madeira-weekly.com/2020/04/02/illegal-fishing-uncovered/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.95622 | 165 | 1.539063 | 2 |
In our technology-driven, workaday world, connecting with nature has never before been more essential. A Wilder Life, a beautiful oversized lifestyle book by the team behind the popular Wilder Quarterly, gives readers indispensable ideas for interacting with the great outdoors. Learn to plant a night-blooming garden, navigate by reading the stars, build an outdoor shelter, make dry shampoo, identify insects, cultivate butterflies in a backyard, or tint your clothes with natural dyes. Like a modern-day Whole Earth Catalog, A Wilder Life gives us DIY projects and old-world skills that are being reclaimed by a new generation. Divided into sections pertaining to each season and covering self-reliance, growing and gardening, cooking, health and beauty, and wilderness, and with photos and illustrations evocative of the great outdoors, A Wilder Life shows that getting in touch with nature is possible no matter who you are and—more important—where you are.
About the Author
Celestine Maddy is the founder and publisher of Wilder Quarterly. She was named one of Fast Company’s Most Creative People in Business for 2012 and is also a Cannes Lion winner. Before founding Wilder Quarterly, Maddy was the director of emerging media at the global agency StrawberryFrog. She lives in San Francisco, where she is currently VP of marketing at Reddit.
“The new book that’s becoming our natural beauty obsession. . . . It’s a comprehensive, coffee table–worthy, DIY project–packed manual for enjoying all four seasons through interaction with nature—including recipes (foraged elderflower champagne! Pumpkin butter!), gardening and home tips. . . . It’s also a particularly good resource for natural-beauty buffs.” —Vogue.com
“Wander through the pages of A Wilder Life in awe and appreciation. . . . [The book] urges readers to garden with a purpose—to stew, brew, can and pot. . . . . Nature isn’t just a screen saver. It’s a soul saver.” —The New York Times Book Review
“Will smarten up any side table.” —Domino
“A beautiful, informative, thoughtful compilation of facts, recipes, DIY instructions, and more—a book designed to put you a little more in touch with nature and a lot more in touch with yourself.” —Organic Lifestyle Magazine | <urn:uuid:9c5e8678-e9e9-415e-a938-c4e6a21312f8> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.shopbishopandwilde.com/book/9781579655938 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.921537 | 511 | 1.601563 | 2 |
On Tuesday, March 16, eight women were shot and killed by Robert Aaron Long. The majority of these women were Asian Americans or of Korean ethnicity. This was a horrible example of what Asian Americans have been struggling with for a long time and it has only gotten worse in the last year.
After the outbreak of COVID-19, those with a racial prejudice thought it would be fun to refer to it as the “China Virus.”
This led to an increase in acts of hate crimes towards Asian Americans, including speech, physical violence that led to severe injuries and murder. This “joke” has turned into something that is actively putting lives at risk.
While COVID-19 may have originated in Wuhan, China, this does not make it Chinese virus. There is still uncertainty about exactly where the virus originated. COVID-19 is a global pandemic and not a single person or group is at fault for it.
Not only does this perpetuate racial stereotypes, it has made way for increased amounts of microaggressions that lead to extreme attacks as seen in the mass shooting. Asian lives matter and it is a shame that a majority of society kept silent while these racist narratives were being shared.
This brings up another example of racism in the United States and the justice system. Long’s crimes were brushed off as an “oopsie daisy” and “he was just having a bad day.”
It came out later that Long had a sex addiction and immediatly there was a presumption that everything he did was for a reason and it would have been swept under the rug if not for the media.
White men are repeatedly let off the hook for crimes against minority groups. Derek Chauvin and Kyle Rittenhouse are further examples of this point. Though both of them committed murders, they were able to post bail and were defended in a trial.
White men are statistically the most violent group in the united states. They are often cut the most slack when it comes to charges for violent crimes.
65% of terrorist attacks in the U.S. were commited by a white offender, yet nobody screams terrorist when a white man goes shopping in a store.
While violent crimes are often prosecuted, the cases seem to skew when the victim is from a minority group. Causing any harm, physical or otherwise, to a group of individuals for a virus that has yet to have a proven cause is an ignorant and dangerous thing to do. Nobody should fear for their safety in America because of the color of their skin. | <urn:uuid:ca891627-b2fc-4f6b-a6c3-c2844e07b52b> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://usueasterneagle.com/2021/04/14/stop-asian-hate-and-hold-white-offenders-accountable/?pk_campaign=feed&pk_kwd=from-ceu-editor-to-deseret-news-editor-todd-curtis-given-spjs-lifetime-achievement-award | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.984634 | 527 | 2.0625 | 2 |
Congratulations to Tom Elgar who did brilliantly to win Corpus Christi College Oxford’s ‘Schools Science Prize’ with his Chemistry essay about Quantum Mechanics.
Despite the challenge of his AS exams, Tom was still able to devote a week to preparing and writing the essay. Tom said, “Dr Smith made me aware of the essay. It was an area I had already done some reading for and found it quite interesting so I decided I would attempt the essay.
I did not expect a great deal to come of it. I applied mainly because I knew it would be a good experience. To end up as joint winner was extremely pleasing and the cash prize [of £250] was a very nice surprise!”
Tom is hoping to study Natural Sciences at Cambridge. This would allow him to pursue his joint interests in Physics and Chemistry whereas at Oxford, students have to choose one of Physics, Chemistry or Biology. Tom admits, “Winning an essay competition from an Oxford college has thrown a spanner in the works! It is a great position to be in so I really cannot complain.” | <urn:uuid:f2ffa5bd-6ef2-4ba0-802b-7c2d2c8efb75> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.rgsw.org.uk/worcester/rgs-news/corpus-christi-chemistry-coup/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.989107 | 228 | 1.8125 | 2 |
WASHINGTON, D.C. – It’s a spelling bee generating a lot of buzz in the world of spellers.
“It’s a family effort, both of us are working on it,” said Shobha Dasari. “Our parents have been helping out as well.”
Spelling bees have been a part of siblings Shobha and Shourav Dasari’s lives since elementary school. Both competed at the Scripps National Spelling Bee in years past.
“The fact that that was cancelled was really disappointing, not just to spellers, but also people like us, who are really involved with the bee,” said Shobha, who is now in college.
They run an online spelling website and app called “SpellPundit.” When the National Bee was canceled, they decided to try and fill the void.
“We saw an opportunity to host an online bee, not to replace the National Spelling Bee, but kind of serve as an alternative for those students who wouldn’t be able to participate in it this year,” Shobha said.
It is all taking place in view of judges and proctors online: from the written tests to the spelling of words out loud.
“We’ll be able to watch them and make sure that they’re not referencing any external materials or anything like that,” Shobha said.
More than 300 students signed up – a number that will eventually be narrowed down to four groups of four spellers.
“If you’re one of the four spellers in each of those groups, then you go onto the finals and then in the finals, you spell down until there is one winner,” Shourav said.
There are sponsors and cash prizes involved, including $2,500 for the final winner. The event has been a lot of work for the brother and sister, but they said it’s something they wanted to do.
“The one thing I always say is that the spelling bee community kind of raised us, in a way, and this is our way of giving back to that,” Shobha said.
The winner of the SpellPundit Online Spelling Bee will be crowned on Thursday evening. | <urn:uuid:8c881c4f-f5dc-4fd8-bf89-f2cb1d5c525e> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.wtvr.com/news/national/online-spelling-bee-fills-void-left-by-canceled-scripps-national-spelling-bee | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.971908 | 487 | 1.6875 | 2 |
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common arthropathy and is a leading cause of pain and disability in the Western world. As an example, symptomatic knee OA occurs in 15% of adults >55 years old, with a radiographic incidence of >80% in those over 75 years old.
It is a condition characterised by the progressive loss of articular cartilage and remodelling of the underlying bone. In this article, we shall look at the pathophysiology, clinical features and management of osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis is traditionally thought of as a ‘wear and tear’ disease which occurs as we age. However, recent research suggests otherwise.
The pathogenesis of OA involves a degradation of cartilage and remodelling of bone due to an active response of chondrocytes in the articular cartilage and the inflammatory cells in the surrounding tissues.
The release of enzymes from these cells break down collagen and proteoglycans, destroying the articular cartilage. The exposure of the underlying subchondral bone results in sclerosis, followed by reactive remodelling changes that lead to the formation of osteophytes and subchondral bone cysts. The joint space is progressively lost over time.
Osteoarthritis has a multifactorial aetiology and can be primary (with no obvious cause) or secondary (due to trauma, infiltrative disease or connective tissue diseases).
Risk factors for primary OA include obesity, advancing age, female gender, and manual labour occupations.
The most common joints affected by osteoarthritis are the small joints of the hands and feet, the hip joint, and the knee joint.
Patients typically present with symptoms that are insidious, chronic, and gradually worsening. Clinical features include pain and stiffness in joints, worsened with activity* and relieved by rest. Pain tends to worsen throughout the day, whereas stiffness tends to improve. Prolonged OA results in deformity and a reduced range of movement.
On examination, inspect for deformity; there are some common characteristic findings depending on the joint affected, such as Bouchard nodes (swelling of PIPJs) or Heberden nodes (swelling of DIPJs) in the hands, and fixed flexion deformity or varus malalignment in the knees.
Feel for crepitus throughout the range of movement. Movement of the joint is generally reduced and painful.
*Joint stiffness and pain that improves with activity is characteristically seen in inflammatory arthropathies (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis).
The differential diagnoses for osteoarthritis will depend on which area of the body is affected. However, some universal conditions include inflammatory arthropathies (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis), crystal arthropathies (e.g. gout or CPPD), septic arthritis, fractures, bursitis, or malignancy (primary or metastatic).
Joint specific differential diagnoses for osteoarthritis:
Osteoarthritis is primarily a clinical diagnosis. Investigations can be used to exclude differential diagnosis; routine blood tests can be useful to exclude inflammatory or infective causes and radiographs are useful for confirming the diagnosis (Fig. 3) and excluding fractures.
The classical radiological features of osteoarthritis are:
- Loss of joint space
- Subchondral cysts
- Subchondral sclerosis
The management of osteoarthritis involves options ranging from conservative to medical to surgical.
Patients should be educated about their condition and its progression, including advise on joint protection and emphasising the importance of strengthening and exercise. Patients who are overweight should also be advised on weight loss.
Some non-pharmacological interventions that can be offered include local heat or ice packs, joint supports, and physiotherapy (most effective option for longer-term outcomes).
Simple analgesics and topical NSAIDs are the mainstay of most medical management for OA, alongside the conservative measures.
There is varying success with the use of intra-articular steroid injections*. These are commonly administered in the outpatient clinic in cases where the presence of pain remains despite oral analgesics.
*Steroid injections are typically mixed with local anaesthetic; whilst this improves the patients symptoms for a few hours, there is often a subsequent ‘steroid flare’, during which the patient’s symptoms worsen for a few days.
If conservative and medical interventions fail, then surgical intervention may be considered, especially if their joint symptoms have a substantial impact on their quality of life.
The mainstay of management is with arthroplasty, however other options include osteotomy and arthrodesis (joint fusion)
- Osteoarthritis is a condition characterised by the progressive loss of articular cartilage and remodelling of the underlying bone
- Risk factors include obesity, advancing age, female gender, and manual labour occupations
- Patients present with pain and stiffness in joints, worsened with activity and relieved by rest, with associated clinical signs depending on the joint involved
- It is a clinical diagnosis that can be managed conservatively initially, however may require surgical intervention if significant impact to quality of life remains | <urn:uuid:5bfba364-ff75-4447-aa10-f3d9647a0c76> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://teachmesurgery.com/orthopaedic/principles/osteoarthritis/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.917822 | 1,129 | 3.25 | 3 |
New Documentary into Gas Flaring
Apparently 150 billion cubic metres of gas are burnt off every year - enough gas to power the United States for three months. Even worse - the 390 million tonnes of carbon dioxide released while doing this is more than the reduction of CO2 emissions from many of the carbon offseting projects of the Koyoto protocol. Nigeria alone burns off enough gas to power half of Africa for a year. Writer, producer and director (and co-author of the first funding book), Caroline Hancock, has just completed a documentary on the subject and apparently almost got shot when shooting in Nigeria. While the screening on BBC World has passed it may well appear online at some point or be replayed on the channel - and either way sounds like a pretty important contribution to an ever more urgent problem.
The flaring and venting of Natural Gas is wasting valuable resources
and contributing to climate change. The World Bank’s Global Gas Flaring
Reduction partnership estimates that 150 billion cubic metres of gas
are burnt off or ‘flared’ every year – enough to supply the whole of
the United States for three months. Gas flaring and venting also puts
390 million tonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere every year –
more than the reduction of CO2 emissions from all the projects
currently registered under the Kyoto Protocol’s Clean Development
Mechanism. A new programme in TVE’s Earth Report series goes to Russia and Nigeria
to assess the scale of the problem and to examine possible solutions.
For decades national and private oil companies have been burning the gas associated with oil production. Natural gas is released when oil is produced but is less profitable, especially in countries that lack sufficient regulation, infrastructure and markets.
“Gas Flaring is a very serious problem today…it’s equivalent to 390 million tonnes of CO2 emissions.” says Rashad Kaldany, former head, Global Gas Flaring Reduction partnership,
Although gas flaring continues to be a challenging problem, particularly in developing countries, capturing gas is not a new idea. Canada introduced legislation in the 1930s and Norway in the 1960s, so that oil companies could capture and use the gas produced by oil extraction. As a result, both countries now lead the world in gas capture technologies.
“It’s a win-win for everybody, you have the potential to increase utilisation of a premium fuel…it has an opportunity to provide some poverty alleviation benefits and it reduces a greenhouse gas.” Arden Berg, Alberta Energy and Utilities Board
The world’s top gas flarers, Nigeria and Russia, together burn about 45 billion cubic metres of gas a year. Despite the fact that gas flaring has been regulated in Nigeria since 1984, the country currently flares off about 40 per cent of its associated gas - enough to power half of Africa for a year. Yet most Nigerians have no access to electricity.
Capturing the gas and transporting it to domestic and international markets is difficult and expensive. The aim of the GGFR partnership is to help Nigeria, and other flaring countries overcome these barriers to meet the commitment to end gas flaring.
Small-scale power generation in locations like Bonny Kingdom in the Niger Delta is diverting associated gas into power distribution, bringing near constant electricity to some areas at affordable prices. Natural gas is also being liquefied for export to the Atlantic basin.
Russia faces different challenges. Satellite images show that Siberia is home to the largest field of gas flares in the world. Oil operations are often sited in very remote and inhospitable regions where the capture and transport of gas is complex and expensive. But even here, there is a business opportunity. One company is converting gas to methanol in a small plant on site at an oil field. Methanol is much easier to transport and is sold to the petrochemicals industry. Russian gas and oil giant, Novatek, has just built a methanol plant in the North Western plains of Siberia.
* * *
Billion Dollar Bonfire was produced with the support of The World Bank’s Global Gas Flaring Reduction Partnership.
TVE and its Partners distribute Earth Report programmes for broadcast and educational and campaigning use in countries across Africa, Asia & the Pacific, and Latin America & the Caribbean – to schools, colleges, universities, NGOs, environmental agencies and other ‘multiplier’ organisations. | <urn:uuid:3a9dbe14-a313-48f0-aeb8-c0cf9be95309> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.netribution.co.uk/stories/environment/new-documentary-into-gas-flaring | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572089.53/warc/CC-MAIN-20220814234405-20220815024405-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.942013 | 911 | 3.0625 | 3 |
The Henry Ford Museum, in Dearborn MI, not only honors the history of automobile manufacturing, but tells the inventor’s legacy.
Posts by Jackie Finch:
Mustard Museum in Middleton Wisconsin. A man was determined to build it, and they did come. Find mustard from every U.S. state here.
Celebrity Millenium is a new ship and Jackie Sheckler Finch couldn’t wait to once again take a cruise this time to Alaska. Cruising during Covid.
The Holy Door of the Cathedral of Santiago is now open. And due to the pandemic, the Holy Door to remain open for two years instead of the traditional one.
Mackinac Island is a famous car-free paradise on Lake Michigan, the hotel was the setting for the movie Somewhere in Time, it remains a popular theme on the island to this day. | <urn:uuid:c693afbe-aec5-44d8-b38d-74275ce6b6a4> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.gonomad.com/author/jackiesfinch | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.927301 | 185 | 1.625 | 2 |
WASHINGTON — Dr. Anthony Fauci said Sunday that this weekend's emergency use authorization for the Johnson & Johnson coronavirus vaccine gives the country three "highly efficacious vaccines" that provide significant protection from Covid-19, and he urged Americans to take whichever one is available to them when they become eligible.
In an interview on NBC's "Meet the Press," Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said he would take any of the three approved vaccines — from Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech and Johnson & Johnson — because all provide strong protection from severe disease related to the coronavirus. Fauci was vaccinated late last year in an early push to inspire confidence in the vaccine rollout.
"All three of them are really quite good, and people should take the one that's most available to them," he said.
"If you go to a place and you have J&J and that's the one that's available now, I would take it. I personally would do the same thing. I think people need to get vaccinated as quickly and as expeditiously as possible," he said.
The Food and Drug Administration authorized use of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine on an emergency basis Saturday, a day after its advisory panel recommended it.
The new vaccine differs from the two other previously approved ones because it is a single shot and doesn't require a second dose weeks later. Documents released by the FDA found the shot to be 86 percent effective at preventing serious disease overall — 72 percent effective in the U.S. and 64 percent in South Africa, where a new strain of the virus has become prominent.
While the efficacy rates are lower than those of the Moderna and Pfizer shots, Fauci said on "Meet the Press" that Americans shouldn't try to compare their efficacy numbers side by side because each shot was examined in different trials in different circumstances. For example, public health officials have been more concerned in recent weeks about the rise in variants that could evade vaccines.
"It's not the weaker vaccine. They are all three really good vaccines," Fauci said.
There have been more than 28.6 million coronavirus infections in the U.S., and more than 514,000 deaths have been attributed to the virus, according to an NBC News analysis. The numbers of new daily cases have plummeted in recent weeks — the seven-day average is at around 70,000, the lowest since October. And the country's vaccination rate has been improving, too; more than 68 million doses have been administered, according to NBC News.
Even so, deaths are dropping more slowly than new cases. And Fauci warned government officials that the decline in cases shouldn't prompt a loosening of restrictions just yet because too much virus is still circulating in the country and he's concerned that backing off could lead to yet another spike.
"We've been in this situation before," he said. "When you start to see a decline in number of cases, if you prematurely lift the restrictions, we have a few examples of the rebound back. Our baseline of daily infections now, even though it's way down from where it was, 300,000-plus per day, is down to around 70,000. That baseline's too high.
"Let's keep our feet on the accelerator right now, because we are going in the right direction," he said. | <urn:uuid:9a4ed2a6-334d-4055-ac3f-6b2a3ee59cec> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/meet-the-press/fauci-urges-americans-take-vaccine-available-them-when-eligible-n1259090?cid=eml_nbn_20210228 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572089.53/warc/CC-MAIN-20220814234405-20220815024405-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.973995 | 702 | 1.867188 | 2 |
The Africa Enterprise Challenge Fund awards grants to private sector companies to support new and innovative business models in Africa.
The maximum amount the AECF can award to a single business idea is US$ 1.5m and the minimum is US$250,000, although this amount may vary depending on the competition. The average amount is expected to be around US$750,000.
- Fund innovative and commercially sustainable business ideas that have the potential to positively impact the incomes of rural households.
- Improve the way agribusiness and other market systems work, thereby facilitating market entry for rural poor households and businesses.
- Stimulate the development and use of affordable and accessible technologies for the benefit of the rural poor.
- Ensure AECF funds have a catalytic effect by leveraging private sector investment as a fundamental part of the strategy.
- Climate Change
- Private sector/business
Focus Countries: Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, Sudan, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe | <urn:uuid:78f81fb2-c40b-49c3-b0da-aeef815d92d6> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www2.fundsforngos.org/cat/africa-enterprise-challenge-fund-supporting-new-innovative-business-models-africa/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.896882 | 241 | 1.789063 | 2 |
Hey Atul,I appeared for GT test at Bangalore on 25th March. here are the details of the questions:
Questions related to family. Why is it trending towards nuclear families now a days. What are the advantages/disadvantages. What is my preference
A farm house or a house in country side that I would like to own or buy
I spoke about my ancestral house which i saw for the first time and now owned by someone else. I was asked questions related to that on how did I feel when I first saw it. Impact on old people when they are alone etc.
Write a letter to your friend to stay at your apartment when you are away on vacation for a month
Now a days Govt is spending a lot on wildlife project. Do you agree or disagree and provide your views on it
Thanks to your tips in all sections. I was able to do well in the test and got an overall band of 7.5
Did you recently take the IELTS test?
Help other students by sharing your IELTS questions and topics that you got in your test in the comments below or email us at [email protected] Make sure that when you share your questions, you mention the following:
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Good luck to everyone preparing for the IELTS test.
For unlimited feedback with detailed corrections for speaking and writing tasks, sign up for IELTS Twenty20 Online Course today!
Study 20 minutes a day for 20 days and Ace the IELTS exam.Tags: Recent IELTS questions Recent test questions | <urn:uuid:d24379e0-ad80-4d1f-9e5d-b9bdc8ad038a> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://ieltsonlinepractice.com/ielts-exam-bangalore-shashi-april-16-2017/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.952714 | 372 | 1.539063 | 2 |
For more than 50 years, Belmont Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center has been the sole option for skilled nursing care in Belmont and the life’s work of two generations of the Karger family, which opened the facility in 1967.
On Thursday, the family-owned nursing home near the open fields and woodlands of the Beaver Brook Reservation emerged as another symbol of misery in the COVID-19 pandemic, after the facility announced the virus had killed 30 patients, accounting for all but one death in Belmont apparently connected to the illness.
The development came as the state announced 2,263 new infections and 137 new deaths attributed to the coronavirus. The virus has claimed the lives of 1,245 people in Massachusetts, 49 percent of whom lived in long-term care facilities.
During his daily briefing on Thursday, Governor Charlie Baker urged residents to cooperate with a growing team of “contact tracers” mapping the spread of COVID-19. The project, launched with Boston-based nonprofit Partners in Health, has hired 176 people, and many more will be coming online in the coming weeks. The program, Baker said, will help officials craft strategies to stem the spread of the virus.
They are interviewing patients about whom they had had close contact with. “We urge residents to take this call and provide the relevant information” if reached by the contact tracers, Baker said. He called the initiative “key to helping the state build a strategy for how we can get back to something like a new normal.”
Baker also provided an update Thursday on the state’s supply of personal protective equipment and hospital bed capacity. He said the state has distributed more than 3.8 million pieces of gear, including masks, gloves, and gowns, to hospitals, nursing homes, community health centers, and public safety personnel.
In the state’s hospitals, Baker said, roughly half of the 17,800 beds are in use, with temporary hospitals in Boston and Worcester, as well as temporary facilities opening soon in Bourne, Lowell, and Dartmouth, available to address any potential overflow as coronavirus cases surge.
“We do want to be able to rely on those beds if we need them,” Baker said.
In Belmont, the death toll at Belmont Manor is among the highest publicly disclosed in the state among elder-care facilities.
“It’s horrible," said Town Administrator Patrice Garvin. "There are just no words to describe it.”
The state-run Soldiers’ Home in Holyoke had seen 52 deaths as of Thursday, including 44 linked to COVID-19. With a total of 222 positive cases, 81 staffers and 141 residents, the outbreak there is outpacing the toll at a nursing home in Kirkland, Wash., which marked the onset of the US crisis and has been linked to 37 deaths.
There are 232 long-term care facilities in Massachusetts that have reported at least one case of COVID-19, the state said, and so far 4,798 residents and workers have been infected. State officials said this week that about half of the people who have died of the virus in Massachusetts lived in long-term-care facilities.
“One thing we know about nursing homes is that it can spread very quickly,” state Secretary of Health and Human Services Marylou Sudders said at a State House news conference.
The state had assigned a rapid-response clinical team to work with Belmont Manor, she said.
“Every member of the Belmont Manor team is heartbroken by the losses of beloved members of our community. From the beginning of this pandemic, we have taken every possible step to address this fast-moving situation," said a statement from administrator Stewart Karger, who began working at the facility under his father in 1979.
The death of a patient on April 1 was the first linked to COVID-19 at Belmont Manor. On Saturday, the town said 13 patients there had died from the virus.
Then in a letter to families dated Wednesday, Belmont Manor announced that a total of 30 patients had died, including four who had been hospitalized.
“Every death represents an enormous amount of loss to the families of these individuals,” Karger wrote. “And because many of these residents have been with us for a longer period of time, this feeling of loss is something that we at Belmont Manor share.”
The letter said 116 residents have tested positive with two test results outstanding. Among employees, 59 have tested positive out of 94 who have been tested. The company said it employs around 190 people.
Belmont Manor Nursing Home Inc. has a five-star rating from Medicare, which bases its ratings on health inspections, staffing, and quality measures. Belmont Manor’s rating is “much above average,” according to Medicare. The facility has 135 certified beds.
Cynthia Lee Segal, 72, died at Belmont Manor on April 9 after becoming infected, her sister said.
Linda Fritz said Segal developed a fever in late March and later tested positive for COVID-19.
A nurse facilitated two FaceTime calls for the sisters before Segal died, Fritz said.
“They were very kind, and I think they are stunned by this happening, too,” said Fritz, who lives in Newton.
Still, Fritz said, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention made it too difficult to get testing in nursing homes, and plans by the state and Belmont Manor to address the outbreak have proven inadequate.
“I would like to think that Belmont Manor and the large number of deaths resulting at the nursing home should give nursing homes, the state, and maybe the country many lessons learned for the next wave of the pandemic,” she said.
Garvin said town officials began communicating with Belmont Manor about COVID-19 on March 5 and delivered 900 masks to the facility. On Thursday, she said the town planned to deliver 150 gowns to the nursing home.
The state said it has been in touch with the facility by phone for two weeks and planned to help the facility with staffing.
The National Guard has performed 43 tests onsite, and another 190 self-test kits have been delivered to Belmont Manor, the state said.
Sudders on Thursday said Massachusetts is one of two states offering mobile testing to nursing homes, rest homes, assisted-living facilities, and other state-run care centers.
As of Thursday, the state had administered 5,883 tests at 279 elder-care facilities and 10,995 self-test kits had been sent to 103 facilities, Sudders said. The National Guard also planned to visit 11 sites Thursday and administer about 1,300 tests, she said.
Matt Stout, Martin Finucane, Travis Andersen, Jaclyn Reiss, and Hanna Krueger of the Globe staff contributed. | <urn:uuid:2d0d9adc-16e8-4ad6-94bd-6fff3092337a> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.bostonglobe.com/2020/04/16/nation/27-residents-belmont-manor-nursing-home-have-now-died-covid-19-owner-says-up-13-reported-deaths/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.97391 | 1,449 | 1.523438 | 2 |
HKSAR CE Carrie Lam said in order to resume some quarantine-free travel to the mainland, Hong Kong must ensure that its anti-COVID-19 practices are more in line with mainland practices.
At the moment, the Hong Kong SAR government’s overarching strategy in reopening the borders is to “work very hard to resume some mainland travel, especially for business people,” said CE Carrie Lam.
These Comments were made by the CE in a media session prior to the October 26th Executive Board meeting, responding to concerns that cross-border restrictions are making many foreign business leaders, including those in the financial sector, suspicious that Hong Kong’s status as an international financial center is not at risk.
She said this was a “very difficult topic,” she said, the government was caught in a dilemma such as: “In order to resume some quarantine-free trips to the mainland, we need to make sure our anti-COVID-19 Practices more in line with mainland practices. “This, she said, will give mainland authorities confidence to allow Hong Kong people to enter the mainland without being subject to the 14-day plus 7-day quarantine.
Therefore, the focus for Hong Kong is on controlling the import of possible cases. “If Hong Kong were to relax border controls for people arriving from overseas or do what other countries have done – so-called living with the COVID-19 virus – the chances of resuming travel to the mainland will be reduced,” CE Lam clarified.
This must be seen against the background that Hong Kong’s main advantage is that it is the gateway to mainland China.
“If Hong Kong-based companies cannot make their way to the mainland, I believe that it will greatly reduce Hong Kong’s attractiveness as an international business center and an international financial center.”
She gave an insight into the current border strategy: “At the moment, the strategy of the Hong Kong SAR government is to try very hard to resume some mainland trips, especially for business people.”
If the global situation stabilizes in the future, i.e. if confirmed cases in the countries where people want to come to Hong Kong begin to decline, she adds that they come from the list of countries in Group A (those of the 21 day quarantine) and instead in Group B (that’s a 14-day quarantine after full vaccination) or, better yet, they could come down to Group C (with only seven days of quarantine).
“But the current situation is that we have not yet reached this stage, be it locally, on the mainland or globally,” concluded CE.
Border updates from across the region:
– Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Island to welcome vaccinated tourists from November 20, 2021
– Langkawi controls international tourism bubble from November 15, 2021: SOPs to be observed
– Visitors from 46 countries / areas can fly quarantine-free to Thailand from November 1, 2021 | <urn:uuid:b62c718a-766e-44f3-91b5-1dfb3aac331c> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://tuckertourismnews.com/resuming-journey-with-the-mainland-is-prime-precedence-for-hong-kong-border-reopening/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.954972 | 622 | 1.554688 | 2 |
Virginia Commonwealth University
|Virginia Commonwealth University|
|Sports:||baseball, basketball, cross country, field hockey, golf, soccer, tennis, track and field, volleyball|
|Mascot:||Rodney the Ram (Rams)|
Medical College of Virginia was founded in 1838. Separately, the Richmond School of Social Work and Public Health started in 1917 on what today is VCU's Monroe Park Campus. In 1925, the Richmond School became the Richmond division of the College of William and Mary, and in 1939, the name changed to Richmond Professional Institute. It separated from William and Mary in 1962. In 1968, it merged with the Medical College of Virginia to become Virginia Commonwealth University. | <urn:uuid:d8afe0f1-9538-4e5c-bf61-6723c498c760> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.conservapedia.com/Virginia_Commonwealth_University | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.872044 | 198 | 1.820313 | 2 |
You and me both
The Coronavirus crisis has had drastic consequences for employees of the University of Groningen (RUG) Fourty percent of employees (including student assistants and PhD students) are mentally suffering.
Reasons given include an increased workload, the lack of colleagues and uncertainty about the future, reports OOGTV.
Employees also say that they suffer from a lack of motivation, listlessness, depression and sleeping problems. In addition, employees are concerned about their own health or the health of their loved ones because of the Coronavirus.
Working from home is disappointing for many employees. 40 percent do not have a good workplace at home, such as a good chair or computer, and many complain that it is also not quiet enough at home. At the same time, there is the pressure from colleagues or supervisors to continue to work in their spare time.
Some of the respondents think it is better this way. For example, they can now organise their days better, have to travel less and have more time, partly due to online meetings. The information has come from a survey, and based on the preliminary results, people will be able to borrow office furniture for use at home. | <urn:uuid:8efe14e9-ba61-43c5-886e-3daf4c4e0d1a> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://northerntimes.nl/40-percent-of-rug-employees-suffer-from-coronavirus-dip/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.976937 | 245 | 1.703125 | 2 |
Tennesseans need care – expanding Medicaid would do just that | Opinion
Tennessee has the second highest rate of hospital closures in the nation, and women and people of color lack access to quality health care.
- Cherisse Scott is CEO and founder of SisterReach.
Tennessee, we’re No. 2. I know that no one likes to hear that. Everyone wants to be No. 1. But let me assure you that in this case, you don’t want to be No. 1 because Tennessee is No. 2 in the nation when it comes to closing hospitals.
This is creating vast health access deserts across the state leaving us without adequate care options, and for Tennesseans with chronic multi-layered health issues, it's killing us.
There is one simple action Governor Bill Lee could take that not only would stem the tide of hospital collapse, but also get insurance to underserved Tennesseans – that is expanding Medicaid now.
Expanding Medicaid isn’t just a health care issue, it's an ethical, economic, and racial justice issue.
States that expanded Medicaid have seen benefits for residents
When hospitals close or access to affordable care is denied, the impact doesn’t fall equally on all of us.
Over the last year, we have seen COVID-19 disproportionately claim Black lives and one reason for this is lack of insurance coverage.
Having insurance is a key factor in ensuring that someone is able to remain healthy. BIPOC Tennesseans are vastly underinsured, which denies them resources to make the best choices for their health, their families, and the ability to live with dignity.
Expanding Medicaid works, and we have proof that it does. Studies have shown the impact Medicaid expansion has had on the health and well-being of residents in states who have adopted it.
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Beyond insurance, Medicaid expansion is a key element to keeping hospitals in our communities where people need them.
Hospital closures disproportionately affect rural areas but in states that expanded Medicaid, hospitals are six times less likely to close.
Increased Medicaid expansion means boosted access to care, improved long-term health for patients, and could help improve Tennessee’s poor health rankings by providing more access to coverage. While we are number two in closures, we also rank 40th when it comes to the best states for health care. We must do better.
We must improve women's health access and outcomes
And for Gov. Bill Lee, who has spent the last year wasting tax-payer dollars passing anti-abortion legislation, he must take some of the responsibility of why women and individuals are terminating their pregnancies – many cannot afford to live, let alone expand their families.
Investing in Medicaid means an investment in preventive care like comprehensive birth control access, better access to prenatal care to reduce maternal morbidity, and more affordable wellness exams.
I am a firm believer that more women would feel confident to bring their pregnancies to term if they knew they had proper access to Medicaid before, during, and after their pregnancies.
That also includes better wages to sustain their families once a new baby arrives.
Expanding Medicaid won’t solve all our problems. It won’t end racism in our health care system or banish white supremacy. But it will allow every Tennessean a fighting chance at quality of life and sustainability.
We ought to be able to trust that our governor is non-biased and compassionate no matter our party affiliation, race, or economic standing.
Every Tennessean deserves the right to live healthy lives, raise healthy families, and live in abundant and sustainable communities. Over 300,000 people in our state are uninsured with no access to healthcare.
It’s time for Governor Lee to do the right thing, finally.
Cherisse Scott is CEO and founder of SisterReach. | <urn:uuid:478722a2-801b-41e3-b2be-28d8fa4df061> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.tennessean.com/story/opinion/2021/06/12/tennesseans-need-care-expanding-medicaid-would-do-that-sister-reach/7667792002/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.951702 | 808 | 1.59375 | 2 |
Omnistone’s are one of the many different crafting materials in Dauntless. This guide will tell you Where To Find Omnistone In Dauntless as you’ll need them to craft grenades and some other items during the quests at the earlier stages of the game.
When you hunt down a Behemoth in Dauntless, the environments are randomized to a certain extent. This means it’s not a simple matter of telling you exactly where to go, but it’s more about the visuals of what you’re looking for.
Where To Find Omnistone In DauntlessOmnistone is an ore, you can find it within small grey rocks, usually at the foot of cliffs. You can find them during the very early levels of the game and throughout much of the rest. If you pursue any of the Neutral Behemoths at the start of the game, I found Omnistones to be very common in these areas.
in Dauntless Guides | <urn:uuid:96b5c244-d32b-4d59-b6cd-f3dbca3c5ab3> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.gamersheroes.com/game-guides/where-to-find-omnistone-in-dauntless/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.947365 | 208 | 1.570313 | 2 |
Located in a lush valley in Oita Prefecture’s western Sarayama district, Ontayaki Pottery Village moves to a steady rhythm of its own. There’s no mistaking its distinctive sounds — rushing water, a splash and a thump before the sequence repeats in an almost hypnotic fashion that seems to reverberate in the 300-year-old commune.
Made up of a cluster of traditional clay-roof (kawara) houses and climbing kilns (nobori-gama) dotting a narrow road that winds toward a museum, Onta can be covered on foot in less than an hour. But the tranquil mode is instant and any urge to rush is likely to slip away as soon as you get here.
It didn’t take us long to find the source of the village’s au naturel BGM, which is also designated as one of the best soundscapes in Japan that need to be preserved. Scattered throughout the village are wooden mortars (karausu) powered by river water and designed to pulverize clay rocks gathered from the surrounding mountains. In mesmerizing slow motion, the seesaw-like contraptions creak as they swing down to pound orange-brown rocks into powder, which is then mixed with water for crafting Onta ceramic ware, or Ontayaki.
If you’ve set foot in a trendy interior store in Tokyo, you would likely have come across an Ontayaki plate, bowl or mug. Rustic and sturdy with earthy tones, Ontayaki is characterized by hand-carved geometric patterns (tobikanna), brush streaks (hakeme), dripping designs (nagashi-kake) and finger markings (yubi-kake).
It’s not all trend and no substance though. In 1995, Ontayaki was designated as one of the most important intangible cultural properties in Japan. In 2008, the entire village was deemed an important cultural landscape.
But it hasn’t always been like this. From its founding in 1705 to the early 20th century, Onta was an anonymous half-farmer and half-potter commune tucked away from the rest of the world. In 1931, however, philosopher and founder of Japan’s Mingei (folk art) movement, Yanagi Muneyoshi (or Soetsu), was lured to Onta after encountering its ceramic ware in Fukuoka.
Mingei exalts the beauty of ordinary and utilitarian items created by unknown craftsmen for daily use. For Yanagi, Ontayaki exemplifies the Mingei philosophy. In his book Hita no Sarayama, he referred to Ontayaki as the “world’s number one folk pottery,” shining a spotlight on Onta and its ceramic ware. The village was later brought to the world’s attention when famous British potter Bernard Leach worked in residence here in the 1950s and 1960s.
Life in Onta hasn’t much changed over the past three centuries. Today, nine families operate workshops that trace their lineage to three main founders. Literally a closed community, each family’s pottery techniques are strictly handed down from father to son (only one successor is allowed), while each workshop is limited to two kilns to ensure sufficient resources for future generations. You won’t find any electric machinery in the production process even now.
As a collective community, Onta’s ceramic products don’t bear individual potters’ names. If they are marked, each plate, bowl or cup carries the sign of the village, signifying them as the work of a collective body. Despite its growing popularity, Onta has steadfastly avoided the pitfall of mass consumerism, as its residents stick by their age-old principles of sustainability and balanced moderation even before they became a thing.
Cell signal is nonexistent here, making it a perfect spot for a digital detox even just for an afternoon. It’s a good idea to start off with a tour of the village’s museum to get to know the production process and a brief history of Ontayaki (even if you don’t understand Japanese, there are enough visuals to give you a rough idea), before working your way down the village.
On an early summer afternoon, every corner we turned led us to evocative scenes of daily life from a bygone era that wouldn’t look out of place in an Yasujiro Ozu movie. As residents went about their daily life and pottery work, we wandered freely in and out of each of the family’s unmanned shops. When a purchase has been decided, visitors have to ring a bell or simply call out to get the owner’s attention. With their creamy white glaze and brown hues, Ontayaki tableware is almost certain to turn every dish into a visual feast and we definitely found ourselves ringing the bell more than a few times.
It’s best to access the village by car because public transportation can be sporadic. Onta is a 20-minute drive from Hita Station. But if you have to, you can take the Kyudai Main Line train from Oita Station to Hita Station (about 50 minutes), followed by a bus to Sarayama.
All photos were taken by the author | <urn:uuid:13b93ed3-3525-44b5-bc3f-00509ebd0351> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.tokyoweekender.com/2021/07/ontayaki/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572089.53/warc/CC-MAIN-20220814234405-20220815024405-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.956564 | 1,139 | 2.3125 | 2 |
By: Jennifer Britt
The Parsons Advocate
Kevin White, Director of the Tucker County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) was honored during the Tucker County Commissioners meeting by Warning Coordination Meteorologist Fred McMullen of the National Weather Service from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania for making Tucker County StormReady. Tucker County has become the 18th county in West Virginia to be honored with this certificate of recognition. A sign that can be placed on a roadway and states Tucker County is StormReady was also presented to White.
The StormReady status will be in effect for four years and will need to be renewed by application prior to its expiration date. Included with White’s recognition a letter signed by James Frazier, the StormReady program leader from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania said, “Tucker County has seen it fair share of severe weather and flooding. Since 1950, there have been over 120 reported events of severe weather which does not include the June 23, 1994, Appalachian Tornado Outbreak where an F3 and F4 tornado impacted the county.
The F3 tornado struck Thomas around 10:30 p.m. causing a reported three fatalities and 25 injuries plus numerous reports of leveled homes and even two army camp sites.
The F4, which more impacted Shinnston, West Virginia, still managed to produce three fatalities in the far southwest corner of Tucker County before its path of destruction came to an end near Harman in Randolph County.
Thunderstorm downburst winds also pose a significant threat to the area, like the July 27, 2014, microburst near Pleasant Run that has estimated winds of 105 to 110 mph and caused numerous tree and power line damage.
Winter Storms are just as impactful throughout the county, with single day snow fall measurements near Davis, West Virginia exceeding one foot 11 times just since 2002.”
The National Weather Service page found at www.weather.gov/stormready explains what it means to be StormReady: “Being part of a Weather-Ready Nation is about preparing for your community’s increasing vulnerability to extreme weather and water events. Americans live in the most severe weather-prone country on Earth. You can make sure your community is StormReady. Some 98 percent of all Presidentially declared disasters are weather related, leading to around 500 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage.
The StormReady program helps arm America’s communities with the communication and safety skills needed to save lives and property–before, during and after the event. StormReady helps community leaders and emergency managers strengthen local safety programs.
StormReady communities, counties, Indian nations, universities and colleges, military bases, government sites, commercial enterprises and other groups are better prepared to save lives from the onslaught of severe weather through advanced planning, education and awareness. No community is storm proof, but StormReady can help communities save lives.
StormReady uses a grassroots approach to help communities develop plans to handle all types of extreme weather—from tornadoes to winter storms. The program encourages communities to take a new, proactive approach to improving local hazardous weather operations by providing emergency managers with clear-cut guidelines on how to improve their hazardous weather operations. Applying is easy. To be officially StormReady, a community must:
- Establish a 24-hour warning point and emergency operations center
- Have more than one way to receive severe weather warnings and forecasts and to alert the public
- Create a system that monitors weather conditions locally
- Promote the importance of public readiness through community seminars
- Develop a formal hazardous weather plan, which includes training severe weather spotters and holding emergency exercises.”
McMullen said, “Kevin (White) works with us during major events like the triathlon and big outdoor events. We give him weather briefings ahead of time. That way he knows what the hazards are going into the event. He is also a part of annual distribution lists that includes a watch list for severe weather alerts, and he starts conference calls with all state, local and federal officials. He has been a great part in it for us. Kevin (White) is well attuned, and he is working great with us. We are appreciative of all the efforts that he has done.”
White thanked the Commission by saying, “Thank you for the support and allowing us to do that because without your support it would not have gotten done.” Commissioner Mike Rosenau said, “It is well deserved and without you (speaking to White) it would not have gotten done.” To which White responded with, “It is a team effort!” | <urn:uuid:04f0033d-3400-4785-9e5d-d67387640989> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://parsonsadvocate.com/news/pa-top-stories/headlines/oem-director-kevin-white-honored-with-stormready-recognition/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.957523 | 937 | 2.046875 | 2 |
The Sawston Story
Sawston Wealth Management, LLC was founded by Colleen and Patrick Gillespie in 2015, on the principles of faith, family and legacy. Named after Sawston Hall, an English Tudor manor 20 miles from Cambridge, England, Sawston Hall was owned by Colleen's family, the Huddleston's for nearly 500 years. The Sawston estate became a part of history in 1553 when Mary Tudor (soon to be Mary I of England), fleeing imprisonment by the Duke of Northumberland, spent the night at Sawston Hall. Northumberland’s soldiers followed Mary to Sawston Hall, forcing her to flee the next morning disguised as a dairymaid. As she fled, the soldiers lit the medieval manor on fire, destroying a large portion of the hall.
The Hall was re-built by Sir John and Edmund Huddleston between 1557-1584 with the help of a license granted by Queen Mary to use stone from Cambridge Castle. In appreciation of our family’s legacy, Sawston Wealth Management, LLC assists our clients in reaching their financial goals and creating their own legacies | <urn:uuid:d62b84ac-a7f1-4de7-93ca-cb2f6a5b1dd3> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://sawstonwealth.com/who-we-are/the-sawston-story | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.962324 | 237 | 1.515625 | 2 |
Quick Way to Understand South Africa's New Child Visa Laws
The South African government’s new child visa laws came into play on 1 June 2015.
According to Mayihlome Tshwete, South African Department of Home Affairs Spokesperson, “The new visa regulations are here for the foreseeable future.”
The South African Department of Home Affairs published standard operating proceduresfor airlines and the tourism industry to follow. The department also published a leaflet on their website, intended to help would-be travellers.
In an email sent to all members of the Southern African Tourism Services Association (SATSA), David Frost, SATSA CEO, said that he found the documents “shockingly complicated”.
"The regulations are complex, daunting and not easily accessible for local and international travellers", says Russell Jarvis, head of communication at Travelstart South Africa.
"Travellers need to know exactly what documents they require for a seamless and stress-free entry into our beautiful country’s borders."
A quick way to understand South Africa's new child visa laws
To help would-be travellers understand these new requirements better, Drive South Africa created the Child Visa Checklist app.
The app provides an easy-to-understand checklist of documents required by anyone travelling to or from South Africa with children -- for their particular child-travel scenario.
The web-based app -- which works on mobile and desktop -- helps users see precisely what travel documents they need, in three quick clicks or taps.
According to Andre Van Kets, creator of the Child Visa Checklist App, “there are 15 different possible documents and 37 unique scenarios for children travelling in and out of South Africa.”
“We initially create the app so that our travel consultants could fully understand the new child visa requirements, and better serve our clients. The app was so well received, that we’ve decided to go ‘open source’ with it and let anyone in the tourism industry -- and travellers themselves -- access the information,” says Van Kets.
The screenshot below shows the three steps. A user selects an option under each step and the app will display a checklist of documents unique to that particular scenario.
A user of the Child Visa Checklist app selects options indicating that their child is travelling unaccompanied, the parents are married, and the parents are the child’s biological parents.
After selecting these options, the app displays a checklist of documents need for that particular scenario.
App growing in popularity
Since the launch of the app on 30 May 2015, the app has been accessed more than 8000 times by users from South Africa and 102 other countries.
Countries include: United Kingdom, Germany, The Netherlands, Italy, Australia, United States, United Arab Emirates, Swaziland, Mozambique and Malawi.
The app has been shared more than 1300 on Facebook and other social media platforms.
Travel agencies around the world are using the app to advise clients travelling to South Africa with children under 18 years.
“Thanks for creating this app. It will be a fabulous tool to help get our clients organized!” says Amy Green, Client Services Director of US-based travel agency Hills of Africa.
The Child Visa Checklist app was built in consultation with a panel of experts including:
- Megan Harrington-Johnson- Senior associate attorney, practicing family law at Schindlers Attorneys in Johannesburg, South Africa. Megan has engaged actively in the child visa regulations debate, from a legal perspective, since it first came to light in 2013. http://www.schindlers.co.za/our-lawyers/megan-harrington-johnson/
Andre Van Kets - Cofounder and Director of online travel company Discover Africa Group in Cape Town, South Africa. Andre has developed various online tools to help people planning their travels around Africa including HerdTracker, South Africa's first Toll Road Cost Calculatorand the South African Fuel Cost Calculator.
- Tourism Industry Leaders - Various members of the South Africa travel and tourism industry have also been consulted during the process of building the app, including David Frost, CEO of SATSAand Otto de Vries, CEO of ASATA.
About Drive South Africa
Drive South Africa is a car rental agency offering car, 4x4 and camper rentals. Based in Cape Town, South Africa, Drive South Africa has also created numerous road travel tools and guides which help people plan a self-drive trip to South Africa.
Child Visa Checklist App:
Fact Sheet & Images
For more information contact:
021 422 3498 / 073 612 0850 | <urn:uuid:54431790-2d16-426a-bb82-d3671cf6dc72> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://atta.travel/news/2015/06/quick-way-to-understand-south-africas-new-child-visa-laws/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.915602 | 967 | 1.921875 | 2 |
'At the (Periyar's Superstition Eradication) conference a large number of rather earthy posters were taken out in procession. They ridiculed various Vedic and puranic stories about the gods. For example, Murugan in the form of Shiva's son Skanda or Kartikeya, is said in the Puranas to have been produced by Shiva's 'seed' which was cast into fire. A Salem poster portrayed Brahmin priests standing around Shiva, looking as though they were masturbating him while Parvati, Shiva's wife, held her hand out.'
- Charles Ryerson (1988): Regionalism and Religion: The Tamil Renaissance and Popular Hinduism. First edition. Madras: Christian Literary Society. Page 176. quoted in MSS Pandian (2007): Brahmins and Non-Brahmins: New Delhi: Permanent Black.
This 'hyper-literal reading' at the Salem procession predictably generated heated conversations and debates. But cadres were neither threatened nor physically attacked. Tamil Nadu, in 1971, was at least willing to engage with such provocative counter-readings.
With 45 years of Dravidian rule and the recent revival of Hindutva project or modernising brahmanical dharma in Tamil Nadu, intolerance has seen a meteoric rise. Rights to free speech are either compromised or individuals (and their families) who speak their minds are threatened in order to restore the provincial cultural pride which fundamentally defends caste identity and discriminatory practices.
Tamil Nadu which was once home to social reform movement based on irreverent-rationalism, anti-Hindu-atheism and self-respect movement is now in a fervent state of loving Iyyappan (vegetarian-exclusive-ritual to men) and obsessing over Vinayagarsathurthi - virtually non-existent about 20 years ago - that is blatantly brahmanical.
Recently, intermediary upper caste youths from Krishnagiri urinated in a Dalit youth's mouth and civic-minded elders have been passionate about building roadside temples to stop public urination in Tamil Nadu.
Television channels owned by self-respecting Dravidian political parties have programmes on astrology; progressive newspapers advertise Brahmin-only classifieds and vegetarians progressives are forever obsessed with the problems of the other and not of their own practices.
In Tamil Nadu, the politics of intolerance is supported by all groups: Caste Hindus, media and broadcasting houses, political parties, progressives and intellectuals.
Perumal Murugan's poignant text on his literary death as one of his books has allegedly offended members of his community, has deservedly revived debates on free speech and freedom of expression in Tamil Nadu. But this support cannot be seen as a unanimous voice for free speech but a generous support extended to an individual author by a few sympathisers.
Perumal Murugan and his family is threatened for the book he had originally published in 2010 in Tamil and just before the launch of its English edition which is now freely available online for sale. But the Tamil edition is withdrawn from the shelf.
In fact, Murugan was lucky to have received support from several others who have either remained selectively-silent or actively voiced against free speech in the past.
Almost every social and political group which has raised its voice in support of Perumal Murugan, have practised intolerance and stood against free speech in different instances (see Table).
Dalit writer, Durai Guna, was forced to leave his residence after publishing Oorar Varaintha Oviyam and his family has been subjected to social boycott. Another writer Ma Mu Kannan remained calm when arsonists burnt his entire library into ashes.
In another incident, a Tamil Muslim research scholar HG Rasool was threatened for his views on Tamil Muslim cultures (as opposed to pan-Islamic practices). Literary figures remained silent, partial and were conscious of not hurting the sensibilities of minority groups.
Later, Sahitya Akademi winner Joe D'Cruz's work on the coastal and fisher folks' lives - one of the most marginalised subjects in contemporary Tamil literature - was withdrawn by both author-translator V Geetha and the publishing house Navayana in protest against Cruz's pro-Modi sentiments (Navayana published Namedeo Dhasal's poetry after he had joined the RSS).
Employing self-censorship, Tamil literary figures took an exception to Cruz's pro-Modi comment and silently killed the wider distribution of his text which is about one of the marginalised communities in Tamil Nadu.
But Tamil progressives and literary figures did not bat an eye lid when Ashokamithiran, an influential figure in the post-independent Tamil literature, notoriously compared the Brahmins' situation in Tamil Nadu with the state of 1930s Jews.
In order to appease religious outfits and casteist forces, the state government behaves like khap panchayat and frequently bans texts, films and other forms of contents.
To use Baudrillard's phrase, 'the perfect crime' against free speech in Tamil Nadu is being executed in full public view without any evidence: Because the entire society is the perpetrator.
The philistinic-pride of Tamil culture is omnipresent and growing. Even Dalit parties have to rebrand themselves as guardians of Tamil culture. Continuous degeneration of rationalism and normalising caste with culture are the real problems.
At the everyday level, casteism is being normalised in Tamil Nadu in the name of cultural identity, natural affinity for those who are alike. Incidences of endogamy are strikingly higher amongst Tamil progressives.
Another growing multiculturalistic view, often adopted by cultural custodians, is that one should aspire to respect and tolerate each other's caste as cultural rather than challenging caste as a source of fundamental problem in the society. In such an environment, all texts by Periyar could be classified as hate speech materials.
In a society like Tamil Nadu, where caste, class, religion and gender are sources for feeding inequality, freedom of speech should be absolute and be placed above cultural relativism. In other words, tolerating fierce debate and discussions should be the basis for cultural sensitivity.
If Hindutva forces are going to find a new home in this Dravidian state, it is due to - not in spite of - today's politics in Tamil Nadu.
Select incidences of intolerance in Tamil Nadu in the last ten years
|Who and what?||Why?||Who found it offensive?||Forms of intolerance||When?|
Kushboo (actress) For her sensible remark on safe pre-marital sex practices
|Threat to Tamil culture|
PMK and VCK
Threatened by mobs Mass protests were organised Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP) strategy was deployed to intimidate and silence Kushboo.
HG Rasool (researcher)
Published a research article on Tamil Muslim cultures.
Offensive to believers of Islam
|Fellow community members|
Excommunicated: Family was threatened and fatwa issued.
Deafening silence from the progressives, intellectuals and in the media.
Thushara Peiris (Sri Lankan film director)
Director of a film called Pirabhakaran
|Tamil pride and sentiments hurt||All major political parties and select members of Tamil cinema industry||Physically attacked; copies of his film were allegedly seized from the lab.||2008|
Dam 999 (film)
Story about the massive loss of lives and destruction of property due to the sudden collapse of a dam.
|Allegedly insinuated public panic and opinion over the safety of Mullaperiyaar dam||AIDMK, DMK, PMK, VCK, Tamil nationalism protest groups, members from Tamil cinema industry||Film banned in Tamil Nadu.||2011|
Ma Mu Kannan
Author of Kaana -inaavin Kanini and Karuvatturatham
|Offensive to his own community members||Fellow community members|
Personal library torched. Hut vandalised and photo studio damaged.
Feared for his life, Kannan has been living away from his village in Pudukkottai since 2012.
|Sri Lankan pilgrims||Support to Sri Lankan Tamils||Various random Tamil nationalist outfits||Physically attacked and threatened.||2012|
|Offensive portrayal of Tamil Muslims as terrorists and other communities||Tamil Nadu Progressive Muslim Federation (TMMK) Hindu MakkalKatchi Tamil Nadu Brahmins Association ADMK justified the ban to maintain law and order. VCK objected to the content and sympathised with muslims that they have been forced to seek a ban.||Initially banned but after negotiations the state permitted screening of the film with bleep-outs.||2013|
(Film director With You, Without You)
|(Sri Lankan) Tamil politics and sensibilities hurt||Various random Tamil nationalist outfits||Commercial release banned. Private viewing organised.||2014|
Joe D Cruz
Aazhisoolulagu (Ocean ringed earth)
|Portrayal of fisher folks offensive to his own community members Self-censorship by literary figures after Cruz’s support to Modi||Members from his community, leftists, progressives and intellectuals from Tamil Nadu||Ex-communicated by his own villagers and from the local church. Self-censorship by a publishing house and literary figures.||2014|
Perumal Murugan (Author) for his novel Maadhurobhagan
|Cultural sensibilities of the region hurt||People from Thiruchengodu, caste groups and Hindu religious groups||State mediated out of court withdrawal of the text.||2015|
Durai Guna (Dalit writer) author of the novel Oorar Varaintha Oviyam
|Sensibilities of caste Hindus hurt||Upper caste members||Socially boycotted, excommunicated and physically attacked by his own community.||2015| | <urn:uuid:7aa8af58-310a-439a-b06f-f5a83c0710da> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.dailyo.in/politics/tamil-nadu-periyar-hindutva-free-speech-perumal-murugan-dalits-rss-3002 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.951666 | 2,111 | 2.015625 | 2 |
The miraculous nature of both honey and olive oil cannot be expounded enough. In the Quran Allah swears by the Olive (Surah Teen, Juz 30) and refers to it as ‘Blessed.’ This is not just in reference to the olive itself, but also its oil.
Both the holy Qur’an and Hadith refer to honey as a healer of disease.
‘And thy Lord taught the bee to build its cells in hills, on trees and in (men’s) habitations….. there issues from within their bodies a drink of varying colours, wherein is healing for mankind. Verily in this is a Sign for those who give thought’.Translation of Quran 16:68-69
In addition, the Prophet (PBUH) said:
‘Honey is a remedy for every illness and the Qur’an is a remedy for all illness of the mind, therefore I recommend to you both remedies, the Qur’an and honey’Bukhari
Olive oil and honey are healthy products for your hair and health. Honey has been used for centuries as a beauty treatment in skin and hair preparations. Olive oil is known for its many health uses in diet and beauty. Combine the two in a recipe for an olive oil and honey hair treatment that is easy to use and benefits your hair.
Benefits of Olive Oil
Olive oil is good for conditioning and dandruff control, according to The Olive Source. It is made up of monounsaturated fatty acids with strong antioxidants, and vitamins A and E, which help moisturize and repair skin and hair.
Benefits of Honey
The benefits of honey are numerous. Honey is a humectant; it attracts and holds moisture, explains the National Honey Board. This makes it a good choice for damaged or dry hair. It also has antimicrobial properties that make it an effective cleanser, according to a study conducted by researchers at the University of Amsterdam and published in the March 2010 issue of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology journal. Honey was shown to be effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria. It is also shown to have anti inflammatory properties and is good for burns and healing wounds.
Take 1/2 cup honey and mix it with 1/4 cup olive oil. If needed, warm the mixture in a microwave for 15 seconds. Use your fingers to apply a small amount of the mixture on damp hair, working it through the strands, down to the ends. Cover your hair with a towel and leave the mixture on for 30 minutes. Shampoo well, rinse and dry as normal.
Olive oil is available in many different grades and prices. Extra virgin olive oil is considered the highest quality and a good choice for condiments and beauty products. It is the least processed and comes from the first pressing of the olives. This oil is high in antioxidants and bitter to the taste, as noted by The Olive Oil Source. Virgin olive oil is from the second pressing, and pure oil undergoes some filtering and refining. Extra light olive oil is filtered
further, leaving a much lighter flavour. Honey is also available in varying grades and sources. The colour and flavour depend on the source of the bee’s nectar or blossoms used to make the honey. They are usually not processed and will be different shades of amber. Choose a pure honey for your hair treatment.
Honey and Olive oil can also be used for various different face masks too, which we will provide at a later date inshaa-Allah. | <urn:uuid:3ebdbe56-36e6-4bf0-934b-a2727e261c37> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://centralmosquerochdale.com/sisters/lifestyle/honey-and-olive-oil/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.961684 | 736 | 2.484375 | 2 |
Coral Gables RICO & Racketeering Attorney
The term RICO refers to the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act enacted by federal lawmakers in 1970. The law was primarily aimed at targeting individuals involved in organized crime, though law enforcement and prosecutors have since broadened the interpretation of the law to charge businesses and individuals with RICO violations who were never initially considered under the law. Florida also enacted its own RICO statute and state prosecutors regularly issue charges on the state level. While Florida’s statute is similar to the federal RICO law, there are several important differences, as well.
RICO cases are extremely complex and often require extensive investigations, including wiretaps or even undercover operations. Anyone who believes they may be under suspicion of a RICO violation should contact an experienced Florida criminal defense immediately to discuss your rights and prepare a defense.
Requirements for RICO Convictions
Under Florida law, RICO violations apply to individuals who have engaged in a pattern of racketeering, generally as part of an organized enterprise. “Racketeering” can refer to conspiring to commit certain offenses, attempting to commit such offenses, soliciting or intimidating another individual so that they commit an offense, or actually committing the offense yourself. To qualify as a pattern of racketeering, you must engage in at least two acts of racketeering within a five-year period.
The Florida statute includes a long list of offenses that can qualify as predicate acts for RICO purposes, only some of which include as follows:
- Assault and battery
- Many types of financial fraud
- Robbery or theft
- Drug crimes
- Unlawful gambling activities
- Firearm and weapons offenses
- Unlawful activities related to tobacco and alcohol
- Jury or witness tampering
- Other obstruction of justice
- Arson, burglary, or trespass
- Sexual battery
- Sexual exploitation of children
- Human trafficking or kidnapping
Again, you do not have to actually engage in any of these offenses yourself, as conspiracy or solicitation also qualify as predicate acts under RICO.
Penalties for RICO convictions
Any individual convicted under Florida’s RICO statute faces the following potential consequences:
- First degree felony conviction
- Up to 30 years in state prison
- Fine of $10,000 or more, depending on the losses or injuries to others
As you can see, Florida authorities take RICO acts very seriously and you never want to face RICO charges without the highest quality of legal defense. These cases are usually complicated with many different types of evidence, witnesses, and allegations. You need a defense attorney who understands how to build an aggressive defense specifically against RICO allegations.
Contact a skilled Coral Gables RICO defense attorney for a free consultation today
Coral Gables RICO defense attorney Alfredo A. Izaguirre has the knowledge and resources necessary to defend anyone facing RICO charges in Florida. If you are under investigation or have already been accused of any type of racketeering activity in or around the Coral Gables or Miami area, please contact our office today to discuss your case. Call 305-442-0425 for a free consultation to learn how we can help protect your rights in your criminal case. | <urn:uuid:a551879f-46c8-4ea2-b0f6-293ba9df5c94> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.izaguirrelaw.com/coral-gables-criminal-attorney/rico-defense/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.945161 | 677 | 1.523438 | 2 |
Earlier this year, Steve McCarroll announced that his team had discovered the gene that most powerfully drives our risk of schizophrenia. Known as C4, it was previously viewed as an immune-system gene, but clearly, it also does something in the brain. To work out what, McCarroll first needed to know which cells in the brain activate C4.
Easier said than done: “There’s no place for looking that up,” he says. Instead, his team had to examine slices from over 700 postmortem brains, and stain them with a dozen different-colored antibodies that recognize C4. “The slices were variable in quality. The antibodies were variable in quality. It took us almost a year to get satisfying answers. It was a slog.”
McCarroll’s lament is a common one. Geneticists are constantly learning about genes that influence our risk of disease, but genes don’t perform in a vacuum. They perform in our cells. And since the 30 trillion cells in your body all share the same genes, you need to know which cells are actually using the gene in question. Where are those cells? What do they do normally, and what goes wrong in cases of disease? And in most cases, without the kind of slog that McCarroll endured, the answers are: we don’t know; no idea; and, ¯\_(ツ)_/¯.
Without such answers, a lot of the hype around biomedical advances becomes wishful thinking. With stem cells, scientists hope to re-grow damaged or lost tissues, but how do we regenerate something when we don’t entirely know what it’s composed of? With gene-editing techniques like CRISPR, we will supposedly hack diseases out of our DNA, but without deep knowledge of our cells, how do we know what to edit?
Our cells are the basic unit of our bodies—the stage upon which our genes enact their dramas. And simply put, “we really don’t know our cells.” says Aviv Regev from the Broad Institute. “And so we don’t know ourselves.”
Consider this fairly basic question: How many types of cells are there in the body? Around 200, according to several introductory pages from the National Institutes of Health. That figure corresponds to major groups, like neurons, heart cells, muscle cells, and more. But if you ask an immunologist, they’ll tell you there are at least 200 types of immune cells alone. Ask an immunologist who specializes in T-cells, and they’ll tell you there are at least 200 of those.
When I met Regev last year, she spent a good 15 minutes talking about all the variations within our cells. There are subtypes upon subtypes upon subtypes, she said. The retina alone contains at least 100 different classes of neurons. To complicate matters, some types of cells can transform into others. And each subtype can exist in many different states based on its environment, its neighbors, its position in a tissue, and the molecules it encounters.
“All of these things, the type and the subtype, the states, the locations, and the transitions … you’d want to know all of them,” Regev told me. She let her words hang, and she smiled gently. Because she had a plan to do exactly that: to know everything.
Over the last few years, Regev has been slowly laying the foundations for compiling a Human Cell Atlas—a complete portrait of our cells in all their staggering diversity. It would list every subtype, how they change over time, where they are found, and which genes they switch on. Much like the first fully-sequenced human genome, it would be a resource so fundamental that biologists will use it many times a day without even thinking about it—a comprehensive, searchable Google Maps for the human body.
Creating such a resource is ambitious to say the least, and would have seemed impossible just five years ago. But thanks to technological advances, Regev and others think that the time is right. “The idea has been bubbling,” says Sarah Teichmann from the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute. “I had talked with someone about this four years ago. At the time, it seemed a bit crazy. Even now, it seems crazy—but also more feasible. And people are willing to consider it.”
That’s partly due to Regev, who has been evangelizing for the atlas since 2014. She is widely respected, and not just for her boundless energy and fierce intellect. “She’s one of the smartest people I’ve ever met, but also intense, perceptive, compassionate and caring,” says Dana Pe’er from Columbia University.
Case in point: Last June, at a meeting, Regev noticed that Pe’er was suffering from back pain, surreptitiously emailed her to ask if she was okay, and texted a colleague to bring in a more comfortable chair—all while leading a debate between big-name scientists and summarizing their discussion in real time. “The people sitting right next to me didn’t notice a thing,” says Pe’er. “Aviv did, from the other side of the room with a bad field of view.”
Yesterday, in London, Regev and Teichmann convened another meeting of like-minded scientists who were interested in their vision of a cell atlas. The event was effectively a soft launch—not of the atlas itself, but of a budding community that will actually start making it happen.
They already have a funding commitment from the Chan-Zuckeberg Initiative—the recently formed company that is aiming to “cure, prevent or manage all disease by the end of this century.” “The Human Cell Atlas would be a transformative technology that advances all of science,” CZI President Cori Bargmann told the assembled researchers. “We’re pretty much on board with saying that this should happen, and we want to help make it happen with the people in this room.”
“It was as if we thought that everyone in a city wore green shirts, and it turned out that some wore blue and some wore yellow.”
As is often the way in science, Regev’s dream for the Human Cell Atlas began with a simple surprise.
When scientists study cells, they typically smoosh a large population of them together. They get a clear portrait of an average cell, but they whitewash all the diversity within the group. To unveil that diversity, Regev and others had been developing hardware and software for studying single cells. She first turned those tools onto a group of immune cells called dendritic cells back in 2012, isolating just 18 of these cells and cataloguing all the genes that they were activating.
“We were immediately astounded,” she says. It turned out that 3 of those 18 cells were switching on very different sets of genes than the others. What was supposedly a pure sample of identical cells turned out to be a pool of two distinct types. “It was as if we thought that everyone in a city wore green shirts, and it turned out that some wore blue and some wore yellow.”
She repeated the study with over 1,700 dendritic cells, and found even more variation. Dendritic cells are watchmen: they grab molecules that could be signs of infectious threats, and present those molecules to the rest of the immune system for inspection. But in response to the same molecules, seemingly identical cells would react by switching on different genes. Some did so much earlier than others, and then instigated the responses of their more apathetic neighbors.
These experiments showed Regev how much she and other scientists were missing. “All of these years, when we did these studies, we would grow millions of cells in a dish and pretend they were one,” she says. “We’d take these average measurements and say: A cell! We knew that wasn’t correct, but you work with what you have.”
But technology has changed, in both power and affordability. It cost Regev thousands of dollars to analyze just those 18 dendritic cells in 2012. By 2013, with some robotics, she had taken the price down to ten bucks a cell.
McCarroll, who also works at the Broad Institute, pushed the cost down even further. He and his team developed a technique called DropSeq, which sends cells down extremely narrow canals, single file, and incarcerates them in droplets of oil. Each oily cage is a millionth of a milliliter in volume, and contains precisely one prisoner. Once in solitary confinement, the cells can be split open and their DNA can be sequenced. So can their RNA—a related molecule that reveals which genes are being switched on.
With DropSeq, Regev and McCarroll can simultaneously study hundreds of thousands of single cells, at just 6 cents each. They can start doing the work it would take to actually build a Human Cell Atlas in a cost-effective way. “Aviv has been pushing the cutting edge to do things that almost seem impossible, and she’s made unbelievable ground in a very short period of time,” adds Pe’er. “I didn’t think it could be done that fast.”
“At first people will say it’s impossible. Later, they’ll say it was obvious.”
The Human Cell Atlas isn’t just an academic cataloguing exercise. It might be the key to making the promises of biomedicine real.
When geneticists identify genes behind diseases, they want to understand where those genes are active. When immunologists engineer cells to attack cancers based on the molecules on their surface, they’d better know whether healthy cells somewhere in the body naturally harbor those same molecules. And when tissue engineers dream of growing new organs in a lab, they need to know if what they’re producing actually matches their natural counterparts.
The Human Cell Atlas isn’t going to reveal everything about our bodies, just as the Human Genome Project didn’t tell us everything about our genes. But it should provide a foundational resource—something that spurs countless future experiments and makes those experiments easier. “Think of what having the genome has done for biology: We can find genes that cause disease, and sequence tumors, and personalize medicine,” says Pe’er. “I think the Human Cell Atlas would have the same impact. And we need it to make sense of our genome.”
It might also help scientists to make more use of finished research. Researchers have already sequenced the DNA of countless tissue samples, taken from people with cancer and all kinds of other conditions. Regev can look at those sequences and, with a few computational tricks, reverse-engineer which types of cells were present.
She has already tried this with melanoma skin cancers. “We can say this tumor pretty much only had malignant cells, or this one had a lot of immune cells,” she says. “There’s so much hidden there that we don’t yet know.” That might help cancer biologists to better classify tumors into distinct types, and develop more effective tailor treatments—all without collecting anything new. “These samples come from people who had diseases,” she adds. “We owe them and the taxpayers to learn the maximum amount we can.”
Skeptics might argue that tech aside, the Human Cell Atlas is still implausible. The Human Genome Project had an obvious endpoint—produce a near-complete genome. But cataloguing our cells seems like fighting a Hydra—find one subtype and two more rise to take its place. Regev thinks otherwise. “Is every cell going to be its own special snowflake? I would say not,” she says. “They group into stable categories.”
The task is huge, but neither infinite nor insurmountable. And at the very least, the atlas initiative will tell us how big it is. Put it this way: our knowledge of our cells is currently like a blurry map of the world, with the outlines of continents and oceans but little else. The Human Cell Atlas will offer better resolution—it will map the position of all the mountains and rivers, even if every single rock and stream isn’t known.
Indeed, Regev has already been running pilot projects to show that the atlas is both feasible and valuable. She can identify all the major known cell types in the retina of a mouse, and has even found a few new ones—an astonishing feat given how well-studied that tissue is. She’s now looking at tumors, immune cells, the gut, and two parts of the brain.
She’s not alone. Many other groups of scientists are running similar projects using their own techniques for analyzing single cells. Smaller-scale atlases are already underway. The BRAIN Initiative—the Obama administration’s bold plan to understand the brain—included a census of cell types as its first goal. “Individual projects are taking bite-size chunks out of this problem,” says Richard Conroy from the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering. “The question is how to pool all this together into a complete picture.”
Yesterday’s meeting was the first step. The gathered researchers included several pioneers of single-cell genomics—Pe’er, Stephen Quake of Stanford University, Sten Linnarson from Stockholm’s Karolinska Institute, and many others—who are now firmly on board with the Atlas initiative. Together, they started hashing out its goals and details. Which organs should they look at first? How do they get samples from places like the pancreas, which are very hard to reach? Which techniques should they use? They talked technology and tactics. They shared opinions about obstacles and opportunities. And most of all, they got to know each other—which is exactly what Regev and Teichmann wanted.
The Atlas endeavor will “generate an international community of scientists who will know each other and continue to work with each other beyond the project itself,” said Mike Stratton from the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, who opened the meeting. “Many will be young and their lifelong scientific perspectives will be shaped by this initiative. What we’re starting off today will be creating a new field of human biology. That’s an immensely inspiring aim.”
“At first people will say it’s impossible,” adds Teichmann. “Later, they’ll say it was obvious.” | <urn:uuid:74fa0cc2-afde-47e1-837a-dc5b518eb508> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.eydoc.com/a-google-maps-for-the-human-body/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.970241 | 3,137 | 2.953125 | 3 |
Michigan panel to consider limits on toxic ‘forever chemicals’
Lansing – A Michigan panel is preparing to consider proposed limits on some nonstick, water-resistant chemicals in drinking water.
An oversight committee is expected to vote Thursday on regulations developed by the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy that would set maximum levels of seven types of chemicals known as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS.
The chemicals are used in a wide variety of industrial and consumer products and have been linked to numerous health problems, including liver damage, low birth weights and some types of cancer.
They are widely described as “forever chemicals” because they persist in the environment.
Among the compounds that would be regulated are PFOA and PFOS, which are among the oldest chemicals in the class and have been phased out in the United States.
The Environmental Rules Review Committee could approve or reject the proposed regulations or make changes. The rules would apply to about 2,700 water suppliers across the state.
They would have to sample their water periodically for the seven chemicals, notify the public if the maximum levels are exceeded, and use cleanup technology as needed.
Officials with the Michigan environment department said they had received more than 3,400 public comments on the proposals. | <urn:uuid:81eb7cb1-72fa-4211-9766-8d967f3cc63d> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2020/02/22/forever-chemicals-michigan-cancer-liver-birth-weight/111363120/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.977033 | 268 | 2.40625 | 2 |
The year 2012 marks the one hundredth anniversary of the birth
of conductor Günter Wand (1912-2002) in the German town of Elberfeld.
To coincide with this significant date Hänssler has released
this Wand set to complement and build on the label’s Deutsches
Symphonie-Orchester Berlin (DSO) series.
Originally formed in 1946 by the American radio station in a
divided Berlin as the ‘Radio in the American Sector’ (RIAS)
the orchestra became known as the Radio Symphonie-Orchester,
Berlin. Owing to another radio orchestra in Berlin with a similar
name the orchestra changed its name in 1993 to the Deutsches
Symphonie-Orchester Berlin (DSO).
It was not until he was over seventy that Günter Wand’s talents
became recognised internationally as a conductor of significant
stature. His relatively few commercial recordings involved duplication
of his much loved Bruckner, Beethoven and Schubert. His repertoire
was actually considerably wider than those three giants of the
Austro-German symphonic tradition. Many of his numerous early
broadcast tapes were lost when they were wiped and the reels
re-used. It was only in the 1950s and early 1960s when the practice
of wiping tapes ceased and broadcast recordings began being
archived. This set uses tapes from the archives of the radio
broadcasters Deutschlandradio and RBB. Until now these have
“been under lock and key” and have not previously been
Wand conducted his first DSO concert in 1983 then aged 71. He
became their honorary conductor in 1996 before leaving to concentrate
on his concerts with the neighbouring Berlin Philharmonic. It
was with that renowned orchestra that Wand made his finest Bruckner
recordings. He would conduct the DSO at the Schauspielhaus (which
was renamed the Konzerthaus in 1994) in the Berlin Gendarmenmarkt
or at the Philharmonie. The Berlin regional radio station Sender
Freies Berlin (SFB) recorded the majority of these concerts
including all the performances featured here.
This eight disc box has been divided into five volumes using
performance dates to group the various scores. On Volume 1 we
have Beethoven recordings with the DSO of the Symphony No. 6
in F major Pastoral, Op. 68 on CD 1 and the Symphony
No. 5 in C minor, Op. 57 on CD 2 made in 1992 at the Schauspielhaus,
Berlin. What is provided on CD 1 are rehearsals of the first
movement of the Symphony No. 6 Pastoral followed by
the run-through and on CD 2 rehearsals of movements one, two
and four of Symphony No. 5 followed by the run-through. On CD
3 the actual live concert performances of the two symphonies
from sell-out Schauspielhaus concerts in 1994 are also included.
One of Beethoven’s few explicitly programmatic scores the Symphony
No. 6 known as the Pastoral is given a buoyant and
cheerful interpretation by Wand. In the opening movement ‘Awakening
of cheerful feelings of life upon arrival in the countryside’
it feels as if Wand is opening the door to a bucolic Tyrolean
vista. The ‘Scene by the Brook’ flows genially with
especially impressive individual and collective woodwind contributions.
In the Finale, ‘Pastoral Song – Cheerful feelings
and gratitude after the Storm’ Wand underlines the glorious
themes with heart-warming control and refinement.
A core work in the symphonic repertoire Beethoven’s Symphony
No. 5 is justly world famous. Under Wand the interpretation
has a tautness together with a compelling excitement from start
to finish. In the rapt beauty of the Andante con moto
Wand conveys a disconcerting undercurrent of sorrow. Like an
awakening spirit the nobility of the Scherzo is thrilling.
In the transition from the Scherzo to the Finale
there is an ethereal splendour that explodes magnificently.
Solid and incise Wand ensures that the Finale has a
dramatic vitality whilst maintaining firm control.
Volume 2 on the single CD 4 comprises two symphonies that Wand
recorded with the DSO in 1987 at the Berlin Philharmonie. The
first score is Stravinsky’s The Firebird and Wand has
elected to play the composer’s 1945 suite that retains more
of the original ballet music. Also on the disc is Tchaikovsky’s
Symphony No.5 in E minor, Op.64 (1888). Based on Russian folk
tales The Firebird marked a new dawn in the evolution
of symphonic ballet. Now a repertoire staple The Firebird
is extremely successful. The alive and urgent interpretation
ensures that Stravinsky’s long flowing melodies brim with vivid
bright colours and excitement. Wand is not afraid to force the
dynamics and up the volume. I was struck by the gorgeous playing
in the famous Round Dance with its marvellously memorable
song-like melody. Here the DSO woodwind especially the oboe
in the Princesses' Khorovod theme are given
ample opportunity to shine. Thrilling and strident the Infernal
dance of King Kashchei is briskly played with significant
forward momentum. The percussion at the beginning and the end
has the sheer force of hammer-blows. The appealing music of
the Berceuse (Lullaby) is delightfully played
with Wand fashioning a sultry and exotic atmosphere. Heralded
by the horn the Finale is superbly done with an imposing
orchestral climax to the conclusion that is as thrilling as
I have ever heard.
Tchaikovsky was suffering from a deep depression when he commenced
his Fifth Symphony so it is no surprise that the score opens
in a grave mood with the sensitive Wand conveying a compelling
emotional response with the ‘fate’ motif. Anxiety verging on
despair is adeptly maintained with really thrilling orchestral
climaxes. In the second movement Wand blends sadness and stark
beauty to great effect. I was impressed by the broad dynamics
that range from the hushed to the menacingly thunderous. Any
temptation to overdo the sentimentality is resisted. The poignant
horn solo is expertly done and the brass roars out to rousing
effect. Instead of the usual Scherzo Tchaikovsky’s
highly appealing waltz produces vibrant and spirited playing.
Maintaining resolute control Wand builds full-blooded climaxes
and the exalted nature of the final bars.
Volume 3 is also a single disc (CD 5) recorded in 1988 at the
Berlin Philharmonie. Mozart Symphony No. 40 in G minor, K550
(1788) is the opening score followed by Tchaikovsky’s Symphony
No.6 in B minor Pathétique, Op. 74 (1893).
Mozart’s Symphony No. 40 in G minor, K550 known as the Great
G minor, composed in Vienna in 1789 is a highly emotional
work of sombre and dramatic power. In the first movement, without
pushing the limits, Wand explores a broad range of feelings
and emotions. Nicely controlled and making a wonderful sound
everything feels just perfect. Wand’s interpretation of the
Andante touches on melancholy with hints of foreboding.
The increase in orchestral weight was nicely controlled. Lively
and buoyant are the watchwords in the Menuetto which
is robust with a slight yet distinct military feel. I was impressed
with Wand’s nicely judged rhythms in the Finale and
he withstands any temptation to hurry. Wand’s robust interpretation
displays considerable resolve.
Universally known as the Pathétique Tchaikovsky’s Symphony
No. 6 is deeply moving and profound. This enduring masterwork
is widely considered to be his greatest composition. Tchaikovsky
died just over a week after its première in 1893 in St. Petersburg.
Wand’s opening with that famous heart-rending first theme is
impressive. The first movement is beautifully played and admirably
controlled but without the highest levels of emotional tension
that are sometimes heard. However, Wand does unearth a rather
shadowy undercurrent. He ensures that the memorable waltz movement
is light on its feet and the vibrantly scored march is urgent
and stirring that reveals a seam of melancholy. Wand unleashes
a furious and threatening brass-fuelled climax. In the heart-breaking
Finale marked Adagio lamentoso there’s a searing
emotional intensity before the mood fades into a shattering
and edgy sense of exhaustion.
Volume 4 is all-Bruckner on the two discs CD 6 and CD 7 recorded
at DSO concerts in 1994 at the Berlin Philharmonie. CD 6 offers
the original 1879/81 version of Bruckner’s Symphony No. 6 in
A major. The last track on CD 6 and the whole of CD 7 is Bruckner’s
Symphony No. 8 in C minor in the original 1884/90 version edited
by Robert Haas and published in 1939.
Bruckner’s Sixth Symphony was composed between 1879 and 1881
a critical time in his career that saw his reputation shift
from being considered an eccentric to becoming a valued musical
visionary. In the Sixth Symphony I was immediately struck by
the rapt beauty of the playing and the high quality of the recording.
Built out of his years of experience Wand navigates the shifting
emotions and delivers a coherent view of the whole structure
of the symphony. In the opening movement - notorious for its
difficulty – the tempi and rhythmic control feels perfect. There
is a strong sense of reverence in the Adagio which
is marked by heartfelt playing underlined by the stunning timbre
of the dark, low strings. The tempi in the Scherzo
are judiciously chosen. Bruckner’s expression is more obscure
than usual and the music is played with character and understanding.
I love the way the DSO brass can blaze out with fervour without
playing too loud and becoming distorted. In the emotional core
of the work Wand’s conducting of the Finale is a deeply
moving experience. Wand builds and maintains the emotional tension
to deliver a triumphant climax.
Bruckner was over sixty when he completed the revisions to his
gargantuan Eighth Symphony in 1890. He considered it his finest
work and dedicated it to the Austrian Emperor Franz Josef I.
Musicologist Hans Redlich described the symphony as “Promethean
in its aim, Faustian in spirit”. There’s a mysteriously
dark opening to the first movement from which Wand creates a
glorious soundscape. The music feels spectacular like a blue
sky appearing and disappearing through thick white clouds.
In the Scherzo Wand is in full accord with Bruckner’s
mature orchestration and dynamics. Thrilling playing creates
a powerful tension. The performance of the Adagio is
really special and lasts nearly half an hour. It is arguably
Bruckner’s finest. Here Wand manages to sustain most attractive
playing achieving near celestial heights. In the huge Finale
Wand demonstrates a heightened concentration throughout. He
delivers driving forward momentum with razor-sharp execution
producing thrilling climaxes.
The final volume 5 contains three works on CD 8. The eighty-three
year old Wand and the DSO made the recordings at a series of
live concerts in 1995 at the Berlin Philharmonie. First comes
Haydn’s Symphony No. 76 in E flat major, Hob. I:76 (1782). The
second is Mozart’s Serenata notturna, K 239 (1776)
and the third is Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition
(1874) in Ravel’s popular orchestration.
A score rather neglected today Haydn’s Symphony No. 76 in E
flat major was composed in 1782 in the isolation of the Hungarian
Court at Esterházy the estate where he served as Kapellmeister.
Wand is buoyant and cheerful in the opening Allegro
but doesn’t allow the Adagio to linger though still
creating a rather ruminative mood. Durable and rhythmic in the
Menuetto, Wand provides impressive shifts of tempi
and dynamic. The upbeat Finale is taken briskly with
considerable spirit and character.
Mozart was clearly fond of Cassations, Divertimenti
and Serenades, writing a large number of these light
and convivial forms designed for entertainment. In 1776 when
aged only twenty Mozart wrote his Serenata notturna,
K. 239 with the title appended to the score by his father Leopold
Mozart. For this performance Wand conducts a version suitable
for the concert hall with his concertino consisting
of two violins, a single viola and double bass together with
an expanded group of strings and kettle-drums. The attractive
Maestoso march feels fresh, buoyant and polished with
the central Menuetto splendidly played yet a touch
serious in mood. A strikingly cheerful Finale, Rondeau
is highly engaging and strong on personality with especially
glorious playing by the leader. Throughout I was struck by the
impressive unity and instrumental tone.
Mussorgsky in 1874 wrote his piano suite Pictures at an
Exhibition inspired by a posthumous exhibition in St. Petersburg
of paintings and drawings by his friend Victor Hartmann who
had died suddenly the previous year. After Mussorgsky’s death
the suite proved exceptionally popular in orchestral transcriptions
of which Maurice Ravel’s is the best known. This dazzling and
richly scored orchestral showpiece proved an excellent vehicle
the Berlin orchestra to display their talents. A poised Wand
shows his expertise in moulding the score’s myriad moods, varied
tempos and wide dynamics with exquisite musical colouring. The
troubadour’s mournful lament in The Old Castle is delightfully
played with exotic saxophone textures and colourful woodwind.
To prevent too much seriousness additional buoyancy and playfulness
were needed in the Tuileries tableau depicting the
famous visitor garden in Paris. My favourite Bydlo
(ox-cart) portraying a peasant wagon drawn by oxen passing by
into the distance is given a sturdy dark and almost sinister
interpretation conveying a sense of fatigue and world-weariness.
The memorable Ballet of chicks in their shells is justly
light, lively and playful, so convincing with extremely impressive
woodwind playing. The Great Gate of Kiev is a spectacular
statement and a magnificent and vivid depiction of the imposing
edifice. I loved the majestic effect of the great tolling bell.
The German radio sound engineers really knew what they were
doing with these live recordings. Having undergone a re-mastering
process the recordings are consistently clear, immediate and
well balanced. As these are live some minor audience noise is
detectable and enthusiastic applause can be heard at the end
of some of the works; not all. Where there is applause it is
included in the timings. Fans of Günter Wand will want to snap
up this beautifully recorded eight disc set from Profil Hänssler.
Others new to Wand will certainly not be disappointed such is
the consistent quality of the late, great maestro’s conducting.
Ludwig van BEETHOVEN (1770-1827)
Symphony No. 6, Pastoral Op. 68 (1808) [74:12]
(Run-through including rehearsal of first movement)
Symphony No. 5, Op. 57 (1804-08) [75:27]
(Run-through including rehearsal of first, second and fourth
Symphony No. 6, Pastoral Op. 68 (1808) [45:14]
Symphony No. 5, Op. 57 (1804-08) [34:43]
Igor STRAVINSKY (1882-1971)
The Firebird (1909/10, suite 1945 version) [27:45]
Pyotr Ilyich TCHAIKOVSKY
Symphony No.5 in E minor, Op. 64 (1888) [45:50]
Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART
Symphony No. 40 in G minor, K550 (1788) [25:42]
Pyotr Ilyich TCHAIKOVSKY
Symphony No. 6 in B minor Pathétique Op. 74 (1893)
Anton BRUCKNER (1824-1896)
Symphony No. 6 in A major (original version, 1879/81) [56:59]
Symphony No. 8 in C minor (original version, 1884/90 ed. Robert
Joseph HAYDN (1732-1809)
Symphony No. 76 in E flat major, Hob.I:76 (1782) [19:30]
Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART
Serenata notturna, K. 239 (1776) [12:46]
Modest MUSSORGSKY (1839-1881)
Pictures at an Exhibition (1874) [33:17]
26 September 1992 Schauspielhaus (renamed Konzerthaus) Berlin
Vol. 1, CD 1 (Beethoven Symphony No. 6 including rehearsal of
2 November 1992 Schauspielhaus (renamed Konzerthaus) Berlin
Vol. 1, CD 2 (Beethoven Symphony No. 5 including rehearsal of
movements 1, 2 and 4).
2 November 1992 Schauspielhaus (renamed Konzerthaus) Berlin
Vol. 1, CD 3 (Beethoven Symphony No. 6).
1-2 November 1994 Schauspielhaus (renamed Konzerthaus) Berlin
Vol. 1, CD 3 (Beethoven Symphony No. 6 and Symphony No. 5).
5-6 April 1987 Philharmonie, Berlin, Germany Vol. 2, CD 4 (Stravinsky
Firebird, Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 5).
18 September 1988 Philharmonie, Berlin, Germany Vol. 3, CD 5
(Mozart Symphony No. 40, Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 6).
30 April, 1st May 1994 Philharmonie, Berlin, Germany Vol. 4,
CD 6 (Bruckner Symphony No. 6).
14-16 May 1994 Philharmonie, Berlin, Germany Vol. 4, CD 6, 7
(Bruckner Symphony No. 8).
30 April, 1 May 1995 Philharmonie, Berlin, Germany Vol. 5, CD
8 (Haydn Symphony No. 76, Mozart Serenata notturna).
19 February 1995 Philharmonie, Berlin, Germany Vol. 5, CD 8 | <urn:uuid:05d5c684-7204-43b7-a270-872b617b5241> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | http://musicweb-international.com/classrev/2012/May12/Wand_DSO_PH10046.htm | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.894695 | 4,298 | 1.617188 | 2 |
President Donald Trump says states should “seriously consider” reopening their public schools before the end of the academic year. That's even though dozens already have said it would be unsafe for students to return until the summer or fall.
Only a few states have publicly considered earlier openings. Montana says school districts can resume classroom instruction on May 7.
Trump’s suggestion in a call Monday with governors drew criticism from some education officials, who say a quick return would bring major risk and little reward.
None of the governors on the call responded to the suggestion. | <urn:uuid:2ef455c6-eedc-4790-9cfe-aef4d1b7eb07> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.wtvr.com/news/national/coronavirus/trump-urges-governors-to-reopen-schools-before-summer-break | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.978148 | 116 | 1.523438 | 2 |
ed. note: Oleg Kagan is the Community Outreach Coordinator for Los Angeles County Public Libraries. He was an instrumental collaborator in developing and presenting Topanga Author’s Group events, including the TRANSPORT Topanga Literary Festival.
Joe Gutesha had been feeling disconnected from himself and the world after returning from a whirlwind two-months in New York, his first time there. The 22-year-old poet was working at a local gourmet food store and house-sitting, but his poetry had stalled. “I couldn’t focus,” Joe said in an interview, “I felt alone, but not in a good way.” And then, seemingly out of nowhere, he got a text from Kim Zanti, Director of Catalyst Muse, asking if he wanted to be part of a “process of creation” as an assistant and a collaborator. The opportunity could plug Joe back in; it was a chance to be part of something exciting with a person he respected.
This wasn’t the first time the two had worked together. Several years prior, Joe had been among the core group of community members who organized the Transport Topanga Literary Festival, a two-day event founded by Kim and held at the local library. Despite being the youngest of the collaborators, Joe felt gratified at having his ideas heard and validated by “…older, literary types.” That acceptance carried over to meetings of the Topanga Authors Group (TAG), where the young writer participated as an equal with accomplished authors and artists. Since Kim had been the facilitator of these opportunities, her request re-ignited Joe’s earlier feelings of empowerment.
Initially, for Kim, the purpose of hiring a studio assistant was to get help with the physical elements of repurposing a shed into an art studio — hanging art, shifting objects, light carpentry — while she engaged in the art-making. But as she explored the idea further, this changed. Inspiration came from the Creativity Lab devised by Bob Bates, Co-Founder and Artistic Director of Inner-City Arts, a safe, creative space for children in LA’s downtown. Kim coordinated several research projects there and was especially inspired by the Creativity Lab sessions, which were team taught by teachers with varied expertise. At the Lab, students come from many schools to invent and build, collaborating with each other and reflecting on their work. “Through experimentation, problem solving, persevering, and reworking, they are drawn more deeply into their own creativity,” explains the Inner-City Arts webpage. Thus, the role of studio assistant became intern, became co-creator. For Kim, Joe’s openness to ideas made him the obvious choice. “He was open to novel experiences,” she recalled, “During Transport Topanga, Joe never balked at an idea. He took ideas and made them his own.”
Catalyst Muse’s first private creativity lab was also an important landmark for Kim’s personal journey; throughout the decades of her professional experience as an arts administrator, she subsumed her own creative drive in support of others. Recent years saw her in a tornado of change, going from a long-term and steady job as the Associate Director of the Center for Research on Creativity (CRoC) to the coordinating force behind the organization following the death of its founder, creativity researcher James Catterall, to a student at SUNY Buffalo where she earned a Master’s Degree in Creativity Studies while simultaneously embracing entrepreneurship by starting her own company. Coming out of this maelstrom, Kim realized that it was necessary for the person whose life’s work had been to cultivate the creativity of others to align with her own inspiration. It was her time to be an artist.
Their first Thursday morning meeting was a hike to Topanga Canyon’s Eagle Rock, which had recently suffered a devastating brushfire. The path through charred vegetation felt like a metaphor for regeneration, new beginnings. The subsequent nine Thursdays found the pair working together, three hours at a time, to create art from found objects, discuss poetry and literary ideas, and engage in other activities both profound and mundane, in a process that successfully turned Kim’s unused out-building into a functioning studio (dubbed “The Sheddio”). Their time often began with a meeting over coffee and some bread, cheese, and fruit and ended with contemplative journaling. In between, they worked. Entering the studio, you might find them with their heads together combining a baseball catcher’s mask with a backgammon board and a heart-shaped rock in a mixed media piece that comments on, according to Joe, “how we guard our hearts.” Just as likely, you would find them working at opposite ends of the room in silence, alone together. “You share a process,” Kim commented, “and if it’s a good process. You let the process do the work.”
Both participants soon found that their time together went far beyond the tasks at hand. Conversations, which were wide-ranging and free of pretense, cultivated a nurturing atmosphere allowing each to develop into themselves without fear. For Joe, it was the mentorship of an experienced person that finally allowed him to feel that a future as a poet and artist was possible. After his overwhelming New York sojourn followed by the solitude of an unfamiliar house “…working with Kim was the perfect volume.”
For Kim, it was self-trust kindled by unconditional acceptance that gave her the confidence to finish long-awaited pieces. Indeed, Kim said, “working with Joe allowed me to observe him and myself co-creating a process that gave me new energy and ideas. I felt how fluid the line is between teaching, learning, facilitating, and simply being curious and creative in a studio.”
Beyond tangible outcomes, it was clear that there was something special at play in Kim and Joe’s work together during the summer of 2021. Surely, their shared history played a part in their mutual chemistry, as well as a common need for a safe creative environment. And just the same, it is impossible to ignore the deliberate actions that fostered their work: Clear objectives, a structured schedule, and consistent reflection all aided in building a scaffolding for creativity to flourish. And flourish it did.
When asked what he left the experience with, Joe responded, “A more self-assured spirit…I had previously struggled daily with what to do, but ended the internship feeling vibrant and alive,” he paused and added: “By the end of it, I felt bigger.” | <urn:uuid:0e244839-bd2f-415d-82b6-853ff2b1de65> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://catalystmuse.com/a-lab-for-the-spirit-by-oleg-kagan/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.980186 | 1,394 | 1.617188 | 2 |
Circular economy examples: Learn the brands that are leading the way to a more sustainable future, and how they're doing it.
The commerce landscape is always evolving, as businesses adapt to changes in consumer needs (and wants) and other forces like changes in legislation impacting their industry. As we know from experience, some of these changes are short term, whereas some become more embedded in our new norm. Green commerce falls into the latter category.
Past generations generally followed a principle of only buying what was needed. Generations of “make do and mend” helped increase the longevity of items. But several factors, including growing product availability, influencers, and advertisers promoting new trends fueled consumer demand for the latest “must have” item.
However, this behavior is changing as consumers become aware of its long-term, environmental and socio-economic impacts. Today, conscious consumers are driving growth of rental and recommerce models.
Staggering stats reveal ugly impactResearch into the environmental impact of fast fashion and our throw-away culture is shocking.
- In 2019, research showed that approximately one garbage truck of clothing was burned or landfilled every second, (approximately 2,625kg of clothing). In one year, that would be enough to fill Sydney Harbour.
- Another stunning report indicates that in the UK alone, the average consumer will accumulate a value of £32,000 (approximately $37,745) of unworn clothing during their lifetime.
- The environmental impact isn’t limited to apparel. It can be seen across all industries. For example, reports indicate that each year, Europeans produce on average more than 16 kg of electrical waste per person from broken household appliances.
There’s a plethora of information available at the click of a button for us, as consumers, to become more and more aware of these issues and their impact.
A recent survey found that a growing proportion of consumers want to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle. Some have stopped buying some products due to ethical or sustainability concerns.
Generation Z is leading the green commerce charge by reducing how much they buy and reflecting on what they consume.
Gen Z consumers are beginning to flex their economic muscles, bringing different perspectives and expectations than previous generations. Brands need to adapt.
Green commerce: Conscious consumers drive change
As consumer awareness continues to grow, so are their expectations for brand transparency around sustainability. Consumers are increasingly researching the sustainability commitments of organizations, with particular interest in how they’re reducing packaging, sourcing their materials, and managing their manufacturing.
Consumers are looking to reduce their environmental impact and want green commerce options to help them purchase less, for example through rental, recycling, and repair services.
It’s not only consumer behaviors that are helping to bring about this change – changes in legislation are also a factor. For example, the “Right to Repair” policy, which came into effect in Europe in 2021 requires that electronic goods sold to consumers, such as hairdryers and televisions, be repairable for 10 years.
So it’s no surprise that the term circular economy is becoming more prevalent in the everyday world of commerce, as momentum moves towards more sustainable models emerge alongside, or replace traditional, linear models.
Fashion is a $2.5 trillion industry, producing 10% of global carbon emissions, 20% of global wastewater, and vast biodiversity loss. Consumers are demanding change, forcing sustainability in fashion as a requirement, not a trend.
Closing the loop: Reuse, rent, resell
While neither are new concepts, recommerce and rental commerce are gaining traction as more industries introduce these green commerce models alongside their traditional approaches.
At a high level, rental commerce provides consumers with access to goods, without full ownership. They enjoy a variety of new products, but support sustainability by recycling the items back into the market for others to enjoy. Recommerce gives consumers the option to buy pre-owned products, extending their use and keeping them out of the landfill.
There are many rental and re-commerce services appearing on the e-commerce scene, from seasonal “pop-up” shops selling pre-owned items, to one-off rentals and rental subscriptions allowing consumers to select several items at predetermined intervals. New apps help consumers rent items between themselves, often promoted via their social media profiles.
Green commerce business benefits & logistics
In addition to all the environmental benefits, rental and recommerce provide, both also can help brands expand into a new revenue channel. Green commerce models like these can help retailers boost customer engagement and expand their customer base by building a sense of community in how items are consumed.Of course, it’s not simply about deciding what products to offer consumers for rental and re-commerce options that organizations need to consider. Other considerations include:
- Managing inventory and logistics; for example, having items available when a consumer wishes to rent them
- Ensuring that items are returned on time and not damaged
- Making sure that item are authentic and in a good resell condition
However, much like there are various ways rentals can be offered as a service to consumers, there are also a range of technology platforms to help coordinate and manage the logistics, behind the scenes.
One way organizations can get started in the rental and recommerce business is by offering a small selection of items across the product range or running a seasonal recommerce pop-up-shop.
Rental and recommerce both require a change in how we think about material goods. But with data showing that eco-conscious commerce will only grow, businesses would do well to begin adapting today if they haven’t already.
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Register today HERE! | <urn:uuid:8890a4db-6772-4844-844e-07e39b57cf61> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.the-future-of-commerce.com/2022/07/25/green-commerce-models/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.949138 | 1,213 | 2.609375 | 3 |
What Is Digital Literacy?
To be digitally literate means you have the capabilities that fit you for living, learning, working, participating, and thriving in a digital society. This implies that you are well equipped to function maximally in a digital age and your flexibility to adapt to digital changes in the healthcare system. The first thing you must do as a nurse you need to have digital Skills and how to become a digital Nurse
The world has evolved with advancements in technology and this has shifted the healthcare work pattern including nursing and caregiving, therefore, to thrive in a digital society as a Nurse you need to have digital skills.
These recent advancements are being integrated into health care delivery for quality and efficient patient care and to achieve better patient outcomes as research revealed that the more a hospital embraces digital technologies the better off its patients will be.
Below is a list of the digital skills you need to have as a Nurse;
The use of computers in clinical settings to carry out tasks like creating spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint presentations, Skype for meetings or online interviews, and so on.
Use of Electronic Health Records
Use of software for electronic medical records to input patient data instead of charts such as prescriptions, diagnostic test results, etc.
This helps to get notified promptly if anything needs urgent medical attention, for example, getting notified of early warning signs of a patient that needs urgent medical attention.
It also enhances easy monitoring and communication among team members in charge of patient care.
Digital health/medicine for example telemedicine
Video chat and internet-based consultation for patients that can not visit the hospital due to location barriers or some other factors ensure rapid response to reduce the mortality rate arising from delayed access to healthcare.
Use of monitor devices such as cardiac monitor, which is attached to patients to monitor the baseline vitals and easily spot any deviation from normal.
Portable defibrillator, to assist with CPR instead of the manual method, which reduces the incident of associated death due to factors like delays, unnecessary interruptions, and fatigue of provider due to exertion.
Smart alarms control all the alarms of other monitoring devices thereby reducing alarm fatigue that may occur from multiple alarm sources.
The list is inexhaustible.
Use of automated drug dispensing machine.
To reduce life-threatening situations, certain innovations are being put in place aside from the conventional method of drug administration such as the use of barcoding for verification of medications and automated dispensing machines, these computerized devices control the dosage of medications.
Another example is an infusion delivery device that makes it easier to administer drugs slowly and over a given period.
E-rosters and E-job planning
Use of software or computer application in creating duty rosters and duty delegation to reduce the time spent on paperwork to make duty roster and delegate tasks which increases the spent with patients.
Patient Lifting Device
The use of patient lifting devices makes it easy for Nurses to lift and transfer the patients without strain and exertion to themselves and injury such as falls to the patients.
Use of social media
Use social media to stay informed and get updated on the latest events and trends in the profession, healthcare, to drive change, for patient education, public awareness, or be aware of the skills you need to learn.
Blogs, podcasts, LinkedIn, Twitter can be useful platforms professionals can utilize to connect with other professionals to achieve this.
WHY YOU NEED DIGITAL SKILLS AS A NURSE.
Most professionals have not yet embraced the recent adjustment happening within the healthcare system, some still believe it is the future of healthcare, whereas, digital transformation within the healthcare setting is no longer the thing of the future, it is already here and it is now, hence the need for you to be aware and equip yourself.
These innovations play a vital role in preventing patient harm, injury, and complications. It improves the quality of care being delivered to the patients and facilitates better patient outcomes through efficient patient monitoring, reduction in error in care delivery, and so on.
For example, AI (artificial intelligence) makes it easy to explore different scenarios as if it’s real which teaches rapid response to manage this case scenario appropriately, e.g. you can explore congenital heart defects in 3D, dampening pain signals for patients suffering from burns or chronic conditions
Professional development is another great way the recent changes have positively impacted the healthcare setting as this improves your capacity to function effectively in the clinical setting, you become marketable with this skillset.
When you are unfamiliar and out of touch with the new trend in your workplace, you might lose confidence and become frustrated, this again pours into the delivery of your responsibilities thereby affecting your work efficiency, hence the need to embrace the change so as not to get displaced out of the workforce just because you can not keep up with the change.
For Nursing and Patient Education
Involvement in education and training of professionals for distance learning, digital literacy, simulations, real-life case scenario with Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, Patient education is made possible due to this
This has also changed the way nurses learn so that they can be up to date with the latest information and happenings in their field.
Real-time communication within the healthcare setting and among professionals has been made possible by recent innovation thereby saving time.
You also become happy to come to work when you can seamlessly carry out your tasks, you are not drained easily and this again improves your work efficiency.
HOW TO BECOME A LITERATURE NURSE
Be in an environment that promotes the culture of change in educating and training their workers adaptivity to the digital society within the healthcare ecosystem.
Enroll for courses: theree are different online courses made available and tailored to equip healthcare professionals with the needed and necessary skills to meet up the demand of the new face of healthcare technology.
Social media platforms can be a useful tool to keep in touch with the recent trends and related events on digital literacy and innovation in healthcare.
Be part of a professional network or community that share information on recent update and advancement in Nursing care and health care so as not to be left out.
Change is constant, the health care ecosystem is not static, it has evolved over the centuries and will continue to evolve, as an individual, you have also evolved as you are not the same person you are in the past ten years, hence you should see this as a norm and be flexible to adapt to all that comes with it. Your willingness to learn and adapt to different situations is a good sign of being a person with a sense of balance, a skill essential to thrive in the workplace.
FFor More Articles Visit 9janurses | <urn:uuid:ea99509a-8319-4d2c-a8ea-52b960e753af> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://9janurses.com/digital-skills-you-need-as-a-nurse/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.929932 | 1,396 | 3.234375 | 3 |
Opportunities fired by natural gas could make Tanzania an attractive prospect for business – but what are the key considerations for working there?
Tanzania has lots of energy. While a stable government, substantial mineral resources, tourism and agriculture have all played a part in making Tanzania one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies, with current annual GDP growth in the region of 7%, it is the energy sector that is expected to grab the headlines.
Newly discovered natural gas reserves off the southern coast of Tanzania (with further reserves in the west) are set to make the country a major natural gas producer. With exploration still in its early stages, confirmed gas reserves already stand at upwards of 20 trillion ft3. Plans are afoot to develop facilities for the liquefaction and export of liquefied natural gas, and financing has been agreed for a 532km gas pipeline. Natural gas is therefore acting as a stimulus to Tanzania’s construction and engineering industry even before the revenues from exports, and the expected benefits of improved power supplies, start to make themselves felt.
None of this has been lost on international investors, with many major international energy and engineering companies already active in Tanzania. What, therefore, are the key considerations for those looking to do business in East Africa’s most populous country?
The United Republic of Tanzania includes both the Tanzanian mainland and the semi-autonomous Zanzibar archipelago. Investment on the mainland is governed by the Tanzanian Investment Act No. 26 of 1997. For foreign investors making a capital investment of US$300,000 or more, the Tanzania Investment Centre can assist with obtaining the permits, authorisations and documentation required to set up and operate in Tanzania.
Investment in Zanzibar is governed by the Investment Promotion Act of 1986, with the Zanzibar Investment Promotion Agency undertaking a similar role to the Tanzania Investment Centre.
Permits, licences and tax
To conduct business in Tanzania, a foreign company must first register with the Business Registration and Licensing Agency. The Contractor’s Registration Act 1997 sets out further requirements as to the registration (with the Contractor’s Registration Board) of contractors and construction projects. The registration process can be bureaucratic and potentially lengthy.
All companies must register with the Commissioner of Domestic Revenue and receive a taxpayer identification number, to be used in all tax and business activities. The tax regime features incentives aimed at promoting national economic development, such as relief from VAT and import duties in respect of plant and machinery for certain infrastructure and utilities projects.
Business in Tanzania tends to be built around strong personal relationships and trust, making one-to-one meetings between senior decision-makers a key priority.
As with many emerging markets, corruption can be an issue, as highlighted in May 2012 when corruption allegations triggered a reshuffle in which a number of senior government ministers lost their jobs. Tanzania ranked 100th out of 182 in the 2011 Corruption Perceptions Index by Transparency International.
All public procurement is by tender, governed by the Public Procurement Act 2004 and the 2005 procurement regulations. Those contracting with government departments and state-owned enterprises must pay careful attention to the terms and conditions for tendering because even minor non-compliance may invalidate the tender.
A new procurement act, the Public Procurement Act 2011, has been approved by parliament and is expected to come into force shortly. Building on the provisions of the 2004 Act, the new act includes measures to enhance transparency further and is expected to provide, for the first time, for e-procurement, with the aim of simplifying and speeding up the tendering process.
Tanzania’s legal system has at times been viewed as slow-moving and difficult to predict. However, recent strategies, spearheaded by the judiciary, have seen the Commercial Court streamlined, yielding a substantial reduction in the average time taken for business disputes to be heard.
Arbitration in Tanzania is governed by the Arbitration Act (Chapter 15), which was introduced in 1971 and so pre-dates the UNCITRAL Model Law. The National Construction Council publishes a set of arbitration rules (last revised in 2001) which are commonly used in relation to domestic construction contracts. Tanzania has been party to the New York Convention since 1965 and acceded to the ICSID Convention in 1992.
Tanzania therefore holds many promising opportunities for investors in the construction and engineering sector with an appreciation of what is involved in doing business there. If, as expected, natural gas fires the Tanzanian economy to even greater rates of growth, the opportunities will only increase in the coming years.
Kwadwo Sarkodie is a partner in the Construction & Engineering Group at Mayer Brown International LLP
Pendo Marsha Shamte is an associate at CRB Africa Legal, Tanzania | <urn:uuid:eae0714b-96ff-462d-b8a9-82544827e952> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.building.co.uk/comment/tanzania-birth-of-a-gas-giant/5046178.article | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.950245 | 996 | 1.710938 | 2 |
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Hear from leaders around the globe as they share insights about their experiences and lessons learned throughout their certification journey.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) broke new ground last week when it authorized the world’s first human clinical trial for an in vivo genome editing application.
The investigational new drug (IND) application approval for California-based Sangamo, which is the first and only company to put a gene editing therapy into clinical trials, allows the company to begin conducting in 2016 a Phase 1/2 open-label, dose-escalation study in up to nine male adults with severe hemophilia B. The study will examine the gene therapy’s safety, tolerability and potential efficacy.
Edward Lanphier, Sangamo's president and chief executive officer, told Focus on Tuesday that the company “fully expects” the trial to be up and running, with patients receiving the single-treatment therapy SB-FIX in 2016, though he said it was too early to tell if that trial would be enough to submit the treatment for FDA approval.
“We really ought to treat a couple patients before we talk about approval,” he said.
Based on Sangamo’s first clinical application of its proprietary In Vivo Protein Replacement Platform (IVPRP), the trial will involve the insertion of a copy of the human FIX (hFIX) gene into a specific location within the albumin gene of liver cells.
According to some of the efficacy and specificity data used for the IND approval and unveiled Monday at the American Society of Hematology (ASH) meeting, the studies show how Sangamo’s technology can use zinc finger nuclease (ZFN)-mediated genome editing to insert the hFIX gene into the genome, which enables it to be expressed for the lifetime of the cells and their progeny.
And due to the high expression rates from the promoter, only a small percentage of the liver cells need to be edited in order for the modified cells to produce stable, therapeutic levels of hFIX protein, Sangamo says.
The company also reported this week that its clinical protocol for SB-318, its first IVPRP lysosomal storage disorder (LSD) program, for the treatment of Mucopolysaccharidosis I (MPS I/Hurler Syndrome), recently received unanimous approval from the NIH's Recombinant DNA Advisory Committee (RAC).
“We expect to file the IND application for SB-318 with the FDA by the end of 2015," Lanphier said. Tthe companyalso expects to file an IND application for MPS II (Hunter syndrome) in the first half of 2016 and three more INDs in the second half of 2016 for hemophilia A, Gaucher disease, and one other LSD target.
Because Sangamo has run ex vivo genome editing clinical trials for the past five years, the company has been at the forefront of industry discussions with FDA on gene therapies. FDA has yet to approve a gene therapy, though the European Medicines Agency approved the gene therapy Glybera back in 2012 to treat a rare condition called lipoprotein lipase deficiency.
“FDA has been a very engaged, constructive, very thoughtful and curious group in which we’ve engaged on this process for years,” Lanphier said.
He also spoke at length on Sangamo's discussions with FDA and NIH at the Piper Jaffray Healthcare Conference last week on how these studies will progress in the absence of significant adverse events, which have cropped up over the years for gene therapies.
More broadly, Lanphier said last week, the company's goal is to develop a safety profile across an adult population to allow it to move into a pediatric population where there's the "greatest amount of patient benefit" if we can establish circulating levels of these proteins -- "the value for some of these communities is enormous."
Products using gene-editing technologies, like Sangamo’s, are regulated by the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER), which has published a number of guidance documents addressing gene therapy (though no specific guidance on the use of genome-editing technologies) including:
FDA spokeswoman Sarah Peddicord told Focus that most of the current products involving genetic editing technology “are mostly in the research stage of development. Generally speaking, the FDA does not regulate biological products that are intended for use in laboratory research only.”
And unlike with some other emerging development programs, such as biosimilars, Sangamo is not waiting on FDA to issue any additional guidance to progress its clinical programs.
“There is additional work going on with standards and things like that that will be helpful. But no one is delayed by waiting for whatever is in the discussions,” Lanphier added.
As far as interactions with other regulators worldwide on gene therapies, Lanphier told Focus, without giving away any proprietary information, that “largely speaking, FDA is as up to speed, if not more so than other agencies around the world, in terms of the gamut of their issues – from manufacturing, to toxicology, to CMC [chemistry, manufacturing and controls], to clinical trial approaches.”
Lanphier also weighed in on last week’s international gene editing summit in Washington, DC, noting that there was unequivocal, “table-pounding support” for genome editing in somatic cells, which are cells that are not transmitted to the next generation. He also mentioned, as explained in the summit’s statement, that there was caution expressed around the idea of making genetic alterations to gametes or embryos, which will be carried by all of the cells of a resulting child and will be passed on to subsequent generations.
But as far as parsing the different genome editing modalities, Lanphier noted that speakers did not get into too much detail, though they did point out how CRISPR/Cas9 editing is ubiquitously available now, though “less than perfect,” whereas the data around ZFN-editing technology, with which Sangamo owns and licenses the intellectual property for to companies like Sigma Aldrich and Biogen, are so far“unambiguous.”
Tags: gene therapies, Sangamo, clinical trials for gene therapies, in vivo genome editing | <urn:uuid:d23608cd-d943-4ddf-9c2b-44effe6c3681> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.raps.org/regulatory-focus%e2%84%a2/news-articles/2015/12/fda-authorizes-first-human-study-to-use-in-vivo-genome-editing-application | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572089.53/warc/CC-MAIN-20220814234405-20220815024405-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.940606 | 1,412 | 1.632813 | 2 |
New coalition of industry and academia to commercialise solution for full recyclability of wind turbine blades
A new partnership between Skrydstrup Group (iNANO & Dept. of Chemistry, Aarhus University), Vestas, Olin, and the Danish Technological Institute collides industry and research to support circularity of wind turbine blades. The CETEC project paves the way for manufacturing new blades using materials from old turbine blades, thereby creating fully recyclable wind turbines.
A coalition of industry and academic leaders have developed a novel technology to enable circularity for thermoset composites, the material used to make wind turbine blades. The new technology delivers the final technological step on the journey towards a fully recyclable wind turbine value chain. To enable the adoption of this new technology, and to advance a circular economy across the wind industry, a new initiative entitled CETEC (Circular Economy for Thermosets Epoxy Composites) has been established. Within three years, CETEC is aiming to present a fully scoped solution ready for industrial adoption, based on commercialisation of the novel circularity technology.
Partly funded by Innovation Fund Denmark (IFD), CETEC is spearheaded by Vestas, the global leader in sustainable energy solutions, and involves both industrial and academic leaders including Olin, the world leading producer of Epoxy, the Danish Technological Institute (DTI), and Aarhus University.
Developed by DreamWind, an innovation initiative driven by the same partners, the new technology consists of a two-step process. Firstly, thermoset composites are disassembled into fibre and epoxy. Secondly, through a novel chemcycling process, the epoxy is further broken up into base components similar to virgin materials. These materials can then be reintroduced into the manufacturing of new turbine blades, constituting a new circularity pathway for epoxy resin.
Wind turbines are 85-90 percent recyclable, with turbine blade material currently constituting the remaining percentage that cannot be recycled, due to the nature of thermoset composites. CETEC is aiming to close this recycling gap and enable a significant step forward in the elimination of waste across the wind energy industry.
“As global commitments to a net-zero future increase, it’s absolutely crucial to ensure the wind industry can scale sustainably, which includes Vestas fulfilling our ambition to produce zero-waste turbines by 2040. Leveraging this new technological breakthrough in chemcycling epoxy resin, the CETEC project will be a significant milestone in Vestas’ journey towards achieving this goal, and in enabling a future where landfill is no longer required in blade decommissioning,” said Allan Korsgaard Poulsen, Head of Sustainability and Advanced Materials, Vestas Innovation and Concepts.
“The key characteristic of composite materials is their unique combination of low weight and high strength. This is governed by the strong bonding of two different materials – fibre and epoxy. The dilemma is that this strong bond is also the feature that renders these materials difficult to recycle. Therefore, the development of CETEC’s novel technology, enabling disassembly of the composite at end-of-life, is a gamechanger, that will allow us to capture the value represented by each material stream in a new circular value chain”, said Simon Frølich, Team Manager, PhD, Danish Technological Institute.
"Chemcycling of epoxy-based materials would allow deconstructing these highly stable polymer chains into molecular building blocks. These building blocks are easily processable and can be utilised to produce new epoxy, which will have the same quality as the original material. Avoiding the loss of valuable molecular complexity in such a way is a highly desirable concept and an important step to sustainable materials," said Prof. Dr. Troels Skrydstrup, Aarhus University.
CETEC’s solution holds significant potential for commercial value capture, particularly in markets where regulation around waste management for manufacturing industries is tightening to serve a broader sustainability agenda. When fully developed, the solution may also have an impact for other industries that rely on thermoset composite in production, such as automotive and aviation.
“As the leading Epoxy producer and global supplier for the wind industry, Olin is proud to provide our technological expertise to this important sustainability project,” said Leif Ole Meyer, TS&D Leader EMEAI at Olin. “To develop technologies which close an existing gap of thermosets by creating a circularity is yet another example of putting our Resource Efficiency sustainability goal into action. This innovation will help the industry to minimize consumption of virgin material sources and increase the reuse and recycling of materials.” | <urn:uuid:b159b8ac-f4ce-429d-9dd0-fa746dbca850> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://inano.medarbejdere.au.dk/news-and-events/news/show/artikel/new-coalition-of-industry-and-academia-to-commercialise-solution-for-full-recyclability-of-wind-turb | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.898718 | 973 | 2.375 | 2 |
Daniel Barker: By Power or Blight by Jenny Woolsey
Daniel Barker: By Power or Blight is a children's fiction book for children aged 10-13. The story is about a boy who receives a magical book from Egypt. It…
Originally written by Hilary Langford and expanded by me! - www.hilary.com.au Hilary Langford is a very talented organizational consultant and she originally wrote these commandments many years ago, but they are just as relevant today as they were then. Thanks Hilary for your creativity! I expanded them today! 1. | <urn:uuid:a0dc4da5-96cd-4aeb-81ef-34aaffb16d18> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.pinterest.com.au/Jenny_Woolsey/daniel-barker-by-power-or-blight-by-jenny-woolsey/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572089.53/warc/CC-MAIN-20220814234405-20220815024405-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.975438 | 133 | 1.539063 | 2 |
Businesses are increasingly prioritizing a concept called “cyber resilience.” It refers to the ability to reduce and overcome cyber threats, which have been on the rise the past decade. COVID-19 has given hackers another avenue to exploit businesses by targeting weak passwords and technical vulnerabilities. As such, businesses must be cyber resilient in the COVID-19 period.
How Hackers Breach Data Security?
A hacker uses variations on a handful of techniques to penetrate business networks and steal confidential information. Some hackers are out to damage companies, while others are just trying to seize data they can sell to other criminals. Those that seek destruction often distribute malware, which can then lock up computers and damage data. Many hackers have used the COVID-19 world as a theme for tricking victims into clicking a link that unleashes malware.
Every large and small business should be aware of the common schemes and tactics used by hackers. Phishing is one of their most common scams in which they pretend to be someone else, such as a trusted friend or popular brand. Once they establish an online friendship, the hacker can then plan a series of hidden attacks. It’s an easy attack method for hackers since workers are usually not trained to detect and report suspicious emails.
The fact that security breaches have surged by 67 percent since 2014 should be enough evidence that hackers aren’t giving up. The more sophisticated cybersecurity gets, the more hackers try to catch up with the technology. Many times, they rely on hacking software that tests millions of passwords. Phishing is a more frequent scheme because it can lead to stealing money and information faster.
Cybercriminals are exploiting the pandemic by going after companies with new digital infrastructure designed to allow remote work. All it takes is for one employee to open an infected email to create disruption and potential downtime. Registration of domain names related to COVID-19 has skyrocketed in 2020, but many can be attributed to scams.
How Can Companies Fight Against Hackers?
Companies need strong cybersecurity policies to protect themselves from hacking. Businesses need to train employees to avoid visiting unknown websites, especially those with nothing to do with their assigned work activity. Employees should beware of email and web addresses that resemble famous entities. Hackers commonly impersonate famous brands by using a domain that is one character off or includes a dash.
Fighting ransomware attacks involves watching out for emails making odd and urgent requests. Ransomware is a scheme in which a victim clicks a malicious link, and it locks up their computer with a hacker’s warning message to make a ransom payment or risk losing access to data. The payment usually must be cryptocurrency. The best protection against this type of attack is to regularly back up all critical files in a secure and separate location.
Multifactor authentication has become a common solution to help keep hackers locked out of accounts where they don’t belong. This strategy involves adding a second step to logging into an account after entering the password. It might include a security question in which only the account holder knows the answer or utilizes an email account or mobile phone to send a code to help verify identity.
Ultimately, businesses must be on the lookout for deceptive emails inviting clicks and treat them as unwanted spam. The key is to be aware of the cyber risks involved and use risk management tactics such as training staff, updating software,
With the constant threat of cyberattacks, finding the right insurance for your business, regardless of its size, is critical to entrepreneurial success. Let us help you find the right business insurance solutions that meet your needs and budget. Talk to the team at Kneller Agency today to get started. We can help you find affordable coverage for your start-up business.
Comments are closed. | <urn:uuid:a476df7d-498c-415f-b665-a917581d6696> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.knellerins.com/blog/cyber-resilient-business-in-a-covid-19-world/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572089.53/warc/CC-MAIN-20220814234405-20220815024405-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.947913 | 760 | 3.0625 | 3 |
A successful man said to a young woman I know, “Men have responsibilities; women have choices.” Yes, this happened in 2017. She was stunned. I wasn’t. That bias remains, despite the number of studies done across disciplines disproving the premise that men work as breadwinners, women for something less noble.
It’s time to change the story.
It’s way past time to make gender parity the norm, not mere aspiration. That’s why filmmaker Tiffany Shlain has organized 50/50 Day, a day-long international push on May 10 to change the conversation about gender equality. With her documentary “50/50” she asks: Why are there still so few women leaders? She even shows in one shot towering stack of notebooks denoting the more than 300 studies that show how everyone’s lives improve when men and women have equal opportunities. Over 10,000 screenings of the film are set to happen May 10 in offices, libraries, schools, local businesses and other gathering places. My organization Take The Lead is a proud partner.
Just as Galileo had a tough time convincing folks the world wasn’t flat and Earth wasn’t at the center of the universe, studies by a small army of scholars have yet to dislodge a worldview about the lesser value of women’s work. Culture runs deep, and it’s hard to change while you’re living in it. People in power don’t relinquish it willingly.
The diminution of women happens all the time — from a woman being offered “a mommy track” she never asked for, an unnamed leader refusing to shake a woman leader’s hand or outright sexual harassment. Let’s not fool ourselves — all of those moves are power plays meant to keep women off-balance, undermined and “in their place,” psychically and metaphorically.
Time to create another way. Let’s start by refuting once and for all old myths about why women do or do not work. There’s the study, “Rethink What You ‘Know’ About High-Achieving Women,” which looks at three generations of men and women graduating from Harvard Business School. Students of both genders start with the same ambitions and beliefs about the importance of career success. Do women drop out of their jobs en masse when it comes time to start families? Turns out only 11% do. Women leave their jobs after they give birth for other jobs that value their abilities over their circumstances of parenthood.
There are so many articles and books exploring why parity has been so elusive, from Anne-Marie Slaughter’s piece in The Atlantic, “Why Women Still Can’t Have it All” (my all-time least favorite title) to Jocelyn Frye’s just released “Defining Power and Why It Matters: Securing Women’s Equality and Women’s Futures.” They reveal compelling, maddening sides of this issue. Frye observes, “Unfortunately, one key problem that needs fixing is an old story encompassing obstacles that limit women’s autonomy and ability to control their futures. These obstacles are embedded in our laws, institutions and even our culture — obstacles visible and invisible but no less pernicious or impactful.” Case in point: In the latest giant step backward, last week’s vote by the House on health care threatens to put many family-oriented health care expenses back on the backs of women.
I am haunted by the scene in the new television adaptation of Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale when women are shut out of their bank accounts and fired. They leave, small boxes of family photos in tow, bewildered and scared. This is the cautionary tale of what it looks like when you have no agency, no voice and no place at the table where decisions are made. We — both men and women — can turn the page to a new narrative by challenging the stories we’ve been told about why women still face obstacles in the workplace. After all, we’re dazzled by our modernity. It’s time to match our forward-looking technology with a 21st-century view of leadership and gender.
I’ve been working for a long time on the front lines for women, and now I’m teaching women to lead. I’ve heard so many stories from women who have inspired me. Carey Lohrenz is one example. She was an aspiring fighter pilot when she was told that she only had two choices: She could leave the service or take a lower position. She had the presence of mind not to answer right away; she came back and demanded a third choice that would lead her to the training she wanted. As a result, she became the first female F-14 Tomcat Fighter Pilot in the U.S. Navy.
Women don’t need to mimic men. We must value ourselves properly and embrace our power to define our own terms and intentions and to assert our brands personally and professionally, so others do, too. When women become aligned with their own goals, when they see a problem and create a solution, their intentions transform them — and the organizations they lead.
The purpose of 50/50 Day is to awaken those who have forgotten their history. May it remind us that women are more than capable and have paid our dues multiple times over.
Gloria Feldt is the co-founder and president of Take The Lead and a bestselling author of four books. She is also the former president of Planned Parenthood Federation of America.
MOTTO hosts provocative voices and influencers from various spheres. We welcome outside contributions. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of our editors.
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- Want to Do More Good? This Movement Might Have the Answer | <urn:uuid:35979fb9-19b1-41e6-92d7-94a98289a59a> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://time.com/4772909/50-50-day-calls-for-gender-equality/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.950791 | 1,353 | 2.328125 | 2 |
Michael Landon created the historical drama Little House on the Prairie. Inspired by the books by Laura Ingalls Wilder, the series focused on the real-life Ingalls family living in the late 1800s. Landon portrayed patriarch Charles Ingalls, and brought on Melissa Sue Anderson and Melissa Gilbert to play his daughters, Mary and Laura.
While ratings were solid after the show premiered in 1974, numbers began to dwindle in the early 80s when new material became more scarce. Anderson felt Landon was “jumping the shark” towards the end of the series.
Michael Landon added more kids to the cast
Though Little House on the Prairie had been considered a top family drama, the show began running short on storylines with each passing year. By 1981, Landon employed the same tactics of many other programs when they’re tapped out.
“When popular television series begin to run out of steam and past their prime, especially after many years,” Anderson explained in her 2010 memoir, The Way I See It: A Look Back at My Life on Little House, “they often resort to some common, albeit cheap, tricks to try and squeeze out another couple of years. Mike [Landon] was not above this kind of thing.”
Landon decided to recruit more young actors to recreate some of the show’s most successful storylines.
“He brought in two new young kids to live with the Ingalls: Jason Bateman as James, and Missy Frances as Cassandra, a pseudo-Laura character – braids and all.”
‘Little House’ recruited another Nellie
Alison Arngrim played the neighborhood brat Nellie Oleson from the beginning of the series. The character brought some amusing plots to the show, which started to diminish as Nellie got older. Again, Landon chose to replicate the past and cast 12-year-old Allison Balson in 1981 imitate the Nellie persona. Landon even had Balson’s hair and temperament mimic her predecessor, and named the character Nancy.
“‘The Reincarnation of Nellie’, Parts 1 and 2, were written and directed by Mike,” Anderson recalled of the introductory episodes for Balson. “Definitely not his best work, as you can probably tell from the title.”
The plot followed Nels and Harriet Oleson deciding to adopt the misbehaving Nancy due to Harriet’s loneliness for her grown daughter. The production staff was clearly hoping to recreate some of the former magic brought by Arngrim, with Balson as the new “Nellie”.
“So now our writers can rehash old Nellie plotlines for Nancy,” Anderson remarked. “And Walnut Grove will have a spoiled little rich girl once again.”
Melissa Sue Anderson said goodbye to Walnut Grove
Between her decreasing screen time and what she considered to be over-dramatic storylines, Anderson knew in 1981 it was time to move on from Little House. She also saw the well-worn ploys for ratings as another sign to pursue other opportunities.
“As I witnessed some of this desperation, I was even more sure of my decision to leave,” Anderson wrote. “I would be going out on a high note rather than letting the ratings dwindle and have the show cancelled by the network – which was ultimately what happened during the following year.”
The Little House alum remembered her final episode, as well as the minimal dialogue she spoke in her last show on the series.
“‘A Christmas They Never Forgot,’ I forgot – literally,” Anderson said of the December 1981 episode. “And it’s no wonder because I had exactly six lines … I would have hoped for a much better send off than this. Oh well.”
Little House on the Prairie aired its last episode in March 1983. | <urn:uuid:bb85bd29-a5d9-46d7-bb3e-d851d82c311c> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.cheatsheet.com/entertainment/little-house-on-the-prairie-melissa-sue-anderson-said-michael-landon-was-not-above-certain-ways-to-keep-ratings-up.html/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.974515 | 834 | 2.03125 | 2 |
At home north of the 70th parallel
A brave traveler
Until the early 1970s red-breasted geese spent the winters on the shores of the Caspian Sea. Due to a shift in the agricultural policies there winter wheat was replaced by cotton; the red-breasted geese had to move their wintering grounds and at present the entire global population spends the winter on the northern and north-western coasts of the Black Sea. To reach their wintering grounds the birds fly for over 6000 km along the valley of Ob River and by the Ural Mountains, passing through Northern Kazakhstan and Southern Russia.
Enough fields, lakes and peace for the beautiful geese
In their main wintering grounds on the territories of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine red-breasted geese forage in agricultural fields sown with winter wheat and barley and in corn stubble fields; they roost in nearby water bodies – coastal lakes and reservoirs, situated no farther than 50 km from the feeding grounds. During the day the birds fly regularly to the lakes to drink water.
In Bulgaria, red-breasted geese spend the night in the water, usually in the middle of the lake, but in times of high hunting pressure and in calm weather they roost in the sea too. When the lakes freeze, they spend the night on the ice.
Redbreasts spend about 4–5 months in their wintering grounds.
Their survival in winter depends on how peaceful the conditions are at the sites for resting and feeding – when the birds have to spend more time flying away from human disturbance, they lose energy and are exhausted. As with other species of geese, redbreasts also build up the energy stock that they need for the breeding season in their wintering grounds, as well as on rest stops along their spring migration flyway; therefore, peace and food availability in these areas has an impact on their yearly life cycle and their breeding success in the far-away Arctic.
Illegal hunting – a serious threat
During migration and in winter red-breasted geese form mixed flocks with white-fronted geese. As the latter are a game species, redbreasts often fall victim to hunters. Data collected through satellite tagging and colour ringing reveal that almost 40 per cent of the birds can fall victim to illegal hunting during migration.
Even when red-breasted geese are not the direct target of hunters, the pressure results in significant disturbance for the birds and compels them to spend more time in flight in an attempt to move away from the hunters; thus they lose energy and are easily exhausted.
Any large-scale changes in the agricultural practices in the wintering grounds of red-breasted geese can lead to a new shift. Therefore, sustainable development of agriculture in the region of Dobrudzha is needed, taking into consideration both human, as well as red-breasted goose needs.
Infrastructure projects – a new threat
One of the most recent threats for red-breasted geese is associated with the greater number of infrastructural projects in the Bulgarian Northeastern Black Sea Coast in recent years. This includes wind parks and touristic venues – both existing, as well as planned. Such infrastructural projects threaten to significantly reduce the area of the available habitats used by red-breasted geese for feeding and resting.
The BSPB has been carrying out research and conservation activities for the red-breasted goose for nearly 25 years. It all started back in 1995 with the launch of the regular monitoring of the species in NE Bulgaria. The monitoring takes place every two weeks from the beginning of November till the end of February. The BSPB also initiated the establishment of an international working group for the red-breasted goose with participants from all the countries in the area of distribution of the species.
Monitoring of the wintering population
The monitoring of the wintering geese is one of the longest running monitoring programmes managed by the BSPB, starting in the 1990s.
Since 1994 a consistent methodology is applied for the area of Shabla and Durankulak Lakes. Every year from November to March a count is organized every two or three weeks. For several years now it includes the Burgas Lakes and the area around the town of Svishtov.
Every winter 3 or 4 international coordinated counts are organized too in cooperation with Romania and Ukraine. The data from these counts allow us to make an estimation of the global population of the species, and hence – of its conservation status too.
Fight against poachers and illegal hunting
The main activities that have been carried out since the mid-1990s are associated with the monitoring of the wintering population of red-breasted geese in Bulgaria and the fight against poaching in the area of Shabla and Durankulak Lakes – key territories for the species in the winter.
In Bulgaria, red-breasted geese are exposed to stress and disturbance by illegal fisherman that enter the lakes in boats, by poachers and by chasing away from the fields where they feed. This has an impact on their survival, the success of their spring migration, and on their breeding success too.
The BSPB works with regional state structures for improving coordination between the institutions responsible for the implementation of nature conservation and hunting legislation, and for improving the efficiency and intensity of control and regulation during the hunting season too. Despite the occasional poaching incidents in the wintering grounds of the red-breasted goose, the attitude and the conscience of the majority of the hunters and hunting parties in the area of Shabla and Durankulak Lakes have undergone a substantial change over that long period. Unfortunately, problems still exist with visiting hunters from other regions of the country.
The introduction of a wider no-hunting area of 350 m around Shabla and Durankulak Lakes in the period December–January by order of the Bulgarian Minister of Environment and Water was a significant success. This wider area will contribute for a better protection and peace for the geese that winter in the area of the lakes.
The BSPB works actively for raising the awareness and the knowledge of hunters and law enforcement institutions by organizing specialized regional trainings with experienced lecturers from a variety of backgrounds related to hunting and nature conservation legislation, and with lecturers from the field of sustainable hunting and ways for its regulation.
Providing food resources for red-breasted geese
The first attempts of the BSPB to promote and introduce agri-environmental measures and sustainable agriculture practices in favour of red-breasted geese date back to the 1990s.
Within a project funded by the LIFE+ Programme of the EU and in cooperation with local agricultural producers we carried out a detailed survey of the preferred feeding grounds for the species and their use, as well as of the impact the geese have on the yield of winter wheat. Based on the results of the study we developed a regional agri-environmental measure under the Rural Development Programme that stimulates agriculture producers to grow and use cultures that are suitable for red-breasted geese, thus providing the necessary food resources in the areas that are key for it during the winter season.
The measure also provides compensation for the losses on the yield of winter wheat that local agricultural producers suffer after intense pasture by wintering geese. Before the measure was approved and implemented, the BSPB launched a pilot testing on the territory of the Municipality of Shabla; we carried out an educational campaign among local farmers, providing assistance for the preparation of the documentation and its submission.
Satellite research of the local movements and the migration
So far, more than 30 geese were tagged with transmitters, and more than 300 were colour-ringed for individual identification within the research programme on the species run by the BSPB. The main goal of the programme is to collect data about the threats and the survival of red-breasted geese, as well as to facilitate the work of the teams that carry out the monitoring of the species during migration and in winter.
The transmitters are fitted on the geese in their wintering grounds in Bulgaria or in Kazakhstan, during their spring migration. For the moment, the BSPB uses mostly satellite GPS transmitters and GPS-GSM transmitters. The devices are fitted with a solar panel to ensure their prolonged operation. There are fitted chiefly on adult birds weighing above 1.3 kg; the transmitters themselves weigh just 19–22 g – less than 3 per cent of the bird’s weight.
Protecting the habitats of the red-breasted goose
In the last 10–15 years there is a serious increase in the number and intensity of infrastructural projects in NE Bulgaria – wind-parks, touristic venues, construction, both existing as well as planned new ones. These infrastructural projects would reduce significantly the area of the available habitats for feeding and resting for the red-breasted geese. The landscape of coastal Dobrudzha has undergone a substantial transformation; for more than 20 years, the BSPB works actively for the restriction of the chaotic construction process and of the transformation of wild areas and agricultural lands into infrastructural elements for renewable energy production and touristic complexes.
A success was the moratorium on the construction of new renewable energy projects in coastal Dobrudzha, chiefly due to the case of the EC against Bulgaria for violation of the nature conservation Directives in the construction of wind-parks in the region of Kaliakra. The BSPB prepared a specialized manual for assessment of the impact of individual investment projects, and a GIS model of the key habitats for the species that enables the assessment of projects and their cumulative effect in the area. These important instruments allow decision-makers to assess adequately and objectively future projects and their impact.
International working group in action
Since 2010, the BSPB is responsible for the coordination of the Red-breasted Goose International Working Group under the Secretariat of AEWA. The mission of the group is to monitor and contribute to the implementation of the International Action Plan for the species. It consists of representatives of the state institutions and agencies, responsible for the implementation of AEWA on the territory of the respective country, together with experts appointed by the respective country, and observers from international organizations working for the conservation of the species.
So far, the BSPB has organized two operative meetings of the group and actively supports the implementation of the international action plan for the conservation of the species and the coordination of the working group through its LIFE+ projects.
The BSPB shares its experience in fields such as monitoring, training and field conservation activities within the international working group. Thanks to the international partnerships we support the colour-ringing of the species, satellite tracking, autumn monitoring in Kazakhstan, the training and implementation of good practices in the field of sustainable hunting, hunting patrols and much more.
Since 2017, the BSPB coordinates an international project under the LIFE+ Programme of the EU that includes the entire migration flyway of the red-breasted goose in partnership with the five key countries from its area of distribution. In practice, it includes the entire global population of the red-breasted goose and supports its conservation, as well as the implementation of the international action plan.
Work with local communities and people
Thanks to the long-standing efforts of the BSPB in the areas where red-breasted geese spend the winter, the species is well-known to the general public, and people are aware of the troubles it faces and the necessity for its conservation. At the same time, the BSPB works actively with local communities with the aim of popularizing the red-breasted goose but also popularizing the area as an attractive destination for sustainable tourism. With the support of the LIFE+ Programme we launched the Kite Festival which attracts tourists and locals to an exciting event in the end of the summer season. Today the event is organized and managed by the Municipality of Shabla.
Educational activities in the region are important too, as they help students from the local schools not only to appreciate the need for nature conservation but also to get to know the nature around their home in a new, attractive manner.
With support from the Whitley Fund for Nature we organize educational activities and we popularize alternative, sustainable tourism in the area of coastal Dobrudzha. | <urn:uuid:c445c6ec-d148-4e44-84e7-c6705564a880> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://bspb.org/en/activities/conservation-of-species/red-breasted-goose/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.946207 | 2,542 | 3.3125 | 3 |
Blockchain technology is gaining importance due to its ability to transform industries. Though the technology has been initially adopted in cryptocurrencies, it is being increasingly integrated in various other industries. According to World Trade Organization, the blockchain deployment could open up over $1 trillion in trade over the next decade.
Industries leveraging the Blockchain technology
According to the PWC’s Global Blockchain Survey, the Blockchain technology is majorly dominated by Financial service sector. It is due to the growth of cryptocurrencies as over 44.69 million blockchain wallet users worldwide at the end of December 2019. Moreover, banking sector has shown positive inclination towards adopting blockchain technology in cross border payments & settlements and Trade finance. The technology is very promising for quick international transactions and also eliminates the need for middlemen in financial transactions. The manufacturing sector is the next major leader in leveraging the blockchain technology. The sector is witnessing simplification of manufacturing process with the adoption of technology. For example, IBM and Maersk are integrating the blockchain technology in supply chain management to track containers in the shipping process.
The health care sector has leveraging this technology to streamline its supply chain and medicine verification process. It also helps health care institutions for better data collaborations and increases the probability of accuracy in diagnosis. For instance, Gem Health Network is a health care startup which has deployed Blockchain to serve the data driven health care sector.
It is also important to note that the major governments across the world are exploring the benefits of blockchain technology. The technology is being incorporated to prevent the risk of frauds, reducing paper work and improving accountability. Moreover, in Switzerland, the municipal government in Zug has accepted Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum as a means of payment for administrative costs. Various other Governments are also slowly considering the potential of legalizing the cryptocurrencies.
Source: PWC Global Blockchain Survey
How Blockchain is impacting the Global Economy?
With data of users being used and analyzed to provide target advertisements to individuals, digital information has become crucial. The blockchain technology provides transparency and accountability by providing decentralized database. It allows keeping records open in a distributed ledger or a database where the ledgers are not linked to a common processor. Blockchain technology allows users to fully control their personal details that they would like to share in public. Moreover, it does not allow the data to be duplicated and it registers when the data or value is transferred from one to another and thereby creating a transparent history of record.
Though decentralization in finance sector is intimidating to governments but with appropriate levels of security and removing intermediaries is proven to be beneficial. For instance, finance service giants like JP Morgan is incorporating the blockchain technology to facilitate transactions between institutions with introduction of JPCoin.
Changing business landscape
The blockchain technology is revolutionizing the industries by altering the landscape of business. Tokenization’s such as representing a real or virtual asset on a blockchain, Initial coin offerings in place of shares are major indicators that the blockchain technology is changing the business landscape. For instance, Telegram, a messaging app raised $1.7 billion through Initial coin offering. The initial coin offerings are increasingly becoming the alternative to classic debt/ capital funding provided by private equities, banks and venture capitals.
In 2019, Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) and World Bank announced to build a new blockchain operated deb instrument called Bond-i and thereby enabling secondary market trading of the bond on the blockchain.
Enterprise software platforms such as Microsoft, SAP, Salesforce are all integrating blockchain technology to streamline core business processes, improve data integrity and facilitate data sharing.
Rise of virtual currencies
Blockchain technology has led to emergence of numerous cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Litecoin. The market caps of all the cryptocurrencies is around $237.1 billion. Cryptocurrency holders are majorly using it due to the absence of financial intermediaries and anonymity i.e., the buying and selling goods and services with cryptocurrencies does not require disclosure of personal identities. For instance, there are around 25 million Bitcoin users globally and most of them are using it for investment purpose. Though there are adequate government backed currencies functioning globally, the rise of cryptocurrencies is seen as a threat to fiat currencies. Several central banks are cautious given the market’s extreme volatility. But there is a shift in trend supporting cryptocurrencies by government. Government of China is willing to embrace the cryptocurrency and Central bank in United Kingdom has called it has part of revolution in finance. Most notable government favoring cryptocurrency is Venezuela, which launched its own cryptocurrency called Petro.
Emergence of new industries and territory leaders
Blockchain technology has led to rise of initial coin offering, crypto trading, digital wallets, alternative currencies which are relatively new in this millennium. According to the World Economic Forum, at least 10% of the global GDP is being stored on blockchain platforms by 2025. Early adopters of the blockchain technology is currently the dominating the global landscape. Countries like US, China are dominating the Blockchain industry globally.
Source: PWC Survey
Reducing operational costs, Process streamlining and quick secured international transactions
The blockchain technologies digitize, secure and accelerate the business processes and supply chains across the global market. In International trade, generally a transaction can take around 120 days to complete. The technology can help to move from paper based business to digitally verifiably process and thereby facilitating quick international transactions in real time. The technology includes micro payment mechanism which was previously thought impractical and thereby increasing the security level of transactions. It also helps to reduce fraud and facilitates more rapid business operations. Moreover, the blockchain technology has the potential to solve major problems such as compliance problems, lack of trust. The historical record and transparency provided by the technology can help to overcome these issues.
Blockchain industry has the potential to disrupt various industries but has also proved to be a value creator in the global economy by enabling to transfer value to the clients or consumers directly. The technology gives users the opportunity to manage and self-regulate the platform themselves and thereby creating an efficient and independent platform. Major challenge remains in this technology is how to scale blockchain based systems in a decentralized environment. The industry also requires essential standards and frameworks to safeguard the investments made in blockchain innovations and applications.
Disclaimer: The author of this text, Robin Trehan, has an undergraduate degree in Economics, Masters in international business and finance, and MBA in electronic business. Trehan is Senior VP at Deltec International www.deltecbank.com. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this text are solely the views of the author, and not necessarily reflecting the views of Deltec International Group, its subsidiaries, and/or employees.
Thank you for your interest in the Deltec Initiatives Foundation. You can contact us using the form below.
Before sending a message to us, kindly note that we do not accept requests for funding. Thank you for your understanding. | <urn:uuid:c818cb4a-a0d5-4854-bc42-ddb2e278f25c> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.deltecbank.com/2020/05/16/impact-of-blockchain-industry-on-global-economy/?locale=en | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.93236 | 1,397 | 2.71875 | 3 |
Dennis Kyle: Finding Solutions for Deadly Diseases
GRA Endowment helps researchers save lives through drug discovery
The Amoeba Summit in Orlando last year is where the importance of her work on drug discovery for deadly amoebae really hit home for Cassiopeia Russell.
It was there she learned the story of an 11-year-old boy who had gone on a family vacation to Costa Rica and was having a great time going down a waterslide at a hot spring there. Days later, he started complaining of a terrible headache. Then he started vomiting. Within a week, he was dead. The cause was a microscopic organism, Naegleria fowleri, living in the warm waters of the spring.
Russell, a doctoral student, had been working in the lab of Dennis Kyle, director of the UGA Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, for about a year when she was able to attend the conference thanks to a Georgia Research Alliance (GRA) endowment and learn how the research she does in the lab is making a real impact on people’s lives. The GRA was founded with the goal of expanding Georgia universities’ ability to conduct high-level research with the potential of bringing new and innovative products to market. Kyle is the GRA Eminent Scholar in Antiparasitic Drug Discovery, and his endowment enables him to run a 16-person staff of student researchers, postdocs, and research scientists.
“I asked myself at the beginning if I really wanted to work on a parasite this rare,” Russell says. “But if you look at the statistics, this parasite infects mainly young children. Hundreds have died.” She thinks about that every day in the lab.
More commonly referred to as the brain-eating amoeba, Naegleria fowleri is a surprisingly common amoeba found in warm water lakes, ponds, and rivers. When water is forced up the nose—like when diving into a body of water or repeatedly riding a waterslide—the parasite travels to the brain, where it attacks the organ’s cells. Though infections are rare, the brain-eating amoeba kills almost everyone it infects.
One reason Naegleria fowleri is so deadly is because symptoms of the infection resemble those of viral meningitis, a much more common and more treatable disease. “That misdiagnosis and waiting to see if the patient gets better after beginning treatment is wasting valuable time,” says Russell. She’s committed to finding faster, more effective ways to diagnose the condition so patients can get the right medications in time to stop the disease’s progression.
The Georgia Research Alliance really helped me set up this whole operation when I got here. Without the GRA, there’s no way that I could have had this team going for three years.” — Dennis Kyle, GRA Eminent Scholar in Antiparasitic Drug Discovery
As a member of Kyle’s lab, Russell also tests drug compounds to see which ones can kill an amoeba without destroying the human cells it infects. Current drugs used to treat the infection aren’t very effective and are highly toxic.
Despite being almost 99% fatal, not many federal dollars go toward research on brain-eating and other kinds of amoebae. That’s where the Georgia Research Alliance comes in.
“The Georgia Research Alliance really helped me set up this whole operation when I got here,” says Kyle. “Without the GRA, there’s no way that I could have had this team going for three years. This is something that we have concerns about in Georgia. Every summer, we hear of Naegleria fowleri cases on the news. But we don’t have many people worldwide working on it and very few doing the drug discovery needed to come up with a new drug that could save lives. And that’s really our goal.”
The other main area of research in the Kyle lab is malaria and how the parasite becomes resistant to the drugs commonly used to treat it. Additionally, a less commonly studied strain of malaria can go dormant inside its host, effectively hiding in the liver until flaring up weeks, months, or even years later. Kyle and his team were able to develop a model that simulates that dormant phase to test a variety of drugs to find a way to kill the parasite.
But in order to use that model, researchers in the lab must collect parasites from the field. The endowment helped the lab send assistant research scientist Steven Maher to Asia 25 times over the past four years to work with partners in Cambodia and Thailand.
“International travel has definitely changed my life,” Maher says. “Right now, we’re supporting people in Asia and their families, and I think having that human connection is really important. I think all too often we do research and we forget about ‘how is what I’m doing helping real people?’ I think a lot of researchers would benefit from that type of experience.”
The Georgia Research Alliance, private donors, and the UGA Athletic Association are committed to providing researchers like Russell and Maher with opportunities to advance their work on deadly infectious diseases threatening nations around the world. | <urn:uuid:7f1ff734-8d7c-4f49-84b2-8f93a38ad400> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://ctegd.uga.edu/dennis-kyle-finding-solutions-for-deadly-diseases/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.960292 | 1,109 | 2.84375 | 3 |
What Even Is Postpartum? We Made You A Guide For The Other Side Of Childbirth
During pregnancy, there tends to be a heavy focus on labor and birth, with far less emphasis on what happens when you get home.
I was obsessive about preparing for labor throughout my pregnancy -- to the point that there was no room to think about what would happen afterward. My plan was to read up about all things postpartum after I got through the birth.
I regretted that decision immediately after I got home, which marked the start of an anxiety-induced insomnia that lasted two weeks. It felt like one ridiculously long day in which the sun kept rising and setting.
My main activities during that time included:
- Obsessively searching the internet for information about breastfeeding as tears streamed down my face
- Hallucinating that my baby was injured
- Dreading the pain/gore that accompanied every trip to the bathroom
And then there was the overwhelming, judgmental narrative running through my head: I am definitely screwing this up. I am definitely doing this wrong.
This is why, when we received a suggestion that KPCC/LAist should do a story about how to prepare for the postpartum phase, I was like, YES.
We talked to a doctor, a doula and a lactation consultant, but the first step was talking to all of you. We asked if anyone wanted to share their experiences — from the ghastly to the glorious — and over 70 of you responded with stories that were raw, candid accounts of those first weeks after birth.
And while there are some common themes, everyone's postpartum phase is different. Every parent is different. Every infant is different.
While I experienced heightened anxiety, one colleague told me she heard so many postpartum horror stories that she was concerned when her experience was not as intense as she expected. She took her 2-day-old baby to a farmer's market.
Below is a collection of your stories, some tips from the experts, and a blueprint for preparing for the postpartum phase.
'Our Society Is Not Set Up To Care For Us'
Many countries and cultures have practices to ensure moms get the rest they need after giving birth.
There's the Latin American custom called la cuarentena, a period of 40 days of rest, or the Chinese zuo yue zi, or "sitting the month," a month of staying inside the house, abiding by strict rules, and eating a special diet. Many countries have over a year of maternity leave or provide maternity nurses who visit your home.
But in the U.S., nearly 1 in 4 employed mothers return to work just two weeks after giving birth.
"Our society is not set up to care for us and to give us time to care for our babies in the way that we need," says Dr. Sayida Peprah, a psychologist who specializes in maternal mental health. "If you feel like you need more help, unapologetically get help. Don't feel like you should be able to do this by yourself."
Assemble A Team For Essential Needs
Peprah recommends having someone visit or be there every day — for at least a month — to help take care of you and the baby.
She says the level of support you get directly impacts your emotional state and ability to cope with the tidal wave of changes during this period.
When planning for your basic needs during this time, consider these aspects:
- Recovery. You may have mobility limitations whether you have a cesarean birth or a vaginal birth. Who will help you get around and bring you what you need?
- Sleep. You will be feeding the baby every two hours. Who will take care of everything else at home in between so you can sleep or rest?
- Meals. Who will be cooking? Who will actually be ordering food? This may mean assembling a meal train to have friends and family deliver food to you.
- Breastfeeding support. If you decide to breastfeed, many moms need help.
- Emotional support. Who can you weep to or text at 2 A.M.?
- Returning to work. If you do work, how will your workplace accommodate you when you return?
"I would advise new mothers going into it to plan your postpartum better than your birth," says mom of one-month-old Carina Lieu. "I don't know if it's the product of living in a competitive society, but one of the things that annoys me about pregnancy is how much everyone tries to pull off an image of having a great time. I don't mean to scare people or rain on anyone's parade, but postpartum is really hard."
Many moms talked about the saving grace of supportive partners, parents, and friends.
Reader Maya Iñigo-Anderson told us, "The absolute life saver that helped me to become my old self again... was my family and my friends -- the forever loyal way-back-when friends and also new friends from my Mommy and Me group."
Brace For "The Hallway In 'The Shining'"
"The biggest question I kept asking myself was, 'Why didn't anyone tell me?'" wrote reader Kiki Burger. "You feel like you prepare with books, classes, a baby shower, etc., but what you really need for yourself and your own healing is never talked about! It's crazy that friends don't even tell other friends. I'll never forget leaving a two-day-old home and driving in basically a diaper to CVS to try and find more of the products I needed. Spoiler alert: CVS doesn't carry them."
Reader Laura Cohn described physical recovery as "a veritable tidal wave of I don't know WTF afterbirth viscose liquid keeps seeping from my vagina — for SEVEN WEEKS. It was like the hallway in 'The Shining.'"
What happens to you physically after childbirth can look and feel alarming, but it can be an indicator that your body is doing what it should be doing to heal. (Of course, do not hesitate to call your doctor to confirm, or if you think there might be a problem).
Dr. Margaret Lynn Yonekura, director of LA Best Babies Network and a high-risk OB specialist says, "As your uterus shrinks down, it is going to cramp. Every time we breastfeed, oxytocin is released, which causes your uterus to cramp. And so people wonder, what the heck is going on here? But actually, that's a good thing. Your uterus has to go from the size of a watermelon to the size of a lemon over the course of six weeks."
Learn The Recovery Specifics
Many sites provide detailed descriptions of physical recovery -- the specifics for you will depend on your birth experience, whether you had a vaginal delivery or a c-section, and what particular things happened during the birth.
The important thing to remember is that childbirth is a very big deal, it takes time to recover, and you will need help to get the crucial rest you need.
Here are just a few areas that will need time to recover -- and other things to keep in mind:
- Perineum: If you have a vaginal birth, you'll likely feel pain in the space between your vagina and your rectum. This will vary depending on whether or not you had an episiotomy or had a vaginal tear -- and how many stitches you received. Ice, pain relief spray and sitz bath can all help with the healing process.
- Constipation: The first bowel movement after birth can be intense. Things that can help are eating foods high in fiber, avoiding foods that constipate, drinking water, and taking stool softeners.
- Hemorrhoids: These can appear during pregnancy and from pushing during labor, and they can be worse if you had them before. You may need Tucks or pads soaked in witch hazel.
- Cramps, bleeding and vaginal secretions: As your uterus shrinks back to its original size, you'll feel cramping, accompanied by bleeding as your body gets rid of the blood and tissue that was inside your uterus. It's heavy and can include blood clots.
- Incision: If you have a cesarean birth, you will feel pain internally and at your incision. To prevent infection, you will need supplies to protect and care for the incision. You will also need to to do things like hold a pillow against your abdomen have if you have to cough or sneeze. Depending on the type of stitches, you might need to return to the doctor's office to remove them.
- Circulation: It will be important to walk around after a c-section to prevent blood clots.
- Fatigue: Just reading this list is exhausting. And after childbirth, your body will be tired. You will have also lost a lot of blood -- typically more if you have a c-section. You will start immediately feeding your baby every two hours. You will be tired.
- Sex: This may be one of the last things on your mind. But also it's not allowed for your health. It can interfere with your perineum healing in the first four to six weeks. Sex after a cesarean delivery is also prohibited until cleared by your doctor, typically after a six week follow-up appointment.
Some people advise creating your own recovery kit to help with your comfort, and to make sure you have the supplies you want and need at the ready. Many people will also tell you to take home any supplies that aren't bolted down in your hospital room -- diapers, ice packs, oral syringes, mesh underwear, gauze, etc.
Oh, The Emotions. (They May Not Be What You Expect.)
Physical recovery is rough. Emotional recovery can sometimes be harder.
Many moms think that they will feel an immediate attachment to their baby after birth, and worry when they don't feel that instant bond.
Reader Stacy C. shared, "When they placed my baby on me after birth I didn't even know what to do. I wasn't crying like I thought I would be and I was holding this slimy alien creature asking the nurses to take him off of me."
She says it took weeks, but little by little she began to bond with her baby and her love for him continues to grow exponentially.
Sonia Torres works as a parent educator for The Whole Child, which is one of several home visiting programs in Los Angeles County that deploy coaches to visit moms during pregnancy and after birth, throughout early childhood.
She finds herself reassuring new moms to let them know that it's normal to feel strong emotions. "There's a stigma of, 'I have a baby, I have to be happy. I have to feel good about it.' So [moms worry when they have thoughts like], 'I'm a little sad. I'm worried.'"
It's totally normal to feel a whole range of emotions, and many of these came up in the stories moms submitted.
Many explored themes of inadequacy (i.e., I'm not doing this right), comparison (i.e., why does it seem so easy for other moms I know?), permanence (i.e., oh no, my life is like this now FOREVER), and loneliness.
Many moms also talked about dealing with the massive identity shift of becoming a new mom.
"I cried all the time because I wasn't sure who I was," says reader Amber Norwood. "Before I was pregnant, I would stay out late, closing down bars and smoking, writing poetry and teaching. All of a sudden, I didn't have the emotional wherewithal to take out the garbage."
Reader Hailey Persinger says, "The lowest point of postpartum was truly the inability of my friends to relate. At one point, we were asked by one of our very closest friends whether we were going to Costco that week and if we could pick up liquor for a party. Our daughter was two weeks old. It was flattering that everyone thought we had things under control, but the truth was that we were struggling."
Intersecting life events or dynamics can compound the emotional stress of the postpartum phase.
Many new parents spend the early weeks of their baby's life with them in the newborn intensive care unit (NICU).
LGBTQ+ parents sometimes have to negotiate rigid gender roles or gender dysphoria, particularly when breast or chestfeeding.
It's also not uncommon for new moms to have to negotiate family and partner relationships, job changes, and housing instability.
Gloria "Becky" Alvarez, said that when she became a mom at 16, she was undocumented and in an abusive relationship. When her second child was born, she was homeless.
"My postpartum experience was filled with shame and fear--basically a sink or swim situation," she says. "I share this because today I look back as a current college student and it pains me to not have known that it was not OK that I felt lost and helpless. I hope my story is useful to moms who did not finish high school. It is possible."
Sometimes a birth is traumatic, or doesn't go as planned and the early weeks can mean the beginning of processing difficult events.
"My memory of my daughter's birth is like the memory one has of a severe car accident," says reader Hannah Sandstrom, who underwent a c-section without adequate anesthesia. "I don't even remember my mom and husband being there. The pain was so severe that my only defense was psychological collapse. And I carried that into my postpartum experience."
In these cases, Peprah says it's helpful to talk through your birth as soon as you can with someone who was there with you and can help confirm the facts and answer questions. This can help paint a fuller picture of what happened and perhaps resolve feelings of self blame.
You can also arrange to see or speak with a therapist, or ask someone you trust to help you set it up. Or set it up ahead of time.
Intense crying is also common, particularly within the first couple of weeks. However if it persists, it may be a sign that you need more support.
Peprah says that another sign is if you worry about being alone with the baby, and feel a heightened sense of anxiety when others leave the room or the house.
As Priska Neely reported in a previous LAist story, 1 in 7 moms deal with some form of postpartum anxiety or depression, though because many moms do not report it, this number could be much higher.
Carmen Boatwright, mom of two, says, "I wish someone had told me there is no 'normal.' What is OK for you and baby is OK. And if something doesn't feel right, no one can say it's what you're "supposed" to be doing. I wish I had talked to someone about how I was feeling early on, instead of "powering through." Women, and even more so women of color, are charged with and expected to carry the load, suck it up and be strong. I wish someone had said it's OK to feel weak and vulnerable and you're not the first to feel this way."
She says one of the best resources for any mom, whether or not you are feeling big emotions, is to seek out other moms. There are postpartum support groups throughout the city (see resources below) -- some you pay for a series, and others are free or low-cost. In all such groups, moms share their experiences, resources and information.
Hearing other mothers tell their stories can help you feel like you're not alone in what you're experiencing.
Giant, Shiny And Engorged
How are you going to nourish this baby? As Michelle Faust Raghavan reported in a previous LADYist piece on breastfeeding, that question can be quite complicated:
There is no shortage of boob science about the nutritional benefits of breastmilk and its role in reducing the risk of developing things like diabetes and asthma in kids. For moms, it's linked to a lower risk of breast and ovarian cancers. In short, it's healthy.
There's also no shortage of reasons why some women don't breastfeed. Some women don't want to do it. Some don't because of work. For others, it's not physically possible. It may not be an option at all for adoptive parents, women who've had surgery on their breasts, or radiation, or who have hormonal conditions.
Many new parents shared their stories about the shock of realizing the magnitude of the difficulty of one of the most central human needs.
In the first few days, your boobs go through an incredible transformation. Whereas initially you might be panicking from the few drops of colostrum that drip out, all of a sudden, at day 3 to 5 when your milk comes in, your breasts are enormous and as hard as rocks.
"I remember walking around with exposed giant, shiny, engorged boobs," says reader Katrina Valliere. "I was so miserable from the pain. I tried pumping, warm showers on my back, cabbage leaves... Nothing worked but time."
And then, if you are trying to breastfeed, you have to figure out how to get that milk from your breasts into the baby.
Depending on how your baby is latching, this can be painful and challenging.
Reader Beth Biron says, "Two nights after we got home from the hospital, baby was irate. She was at the breast but it was obvious from her cries of distress that she was hungry. I lost it. Insane with sleep deprivation and mom guilt, I bawled while whispering to the baby how sorry I was that she had me for a mom, and how much I wanted to be better for her. My husband found us just like that on the couch at 2:30 in the morning."
While some women struggle with undersupply, others have milk everywhere.
Reader Ashley G. says, "When I was feeding, my daughter would get choked on that amount of milk being expelled at once. Then she'd unlatch and milk would spray all over her face. Your bras will smell like sour milk."
Brandi Jordan, pregnancy and postpartum expert and board certified lactation consultant says one of the most important things moms-to-be can do to prepare for the postpartum period is to get some kind of breastfeeding education, whether that's through a class or having real and honest conversations with friends and family members.
Jordan told us, "It can feel like what you're experiencing that first seven to 14 days is what it's going to be like forever, and it really isn't. Things open up around three weeks, which can feel like an eternity if you don't know."
There is often a lot of concern at first about whether the baby is getting enough. But, said Jordan, "If you know, from your prenatal breastfeeding class, that your baby pretty much needs about a teaspoon of milk in that first 24 hours, the moms are less concerned if they see just a few drops coming out of their breasts."
When it's hard, ask for help. Ask a friend, a family member, a board certified lactation consultant, or all of the above. (Jordan says don't be surprised if your OBs may not have all the info you need around breastfeeding because that may not be their specialty).
Many moms also shared how difficult it was to make the choice to use formula.
Reader Taylor Hamp said she's a foodie writer with a nutrition minor and was determined to make breastfeeding work. Yet despite lactation cookies, supplements, diet, over 100 ounces of water a day, and power pumping every hour and a half, she still was unable to produce enough milk to satiate her daughter's hunger. She finally switched to formula.
Says Hamp, "If I could give any advice, from someone who was fiercely devoted to breastfeeding: If it doesn't work out, give yourself grace. Do what you must so that you'll never think back and regret that you could have done more. But don't hate yourself for not living up to your expectations. A full baby is a happy baby and a healthy baby."
Jordan agrees. She says it's important for moms to think about what's most comfortable for them, "I always tell people check with yourself each day. Don't make a plan of, 'I'm going to breastfeed for three months or five months or six months.' Really just go with the flow and see what's working for you and baby. And reach out for help."
You Can Do It. You're Doing It Already.
We received lots of advice from the stories you submitted. Of course, some advice contradicted other advice — e.g. "Stay off your phone!" "Google is your best friend!" And that's because, again, every person is different. But, the overwhelming sentiment was the same.
You will get through this, as millions all over the world have done before you. And you'll come out stronger than you ever knew you could be.
Reader Hailey Persinger told us, "I wish someone had told me that the child that will be in your room with you after delivery is your child. Your baby. No one else's. You are all that baby needs. When the nurses tell you that you should hold the baby one way to nurse, but it isn't working, trust your instincts. When you don't feel respected by a doctor, demand a new one. Trust your instincts. When you know that with just a little bit of help, you could definitely get this breastfeeding thing, trust your instincts: call the lactation consultant. You know more about your baby than you think you do. Trust yourself."
Others also reaffirmed the idea of trusting your intuitions. "My mom told me something somewhere in the haze of those tough first months that I have since adapted and turned into my motherhood mantra," says reader Amber Norwood. "'Raise the baby you have, being the mama you are.' It's what I tell every new mama in my life."
- Postpartum Support International (PSI) - 24 Hour Hotline: 800-944-4PPD (4773)
- Maternal Mental Health NOW - Hosts a directory of providers and services in L.A. County
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline - 800-273-TALK (8255)
- Compassionate Friends - Support for parents dealing with loss
- National Women's Health and Breastfeeding Helpline - 800-994-9662
- BreastfeedLA - Provides education and outreach for breastfeeding in Southern California and hosts a map of local breastfeeding resources
- La Leche League
Home Visiting Programs
L.A. County has several free programs with home-based visits to support families with new babies, available depending on hospital, zip codes, and other criteria.
- Home Visiting Programs - First 5 LA's overview of the "Welcome Baby" program and participating hospitals
- Home Visiting Program Directory for L.A. County
Support groups/mom groups
The best way to find one of the many support groups and parent and me classes that exist throughout Southern California is to search online for groups in your area. You might also find these groups through your hospital or places where you find breastfeeding gear. It sometimes helps to look for activities you enjoy (eg. yoga, swimming, dancing) and see if they have "baby and me" classes.
These are just a few resources:
- 211 - Provides information and referrals for all health and human services in LA County, including a query for "parent programs."
- CinnaMoms - Support circles for black women hosted at six WIC centers in the L.A. area, with the goal of breaking down barriers to breastfeeding.
- Kindred Space - A hub for midwifery care, doula support, lactation consulting and support groups.
- LOOM - Provides pregnancy, breastfeeding classes, and a doula directory.
- Pumpstation - Offers a variety of parent and me classes
For Black Moms-to-Be
- What Pregnant Black Women Need To Know To Have A 'Safe And Sacred Birth' - Priska Neely's guide for expecting black moms
- First 5 LA's parenting site - Centralizes resources on a wide range of early childhood topics
LAist Associate Editor Lisa Brenner contributed to this report.
A version of this story was on the radio. Listen to it on KPCC's Take Two. | <urn:uuid:9dd26569-b3a3-4c21-b1f3-3afd8c3ba89e> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://laist.com/news/health/postpartum-resources-recovery-guide-prepare-tips-advice-stories | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.970848 | 5,141 | 1.601563 | 2 |
I’ve always known that I must listen more than I speak when coaching an agent. However, when I first became a team lead, I was always thinking about my response while the other person was speaking. The conversation running in my head kept me from actively listening to what the agent was saying, and I often missed out on what caused them to act the way they did.
What changed, you ask? Well, let me tell you a story to help you understand the importance of patience, observation and listening during a coaching session. I was coaching an agent who kept forgetting her passwords. She gave every excuse possible (e.g., I lost my password sheet; I changed the password, but forgot to write it down; etc.). In a coaching session, I asked the agent what she could do to remember her passwords, and she came up with solutions. She didn’t have a password issue for a few days, but then it started again.
During our next coaching session, I asked how her calls were going since the password issues had been keeping her off the phones for a while in the morning or after lunch. After observing her responses, I said, “It seems like these password issues keep you off the phones for a while. It sounds like a way to avoid taking calls?” She was shocked, but then said, “Yes.” I asked, “What are your struggles when taking calls?” She explained that she was struggling with two issues:
1. Her understanding of where to go in the system to obtain information to assist with a caller’s inquiry.
2. Confidence to reiterate to a caller the cause for denying a medical claim and the required steps to rectify the issue(s) and resubmit the claim for reprocessing.
We spent some time looking through the panels that would help her answer most caller inquiries regarding claim denial. I also printed out a few training materials that reinforced the steps we covered in our session. We formed a plan for her to spend two hours each day for the next four days with an experienced agent to identify additional resources and strengthen her confidence when a caller disagreed with a resolution.
After that, she never had another day where she forgot her passwords or was locked out from a system due to entering the incorrect password.
Tips for More Effective Coaching Sessions
The following are a few tips that can help you to deliver more effective coaching sessions for your agents:
- Preparation—the more you know about the agent’s behavior the better, such as when the behavior happens, what follows the behavior, and any documented information to support the issue(s).
- Scheduling—hold conversations with the agent off the call center floor and be respectful of the agent’s breaks and lunch.
- Listen and observe—talk less and listen more. When it’s a behavior that an agent isn’t aware of, there may be some resistance. For instance, I was coaching an agent who always placed himself in the Not Ready state seven to 10 minutes before his shift ended. This is where supporting information from the phone logs helped. The agent took a few moments to let this information sink in and vented his frustrations. I let him take his time, as after this stage passes, most agents are ready to work on solutions.
- It’s not about you. Sometimes it’s challenging to separate your ego from the situation, such as when someone criticizes a policy or decision. These are opportunities to practice empathy and ask questions, such as: “Could you please help me understand what you mean when you say…?”
- Constructive feedback—helps the agent learn what behavior(s) needs to be changed to meet performance expectations. It’s good to present objective feedback.
- Explore options. It’s a good practice to allow agents to propose suggestions to improve their behavior. I will usually offer a recommendation to get the process started and then encourage additional input from the agent. When agents come up with the solutions to improve their performance, it increases their acceptance and buy-in for change.
- Summarize. I like to summarize what the agent and I discussed. Most often, I put this in an email to document why the agent was off the floor, but it also reinforces to the agent what we discussed.
- Offer additional assistance. I close every coaching session with, “Is there is anything else I can help you with today?” I always ask this at the end to ensure that we’ve covered everything we can during this coaching session.
- Follow up—this may be in the form of scheduling another session or merely asking the agent how we will determine their progress. It’s always good to have metrics to assess progress but don’t rely entirely on them. I recall a conversation with an agent about reducing their average hold time to meet the call center’s 30-second standard. During a coaching session, we came up with a few suggestions to improve their hold-time performance. We also agreed upon a time frame for a noticeable reduction in their hold time, and the tool we would use to track changes. After two weeks, I noticed that the agent’s average hold time went up by 10 seconds, but later identified that the agent was using the incorrect phone process for interpreter calls, which caused the agent’s phone to go on hold while the agent was speaking to a caller. The issue was rectified, and the agent’s average hold time went from 50 seconds to 20 seconds for four consecutive months.
Trust Is Essential
An essential part of coaching is developing trust with individual agents. It allows agents to open up to the issue(s), be more accepting of the feedback, and follow through with suggestions to modify their behavior.
The time you invest in delivering more effective coaching sessions will help your agents improve their ability to deal with problems and cope with the unexpected. | <urn:uuid:8bf84000-c5f0-46a7-87d6-3da31046c18e> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.contactcenterpipeline.com/Article/refine-your-coaching-technique-with-listening-and-observation | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.972312 | 1,231 | 1.5625 | 2 |
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Advantages of Investing in Solar Power
Here are some of the benefits of having a solar energy system that lasts for 25+ years:
Return on Investment
When your solar energy system is built to last, this gives you time to build up a return on your investment. Let’s go through a breakdown of the components that are involved in determining your payback period.
- Gross cost of your solar panel system: This varies depending on the size of the system and the equipment used.
- Upfront financial incentives: Did you receive any tax breaks or rebates that helped lower the cost of your solar system? Federal, state, and local incentives all exist.
- Monthly electricity usage: How much electricity do you use every month? If your electricity bill is high, then your payback period is going to be reduced because your panels will be eliminating your energy bill or substantially reducing it.
- Electricity generation: There are many variables that impact how much electricity your solar panels will produce such as roof size, season, and weather. The amount of electricity your solar panels produce will depend on the design of your solar system.
- Additional incentives: Many electricity companies give you a per kilowatt-hour credit for the electricity your solar panels produce. This can be a monetary benefit.
There are many factors to consider when calculating how long it will take to see your return. However, rest assured, in time you will hit your payback period and your solar system will have paid for itself. At that point, you can kick back and enjoy your savings.
Easy to Maintain
The long-term benefits of solar include a low maintenance system. Solar panels are very easy to take care of and only need to be cleaned 2-3 times a year with a leaf blower or water hose. Going solar makes it easy to produce your own power.
Mae and Lee - Virginia
Mae and Lee, a couple from VA saved $7,665 by taking advantage of the federal solar tax credit when they purchased their solar system in 2020
Choose an Energy Source that Lasts
Now that we have done our research on the reliability of solar panels, let’s talk about the source. Solar panels obtain their energy from the Sun, the most reliable source of energy in the world. According to the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy its power “is nearly limitless”.
Going solar has many long-term benefits. There are many warranties available for your solar energy system. Solar loans have consistent monthly energy payments so your bill will never go up. Solar panels receive their energy from a powerful and endless energy source, the Sun.
Contact us to learn more about the long-term benefits of solar energy.
Schedule a Solar Consultation
Get a free quote today!
We’ll cover your first year’s payments* | <urn:uuid:d41b335d-4943-4745-b4d0-448173b477ad> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://mynoblesolar.com/how-solar-works/reliability-of-solar-panels/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.93322 | 611 | 2.234375 | 2 |
If you love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and strength, what will be the impact on your family? If you extend yourself in serving the Lord, will it hurt your children?
These are very real questions for many parents and grandparents. You love the Lord and you want to serve Him. You want your life to count for Him, but you also have a family. You feel a tension between these two things.
When Moses says, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart” (6:5), he immediately goes on to describe the impact on the family. The best way to love and serve your family is to live for the Lord. Indeed, any other choice will be destructive to the people you love. Here’s the principle: Love the Lord first, and your family will be blessed. Love your family first, and your family will suffer. But how does this work out in practice?
Align Your Life Around One Consuming Passion
Putting your family first is the worst thing you can do for your children. Aligning your life around a single passion is not the same as prioritizing. People sometimes say, “God first, your family second and ministry third.” I have never found that helpful.
How can you separate loving God from serving God? Loving the Lord is seen in obeying His commands and in devoting your life to serving Him.
When the issue of loving God and loving your family is raised, people often say, “Well, you have to keep a balance. You should set aside time for ministry, and time for your family.” It sounds good, but it is surprisingly unhelpful. If serving the Lord and serving your family have to be kept in balance, it means these two things have become separated: They are on opposite sides of the scale. They are being weighed against each other. I don’t want my family to be weighed against the Lord, I want my family to be weighed for the Lord.
Instead of looking to maintain a balance, try to achieve alignment. Moses tells us how to do that:
You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. These words that I command you today shall be on your heart (Deut. 6:5-6).
Loving the Lord has to begin in your own heart. Luther says, “This first commandment is the chief source and fountainhead which flows into all the others.” And, “Where the heart is rightly disposed toward God and this commandment is observed, all the others follow.”
Talk of them when you sit in your house… (Deut. 6:7).
Don’t let your love for the Lord, your work for the Lord, or your giving to the Lord remain private. Talk about it with your family. Let them see, as they grow, and in an appropriate way, the passion that drives you.
Bind them as a sign on your hands… (Deut. 6:8).
The hand is the means of action. Let this love for the Lord that is in your heart, and in your conversation, also be put into practice through your commitments, your choices, and your ministry. If you want to align your family around a single passion for the Lord, you have to step out and lead by example yourself. Don’t just talk about it. Do it.
Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates (Deut. 6:9).
Bring your children increasingly into this great consuming passion of your life. Let them participate in it, as they see it.
Seeing a passionate love for Christ in my father and mother has had a life-shaping impact on me. My father worked two jobs to sustain the family. He served on the church board (they were called “deacons”), taught a Sunday school class, as well as editing and producing the church magazine. It was a family production line—typed by my mother and then duplicated, collating the covers and the inserts, and then stapling it together in our home on Friday nights. My folks lived Deuteronomy 6:9. My parents wanted me to catch a glimpse of living for one, single passion for the Lord. And I saw it!
My wife and I have tried to follow that model in a small way in our own family. When we came to The Orchard, we decided to get to know as many of the people as we could. So, we invited all the members of the church to our home. There were about 800 people, and it took a year of Sunday evenings to do it. Our boys were ten and eight years old at the time. They got involved-opening the door, giving out name tags, and serving coffee.
People often ask me, “How do you protect your children from the pressures of life in ministry?” Our children have received immeasurable benefits from their exposure to ministry: the people they have met, experiences they have enjoyed, and life lessons that they have learned. It’s the tapestry of a family that’s trying to live out a biblical commitment to ministry: “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Josh. 24:15).
Let the Cross Explain the Passion of Your Life
As you live with one consuming passion for the Lord, your life will provoke questions. It will need explaining. Moses did not say “If” but, “When your son asks you, ‘What is the meaning of the stipulations, decrees and laws the Lord our God commanded you…’” (6:20, italics mine). If you love the Lord with all your heart, soul, and strength, expect questions from your children. “Why do so many people come to our home? Why are we giving all this when it could be used for other things? Other families are not like this…”
So, why are you living with this one consuming passion for the Lord? Tell your family the truth of Deut. 6:21. “If it wasn’t for the Lord, I would have been a slave. He redeemed me from past slavery, and He has promised me the future inheritance of His promised land.”
When your children ask you why you are living for the Lord, let the cross explain it. Tell them what the Lord has done for you and what He means to you. Tell them, “The Son of God loved me and gave Himself for me. Everything I have, I received from Him.”
Live for your family and you will lead them into the desert. Live for the Lord and you will lead your family into the Promised Land.
This article is adapted from Pastor Colin’s sermon, “Tell Your Children Why”, from his series, Take Two: The Power of a Fresh Start.
Martin Luther, “The Large Catechism of Martin Luther” (Fortress Press, 2010), 54 https://www.amazon.com/Large-Catechism-Martin-Luther/dp/1452803072/. | <urn:uuid:b9fc3659-5d08-4437-ae33-b334ea3715ef> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://openthebible.org/article/will-ministry-hurt-my-family/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.97143 | 1,534 | 1.625 | 2 |
Downstream processing is the part of a bioprocess where the cell mass from the upstream is processed to meet purity and quality requirements. The isolation and purification of a biotechnological product to a form suitable for its intended use, is termed DSP. Typically, this means recovery of a product from an aqueous solution. The products of biotechnology include whole cells, organic acids, amino acids, solvents, antibiotics, industrial enzymes, therapeutic proteins, vaccines etc. As these products vary greatly in size and nature, different separation principles are required for their recovery and purification. | <urn:uuid:75ec0163-bda8-4850-9f31-c3df6be895e8> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.ultrapure-international.com/downstream-processing | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.928702 | 125 | 2.3125 | 2 |
How do I go about summing up the Live Your Best concept? I never want the conversation to sound trite, or dismissive of the very real struggles we face; I never want to sound as though I’m saying that if we just try a little harder it will be all right. The fact is that sometimes things are not all right. Sometimes things go horribly wrong and we’re left broken, wounded, suffering in the face of great loss. We’re in a fog of doubt, wondering how we can go on.
Bad things happen to us all. In everyone’s life, the sun shines and storms rage. Sometimes we can understand the storms and their purpose, but at other times we’re left aching for answers to the question “Why?” The important thing, though, is how we choose to respond to the hardships that enter our world.
So my hope in all this is to offer guidance that we might hold on to in the face of the storm. Like any skill, perseverance can be learned and honed. When we practice these seven lessons, we’re never far from safe harbor.
I examine each of the lessons in a series of blog posts:
Lesson 1: Let Go of the Happiness Myth
Lesson 2: The Nature of Luck
Lesson 3: Accept Limits
Lesson 4: Cease Striving
Lesson 5: Take Every Advantage
Lesson 6: Pay Attention
Lesson 7: Find Community
These attributes of perseverance have led me to a place that deepens my character—that innermost person we find when we’re all alone. I’m more grateful, more patient (this one’s a work in progress), and more peaceful.
When I had to retire, I’d been a nurse for twenty-one years. It’s always been in me to try to help people, from working with youth to my involvement with charities like U-Turn Parkinson’s and Compassion Canada. This aspect of my character development—the deliberate effort to get outside myself and be of some good in my world—is important to me. I need to be reminded (often at times, it seems) that I’m not the center of the universe and that I’m not the most hard-done-by individual on the planet, either. There are people who live under much worse circumstances. I need to find a way to give back that doesn’t keep me in the spotlight.
In a fast-paced world, it takes a lot of effort to slow our personal lives enough to help ourselves, let alone those around us. Yet I’ve often been surprised by how much I benefit from taking the time to lend others a hand—it deepens, adds texture to, brightens, and matures me. It makes me more joyful and content with the person I am when I’m all alone. My character is changed for the better.
This is what it means to Live Your Best: To embrace the suffering that comes our way. To hold it close as our new best friend whom we hate. To keep going in the face of suffering and to allow the journey of perseverance to work into our character a new and better person.
Doing so leads to a startling conclusion: I find hope. Hope is realized in the fact that I can live with Parkinson’s. In the fact that I can survive and even thrive in the face of it. Hope is realized in the fact that I’m made a better person in the course of the journey, that I can do this, and that I can leave my world a bit of a better place because of it. At the end of it all I discover hope. And that leaves me with a smile.
This blog post is an excerpt from the book
Perseverance: The Seven Skills You Need to Survive, Thrive, and Accomplish More Than You Ever Imagined.
Order your copy of the book. | <urn:uuid:5bcba5b4-c096-4939-9940-ee85b58892aa> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | http://www.timsr.ca/live-your-best/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882573399.40/warc/CC-MAIN-20220818185216-20220818215216-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.947221 | 837 | 1.773438 | 2 |
The virtual assistant (VA) business industry has been one of the unexplored ventures in the past few years. However, because of the global recession where many businesses closed, it has already been difficult for small and medium business owners to hire full time staffs for their administrative and office needs. There are just a lot of requirements for business owners to hire full time staffs.
In the recent months, the virtual business have created its boom to different employers worldwide. They can hire office administrative assistants or even a web assistants who can assist them with their business needs and even their online marketing needs. Since there are a lot of assistants online, many employers can easily screen and find the right assistants that are fitted to the work responsibilities that they need.
Here are the top reasons why business owners need to hire a virtual assistant:
Virtual assistants can support all your needs. They can support all your needs and you do not have to pay them much compared to a full time staff. You just need to pay them for the hours that they have worked for you; there are no taxes, health insurance, and other expenses that you have to pay plus there is no sick and vacation leaves too. You can even hire one at “YourWebPA dot com” and they can provide you with professional virtual assistants that can help your business grow.
There are no overhead expenses. You do not need to create another space in your office for another staff and you do not have to purchase more office materials or other logistical needs. They can even do the job for you with no other costs involved. Thus, you can have your own privacy in your office or you do not have to rent an office for your business; you can just consider your home as your office and become a virtual CEO where you are just managing several assistants online.
You are in control of your work relationship. You are the ones who set the contractual agreement between you and your assistant; you know what you want to happen or not – you are the ones who set the rules. Therefore, you know your own pace and you are in total control of everything. It is even easier to look for other assistants if one does not fulfill your needs. On the other hand, assistants do really do their best when working with clients since they want to establish long term working relationships rather than jumping from one client to another.
They are professionals too. Your virtual assistants can be on the same page as yours when it comes to entrepreneurial and technical knowledge. Experienced assistants have a lot of business and technical expertise that they can even share to you. Furthermore, it is a great way to add your network base since your assistants have their own circles or networks that can help you promote your products and services online.
They do not invade. If you are your own CEO and your office is just your home, it is difficult to hire another staff who will be working with you. Most likely, you feel intrusive in that way since there is someone who is entering your home and is just killing your privacy. Thus, hiring assistants is good for you since they will never darken your doorsteps and you do not have to worry on feeding them.
You can gain your own freedom. No hassles and no worries. Virtual assistants can be there when you need them and they can even opt not to interrupt you if you do not need any. Since you can create your own personal space, you can work uninterruptedly while having a peace of mind. There is nothing more enjoyable than thinking of the important things that you want to do while having a sense of security that others are doing the job for you.
Lastly, your virtual assistant saves you a lot of money since their usual rates are a lot lower compared to hiring an office staff in your own country. There is no wrong in trying to hire an assistant especially when you are starting your business. As a matter of fact most big time business owners nowadays started hiring their VAs when they were just starting. | <urn:uuid:f0b421b1-0b51-42f7-a1ef-da39a6deff30> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://businessindustry.net/outsourcing/virtual-assistant-why-need-to-hire-one.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.978108 | 804 | 1.539063 | 2 |
The transition from credit card purchases at local stores to one-click online shopping has encouraged the rise of cyber attacks. The rewards of this new mode of shopping are endless, but it puts your cyber security at risk leading to identity theft or credit card fraud unless the company has a solid Cyber security Protection System and has a strong penetration tests score.
Why is Cybersecurity Important
You cannot overlook the importance of a Cybersecurity Protection System, and this is because
- Hackers are here to stay, and they are getting more sophisticated in penetrating company cybersecurity firewalls
- More companies are dealing with cyberattacks on a regular basis, and confidential consumer and client information is at the mercy of the hackers. More so, corporations are withholding the IT security issues until they have evidence of the malicious activity
- Most personal information is tied to the retail data
In this light, you must protect from cyberattacks, and since you cannot take penetration tests of a random retail sites, we have compiled five actionable tips for cybersecurity protection.
Monitor Your Credit Card Statements on a Weekly Basis
95% of online shoppers check their credit card statements at least once a month, but experts say that it might be too late to identify any credit card fraud. More so, companies hide the fact that they have IT security issues from the public. It is now easier to review your credit card statements online, and when you see any red flags, crosscheck it with your authorized payments, and if not contact your credit card company asap.
Sign for Real-Time Payment Alerts
Before you sign up for a credit card, ensure that the company or bank has a robust Cybersecurity Protection System in place. The system will allow them to contact you before they process any payments. More so, visit the company or bank or their websites and set a maximum limit on your credit/debit card. The Cybersecurity Protection System will flag the payments above the set limit, and your bank or company will contact you via email, text, or phone call to authorize the payment.
Protect Your Private Information
There is a constant cybersecurity threat to your personal information whether you are using your phone or computer, and you will learn why cybersecurity is important when you go for years without any IT security issues. When doing online shopping, ensure that the website has a closed lock symbol at the bottom right section of the screen or it has an ‘https’ address.
Change Passwords Routinely
Having obvious passwords lowers your cyber security protection, and at least 50% of internet users use weak passwords such as initials and birthday. The risk with birthdays or social security numbers is that once a cyber criminal acquires it, they get access to all your personal information. Use a combination of numbers, letters, and special characters that have no direct connection to you and so protect from cyber attacks.
Subscribe For Cybersecurity Protection Services
Hackers have little concern for set cyber security laws and are relentless in infecting your devices with malware. Ingenious entrepreneurs are now offering cyber security protection services to protect against identity theft. They will even do penetration tests on your network’s firewall. They protect from cyber attacks and you can choose to pay for the service after the 12 months.
In conclusion, until online retail companies upgrade their cyber security protection, use the time-tested tips above to protect from cyber attacks. However, only shop on sites that you are sure they have passed the penetration test and have no IT security issues, but remember, cash is accepted everywhere without the need for cyber security. | <urn:uuid:6034a7a4-5bd6-4e25-8624-d3b6a9b7c811> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://content.pressroomvip.online/index.php/2018/02/11/5-ways-protect-cyber-attacks/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.933564 | 723 | 2.265625 | 2 |
UArizona Joins Top Institutions Teaching Technology for Public Good
In joining the Public Interest Technology University Network, the university will expand its research and teaching capacities to leverage advances in artificial intelligence, machine learning and other technology in ways that serve the public interest.
The University of Arizona has joined a network of institutions across the United States committed to teaching students how technology can be used in the public's best interest.
The Public Interest Technology University Network was established around a burgeoning field that the group's founders call "public interest technology" – using technological knowledge and expertise to promote the public good. The field involves a variety of disciplines, including engineering, design, computer science, information science, public policy, philosophy and law.
Known as PIT-UN, the network was formed in spring 2019 by New America, the Ford Foundation and the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation. Its 21 original institutions include Arizona State University, Carnegie Mellon University, Columbia University and Harvard University, among others. The University of Arizona was one of 14 other American universities to join the network this week, bringing the total membership to 36.
As a member of the network, the university will continue to support faculty development, education and research related to public interest technology, and recognize faculty who are involved in those efforts. It will also provide experiential learning opportunities, such as clinics, fellowships and internships, and use institutional data to measure the how effective those efforts are.
"Our PIT-UN membership will provide additional momentum for the University of Arizona to embrace our strategic plan in new ways, harnessing the power of new opportunities such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, quantum communications and mixed-reality tools, while always remaining focused on public interests," said Brooks, who is also an associate professor in the school. "I am just so pleased the University of Arizona is now a part of the network because it matters as we move forward with new developments and discoveries."
Among the university's planned initiatives in public interest technology is a 15-credit graduate certificate program in human rights and technology, focused on the intersection of those two fields. The proposal is being developed by the School of Information, in conjunction with the online graduate program in Human Rights Practice.
The university is already engaged in several projects related to public interest technology. Some of them include:
- TechLaw, a James E. Rogers College of Law program designed to educate tech-savvy lawyers who can shape technology policy.
- The Privacy Problem-Solving Project, a consulting clinic that helps nonprofits, universities and startup companies approach their collection of personal data in a way that serves their clients' interests and those of the public. The clinic includes graduate students studying law, engineering, information science and other areas.
- The Eller College of Management's Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, which researches pertinent issues in the field of cyber security, such as power-grid security and hackers' use of forums to share stolen personal data.
- The School of Information's Center for Digital Society and Data Studies, a research center focused on data privacy, information accessibility and inequity, art and science collaborations, and more.
University of Arizona in the News | <urn:uuid:f8d88ef1-51d2-4205-a024-9099ac244f08> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://news.arizona.edu/story/uarizona-joins-top-institutions-teaching-technology-public-good | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.944263 | 646 | 2.40625 | 2 |
For individuals 70 1/2 or older – the answer is usually yes. What many retirees don’t know is they can donate all, or a portion of, their required minimum distribution (RMD) directly to charity. It’s called a qualified charitable distribution or QCD.
How much of your RMD can you give to charity?
No matter the amount of your RMD for the year, you can give up to $100,000 to charities from your IRA as QCDs.
Can you gift your RMD?
Yes, absolutely. Beginning in the year you turn 72, you can use your gift to satisfy all or part of your RMD.
Can I donate my RMD to my church?
You are eligible to make a Qualified Charitable Distribution as soon as you turn 70½. … By making a QCD in this case, none of the QCD is taxable. In years when Required Minimum Distributions (RMD) are enforced, QCDs count toward the RMD but gross income excludes 100% of the donated amount.
Can an RMD be donated to a donor advised fund?
Yes. Although you cannot make QCDs to your donor-advised fund account during your lifetime, you can donate traditional IRA, 401(k), and some other tax-deferred assets to a donor-advised fund account upon death by way of a beneficiary designation.
Does QCD satisfy RMD?
QCDs can be counted toward satisfying your required minimum distributions (RMDs) for the year, as long as certain rules are met. In addition to the benefits of giving to charity, a QCD excludes the amount donated from taxable income, which is unlike regular withdrawals from an IRA.
Will QCD be allowed in 2021?
QCDs aren’t permitted from company plans like 401(k)s or 403(b)s. Now, but only for the remainder of 2021, this QCD tax benefit can be greatly expanded thanks to provisions in recent tax laws. … The AGI limit on tax deductions for cash gifts to charity is currently 100%, but that ends at the end of this year.
What is the 2021 gift tax exclusion?
The first tax-free giving method is the annual gift tax exclusion. In 2021, the exclusion limit is $15,000 per recipient, and it rises to $16,000 in 2022. You can give up to $15,000 worth of money and property to any individual during the year without any estate or gift tax consequences.
How can I reduce my RMD on my taxes?
Minimize RMD Taxes With a Roth Conversion
If you have assets in a tax-deferred account, you could avoid RMDs and their associated taxes by rolling the balance into a Roth IRA. This is done through a Roth conversion in which you essentially turn tax-deferred assets into tax-free ones.
At what age does RMD stop?
The first time you take an RMD, you’ll have until April 1 of the year following the year you turn 72 to do so. After that, you generally have until Dec. 31 of the current year to take that year’s RMD.
Can I give my 401k RMD to charity?
Money from an individual retirement account can be donated to charity. What’s more, if you’ve reached the age where you need to take required minimum distributions (RMDs) from your traditional IRAs, you can avoid paying taxes on them by donating that money to charity. That tax break was made permanent in 2015.
What is the RMD table for 2021?
You must take out your first required minimum distribution by April 1 of the year after you turn 70.5. For all subsequent years, you must take the money out of your accounts by Dec. 31.
IRA Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) Table for 2021.
|IRA Required Minimum Distributions|
Can you take charitable donations without itemizing in 2020?
Following tax law changes, cash donations of up to $300 made this year by December 31, 2020 are now deductible without having to itemize when people file their taxes in 2021. … This change allows individual taxpayers to claim a deduction of up to $300 for cash donations made to charity during 2020. | <urn:uuid:badb68ac-444e-462c-b3a7-6561faddc86c> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://inspiredphilanthropist.com/charity/frequent-question-can-i-donate-rmd-to-charity.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.950527 | 929 | 1.585938 | 2 |
Background: While the incidence of non-Hodgkins lymphoma (NHL) has been rising worldwide, the reasonsremain undefined. Recent research has focused on effect of red andf processed meat intake as a risk factor, butwith inconclusive results. We therefore conducted a meta-analysis of data published to date, to ascertain theoverall association between intake and NHL. Materials and
Methods: A published literature search was performedthrough Pubmed, Cochrane Library, Medline, and Science Citation Index Expanded databases for articlespublished in English. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs) were calculated usingrandom or fixed effects models. Heterogeneity was assessed using Chi-square and I2 statistics. Disseminationbias was evaluated by funnel plot analysis.We performed a formal meta-analysis using summary measures fromthese studies.
Results: In total, 11 published studies were included in the final analysis. The combined analysisrevealed that there was significant association between the red meat and NHL risk (OR=1.10, 95%CI: 1.02 to1.19, p=0.01). Additionally, there was showed significance association between processed red meat and NHL risk(OR=1.17, 95%CI: 1.06 to 1.29, p=0.001). In subgroup analysis, a statistical significant association was notedbetween diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) (OR=1.20, 95%CI: 1.04 to 2.37, P=0.01) and red meat intake.
Conclusions: In this meta-Analysis, there was evidence for association between consumption of red meat, orprocessed meat and risk of NHL, particularly with the DLBCL subtype in the red meat case. | <urn:uuid:1e64724e-583d-4074-9d99-cb663f72a530> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | http://journal.waocp.org/article_30284.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882573399.40/warc/CC-MAIN-20220818185216-20220818215216-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.950922 | 379 | 1.640625 | 2 |
The holidays are upon us, and so are the beautiful decorations and lights. With holiday decorations can come fires. Disaster Cleanup Services wants your holidays to be nice and disaster free. Below we will go over some tips to ensure your holiday lights are safe and in good working order.
Before you begin the decorating process, it is crucial that you check all your wires. Even the tiniest break in a wire can be a safety concern. If the wires are frayed or broken, you should replace the decoration. Never use a decoration that has broken or frayed wires. It is a severe fire concern.
Lights will still work if you have a broken bulb. It is important to check each light for breaks, as it can cause a fire if water gets into the broken area of your lighting. Replacing the bulb is simple and can save you from a serious fire.
There are indoor and outdoor extension cords and decorations. Never use indoor extension cords outdoors. If the extension cord gets wet, it could short out and cause a fire. Please make sure you check your decorations and cords to ensure they are for outdoor use.
Plugging too many decorations in one area can be a safety concern. Fires can start from an overloaded circuit. It is crucial that you understand the voltage of your decorations and plug them in accordingly. Your extension cords should also be powerful enough to handle your decorations.
This should be a no-brainer, but many people forget to water their trees. If you have a live tree, you need to water it regularly. If not, it becomes a fire hazard and can quickly catch on fire from a hot bulb or other decoration.
Above are some simple tips to ensure your holiday season is disaster free. If you do have a fire, give us a call. We are the number one fire restoration company in the area. | <urn:uuid:55456848-a3b7-4b83-a09c-29d066cec689> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://coloradodisastercleanup.com/holiday-lighting-fire-safety/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.93697 | 376 | 1.53125 | 2 |
A little girl who wants playtime to never end learns the importance of darkness and rest in What if Night? Rich blues and purples form a peaceful backdrop for nocturnal animals and insects, contrasting with the bright white of the moon and the young girl’s knitted yellow hat. With her playful pup by her side, she grows to appreciate and preserve the darkness, taking care to turn off all of the lights before tucking herself into bed to wait for another day of play to begin.
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255. | <urn:uuid:f0a52102-a6b8-42ff-88c8-2741466e9477> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.forewordreviews.com/reviews/what-if-night/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.946994 | 192 | 1.859375 | 2 |
The food of the Gods…… We’ve been playing with this stuff for nearly 3,000 years and it’s only continued to increase in popularity.
What you know as chocolate is actually the seed of the Theobroma Cacao tree that have been fermented, then roasted and ground into a paste before being further processed in various forms. Even this took a few hundred years.
Traditionally made into a bitter drink that was prized by the Aztecs, it took Westerns a while to find a way to adapt it to suite their taste by adding honey, vanilla, sugar and other spices.
It was a Dutch guy named Coenraad van Houten who really changed the game and ushered in what we would call the “Modern Era” of Chocolate starting with adding alkaline salts to cut down on the bitterness then a few years later, developing a way to extract the fat.
While the plant itself is native to Central and south America roughly two thirds of Chocolate now comes from Western Africa and there are three main types of Chocolate. The first is called Criollo and it’s the rarest partly due the fact that it’s a pain in the ass to grow and doesn’t yield much volume. Forastero is most likely what you’ve eaten but in terms of quality, it’s rather bland. Trinitario is a hybrid of the two and gets its name due to being developed in Trinidad.
With cooking, the applications are wide ranging and while there is no such thing as an “Aphrodisiac”, for most people chocolate does still some very strong emotions. Fresh berries dipped in melted chocolate with a bit of sea salt can be a game changer. If this doesn’t help your chances with a girl, well, you never really had a chance. | <urn:uuid:4dfc6427-00a3-4a24-b68d-40edbcbbb343> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | http://culinaryanarchy.com/ingredients/chocolate/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.97431 | 384 | 2.109375 | 2 |
The celebratory, revealing, inspiring, and entertaining autobiography of the greatest manager in the history of British soccer
Over the past four years, Alex Ferguson has been reflecting on and jotting down the highlights of his extraordinary career, and here he reveals his amazing story as it unfolded, from his very early days in the tough shipyard areas of Govan. Sir Alex announced his retirement as manager of Manchester United after 27 years in the role. He has gone out in a blaze of glory, with United winning the Premier League for the 13th time, and he is widely considered to be the greatest manager in the history of British soccer. Over the last quarter of a century there have been seismic changes at Manchester United, with the only constant element the quality of the manager's league-winning squad and United's run of success, which includes winning the Champions League for a second time in 2008. Sir Alex created a purposeful, but welcoming, and much envied culture at the club, which has lasted the test of time. He discusses managing these enormous changes and the growth of Man U as a global sports power. He shares the farewells to Roy Keane and David Beckham, describes the process of building a new Champions League side around Ronaldo and Rooney, and ruminates upon the great rivalries with Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, and City. He also shares his thoughts on the psychology of management and his passions and interests outside of the game. | <urn:uuid:7dc15b68-13d2-4d1c-aa0e-9c942d27a88d> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.digabyss.com/product/alex-ferguson-my-autobiography/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572089.53/warc/CC-MAIN-20220814234405-20220815024405-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.970076 | 290 | 1.601563 | 2 |
Preparatory Meaning in Spanish
You have searched the English word Preparatory meaning in Spanish preparatorio. Preparatory meaning has been search 1704 (one thousand seven hundred and four) times till 8/17/2022. You can also find Preparatory meaning and Translation in Urdu, Hindi, Arabic, Spanish, French and other languages.
Definition & Synonyms
Definition & Meaning
- (a.) Preparing the way for anything by previous measures of adaptation; antecedent and adapted to what follows; introductory; preparative; as, a preparatory school; a preparatory condition.
Multi Language Dictionary | <urn:uuid:b7a6c379-949c-44c8-984d-334030570de7> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://hamariweb.com/dictionaries/preparatory_spanish-meanings.aspx | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.878766 | 131 | 2.859375 | 3 |
Unlimited possibilities for both consumer and online-retailer?
Due to advances in technology and the rising number of vendors, online-retail has in the last years risen steadily on a global scale. For 2017, the German trade association Handelsverband Deutschland e.V., or HDE for short, had forecast revenues of 48.7 billion euros, which corresponds to a 10.2 percent increase in comparison to the year prior (HDE 2017). Even better opportunities for growth are seen in cross-border e-commerce: Given an annual growth rate of 25 percent, it is expected that worldwide cross-border e-commerce sales will reach one trillion US-dollars in 2020 (Mc Kinsey & Company).
The European Commission aims to establish a common digital European Single Market. Dependable, trustworthy, highly productive, yet affordable networks and services are to be created while exploiting the growth potentials of a European digital economy. As an added bonus, consumers and retailers will be given better access to goods and services all throughout Europe.
In 2014, according to a study conducted by the European Commission, approximately 15 percent of consumers had at one time purchased goods online from abroad. Internationalization and digitalization of commerce are allowing consumers a much broader and more international choice of goods. In line with the political initiatives, retailers also aim to expand international online commerce. Businesses are not only focusing on delivery services within Europe, but they furthermore want to expand their marketing structures on a global scale. Several online retailers already deliver to consumers in destinations abroad – including those outside of Europe – and in turn, numerous international vendors, on Amazon Deutschland for instance, offer their products on the German marketplace as well.
In this research project, we aim to explore the key factors that influence the cross-border online shopping habits of consumers are to be identified and examined. For this purpose a structural corelations model has been developed that illustrates in which specific areas various different factors influence cross-border online shopping behavior. | <urn:uuid:394a5dca-f48b-4793-8a7b-b35a1ce6407b> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.dlgeo.rwth-aachen.de/cms/Dlgeo/Forschung/Forschungsprojekte/~qmvt/Cross-Border-E-Commerce/?lidx=1 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.936281 | 414 | 1.5625 | 2 |
This 3-part series on the dynamic nature of street art, graffiti, and murals—as both symbols of cultural consciousness and cultural commodities—highlights these genres as viable assets within the regional and global creative economy of today. In this second segment, the author considers the financial side of local art initiatives.
I am pleased to share this second segment in my three-part series concerning dialogues around street art, graffiti, and public art projects in the Capital Region. In the first segment, I discussed these topics from a Troy-townie perspective.
For this installment, I explored the mural-street-art-graffiti-scene from the financial side of the equation. We all know that art is also about “biz-naz” at every level, so how does the money make its way into the street as street art? To understand more, I turned my focus to the creative economies of Troy, Albany, and Glens Falls as a trifecta case study. Each of these cities boasts a unique vibe with respect to murals and public art projects. I was delighted to communicate with several esteemed arts professionals for greater insight, including Elizabeth Reiss, Executive Director of the Arts Center of the Capital Region; Tony Iadicicco, Executive Director of the Albany Center Gallery; Chad Robinovich, Artistic Director of New Works for Constellation Stage & Screen; and Casey Polomaine, Executive Director of the Albany Barn.
Each of these conversations was lively and informative; herein I comment on some of the facts that were presented to me. Chad Robinovich—a champion of Glens Falls and a member of the Glens Falls Arts District Committee—spoke passionately about community endeavors to “beautify a beautiful city” that is also his home. Chad discussed the ongoing efforts of the New York State’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI), an organization that serves as a cornerstone of the State’s economic development program.
While Glens Falls already has an established arts district area, the DRI has supported the existing infrastructure while expanding local arts programming. Chad clarified the DRI is not only solely about funding the arts, however, some of the total $10 million grant for Glens Falls was indeed used for public art initiatives.
He also shared with me that a micro grant from the Touba Family Foundation resulted in a popular project that took place last year, where local artists—including Kevin Clark, Shelley Fairbanks, Leah Hofgesang, Stephanie Vaus, Rodney Bentley, Hannah Williams and Olga Aleksandrova—were awarded funds to paint electrical boxes around Glens Falls. He spoke sincerely about the impact of that project and how the community reacted so positively to the colorful designs, stating “a little bit goes a long way” with regard to the public reception for art.
During our call Chad spoke of Glens Falls as a place with a “speak art” vibe and he emphasized the “instant visual impact” of murals as a point of engagement. This year, the Glens Falls Arts District Committee put out a nationwide call for artists to apply for a large-scale mural project. Over the next two months, the committee will allocate approximately $75,000 to install three new mural designs around Glens Falls by artists Hannah Williams (Glens Falls, NY), Toni Ardizzone (Texas), and Jesse Melanson (Los Angeles, CA).
Turning to Troy, we encounter a thriving local energy at the Arts Center for the Capital Region (ACCR). Director Liz Reiss is a seasoned arts professional with diverse experience overseeing art in the public realm. During our conversation, she emphasized her belief that “art belongs to everyone” and that art functions as a tool for revitalization. Liz also spoke candidly about the challenge to obtain annual funding and she considers the role of the institution as the “translator” of art for the community. She carefully posed various questions with respect to the best use of funding: What needs help? Who is asking for that change? Who is most likely to benefit? Liz cited city murals as one of several modes that bring local artists further into the public realm and she lauded the resounding success of the Uniting Line, a project that received funds from Bloomberg’s “Asphalt Art” initiative. This highly visible series of murals features artwork by Jade Warrick. Originally from Los Angeles, Warrick is a Capital Region-based visual designer who focuses on bringing art and wellness programming into BIPOC and marginalized communities.
Since staring the program in 2018, Liz confirmed the ACCR has spent approximately $375,000 on various public art projects around Troy, including the Uniting Line, Franklin Alley, School 2, Troy to Troy Murals (the bulk of which was used for the Uniting Line). The ACCR is currently working to realize the Troy Glo project that will present a distinct category of public art—light sculptures—and will feature the work of architects and designers as part of these plans. Troy Glo will launch in December 2022 to coincide with the annual Troy Victoria Stroll.
Next I connected with Casey Polomaine regarding her work with public art projects in Albany. She spoke of the great success of the Capital Walls project, a collaboration between Albany Barn, Albany Center Gallery, and the Albany Parking Authority. The Capital Walls murals aim to inspire all walks of life with buoyant works of art installed in various locations around downtown Albany. Programming designed to promote and educate the community about these artworks include walking tours (docent led and self-guided), bike tours in partnership with the Capital District Transportation Authority, and the Artful Albany podcasts with Discover Albany.
Casey explained the ongoing efforts of the Capital Walls program, stating that the city is currently working to expand the program and is actively looking for new walls. She spoke of the sheer joy of public art that is made accessible to all and how the murals naturally “uplift your spirits” as works of art that break down barriers while also “putting money in the pockets of artists.”
Rounding out the trifecta focus, Tony Iadicicco provided additional information about Capital Walls. Started in 2016, the project now boasts 16 murals by local, regional, national, and international artists. Chosen from an open call, many of these artists are first time muralists while others are well-established. Tony indicated that each muralist was paired with an available, funded wall based on their style. Once selected, the muralist works closely with Tony and his team to create the work on-site. He indicated that over $150,000 in public art has been funded by Albany Parking Authority and an additional $72,000 was awarded to Albany Center Gallery as part of the DRI award (with additional partner Downtown Albany BID and Capital Walls partners).
Albany Barn also received additional funds for the Schenectady DRI for murals to be installed in Schenectady, along with a Capital Walls mural in Schenectady on Albany Street (completed in 2021). In an email to me, Tony included these comments from Matthew Peter of the Albany Parking Authority: “the murals act as landmarks, promote walkability and tourism, and restore a sense of place … At the same time, the city is able to attract and promote local art and artists and support the local creative economy, creating a win/win situation for all involved.” On a recent summer afternoon, I toured the Capital Walls murals and it was indeed a thrill to encounter these magnificent murals, each one both inspired and inspiring. As these and other arts professionals attest, the “speak art” vibes of cities such as Troy, Albany, and Glens Falls are a vital part of the artistic energy and business goals of our region as a whole.
PART III: In the next installment, we consider the “macro level” of these topics and explore how art initiatives in Capital Region fit into the arts ecosystem on a national—and international—scale.
For more check out Part I of the series : Street Art / Graffiti as Gravity – Part I of III : A Townie Perspective
Taliesin Thomas, Ph.D. is an artist-philosopher, writer, lecturer, and collector based in Troy, NY. Since 2007, she is the founding director of AW Asia, NY and the collection manager of Art Issue Editions, NY—two private art collections that are the foundation for collaborations and projects with artists and museums worldwide. Thomas has lectured and published widely on contemporary art. She is the director of the Artist Training Initiative and a critic for the Critical Forum program at the Arts Center for the Capital Region, NY and she is a faculty member at School of Visual Arts, NY. Thomas studied studio art, aesthetics, theory, and philosophy at Bennington College, Columbia University, and The Institute for Doctoral Studies in the Visual Arts. | <urn:uuid:b4a9c3ef-9f6f-4955-ae5b-03c70c6bfa02> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.upstatecreative.org/category/creative-placemaking/rensselaer-county/troy-rensselaer-county/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.953087 | 1,849 | 1.601563 | 2 |
Northern Ireland This bunch had the best chant this time. The 1996 UEFA European Football Championship, commonly referred to as Euro 96, was the 10th UEFA European Championship, a quadrennial football tournament contested by European nations.
It took place in England from 8 to 30 June 1996. It was the first European Championship to feature 16 finalists, following UEFA's decision to expand the tournament from eight teams. Games were staged in eight A top Qatari World Cup official has said that transgender and gay fans would be welcomed to the 2022 tournament but stressed that visitors would have to respect Qatari customs. Austria face North Macedonia in UEFA EURO 2020 Group C – all you need to know. Austria beat North Macedonia in Bucharest - listen to BBC Radio 5 Live and follow live text reaction. UEFA Euro 2020 Austria vs North Macedonia Highlights: Stefan Lainer, Michael Gregoritsch and Mark Arnautovic contributed in Austria's 3-1 AUSTRIA vs NORTH MACEDONIA (EURO 2020) FOOTBALL 13.06.2021 live livestream#AUSTRIA #MACEDONIA #Euro2020UEFA European Austria secured their first ever win at the Euros after a comfortable 3-1 victory over North Macedonia.
· Euro 2020: Austria churn out late win vs North Macedonia in Group C Michael Gregoritsch and Marko Arnautović both came on as substitutes and scored late to help Austria beat North Macedonia 3-1
This "beer-ware" preview is sponsored by the bookmaker shown below - if YOU use the sponsor THEN our writer will get paid the price of a beer ! Austria vs North Macedonia TV Guide, UEFA Euro Cup 2020 Match: Austria vs North Macedonia 6th match of UEFA European Football Championship 2020-21 Date: June 13, 2021 UEFA Euro Cup 2020 TV Guide, UEFA European Football Championship 2021 UEFA Euro 2020 is the 16th UEFA European Championship, the quadrennial international men’s football championship of Europe organised […] · Sigue en vivo toda la información y estadísticas del partido entre Austria y North Macedonia de la European Championship. · Austria vs North Macedonia EURO 2020 Autor: ~wteurolive 2021-06-13 18:02 1 Treści na Forum Bankier.pl (Forum) publikowane są przez użytkowników portalu i nie są autoryzowane przez Redakcję Euro 2020, Highlights: Austria vs North Macedonia: Austria beats North Macedonia 3-1 in Group C opener Euro 2021: Follow Sportstar’s live updates as Austria takes on North Macedonia in its first Group C match at the National Arena in Bucharest. Euro 2020: Austria churn out late win vs North Macedonia in Group C Michael Gregoritsch and Marko Arnautović both came on as substitutes and scored late to help Austria beat North Macedonia 3-1 H ello and welcome to Telegraph Sport's live coverage of today's second match at Euro 2020, between Austria and North Macedonia in Group C at the Arena Nationala in Bucharest, Romania.
Austria secured their first ever win at the Euros after a comfortable 3-1 victory over North Macedonia. Lainer opened the scoring in the 18th
Austria -159. Draw +230. Fyr Macedonia +440.
Denmark, and finally away-ish vs.
· Euro 2020: Austria churn out late win vs North Macedonia in Group C Michael Gregoritsch and Marko Arnautović both came on as substitutes and scored late to help Austria beat North Macedonia 3-1 · Austria 3-1 North Macedonia (Arnautovic, 89) 1.36pm EDT 13:36 GOAL! Austria 2-1 North Macedonia (Gregoritsch, 78) 1.03pm EDT 13:03 Second half; 12.47pm EDT 12:47 Half-time: Austria 1-1 North Macedonia · H ello and welcome to Telegraph Sport's live coverage of today's second match at Euro 2020, between Austria and North Macedonia in Group C at the Arena Nationala in Bucharest, Romania. Jun 13, 2021 · Austria vs North Macedonia LIVE: Euro 2020 team news, line-ups and more today.
Jun 11, 2021 · Austria vs North Macedonia Euro 2020 Tips and Predictions: Locked In Lynx Austria's best chance at a win in Group C will come in their opener against North Macedonia on Sunday. Will they need more Jun 11, 2021 · North Macedonia Euro 2020 preview - prediction, fixtures, squad, star player Ian Baraclough impressed with Northern Ireland youngsters in Austria defeat Sports Mole's Bundesliga Team of the Season Jun 11, 2021 · Published: 14:51, 11 June 2021. Austria and North Macedonia will get their Euro 2020 campaign underway at the Arena Națională in Bucharest on Sunday evening (17:00 UK time).
- Euro 2020 group format spain vs. sweden
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- Who is group c fro euro 2020 austria vs. north macedonia
But Austria vs North Macedonia at Euro 2020: The lowdown Both sides were in the same qualifying group for Euro 2020, with Austria winning on both occasions — the most recent of the two matches Euro 2020 UEFA EURO 2020, Austria vs North Macedonia LIVE streaming in India: Complete match details and TV channels. | <urn:uuid:756826ad-60f9-4d53-ae73-de8d92b6691e> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://eurowatchatbvw.web.app/letterlough82353ryx/euro-2020-hooliganism-austria-vs-north-macedonia-8553.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.854026 | 1,143 | 1.546875 | 2 |
This construction system leaves the architect perfect aesthetic autonomy founded on a solid base with unrivalled benefits for thermal insulation.
The ventilated façade architecturally embraces the building and allows it to breathe, so that the movement of air fulfils the task of keeping the building warm in winter and cool in summer. A ventilated façade is made up – from the outside to the inside – of a layer of cladding held onto the building by a special anchorage structure, normally made of aluminium, and a layer of insulation anchored to the grid supporting the cladding. The 3-5 centimetre gap formed between the structure and the building thus becomes a space in which the circulation of air decreases temperature excursions, improving the building’s performance. It is in actual fact a simple system which works by the stack effect, a natural phenomenon due to which hot air moving upwards helps maintain a constant temperature, improving conditions in the building.
This system also maintains a degree of independence from the architectural design of the building, as the principle behind it lies in the static independence of each individual tile, eliminating the mortar used to hold tiles in place. This aspect permits free use of any cladding material on the ventilated façade or wall, leaving the appearance of the building entirely up to the architect’s discretion: compact as stone, with a glossy or matt finish like ceramics or porcelain stoneware, clear as glass, translucent like metal, etc.
Movement and settlement in accordance with the dilation coefficients of individual building materials are free to act without interfering with the appearance of the building as a whole.
One example of all these qualities may be found in Granitech ventilated walls, multilayered construction solutions permitting "dry" installation of cladding elements.
The benefits the system offers include reduction of the risk of cracking and detachment; easy installation; the possibility of maintenance and work on individual panels; protection of the wall structures from the action of atmospheric agents; elimination of thermal bridges and of surface condensation.
The architectural design of the façade cladding, can thus make use of a new generation skin capable of combining the technical performance resulting from the most advanced research in construction with the talent for composition characteristic of classic architecture.
Buildings can now dress themselves, lasting longer and forming compositions which play with the effects of full and empty volumes, with the chiaroscuro effects of light and dark and graphics: in short, the ventilated wall is a contemporary principle of construction which ensures the continuity of the history of architecture.
Contact for informations: www.granitech.com | <urn:uuid:f6a76e67-b3e4-4a2b-8b7d-4ce82c02b210> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.floornature.com/mood/ventilated-facades-or-walls-and-cladding-5655/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.914059 | 535 | 2.65625 | 3 |
GS Editor Software
- EMacs V3.11c
- A full-featured text and Unix editor for the GS. Creates an
executable file to run. On-line documentation. Use 'GSCII+' to decode.
May require 'ShrinkIt.GS' to expand. Runs on GS/OS under ProDOS 16.
- Text Reader
- A program to read and edit text files. Use 'GSCII+' to decode. May
require 'ShrinkIt GS' to expand. Runs on GS/OS under ProDOS 16.
- HTML Editor for HyperCard GS (by Geoff Weiss)
- Now you can check your HTML documents before putting them online.
This program helps you find errors and promotes use of good html for
compatibility with all of the popular browsers in use today. Use 'Shrink
It GS' to expand. Runs on GS/OS under ProDOS 16. Requires HyperCard GS.
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Non-Profit Highspeed Access | <urn:uuid:47f8f558-3820-48f6-9664-d22f4ac97127> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | http://www.chebucto.ns.ca/Services/PDA/AppleGSEditors.shtml | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882573399.40/warc/CC-MAIN-20220818185216-20220818215216-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.716066 | 322 | 1.671875 | 2 |
Oracle HRMS Interview Questions and Answers
by sonia, on May 24, 2017 3:57:37 PM
Q1.What are basic setups of oracle HRMS?
Ans: In oracle HRMS there are so many modules like Core HR, Payroll, Self Service HR, Oracle learning management, iRecruitment, Time and Labour, Compensation Work bench, Oracle Advanced Benefits, Performance Management System etc., Core HR and System Administrator are the Heart of Oracle HRMS.
All basic set ups will do in Core HR with the help of System Administrator.
In system administrator we will create all the Users and Responsibilities, Flex fields, Profile values etc., In core HR we will create Organizations, Locations, Jobs, Positions, Grades, Organization Hierarchy, position Hierarchy, We will create all the employees also. These are the Basic setups in HRMS.
Q2. What is the difference between a Job and a Position?
Ans: Job is general one, whereas Position is specific term to its role and responsibilities.
JOB: MANAGER (generic term), SOFTWARE DEVELOPER
POSITION: Finance Manager, HR Manager, Junior SOFTWARE ENGINEER, (this is position which is specific to the role to be played.
Q3. What are the difference between extra information type (EIT) and special information type (SIT)?
Ans: EIT and SIT Both are provided by Oracle to Capture Extra Information. Basic differences would be EIT is similar like a DFF and also defined using DFF Definition Screen. SIT is KFF and defined using Personal Analysis KFF Definition screen.
SIT generally used at Person Level, EIT can be defined at PERSON, ASSIGNMENT, CONTACT, ELEMENT, LOCATION and JOB LEVEL.
There are 2 columns start_date_active and end_date_active in SIT while no such columns are there in EIT.
ORACLE Apps HRMS Interview Questions
Q4. Tell me the name of important Key Flex-Fields (KFFs) in Oracle HRMS?
Ans: Job KFF,
People Group KFF,
Cost Allocation KFF,
Q5. List of some Important Tables in HRMS.
Q6. What is the difference between both SECURED VIEWS and NON SECURED VIEWS?
- Secured views display information only for the current period.
- Unsecured views is used to get the information from the entire rows.
Q7. Define APIs and use in Oracle HRMS?
Ans: API’s are used in HR to insert the data into the Base tables. As it’s very secured system, the user does not have the facility to copy the data directly into the Base tables. When we write the inbound interfaces / use WebAdI, the systems will use the APIs to store the data into system. The API are published by oracle with number of parameters. The different types of parameters are IN / INOUT / OUT of these parameters few are mandatory, without which the process won’t complete. Generally when we use API we give data FOR: Object Version Number, Effective Date and P_Validate
HR_EMOYEE_api example: hr_employee_api.create_employee
hr_organization_api Example: hr_organization_api.create_organization
Q8. What are processing types of element?
Ans: Elements are nothing but the components of the salary.
For Example: Basic Salary, House Allowance, Transport Earning, Bonus, Loan Recovery etc.
There are 2 types of Processing
1. Recurring: if an entry of this element applies in every period until the entry is ended
2. Non Recurring: if an entry applies in one pay period only.
Q9. What are termination roles of an element?
Termination Rules of an Element:
- Actual Termination: For a nonrecurring element, select ActualTermination if you want the entries to close down at the end of the pay period in which the employee leaves.
- Final close: if you want the entries to stay open beyond the employee’s leaving date so that you can continue to pay the employee.
- The Last Standard Process date defaults to the last day of the pay period in which the employee is terminated, but you can set it to a later period when you terminate an employee.
Q10. What is a security profile?
Ans: Security profile provides more security within BG. It helps in determining what users have access to what data. The levels where you can have security profile are: Organization Position Payroll Supervisor User specific: you can restrict / give permission to any user you can also have Custom security
Q11. What is a security profile in HRMS?
Ans: Need to have: consolidation set payroll employees should be attached to payroll balance pay methods required elements and run the process ? payroll run ? do correct in case there is change.
Q12. What is the difference between rehire and reverse-termination?
Ans: So the person will have a new service record but the personal details might remain the same? When an employee is terminated as per the process or by mistake and then there is a requirement to call back the employee immediately after termination, is known as reverse termination .It means you reverse the process and retain the employee ?When you reverse terminate the process the termination details are cleared and his employment details continues with the same assignments and with the same service period.
Q13. How many key flex fields in HRMS?
Ans: Let me brief about HRMS first: HRMS includes Payroll, but we have Payroll as a separate application when query KFFs. There are 10 KFFs in HRMS.1. Job KFF2. Position KFF3. Grade KFF4. Competence KFF (The above four KFFs are part Human Resources application)
Q14. How do you define B.G?
Ans: By default “Setup Business Group” available in the system. This BG info visible to all the employees, to represent a single Unit.Hence in order to make partition on the Employee data (create a separate Group) we need to create new BG. On the whole defining.
Q15. What is Retro Pay in Oracle Payroll? How many types of Retro Pays are available?
Ans: Retro Pay is a payment made for an event of past. Retro Pay stands for some old Payment due for the employee. This is used for Back Dated Salary Increments. There are four ways. 1. Retro Pay by Run 2.Retro Pay by Aggregate 3.Retro Pay by Element 4.Enhanced
Q16. How many types of payrolls are there?
Ans: Two types1. Regular pay 2. Quick pay.
Q17. How do you declare bonus of an employee in Oracle HRMS Payroll?
Ans: You can define one element (earnings) and use it to pay Bonus. Declaration is based on the functional inputs, suppose company wants to pay Bonus along with January Salary in Every Year, you can write the formulas accordingly. Cheers
Q18. What are the tools used with Oracle HRMS?
Ans: Oracle Reports, Discoverer, Standard seeded reports, View/List option of the menu – output could be exported in word/excel, WebADI etc.
Q19. What are the advantages of Oracle HRMS over PeopleSoft HRMS?
Ans: Oracle HRMS is more secured than People Soft HRMS.
Q20. How people management is achieved using Oracle HRMS?
How is gross pay elements defined in Oracle HRMS?
Q21. What are the reports available with Oracle HRMS?
Ans: Absences Report Assignment Status Report Current and Projected Progression Point Values Report Element Link Details Report Employee Increment Results Report Employee Movements Report Employee Summary Report Full Personal Details Report Set Full Applicant Details.
Q22. How Oracle HRMS helps in Budgeting and Costing?
Ans: You can set up budgets for non-monetary measures such as headcount or full-time equivalent. When you enter employee assignments to define the work an employee does for your enterprise, you can specify the value of the assignment towards these budgets.
Q23. What are the advantages achieved by an organization by using Oracle HRMS?
Ans: Remember the pyramid kind structure: People, WS and Compensation benefits with Assignments being the basis. This model is both flexible and adaptable. It is flexible, so that you can reflect the needs of different companies
Q24. What is advanced benefits module in Oracle HRMS?
Ans: Oracle Advanced Benefits (OAB) takes care of the management of Benefits Administration part.? it has very advanced features like Life Event Triggering / Processing, ? FSA administration, Reimbursement processing, Communications relating to Benefits etc.
Q25. What are the modules available in Oracle HRMS?
Ans: Core HRPayroll (Includes Standard Benefits) Adavnced Benefits (OAB) Talent Management (Performance Management) Oracle Time and Labor (OTL) Oracle Learning Management (OLM) iRecruitmentSelf Services HR (SSHR).
Q26. What are the vital features of Oracle HRMS?
Ans: Vital features are: People, Assignment, Work Structure, Compensation and Benefits.
Q27. How is new reports created in Oracle HRMS?
Ans: Discoverer, BI Reports, Copy existing report and register with different name.
Q28. What are the steps involved in implementation of Oracle HRMS?
Ans: Following are the steps to implement Oracle HRMS, — Define Key Flex fields– Define Descriptive Flex fields– Define Business Group– Set required Profile Options– Define Location– Define Organization– Define Grades– Define Jobs– Define Positions
Q29. What are the key flex fields present in Oracle HRMS?
Ans: 1. Job2. Position 3. Grade 4. People Group 5. Cost Allocation6. Competence7. Bank Details 8. Soft Coded 9. Personal Analysis crieteria10. Collective Agreement.
Q30. What is date tracking, how it is used in HRMS ?
Ans: Date tracking is a feature in Oracle HRMS esp with all tables whose name send with _F eg:per_all_people_f .Now what happens here is we cannot purge a record .
Q31. What are the key tables used in HRMS?
Ans: There are many tables used in HRMS. I have listed some tables. PER_ALL_PEOPLE_FPER_ALL_ASSIGNMENTS_FHR_ALL_ORGANIZATIONS_UNITSPER_LOCATIONS_AL
Q32. What is costing?
Recording the costs of an assignment for accounting or reporting purposes, Using Oracle Payroll, you can calculate and transfer costing information to your general ledger and into systems for project management or labor distribution.
Q33. What are 2 modes of date track in Oracle APPS?
Ans: Answer)There are two Date Track modes are as follow:
Q34. Can we delete an employee forever? How?
Ans: Use ?Delete personal record? form from front end. But employee should not be a application user (end date the username before delete) and should not be having payroll run data.
Q35. Can a job have multiple positions?
Ans: Job is generic. Yes a job can have multiple positions.
Q36. Can you call PL/SQL Package functions from within a Fast Formula?
Ans: Yes you can
- How do we do this?
Q37. Can we want to pass a parameter PAYROLL_ID to this external PL/SQL Function, how do we do it?
Ans: The “Define Function” screen has a button named “Context Usage”. This button opens up a window in which you can register the parameters.
Q38. How do you debug a Fast Formula?
Ans: You can create a message variable in Fast Formula.
This message variable must also be registered as a Formula Result (In “Formula Result Rule” window).
Q39. What are the various levels where you can Set up Payroll Costing Accounts? Which levels take the highest precedence?
Ans: Element Entry - Highest
Assignment - Second Highest
Organization - Third Highest
Element Link - Fourth Highest
Payroll - Fifth Highest
Q40. Technically speaking, how do you know from tables that an Employee has been terminated?
- The Person_Type_ID in PER_PERSON_TYPE_USAGES_F will correspond to System Person Type EX_EMP.
- A record gets created in table PER_PERIODS_OF_SERVICE with Actual_Termination_date being not null.
Q41. How can you make Employee Number generation Automated based on business rule etc?
Ans: Use Fast Formula.
Q42. What is the difference between per_people_f and per_all_people_f?
Ans: PER_PEOPLE_F is a secured view on top of PER_ALL_PEOPLE_F. The secure view uses an API hr_security.show_person. This API internally checks for an entry in table PER_PERSON_LIST for the logged in person’s security profile. A concurrent program named “Security List Maintenance program” will insert records in PER_PERSON_LIST.
Q43. If you do personalization at both FUNCTION level and Responsibility level, which personalization has higher precedence?
Ans: Responsibility level. Responsibility level will override FUNCTION level personalization’s.
Q44. Say you have done a lot of Personalization’s to Self Service Screens. But all these Personalization’s were done in DEVELOPMENT environment. How will you migrate these personalization’s to PRODUCTION environment?
Ans: Before 11.5.7…Use AKLOAD
This is a java program given by Oracle. This is the only way you can script it.
In DEV you will do AKLOAD DOWNLOAD ( & other parameters)
In PRD you will do AKLOAD UPLOAD ( & other parameters)
On or after 11.5.10 Use responsibility “Functional Administrator”, then click
on Personalization Tab, and then click on Import/Export.
Next select the documents to be exported.
Go to the UNIX box and tar the personalization’s into a .tar file.
On the Production environment unzip this tar file in location as entered in profile “FND: Personalization Document Root Path”.
Setting up of this profile is mandatory or else Oracle Framework wouldn’t know where to search for the files to be imported.
Q45. How to restrict iRecruitment external visitors to access only responsibilities on the external server?
Ans: Set the Server Trust Level for the server to External, Set the Trust Level of the iRecruitment external responsibilities to External too.
Q46. Is SSHR a dependency for iRecruitment?
Ans: iRecruitment has no dependence on SSHR.
Q47. Does iRecruitment support “Candidate Qualifying Questionnaires” where the candidate must answer vacancy-specific questions correctly prior to submitting an application?
Ans: iRecruitment currently does not support this function, For now this can be achieved by having a set of simple questions using flexfield to get those responses and a user hook to validate them as part of the apply process.
Q48. Do we track vacancy history?
Ans: iRecruitment does not track changes to the vacancy. If changes to a field are to be traced use the Audit capability in APPs.
Q49. Ensuring that Costing Information can be provided.
Ans: On completion of a payroll run you may need to distribute the associated costs across particular cost centres. Oracle supports this using the Cost Analysis module.
Q50. Can you run payroll processes and reports multi-lingually?
Ans: Payroll processes and reports are always submitted and always run in the local language only. This means that US and UK payroll reports can only be run in English.
Q51. Can you call pl/sql package functions from within a Fast Formula?
Ans: Yes, It is done through Define Function screen in HR. In this screen we can register the pl/sql as “External Function” and reference it in Fast formula definition
Q52. If we want to pass a parameter PAYROLL_ID to this external pl/sql Function, how do we do it?
Ans: The “Define Function” screen has a button named “Context Usage”. It contains all those context variables that are available for that formula type, you can reference these variable in pl/sql package function as a parameter.
All context variables registered in function need to be in the same order as are defined in pl/sql package function. While calling the this function in fast formula, we dont pass context parameters.
Q53. How do you Debug a Fast Formula?
Ans: You can create a message variable in Fast Formula.This message variable must also be registered as a Formula Result( In “Formula Result Rule” window).
Q54. What are the various levels where you can Set up Payroll Costing Accounts?
Ans: Element Entry - Highest
Assignment - Second Highest
Organization - Third Highest
Element Link - Fourth Highest
Payroll - Fifth Highest
Q55. From which tables we can identify that an Employee has been terminated?
Ans: The Person_Type_ID in PER_PERSON_TYPE_USAGES_F will correspond to System Person Type EX_EMP. Record gets updated in table PER_PERIODS_OF_SERVICE with Actual_Termination_date being not null
Q56. How can you make Employee Number generation Automated based on business rule etc?
Ans: There is a Fast Formula where we can configure the logic to generate the employee number
Q57. What is the difference between per_people_f and per_all_people_f?
Ans: PER_PEOPLE_F is a secured view on top of PER_ALL_PEOPLE_F table. The secure view uses an API hr_security.show_person. This API internally checks for an entry in table PER_PERSON_LIST for the logged in person’s security profile.
Q58. If you do personalization at both FUNCTION level and Responsibility level, which personalization has higher precedence?
Ans: Responsibility level will override function level personalizations.
Q59. Can we delete a wrongly created employee?
Ans: To delete all records of a person: (Answer taken from Oracle Implementation Guide)
- Query the person in the Delete Person window and choose the Delete Person button.
If there is a contact for the person you are deleting, there are two possibilities:
- If the only information held about the contact is the basic person details entered in the Contacts window, then the record of the contact is deleted.
- If there is other information held about the contact (for example, assignment or applicant information), the contact is not deleted. However, the record of their relationship to the person you are removing from the system is deleted.
Q60. How to rehire a terminated employee after a certain time period.
- Set your effective date to the new hire date and query the ex-employee in the People window.
- The Hire Date field displays your effective date.
- Save your work.
Click here to read More About Oracle HRMS...
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Ibrahim Jaidah proud to play his part in history of Qatar
Sunday's design launch of Al Thumama Stadium – the sixth proposed 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar™ venue – was a proud moment for Doha-born architect Ibrahim M. Jaidah, one which he says hopes can spread understanding of Arab culture around the world.
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Qatari architect Ibrahim M. Jaidah has designed Al Thumama Stadium
In his interview with www.sc.qa he also expressed his delight at being a part of a historic moment in local and regional history.
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Already renowned throughout the region, he has made his mark on the landscape of his country through projects such as the Ministry of Interior building, the Fire Station Museum and the previous Qatar Foundation building, which is printed on the 100 QAR notes.
The design of Al Thumama Stadium is inspired by the gahfiya
Surroundings, he says, continue to inspire him.
"The fact that I grew up in Alhasra area at the heart of Doha has deeply influenced my works and designs," he continued.
"After my higher education journey in the UK and USA my curiosity brought me to exploring the depths of Qatari architecture and its details.
"As a result of that I felt responsible for adopting the Qatari design style in my works. I also worked on documenting Qatar's architecture through my book 'History of architecture in Qatar'."
Jaidah also said the Al Thumama Stadium project said was one of his greatest undertakings, but also likely to become the source of his greatest joy – taking him on a journey to his childhood.
"The biggest challenge in the design was how to merge the details of the traditional gahfiya with the modern design and construction style," he explained.
"We worked hard together with 13 partners to come up with the current design. During the design and conception phase, a lot of childhood memories came alive, remembering walking around the Aljasra area wearing our traditional cloths including thawb and gahfiya."
"During the design and conception phase, a lot of childhood memories came alive, remembering walking around the Aljasra area wearing our traditional cloths including thawb and gahfiya."
At the end of his interview, he concluded by thanking those that have given him his once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
"I am very grateful for giving me, the Arab and Qatari youth the opportunity to be part of Qatar's journey to host the World Cup. It's a unique platform to introduce Qatari and Arab skills to the world."
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- 1 What do you need to run a 3090?
- 2 How many watts does a i9 9900K Use?
- 3 What is the best motherboard for i9 10900K?
- 4 Which CPU is best for RTX 3090?
- 5 How much power does 10900K use?
- 6 Does i9 10900K have integrated graphics?
- 7 Is Z590 Compatible with i9 10900K?
- 8 What chipset is i9 10900K?
- 9 What will bottleneck a RTX 3090?
- 10 Can CPU affect FPS?
- 11 How many fans do you need for 3090?
- 12 How hot is 3090 Hot?
What do you need to run a 3090?
Power Consumption With a rated board TDP of 350W, it requires at least a 650W PSU with two 8-pin power connectors. System Suggestions Nvidia GeForce RTX 3090 is best suited for resolutions up to and including 3840×2160. We recommend a top-End Processor and at least 16GB of RAM for optimal performance.
How many watts does a i9 9900K Use?
Intel uses a number called the Thermal Design Power (TDP) to describe how much power their processors generate, with the i9 9900K rated at 95 watts. However, the amount of power it actually uses varies a lot, ranging from under 10 watts when idle to over 130 watts when running at full speed.
What is the best motherboard for i9 10900K?
Summary For i9 10900K Motherboard
|Best Overall Motherboard for i9 10900K||MSI MEG Z490 GODLIKE|
|Best Enthusiast Motherboard for i9 10900K||Gigabyte Z490 AORUS ELITE AC|
|Best Budget Motherboard for i9 10900K||MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Edge WiFi|
|Best ATX Motherboard for i9 10900K||ASUS Z490-E ROG STRIX GAMING|
•Oct 12, 2021
Which CPU is best for RTX 3090?
Best CPU for RTX 3090 at a glance:
- Intel Core i9-10900K.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800X.
- Intel Core i7-10700K.
- AMD Ryzen 9 5900X.
- Intel Core i9-9900K.
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600X.
- Intel Core i5-10600K.
- AMD Ryzen 9 3900X.
Oct 6, 2021
How much power does 10900K use?
Also, when we look at watts per core, on the 10900K we're looking at 26 W on a single core, just to get 5300 MHz, so no wonder it drops down to 15-19W per core very quickly. The processor runs down to 5000 MHz at 3 cores loaded, sitting at 81ºC.
Does i9 10900K have integrated graphics?
The Intel Core i9-10900K is a 10-core/20-thread CPU with an Intel UHD Graphics 630 integrated graphics processor (IGP) with a TDP of 125 watts, clocked to 3.7GHz at base.
Is Z590 Compatible with i9 10900K?
What chipsets are compatible with Intel Core i9-10900K? Intel Core i9-10900K is compatible with the LGA 1200 socket. There are eight mainstream chipsets that come with this socket; H410, B460, H470, H510, B560, H570, Z490, and Z590.
What chipset is i9 10900K?
Graphically, the Core i9-10900K uses the integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 chipset, which has a base frequency of 350 MHz and a dynamic frequency of 1.2 GHz. If you need even more performance, this processor is unlocked, which lets you overclock the processor over its maximum speed.
What will bottleneck a RTX 3090?
Sure, Intel Core i9-9900K will bottleneck the RTX 3090. It is the world's fastest processor producing a 5.00GHz boost clock with all cores' help. The potential for overclocking is admiring and perfect for this graphics card.
Can CPU affect FPS?
Can CPU affect FPS? The capability of your CPU will impact your FPS, however, the larger impact on FPS is made by your GPU. There needs to be a balance between your CPU and GPU so there isn't a bottleneck. Although a CPU won't make as large of an impact, having a good CPU is still very important.
How many fans do you need for 3090?
Why does RTX 3090 have 1 cooling fan while the least graphics card has 2 or 3 fans? – Quora.
How hot is 3090 Hot?
It's been like this with all of Nvidia's gpus since the 10 series. The cooler it runs the better – at the very least, it should be below the rated thermal limit, which is 83C, so still too hot, IMO, at 86C, after you removed the front and 2 side panels. | <urn:uuid:7de5c30d-64a4-4278-9c04-243c06bea676> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.ambrosiospa.com/does-10900k-bottleneck-3090/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.89009 | 1,098 | 1.664063 | 2 |
Volunteering can provide a healthy boost to your self-confidence, self-esteem, and life satisfaction. You are doing good for others and the community, which provides a natural sense of accomplishment. Your role as a volunteer can also give you a sense of pride and identity.
What is volunteerism and its benefits?
Volunteering allows you to connect to your community and make it a better place. … And volunteering is a two-way street: It can benefit you and your family as much as the cause you choose to help. Dedicating your time as a volunteer helps you make new friends, expand your network, and boost your social skills.
How does volunteer work benefit the community?
Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, especially if you are new to an area. It strengthens your ties to the community and broadens your support network, exposing you to people with common interests, neighborhood resources, and fun and fulfilling activities.
How does helping others benefit you?
Evidence shows that helping others can also benefit our own mental health and wellbeing. For example, it can reduce stress as well as improve mood, self-esteem and happiness. There are so many ways to help others as part of our everyday lives. Good deeds needn’t take much time or cost any money.
What benefit do you acquire in joining some community activities?
7 Benefits of Getting Involved in Your Community
- Meet new friends and business contacts who are outside of your normal circle. …
- Be connected to the pulse of what’s happening. …
- Be proactive. …
- Helping others feels good. …
- Get advice. …
- Seek professional development opportunities. …
- Find your passion.
What are two benefits of volunteering for the recipient the one who receives )?
– Decreases the risk of depression, especially in the elderly. – Increases social interaction and helps build a support system. – Gives a sense of purpose, which may be especially important for youth and the elderly. – Teaches valuable, marketable job skills.
What is the benefit of using volunteer students?
Through community service, students gain real-world experience and practice important habits like leadership, problem-solving, and time-management. Volunteering offers students the opportunity to apply their classroom learning to practical scenarios that have real implications.
How helping others will make the world better?
Improved happiness as a result of volunteering also leads to reduced depression, anxiety and other mental health issues. … Studies have shown that offering help has a stronger positive impact on mental health than if you are receiving help while creating a community environment that reduces feelings of isolation.
Why is doing service important?
Psychological benefits: Volunteering increases overall life satisfaction and helps you feel good about yourself because you are helping others. It can also help to decreases stress and ease depression.
Why is service to others important?
Helping others makes us happy and gives us endorphins. Serving others is good for our mental health, our emotional well-being, and our self-esteem. And the laws of the universe have shown time and time again that those who serve others are more successful themselves. | <urn:uuid:32e3d559-07eb-48de-bdbc-ac8748ec953d> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://inspiredphilanthropist.com/charity/best-answer-how-does-volunteering-benefit-an-individual.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.955556 | 657 | 3.140625 | 3 |
This paper examines conditions and pathways that explain variation in the adoption of renewable energy (RE) in Nigeria's 36 states based on a fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis. Using three analytical lenses proposed by the multi-level socio-technical theory (niches, regimes, and landscapes), we examine RE adoption in these states. While all three lenses explain variation to some extent, a combination of regime and landscape characteristics, enables states to overcome dependence on oil while triggering the adoption of RE. States with high income and a regime featuring institutions and coalitions supporting transitions establish themselves as pioneers. States with medium/low income and a regime characterised by a weak pro-RE political coalition support emerge as laggards. Hence we conclude that the role of the regime and particularly political actors therein, is central in energy transition processes among Nigerian states. This has implications for future transition attempts in Nigeria and developing (rentier) countries, generally.
- Fuzzy set
- Multi-level socio-technical theory
- Renewable energy
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment
- Environmental Science (miscellaneous)
- Social Sciences (miscellaneous) | <urn:uuid:3c420834-8621-483f-8702-5b82e356f068> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://researchportal.hw.ac.uk/en/publications/transitions-in-unlikely-places-exploring-the-conditions-for-renew | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.915129 | 251 | 1.507813 | 2 |
The Federal Trade Commission is investigating PayPal over possible "deceptive or unfair practices" related to its hugely popular person-to-person payments service, Venmo.
In a regulatory filing, PayPal reveals that it received a 'Civil Investigative Demand' from the FTC on 28 March asking for documents and answers to written questions on the Venmo service.
The filing does not give details on what the investigation relates to but PayPal says that it could face an enforcement action and/or consent orders, resulting in "substantial costs" from legal fees and fines.
In addition, any move by the regulator "could require us to change aspects of the manner in which we operate Venmo," says the filing.
Acquired by PayPal through its 2013 deal to buy Braintree, Venmo has proved a huge hit. This week it emerged that in the first quarter the P2P payments app saw its volumes grow 154% year-on-year to $3.2 billion. However, it is not a money-maker because transfers are free if made from debit cards and bank accounts. | <urn:uuid:00ff144f-3308-478a-b119-5386b7fcf360> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.finextra.com/newsarticle/28821/ftc-investigates-venmo-over-possible-deceptive-or-unfair-practices | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572089.53/warc/CC-MAIN-20220814234405-20220815024405-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.961256 | 220 | 1.6875 | 2 |
Governor Tom Vilsack and the nation’s other Democrat governors are recommending an economic plan they say would provide a “jolt” to the U.S. economy.The Democratic Governors want a “temporary” tax cut to spur consumer spending, a rebate that’d amount to three-hundred-75 dollars for every American wage earner, even those who don’t pay income taxes.He says the rebate checks sent out last summer didn’t go to Americans who earn so little they don’t pay federal income taxes. Vilsack says low income seniors need financial help, too.The Governors propose giving low-income elderly 300 dollars over the next six months to help them make ends meet. As for younger workers, Vilsack says the extension of unemployment benefits the President signed yesterday doesn’t do enough to help. Vilsack says job benefits should resume for the one-million Americans who lost their jobs at the beginning of the recession but have dropped off unemployment already. Vilsack is vice chair of the Democratic Governors’ Association.
You are here: / / Democrat governors present economic plan | <urn:uuid:a345611f-38ad-494c-b800-ac687a47502e> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.radioiowa.com/2003/01/10/democrat-governors-present-economic-plan/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.938624 | 239 | 1.671875 | 2 |
Indirect Model Reference Adaptive Control of First-Order System
This example shows how to design an indirect model reference adaptive control (MRAC) system for reference tracking. The plant is an unknown first-order system. The indirect MRAC controller estimates the plant parameters and implements an inversion-based controller to track a reference model.
First-Order Unknown Plant Model
The controlled plant is the following first-order dynamic system.
is the system state.
and are the unknown system parameters.
Given this unknown nonlinear system, the goal is to design a controller that enables the tracking of the following reference model.
is the reference model state.
is the reference signal provided by the user.
and are the reference model parameters.
The indirect MRAC controller uses an estimator model to compute and , which are estimates of the unknown system parameters and , respectively.
The compute the control action , the controller uses the feedforward gain and feedback gain .
The controller gains are derived from the reference model parameters ( and ) and estimated observer parameters ( and ).
For this example, the true reference model is as follows.
Specify the reference model parameters, assuming that the model output corresponds to state .
a = 1; b = 3; c = 1; d = 0;
This true model is unknown to the indirect MRAC controller. Instead, the controller uses an estimator model to estimate the unknown plant dynamics. During operation, the controller can adapt the parameters of this model to improve its estimate of the unknown system parameters.
Specify the initial estimator parameters.
ahat = 0; bhat = 1;
The goal of the controller is to track the performance of the reference model. Specify the parameters of the reference model.
am = -4; bm = 4;
Specify the initial condition of the plant.
x_0 = 0;
Specify the learning rates for updating the estimator model parameters.
gamma_a = 2; % ahat learning rate gamma_b = 2; % bhat learning rate
Open the Simulink model.
mdl = 'mracFirstOrder'; open_system(mdl)
In this model
The Actual Plant Model block implements the nominal model of the first-order unknown system.
The Reference Command block generates a reference signal.
The Model Reference Adaptive Control block outputs the control action u, which it derives from the using the estimator model.
While an MRAC controller can also estimate unknown disturbances in the controlled system, for this example there are no such disturbances. Instead, the goal of the controller is simply to estimate the parameters of the unknown plant model. For an example that estimates unknown disturbances using a direct MRAC controller, see Model Reference Adaptive Control of Aircraft Undergoing Wing Rock.
Simulate the model.
View the actual plant output and the reference signal. The controller is able to make the actual plant state track the reference signal closely.
The Model reference Adaptive Controller block is configured to output the parameters and of the estimator model using the
Bhat output ports, respectively.
Over time the controller adapts the values of the estimator parameters. With sufficient persistency of excitation in the reference signal, and converge to their true values of 1 and 3, respectively. | <urn:uuid:ba4570d1-cd7f-43ac-8d8b-dcf6149b7b0b> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://nl.mathworks.com/help/slcontrol/ug/indirect-model-reference-adaptive-control-of-first-order-system.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.717426 | 736 | 2.21875 | 2 |
Movies Way Back When: Flying A Folks Head South
By Betsy J. Green
In July 1916, Santa Barbara residents saw the following item in the local paper. “Fifty People Leave Santa Barbara Owing to Change at American Film … Changing their policy, ‘Flying A’ releases are five-reel pictures only,” announced the local paper.
I asked UCSB Prof. Dana Driskel for his insight. “The film industry was changing rapidly. Short films were out. Features were in … Unfortunately, this also meant that staff was being let go. Santa Barbara looked on uneasily as actors, directors and other artisans began to leave town in search of work … it was difficult for bit players, day laborers and other support staff to find work in Santa Barbara between jobs at ‘Flying A.’ In Los Angeles, support people could jump from studio to studio as jobs appeared. More and more ‘movie people’ began to leave for the south.” | <urn:uuid:0befdd38-e942-4ca5-9b44-ab4e522aa2fe> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.edhat.com/news/movies-way-back-when-flying-folks-head-south | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572089.53/warc/CC-MAIN-20220814234405-20220815024405-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.981946 | 211 | 2.53125 | 3 |
90 crows found dead, reason unknown, in Saitama, Japan
Ninety crows have been found dead on Thursday and Friday in two parks in Saitama Prefecture, health authorities said Saturday.
Authorities said 35 crows were found dead in Tokorozawa and another 55 were found in Iruma, Fuji TV reported.
At first, health officials suspected bird flu but tests proved negative. Also, there were no traces of poison or agrichemicals in the crows that were tested.
Prefectural health officials said there was very little food in any of the crows, indicating that they may have starved to death.
However, as a precaution, police and health authorities have urged people not to touch any dead birds.
Courtesy of japantoday.com | <urn:uuid:bdfbe8ca-3255-41c6-b86f-740bf960aecb> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://yamkin.wordpress.com/2018/01/13/90-crows-found-dead-reason-unknown-in-saitama-japan/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.984261 | 162 | 1.554688 | 2 |
It may be jarring to the Christian conscience to allow it to sink in that King David practiced all of the social evils listed in the heading above: polygamy, slavery, racial prejudice, and military conquest.¹ Carrying on in these seemingly abusive or destructive ways, at least by modern Western society’s standards, did not not annul the testimony of David that he would be a man after Jehovah’s own heart (I Samuel 13:14). God called Abraham His “friend” after he was long dead (Isaiah 41:8), yet the patriarch accepted and practiced some of the ills on this list, as so many other godly souls did in ancient times.
It may be tempting to believe that Western society has moved beyond these practices in recent decades through what might be called “social evolution”. The Mormon religion practiced and encouraged polygamy in America until it was outlawed over 100 years ago. Slavery has only been eradicated (or at least has gone under cover) from the Western world for a little over 150 years, and institutionalized racial supremacy for a little more than 50 years. Militant imperialism mostly faded away in the West as a result of the Second World War. Progressive humanism takes the credit for improvements in the fabric of society and in the national and international laws that allow men to live free from these threats and abuses, while at the same time accepting many other moral evils that are just as destructive, but more insidious.
However, there is no doubt in the mind of an instructed believer in Jesus that Christianity, not humanism, and not any other religion or belief system, was and is responsible for the change in the way modern civilized societies view these scourges. It is greatly to be regretted that many who organized themselves under the Christian banner, from Constantine and the Roman church, to the Mormon cult, to the Southern Baptist sect, championed or defended one or another of the ideas or ideologies in the list above during various periods of the Christian era. If anyone is in need of a brief refresher course in Christendom’s history, it was Constantine’s “conversion” in 312 A.D. that introduced the idea of employing carnal weapons of war² to conquer under the sign of the cross, purportedly seen by him in a vision. The Roman church continued that ideology through the centuries until it became politically expedient to use less violent means to their ends. Mormon polygamy has already been pointed out. And many in this century have likely forgotten that the raison d’être of the Southern Baptist Convention was the defense of slavery based on a faulty understanding of the scriptures. Of course, the racial prejudice and segregation that were integral to the institution of slavery in the Americas has died a very slow death in some segments of the Christian profession. Oh, the leavening effect of these and so many others of Satan’s devices that has permeated the “great house” of Christendom.³
Why did God allow these ideas and practices among His people of old, even among true saints, before Christ came? This article is too brief to cover this question in detail. In any case, we should be careful not to consider them as moral equivalents of each other across the board. We cannot but believe that polygamy was never in God’s plan for His people, for the practice originated among the early descendants of the rebel Cain, although the Law that Moses received from Jehovah in the establishment of the old covenant did not forbid it. The Law did restrict some of the worst abuses of polygamy (Deuteronomy 17:17 and 21:15) as it regulated the related practice of divorce, both of which were results of the selfish and lustful hearts of men. But perhaps God allowed this perversion to continue under regulation for the ultimate purpose of setting forth in stark relief the surpassing character of Christ’s and Christianity’s teaching on the dignity and worth of the woman. Matthew 19:3-9, I Corinthians 7 and 11:11-12, and I Peter 3:7 are abundantly clear as to the equality of rights enjoyed by male and female in the marriage relationship.
Slavery and servitude was regulated under the Law of Moses as well, but the practice predates the Law by centuries, no doubt. One who was really a “bondman” and not merely a “hired servant” (Leviticus 25:6) had no right to direct his own activities or live according to his own rules while under bondage. However, passages such as Exodus 21 give rules for the fair treatment of slaves, and in Deuteronomy 23:15-16, we find a refreshing provision that further distinguishes Old Testament slavery from the evil depths to which a “Christian” America descended, as epitomized in the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850. “Thou shalt not deliver unto his master the servant which is escaped from his master unto thee: he shall dwell with thee, even among you, in the place which he shall choose in one of thy gates, where it liketh him best: thou shalt not oppress him.”
Christians are instructed to be even more merciful toward those who serve them, as we find in passages like Ephesians 6:9 and Colossians 4:1. There is no thought here of holding a person for service against his or her will. The apostle Paul pleads with the godly Philemon for the elevation of his former slave (bondman) to a position of equality in Christ. So while God allowed slavery to be practiced in former times as an example to the believer that we are not our own to do as we please, but are rather the bondmen of Christ (I Corinthians 7:22), He clearly puts servitude and employment on a much higher and more dignified plane in Christianity.
Racial prejudice was used by Jehovah, in commandments found in the Law, to make a clear distinction between Israel (whom He had chosen for His own pleasure) and the ungodly, idolatrous nations around them (e.g.: Deuteronomy 23:3). Of course, there are many examples of individuals from those nations that believed the living and true God. But that racial distinction that Jehovah made has as one of its purposes to teach believers now that there is a “racial” distinction between those who are born again and have received “justification of life” (Romans 5:18; I John 5:1-4), and those who are still by nature the “children of wrath”. Now under the blessing of the teaching of Christianity, as to the racial differences of ethnic heritage and skin tone, “there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all” (Colossians 3:11).
As to the use of military power to conquer or subjugate other peoples, or even in defense of a land once conquered thus, there is no pattern nor command in all of the New Testament that indicates this is meant to be the place of a believer in Christ. The Christian’s portion is heavenly, and we “wrestle not against flesh and blood”, but with spiritual weapons against (quite literally) spiritual enemies. God had His purposes in using His saints of old in earthly warfare, both for the judgment of His enemies (the ungodly nations), and to prefigure the heavenly warfare that the Christian ought to be fighting with all courage and faithfulness (Ephesians 6:10-18). The very character and nature of Christianity is contrary to the use of force to obtain or maintain temporal benefits, and scriptural texts to that effect are almost too numerous to list (e.g.: John 18:36; I Thessalonians 5:15; Hebrews 12:14; etc.).
The shining light of Christianity, as taught by the Lord Jesus Christ and His apostles, brings with it blessing, peace, and hope wherever and whenever it has been received and practiced in faith. Where it has been perverted or corrupted by the mind of the flesh in man, there has been sorrow and misery. Where that light has been violently extinguished, or where it has not yet reached, it is surely by the sovereign goodness of God’s restraining hand that nations and cultures have not succeeded in destroying themselves.
¹ I Chronicles 14:3; 18:9-13
² See II Corinthians 10:4
³ See Matthew 13:33 and II Timothy 2:20 | <urn:uuid:546c4edc-1792-42b5-8a24-3e6cdc69e278> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://greaterriches.com/2018/07/13/polygamy-slavery-racial-prejudice-and-military-conquest-then-and-now/?like_comment=195&_wpnonce=2cdcef5cb7 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.968129 | 1,777 | 2.296875 | 2 |
“Imagine a world in which every single person on the planet given free access to the sum of all human knowledge” – Jimmy Wales.
As we are, moving to the digital world. The internet turned into one of the most valuable things in our life. It is a wireless global networking connection with modern communication as well as a human-friendly environment.
Internet applied for several things such as communication, education, shopping, networks, and marketings which takes the business to the next level. Internet advertising is considered an essential feature for accomplishing a desire in the business sector. The marketing strategies used in advertising are utilizing online traffic and send corresponding ads to the particular customer.
There are varieties of advertising tools used to boost online business, such as Search Engine Marketing, Email Marketing, Social Media Ads, Native Advertising, Video Advertising, Mobile Advertising, Blogging, Facebook, and Instagram.
All Entrepreneurs and marketers must use the internet modern age of advertising tools that will enhance the clients base, improve marketing flow, and helps you to increase your profit. Online advertising is mainly to expand business on a large scale. The crucial for the success of an online business are Global Reach, Target Audience, Engage your customers, Access to Data, Fast and Easy.
Benefits of Internet Advertising:
- Target Marketing
- Message customizing
- Interactive capabilities
- Data Access
- Sales potential
- Supplement to IMC
Digital marketing is a much trouble-free, affordable, and trackable form of marketing in the present world. By fostering a culture of Entrepreneurship ideas to be independent and make their business unique. It will make you intelligent, save time, and save money. | <urn:uuid:9277b356-6b89-49f8-aa90-553e36b1815b> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://growthcentralvc.com/internet-ads-major-tools/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.91728 | 354 | 2.046875 | 2 |
Alternative Fuels: Propane, Electricity, Ammonia and Liquid Nitrogen
Yesterday we discussed two of the most popular alternative fuels – biodiesel and alcohol fuel. As we already became familiar, both are efficient not only in ecological terms, but also in economical ones. Given that the concerns around the global warming are escalating, I presume that in the future, there will be a great necessity for vehicles which emit less CO2 or are with zero emissions. Hence, this leads to the though that even more alternative ways for propulsion are going to arise in the near future. As we all can see, even now on the market, there is a big expansion of electric vehicles and hybrid ones. In addition, the brands are competing in the development of vehicles which are both fuel efficient and ecologically preserving.
First, let's review one popular alternative fuel: propane. It is a compressed natural gas which almost everybody has used in their homes. However, it is popular as an alternative fuel too. It is a by-product of natural gas processing and petroleum refining. The process is called cracking. What is commonly used as vehicle fuel is actually a mixture of propane and butane, or more familiar as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG or LP gas). It is not necessary to state the environmental benefits of its use and the fuel efficiency it delivers for they are already very well known. Take a look at some models, which are using this type of fuel:
Extremely utilized way of alternative vehicle propulsion is through the means of electricity. The good news is that although the EVs were very popular more than hundred years ago, their development now flourishes. Moreover, it seems that the automotive world is in a stage of competition. The different brands are investing nowadays more than ever in the development of technologies, using electricity as alternative fuel. The EVs use electricity which is stored in battery in the car and don't emit CO2. Although, they aren't as fast as their gasoline powered rivals, they are considered perfect for city driving. Some of the electric vehicles, already on the market:
Did you know that ammonia can be used as fuel? In fact, ammonia has been proposed as a practical alternative to fossil fuel for internal combustion engines back in the beginning of the last century. In addition, it can be successfully used in already existing vehicles, which engines need only slight modification. Ammonia is beneficial in terms of zero emissions and economical efficiency.
Liquid nitrogen is another type of emissionless alternative fuel. Liquid nitrogen vehicles are comparable in many ways to the electric vehicles. However, they use liquid nitrogen to store the energy instead of batteries as it is in the case of EVs. They have several advantages that should be mentioned. First of all, they can be powered through the electrical grid (which contributes to their eco-friendliness). Secondly, there wouldn't be any transportation of the fuel, since the power is delivered from the electrical grid. This is also economically viable. Next, the maintenance is also at low costs. At last but not least, the liquid nitrogen vehicles don't have the degradation problems of the battery systems.
To sum up there are many different types of alternative fuels and nowadays even more are developed and considered for commercial use. Of course the main reason for this expansion of research is the negative environmental impact which the gasoline powered vehicles are causing, due to their high levels of CO2 emissions in the atmosphere. Undoubtedly, in the near future the commercial use of electric cars or hybrid ones won't be considered as extravagancy but as a high level of environmental awareness. | <urn:uuid:4e0f03b9-b2e1-47db-ae5f-7a7f43c24157> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.automobilesreview.com/auto-news/alternative-fuels-propane-electricity-ammonia-liquid-nitrogen/42881/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.973183 | 724 | 3.0625 | 3 |
Jim Hastings, Advisory Council Vice Chair and Broker/Owner of Hastings Brokerage, tells us how members can supplement their income through diversification when REO inventories are low. Read on to see which three services he suggests you add to your portfolio today.
A short sale refers to the sale of a real estate asset in which the net proceeds from selling the property will fall short of the debts secured by liens against the property. If all lien holders agree to accept less than the amount owed on the debt, a short sale of the property can be completed.
Borrowers need to contact their servicer and ask about a short sale if they owe more on their home than it is worth, also known as being upside down. In some circumstances, the servicer will incentivize the borrower to complete a short sale. Borrowers must always ask their servicer before considering the short sale option. If the home is sold for a loss the servicer will issue the borrower a 1099c (Cancellation of Debt).
The borrower needs to consult with a tax accountant to find out if there are other opportunities available to them in order to avoid paying taxes from a 1099c. If there are additional loans behind the first loan, they may be able to settle for less than the current balance. The borrower needs to ask each servicer for a settlement offer as needed, especially when the borrower is upside down.
Cash for Keys
When assigned a property from a seller, the first thing to do is check occupancy. Try to get as much information from the occupant as possible, so you can report it back to the seller. If you can’t make contact with the occupant, post your contact information on the front door along with any paperwork from the seller, a process often called “Knowing Your Options.”
If you do make contact with the occupant, ask them for their names (anyone living in the home that is 18 or over), their phone number(s), if they have an active lease, or if they are tenants. Also ask if they are currently active in the military, if they are using Section 8, if they have any plans to move out, etc.
Report any information gathered back to the seller. The seller will then determine the course of action they want to pursue and if they want to offer the occupants cash for keys. If they want to move forward with cash for keys, they will decide how much they want to offer the occupants and a proposed vacate date for the occupants to move out.
Making the Offer
When a seller informs you that they want to offer the occupant cash for keys, contact the occupant and let them know they are being offered relocation assistance. At this time, also inform the occupant that if they accept the offer, funds will not be issued until the vacate date. Notify the occupant that the property must be in broom-swept condition, free from vandalism, and all belongings must be removed from the property.
Make it clear that they will not get the money until the property passes inspection, as some occupants will leave items behind and claim they came with the house. If an occupant asks if they can take any appliances, lighting fixtures, etc., notify the seller immediately and ask them if it would be okay for the occupant to take any of the items in question.
Most of the time, an occupant will ask for more money and/or a longer vacate date, which you would have to report back to the seller as the occupant’s counteroffer. You will then negotiate back and forth between the occupant and the seller until a deal has been reached.
Once a deal has been accepted by both parties involved, send the appropriate cash for keys paperwork for the occupant(s) to sign, and the seller usually has their own paperwork that they want to be signed. Have the occupants sign the paperwork, and then send it back to the seller for approval. Once the seller approves it, they usually will send you the check or have you advance the funds for which they will reimburse you.
If an occupant is asking for more money or a longer vacate date than the seller is willing to give, the seller will usually cancel the cash for keys offer altogether and proceed with the eviction. Some sellers have a set amount they offer and are not willing to negotiate.
Issuing the Check
Once you receive the check from the seller, inform the occupants that you have the check in-hand and ask if they want to schedule the walkthrough for the agreed upon vacate date. Typically, they will set a time and date for the inspection, but some will wait to set up the walkthrough until closer the to vacate date.
After you inspect the property and it clears the inspection, issue the check to the occupants and then rekey the home and secure it. Sometimes, an occupant is almost moved out, but they need a bit more time to completely vacate the home. Ask the occupant how much longer they need to fully move out of the house, then ask the seller if you can grant an extension and how much more time they are willing to give the occupants.
If an occupant fails to vacate completely or in a timely manner, the seller will often cancel the offer and proceed with the eviction. The eviction attorney will then go through the courts to complete a judge-ordered lockout.
Agents are typically not involved in deed-in-lieu (DIL) negotiations. DILs are usually negotiated and agreed upon between the seller and the occupant before a property is assigned to you, the agent.
A deed-in-lieu of foreclosure is a deed instrument in which the borrower conveys all interest in a real property to the servicer/lender to satisfy a loan that is in default on order to avoid foreclosure proceedings. In some circumstances, the servicer will incentivize the borrower to complete a DIL, and the borrower must ask the servicer about this option.
When you receive a property as part of a DIL, go out to the property to inspect it, confirm occupancy, and gather occupant information. The seller typically informs you of the former owner’s name and contact information upfront. Inform the occupant that the property has been assigned to you and that we will be inspecting it when they vacate in order to complete the DIL agreed upon.
For DIL properties, sellers usually inform agents upfront if the occupants have accepted the DIL and notify them of the scheduled vacate date. The seller will usually tell the occupants upfront that the property must be in broom-swept condition, free from vandalism, and all belongings must be removed from the home.
In certain cases, you may be informed that the occupants received some funds upfront for signing (usually half of the amount) and that they will receive the rest of the funds as soon as they vacate the home. When the vacate date is near, the seller sends the check to you so that you can complete the inspection and transaction. Once you receive the check, inform the occupants that you have the check in hand and ask them if they want to schedule the walkthrough for the agreed upon vacate date.
Once you inspect the property and it clears the inspection, issue the check to the occupants and then rekey the home and secure it. You should also send date-stamped photos to the seller. | <urn:uuid:93a3c634-a514-4fa5-8da7-8867de59caac> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://fivestarforce.com/best-practices/diversifying-when-reo-inventory-is-low/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.955057 | 1,520 | 1.5625 | 2 |
There are currently 16 names in this directory beginning with the letter B.
Babbling is a term used to refer to the sounds that an infant produces in the process of language acquisition. These sounds are generally characterized by consonant/vowel (CV) syllabic structures. It is the stage in which a child begins to experiment with his/her vocal apparatus.
A back-formation is a type of lexical expansion in which a new word (neologism) is created. This occurs when a word which is mistaken as morphologically complex (consists of more than one morpheme) and sounds which imitate an existing affix are removed, yielding a new word. Most examples in Standard American English consist of a noun that ends in the sound similar to 'er', e.g., writer, sailor, which is deleted, resulting in a verb (write, sail). However, the resulting 'verbs' are actually new words since the 'er' suffix is actually part of the root. Examples: burgle from burglar, edit from editor
Behaviorism is a psychological approach which asserts that cognitive development is accomplished through repeated exposure to external stimuli, which builds upon an otherwise 'blank slate'. For example, behaviorist theory contends that language acquisition occurs through observation, imitation and internalization of competent speakers' language use. In language acquisition, this view contrasts with Universal Grammar.
Benefactive case marks a noun phrase that receives or benefits from the result of the action of a verb. In Standard American English, the benefactive is often embedded in a prepositional phrase usually headed by the preposition 'for'. ex: Superman opened the door 'for' Lois. Other languages use affixation to mark benefactive case such as Quechua and Basque.
The term bi-labial refers to the manner of articulation in which the lips come together to produce a sound. ex: In Standard English /p, b, m/
The term bilateral is used to describe the contrast of features in sets of phonemes. In English, /t/ and /d/ are in bilateral opposition, since these are the only phones in the phonemic inventory that are [alveolar, plosive] and only contrast in voicing.
The process by which a child acquires two languages simultaneously or sequentially, generally before puberty and is equally proficient in both.
A blend is a type of word formation in which syllables from two or more words are joined together. ex: motel from 'motor' and 'hotel'
The term bootstrapping most commonly refers to a process in language acquisition in which a child applies existing linguistic knowledge to learning new language forms. ex: knowing the transitive features of a verb will aid the child in creating sentence structures.
borrowed word or borrowings
A borrowing is a lexical item (word) from one language that becomes part of another. ex: 'pizza' from Italian into English.
This term refers to the processing of language beginning with the smallest components to larger, e.g., features, phonemes, syllables, words, phrases.
A bound morpheme is generally an affix, or in some languages, a root that cannot stand on its own but must be attached to another morpheme. Examples in Standard English include affixes such as 'un' in 'uncertain' and roots such as 'cran' in 'cranberry.'
In syntax, a bound pronoun must be co-indexed with its antecedent alone and adhere to syntactic locality constraints. Reflexive pronouns are generally bound in Standard American English. Example: Rhodaᵢ loves herselfᵢ. In this example, 'herself' can only be co-indexed with, or refer to 'Rhoda'.
Breathy voice is a type of phonation in which the vocal chords are held slightly more apart than in normal speech, such that more air passes through the articulators. English speakers sometimes produce this sound when articulating /h/ in between two vowels ex: 'rehab.' In some languages such as Hindi, the feature 'breathy voice' is contrastive, meaning that both /h/ and /ɦ/ (the diacritic symbol for breathy voice) are perceived as two different sounds.
In semantics broadening refers to when the precise meaning of a word changes over time and develops a broader meaning. ex: 'dog' (was once a specific breed) now means 'canine' (a broader term). | <urn:uuid:ae4d32cd-6531-4fb4-bd8f-7858cdbf06a7> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | http://www.linguisticsnetwork.com/glossary/?name_directory_startswith=B | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.92917 | 993 | 4.125 | 4 |
The State Bank of India is a multinational public sector bank. It is headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra. The State Bank of India descends from the Bank of Calcutta which was founded in 1806. In the recent times, it has taken a lead in the banking services. It provides a lot of banking services, not only to the privileged but to the non-privileged as well. It is also the largest bank in India.
If you have been looking for the customer care number of the State Bank of India or their bank balance enquiry number with the help of a missed call or an SMS, we have got it covered for you in this article.
SBI Bank Balance Enquiry Number
Being able to check one’s bank balance has been made relatively very easy. You just need to have your mobile phone or ‘smart’ phones as they are called. Along with this, you need to make sure that your number is registered with the State Bank of India and if it is linked with your account.
If you were looking for ways to know your balance, then there are two ways listed below.
Missed Call and SMS in State Bank of India
You can easily check balance in your account by giving a missed call on the number, 09223866666. After giving a missed call on this number, you will soon receive a message from the bank regarding your available balance in the bank account of the State Bank of India.
For SBI account mini statement just type a text message MSTMT on your mobile and send it to 09223866666. After that you will receive a mini statement message of your last 5 transaction.
Other than this, there is another way of checking your balance, you can also send an SMS on 09223488888. The format for the message should be, REG <space> your account number. After sending a message, you will get a reply which will tell you the available balance in your account.
State Bank of India Customer Care Toll-Free Number
In case, you have further enquiries about anything related to your bank account, you can always call up the customer care service number which is 1800-425-3800. This number is toll-free. You can call this number to solve all your problems and queries and to speak to their customer care executive.
To know about the bank further, you can visit their website, which is https://www.onlinesbi.com/
Balance Check with Internet Banking
You can easily check your balance through SBI Internet banking, if you have already registered for it .Click on the link and login in your account to check account balance easily .Visit https://retail.onlinesbi.com/mretail/login.htm
Hence, this article must have been helpful for you to gather information regarding the customer care number, bank balance enquiry number and other important details. | <urn:uuid:25e6c1ad-447a-49bc-b1d8-31e842a01520> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://www.worldblaze.in/sbi-bank-balance-enquiry-number/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572221.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20220816060335-20220816090335-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.943109 | 598 | 1.742188 | 2 |
Leasing a car isn’t for everyone.
But it might work for you if you don’t want to stick with the same car for more than a couple years. And if you like the idea of consistently driving a new vehicle that has the latest bells and whistles.
Though you’ll never really own the car, you can generally forget about the cost of maintenance repairs and the monthly payment is cheaper than if you had a loan on the same car.
But leasing can come with certain restrictions and it might not be the best option for you.
Vehicle cost aside, you’ll also want to consider what types of auto insurance you’ll need to buy when leasing. And because you don’t own the car that might change the type of insurance you need.
Here’s how to make sure you get the right coverage when you’re leasing.
How does leasing work?
If you buy a car, you pay for the cost of the vehicle and then it’s yours to keep. You can take out a loan to help cover the expenses. And then pay off the auto loan with monthly payments over several years. The lender officially owns the car until you pay off the loan, at which point it will send you the title.
On the other hand, leasing is more like renting. In exchange for borrowing the vehicle, you agree to pay the dealership the difference between what the car is worth today and what it will be worth when you return it (i.e. the deprecation).
You’ll similarly make monthly payments during the lease. You have the option to buy the car when the lease is up. You also might wind up owing extra money at the end of the lease if you drove more than the agreed-upon miles or the vehicle is in poor condition.
The pros and cons of leasing
There are benefits and drawbacks to consider before signing up for a lease.
On the upside:
- Your monthly payments are often lower with a lease than a loan for the same car.
- You get to have a brand new car that you might not be able to afford to purchase.
- A warranty covers the car during the entire lease.
- There’s no pressure on you to sell the vehicle later.
The drawbacks can include:
- You won’t own the car at the end of the lease and will continually be making monthly payments if you start another lease.
- You’re paying for the period when depreciation is at its highest.
The first year the car loses about 20 percent or more of their original value. Within the first five years you’re paying monthly payments on a car that’s about 60 percent of the original purchase price. And it might not be worth it if you don’t even end up owning the car in the end.
- There’s a chance you may have to pay fees if you need to return the car early.
- You could also have to pay fees if there’s damage that wasn’t caused by normal wear and tear.
If you weigh the pros and cons and decide leasing make sense, you’ll still want to negotiate the vehicle’s current price. After all, if the dealer agrees to a lower current price there will be less of a difference overall and your monthly payments could be lower.
The monthly leasing costs aside, you’ll want to consider what types of auto insurance you’ll need to buy when leasing and how much they’ll cost. And because you don’t own the car, the decision isn’t completely up to you.
Insurance for leased cars
You’ll almost certainly have to purchase liability insurance whether you buy or lease a car. Liability coverage is what protects you in case you hurt someone else or damage their property while you’re driving. And there’s state minimum requirements for it.
More often than not, the leasing company will require you to pay for more coverage and higher limits. Usually, they require $100,000 of bodily injury liability coverage per person, $300,000 per accident, and $50,000 in property damage liability insurance.
Another requirement might be to buy personal injury protection (PIP), which covers medical expenses, lost wages, and funeral costs for you and your passengers after an accident.
Lessees may have additional car insurance requirements
The lessee could require you to buy other types of insurance as part of the lease agreement:
Comprehensive and collision
Collision insurance covers you in case the car is damaged in a crash. Comprehensive insurance covers damage to your car when it’s not in a collision (such as a fallen tree), and in case someone steals the car. Full coverage is comprehensive and collision combined.
The lessee may have specific requirements for the deductible for these types of insurance. You may also need to buy specific riders, which can make the insurance more expensive.
For example, the lessee might require an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) rider, which means a mechanic or a body shop needs to use parts from the original manufacturer, rather than generic parts, when repairing the car.
New cars quickly depreciate, and there could be a difference between the current value of the vehicle and the amount you still owe the lessee. This “gap” can become an issue if the vehicle is declared a total loss or stolen as insurance might cover the current value of the car, but not the gap.
Gap insurance might be optional, but some lessees automatically add the insurance to your lease and include the premiums in your lease payments or charge you a one-time fee when the lease starts.
Because the lessee still legally owns the vehicle, you may need to name the company as an additional insured party and as the loss payee. If the car is damaged beyond repair or stolen, the insurance company can now pay the lessee directly.
Additionally, the insurance company will notify the lessee if you change your coverage, cancel your insurance policy or are late with a premium payment.
Your insurance could be lower if you buy the same vehicle
If you choose to buy a car rather than lease a vehicle you’ll still need to comply with your state’s minimum insurance requirements. However, you could have more control over the amount of coverage you buy and whether you want to purchase additional coverage.
Each of these choices can impact your cost of insurance. For example, a higher deductible (the amount you need to pay before your insurance kicks in) leads to lower premiums. The lessee might dictate how high of a deductible you’re allowed to have even if you’d rather have a higher deductible and lower payments.
Keep in mind, if you take out an auto loan to purchase a car, the lender may have similar requirements as a lessee.
Tips for lowering your insurance even if you lease
It can seem like you’re stuck at the lessee’s whim for the type and amount of car insurance you’ll need to buy. While this is partially true, you still control many of the factors that influence your rates and can find ways to lower your costs. For example, the lessee doesn’t say which insurance company you need to choose or whether you can qualify for discounts.
Here are two simple ways to potentially save money on your car insurance:
- Don’t assume your current insurer, or the insurance company that your friend or relative recommends, is the least expensive option. Shopping for insurance can be simple and you can switch insurers at any time.
- A home and auto insurance bundle often leads to a discount. You can do this by buying your car insurance from the same company you use for renters or homeowners insurance.
Insurance companies won’t give you the discounts you’re eligible for unless they know you qualify. So, be sure to contact your insurer and ask about additional savings opportunities and tell them about significant changes in your life. If you change jobs and are driving less, get married or install anti-theft devices in your car, that could all lead to savings.
Looking for car insurance? | <urn:uuid:f14c6b5c-0a94-4d61-844d-d58c3b0b797f> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://cover.com/blog/insurance-for-leased-car | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.956935 | 1,708 | 1.6875 | 2 |
As interest rates rise in the United States and the world begins to emerge from COVID, financial conditions around the world have tightened. Bitcoin and Ethereum are both down more than 50% from their all-time highs.
The season for “up only”, #cryptotwitter’s preferred term for the bull market, is over.
So what can you do when things go wrong or slow down a bit?
Here are five ideas that can help 👇
1. Forget your maximum net worth
Even though it’s hard, try to avoid obsessing over the loan you could have paid off, the house you could have bought, or the riches you could have been swimming in.
Chasing that number will likely lead to poor decision making.
Instead, try keeping a diary of what happened to your investment and what you might change in the future.
- Didn’t you take profits as you expected?
- Haven’t you left enough money aside for unexpected life events?
- Did you listen to bad influencers?
- Have you focused on the hype of a project rather than its fundamentals?
- You didn’t have a plan at the start?
Identifying these decisions can help you make better ones in the future. The first step is to recognize the problem.
2. Avoid Revenge Trading and FOMO
If you’re down substantially from your portfolio highs, you’re probably not going to roll back a trade.
Yet that doesn’t stop people from taking revenge on trading, trying to recoup a loss on previous trades in a very short time – and often acting irrationally in the process.
The key to avoiding this is position sizing, adjusting your trade size based on your account balance. You will always risk a set percentage of your account on each trade, regardless of your account size.
For example, if you can risk 2% of your portfolio per trade and have a $10,000 account, you would take a $200 position on each trade. If your account doubles or decreases, so does your trade size.
Position size is critical as it helps you stay in the game, even if you encounter a series of losing trades.
3. Consider a dynamic buying average
Macro-investor Darius Dale tells his audience not only the average cost in dollars – investing a fixed amount weekly or monthly – but of dynamically average cost in dollars.
What does it mean?
When the financial outlook is negative, you reduce your purchases in favor of holding more cash. When the financial outlook improves, you increase the size of your purchase.
To make the strategy even better, you can direct part of your monthly investment to a dollar pegged stablecoin like USDC, USDT or USDP and move them to a Blockchain.com rewards account to earn an APY competitive.
4. Don’t take chances if you can’t sleep at night
Yes, that’s the whole tip. ☝️
The predictable thing about crypto is that it is unpredictable. If it makes you lose sleep, you may be at too much risk.
5. Keep an open mind
We are still in the early stages of this technology.
When the internet went mainstream, it was hard to imagine companies like Facebook, Google, and Amazon would emerge.
The same goes for Ethereum and Bitcoin today. We don’t know what amazing use cases will emerge or what projects will thrive.
We know it hasn’t been easy there. But the good news is that crypto has already been through tough times.
And that’s often when the best construction happens. 🏗️
Did we miss any tips? Let us know in the “Comments” section. | <urn:uuid:08364abb-1f1e-4bed-8802-cc568a3edad9> | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | https://thecryptonews.co.uk/what-to-do-in-the-event-of-a-crypto-downturn-with-rising-interest-rates-in-by-blockchain-com-blockchain-may-2022/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882572908.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20220817122626-20220817152626-00064.warc.gz | en | 0.937396 | 787 | 1.648438 | 2 |
- Open Access
Stable inheritance of DNA methylation allows creation of epigenotype maps and the study of epiallele inheritance patterns in the absence of genetic variation
Genome Biology volume 18, Article number: 155 (2017)
Differences in DNA methylation can arise as epialleles, which are loci that differ in chromatin state and are inherited over generations. Epialleles offer an additional source of variation that can affect phenotypic diversity beyond changes to nucleotide sequence. Previous research has looked at the rate at which spontaneous epialleles arise but it is currently unknown how they are maintained across generations.
We used two Arabidopsis thaliana mutation accumulation (MA) lines and determined that over 99.998% of the methylated regions in the genome are stably inherited across each generation indicating that spontaneous epialleles are rare. We also developed a novel procedure that determines genotypes for offspring of genetically identical parents using only DNA methylation data. The resulting epigenotype maps are highly accurate and strongly agree with expected allele frequency and crossover number. Using epigenotype maps, we explore the inheritance of methylation states in regions of differential methylation between the parents of genetic crosses. Over half of the regions show methylation levels consistent with cis inheritance, whereas the other half show evidence of trans-chromosomal methylation and demethylation as well as other possibilities.
DNA methylation is stably inherited by offspring and spontaneous epialleles are rare. The epigenotyping procedure that we describe provides an important first step to epigenetic quantitative trait loci mapping in genetically identical individuals.
Epigenetic alleles (epialleles) are alleles with differential chromatin states that are mitotically and/or meiotically inherited and are a source of variation that can result in phenotypic diversity. Epialleles have been implicated in numerous phenomena such as hybrid vigor [1,2,3], genetic incompatibility [4, 5], and stress response (reviewed in [6,7,8]). Understanding how epialleles are formed and maintained is important for crop improvement, as they represent an untapped source of allelic variation [9, 10].
Epialleles most often arise from changes in cytosine methylation, which is traditionally associated with transcriptional silencing and transposable element (TE) repression. In plants, DNA methylation occurs in three unique sequence contexts: CG, CHG, and CHH where H represents A, C, or T. Each context is maintained by unique pathways and has distinct roles in gene regulation (reviewed in ). Genes heavily methylated in all sequence contexts are often transcriptionally silent, whereas only CG methylation in gene bodies (gene body methylation (gbM)) is commonly associated with actively transcribed genes [12, 13].
Spontaneous epialleles occur independent of changes in DNA sequence. Notable examples include the peloric epiallele in toadflax caused by hypermethylation of the Lcyc allele and the COLORLESS NON-RIPENING (CNR) epiallele in tomato caused by hypermethylation of the cnr promoter . The mantled phenotype of oil palm is additionally caused by a spontaneous epiallele, resulting in the hypomethylation of a retrotransposon within the DEFICIENS gene. This epiallele is of significant agricultural importance, as it results in a substantial loss of yield in affected individuals . Beyond these drastic phenotypes, epialleles also increase phenotypic variation of additional agriculturally important traits such as floral transition [17,18,19,20], plant height [18, 19], root length , overall crop yield [16, 21], and disease resistance [19, 22]. Collectively, epialleles caused by altered DNA methylation are suggested to be a source of observed missing heritability .
Understanding the rate at which epialleles naturally arise continues to be an active area of research. The rate of spontaneous epiallele formation is often confounded by genetic variation, as an epiallele caused by a change in DNA sequence is not truly epigenetic [24, 25]. Previous research involving the use of epigenetic recombinant inbred lines (epiRILs) has greatly increased the understanding of how epialleles are inherited. epiRILs are created using parent plants with the same genetic background, except one parent has a mutation resulting in vastly lowered levels of DNA methylation. Previous studies with epiRILs have shown stable inheritance of DNA methylation over multiple generations and that DNA methylation is mainly additive, although selection against demethylated alleles has been noted [18, 19]. Additionally, epiRILs show extensive phenotypic variation with differentially methylated regions (DMRs) highly associated with altered phenotypes [20, 26,27,28].
Additional work has taken advantage of different Arabidopsis thaliana accessions to explore the inheritance of DNA methylation over generations. After crossing different accessions, known single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) between parents were used to determine chromosomal parent-of-origin and to look for regions of non-additive DNA methylation [29,30,31,32,33]. This strategy has also been applied in crop species such as soybean and corn using recombinant inbred lines [25, 34,35,36]. These studies showed inherited DNA methylation is mainly additive with rare exceptions, possibly caused by the formation of spontaneous epialleles.
Although the use of epiRILs and differing accessions has greatly expanded the knowledge of how epialleles arise, genetic variation has the capacity to confound results using these two methods. Transposable element reactivation in epiRIL lines as well as genetic variation found in different accessions or inbred lines have the potential to create epialleles which are the result of genetic variation, and thus not truly spontaneous. Previous studies noted that no identified epialleles were near areas of genetic variation; however, this does not eliminate the possibility of trans-acting effects or paramutations [25, 36, 37].
An additional approach used to minimize genetic variation is the use of mutation accumulation (MA) lines. Previously, Shaw et al. created a set of A. thaliana MA lines from a single Col-0 progenitor. Each line was maintained by single-seed descent for 30 generations . Using whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) of early and late generation individuals from MA lines, Schmitz et al. found DNA methylation was consistent for 91% of methylated cytosines. Further analysis has estimated the rate of spontaneous change in DNA methylation at a single cytosine, termed epimutation, to be four to five orders of magnitude greater than nucleotide mutation rate (10−4 compared to 10−9 per generation per haploid genome, respectively), with losses of DNA methylation more likely than gains [40, 41]. Additionally, epimutations did not accumulate linearly; the number of differentially methylated positions did not increase at a constant rate per generation [41, 42]. However, the number of differentially methylated regions per generation was comparable to the number of nucleotide mutations per generation [39, 42].
Differential methylation of a single cytosine has not been sufficiently linked to altered phenotypes in plants. In contrast, epialleles are known to associate with changes of gene expression and phenotype, but the stability of epialleles through either self-fertilization or outcrossing remains unclear. Furthermore, it is unclear how frequently epialleles arise over sequential generations. In this study, we discover that 99.998% of the methylated regions in the genome were faithfully inherited over generations in two independent MA lines. However, rare spontaneous epialleles were identified and were used to assess the stability of newly formed methylation states using an outcrossing population. As there are not a significant number of nucleotide mutations to distinguish the parental genotypes, a novel epigenotyping method was implemented to determine the parent-of-origin for each of the F2 progeny. Implementing this method revealed that over half of the newly formed parental epialleles segregated in a Mendelian manner. This novel epigenotyping procedure and the resulting data suggest that spontaneous epialleles are sources of allelic variation in crop genomes that are likely stable enough to be used in breeding programs.
Transgenerational stability of DNA methylation states
In previous studies, WGBS was used to assess the inheritance of DNA methylation at individual cytosines over multiple generations [39, 41, 42]. Additionally, previous studies have also explored the spontaneous formation of DMRs between distant generations [39, 42], but it is unknown how stable the newly formed methylation status of these regions is between consecutive generations. To investigate this further, we obtained WGBS data from consecutive generations in two A. thaliana Col-0 MA lines , line 12 and line 69 (Fig. 1a; Additional file 1: Table S1). Because the majority of the A. thaliana genome is unmethylated, we first identified all methylated regions in the genome (methylome). This revealed 23,761 regions (27 Mb) and 21,545 regions (28 Mb) for lines 12 and 69, respectively. We then identified DMRs within each line independently for all generations using differential DNA methylation analysis in all sequence contexts, which revealed 23 DMRs (2157 bp) and 41 DMRs (3981 bp) in lines 12 and 69, respectively (Additional file 1: Table S2). Of the DMRs identified in each line, only four were the same. In these two lines, DMRs constituted less than 0.003% (Fig. 1b) of the methylome and most were specific to each line (Fig. 1b inset).
Next, the stability of the newly formed methylation states at these DMRs was examined. Ten of the 23 DMRs in line 12 and 19 of 41 DMRs in line 69 had a change in DNA methylation states between a single generation (Fig. 1c), indicating a spontaneous epiallele formed that was subsequently faithfully inherited (Additional file 2: Figure S1a). However, 13 regions with multiple changes in DNA methylation states between generations in line 12 and 22 in line 69 were also identified, indicating regions of instability or “hotspots” (Additional file 2: Figure S1b). Overall, DNA methylation states were stably inherited over generations as 99.998 and 99.997% of the methylome identified in lines 12 and 69, respectively, did not contain an epiallele.
Finally, we were interested to know where the epialleles are located in the genome in regards to genomic features (Fig. 1d; Additional file 1: Table S2). Most methylated regions occurred in transposable elements (TEs). However, the majority of the epialleles identified occurred within gene promoters (Pro), defined as 1 kb upstream of the transcription start site. A large portion of epialleles also occurred in intergenic regions (IGRs). Relatively few occurred in TEs and rarely occurred in untranslated regions (UTRs), coding sequences (CDSs), introns, and non-coding RNA (ncRNA) regions (Fig. 1d; Additional file 1: Table S2).
Inheritance of epialleles upon outcrossing
To help separate genetic effects on the inheritance of spontaneous epialleles during outcrossing, we crossed an individual from line 49 and line 69 of the Shaw et al. MA lines (Fig. 2a). Line 49 generation 24 (G24) was the maternal parent, and line 69 generation 20 (G20) was the paternal parent. From the resulting offspring, the F1 generation, a single random individual was chosen and self-crossed to produce the F2 generation. Twenty F2 individuals were randomly selected for further analysis by WGBS to assess the inheritance of DNA methylation of differentially methylated regions between the two parents. Additionally, both parents were self-crossed to produce the G′1 generation. A random individual from each G′1 population was subsequently self-crossed to produce the G′2 generation. The individuals used in the G′1 crosses and a randomly selected G′2 individual for each line were subjected to WGBS (Fig. 2a; Additional file 1: Table S1).
In previous studies, the ability to study the inheritance of DNA methylation states relied on utilizing genetic variation, often SNPs, in sequenced data to assign regions to each parent, making it possible to compare DNA methylation between parents and progeny. As the MA lines used in this experiment have nearly identical genomes, this approach could not be used, and instead required the development of a method that is not dependent on genetic variation to assign regions to the correct parent in each of the progeny. We hypothesized that if DNA methylation is stably inherited for the vast majority of methylated regions in the genome, DNA methylation data could be used to create a genetic map—termed an epigenotype map . To test this, cytosines in all sequence contexts were identified that were differentially methylated in the parents. Using these informative positions, we then obtained the methylation level of positions sufficiently covered in all samples to be analyzed. Next, each chromosome was split into non-overlapping bins. Bins with less than three informative positions were combined with adjacent bins to minimize the predictive bias of bins with little discriminatory power. The “mid-parent” methylome was computed for all positions in the bin by averaging the methylation level of the parents at each position. When available, additional mid-parent methylomes were created from parental replicates. With the methylation values, a logistic regression classifier was trained for the mother, mid-parent, and father samples. Classification states were weighted by the expected heterozygosity of F2 individuals, 0.25, 0.5, and 0.25 (1:2:1) for mother, mid-parent, and father, respectively. The trained classifier was applied to all samples and the state (classification) with the highest probability at each bin was used as the putative epigenotype (Fig. 2b; Additional file 2: Figure S2).
Crossovers are not expected to occur at high frequencies over small regions of chromosomes, which required the addition of a smoothing method to minimize these likely spurious events. This was accomplished by a forward-backward algorithm, which is commonly used in signal decoding to correct for noise . The algorithm generated posterior probabilities to determine the most likely state at each bin (Fig. 2c). The state with the highest probability was used as the next putative epigenotype (Additional file 2: Figure S3). The centromere and pericentromeric heterochromatin caused difficulties for the logistic regression classifier due to their repetitive nature. The logistic regression classifier predicted the centromere of all samples to be the mid-parent state even when regions just outside of the centromere were classified as mother or father (Additional file 2: Figure S3). To overcome this, the centromere was masked when calculating posterior probability (see “Methods”).
After applying the forward-backward algorithm, the Viterbi algorithm was applied to find the most likely sequence of states across the chromosome (Fig. 2d; Additional file 2: Figure S4) . The centromere region was again masked when applying the Viterbi algorithm. The predicted states from the Viterbi algorithm were used as the final predicted epigenotype (Fig. 2e). Bins predicted as the mother state and the father state represented homozygous maternal and paternal epigenotype, respectively. Bins predicted as the mid-parent state represented the heterozygous epigenotype. Adjacent bins with the same epigenotype represented inherited haplotype blocks and changes in epigenotype between adjacent bins represented crossovers.
Simulation testing for prediction of epigenotypes
To test the correctness of the proposed procedure, we generated a series of simulated datasets using the parental methylation values of chromosome 3. A. thaliana has an average of one to two crossovers per chromosome [45, 46]. It was important to test for increasing number of crossovers to determine potential limits of the procedure. For each simulation iteration, 20 samples were created with zero to 19 potential points of crossover on the chromosome (see “Methods”). Each region of the samples was randomly assigned an epigenotype as maternal homozygous, heterozygous, or paternal homozygous with probabilities 0.25, 0.5, and 0.25 (1:2:1), respectively, as expected by Mendelian inheritance. For each sample, simulated methylomes were created using the parental methylation level of each position within the region. To test the ability of the procedure to handle error around expected methylation levels, additional methylomes were created using randomly generated values within ± 10 to 100% of the parental methylation value. Each set of samples for a given error level was tested with the procedure using six bin sizes of 10 to 500 kb. The final epigenotype prediction was then compared to the assigned epigenotype and accuracy was computed. This process was applied for 25 total iterations (Additional file 2: Figure S5).
The epigenotyping procedure worked well when methylation values were within ±50% of the expected parental methylation values and when using bin sizes greater than 10 kb (Fig. 3a). Larger bin sizes were less accurate for samples with increasing number of crossovers because a bin could potentially span multiple crossovers (Additional file 2: Figure S6). Additionally, larger bin sizes were better able to handle increasing error values than smaller bin sizes (Fig. 3a). Overall, 50-kb bins and ±30% variability had the highest accuracy at 98.69%, validating the utility of the epigenotyping method (Additional file 1: Table S3). Using 50-kb bins was robust to increasing numbers of breakpoints and increasing error around the expected parental methylation (Additional file 2: Figure S6). For these reasons, 50-kb bins were used for further analysis of our genetic cross.
Epigenotyping of met1 epiRILs
To test the procedure on existing datasets, epiRILs were subsequently analyzed. In an epiRIL population, each line had a mosaic methylome of normal DNA methylation inherited from the wild type (WT) parent and hypomethylation inherited from the mutant parent, with minimal genetic differences [18, 19]. We used previously published WBGS data for Col-0 WT, Col-0 met1-3, and F8 generation of three met1 epiRILs [39, 47, 48] (Additional file 1: Table S1). The class weights were adjusted to account for the expected low residual heterozygosity of F8 individuals. Additionally, the logistic regression classifier was biased towards the WT sample. To overcome this, it was necessary to adjust the input probabilities when applying the forward-backward algorithm (see “Methods”). Due to remethylation events which have been previously documented in the epiRILs [19, 48], using cytosines in all contexts produced ambiguous maps. By using only CG cytosines within gene body methylated genes, which are unlikely to be remethylated , we were able to successfully create epigenotype maps for three independent met1 epiRILs (Fig. 3b; Additional file 2: Figure S7).
Epigenotyping for C24-Ler crosses
For further validation, we sought to test the procedure on a cross with additional genetic diversity. This would allow us to compare the genetic map created using SNPs to the epigenotype map. We used previously published methylation for a cross between A. thaliana accessions C24 and Ler and six F2 samples (Additional file 1: Table S1). The epigenotype map was able to recapitulate the SNP-based genetic map at 99.8% of bins (Fig. 3c; Additional file 2: Figure S8) and was able to predict all recombination events except for one event on chromosome 4 of F2-E that occurred at the heterochromatic knob (Additional file 2: Figure S8). The average difference in breakpoints between the two methods was 18 kb (Additional file 1: Table S4).
Confident the epigenotyping procedure worked as intended, the procedure was applied to all samples in the genetic cross using cytosines in all sequence contexts (CG, CHG, and CHH) with 50-kb bins and centromere masking. Methylomes of the G′1 generation and G′2 generation were used as parental replicates. The final maps showed large contiguous blocks of consistent epigenotype with inferred locations of crossovers (Fig. 4a). The average number of crossovers observed in the F2 samples per chromosome compared well to previous studies using genetic approaches [45, 46] (Additional file 1: Table S5). There was no significant difference in the observed distribution and expected distribution of crossovers for each chromosome (Fig. 4b; Additional file 1: Table S5). Additional support for high-quality epigenotype maps was observed by comparing expected and observed allele frequencies in the F2 samples. From the law of segregation, maternal and paternal alleles should occur in equal frequencies at each locus in the F2 samples. Inferring F2 alleles from the epigenotype map, the expected 1:1 ratio could not be rejected for any bin on any chromosome (Fig. 4c; Additional file 1: Table S6).
The parental samples of this cross are nearly genetically identical; however, 36 SNPs were identified between later generations of lines 49 and 69 . After eliminating SNPs that had not occurred in the parents, SNPs that could not be differentiated with bisulfite sequencing, and SNPs with insufficient coverage (Additional file 1: Table S7), 18 SNPs remained available for analysis (Additional file 2: Figure S9a). Overall, the epigenotype and SNP genotype were in agreement for 96.4% of the SNPs (Fig. 4d; Additional file 1: Table S8). Most of the F2 samples (12/20) had all SNPs in agreement and 6/20 samples had only a single mismatch, which could be due to a number of reasons (Additional file 2: Figure S9b). Five of the 13 inconsistencies were centromeric, which was known to be more difficult to epigenotype due to the repeat content. Five other mismatch positions could be due to sequencing errors. For example, a predicted heterozygous SNP occurred in F2-3 on chromosome 1 at 23 Mb in a large block of predicted homozygous maternal. The SNP genotype could be incorrect to a sequencing error on the one read which supports the heterozygous genotype (Additional file 1: Table S8). Using multiple independent populations with and without genetic variation we conclude that we are able to create a genetic map solely using DNA methylation data.
Inheritance of parental epialleles in F2 progeny
To observe inheritance of DNA methylation states of spontaneous epialleles, 107 DMRs between the parents were identified. If DNA methylation inheritance is mainly additive, a maternal homozygous F2 at a DMR is expected to have a methylation level near the methylation level of the mother. Similarly, a paternal homozygous F2 at the DMR would be expected to have a methylation level near the father. A heterozygous F2 would be expected to have a methylation level between the mother and father levels. Because the parent samples sequenced were siblings of the plants used in the cross, it was important to filter DMRs that were specific to the sequenced sibling and were not due to a spontaneous epiallele. For each line, DMRs were identified between each of the parents, and their subsequent G′1 and G′2 progeny (Additional file 1: Table S9 and Table S10). These regions were eliminated and 100 DMRs remained for subsequent analysis.
For each region of differential methylation between the parents, the epigenotype for each F2 was determined and the methylation level across the region was computed. Then, the distribution of methylation levels for the F2s with the same epigenotype was compared for differences in mean methylation level between the epigenotypes (Additional file 2: Figure S10; Additional file 1: Table S11). Regions were then categorized into four groups based on the observed pattern of inheritance (Additional file 1: Table S12). In the first group, the distribution of methylation levels agreed with the epigenotype (Fig. 5a). These regions indicated additive methylation inheritance. The second group, parental dominant, consisted of regions where all F2 samples had a methylation level close to one parent, regardless of epigenotype (Fig. 5b). These regions could be explained by trans-chromosomal methylation (TCM) and trans-chromosomal demethylation (TCdM) . The third group of regions showed no association between methylation level and epigenotype (Fig. 5c). These regions could occur as a result of spontaneous events. Regions in the final group were ambiguous, likely a result of the small sample size or large variability of methylation levels of the F2s (Fig. 5d).
Over half of the regions had the inheritance pattern expected by additive methylation inheritance (Additional file 2: Figure S11). In these regions where parental methylation is substantially different, a high proportion of additive inheritance was still observed. Only three regions were categorized as a parental dominant region, suggesting that TCM and TCdM are not commonly associated with spontaneous epialleles. In the cases where small sample size or high variability affected classification, increasing the number of F2 samples analyzed would potentially correct misclassifications.
We were also interested to see if there was any association between inheritance pattern observed and the underlying genetic characteristics (Fig. 5e; Additional file 1: Table S12). Similar to the transgenerational MA lines, most epialleles were in gene promoters. There did not appear to be a correlation between inheritance pattern and genomic feature.
Plants have multiple pathways for maintaining DNA methylation. Although the epimutation rate of individual cytosines is high (10−4 per generation per haploid genome) , methylation across regions is very stably inherited (Fig. 1b). Of the methylated regions in the genome, less than 0.003% are not faithfully inherited by the next generation. The combined methylation across a region is more crucial than methylation at single positions because it is altered methylation of regions, not positions, that can have documented effects in plants [14,15,16]. When a spontaneous epiallele arose, we observed approximately 45.3% of the newly formed methylation states are subsequently stably inherited over the generational timescales explored (Fig. 1c). In systems with perturbed methylomes like epiRILs, some regions of abnormal methylation return to the original methylation state after several generations [18, 19, 49]. This suggests there are underlying characteristics leading to the re-methylation, such as sequence, small RNAs, or transposable element content. Most regions, however, are maintained in the newly methylated state. DNA methylation is dynamic but also incredibly stable between generations for most of the methylome.
Variation in DNA methylation is a potential source of alleles that can lead to natural phenotypic diversity. Crop plants tend to have large genomes and many silenced regions, which could provide an even greater source of phenotypic variation as compared to A. thaliana. This could be particularly useful for agriculturally important traits. With the invention of epimutagenesis and targeted epigenome editing, it is important that induced epialleles are stable through several generations for them to be useful in crop improvement . The research suggests that although most methylated regions of the genome are stably inherited, locations of natural epialleles have varying stability over generational time. Future work will be needed to explore the factors affecting epiallele stability to avoid inducing epialleles that are unlikely to be stable.
DNA methylation in plants is inherited in cis, which has allowed us to develop a procedure to determine genotype from only DNA methylation (Fig. 2). The epigenotyping procedure performed well for simulated data, previously published epiRILs, and a cross between A. thaliana accessions (Fig. 3). The procedure was applied to genetically identical F2 progeny and the resulting maps agreed well with the expected number of crossovers in A. thaliana, with the expected allele frequencies based on Mendelian inheritance and with SNP data (Fig. 4). This method provides an important first step for epigenetic quantitative trait loci (epiQTL) identification in genetically identical individuals. With additional testing and validation, epigenotype maps created from this procedure can be used to link complex traits to regions of differential methylation in experimental and natural plant populations, including crops.
The epigenotyping procedure has allowed us to uncouple newly formed epialleles from potential genetic causes to accurately identify spontaneous epialleles and more clearly understand patterns of inheritance. Of the epialleles differing between the parents, over half show expected additive inheritance in the F2 offspring (Fig. 5). Few regions showed possible evidence of TCM or TCdM . Sampling additional F2 progeny would be beneficial for future studies to accurately categorize regions with ambiguous patterns.
This study reveals that DNA methylation within discrete regions is stably inherited across generations with few spontaneous epialleles arising each generation even though the single cytosine epimutation rate is much higher. DNA methylation is inherited in cis, which allowed the creation of a procedure to create accurate epigenotype maps in offspring of a genetic cross with almost no genetic variation. Applying this procedure, more than half of differentially methylated regions between the parents were inherited as expected, with DNA methylation levels in the region in agreement with the predicted epigenotype.
Seeds from Shaw et al. were obtained for generations indicated in Fig. 1a. Seeds were planted and grown in 16-h day lengths and tissue was harvested from young leaf tissue. Tissue was flash frozen in liquid nitrogen and DNA was isolated using a Qiagen Plant DNeasy kit (Qiagen, Valencia, CA, USA) according to the manufacturer’s protocol.
MethylC-seq library construction and sequencing
Line 12 samples, met1-3, Col-0 wild type, met1 epiRILs, C24 wild type, Ler wild type, and C24-Ler F2 samples were previously published [31, 33, 39, 41, 47, 48]. Raw sequence reads were downloaded and reanalyzed. The libraries for the C24-Ler F2 samples comprised paired end reads, so to maintain consistency with other samples, only the first reads were used.
All other libraries were prepared according to the protocol described in Urich et al. . MethylC-seq libraries were sequenced to 150 bp using Illumina NextSeq500 (Illumina, San Diego, CA, USA).
MethylC-seq sequencing analysis
MethylC-seq reads were processed and aligned as described in . Briefly, reads were trimmed for adapters using Cutadapt v1.1.0 , parameters minimum quality score 10 and minimum read length 30 and aligned to the TAIR10 reference genome using Bowtie v1.1.0 with parameters “-k 1 –m 1 –chunkmbs 3072 –best –strata –o 4 –e 80 –l 20 –n 0”. Only uniquely mapped reads were retained. Non-conversion rate (the rate which unmethylated cytosines fail to convert to uracil) was calculated from reads aligning to the chloroplast. Positions were considered methylated based on the binomial test followed by Benjamini–Hochberg false discovery rate (FDR) correction. Non-conversion rate was used as the expected probability for the binomial test and only positions with at least three mapped reads were included. Methylation level is computed as the weighted methylation . The weighted methylation level was calculated as mC/(mC + uC) where mC is the number of methylated reads and uC is the number of unmethylated reads.
Identification of methylated regions
Methylomes generated for transgenerational lines 12 and 69 were computationally combined to form pan-methylomes for lines 12 and 69 independently. Specifically, the number of methylated and total (methylated plus unmethylated) reads was summed at each position across all samples in the line. Additionally, unmethylated pan-methylomes were generated by setting methylated reads to zero, while maintaining the total number of reads as reported in each line’s pan-methylome. For each line, the methylpy DMR identification program was applied, comparing the pan-methylome and unmethylated pan-methylome to identify all C DMRs, i.e., CNN DMRs (N = A, C, G, T). Parameters used were 3000 simulations, 100 significant tests, and 250 bp maximum DMR distance. Of these regions, regions 40+ bp long that had at least ten cytosines covered by at least three reads in the combined methylome were retained. A one-sided z-test was used to test for expected methylation level of 25% in at least one generation, i.e., 25%/8 generations = 3.125% for line 12 and 25%/10 generations = 2.5% for line 69. The resulting P values were adjusted using Benjamini–Hochberg correction (n = 33,208 for line 12 and n = 31,569 for line 69). After computing methylation level for each generation in each line, regions where all generations of a line had a methylation level less than 10% were removed. The mean length for methylated regions was 1138 and 1319 bp for lines 12 and 69, respectively.
Identification of transgenerational epialleles
DMRs were identified for all samples within a line using methylpy as described above. Of these regions, only regions 40+ bp long that had at least ten cytosines covered by at least three reads in all generations of a line and at least 20% difference in methylation level between the highest and lowest methylation level of generations in a line were retained. For each region in a line, a one-sided z-test was performed to test for a significance greater than 25% difference in methylation level between adjacent generations. Resulting P values were adjusted using Benjamini–Hochberg correction (n = 910 for line 12 and n = 1674 for line 69). A region is considered an epiallele between generations with an adjusted P value ≤0.05 (Additional file 1: Tables S13 and S14). Regions that did not overlap with identified methylated regions were eliminated. Regions with at least one epiallele were considered an epilocus. The mean length of epialleles in both lines was 94 bp. Due to the unequal distribution in length between identified epialleles and methylated regions, estimates of stability were computed for regions of 100 bp.
Methylated regions and epialleles identified in lines 12 and 69 were merged. At imperfect overlaps, the minimum start and maximum end was used to create the merged region. Methylated regions, excluding identified epialleles, were ordered using R’s ward.D clustering of the Euclidean distance of sample methylation values between regions . Line 12 epialleles were ordered by R’s ward.D clustering of the Euclidean distance of methylation values for line 69 samples. Line 69 epialleles were similarly ordered using methylation values of line 12 samples. Overlapping epialleles were ordered using methylation values of samples in both lines.
Categorization of epialleles by genomic features
A genomic feature map was created such that each base pair of the TAIR10 genome was assigned a single feature type (transposable element, promoter, untranslated region, coding sequence, intron, and non-coding RNA) based on the TAIR10 annotation . Promoters were defined as 1 kb upstream of the transcription start site of protein-coding genes. At positions where multiple feature types could be applicable, such as a transposon in an intron or promoter overlapping with adjacent gene, priority was given to non-coding RNA (highest), untranslated regions, introns, coding sequences, promoter, and transposon (lowest). Positions without an assignment were considered intergenic. Genomic feature content of each epiallele and methylated region was assigned proportionally based on the number of bases in each category.
Experimental set-up for genetic cross
An individual from line 49 generation 23 (line 49-G23) and an individual from line 69 generation 19 (line 69-G19) of Shaw et al. were each self-fertilized and grown. Individuals from the offspring were crossed such that line 49-G24 was the mother of the cross and line 69-G20 was the father. Siblings of these individuals were used for WGBS. Offspring of the cross were grown to create the F1 generation. A single randomly selected individual from the F1 was self-crossed and offspring, the F2 generation, were grown. Twenty individuals from the F2 generation were randomly selected for WGBS and subsequent analysis.
Additionally, the individuals from line 49-G20 and line 69-G24 used for the cross were self-crossed and created lines 49-G′1 and 69-G′1, respectively. One individual from those populations was randomly selected for WGBS and was self-crossed again to create lines 49-G′2 and 69-G′2. A single individual from each population was randomly chosen for WGBS.
Plants were grown in 16-h day lengths and tissue was harvested from young leaf tissue. Tissue was flash frozen in liquid nitrogen and DNA was isolated using a Qiagen Plant DNeasy kit (Qiagen, Valencia, CA, USA) according to the manufacturer’s protocol.
Feature density and definition of centromere
Density as number of genic base pairs per 100 kb was computed for each chromosome. A genic base pair is one that occurred within the gene feature coordinates of the TAIR10 annotation. A spline was constructed using R’s smooth.spline function and the minimum of that spline was considered the centromere center for the chromosome. For chromosomes 1, 2, 3, and 5, the centromere was defined as 1.5 Mb on either side of the center. This was 13.3–16.3 Mb for chromosome 1, 2.4–5.4 Mb for chromosome 2, 12–15 Mb for chromosome 3, and 10.4–13.4 Mb for chromosome 5. Due to the bimodal gene distribution caused by a heterochromatic knob on chromosome 4, the centromere was defined as 1.6–1.9 Mb and 2.9–5 Mb.
Epigenotyping procedure by MethylC-seq
First, differentially methylated positions in all sequence contexts were identified between the mother and father. A position was considered differentially methylated if coverage was at least three in both parents and only one parent was methylated based on the binomial test. Using these positions, the weighted methylation was computed for all samples (mother, father, F2s, G′1 s, and G′2 s) keeping only positions with at least three reads in all samples.
Next, each chromosome was analyzed independently. The chromosome was broken into bins of size x. Then bins with less than three positions were combined with a neighboring bin. For each bin, feature vectors (methylation level at all positions within the bin) were created for the mother sample and father sample. These feature vectors were combined to create a mid-parent value (MPV) feature vector as the average methylation between the parents at each position. The G′1 and G′2 samples were used as parental replicates and additional MPV feature vectors were created using the G′1 and G′2 samples as the corresponding MPV replicates. The maternal, paternal, and MPV feature vectors were used to train a logistic regression classifier using the sklearn toolkit v0.17.1 in python v3.5.2. The classifier was run with one-versus-rest multiclass option and the liblinear solver. Classification states were weighted 0.25 for mother and father and 0.5 for MPV since F2s are expected to follow a 1:2:1 ratio. This trained logistic regression classifier was applied to the bin in all samples, including the mother, father, and MPV samples. The predicted probability for each state (maternal, paternal, MPV) was determined and the state with the highest probability at the bin was reported as the preliminary predicted epigenotype.
Then, for each chromosome a transition matrix was computed using all samples except the mother and father. The transition from class l to class k is the sum of bins i, i =1 to N where bin i is class l and bin i +1 is class k. A pseudo-count of 1 was included for each transition, and the transition matrix was normalized.
A hidden Markov model was constructed with three states (mother, mid-parent, and father) for each bin and the transition matrix as transition probabilities. For all states of each bin, the logistic regression prediction probabilities were used as the emission probabilities. Then the forward-backward procedure was applied to each chromosome of each sample. The forward-backward procedure identifies the most likely state at each bin based on the posterior probability distribution. Centromere regions were masked such that only transition probabilities contributed to the posterior probability, i.e., emission probabilities were 1.0. The state with the highest probability for each bin was reported as the forward-backward prediction and the posterior probabilities were used as forward-backward prediction probabilities.
Next, a new transition matrix was computed using the forward-backward predictions.
The Viterbi algorithm was applied using forward-backward prediction probabilities as the emission probabilities and new transition matrix as the transition probabilities. It finds the most likely sequence of classes using maximum likelihood. Again, in centromeric regions, only the transition probability was used. The traceback procedure of the Viterbi decoding algorithm was used to assign the final class prediction or predicted epigenotype.
Simulations to test the epigenotyping procedure used the observed methylation values of differentially methylated positions on chromosome 3 for parents of the line 49–line 69 cross. Twenty samples were created with zero to 19 possible breakpoints equally spaced along the chromosome. For all samples, genotype (maternal, heterozygous, paternal) was randomly assigned to each region between breakpoints along the chromosome. Genotype probabilities were 0.25, 0.5, 0.25 for maternal, heterozygous, and paternal to emulate the expected probability of the F2s. Adjacent regions could be assigned the same genotype; thus, a sample with, for example, five possible breakpoints could have zero to five actual breakpoints.
Let x be the expected methylation level of the assigned genotype which equals the maternal, paternal, and mid-parent methylation level at a position. Let y be the error parameter such that the assigned methylation level at a position is randomly chosen between min (0, x – y) and max (x + y, 1). Simulations were run for values of y from 0 to 1 in 0.1 increments. The bin size parameter can have dramatic effects on the results, so the algorithm was run for bin sizes 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 kb. The epigenotyping procedure was run at each bin size using the observed mother and father samples as the parental samples and 20 simulated samples for a given variability y. Centromeric regions were not specified.
Accuracy of the prediction made by the algorithm was computed as the F1-score using sklearn toolkit with “micro” for the average parameter using the assigned genotypes as truth. The process of assigning sample genotypes and subsequent analysis was repeated for a total of 25 iterations. The final accuracy reported for each sample, variability, and bin size is the average accuracy of these 25 iterations.
Epigenotyping met1 epiRIL lines
The procedure was applied such that the logistic regression classifier was trained to classify WT, heterozygous, and met1 using the WT sample for the mother and the met1-3 sample for the father. Individuals of F8 epiRILs are expected to have much lower levels of heterozygosity compared to F2 individuals (0.5 vs 0.0078 for F2 and F8, respectively). To account for this, classification states were weighted by 0.4961, 0.0078, and 0.4961 (127:2:127) for mother, MPV, and father, respectively, based on the expected heterozygosity for F8 individuals. There was strong bias towards the mother (WT) for the logistic regression classifier. The prediction probability for the father (met1) was split between the father state and MPV state. The MPV state was not predicted in any sample, including the MPV sample, so the computed transition matrix remained unaffected; however, the forward-backward algorithm overrepresented the mother state due to the biased emission probabilities. To correct this, the emission probabilities used by the forward-backward algorithm were adjusted such that the emission probability of the MPV state was added to the probability of the father state. Due to remethylation events that can occur in epiRILs, only CG positions within the coding regions of gene body methylated genes that were differentially methylated between WT and met1 were used. The epigenotyping procedure was run using 50-kb bins and centromeres were not specified.
Epigenotyping C24-Ler F2 samples
The epigenotyping procedure was run using cytosines in all sequence contexts and 50-kb bins. Centromeres were defined as previously described. The genetic maps from Greaves et al. were created using 10-kb bins, so each 50-kb bin from the epigenotyping procedure was separated into five 10-kb bins. Most recombination events occurred in regions where genotype could not be determined in the genetic map. When determining the distance between breakpoints predicted by both maps, if the predicted breakpoint from the epigenotyping procedure occurred within the undetermined genotype region, distance was considered zero. When the predicted breakpoint was outside the undetermined genotype region, distance was calculated from the closest edge of the region to the breakpoint. Bins with unknown genotype were not included when computing agreement between the genetic map and epigenotype map.
Identification of breakpoints and expected crossover number
For all F2 individuals, breakpoints/crossovers were identified along each chromosome where adjacent bins had different epigenotypes. For each chromosome, a Poisson distribution was fitted using the mean number of crossovers. Confidence interval was identified using sample standard error. Expected number of crossovers per chromosome was found given a Poisson distribution with the mean observed for each chromosome. Probabilities were computed for x = 0 – 6 because fewer than one of 20 individuals were expected to be observed with more than six crossovers. In the F2s, no more than five crossovers were observed. An exact multinomial test was used to test for a difference between expected and observed crossover number for each chromosome. Resulting P values were adjusted with Benjamini–Hochberg correction.
Allele frequency inferred from epigenotype
Allele frequency or genotype ratio was tested using epigenotype predictions of chromosomes 1–5 of F2s from 50-kb bin size. Allele frequency is expected to be 1:1 for maternal and paternal. At each bin, the frequency of each allele was computed and a Chi-squared goodness of fit test was run in R. Resulting P values from the chi-squared test were adjusted using Benjamini–Hochberg correction.
WGBS SNP verification
Based on Ossowski et al. , 36 SNPs exist between line 49 generation 31 and line 69 generation 31. A subset of these SNPs were expected to have occurred by generation 24 in line 49 and generation 20 in line 69. Additionally, SNPs of unmethylated cytosine to thymine cannot be used because they are not differentiable in WGBS. Samtools v1.12 mpileup was run on the mapped WGBS reads at positions of all possible SNPs to get read coverage at each SNP. Of the original 36 SNPs, 18 were differentiable between the parent samples, i.e., at least one nucleotide was unique to each sample and had sufficient coverage to predict genotype in all F2 samples. Using the unique nucleotides at each SNP, the genotype of F2s was assigned maternal/paternal if it only had reads matching the unique maternal/paternal nucleotide and assigned heterozygous if it had at least one read matching both.
Identification of sibling-specific DMRs in parents
DMRs were identified with methylpy in the CNN context for line 49 (mother, 49-G′1, and 49-G′2) using the same parameters as transgenerational DMRs. Resulting DMRs were filtered by length and difference is weighted methylation between the most and least methylated samples such that only DMRs of at least 40 bp and 25% absolute difference in methylation level were retained. For each remaining DMR, a z-test was performed to calculate the P value for a greater than 25% difference in methylation level pairwise for line 49-G24 (mother) to 49-G′1 and line 49-G24 (mother) to 49-G′2. Resulting P values were corrected with the Benjamini–Hochberg procedure. A DMR was considered an epiallele if at least one comparison was significant, adjusted P value ≤0.05. The same procedure was applied for line 69 with line69-G20 (father), 69-G′1, and 69-G′2.
Identification of DMRs between parents
Using WGBS from line 49-G20 and line 69-G20, the parents of the cross, DMRs in the CNN, or all Cs, context were identified using the same program and parameters as transgenerational DMRs. Resulting DMRs were filtered by length and difference in weighted methylation such that only DMRs of at least 40 bp and 25% absolute difference in methylation level were retained. Regions that overlapped with sibling-specific DMRs were eliminated.
Categorization of epiallele inheritance patterns in F2 samples
At each identified epiallele differing between the parents, methylation level was computed for the parents and F2s. The F2 epigenotype at each epiallele was assigned from the epigenotype map.
Regions were grouped into four categories: expected association, parental dominant, no association, and ambiguous. To assign each region a category, the Games–Howell post-hoc method was used to compare the difference in mean methylation level for each F2 epigenotype group. For each epiallele, a t-value was obtained for each pairwise comparison between F2 epigenotype groups (maternal, heterozygous, paternal). Regions where a t-value could not be obtained were removed from analysis. Then, 2000 bootstrapped samples were run randomly, assigning the same distribution of epigenotype as the epigenotypes of F2 samples at the epiallele and t-values obtained. This provided a null distribution on t-values to test the observed t-value against. Each comparison was considered significantly different if the observed t-value was greater or equal to the 99th percentile of the bootstrapped t-values.
If all comparisons (maternal–paternal, heterozygous–paternal, heterozygous–maternal) were significantly different, the region was assigned “expected association” as each epigenotype group had a unique mean methylation level. If the average methylation level of all F2 samples was within 10% of one parent’s methylation level and the methylation level of each F2 sample was closer to the same parent’s methylation level, the DMR was assigned “parental dominant”. At regions with no significant heterozygous comparison, there was no association between epigenotype and methylation level and region was assigned “no association”. If only one heterozygous comparison (heterozygous–paternal or heterozygous–maternal) was significant, indicating heterozygous samples had methylation levels similar to one homozygous parental epigenotype, the region was assigned “ambiguous”.
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We would like to thank Adam Bewick, Lexiang Ji, and William Jordan for comments and discussions as well as the Georgia Genomics Facility (GGF) and Georgia Advanced Computing Resource Center (GACRC) for technical support.
This work was supported by the National Institutes of Health (R00GM100000), by the National Science Foundation (IOS-1546867) and by the Office of the Vice President of Research at UGA to R.J.S. B.T.H was supported by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences of the National Institutes of Health under award number T32GM007103.
Availability of data and materials
For line 12 samples, raw sequence data are available at the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) under accession GSE64463 . For met1 epiRIL lines, raw sequence reads for Col-0 met1-3 are available at GEO under accession GSE39901 , for Col-0 wild type are available at SRA under accession SRA035939 , and for the three epiRIL samples at GEO under accession GSE75071 . For the C24 and Ler cross, raw sequence reads for parental samples C24 and Ler are available at GEO under accession GSE35542 and for F2 samples are available at GEO under accession GSE85551 . All other datasets generated and analyzed during this study are available in the GEO repository under accession GSE94298. Code used for analysis is available at GitHub (https://github.com/schmitzlab/stable-transgenerational-inheritance-of-DNA-methylation) and at Zenodo with the identifier doi:10.5281/zenodo.834324 (http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.834324).
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Hofmeister, B.T., Lee, K., Rohr, N.A. et al. Stable inheritance of DNA methylation allows creation of epigenotype maps and the study of epiallele inheritance patterns in the absence of genetic variation. Genome Biol 18, 155 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13059-017-1288-x
- DNA methylation
- Spontaneous epiallele
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