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Q:
PowerShell Try/Catch with If Statements
Problem/Details
I am working in PowerShell and trying to figure out how custom Try Catch statements work. My current major issue involves mixing Try/Catch and If statements. So the idea of what I am trying to achieve is something like this:
try {
if (!$someVariable.Text) { throw new exception 0 }
elseif ($someVariable.Text -lt 11) { throw new exception 1 }
elseif (!($someVariable.Text -match '[a-zA-Z\s]')) { throw new exception 2}
}
catch 0 {
[System.Windows.Forms.MessageBox]::Show("Custom Error Message 1")
}
catch 1 {
[System.Windows.Forms.MessageBox]::Show("Custom Error Message 2")
}
catch 2 {
[System.Windows.Forms.MessageBox]::Show("Custom Error Message 3")
}
Now I know the above code is very inaccurate in terms of what the actual code will be, but I wanted to visually display what I'm thinking and trying to achieve.
Question
Does anyone know how to create custom error messages with PowerShell that could assist me with achieving something close to the above idea and explain your answer a bit? Thank you in advance
So far, the link below is the closest thing I have found to what I'm trying to achieve:
PowerShell Try, Catch, custom terminating error message
A:
The Error you throw is stored at $_.Exception.Message
$a = 1
try{
If($a -eq 1){
throw "1"
}
}catch{
if ($_.Exception.Message -eq 1){
"Error 1"
}else{
$_.Exception.Message
}
}
| null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Q:
Abaqus get face object
I'm trying to get the normal of every face in a surface (EDIT: the surface is extracted from a solid, not a shell). I can't seem to get the face objects though. According to the scripting reference guide this should be the syntax:
mdb.models[name].rootAssembly.instances[name].surfaces[name].faces[i]
I tried this:
femur_instance.surfaces['IMPLANT_SHAFT'].faces[0]
but when trying to get the normal using pointOn[1] attribute it gave me an attribute error. When I look at the attributes I get this:
['__class__', '__copy__', '__delattr__', '__dict__', '__doc__', '__format__', '__getattribute__', '__getstate__', '__hash__', '__init__', '__lt__', '__module__', '__new__', '__reduce__', '__reduce_ex__', '__repr__', '__setattr__', '__setstate__', '__sizeof__', '__str__', '__subclasshook__', '__weakref__', '_addToCache', '_cache', '_counter', '_id', '_p', '_scdId', 'getId', 'getText', 'name']
the type of the returned object is: 'symbolicConstant'
What am I doing wrong?
EDIT: femur_instance was defined as, odb.rootAssembly.instances['FEMUR_SHAFT_1'] which caused the error, see answer.
A:
You are referring to two different objects in your post and in your comment. One is a Face object in the mdb, the other is an OdbSet object in the odb. Although they are similarly named, they do not have the same meaning, attributes, or methods. This is the source of the error message you mention.
For example, in your original post you are referencing the geometric Face object in the mdb. For example:
`f = mdb.rootAssembly.instances[name].surfaces[name].faces[N]`
where N references the specific Face object in the faces array and we are assigning it to the variable f. Now, f has a handful of "members" or attributes. One of the them is f.pointOn. See how to use this below.
However, in your comments, you refer to the OdbSet object. For example:
`g = odb.rootAssembly.instances[name].surfaces[name].faces[N]`
In this case, faces is a tuple of symbolic constants that specify the element face on the geometric face. It seems you are trying to use g, but you actually should be using the mdb Face object f.
Using the mdb Face object: If your part is a solid (meshed using continuum elements such as CPS4 in 2D or C3D8 in 3D), then:
((x,y,z),) = f.pointOn
The pointOn member is a tuple of tuples of floats. There is actually only one inner tuple, and it contains the coordinates of a point on the face.
If your part is a shell (meshed using shell elements such as S4), then you will instead get:
((x,y,z),(a,b,c)) = f.pointOn
which is again, a tuple of tuples of floats. There are two inner tuples. The first contains the coordinates of a point on the face, and the second contains the components of the normal to the face in the global coordinate system.
I have the feeling that your part is a solid, however, so this technique will not return the normal to the surface.
| null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
22-year-old, Sadiq Akolade Alabi put Kwara on the world map two weeks ago, by winning the International Quran memorisation competition at the Masjid Shaheed Hall in Jordan.
Akolade who hails from Oke-Oyan in Ifelodun Local Government Area of the state defeated 31 other participants from across the globe including Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Malaysia, United Arab Emirates, Bangladesh, Morocco and Egypt to emerge the winner of the competition
In this interview with ADEBAYO OLODAN, the Industrial Chemistry graduate from the Kwara State University, KWASU, Malete talks about how he was spurred to victory by his brother and younger Quran reciters from Northern Nigerian and how he intends spending the star prize of N2.8million won by him.
How did you develop interest in Quran recitation and memorisation?
Let me start by appreciating my brother, Sheikh Musliudeen Alabi who taught me and others Quran recitation and memorisation while in the Primary School. He will even take us to venues of Quran competitions to develop our interest in the act.
When was the first time you competed for honours?
I made my debut in Quran memorisation in a competition organised by the then governor of Kwara State who is now the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, in 2005. Then I did 2 hibs at the Kwara State Stadium Complex, Ilorin. From then, I have represented Kwara State in 2 hibs category in Edo State (2009) where I won a prize in fourth position. I also competed in Jigawa where I emerged the winner in 2011. From there, I was encouraged each time I saw people that are much younger than me memorising the entire Quran so I move on to 40 hibs which is 2/3 of the Holy book. I enrolled for the competition in Zamfara (2013) and I finished a distant 6th,. After the disappointment, my tutor encouraged me to put in for the same category and a year later when I returned to Jigawa State, I won the first prize. In 2015, I represented Nigeria in Saudi Arabia but I finished 7th.
How were you able to turn that disappointment into victory this time?
The process began after I came second in the last National Quranic competition and having gone through a rigorous process of four stages before I was selected by the Quran Recitation and Memorisation Organisation in Kano, I was more than determined to make Kwara and Nigeria proud.
My tutors told me there are no margins for error at this stage, so I made sure I perfected my memorisation and Alhamdullilahi, Allah crowned our efforts.
Even before the final day of the event, the judges could not hide their excitement over the way I recited the Quran. A colleague from Ghana even told me I will be declared the winner judging by feelers from the judges and the crowd. I was so glad I did it this time despite the fact that my visa to Jordan came out late.
What does it take to memorise the Quran?
First you need some determination and you must be able to devote quality time into consistent recitation of the Quran. No matter how tight your schedule is, you must always create time to revise the Quran because if you leave it unattended to, you may end up struggling to grasp what you may have earlier memorised.
How have you been able to combine academics with Quran recitation?
It has not been easy but Allah’s grace has helped me in surrounding the challenge. What I do while in school is that I wake up every night to recite and memorise the Quran for about an hour. Also after fajr (Subhi prayer), I will go back to revise the Quran, this I will do till 7am after which I prepare for lectures.
How supportive is the state government in promoting Quran recitation?
The state government is doing a lot in that regard just like it was the case under Dr Bukola Saraki. However, there is the need to scale up such promotion in order to dissuade our youths from partaking in social vices and align themselves on the path of Allah.
What do you intend to do with the N2.8 million you won in Jordan?
The money will be judiciously used and spread across various quarters. Don’t forget we have tutors who worked day and night to train us. We also have fathers who prayed fervently and offer us advice when necessary. Added to that is our parents who have also laboured hard and deserved to share in our success story.
How rewarding is Quran memorisation and recitation?
Quran memorisation is not about the financial benefit but an avenue to promote the religion of Islam and its teachings. Organisers of the event normally reward participants in order to project the religion and to encourage participation. I am aware countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates pay winners more probably because they are more committed to the religion and because they have better economy.
Anyone who is more concerned about the financial benefit should not put in for Quran recitation but rather, it is a way to connect with our creator; Allah.
What is your next plan?
I want to win more honours for Kwara and Nigeria in subsequent competitions. I also want to compete in Quran and Tafsir category in the future. I will devote my resources and time to this course and I believe with the support of my tutors and the Kwara State Quran Recitation Committee, we will achieve a lot for the state and the country | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Surface evaluation of titanium oxynitride coatings used for developing layered cardiovascular stents.
Stents are important medical devices used to increase the quality and life expectancy of patients with heart diseases and stroke, leading causes of death, worldwide. In order to minimize the risk of restenosis, different coating on bare metal stents (BMS) such as polymer coatings; titanium dioxide, titanium nitride or titanium oxynitride coatings; carbon coatings and others are used. The aim of this work was to develop novel stents coated with titanium oxynitride (TiOxNy) with optimal chemical, mechanical and biological properties having possibly good coverage rate of inner and outer stent surfaces. The improvement should be achieved by optimization and development of a magnetron sputtering deposition technology. The goal of the study is understanding of the existing potential for improvement of the deposition technology and the coating quality itself. For this study, different O2/N2 ratios, meaning 1/2, 1/5 and 1/10 (the ratios of reagent gasses are given for the values of mass flows into the chamber) has been selected. Stability in simulated body fluids, surface morphology and protein adsorption as well as preliminary cytotoxic behaviour of the samples on HUVEC cells has been analysed. SEM experiments have shown the potential in the improvement of coating-stent adhesion by all samples. TiOxNy 1:5 samples were found to have the lowest adsorption, the smoothest surface morphology and the smallest rate of salt deposition from simulated body fluids (SBFs). This kind of surface has been recommended for further optimization and application. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Three North Atlantic right whales have washed ashore on western Newfoundland's coast in the last few weeks, according to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), with the number of recent confirmed deaths of the endangered animals in Atlantic Canada now at nine.
"It is a catastrophe, to say the least," said Sigrid Kuehnemund, lead specialist in oceans for the World Wildlife Fund.
Last week, DFO was investigating a dead whale in Chimney Cove, just south of Trout River on the Northern Peninsula, to determine if it was a new death or one of the seven that were previously recorded in the Gulf of St. Lawrence this summer.
Now, DFO says two more dead right whales have been found at Cape Ray and Cedar Cove. Cape Ray is near Port aux Basques while Cedar Cove is near Lark Harbour in the Bay of Islands.
Nine North Atlantic right whale deaths have been reported overall since early June.
Sigrid Kuehnemund is the lead specialist in oceans with the World Wildlife Fund. (CBC)
"There's some preliminary studies that show the deaths are related to human activities," Kuehnemund said.
"Necropsies that have been undertaken by primary responders and DFO from some of the dead whales do show evidence of blunt trauma, which would be ship strikes."
One of the latest dead whales was found trailing fishing gear, with rope in its mouth and around its fin.
At least one of the whales has now been confirmed as a new death, which would bring the total number of right whale deaths to nine so far this summer. DFO is investigating to determine the identity of the other two, and their cause of death.
"Nine deaths represent one to two per cent of that population, it's a critically endangered population so these deaths are certainly catastrophic," Kuehnemund said.
The area in the Gulf of St. Lawrence is very busy with human activity since it connects central and eastern Canada to international shipping markets.
"We need the government to work with all stakeholders in the Gulf of St. Lawrence including the fishing and shipping industries other stakeholders, scientists and academics, NGOs like ourselves to reduce those direct threats," she said.
Changing ship speeds and shipping lanes as well as looking at timing could help mitigate the impact ships are having on the declining population.
Initially, the carcass at Cedar Cove was thought to be that of a humpback or fin whale. However DFO's Dr. Jack Lawson has now confirmed that it is a North Atlantic right whale.
Lawson told CBC last week that there were only 468 North Atlantic right whales left in the world. Nova Scotia researchers peg the population a little higher, at just more than 500 whales. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
SeSiSo Club
The SeSiSo Club was a political and cultural discussion group in Berlin in the 1920s. Its members were of diverse political affiliations. The club had no official existence: its name was derived from the surnames of its chairmen, Hans von Seeckt, Walter Simons and Wilhelm Solf.
The club's values were Enlightenment and Humanism. Meetings took place in the Hotel Kaiserhof with up to 400 participants, often members of the elite, discussing the issues of the time. The first meeting was on 2 January 1922 and the club continued into the 1930s.
Guests included Harry Graf Kessler, Otto Hoetzsch, Richard von Coudenhove-Kalergi, Sir Horace Rumbold (when he was British ambassador in Berlin), Ernst von Harnack, Arthur Zarden, Kurt von Hammerstein-Equord and Paul Wolff Metternich.
Although the club had little political influence, during the time of National Socialism some of its members joined various resistance groups including the Solf Circle.
Bethmann Dinner
On 29 November 1921 Seeckt, Simons and Solf entertained Walther Rathenau and Kurt von Hammerstein-Equord to dinner in honour of Chancellor Theobald von Bethmann-Hollweg, who had died on 1 January 1921 and whose birthday was on 29 November. The SeSiSo Club continued the tradition of a gala Bethmann Dinner every 29 November.
References
Further references may be found in the original article (in German).
Category:Culture in Berlin
Category:Weimar culture
Category:1922 establishments in Germany
Category:Defunct clubs and societies | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Thank you. At last, it is clear.
It solved the problem. Excellent suggestion. Thank you!
Thank you. I spent a month trying to figure this one out.
Thank you. It's easy as 123.
Thanks. I had the same problem and couldn't figure it out.
Other:
This is NOT abusive. I pressed this button by accident.It is spam / self promotion.It is offensive or harmful.It does not contain enough information.It contains or requests illegal information.It does not make sense.
"Normally used in the united states non-judicial foreclosure most lenders use the non-judicial foreclosure..."
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He someone you know should immediately call the current lender and see if they have a program for that will prevent the foreclosure all together. I am sure they have many programs available. They must communicate this financial situation to the lender.
The lender does not know about individual financial situations. The banks are willing to work with you.
Depending on the type foreclosure the lender decide to use, Arizona allow both judicial and non-judicial foreclosures.
Each lender have their own procedures as to when to file a foreclosure against a person that is behind in their mortgage payments. Some file foreclosure immediately after one payment, some as long as 3-9 months after missing your first monthly payment.
There are two types of foreclosures normally used in the United States Non-Judicial Foreclosure Most lenders use the non-judicial foreclosure procedure. No courts or lawyers are involved.
Under this procedure normally the lender has the right to sell the property after completing the foreclosure procedure. The lender, under this procedure can not normally sue for a judgment after the sale. You do not have the right to reclaim the house under any circumstance.
Under a non-judicial foreclosure and the lender has decided to foreclose on you they issue a "Notice of Default/Foreclosure" this document is recorded at the county recorders office where the property is located.
You will receive a copy of this notice in the mail as well as one will be delivered to your front door.
At this point you now have 90 days to bring the mortgage current, refinance the mortgage or do what ever you want to do to keep your property. Your lender might entertain the idea of refinancing your mortgage for you at this stage.
Once the 90 day period is over the lender then decides to record a "Notice of Sale" at the county recorders office. You will receive a copy in the mail as well as someone will deliver one to your front door. This notice will have a sale date and place of sale.
Once this document has been recorded you now have 20 days in which to refinance or cure your foreclosure. Most lenders will not entertain the idea of refinancing their own loan once this document has been issued. Some might, but most will not. At this point the lender is interested in you paying the mortgage off or bringing it current.
At the sale if the property is sold to someone, they have to get the property recorded in their name so there is lots of legal work to be done before they officially own the property.
This new owner will contact you when all the legal documents are signed and between the two of you select a time for you to move. You might be required to pay rent for the time you stay there but this is between you and the new buyer.
If the property does not sell then the lender has to get a few legal matters taken care of so they have to wait until the legal matters are completed. This normally take 5-7 business days or less.
If this happens once all the legal matters are taken care of the lender normally hires a real estate agency to take care of their real estate sales.
An agent from the agency will contact you about the date and time of your departure. In some instances they will offer you a sum of cash for you to move.
If you are not required to go to court and has not received documents from a court stating that you must appear. This is probably the procedure being used by your lender.
Judicial Foreclosure
If the lender decide to use the judicial foreclosure procedure you will be issued a summons to appear in court. The court will set the time and date of appearance as well as when you will have to vacate the property.
If the lender use the judicial foreclosure procedure they are allowed by law to file a deficiency judgment against you.
Most lenders, though the law allow them to file for a judgment do not do so. they would just rather sell the property, write any loss off and move on without other legal problems that might cost them money and then would have to collect on the judgment if they won.
On the other hand the law also allow you the right to reclaim your house after the foreclosure procedure has been completed in some instances any where from three months and in some states up to a year.
If you received a document stating that you have to appear in court and a date for you appearance has been set, your lender is probably using this procedure.
This method of foreclosure is used only by a few lenders where both procedures are allowed.
Under either procedure if the bank can not reclaim the entire loan amount from the sale of the property they claim they have a loss. Since this is a loss to them someone had to have a gain. You are the one considered having the gain, therefore the lender would then send you a 1099 indicating the amount of gain you had.
"Resident alien (based on days present in the united states..."
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And if Joel W was being upfront with his information, I think Joel W. is hoping no one actually reads his link just the parts he posted. (in part)
"Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)"
**NEW** Posted December 22, 2009
*Moratorium on NEW Acceptance Agents Applications Starting January 1, 2010
"The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) Program is announcing a moratorium effective January 1st through April 30th, 2010 on all new Forms 13551, Application to Participate in the IRS Acceptance Agent Program.
During the moratorium, the IRS will not accept or process Forms 13551, Application to Participate in the IRS Acceptance Agent Program. Only amendments to existing, approved agreements will be accepted during the moratorium. The ITIN Program will resume accepting applications during the new 2010 Acceptance Agent Open Season, effective May 1 through August 31, 2010."
"What is an ITIN?
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a tax processing number issued by the Internal Revenue Service. It is a nine-digit number that always begins with the number 9 and has a range of 70-88 in the fourth and fifth digit, example 9XX-70-XXXX.
IRS issues ITINs to individuals who are required to have a U.S. taxpayer identification number but who do not have, and are not eligible to obtain a Social Security Number (SSN) from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
ITINs are issued regardless of immigration status because both resident and nonresident aliens may have a U.S. filing or reporting requirement under the Internal Revenue Code.
Individuals must have a filing requirement and file a valid federal income tax return to receive an ITIN, unless they meet an exception.
What is an ITIN used for?
ITINs are for federal tax reporting only, and are not intended to serve any other purpose. An ITIN does not authorize work in the U.S. or provide eligibility for Social Security benefits or the Earned Income Tax Credit. ITINs are not valid identification outside the tax system.
IRS issues ITINs to help individuals comply with the U.S. tax laws, and to provide a means to efficiently process and account for tax returns and payments for those not eligible for Social Security Numbers.
Who needs an ITIN?
IRS issues ITINs to foreign nationals and others who have federal tax reporting or filing requirements and do not qualify for SSNs. A non-resident alien individual not eligible for a SSN, who is required to file a U.S. tax return only to claim a refund of tax under the provisions of a U.S. tax treaty, needs an ITIN.
Examples of individuals who need ITINs include:
* Non-resident alien filing a U.S. tax return and not eligible for a SSN
* U.S. resident alien (based on days present in the United States) filing a U.S. tax return and not eligible for a SSN
* Dependent or spouse of a U.S. citizen/resident alien
* Dependent or spouse of a non-resident alien visa holder
How do I know if I need an ITIN?
If you do not have a SSN and are not eligible to obtain a SSN, but you have a requirement to furnish a federal tax identification number or file a federal income tax return, you must apply for an ITIN.
If you have an application for a SSN pending, do not file Form W-7. Complete Form W-7 only if the Social Security Administration (SSA) notifies you that a SSN cannot be issued.
To obtain a SSN, see Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card. To get Form SS-5 or to find out if you are eligible to obtain an SSN, go to Social Security Administration Website or contact a SSA office. By law, an alien individual cannot have both an ITIN and a SSN.
IRS processes returns showing SSNs or ITINs in the blanks where tax forms request SSNs. IRS no longer accepts, and will not process, forms showing "SSA205c," "applied for," "NRA," blanks, etc.
Are ITINs valid for identification?
No. ITINs are not valid identification outside the tax system. Since ITINs are strictly for tax processing, IRS does not apply the same standards as agencies that provide genuine identity certification.
ITIN applicants are not required to apply in person, and IRS does not further validate the authenticity of identity documents. ITINs do not prove identity outside the Federal tax system, and should not be offered or accepted as identification for non-tax purposes.
Are ITINs valid for work purposes?
No. ITINs are for federal income tax purposes only. Getting an ITIN does not change your immigration status or your right to work in the United States."
http://www.irs.gov/individuals/article/0…;
Edit:
I did my research, I read your link and what you posted. I do not see a question about "the base of the economic collapse" Just like when I questioned your fifty foot wall and the fifty one foot ladder postings is that why you are now again defending what you say?
"Notice the Chief said I left after the previous post."
Like your selective posting, you are adding words and ideas to mine that are not there. I invite you to show where I said you left.
"When the foreclosure is over then it is necessary..."
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It depends. If you are targeting a foreclosed property then you have to depend a lot on the bank with which the foreclosed property is associated. After commencement of the process, it generally takes around three to six months to wind up the entire thing. It is completely a legal process where the court is highly involved. When the foreclosure is over then it is necessary that the bank transfers the power of attorney to the buyer of the property and this paper transfer takes around three to six weeks time usually.
Keegan.
"Basically this all procedure of foreclosure rely upon the laws and principles..."
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This question How long to foreclosures take to close, holds much importance in the procedure of foreclosure. Basically this all procedure of foreclosure rely upon the laws and principles of company or bank performing the foreclosure of any property. Mostly banks start foreclosure after 3 nonpayments. It issues the notice to warn the customer about nonpayments, if customer doesn`t react on that notice then bank has to perform auction or foreclosure.
"The answer of this question how long to foreclosures take to close is..."
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I agree with my friend ! the answer of this question How long to foreclosures take to close is, it all depends on law of foreclosure.Bank in fact starts its procedure after 3 or 4 missed payments of mortgage and then warn the person to pay mortgage if person is unable to pay mortgage then bank will take the action and it will be completed within few months. and it also depends on their will either they allow person to live in it or not.thank you.
Usually it`s 3 months of non-payment and they start the proceeding and you have another 3 months before you have to leave. You still need to call and let them know what`s going on. There`s nothing to be embarrassed about because everyone has been late on a bill at least once. For me, it`s been more than once! I`m not sure why the bank is so pushy... maybe they are being a little antsy because the failing economy and forclosures are putting a crunch on them as well. I actually just saw a news article where all the banks in Florida have boats filling their parking lot because everyone is walking away from their loan. It`s just a financial crisis right now in the US of A.
"Foreclosure process is initialized after 90 -..."
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Banks take on foreclosure process from 6 months to 2 years, it depends on your state and your lender.
foreclosure process is initialized after 90 - 120 days from the date your payment is considered late, and this will happen when you miss your next payment and your grace period (usually 15 days) has been expired.
It`s highly recommended to contact with your lender as soon as you know that you are going to miss your next mortgage payment, so that you might get other payment plans.
"A foreclosure process starts after 90 -120 days..."
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Banks foreclosure process might take from 6 months to 2 years, depending on your state laws and your lender.
A foreclosure process starts after 90 -120 days from the date you miss your payment and your grace period expires (usually 15 days).
As soon as you know you will not be able to pay your next mortgage payment, it`s recommended to contact your lender, so that you might get a longer grace period or you might reschedule your payments.
"Generally the foreclosure process takes time from 12 -18 months..."
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The mortgage company foreclosures on the person, depends upon the state where the person live. Generally the foreclosure process takes time from 12 -18 months. They start by sending the notice to the person after 90 days. After that the bank provides a deadline to him so that he pay the loan off. If he is unable to pay, he is taken to the court. The judge will issue the judgement against him for forclosure.
Tim Doubtson.
"About 210 to 270 days in judicial foreclosure..."
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The time taken by the wells fargo depends on the place where the person live. The rules varies from state to state as every state has their own rules. Generally, they take action after 90 days in non- judicial foreclosureand it takes about 210 to 270 days in judicial foreclosure. The person should get more details from the local legal officer.
Jack Powell. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Month: November 2010
Facebook is banned in China; I would assume it’s the same thing in North Korea. By the way my cousin been to South Korea by God’s grace last august and according to her it is a very nice place. A lot of locals that she talked to said they have relatives at the other side of the fence. War for them is non-sense but they have to be prepared. I think South Korea is not aggressive by her stories & observations when she was there. Come to think of it, they basically supply more than 50% of the food and power of North Korea. Moreover the guy in charge in North Korea has been just a total dictator (I suppose a lot of people in this world hate dictators), he should step down and let the people have a good life (but this of course is close to impossibility).
In the Korean War, the North Koreans were the one who crossed the 38th Parallel. History shows that the North Korean have been the aggressors hence the very reason why they are trying to create a very strong army. On the issue of the starvation in North Korea, of course North Korea will try to suppress any information that would put them on a bad light. But check on stories of those journalists who was able to get into North Korea and you’ll see why North Korea is getting desperate to get the embargo lifted. The embargo is there because an aggressive country like North Korea (put Iran also) has no right to have nuclear capability.
North Korea has been spending so much on their military but hasn’t done anything to ease the lingering starvation of their people. The best thing for that country now is to get Kim Jong Il overthrown. Liberal democracies will never go to war with each other = true or false? Liberal democracies still differ in terms of social values/culture, and I feel that decisions to go to war depend more on the culture/attitudes of the people, rather than the country’s type of political system. And not all countries and their people have reached a level where they are completely averse to the concept of war. They are characterized by rule of law, constitutional guarantee for various freedoms, and in a general a more tolerant society that is less prone to military action. They aren’t the same as illiberal democracies.
There hasn’t been any precedence in history where a liberal democracy has invaded another. But this doesn’t necessarily mean that it will never happen in future (I hope not!).The absence of evidence doesn’t imply the evidence of absence. This ‘democratic peace’ concept is just a tool to further the interests of existing liberal democracies. If the whole world was a single communist state, there would be no war to fight too, unless aliens come and fight us.
But in any case, if there was really an answer to this question, political science wouldn’t be called political science. It would be called science. I find it hard to believe if certain liberal democracies can justify war with non-democracies based on this concept. In reality, liberal democracy still has too many loopholes that one cannot safely trust democratic peace concept, the masses can really be asses.
A million points for originality!Well they did add yellow!the sun eventually metamorphosing to a yellow ribbon by sunset...Why the big fuss? According to the Supreme Court, it isn't plagiarism if no malice was intended. 😉
I’m disappointed with the new DOT campaign! They should have consulted all sorts of people and did a study prior to launching. Pilipinas Kay Ganda sounds like an ABS CBN show….sorry! 😦 Honestly, it seems like a combination of the morning and noontime shows of ABSCBN. And besides, how do we expect non-Tagalog speakers (and I mean the foreigners and the Bisaya, the Ilonggo, the Ilocan, among others) to understand the line? Is this the best that the lackluster Aquino government can do to promote our country? Why change Wow! Philippines? I always thought it to be simple, direct, and catchy. I thought it was on par with “Malaysia Truly Asia” and “Seoul, the Soul of Korea”. I don’t like this new line one bit, the first line of the article says it best: it’s a hard-sell line.
Lessons here: if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. And, branding is about consistency. The brand name is PHILIPPINES. That’s the name the entire world is aware of.The Philippine Government (Student Council) wants to re-brand PHILIPPINES? They confuse witty sloganeering to Branding? Who is advising them?”Pilipinas Kay Ganda” sounds barok. We hear people say “Umagang Kay Ganda” but “Pilipinas Kay Ganda”?If the slogan was meant to attract foreigners, why is it in Tagalog? Wow Philippines was much better.It should’ve been in English too..not very effective if it’s in a language only the locals know.Think out of the box? I think it’s a case of thinking too much and losing the common sense.Seems to me what’s going on is …always work-in-progress. How I wish they hired real pros in marketing and in marketing communication rather than friends from the election and yet, the website (already pulled out by the DOT) is in english http://www.beautifulphilippines.com. Isn’t “being beautiful” is what everyone wants to say? They should have given a unique selling proposition about the Philippines. This line is lame. I couldn’t help but think that the only reason they changed the “Wow! Philippines” line because it is associated with the former President Arroyo and Senator Gordon.
Half of time selling this to foreigners will be explaining what ‘Pilipinas kay Ganda’ translates to. By the time we’ve explained, they would have probably booked flights to Malaysia or Thailand already. Common sense!After spending so much time and effort to build the old “Wow! Philippines” brand, they’re gonna replace it with this?
They could have done better with the old “Mabuhay! Philippines!” slogan. They said that it’s a departure from… what our neighbors are doing, but what they’re doing works. It’s a hard sell, it’ll make their tourists go coz they don’t know what it means. Mabuhay at least is on par with “Aloha!” or “Ni hao!”, and “Wow!” unfortunately, we were working on making that phrase associated with the Philippines,”Pilipinas Kay Ganda” sounds like we’re competing amongst ourselves when we should be out there competing with our white sands and beaches… to that of Malaysia and Thailand’s. There’s absolutely no international appeal to this tagline when the whole world is suppose to be our market. I surely hope this is not the best they can do.There is such a thing we call as benchmarking. The Philippine tourism officials have to benchmark our campaign to destinations similar to ours such as Thailand, Malaysia and even Indonesia. Only then after the benchmarking coupled with the basic SWOTs of this world can we truly compete. Given that the SWOTs are done in a professional way, we would realize that despite our Strengths, the Weaknesses outweigh it. That way, we can address the Opportunities. But I think the O will not be concertized considering the Aquino government has fallen in-love with budget cuts. We really need to have that nation-branding asap.This is the perfect example of how comfortable the aquino administration is with mediocrity. If they need help to get their work done right, maybe they should try hiring/asking for help from the opposition, if they really mean well.
Amazing Thailand… Malaysia, Truly Asia… Your Singapore… Hi Seoul, Soul of Asia… Discover Hong Kong… Incredible India…The competition is tough and that’s what they came up with?Now, a pop quiz. What’s common among the slogans that I just enumerated? THE USE OF ENGLISH! The universal language of Tourism! Why did the DOT miss this? I think it’s another example of the contradictory nature of our culture: we want to be unique yet we choose to mimic the ideas of other countries like the US because we think they’re “better”. We are known for our hospitality and friendliness, why can’t we go back to that? President Aquino had a hand in making the logo? And all along I thought he was a macro-manager. He should leave marketing to the experts. But it seems that he has surrounded himself with mediocre people. What a waste of time and money. And, not to belittle the cute animal, but why a tarsier in logo? ”The DOT is set to roll out the final version of the new Brand Philippines by February 2011. Those behind the new logo and slogan, it seems, will have more time to decide if President Noynoy Aquino’s personal touches on the logo—the smiling coconut tree and the tarsier embracing the first “i” of “Pilipinas”—stays.” The tarsier thing could be traced to the fact that it’s unique to our country, on top of being cute when turned into a cartoon/caricature. Think koala of the Philippines.
The tree is okay, I think I’d rather use just that and leave the tarsier out. Then again, overall, the logo sucks ass. As Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago said, the people behind this did not use their neurons. If I were Pres. Aquino and Sec. Bertie Lim, I would borrow the invisibility cloak of Harry Potter.
You have earned my respect, Manny. 8 titles in 8 different divisions are no mere feats. Congratulations Manny PACQUIAO!! You make us proud!!! You looked like you didn’t want to totally knock out the enemy. Haha!!:0) you are so humble & kind. Also very prayerful. We are soooo PROUD!!! Mommy Dionisia raised you well. :0) David Vs Goliath! this time Goliath was Manny and David is Margarito – He missed his slingshot aim this time!!! :)President Obama wants to know if they can build a huge Manny Pacquiao statue to scare off Mexicans from illegally crossing the US border.Or they can also put up statues of banged up Margarito, de la Joya, Marquez, Morales, Cotto, Barrera, Diaz, Hatton and Clottey across the length of the US border, like those banged up cars they put at railroad crossings to remind motorists.
Poor me I just watched it on live streaming on the internet . The scores were 120-108, 118-110 and 119-109 in favor of the Sarangani Province congressman.Not only did he beat margarito, he destroyed him, I watched the whole fight..you couldn’t even see his face.
Pacquiao overcame a larger opponent just by persevering. Something we Filipinos should look at. We will never get to see success if we expect it in an instant. The road may be long, but the reward may be tremendous.Tremendously classy and compassionate guy. He spared Margarito serious damage (if not the worst) in those final rounds. That fight should have been stopped. I wish people here (myself included) could fully understand how important he is for your country and our world. We’ve waited a long time to see a champion like Manny Pacquiao. Such a pleasure to cheer for. I hope he becomes even greater outside the ring than in it…as hard as that is to imagine.
This new Facebook (FB) font size is JUST TOO SMALL for my eye-glass-wearing eyes! So it’s easier to ignore annoying status updates? And actually placed it below the profile name so we can stop referring to ourselves in third person. hahaha! I guess it’s up to us to make the content compelling enough to read despite the small typeface. :p FB should have an option inside its platform to minimize or maximize the font size depending on the user’s need…Some consideration please dear Mark Zuckerberg!:( Please give us lowly people the option to adjust the font size depending on our own capacity to see things clearly.
I almost fell off my seat when I read that Mai Mislang was a cum laude graduate from University of the Philippines in tourism course, batch 2007. This means she is scholar ng bayan and as such, the taxpayers shouldered her education. She may have academic excellence but she is surely lacking on the basic values of what education is for. I remember in elementary and high school, we were taught Good Manners & Right Conduct (GMRC). This helped us with the proper way we should behave in public. This Mai Mislang ostensibly Lacks Breeding and without meaning to be sarcastic, I think she also needs our Compassion because she obviously was NOT taught GMRC in school nor in her home by her parents.
I cannot imagine all these people seating in high places who does not have any clue on what is GOOD MANNERS AND RIGHT CONDUCT.Mai Mislang is not a kid, she’s an assistant secretary in the Philippine government ! In her linked-in profile, she stated that she’s a communications expert. How can you be holding that post & supposedly be in the fields of public relations and communications when you do not even know respect & tact.Secretary Ricky Carandang, defended Mai Mislang, it appears that people working with President Noynoy Aquino have NO respect for the positions they occupy in Government under his administration. At DILG, there is Under Secretary Rico Puno. Now, at the Office of the President in Malacanang, there is Asst . Sec. Mai Mislang. The Palace speechwriter and her boss, Sec. Ricky Carandang, are a DISGRACE to the Philippines and the Filipino people. That is what happens when
young and puerile people are appointed to high positions in Government they apparently do not even deserve. It obviously cheapens the rank of their positions.
Twitter is another medium – highly public & instantaneous at that. Public officials (especially alter egos of their appointing power) risk hurting sensitivities or breaching confidentiality when tweeting. Twitter has a “breaking news” element, but unfortunately speed comes at the price of thoughtfulness. I was told this Apparently she’s deleted her Twitter account already. But the sad thing, her tweets prior to the Vietnam snafu are still cached in cyberspace.Let’s not slide to complacency and take the blunders of the Philippine government, not least the Executive Department, people paid by the public are not there to commit basic mistakes. Have we not learned our lesson from the one who originally said “I am sorry” on TV? Let’s have ZERO TOLERANCE for avoidable mistakes. The sin of Mai Mislang is clearly AVOIDABLE that is why it is so SERIOUS. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
[Evaluation of the usefulness of bronchoalveolar lavage for prognosing and monitoring the treatment of patients with chronic allergic alveolitis].
In 29 patients with chronic allergic alveolitis broncho-alveolar lavage BAL and lung function tests were performed before and after one year of Prednisone treatment. We observed significantly (p < 0.001) decrease of BAL lymphocytes from 52% to 32% and significantly (p < 0.001) increase of BAL macrophages from 33% to 54%. We found negative correlation between percentage of BAL neutrophils before treatment and annual changes of DLCO (r = 0.37 p < 0.05). Annual changes of lymphocytes negatively correlated with annual changes of DLCO (r = 0.45 p < 0.02) and D/VA (r = 0.46 p < 0.02). | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
The 2nd annual PDX Hot Sauce Expo in Portland Oregon was the weekend of August 5th and 6th 2017. With over 30 Hot Sauce vendors in attendance, including the organizer and awesome host of this event Steve Seaburyof High River Sauces. The 2 day event included on day 1 – Sat August 5th, a Lucky Dog, Spicy Taco of Hell and Spicy Pizza of Doom eating challenges. Day 2 included a The Slaytanic Burrito Challenge, a Chihuahua Beauty Pageant, National Cocktail Competition called Booze & Infused sponsored by Absolut, Jameson, Plymouth Gin, and Olmeca Altos Tequila. Ending the weekend with what we were all waiting for, Finally!! the Guinness Book World Record attempt for the most grams eaten of the Carolina Reapers in 1 min.
The crew that tried to break the Guinness Book World Record for the most Carolina Reapers in a minute. Current record as of summer of 2017 held by Greg Foster of Inferno Farms
When you break records you get tattooed!
The Carolina Reaper, a cross breed of Bhut Jolokia and the Red Habanero peppers, this weapon of a pepper was bred by PuckerButt Pepper Co, “Smoken” Ed Currie to be exact. The Carolina Reaper has been the hottest pepper record holder with a Scoville Scale of 1,569,300 according to Wiki. With that said according to Winthrop University there was an individual Reaper pepper that measured in a a whopping 2.2 million SHU.
Below we Mr ‘Smokin” Ed Currie with an “unlucky” expo goer who had the nerve to try some Pepper Extracts Tincture.
OK so the rules for this Carolina Reaper eating contest were simple. Eat as many grams of Reaper Peppers in 1 minute, one the minute is up, then stand there for an addition 60 seconds without drinking or throwing up. (video coming soon) of the real action
Starting off with high hopes and full of confidence with an undertone of panic.
Parker getting the pre-hell high five of confidence from Steve
But the faces of confidence quickly changed to these for the 60 sec wait after 60 sec of shoving Carolina Reapers down your throat.
The guy behind the bandana
More Tears
Even the raining champion Greg Foster isn’t immune to the heat.
Ballsy 8 year old
So that’s enough of the 60 second of tears. Shall we go back stage and see how every one is doing? It can’t be that bad can it….Or can It. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Fashion is an everlasting topic since the day we began to pay attention to how we dressed. If you are looking for fashion, this is the right place to come. You can find the right white and red shirt here from Fashionmia’s latest and hottest collection of white and red shirt. We provide customers fashion items like white and red shirt with totally affordable price and high quality. Come discover the white and red shirt you need from our suggestion and guide to save time in choosing the most suitable white and red shirt. Have fun shopping online at Fashionmia. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Absorbent disposable articles, such as diapers, feminine napkins and incontinence garments, employ absorbent batts to absorb body fluids, such as urine. It has generally been desirable to form a contoured batt or pad which locates more absorbent material in those areas which are subjected to higher levels of fluid loading. Various types of conventional machines have been employed to manufacture such contoured pads.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,388,056 issued June 14, 1983 to F. B. Lee, et al. discloses an apparatus for continuously forming a cyclically contoured and densified air-laid fibrous web. The web has alternately spaced narrow regions with relatively high basis weight and wide regions with relatively low basis weight. Adjustable shutter plates are configured to span a plurality of transverse plenum segments to modulate the air flow through the device.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,682,761 issued Aug. 8, 1972 to C. A. Lee, et al. discloses a device for forming an elongated air-laid web. This web has a longitudinally extending central portion and integral longitudinally extending portions flanking the central portion. This web also has a generally stepped configuration with a greater average thickness in the central portion than in the side portions. The device taught by C. A. Lee, et al. employs baffles to direct more fibrous material toward the central portion of the web, and employs a plurality of valves to increase the amount of suction through the central portion of the web to induce the formation of a greater thickness at that central portion.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,005,957 issued Feb. 1, 1977 to P. Savich discloses a device which has a screen with pockets formed therein and which is employed to manufacture fibrous pads.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,973,291 issued Aug. 10, 1976 to C. G. Kolbach discloses a method and apparatus for forming discrete fibrous pads which have contoured thickness. The method and apparatus disclosed by Kolbach employ a sequence of masks which completely block off a source of applied vacuum to all sections of each pad receiving compartment except that section in which a region of a fibrous pad having a particular weight of fibers per unit area is to be formed.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,016,628 issued Apr. 12, 1977 to C. C. Kolbach discloses a device for forming an air-laid fibrous web having a medial portion of greater basis weight than flanking end and side portions. The apparatus includes a vacuum box which has an open end underlying a discrete section of a foraminous forming surface. Vacuum connection means establish a greater pressure drop across the discrete section of the foraminous forming surface overlying the open end of the vacuum box than across the regions of the foraminous forming surface extending beyond the edges of the vacuum box.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,962,753 issued June 15, 1976 to J. W. Dunn discloses a device for forming a fibrous glass strand mat. The apparatus includes a panel having a plurality of spaced apertures located underneath a foraminous conveyor. The plate creates a back pressure and a relatively static high pressure area immediately above the conveyor. This eliminates the problem of random movement of the fibers after deposition on the conveyor, and reduces the air circulation to permit an even distribution of the fibers on the mat.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,103,058 issued July 25, 1978 to L. D. Humlicek discloses a blown microfiber web having a network of compacted high-density regions and pillowed low density regions. The web may be collected on a perforated screen so that the microfibers deposited on the land area of the screen form the compacted high density regions and microfibers deposited over the openings of the screen formed the pillowed low density regions.
Conventional devices, such as those taught by the above references, have been difficult to adjust. In particular, these devices have required complicated adjustments to moveable plate elements located inside the forming mechanism, or have required complicated arrangements of compartments and multiple vacuum suction means for providing different amounts of applied suction to selected regions of a forming screen. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
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This isn't necessarily a place to learn everything you need to know about eating low carb, its health benefits, or how to do it - there are plenty of other places for that. But since I've been living Cheap'n'Easy Low Carb since April 3, 2004, I just want to share some of my inexpensive and simple recipes (often including the cost!), shopping tips, experiences, and the occasional link or opinion. Welcome! :)
Me - Before and After
About Me
I am middle-aged Christian lady, living quietly with my husband, 3 dogs, a cat, 7 parrots (ok, maybe not so quietly ALL the time!) in northern lower Michigan. We shop, cook, and eat low carb, the subject of my CheapEasyLowCarb blog. MyNissenFundoplication blog has all of the posts, including diet/food, relating to my recent (12/1/10) surgery. And my NEW Vita In Via blog is about all things RV and travel, including planning our future on the road! Everything else (music, faith, Lewy Body Disease, shopping, fun stuff, serious stuff, etc.) is in ChiaChatter. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Spin diffusion in double-exchange manganites.
The theoretical study of spin diffusion in double-exchange magnets by means of dynamical mean-field theory is presented. We demonstrate that the spin-diffusion coefficient becomes independent of the Hund's coupling J(H) in the range of parameters J(H)S>>W>>T, W being the bandwidth, relevant to colossal magnetoresistive manganites in the metallic part of their phase diagram. Our study reveals a close correspondence as well as some counterintuitive differences between the results on Bethe and hypercubic lattices. Our results are in accord with neutron-scattering data and with previous theoretical work for high temperatures. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Matador MB136
Matador MB136
from 6.00
This multi-color glass has two stripes of dark black, two stripes of red with thin separations of creamy white color. This bold color is easy to work and does best in a neutral flame; great in all applications. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
16875, -2/7, 40
Find u, given that 101*u**3/3 - 26266*u**2/3 - 51364*u/3 + 1048 = 0.
-2, 6/101, 262
Solve -3*p**3/4 + 96777*p**2/4 - 3765177*p/2 = 0.
0, 78, 32181
Solve 5*j**4 + 10215*j**3 + 212505*j**2 + 394385*j + 192090 = 0 for j.
-2022, -19, -1
Factor 2*f**2/7 + 2137420*f/7 - 305346.
2*(f - 1)*(f + 1068711)/7
Factor -213867*t**3 - 23517360*t**2 + 881025*t - 8250.
-3*(t + 110)*(267*t - 5)**2
Solve 2*v**4/3 - 35482*v**3/3 = 0.
0, 17741
Factor 2*m**3 - 193762*m**2 + 4694997920*m - 98509525800.
2*(m - 48430)**2*(m - 21)
Let -5*v**4 + 375*v**3 + 60285*v**2 - 438655*v = 0. Calculate v.
-83, 0, 7, 151
Find z such that 2*z**4 - 18608*z**3 + 889162*z**2 - 5424508*z + 4553952 = 0.
1, 6, 41, 9256
Factor -3*f**2/4 + 1737957*f - 13903608.
-3*(f - 2317268)*(f - 8)/4
Let -5*d**4 - 91965*d**3 - 643425*d**2 + 1562765*d - 827370 = 0. Calculate d.
-18386, -9, 1
Factor 4*u**2 - 1868916*u - 11213640.
4*(u - 467235)*(u + 6)
Determine j so that -j**4 - 769192*j**3 - 147887928376*j**2 + 10059046844640*j - 171018913856400 = 0.
-384630, 34
What is q in q**5 - 362*q**4 + 11732*q**3 + 94574*q**2 + 211179*q + 128700 = 0?
-3, -1, 44, 325
Solve k**2/4 - 20243572*k + 409802207319184 = 0 for k.
40487144
Factor -i**4 + 11386*i**3 - 36781261*i**2 + 24884171316*i - 4776436476036.
-(i - 5279)**2*(i - 414)**2
Factor b**2/3 + 9069890*b/3 - 9069893.
(b - 3)*(b + 9069893)/3
Factor 45*q**3 + 27258*q**2 + 3926460*q - 61696200.
3*(q + 310)**2*(15*q - 214)
What is r in -5*r**3 + 18945*r**2 - 17452675*r + 17433735 = 0?
1, 1577, 2211
Solve -4*x**5/11 + 39766*x**4/11 - 456756*x**3/11 - 239344*x**2/11 + 10167808*x/11 + 5084160/11 = 0.
-4, -1/2, 8, 9930
Determine v, given that -5*v**5/2 + 59865*v**4/2 + 33973525*v**3 + 9191133895*v**2 - 36968616165*v/2 + 18518341465/2 = 0.
-533, 1, 13037
Factor 2*q**3/11 - 101746*q**2 + 156577199200*q/11 + 156578318408/11.
2*(q - 279802)**2*(q + 1)/11
Suppose -3*l**3/4 - 6339*l**2/4 - 681615*l/2 = 0. What is l?
-1870, -243, 0
Find j, given that -20243720*j**3/3 - 13495812*j**2 - 6747904*j + 4/3 = 0.
-1, 1/5060930
Solve -a**2/5 + 8439144*a/5 - 17804787863184/5 = 0.
4219572
Determine z, given that -3*z**3 + 556020*z**2 - 25775414784*z + 1133042051328 = 0.
44, 92648
Factor 3*b**3 + 220638*b**2 + 4060068132*b + 121603550760.
3*(b + 30)*(b + 36758)**2
Solve -n**3/4 - 13414919*n**2/4 - 44989939161995*n/4 + 494890953988475/4 = 0.
-6707465, 11
Factor -2*h**3/11 - 5464166*h**2/11 - 3732136027360*h/11 + 3732141491528/11.
-2*(h - 1)*(h + 1366042)**2/11
Find r, given that 2*r**5/11 - 1438*r**4/11 + 271736*r**3/11 - 4749760*r**2/11 + 16352000*r/11 + 4900000 = 0.
-2, 10, 11, 350
Factor 20*d**2/13 + 12118138*d/13 - 1211814/13.
2*(d + 605907)*(10*d - 1)/13
Suppose -2*i**2/3 + 2068100*i/3 + 2068106 = 0. Calculate i.
-3, 1034053
Suppose -14*u**4/9 - 40660*u**3/9 + 396218*u**2/9 - 250640*u/9 - 11656 = 0. What is u?
-2914, -2/7, 1, 9
Factor 3*a**3 + 9900*a**2 - 289539*a + 279636.
3*(a - 28)*(a - 1)*(a + 3329)
Determine y, given that 2*y**5 + 8128*y**4 + 505268*y**3 + 4569016*y**2 - 505270*y - 4577144 = 0.
-4001, -52, -11, -1, 1
Suppose -i**3/8 + 131*i**2/8 + 11195*i/4 + 10925 = 0. What is i?
-95, -4, 230
Find f, given that 2*f**2/3 + 7114*f/3 + 1339008 = 0.
-2853, -704
Let -2*w**5/11 - 304*w**4/11 - 2500*w**3/11 + 10600*w**2/11 + 2502*w/11 - 936 = 0. Calculate w.
-143, -12, -1, 1, 3
Find c such that 2*c**5/7 - 68354*c**4/7 + 32416512*c**3/7 - 32348160*c**2/7 = 0.
0, 1, 480, 33696
Factor 4*j**2 - 285212*j + 3992184.
4*(j - 71289)*(j - 14)
Suppose -25*s**4 + 379065*s**3 + 6983079*s**2 + 2747743*s + 273258 = 0. What is s?
-18, -1/5, 15181
Solve 7*s**5 + 383*s**4 - 1524*s**3 - 235748*s**2 - 396208*s + 132480 = 0.
-40, -36, -2, 2/7, 23
Factor -2*h**2 - 858702*h + 44657912.
-2*(h - 52)*(h + 429403)
Factor 276*z**3 - 3616162*z**2 + 11844836896*z - 429156010.
2*(z - 6551)**2*(138*z - 5)
Let 4*j**2 + 3818376*j - 38184160 = 0. What is j?
-954604, 10
Suppose -5*w**2 - 61615*w + 5585850 = 0. Calculate w.
-12413, 90
Factor -2*j**2 + 80904*j + 1780856.
-2*(j - 40474)*(j + 22)
Suppose z**2/2 - 217021*z/2 - 2604540 = 0. What is z?
-24, 217045
Determine d, given that 22*d**4/3 - 12806*d**3/3 + 629790*d**2 - 7452154*d/3 - 9354352/3 = 0.
-1, 56/11, 289
Let m**3 + 2038*m**2/3 + 1765*m/3 - 61050 = 0. Calculate m.
-2035/3, -10, 9
Find y such that -5925*y**3/2 - 11096355*y**2/4 - 2225343*y/2 - 1404 = 0.
-936, -2/5, -1/790
Factor -x**4 + 889944*x**3 - 198000970726*x**2 + 395999271624*x - 197999190841.
-(x - 444971)**2*(x - 1)**2
Determine x so that -3*x**4 - 72002550*x**3 - 432031104559431*x**2 - 6048424879461300*x - 21169474729684428 = 0.
-12000418, -7
Factor 3*o**2 - 53478*o - 57251721.
3*(o - 18839)*(o + 1013)
Solve w**2 + 109792*w + 2414940 = 0 for w.
-109770, -22
Solve -3*s**2/4 + 1745433*s/4 = 0 for s.
0, 581811
Suppose 2*h**2/9 + 73577812*h/9 + 676711802338418/9 = 0. What is h?
-18394453
Determine j, given that 4*j**2 - 78026552*j - 78026556 = 0.
-1, 19506639
What is n in 3*n**4 - 10611*n**3 + 31140*n**2 + 2354316*n - 2374848 = 0?
-14, 1, 16, 3534
Factor 2*c**2/7 + 211074*c/7 + 150760.
2*(c + 5)*(c + 105532)/7
Let 5*i**4 + 67280*i**3 + 227871750*i**2 + 10371294000*i + 104525083125 = 0. What is i?
-6705, -31, -15
Find m such that -m**5 + 6345*m**4 + 1518826*m**3 + 1512480*m**2 = 0.
-230, -1, 0, 6576
Factor -3*a**3 - 3504*a**2 + 179807376*a + 612263482752.
-3*(a - 8584)*(a + 4876)**2
Suppose 5*u**5 - 30000*u**4 + 9734715*u**3 - 787950920*u**2 - 4186875600*u = 0. Calculate u.
-5, 0, 172, 5661
Factor -r**3/6 + 1194283*r**2 - 14331387*r/2 + 10748538.
-(r - 7165692)*(r - 3)**2/6
Find g, given that 2*g**3/15 + 125558*g**2/3 - 66562594*g/15 + 588019206/5 = 0.
-314001, 53
Factor -c**3 - 116562*c**2 + 932544*c - 1865120.
-(c - 4)**2*(c + 116570)
Find r, given that 5*r**4 - 14075*r**3 - 98720*r**2 - 141100*r = 0.
-5, -2, 0, 2822
Solve -2*g**2/5 + 306097616*g/5 - 11711968815110432/5 = 0 for g.
76524404
Factor 2*i**3/5 - 2025018*i**2/5 + 12150081*i/10 - 4556277/5.
(i - 1012506)*(2*i - 3)**2/10
Find q, given that 3*q**5/7 + 18*q**4/7 - 1401*q**3/7 - 12564*q**2/7 - 27708*q/7 - 16560/7 = 0.
-20, -6, -2, -1, 23
Factor 2*w**2/5 + 5132*w - 1361360.
2*(w - 260)*(w + 13090)/5
Suppose 4*d**2 + 18932616*d + 18932612 = 0. What is d?
-4733153, -1
Determine b so that -3*b**5 + 114*b**4 - 441*b**3 - 10770*b**2 + 74100*b - 63000 = 0.
-10, 1, 7, 10, 30
Factor 8*b**2/7 + 18654*b/7 - 292410.
2*(b - 105)*(4*b + 9747)/7
Find l such that -20*l**4 - 13070665*l**3 + 9803055*l**2 + 29409040*l + 6535340 = 0.
-653534, -1, -1/4, 2
Solve 3*u**5 + 241362*u**4 - 7001856*u**3 + 13279614*u**2 - 6519123*u = 0.
-80483, 0, 1, 27
Suppose 5*q**2 + 276265*q + 3590600 = 0. What is q?
-55240, -13
Factor 5*m**3 + 48855*m**2 + 54180360*m + 16006137840.
5*(m + 612)**2*(m + 8547)
Solve j**5 + 943*j**4 - 60069*j**3 + 111629*j**2 + 296540*j - 349044 = 0 for j.
-1003, -2, 1, 3, 58
Let 3*d**2 + 427596*d + 25217721 = 0. Calculate d.
-142473, -59
Factor j**2 - 32016*j + 735839.
(j - 31993)*(j - 23)
Factor 527*b**4 + 3187*b**3/2 + 1606*b**2 + 1079*b/2.
b*(b + 1)**2*(1054*b + 1079)/2
Find g such that -2*g**2 + 173165656*g - 3748293052238792 = 0.
43291414
Solve -f**4/2 - 8821*f**3 - 44084*f**2 + 149925*f + 370377/2 = 0 for f.
-17637, -7, -1, 3
Determine l so that -3*l**5/2 + 8619*l**4/2 + 218217*l**3 + 2944656*l**2 + 5050944*l = 0.
-24, -2, 0, 2923
Determine v, given that v**5/6 - 174051*v**4 + 11487289*v**3/6 - 7658176*v**2 + 39683234*v/3 - 8354360 = 0.
2, 3, 4, 1044295
Factor -o**3 + 519*o**2 + 70012881*o + 213794947561.
-(o - 9841)*(o + 4661)**2
Determine f so that -f**2/4 + 43827*f/2 - 350552 = 0.
16, 87638
Find a, given that 2*a**5/5 - 364*a**4/5 - 11568*a**3/5 - 8064*a**2 = 0.
-24, -4, 0, 210
Solve -2*u**5 + 27542*u**4 + 110194*u**3 + 82650*u**2 = 0 for u.
-3, -1, 0, 13775
Let 4*q**4 + 716*q**3 + 11596*q**2 - 89340*q + 144000 = 0. What is q?
-160, -25, 3
Factor a**4/3 - 1720592*a**3 + 6660977706766*a**2/3 + 4440656966288*a + 6660988030321/3.
(a - 2580889)**2*(a + 1)**2/3
Factor 15*j**3 + 28731*j**2 + 4505961*j - 10046714691.
3*(j + 1193)**2*(5*j - 2353)
Factor 2*y**3/3 + 2711572*y**2 + 2757222670374*y - 66173864711824/3.
2*(y - 8)*(y + 2033683)**2/3
Factor -5*g**4 - 189371340*g**3 - 2390766960893040*g**2 - 10060949844712057366080*g.
-5*g*(g + 12 | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Super CBD Plus Review
We are fortunate to live in the age, where nothing is impossible. But as we all know, every coin has two aspects, so is with this latest busy lifestyle. It’s true that it rewards your hard labor in every sense, but the side effects of this lifestyle are ‘stress and anxiety’ that in itself are a beginning of many life threatening diseases. So it’s better to understand the criticality before it’s too late and work for the prevention.
In your first step towards a healthy lifestyle, Super CBD Plus is with you. It’s a stress buster that gives you the feel of real peace and protects your health from many threats. My review is based on my own experience of an extremely busy lifestyle, occurrence of stress and how Super CBD Plus helped me get relief. Read on for more…
More about Super CBD Plus
Anxiety, depression and panic are the harsh realities of our lives that we can’t ignore, but if you’re quite conscious of every change your body goes through, then you must do something to cure the problem before it’s too late. Super CBD Plus is such a great stress buster dietary supplement that works to calm down the mental dispute your brain is going through and brings you peace. With a directional usage of this supplement, you feel lighter and a positive impact on your overall quality of life.
What Super CBD Plus Does?
Super CBD Plus reduces anxiety and stress
Keeps your mood up
Lets you feel happy
You enjoy everyday challenges without any trouble
Super CBD Plus Ingredients
Super CBD Plus is made from the oil retrieved from marijuana plant that helps you psychoactive issues in a natural manner.
How does Super CBD Plus Work?
Super CBD Plus is a marijuana based supplement that contains its oil. Among lots of dispute, there is a truth about this plant that it has many medicinal properties, that help soothe your mind from stress and tension. For that, this oil proceeds to remove off all the amounts of THC to stop you getting high and protects you from any psychoactive effect of THC level.
Super CBD + Side Effects?
The only impact of Super CBD Plus on my health and body was positive, and there are no negative effects at all. I take my dose daily as prescribed by my doctor and feel the peace in spite of a hectic life schedule.
Things You Must Know about Super CBD Plus
Keep the bottle away from children’s reach
Use it in a directional manner for safer results
Keep it away from moisture or heat
Store the bottle in a cool and dry place
Consult a doctor before use it
How to Use Super CBD Plus?
Take the suggested amount of pills with a glass of water. Take it regularly twice daily in a directional manner. Now get ready to enjoy positive results with reduced anxiety and multiply the feeling of peace and calm.
Pros & Cons Of Super CBD Plus
100% natural and organic
Legal in all 50 states
No prescription required
Doesn’t show on drug test
Doesn’t contain any mystery or synthetic stimulants
Provides multiple health benefits
No side effects
Cons
Minors are not entitled to use it
Pregnant or nursing women should stay away from such products
If you have any medical history or taking prescription medicine, consult your doctor first before using it
It’s not available in retail outlets
Where to Order?
You can simply log on to the Super CBD Plus link given on this page and claim your exclusive package today. Order now to get rid of stress and anxiety.
Personal Experience
I was too busy with my work assignments that I never realized when the months and years changed. I aimed to have a luxurious life that was luckily fulfilled, but I was trapped in the everlasting phase of anxiety and stress. All the time thinking about work and progress could hamper my mental peace, I was totally unaware of. However, my wife has been so supportive throughout my life, and this time too, she was there with me to help me out with this problem of mine. She bought me Super CBD Plus for a cure. It worked quite well and made me feel a kind of mental peace that helped me really well to enjoy the luxury in real sense. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Lack of interaction between devazepide and 8-OH-DPAT-induced hyperphagia in the rat.
Recently, a number of studies have provided evidence suggesting that CCK and 5-HT interact in the control of food intake. However, the majority of these studies have relied on the administration of exogenous CCK to investigate potential interactions. The aim of the present study was to focus on the potential role of endogenous CCK in 5-HT-CCK interactions. Our prediction was that the CCKA antagonist, devazepide, alone would potentiate the hyperphagic effect of the 5-HT1A agonist, 8-OH-DPAT, in free-feeding rats. The results showed that devazepide, at a dose that had no intrinsic effect (1.0 mg/kg), did not enhance the hyperphagic effect of 8-OH-DPAT (100 and 300 micrograms/kg). This suggests that when serotonergic inhibitory activity is reduced by 5-HT1A-receptor stimulation, there is no compensatory increase of endogenous CCK activity to excite 5-HT neurons and thereby inhibit food intake. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Stal Ostrów Wielkopolski
Stal Ostrów Wielkopolski, also known as BM Slam Ostrów Wielkopolski for sponsorship reasons, is a Polish basketball team, based in Ostrów Wielkopolski. They play in the PLK.
History
In 2015, Stal promoted from the second-tier I Liga to the PLK. In its first season, the team finished 13th in the standings with a 12–20 record. In the 2016–17 season, Stal had a historic season as the team reached the semi-finals of the PLK after defeating MKS Dąbrowa Górnicza 3–0 in the quarter-finals. In the semi-finals, Stal lost to Stelmet Zielona Góra but won the third place series against Energa Czarni Słupsk.
In the 2017–18 season, Stal had an even more successful season as the team reached the PLK finals for the first time after defeating Polski Cukier Toruń. In the Finals, the team lost to Anwil Włocławek, 2–4.
In 2019, Stal won the Polish Basketball Cup after defeating Arka Gdynia 77–74 in the final. It was the first ever trophy for the club.
Honours
Polish Basketball Cup
Winners (1): 2019
Sponsorship names
The team has also been known as:
BM Slam Stal Ostrów Wielkopolski (2012–2013)
Intermarché Bricomarché (2013–2015)
BM Slam Stal Ostrów Wielkopolski (2015–present)
Season by season
European record
Players
Current roster
}}
Notable players
Individual awards
References
Category:Basketball teams in Poland
Stal | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Here’s what spooked the Fed from raising interest rates
Federal Reserve Chairwoman Janet Yellen speaks at the University of Massachusetts
WASHINGTON (MarketWatch) — Turmoil in the stock market and concerns about China were pivotal in the Federal Reserve’s decision to keep interest rates near zero, minutes from the last meeting released Thursday show.
In light of this, officials decided it would be “prudent” to wait for more data to confirm the economy was growing at a moderate rate and labor market conditions had improved further.
“Many expected those conditions to be met later this year, although several members were concerned about downside risks to the outlook for real activity and inflation,” the minutes said.
The rise of the dollar was especially troubling because exports were still being held down by the rise in the dollar’s value in 2014, Fed officials said.
U.S. stocks
SPX, +0.32%
initially surged, and then leveled off, after the release of the Fed’s minutes.
Fed officials have said since the beginning of the year that they would raise rates when labor markets had improved further and when they were confident inflation would move up to the 2% target.
At the September meeting, some Fed voting members said their confidence that inflation would return to 2% “had not increased” since the July meeting “in large part because recent global economic and financial developments had imparted some restraint to the economic outlook and placed further downward pressure on inflation in the near term.”
Millan Mulraine, deputy head of U.S. Research and Strategy at TD Securities in New York, said in an interview this confidence was not likely to increase at the Fed’s last two meetings of the year.
Sal Guatieri, senior economist at BMO Capital Markets agreed: “It may take more than a few months to gain this confidence.”
Most thought that their goal of healthy labor market had been met or would be met by the end of the year. That view may be different now that the September jobs report, released after the Fed meeting, showed slowing growth.
In the end, the Fed voted 9 to 1 to hold rates steady in September. Richmond Fed President Jeffrey Lacker was the sole dissent in favor of a rate hike.
The minutes show both hawks and doves were putting pressure on the moderate center of the Fed policy committee at the meeting.
The doves warned that hiking rates too soon would only push inflation lower.
The more hawkish members were concerns that delaying hiking rates “much longer” would lead to an unwanted buildup of inflation pressures. They thought the announcement of a rate hike might provide a signal of confidence in the strength of the U.S. economy.
Officials took pains to stress that the drop in stock prices before the meeting was only important as far as it impacted the U.S. central bank’s forecast for jobs and inflation.
The minutes reveal that Fed officials discussed when to stop reinvestment of securities that mature from its large balance sheet. No decisions were taken. The Fed staff said studies made it seem like it didn’t matter if the central bank took this step soon after the first rate hike or decided to wait. But continuing to reinvest securities until rates were well above zero could help if there was an unexpected adverse shock.
The Fed staff was notably more downbeat than their bosses.
The minutes show the staff forecast was weaker than at the prior meeting at the end of July even though most economic indicators were above expectations.
While the staff’s forecast for growth in the second half of this year was unchanged, the staff lowered its projection for economic growth “over the next several years” as a result of the market turmoil and the stronger dollar. The staff also thinks inflation would remain below the Fed’s 2% target even at the end of 2018.
Intraday Data provided by SIX Financial Information and subject to terms of use.
Historical and current end-of-day data provided by SIX Financial Information. Intraday data
delayed per exchange requirements. S&P/Dow Jones Indices (SM) from Dow Jones & Company, Inc.
All quotes are in local exchange time. Real time last sale data provided by NASDAQ. More
information on NASDAQ traded symbols and their current financial status. Intraday
data delayed 15 minutes for Nasdaq, and 20 minutes for other exchanges. S&P/Dow Jones Indices (SM)
from Dow Jones & Company, Inc. SEHK intraday data is provided by SIX Financial Information and is
at least 60-minutes delayed. All quotes are in local exchange time. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Tara Thal
Administrative Assistant
Tara Thal grew up in Colorado and started working in the legal field in 2006. After graduating with an Associate’s Degree in Video Production, Tara went to Metropolitan College of Denver and obtained her Bachelor’s in Rhetoric and an Associate’s in Journalism with emphasis in Writing. From there, Tara started working various jobs in downtown law firms. Realizing that she wanted to continue working in firms, she went back to school and became certified as a paralegal.
Today, Tara, who is a proud mom of two beautiful boys, works as a Legal Assistant in the Boulder, Colorado office where she assists attorneys and paralegals with administrative duties. Previously, Tara worked as a paralegal in Trust and Estate Administration and Trust and Estate Litigation. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Headlines:• The EA and Take Two FiascoEA extends the deadline for its hostile takeover of Take Two. Finally, we share our thoughts on the issue.• Trailer #4The "final" trailer of Grand Theft Auto IV.• Rockstar Social ClubRockstar announces the Rockstar Social Club in preparation for the release of Grand Theft Auto IV.
Have a Question of the Day for us?PM me with the subject "Question of the Day", and tell me what you want us to answer. Make sure the question can be answered with YES or NO, or is an otherwise simple choice. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
I barely glanced at this in posting it to Headlines because I thought I already knew what it would say. Holder’s whining last week about how high the standard is to convict someone of a federal civil rights violation suggested that the tone of the DOJ’s Ferguson report would be more “he’s probably guilty but we just can’t prove it” than “he’s innocent and was railroaded by the media.”
My mistake. The DOJ — Eric Holder’s DOJ — is clear as can be that it thinks Wilson was justified in shooting Michael Brown. Rarely do I send you off somewhere to read something at length but trust me on this: Go here, scroll down to the bottom of numbered page 80, and keep reading through page 85. I assumed, I guess, that the report would focus more on attempts to sniff out racism in Wilson’s character (e.g., “Wilson’s friend Joe Schmo said he’d never observed any racist behavior by Wilson towards African-Americans”) as circumstantial evidence that he’d shot Brown out of animus than a careful analysis of the shooting itself replete with commentary on the credibility of various witnesses. What we got instead was a considered argument that not only is Wilson not guilty of a federal civil rights charge, he’s not guilty of a criminal offense of any sort. Had Wilson gone to trial, he could have submitted this as his motion to dismiss and the court might well have torpedoed the indictment before opening arguments. I’m bowled over. It reads like it was written by his own defense attorney.
I’ll give you a taste here. Page 82:
“[S]everal of these witnesses said they would have felt threatened by Brown and would have responded in the same way Wilson did.” Meanwhile, Wilson will live the rest of his life in mortal fear of being killed in revenge thanks to our “white cop murders surrendering black teen in cold blood” media. Page 84:
Lots more at the link about how the most damning witnesses against Wilson, the ones who claimed Brown did nothing more than try to surrender, were easily exposed as liars once their stories were compared to the physical evidence and testimony from others. I’m imagining Eric Holder, who went to Ferguson promising to bring the “full resources” of the DOJ to bear on this investigation, rubbing his temples as he read through to the end of what his deputies had concluded. But then, as Ace says, that’s why Holder hedged from the outset by promising to investigate the Ferguson police generally for wider racial bias. He was smart enough to know that a civil-rights investigation of Wilson, which was always a longshot, could blow up on him completely by generating the sort of total acquittal that we’re seeing in today’s report. He needed a political consolation prize. No wonder he released that report yesterday, before this one. Imagine if the “Wilson was innocent” results had dropped today as the sum total of the DOJ’s work so far.
Exit question: Would Eric Holder, after reading this report, have brought charges against Wilson if he had been the St. Louis D.A.? Bob McCulloch, the St. Louis prosecuting attorney, ate mountains of crap from the left when he couldn’t obtain an indictment. Does Holder think he could have, or should have? | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
It was 2005, and Alvernia — then Alvernia College — was a hidden gem. Known for providing students with an education steeped in the values and ethics practiced by its founders, the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, the small school had a great regional reputation in Berks County but was nearly unheard of beyond its borders.
A decade later, the “little school on the hill” has given rise to a fast-growing, nationally recognized university that has built a reputation as a true community partner to the City of Reading and the Berks County region. Its programs, both on campus and online, now attract strong interest at the graduate and undergraduate levels. They draw students from throughout the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond who leave campus as educated leaders prepared to “do well” and “do good,” and ideally positioned to take businesses and nonprofit organizations to the next level.
Today, with nearly 3,000 students, 100-plus faculty and regional centers in Philadelphia and Schuylkill County to complement the 121-acre main campus in Reading, Alvernia is a success story and the envy of more than a few institutions that have not fared as well during the difficult economic times of the recent past.
Its transformation has been shepherded by a group of highly involved and committed board members, comprised of business and community leaders who have guided the university’s leadership and strategy. Most recent board leaders point to one common denominator for Alvernia’s progress over the last decade: its visionary leadership, guided principally by President Thomas F. Flynn.
Flynn, who came to Reading in 2005 fresh from a key role with the Council of Independent Colleges and prior to that, president of Milliken University in Decatur, Ill., was quick to organize a strategic plan and process that has guided Alvernia to become the institution it is today. Kathleen Herbein ’95, a visible community leader who was then an active trustee and later served as board chair from 2008 to 2010, led the presidential search that brought Flynn to Reading.
“He epitomizes Alvernia’s commitment to providing affordable quality education and preparing learners for personal achievement, social responsibility and moral leadership,” she said. “We couldn’t have found a better match for our school at the time.”
The right choice
Today several of Flynn’s attributes make it clear that he was the right choice for president, Herbein says, such as his commitment to building connections to the community, his belief in transparency, the importance of building an effective team to drive changes and the significance of the school’s Franciscan values.
“The guiding principle has been adhering to the sacred trust placed in us by the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters,” Herbein says.
Herbein says Flynn’s prowess at envisioning the role Alvernia can play in the big picture of higher education on a national scale, as well as its essential role to form partnerships throughout the area that contribute to the vitality of the region, has raised the university’s profile and earned the respect of many.
Joanne Judge, co-chair of the Health Care Department at the law firm Stevens & Lee, and chair of the Alvernia board from 2011 to 2015, says Flynn’s arrival served as a catalyst for revitalization.
“I think he brought a freshness and drive to Alvernia that we needed,” Judge says. “No one person changes an organization, but an organization’s character flows from the top.
“Much of the progress Alvernia has seen in the last decade was driven by a comprehensive strategic plan first produced in 2007 and subsequently updated in 2011,” she says. According to Judge, the document resulted from a visioning process that involved all parts of the campus and included recommendations for updating buildings, improving student services, reducing the college’s impact on the environment and enhancing the academic experience.
“It began with a good look at where we were and where we could be,” says Judge, “and then evolved to address market conditions and emerging institutional opportunities.”
One change that stemmed from this process was creation of the campus quad, today a key green space on campus that emerged from what used to be a large macadam parking lot. James Boscov, vice chairman & CEO of Boscov’s Department Stores and Alvernia board chair from 2006 to 2008, sees important symbolism in this transformation. “A central parking lot makes sense for a college built around the needs of commuter students. But a sprawling green better fits a university where a growing number of students live and learn on campus and contributes to a better overall experience,” he says.
“Attending college is one of those seminal experiences that has a profound impact on your life. Living on or near campus creates opportunities for an immersive experience in which students can more easily make friends from all backgrounds and find their roles in a distinct community,” Boscov says. “Today, Alvernia’s campus is one that we can all be proud of and that is attracting growing interest from top students.”
Becoming a university
In 2008, the brand-new quad became a fitting backdrop for a major announcement: Alvernia College would be called Alvernia University from that point forward. The move to university status helped propel the institution’s profile and sent a message to the world that Alvernia would expand its presence as a source of scholarly work and research.
“There’s an implication that universities create knowledge through research,” explains Kevin St. Cyr, senior vice president for the enterprise segment of CommScope Inc., Richardson, Texas, who assumed his role of chair of the board of trustees last summer. “We wanted to be a university with a solid foundation for research, but at the same time maintain a size and scope that enable our students to have close relationships with top faculty who want to teach and do scholarly work.”
Colleges need a critical mass of graduate programs to advance to university status. Alvernia’s first master’s degree programs began in 1999. Today, the university offers eight and counting, including very competitive programs in business, education and community counseling. The first doctoral program, a Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership, debuted in 2006. Today it has nearly 100 students working toward their doctoral degrees. Two additional doctoral programs were recently added, one in physical therapy and another in nursing practice. Both are attracting strong interest.
Adapting a great college into a distinctive university requires nimble faculty and staff, bold plans, leaps of faith and the finances to pay for it, says St. Cyr.
The effort to secure many of the needed financial resources began in 2007 with the launch of the Values & Vision capital campaign. This project was aimed at generating resources for new buildings such as the Campus Commons, expanding faculty research, increasing scholarships and bolstering Alvernia’s endowment.
The campaign’s initial goal of $27 million seemed tremendous, especially with the coming of the Great Recession the following year. But the campaign succeeded in raising nearly $32 million before closing in 2013. “That has allowed us to do so many of these ambitious projects. That and the fact that we’ve had so much confidence in the institution,” St. Cyr says.
He and his predecessors say this confidence, plus an institutional profile that continues to rise, and a resolute commitment to the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters’ core values, has been key to Alvernia’s success and will continue to be in the future.
“The best thing about Alvernia is, it lives its mission,” Boscov says. “It’s easy to state your mission, but here’s an organization that lives its mission in everything that it does. That is what makes this a truly distinctive Franciscan university.” | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
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Next-Generation 'Atomic Clocks' in the Works
Photonics.comApr 2004
GAITHERSBURG, Md., April 21 -- Three of the world’s premier measurement laboratories have lined up the "hash marks" from four of the world’s best optical frequency rulers and declared that they match. The experiments are a significant step toward next-generation "atomic clocks" based on optical rather than microwave frequencies. Such clocks are expected to be as much as 100 times more accurate than today’s best timekeeping systems. Applications for ultraprecise timekeeping include navigation, telecommunications and basic scientific research.
Physicists from the Commerce Department's National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and collaborators compared the operation of four femtosecond laser systems of different designs -- two systems built at NIST, one by the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures in France and one by East China Normal University in Shanghai. The experiments were reported in a recent issue of the journal Science.
Optical "rulers" are lasers that emit pulses of light lasting just 10 femtoseconds (10 quadrillionths of a second, or 10 millionths of a billionth of a second). The experiments demonstrated that femtosecond laser devices could be used to reproducibly generate and accurately control the frequency of electromagnetic fields, a critical step in taking the measurement of time beyond its current accuracy level of about 0.1 nanosecond per day (i.e., losing or gaining no more than about 0.1 billionths of a second per day).
These devices are called “frequency combs” because a graph of the oscillating electromagnetic waves looks like the teeth of a hair comb. The output of these frequency combs can be used as a ruler for measuring time and frequency. For instance, a femtosecond frequency comb can reproducibly divide an interval of an hour into 10 quintillion (one followed by 19 zeroes) segments of equal time. The combs could also be used to make ultraprecise length measurements.
Until a few years ago, the femtosecond laser devices were the missing link in the engineering of optical atomic clocks. The world’s current best atomic clocks, such as the NIST-F1 laser-cooled cesium fountain clock, are based on microwave vibrations in atoms with a frequency of about 9 billion cycles per second. While this is very fast, electronic systems can accurately count these vibrations.
But no electronic systems exist that can directly count the optical oscillations in atoms such as calcium and mercury at about 500,000 billion cycles per second. A frequency comb, functioning like the electronics in a conventional clock, would be used to divide the very fast oscillations of future optical clocks into lower frequencies that can be linked to microwave standards such as NIST-F1 and compared to distribution systems such as the global positioning system (GPS) and broadcasts from NIST’s radio stations.
"These lasers are the gears of our next-generation clocks," said NIST physicist Scott Diddams. "Our experiments made certain that the gears will run smoothly."
The team compared the devices in pairs, with reference to a third device arbitrarily chosen as a standard, on six days over a period of several months. The teeth of two combs were lined up and then a radio frequency “beating” technique -- the optical equivalent of using a tuning fork to determine how closely a piano key is tuned to the correct note -- was used to check the exactness of the match.
The NIST experiments are the first to compare the operation of multiple femtosecond frequency combs -- thereby demonstrating reproducibility -- and to verify that both the starting position of a comb and the spacing between the teeth can be controlled precisely.
The lasers used in the experiments emit light across a broad frequency range, from the visible to near-infrared parts of the spectrum. This versatility enables scientists to design frequency combs with teeth that match various optical frequency standards now under development, which, in turn, allows much better performance and increases the likelihood of practical applications resulting from the technology. One key application would be optical clocks much more accurate than today’s best clocks, such as NIST-F1.
Femtosecond frequency combs could be used to make more accurate optical clocks that could help answer research questions such as whether fundamental physical constants -- essential to many practical calculations made in science -- have changed very slightly over billions of years. NIST scientists have already used optical clocks to set limits on changes in one fundamental constant (the "fine-structure" constant that describes the strength of the electromagnetic force). the NIST said. Further studies of this type could help develop a better understanding of the fundamental laws of nature.
Scientists from OFS Laboratories in New Jersey collaborated on the frequency comb comparisons with the team from NIST and the French and Chinese institutions. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
30 comments:
The bottoms are doing nothing for me. Athleta just sent me a $10 off coupon that I might use. They seem to be doing away with their Sonar crops, though. If anyone knows the equivalent bottom that uses the same fabric as the Sonars let me know.
I'm totally conflicted about Lulu these days. Although there were some items tonight that tempted me - the polar pink energy bra & crb, as well as the simply bare tank - I feel like this stuff is so "basic" relative to things other boutique brands are putting out (like Varley, Alala, Werkshop, L'urv, etc). I just bought 5 CRBs on WMTM and part of me is like...why??? Yeah, good price, but maybe I should be putting my money to unique pieces, not more basic ones. Having said that, the advantage of basic is that it's so easy to wear, practical and functional. Despite the quality of Lulu decreasing over the years, there are still features to Lulu's pieces that I find superior to these other brands - continuous drawcords in the run/train leggings, pockets, performance friendly and not just nice looking for athleisure purposes. I don't know. I wish Lulu would take more chances and put out some more forward designs rather than clearly focusing on their bottom line.
SOOO boring! Lulu has been such a disappointment for I don't even know how long. Thanks to IG I've discovered so many newer edgier brands. Carbon38 is the place that houses a lot of these brands. Obsessed. Buh bye Lulu and your frumpy boring stuff.
Ugh on all this! Been wearing my vintage lulu cold weather running gear. Pullovers with every detail: cuffins, key holders, pockets, etc feminine fit. Really wishing I had bought extras. I'm marveling at the feel of the fabric so soft rulu with ruffles. I can't see or feel anything similar to those older pieces any more.... so sad. It all seems boxy shapeless and no technical features. The winter run gear used to be my favorite and I keep waiting for something to pop up but continues to get worse.
I think I'm over it. This merchandise looks so pedestrian and like stuff you would find at LL Bean for less. What is the deal with the RBF on the models? I miss the models from years ago who smiled like they were actually happy to be wearing the clothing.
I can't tell one upload from the last. It is easy to pick out the items that aren't selling well because they stick around in the "what's new" section week after week.
Luluaddict you should buzz into an Athleta store if you have one close. I have a terrible time with shopping their website and end up going into the store at least once a season to check everything out.
My GOD, how low Lulu has fallen. This stuff is absolute garbage. That Polar Pink print on the WUC should have come out YEARS AGO. Insulting that they think we are this stupid. I hope the rest of you are not buying this stuff, otherwise Lulu will never get better. STOP, look elsewhere.Soooo glad I have tons of old Lulu items that I held on to and still have tags on them. Very sad to see this downfall.
I went to lulu the other day because i had a credit for a pair of pants that had pilled so bad I couldn’t wear them — the fifth one in a few years. I had decided I’m not buying more pants at lulu anymore — they simply do not hold up as well as other brands, and I’m tired of their slow and cumbersome quality guarantee.
So I thought maybe I’d get a hoodie or pullover, and grabbed quite a few to try on. First, they had only about 3 colors, and all were dark and drab. But, worse, every hoodie I tried on besides the scuba was boxy, droopy and fit terribly. Even worse than that, the prices are insane! A few baggy, shapeless sweaters and hoodies are $150! C’mon! While the scubas have a better fit and more color choices (although nothing exciting), the material does not feel worth the price. Honestly, nothing in that store seemed worth the price.
I ended up picking up an okay fleece hoodie on the sale rack just to use up my gift card, but it was still $80 for a basic black hoodie with a plastic zipper.
I’ve decided that this is my last purchase at lulu. I’m tired of paying ridiculous prices for pants that pill, clothes that are unflattering, and lackluster customer service — to return the last pair of pants, I had to go through three different people to get someone that didn’t try to tell me I don’t know how to care for my stuff.
There are too many other brands out there that are just all around better, less expensive, and not nearly as frustrating.
Ugh. I'm buying almost everything from Athleta now. I hate the CRB II so I'm not even buying CRBs from lulu anymore.
I absolutely love Athleta's high rise Chats! I just bought the Salutation crops in the new Powervita fabric, and I like those a lot too! Plus, I get 20% off coupons regularly enough and they have such great sales.
I'm a bit confused: there's such big discrepancy between what most of us are saying (basically I'm over Lululemon and their boxy, basic, dreary, expensive stuff) and what Potdevin seems to have achieved in terms of revenue, projected revenue and share prices. Reading this blog (and Lulumum's) it seems Lululemon is in the final throes of their retail business, but the financial analysts seem happy. Are we just a small group of malcontents and the bigger world out there really does like what the company has become? Where's the truth?
@ anon 7:47 am - Since we don't have access to any sort of data we'd have to take guesses at what is happening. I think if we had access to same-store data we could get a better idea as to what is happening and whether our sense that the brand is fading is correct or not. Some things that are helping revenue - If you build more stores you will increase revenue, and lululemon is still adding stores. Also, don't forget how much prices have been increased, quite a few items in the realm of close to 10%,and some by a lot more so if revenue is up you can't forget it's due to higher prices. We'd need to see data on how many pieces are actually being sold vs. overall revenue to know whether this is true or not. Are your sales "better" if you are selling fewer pieces but at higher prices? Additionally, by fixing the inventory system and RFID tagging everything Potdevin also was able to make sure product gets off the store floor and into customer's hands at a higher price point, and I think that is helping their bottom line a lot. If your store is out of an item, you can look at the app and see other stores that have it, call them and they will ship to you. Additionally, when the warehouses run out of an item the website can still pull from store inventory - that is why we are seeing "popbacks" in inventory on the website a lot more, and within days. I think there is a lot less shipping back and forth from the warehouses to the stores and then back to the warehouses again, and this is saving a lot of money.
I by any means have no idea about Lulu financial situation. My 3 local stores seem to be doing ok, but who knows. However as far as LLL blog visitors go, I do think that it's a small group of same ppl, mostly older. I am saying older based on the comments on merchandise. For the most part you can tell what age group one is coming from by their fashion sense. I go to 2 different gyms and see what 20-35 age group of women is wearing and that seems to be LLL target customer. Lots of mesh, high waist, crop tops, low cut arm holes, loose tops, tie-up tops and lots of black and dark. Also , Grooves are definitely out as well as Gather and Grow type of pant . Joggers are in for sure. This's just the reality , LLL won't make stuff that majorly of costumers don't want anymore
Adding to what LLA said, we're a small community who follow this stuff really closely because we used to spend buttloads at LLL. Essentially, the company traded us for lots of mass market customers who will only buy a few pieces a year, but who isn't really that particular about them.
And while Potdevin's spin is nausea inducing, I don't think they're actually cooking the numbers. When I walked by Lulu stores at Christmas, there were lines. I didn't go in, because there's nothing there for me, but for every one of me, there are ten new customers whose teenage daughter wants something - anything - from LLL for Christmas.
I've been watching a few of the items on the site with interest. The Lightly Jacket has two reviews and a 1 star rating and yet, some sizes of white are totally sold out. So basically, people are buying the stuff, they just don't really care about it enough to leave a review or follow a blog.
Anon 2:17, yup that's what I'm seeing at my gym. Ppl wear one lulu item maybe, I'm probably the only one who is all wrapped up in LLL. It was different 6 years ago when I got first hooked up. There wasn't much to choose from, it was Lulu or UA or Nike. Nike never appealed to me, it's not sexy imo. UA usually only has 2-3 colors and they are neons. So LLL was the way to go. Now with all the variety of brands that make athleisure people don't get addicted to brands. It's more important for LLL to sell a pair of pants to some random college girl than to keep my addiction going given that I already reached my saturation point with workout stuff
@ anon 7:39 am, @ anon 7:45 am - I went to Athleta today and was really surprised by how much I liked what I tried on. I usually grab like 30 items and leave with nothing. This time I liked about half a dozen things. They have a new fabric - Powervita - that seems like a nulu challenger except it's a bit thicker and a little more compressive. I got the Salutation Crops, which seemed like an Align dupe except priced at a nice $69. I also tried items from the new Sculptek line, which seems like power luxtreme. More of their pieces are nylon/lycra now instead of polyester and lots of things were super soft. I'm used to their fabrics being scratchy. I can see why people are turning more and more to the brand.
Like seemingly everyone else I haaatttteee the winter colors. :(. Not a fan of the prints and one can only buy so much black. Was happy to see some bold colored hi rise wunder unders added to we made too much this week. Hoping spring breathes some life into the collection because, for as much as many seem to be disappointed with the quality, I haven't found a good replacement for luon elsewhere.
About Me
For 18 years I was an electrical engineer working in communications satellite system engineering. I've worked at Boeing, Booz, Allen & Hamilton, and General Electric. For the past ten years I've been a stay at home mom who keeps busy volunteering in my community and chauffeuring my three children to their activities. I live in Orange County, California.
The inaugural Sea Wheeze inspired me to take up running two years ago. I have completed ten half marathons and have three more scheduled for 2015. I mostly run these days but also go to the gym ~3-4 days a week for spin class, weight lifting, and cardio.
I discovered Lululemon six years ago and really liked the fit and performance of the clothes. I do check out other brands so if you would like me to review your product please contact me.
If you would like to contact me, my email address is [email protected]. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Q:
Mongoose Populate in Node JS
I've been trying to follow the information in Mongoose Population, but I'm getting the exception:
MissingSchemaError: Schema hasn't been registered for model "undefined".
The code I have goes like this:
mongoose = require('mongoose');
Schema = mongoose.Schema;
mongoose.connect(MONGO_SERVER);
ObjectId = Schema.ObjectId;
var FirstSchema = new Schema({
label : String
});
var SecondSchema = new Schema({
first_id : [{ type: mongoose.Schema.ObjectId, ref: 'First' }],
type : String,
...
});
var first= mongoose.model('First', FirstSchema);
var second= mongoose.model('Second', SecondSchema);
function test() {
...
second.find({}).populate('first_id').exec(function(err,data){return true;});
...
}
And the error occurs on the populate, I've tweaked it a number of times to different answers found on forums, and I'm sure it will be something simple, but can someone point me in the right direction?
Cheers.
A:
In your schema definitions, I see that you have defined 'first_id' as an array in Second schema. Compared to a relational database, this will be like an one-to-many relationship in which the parent table is the Second collection, and First collection as the child. Then you're doing wrong trying to populate the second with the first.
Suppose I have a Users collection, and a Clients collection, in which each client has an user related to it. Then the code will be:
var mongoose = require('mongoose');
mongoose.connect('mongodb://userName:password@server:port/dbname');
var conn = mongoose.connection;
conn.on('error', console.error.bind(console, 'connection error:'));
conn.once('open', function callback () {
console.log('connected ');
});
var user = mongoose.Schema({
userName: String
});
var client = mongoose.Schema({
fk_user: { type: mongoose.Schema.ObjectId, ref: 'Users' },
name: String
});
var UserModel = mongoose.model('Users', user);
var ClientModel = mongoose.model('Clients', client);
ClientModel.findOne().populate('fk_user').exec(function(err, c) {
if (err) { return console.log(err); }
console.log(c.fk_user.userName);
});
Hope this give you some point to help.
| null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Before we get to the storage part, we need to declutter and get organized as this makes a home appear relaxed and comfortable. Discard damaged and duplicate CDs and DVDs, and keep all the good ones in front of you. Pick any of the 9 ideas we've mentioned below, and work from there. You'll be able to sort, organize, and store all the items before you know it.
A pegboard is a perforated hardboard containing evenly-spaced drilled holes to store items like workshop or garage tools or kitchen utensils, among others. The board is made of hardboard, wood, or metal, and its pre-drilled holes are used to hold pegs and hooks in order to support various tools. A typical pegboard is prepared of wood fibers and some amount of resin. The board is fortified with a thin coat of linseed oil and is then heated at high temperatures to polymerize the oil. This increases its durability, impact resistance, hardness, and tensile strength.
Also, check with local authorities if it is legal to build an outhouse, and if not, then taking permission becomes an important task. Not all, but in some areas, the permission of the local authority is mandatory. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
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Stephen is a junior at MIT majoring in Comparative Media Studies and Computer Science. He joins the Center for Civic Media through the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program, assisting with graphic and user interface design for the Vojo blogging platform. Previously, he did research with the Singapore-MIT GAMBIT Game Lab and the Berkman Center for Internet & Society, and helped run 21CB, a weblog on Asian politics and pop culture.
Stephen was first drawn into the field of internet studies through his interest in remix and copyright. Since coming to MIT, his research interests have broadened; today, his work examines how the new media ecology is facilitating new forms of participatory content creation, dissemination, and mutation. He hopes to further explore this topic by working with data and developing tools and visualizations that make sense of the creative cacophony that is the internet.
Binders Full of Memes: CMS.360 Project Update
The Sudden Realization Romney image macro that emerged during the aftermath of the election.
Hey all! It's been a while since my last post on the Civic Media blog, and as we enter the home stretch of the semester, it seems appropriate for me to give an update on my CMS.360 final project regarding the 2012 presidential race—what is now being called the first meme election (Know Your Meme has a great macro overview of the whole thing). In particular, I will explain how the project has developed since my initial proposal in both scope and format. First, considering how little time is left in the term, I have scrapped my ambitions of producing an interactive web app component for this project in favor of writing an academic paper. That being said, I'm still committed to utilizing quantitative methods in addition to just doing close readings of memes-as-texts—e.g. data mining and discourse analysis.
Diving into the meme pool
Rather than do a broad overview of the many internet memes spawned during the election cycle as Know Your Meme has already done, I will instead focus on the subset that emerged during the debates. The purpose of doing this is twofold. For one, this will allow for the reduction of scope. Only looking at the debates drastically limits the number of examples to review, allowing for deeper drilling into a few memes. Moreover, these would all be memes originating from statements made by the candidates, as opposed to some of the other political memes, which may be rooted in absurdist humor or references that may not be immediately relevant to the election itself. Thus emerges the second benefit of focusing exclusively on the debates: the debate memes were created in real-time as responses or critiques to what the candidates actually said. Such memes are more explicitly part of the political discourse, as opposed to something like Not Bad Obama, which features the likeness of President Obama yet is not inherently a form of political commentary. Furthermore, tying the analysis to specific events introduces a whole new angle of timeliness and temporality, which should be interesting from a data perspective.
The meme is not the territory
Which brings me to my next point: the central goal of the paper will not be to break down the internet meme as a media object; rather, my paper will attempt to situate the meme as part of a broader media ecology—after all, what's a meme good for if it doesn't spread, multiply, mutate? Specifically, I will examine how the debate memes were circulated around the internet across multiple social networks, e.g. Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr, etc. I will also look at—perhaps more interestingly—how these internet memes were picked up and remediated by mainstream news outlets, popular culture, and—in some cases—the Obama/Romney campaigns themselves. Rodrigo Davies and I skimmed the surface of this topic as part of an earlier discussion; my research will surely delve into the idea of meme-as-political-strategy.
Preliminary list of memes
First Presidential Debate: Big Bird/Sesame Street
Vice Presidential Debate: Laughing Joe Biden/Malarkey
Second Presidential Debate: Binders Full of Women
Third Presidential Debate: Horses and Bayonets
I've chosen the biggest meme from each of the four debates to analyze; that's not to say I won't make references to some of the smaller memes, such as Menacing Josh Romney—I just want to keep the paper narrowly defined and focused. That's it for this project update—tune in next time, as I delve into Twitter network analysis of the relevant hashtags for these memes and play around with graph visualizations using Gephi! Look forward to it. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
The game layer is everywhere today. And now we can thank Chevy and its agency Goodby, Silverstein & Partners for bringing the game layer to this year’s Super Bowl. According to The New York Times, Chevy Gametime is a mobile application that will spit out award 20 free cars, among other prizes. Yet, simply providing […]
David Carr of The New York Times offers some food for thought in a year-end piece on changes in the media business. Here are three of his more cogent points: 1) Every cable channel with two nickels and more than a few digital enterprises is financing the kind of narrative television that used to be […]
The iPhone is now better equipped than ever to present news of the day, thanks to the recent launch of two new apps (both already popular on the iPad), Flipboard and CNN-owned Zite. According to Fast Company, Flipboard, like Zite, makes it very easy to read collected content from all your favorite publications. Time helps […]
Lawyers are not funny people, generally speaking. Lawyers in commercials are particularly unfunny. But BBDO New York is reversing those charges by presenting Will Arnett in the role of Kent Wesley, a high-powered internet attorney. There’s more from Kent Wesley and AT&T at YouveGotACase.com.
“Please tell me your new big idea has a geolocation feature in it. We need to reach prospects at the point of sale, and now we can!” The monologue above was a staged reaction to you presenting a geolocation-less campaign. Forgive my indulgences… According to a new $499 Forrester report, the percentage of U.S. online […]
Shazam is an awesome app. It listens to songs on the radio and tells you the name of the track and artist. Technology… Apparently, Shazam will also listen to TV ads. General Mills’ Pillsbury Crescents brand is using Shazam for TV to reach busy millennial moms. When viewers see the TV spot, they can open […]
According to Trend Hunter, Samsung and social media agency Jam teamed up to promote the Samsung Galaxy Note, a smartphone-tablet hybrid device with an advanced ‘S’ pen that allows for detailed drawings and sketches. The “Create My Tweet” campaign features illustrators Rose Stallard, Steven Wilson, Danny Sangra and Natasha Lawill. Here’s a bit more content […]
One of the more innovative agencies out there is Red Square Agency in Mobile, Alabama. If you’ve ever worked in a small market like Mobile, you know it’s a bit harder to attract great talent and draw buzz. But Red Square is defying that convention, and seems committed to putting itself on the ad map. […] | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Friday, 25 December 2015
Kachikwu said the NNPC has adopted a plan that would give the refineries some sort of autonomy, without privatising them.
Refineries To Pay Into Federation Account From 2016 – Kachikwu
The Group Managing Director, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, has said that state-owned refineries would make direct payments into the federation account from 2016.
The refineries are subsidiaries of the NNPC, which is the body expected to make the payments. However, according to a report by The Cable, Kachikwu said the NNPC was adopting a plan that would give the refineries some sort of autonomy, without privatising them.
In a statement by Ohi Alegbe, the corporation’s spokesperson, Kachikwu was quoted as saying high level discussions were underway with local and international investors to bridge funding gap in the sector.
Kachikwu said, “The new model is that refineries would now buy their own crude oil, refine it and make remittances to the federation account allocation committee.
“They would operate a semi autonomy system that would enable them to run in a profitable manner.”
The statement expressed the federal government’s readiness to raise funds from international investors and the private sector in 2016 to fund the joint venture cash calls between the NNPC and international oil companies operating in the country.
Kachikwu said the initiative was geared towards preventing the government from bearing the burden of funding capital intensive projects in the upstream sector of the oil and gas industry. The minister assured that the NNPC’s over 5000 km of pipelines across the country would be privatised in order to enhance efficient management of the infrastructure and bring pipeline vandalism to the barest minimum.
According to him, in another 24 months, Nigerians would see a positive change in the refinery model, to meet needs not only in Nigeria but in the West African sub region.
Speaking on the December deadline for the refineries, Kachikwu said the reports before him showed that, two of the refineries were likely to meet the deadline. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Background {#Sec1}
==========
Reports of randomised trials should provide a complete and balanced account of the findings. However, many reports are plagued by selective reporting \[[@CR1]\]. One type of selective reporting, which we call "outcome non-reporting bias", occurs when some outcomes that were measured and analysed are not reported or are partially reported based on the nature of the results (e.g. statistical significance or magnitude of effect) \[[@CR2]\]. For example, participant deaths may be counted and compared between intervention groups but trialists present no data because the effect favoured the comparator or only state that the between-group difference was not statistically significant; in this case, the summary statistics needed to include the trial in a meta-analysis are unavailable \[[@CR3], [@CR4]\]. Another type of selective reporting, which we call "bias in selection of the reported result", occurs when the effect estimate that is fully reported in a publication has been selected from among multiple measurements or analyses (e.g. trialists perform multiple adjusted analyses yet only report that which yielded the most favourable effect estimate) \[[@CR5]\]. Given the frequency with which both types of selective reporting occur \[[@CR4], [@CR6], [@CR7]\], authors of systematic reviews are encouraged to assess these sources of bias in the included studies.
Selective reporting is included as one of the core domains of the Cochrane tool for assessing the risk of bias in randomised trials (RoB tool) \[[@CR8]\]. The domain was included in the tool when it was created in 2006, in response to emerging evidence of worrying degrees of selective reporting \[[@CR3], [@CR9]\]; at that time, no existing risk of bias tool addressed the issue. Review authors were asked to judge the risk of selective reporting bias as either low risk, high risk or unclear risk and to provide reasons for their judgements. Guidance for a judgement of high risk of bias, as specified in the Cochrane Handbook \[[@CR10]\], is presented in Table [1](#Tab1){ref-type="table"}. These criteria include examples of outcome non-reporting bias and bias in selection of the reported result.Table 1Criteria for a judgement of high risk of bias due to selective reporting in the Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomised trials (2011 version)Any one of the following: (1) not all of the study's pre-specified primary outcomes have been reported; (2) one or more outcomes of interest in the review are reported incompletely so that they cannot be entered in a meta-analysis; (3) the study report fails to include results for a key outcome that would be expected to have been reported for such a study; (4) one or more primary outcomes is reported using measurements, analysis methods or subsets of the data (e.g. subscales) that were not pre-specified, or; (5) one or more reported primary outcomes were not pre-specified (unless clear justification for their reporting is provided, such as an unexpected adverse event). We consider criteria 1--3 examples of outcome non-reporting bias and criteria 4--5 examples of bias in selection of the reported result.
Limitations of the assessment of selective reporting in the current RoB tool were recognised in an evaluation of the tool \[[@CR11]\]. The problems arise mainly from the fact that assessments are conducted at the study-level, which has the following three implications:All findings from a study are considered at high risk of bias on the basis that one or more outcomes are not/partially reported. However, it makes little sense to judge the fully reported outcomes in such trials at high risk of bias by default.Review authors may judge a study at high risk of selective reporting bias but not declare in the RoB table the specific outcomes that were selectively reported (e.g. only state "Some outcomes were not reported"). This prevents readers from knowing which outcomes of the review should be interpreted with caution.Outcome non-reporting bias and bias in selection of the reported result are considered simultaneously, which is not ideal because each has different consequences. Outcome non-reporting bias in one or more trials can put the treatment effect estimate of a *systematic review/meta-analysis* which cannot include the data at risk of bias \[[@CR2], [@CR12]\]. This is analogous to publication bias, whereby a whole study is inaccessible to review authors on the basis of the results. In contrast, bias in selection of the reported result puts effect estimates from *individual primary studies* at risk of bias in the same way as other domains in the RoB tool (e.g. attrition bias, detection bias), as well as putting the systematic review/meta-analytic effect estimate at risk of bias. An example of this distinction is presented in Fig. [1](#Fig1){ref-type="fig"}. In this example, there is a high risk of bias in selection of the reported result for depression because depression was measured and analysed in multiple ways, yet only the most favourable of all possible effect estimates was reported. Inclusion of this effect estimate can bias the corresponding meta-analysis of depression. In contrast, anxiety was measured and analysed but no data were reported because the results were unfavourable; this does not bias the trial, but it can lead to outcome non-reporting bias in the meta-analysis of anxiety which cannot include the unreported data from this trial. As another example, a trialist may measure blood glucose at 3 and 6 months, yet only report the 3-month data on the basis of its large, favourable result. In this instance, a meta-analysis of 3-month data includes trial data at high risk of bias in selection of the reported result, while a meta-analysis of 6-month data which cannot include the non-reported data from this trial is at high risk of outcome non-reporting bias.Fig. 1Distinction between outcome non-reporting bias and bias in selection of the reported result
Another limitation of the current RoB tool is that it lacks clear guidance on how to incorporate the assessment of outcome non-reporting bias into the interpretation a systematic review effect estimate.
To date, there has been no evaluation of Cochrane review authors' use of the selective reporting domain in the current RoB tool. It is unclear how many studies are rated at low/unclear/high risk of selective reporting bias and what reasons are provided for the judgements; whether review authors specify the outcomes they suspect have been selectively reported, which readers need to determine which of the trial and review outcomes are problematic; and whether review authors acknowledge the risk of selective reporting bias in the synthesis when interpreting the results (e.g. state that a particular meta-analysis is missing studies with inaccessible outcome data).
The aim of this study is to evaluate the assessments of risk of bias due to selective reporting in a cross-section of Cochrane reviews, so as to inform the development of a revised tool.
Methods {#Sec2}
=======
Eligibility criteria {#Sec3}
--------------------
We included Cochrane reviews meeting the following criteria:review of a therapeutic or preventive intervention;published between issue 1 to 8, 2015, in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR) as a new, updated or amended review;included an assessment of selective reporting in the included studies using the RoB tool.
We excluded review protocols and reviews of methodology, diagnostic test accuracy and prognostic studies, because selective reporting is not a standard risk of bias domain in these reviews.
Data source {#Sec4}
-----------
All Cochrane reviews are prepared as RevMan files \[[@CR13]\] which are stored in *Archie,* a database managed by the Cochrane Informatics and Knowledge Management Department (IKMD). In September 2015, the IKMD provided us with the selective reporting judgement (low risk, unclear risk or high risk) and supporting text for the judgement, extracted from *Archie*, for all studies in reviews meeting our eligibility criteria. The IKMD also provided the title, DOI, issue number, year of publication and Cochrane Review Group of each review. Data were supplied in a Microsoft Excel® file.
Data extraction and classification {#Sec5}
----------------------------------
We categorised the supporting text of each trial rated at high risk of bias due to selective reporting. Text was initially classified under one of the five criteria specified in the Cochrane Handbook (outlined in the Table [1](#Tab1){ref-type="table"}), or as "other" if it did not meet those criteria. New categories were subsequently generated for all "other" reasons using an iterative approach. That is, category labels were generated and sometimes amended when a new example was encountered, to ensure that all categories were mutually exclusive. Whenever a category label was amended, all previous classifications were reviewed and modified as appropriate.
In addition, we recorded the specific outcome(s) that were reported as having been selectively reported (e.g. "all-cause mortality", "pain", "adverse events"). Instances where review authors did not specify the outcome (e.g. only included a statement such as "Not all pre-specified outcomes were reported") were recorded as "Not specified".
We drew a random sample of 100 reviews with at least one trial rated at high risk of outcome non-reporting bias (i.e. non- or partial reporting of an outcome) using the random number generator in Microsoft Excel®. We extracted from each review the following: total number of included studies; number of studies at high risk of outcome non-reporting bias; specific outcomes rated at high risk of outcome non-reporting bias (as determined from the RoB tables); the reviewer-perceived importance of the outcome(s) at high risk of outcome non-reporting bias (i.e. "primary" or "secondary"); and whether a meta-analysis was performed on at least one of the outcome(s) at high risk of outcome non-reporting bias.
We then examined the main text ("Effect of interventions" section), abstract and Summary of Findings table of each review and recorded whether or not review authors acknowledged that a synthesis of an outcome was missing data that were not/partially reported (e.g. stated that the data from two studies which measured a particular outcome were not reported and hence could not be included in the meta-analysis of that outcome). By "synthesis" we mean either a narrative synthesis/summary or meta-analysis of the results. We also recorded whether review authors used any of the following statistical methods to explore whether a meta-analysis was robust to outcome non-reporting bias: the bound for outcome non-reporting bias developed by Williamson et al. \[[@CR14]\], the multivariate meta-analysis approach developed by Kirkham et al. \[[@CR15]\], or the model-based correction developed by Copas et al. \[[@CR16]\]. All data extraction and classification was undertaken by one author (MJP).
Statistical analyses {#Sec6}
--------------------
The analysis was mostly descriptive, with dichotomous variables (e.g. trial rated at high risk of bias or not) summarised using frequencies and percentages and continuous variables (e.g. number of included trials per review) summarised using medians with interquartile ranges (IQRs). We used the chi-squared test for differences in proportions to explore whether acknowledgements that data were missing from the synthesis of an outcome differed according to reviewer-perceived importance of the outcome.
Results {#Sec7}
=======
Characteristics of included reviews and trials {#Sec8}
----------------------------------------------
We examined 586 reviews including 8434 studies. Reviews included a median of eight studies (IQR 4--16), and addressed a wide range of topics, with 50 Cochrane Review Groups contributing at least one review to the sample. The median number of reviews per Cochrane Review Group was eight (IQR 4--15) (Additional file [1](#MOESM1){ref-type="media"}: Table S1).
Of the 8434 included studies, the selective reporting domain was rated as low risk in 4473 (53 %), unclear risk in 2906 (34 %) and high risk in 1055 (13 %). Of the 586 reviews, 239 (41 %) included at least one study rated at high risk of selective reporting bias. In these 239 reviews, a median of 20 % (IQR 10--40 %) of the studies per review were rated at high risk of selective reporting bias.
Reasons for high risk of selective reporting bias {#Sec9}
-------------------------------------------------
Across the 1055 studies rated at high risk of selective reporting bias, we identified 89 different reasons provided by review authors to support their judgement. These were classified under nine categories (Table [2](#Tab2){ref-type="table"}; all reasons are listed in Additional file [1](#MOESM1){ref-type="media"}: Table S2). The most common reason was concern about outcome non-reporting bias, which was recorded in 819/1055 (78 %) studies. Less common reasons included concern about the documents available for assessment (e.g. "no protocol available") (59/1055 \[6 %\]), reporting of only a subset of measurements, analysis methods or subsets of the data (e.g. subscales) that were pre-specified (58/1055 \[6 %\]), and post hoc reporting of outcomes, measurements, analysis methods or subsets of the data (56/1055 \[5 %\]). We considered a small proportion of review authors' reasons to be irrelevant to the selective reporting domain (73/1055 \[7 %\]); for example, authors stated that not all randomised participants were included in the analysis or that blinding of participants was unclear. The reason for the high-risk judgement was considered unclear for 69/1055 (7 %) studies (e.g. review authors stated that "All outcomes were reported").Table 2Frequency of reasons for judgements of high risk of selective reporting biasReasonNumber (%^a^) of 1055 studiesConcerns about outcome non-reporting bias819 (78) Not all of the study's pre-specified outcomes have been reported387 (37) One or more outcomes of interest in the review are partially reported so that they cannot be entered in a meta-analysis364 (35) The study report fails to include results for a key outcome that would be expected to have been reported for such a study188 (18)Concerns about the documents available for assessment (e.g. no protocol was available or the only available report is a conference abstract)59 (6)Concerns about reporting of only a subset of measurements, analysis methods or subsets of the data that were pre-specified (e.g. data were reported for only some of the pre-specified time points)58 (6)Concerns about post-hoc reporting of outcomes, measurements, analysis methods or subsets of the data (e.g. one or more reported outcomes were not pre-specified in a protocol or trial registry)56 (5)Concerns about how outcome data were analysed (e.g. a continuous/ordinal outcome was dichotomised or adjusted effect estimates were not reported)28 (3)Concerns about discrepant reporting (e.g. outcome data differed across multiple reports for a particular study)9 (1)Other concerns (e.g. only adverse events occurring in at least 5 % of participants were reported, trialists emphasised statistically significant results even though these were less relevant/secondary outcomes)31 (3)Concerns that are not relevant to the selective reporting domain (e.g. not all randomised participants were analysed, baseline data were not reported, blinding of participants was unclear)73 (7)Unclear reason (e.g. stated that "All pre-specified outcomes were reported" or no reason stated)69 (7)^a^Percentages do not sum to 100 as some trials had more than one reason for a high-risk judgement. Review authors stated one reason in the majority of cases (817/1055, 77 %), two reasons for 209/1055 (20 %) studies and three reasons for 29/1055 (3 %) studies
Review authors did not always describe in the RoB table the specific outcome that was selectively reported. Of the 387 studies rated at high risk due to non-reporting, the non-reported outcome was specified in 326 (84 %). Of the 364 studies rated at high risk due to partial reporting, the partially reported outcome was specified in 222 (61 %). And of the remaining studies rated at high risk due to another reason (*n* = 571), the outcome of concern was specified for only 282 (49 %).
Acknowledging missing data in the synthesis of an outcome {#Sec10}
---------------------------------------------------------
At least one study was rated at high risk of outcome non-reporting bias in 181/586 (31 %) reviews; we examined a random sample of 100 of these reviews. The 100 reviews addressed various health conditions managed by 33 of the 50 Cochrane Review Groups (Additional file [1](#MOESM1){ref-type="media"}: Table S1). A median of 20 % (IQR 10--40 %) of the studies per review were rated at high risk of outcome non-reporting bias (Table [3](#Tab3){ref-type="table"}). In 79 (79 %) reviews, the outcomes that were not/partially reported were specified in the RoB tables; 27 reviews clearly described one outcome that was not/partially reported while 52 described more than one outcome. At least one of the non-/partially reported outcomes was considered a primary review outcome in 52/79 (66 %) reviews. In addition, in 51/79 (65 %) reviews, a meta-analysis was performed on at least one outcome that was not/partially reported in some studies (using data from studies that completely reported the outcome).Table 3Characteristics of the random sample of reviews with at least one included study rated at high risk of outcome non-reporting biasCharacteristicsNumber (%), of *n* = 100Number of included studies Total number of studies included in review, median (IQR)13 (7--32) Number of studies per review at high risk of outcome non-reporting bias, Median (IQR)2 (1--5) Percentage of studies per review at high risk of outcome non-reporting bias, Median (IQR)20 (11--39)High risk outcome(s) stated in the risk of bias table One non-/partially reported outcome clearly specified27 (27) More than one non-/partially reported outcome clearly specified52 (52) No outcome specified (e.g. only stated that "Some outcomes were not reported")21 (21)Reviewer-perceived importance of high-risk outcome(s) At least one was a primary review outcome52 (66)^a^ All were secondary review outcomes27 (34)^a^Synthesis of high-risk outcome(s) At least one outcome was synthesised in a meta-analysis (based on data from studies that completely reported the outcome)51 (65)^a^ All outcome(s) were synthesised/summarised narratively28 (35)^a^Location in the review where the synthesis of at least one high-risk outcome was reported Main text79 (100)^a^ Abstract63 (80)^a^ Summary of Findings table47 (59)^aa^The denominator is 79 because 21 reviews did not specify in the risk of bias table the outcome that was not/partially reported
We were unable to assess whether authors of 21 reviews acknowledged that the synthesis of an outcome was missing data that were not/partially reported, because the non-/partially reported outcome was not specified in the RoB table. In the remaining 79 reviews, few included any statement in either the main text (24/79 \[30 %\]), abstract (11/63 \[17 %\]) or Summary of Findings table (9/47 \[19 %\]) that data were missing from a synthesis (Table [4](#Tab4){ref-type="table"}; see individual comments of Additional file [1](#MOESM1){ref-type="media"}: Table S3). However, review authors were more likely to acknowledge that data were missing from a synthesis in the main text if the outcome was a primary review outcome (42 % vs 7 %; *P* = 0.0014). Use of a statistical method to explore whether a meta-analysis was robust to outcome non-reporting bias was not reported in any review.Table 4Number of reviews which acknowledged that the synthesis of an outcome was missing data that were not/partially reportedLocation of statement that data was missing from the synthesisType of review outcomeChi-squared test\
*P* value^b^Any outcome, number (%) of reviews^a^Primary outcomes, number (%) of reviewsSecondary outcomes, number (%) of reviewsMain text24/79 (30)22/52 (42)2/27 (7)0.0014Abstract11/63 (17)9/51 (18)2/12 (17)0.9358Summary of Findings table9/47 (19)7/35 (20)2/12 (17)0.8001^a^The denominators reflect the number of reviews for which the assessment was possible. For example, only 63 abstracts were assessed because the outcome that was not/partially reported in some studies was only described in the abstract of 63 reviews^b^Difference in the proportion of reviews with acknowledgement that data were missing from the synthesis of an outcome when the outcome was considered primary versus when the outcome was considered secondary by the review authors
Discussion {#Sec11}
==========
Of 8434 studies included in 586 Cochrane reviews, 53 % were rated at low risk, 34 % were rated at unclear risk and 13 % were rated at high risk of bias due to selective reporting. We classified the reasons for high-risk judgements into nine categories. The most common reason was concern about outcome non-reporting bias (i.e. non-/partial reporting of at least one outcome). Few studies were rated at high risk because of concerns about bias in selection of the reported result (e.g. reporting of only a subset of measurements, analysis methods or subsets of the data that were pre-specified). Review authors often specified in RoB tables the study outcomes that were not reported (84 % of studies), but less frequently specified the outcomes that were partially reported (61 % of studies), or which were concerning for another reason (49 %). At least one study was rated at high risk of outcome non-reporting bias in 31 % of reviews. In a random sample of these reviews, only 30 % incorporated this information when interpreting results, by acknowledging that the synthesis of an outcome was missing data that were not/partially reported.
A strength of our study is that we examined a large cohort of Cochrane reviews, which comprised all reviews published during a specific period (rather than a non-randomly selected sample). Further, collection of data on judgements (low/unclear/high) and supporting text in RoB tables was automated by Cochrane database managers, which removed the potential for errors due to manual data extraction. There are also some limitations. Only one author classified reasons for the judgements of high risk of selective reporting bias, so there is potential for misclassification. However, category labels for many reasons were re-evaluated on multiple occasions, as modifications to categories were made whenever new examples were encountered; this may have reduced the potential for misclassification. Further, it is possible that some studies we examined were included in more than one of the included reviews. Therefore, our estimates of the number of studies at low/unclear/high risk of bias may have double-counted some studies. However, given that Cochrane strives to produce reviews addressing mutually exclusive questions, we suspect that the number of overlapping studies is low. Finally, we only examined Cochrane reviews so our findings may not generalise to non-Cochrane reviews which use the RoB tool.
The percentage of Cochrane reviews in our sample with at least one study suspected of outcome non-reporting bias (31 %) is lower than that observed in previous research. This bias was suspected in at least one study in 34 % of 283 Cochrane reviews published between 2006 and 2007 \[[@CR2]\], but only the primary outcome in each review (rather than all outcomes) was assessed. When all outcomes were assessed in 46 Cochrane cystic fibrosis reviews, 100 % of reviews included at least one study suspected of outcome non-reporting bias \[[@CR17]\]. Rather than use the risk of bias assessments by Cochrane reviewers, both investigations used a 9-point classification system to assess studies (ORBIT classification \[[@CR2], [@CR18]\]), and involved methodologists in the assessment. It is possible that ours is an underestimate of the true extent of the problem of outcome non-reporting bias, because of variation in how review authors interpret the guidance for the RoB tool, and in how Cochrane Review Groups enforce this guidance. In a 2014 survey of managing and coordinating editors of 42 Cochrane Review Groups, only 57 % expected review authors to search for trial protocols as a step in performing the assessment, and only 23 % considered their review authors to be moderately or largely competent in performing assessments \[[@CR19]\]. Therefore, estimates of the frequency of biased studies based on routinely collected risk of bias assessments by Cochrane reviewers should be interpreted with caution \[[@CR20]\].
Many of the reasons for high risk of bias judgements were poorly articulated in the RoB tables. For example, statements such as "Some outcomes were partially reported" (encountered in 39 % of studies) make it impossible for readers to know which outcomes to interpret with caution unless they retrieve the primary study report. Further, statements suggesting concern about how outcome data were analysed (e.g. "trialists reported change from baseline values" or "trialists reported unadjusted effect estimates") are incomplete; it is unclear if review authors were concerned that the decision to report these effect estimates was data-driven or because they find such analytic strategies inappropriate in general. Also, rating a study at high risk of bias because "no protocol was available" means readers are left to guess whether the review authors suspect some outcomes are missing from the published report, or that the reported outcome data have been selected on the basis of the results, or both these reasons, or neither. Review authors often failed to acknowledge that a synthesis of an outcome was missing data that were not/partially reported, and this may have occurred for several reasons. It is possible that review authors believe that completing RoB tables is sufficient, without considering that readers may not refer to these tables \[[@CR21]\]. Authors may believe readers are likely to ignore any narrative description of the risk of outcome non-reporting bias and instead just focus on the synthesised effect estimate. Further, the Cochrane Handbook currently does not provide a framework to guide review authors to consider the extent of missing outcome data within a synthesis, and whether its absence is likely to have biased the result (that is, the corresponding risk of bias in the systematic review effect estimate).
Developers of future risk of bias tools could address the problems discussed thus far by adopting the following suggestions. We believe that assessments should be directed at specific results rather than at the study as a whole, to account for that fact that risk of bias may not be the same for each result. Further, we propose that tools designed to assess the risk of bias in effect estimates of individual primary studies should assess bias in selection of the reported result but not outcome non-reporting bias. Outcome non-reporting bias could instead be appraised using a different mechanism, such as a tool to assess the risk that a synthesis (rather than an individual primary study) is affected by reporting biases; this tool could also address the risk of bias due to unpublished studies ("publication bias") \[[@CR12]\]. We are currently involved in projects to develop a reporting bias tool for systematic reviews, and to revise the Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomised trials in line with the suggestions outlined above. We anticipate that these initiatives will help review authors derive more appropriate conclusions about the benefits and harms of interventions.
Conclusions {#Sec12}
===========
Our audit of user practice in Cochrane reviews suggests that the assessment of selective reporting in the current RoB tool does not work well. It is not always clear which outcomes were selectively reported or what the corresponding risk of bias is in the synthesis with missing outcome data. New tools that will make it easier for reviewers to convey this information are being developed.
Abbreviations {#Sec13}
=============
IKMD, Cochrane Informatics and Knowledge Management Department; IQR, interquartile range; ORBIT, Outcome Reporting Bias In Trials; RoB, risk of bias
Additional file {#Sec14}
===============
Additional file 1:Supplementary tables. (DOCX 57 kb)
This work was supported by the MRC Network of Hubs for Trials Methodology Research (MR/L004933/1- N61) and by MRC project grant MR/M025209/1. MJP is supported by an Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Early Career Fellowship (1088535). We would like to thank Rasmus Moustgaard (Senior Systems Architect, Cochrane Informatics & Knowledge Management Department) for supplying us with the data from Cochrane reviews.
Authors' contributions {#FPar1}
======================
MJP and JPTH conceived the study design. MJP extracted, classified, and analysed the data. MJP wrote the first draft. All authors contributed to revisions of the manuscript and take public responsibility for its content. Both authors read and approved the final manuscript.
Competing interests {#FPar2}
===================
JPTH led the development of the current Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomised trials. MJP and JPTH are members of the core group revising the Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomised trials and are leading the development of a new tool to assess the risk of reporting biases in systematic reviews. MJP is an Associate Editor for *Systematic Reviews* but was not involved in the handling of this paper or the decision to publish it.
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Q:
Wanting to change from bar end to road shifters
Just purchased a Co-op ADV 3.1 and the gearing is great, problem is I am hating the bar end shifters and would like to apply road bike shifters while maintaining the MTB gearing. It came with Deore mechs front and rear (assuming 10 spd specific) and figure I'll have to replace both as well, has anyone here had good success with something like this, and if so could you give which mechs and shifters work well? Seeing as I'll most likely have to replace both mechs and new brifters I don't really have a problem switching over to Sram if they have the best solution without having to add a shiftmate into the equation. Please help.
Well thank you for the info and such quick responses. Think I’m going to attempt a Tiagra setup with Deore (rd-m591)rear mech (research shows no such luck with the front mech). I’ll update the page as I try with my results in case someone else finds this page looking to do something similar, I know jtek makes adapter that would work (Shiftmate 6 on the rear and Shiftmate 7 front) but at around $60 apiece (not to mention additional components to fail) its still $10 more than the rear mech and almost $40 more than the front. I know it can be done, for example check out the specialized AWOL expert. Emailed them to see if they’d give me the specifics but not expecting an answer unless I actually buy the thing lol. Also I’m considering a 105 setup (other than the rear mech)...anyone have experience?
Just an update, got an email from specialized about the setup on the AWOL expert...
“Front shifter: Tiagra ST-4703
Rear shifter: Tiagra ST-4700
Front derailleur: Tiagra FD-4703
Rear derailleur: RD-4700 GS
The rear derailleur for the 2018 AWOL is a Tiagra rear derailleur, so you won't have to worry about any adapters.”.
Looks pretty close to what I’ve been looking for, but using the road components means I’d also need to change my cassette and chainrings as well as still deal with a bottom pull front mech....looks like I’ll be going with the Shiftmate 7 for my existing front derailleur just for ease of installation, oh well.
A:
According to answers to this question, Shimano road and MTB had the same cable pull ratios up to 9 speed, but MTB 10 speed cable pull ratios were changed, which means that Shimano 10 speed road and MTB shifter and derailleurs are not compatible. I think that means that the pull ratio was changed for both front and rear derailleurs.
As you suspected you will need to replace front and rear shifters and derailleurs. If you want to keep the triple ring cranks you need a groupset that works with the 48/36/26 triple chainring and the 11-34 cassette. After a bit of searching around I'm sorry to say I think that will not be possible without changing gear ratios.
The only 3x10 Shimano road groupset is the 3x10 Tiagra, but the rear derailleur will accommodate only 20 chainring tooth difference, you need 22; largest rear cassette sprocket size is 32, you need 34. Total capacity is 41, you need at least 45.
If you swapped the smallest chainring to a 30 tooth it might work. I have heard that Shimano derailleurs will work with a large cassette sprocket 2 teeth larger than the specified max. Swapping the cassette and rings to Tiagra native 11-32 50/39/30 will of course work just fine.
Answers to this question indicate that Sram uses the same 1:1 pull ratio for a range of road and MTB groupsets. This page lists the 1:1 pull groupsets and it seems that Apex shifters are compatible with GX, X9, X7 etc. derailleurs. The X9 and X7 groupsets have 3x10 options but unfortunately SRAM offers no 3x road shifter.
If you can replace the crank and chainrings to 2x then you will of course be able to combine Sram Apex shifters with GX or X9 2x10 derailleurs. You would probably want to replace the cassette with an 11-38 or lower to preserve the low gearing.
You are looking at replacing a significant chunk of the bike which you will have to figure out if you want to spend money on. Another possible cheaper option that occurs to me would be to go to a flat bar and fit Deore MTB shifters.
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EMBED >More News Videos The Harris County Sheriff's office says they've terminated a deputy who had a relationship with Deputy Darren Goforth's mistress.
EMBED >More News Videos Neighbors are shocked that Deputy Marc DeLeon was fired for his relationship with the mistress of slain Deputy Darren Goforth.
HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A third law enforcement official is now under investigation for allegedly having a relationship with the mistress of Deputy Darren Goforth, the officer who was fatally shot at a gas station in northwest Harris County last year. The news comes on the same day the Harris County Sheriff's Office announced the termination of the second deputy who had a relationship with the same woman.The newest development also could affect the ongoing capital murder case against Shannon Miles, the man accused of gunning down Goforth on August 28.Harris County Sheriff Ron Hickman says the third officer is still on the job as the latest internal affairs investigation continues, but he anticipates some kind of disciplinary action will be taken against that employee, too."This seems to be a never-ending cycle of conduct that's embarrassing to every professional peace officer," Hickman said. "We'll continue doing what we're doing: to make sure that we point out and respond to allegations of improper conduct, that we respond correctly and proportionately and that we do what we can to make sure that our agency has the public's trust that those issues will be rooted out and handled."Earlier Wednesday, HCSO announced the termination of Deputy Marc DeLeon for his relationship with the same mistress. Officials say DeLeon wasn't fired because of the relationship, but for trying to withhold that information from others."This particular deputy knew the witness before the incident ever even occurred," Miles' defense attorney, Anthony Osso, said.Sources say Deputy DeLeon responded to the Goforth murder scene that night. The Harris County Sheriff's Office is looking into what role he played in the murder investigation.DeLeon isn't the sheriff's office employee terminated for his relationship with Goforth's mistress. In October, Sgt. Craig Clopton was fired after he admitted to engaging in consensual sexual conduct with the same woman."Any law enforcement leader would say that we are disappointed in an event that colors our reputation in the community poorly," Hickman said following DeLeon's termination.The HCSO says it is in the early stages of the investigation against DeLeon. The deputy can appeal the decision, which his attorney indicated he might do in a statement issued Wednesday afternoon:"Mr. De Leon has no comment as to the facts surrounding his separation of employment from the Harris County Sheriff's Office, at this time, as he will avail himself of the appeal process under Harris County Civil Service Rules."DeLeon's neighbors are shocked."I'm really surprised and kind of saddened by this because I know Marc. He's a really nice guy, he's really helpful. My son looks up to him. So, I feel really bad about the whole situation," one neighbor told Eyewitness News. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Tetrahydrouridine, cytidine analogues, and hemoglobin F.
5-Azacytidine (azaC) has previously been shown to raise Hb F levels in the repeatedly phlebotomized baboon (PCV: around 20%). The administration of tetrahydrouridine (THU), an inhibitor of the enzymatic conversion of azaC to 5-azauridine, made it possible to reduce the amount of azaC and also of 2-deoxy-5-azacytidine (d-azaC) by more than 90% and still achieve maximal Hb F elevations. However, the granulocytopenia, usually occurring after 5-azaC, was not altered by the lowering of the dosages in the presence of THU. Thus, the granulocytopenia is not due to 5-azauridine or other catabolic products resulting from deamination. It is also unlikely that it is caused by a direct influence of azaC on RNA since d-azaC also causes granulocytopenia. The persistence of reticulocytosis throughout the treatment with azaC or d-azaC makes it appear likely that the observed increase in Hb F levels to more than 60% of total hemoglobin is not due to a cytotoxic effect on erythropoiesis resulting in a shift of cell populations toward greater immaturity, but to a direct influence of the drug on the regulation of gamma globin chain production. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Pages
Friday, 9 December 2016
HMS Pulteney and the Spanish Xebecs 1743
There have been many blogs on this site dealing with actions
in the Age of Fighting Sail that involved only a few vessels, in many cases two
only. In most cases, skilful manoeuvring and sail management, taking full
advantage of wind and sea conditions, were key factors in positioning vessels
to deliver their broadsides from the most advantageous position. There can only
have been few cases in which the action took place in a calm and the movements
of sailing warships were determined by the ability of their crews to propel them
by sweeps or oars. Sweeps were long oars which could be extended out through gun
ports and their use seems to have fallen away in the course of the 18th
Century. In Britain’s National Maritime Museum in Greenwich there is only one
model of a vessel with sweeps deployed, as shown in the photograph below
It was during the War of Austrian Succession in January 1743
that HMS Pulteney fought a battle in the
Straits of Gibraltar in which her sweeps, and her enemies’, were to determine the
course of action. The Pulteney, “a large
brigantine” carrying 16 carriage guns (I can find no further detail) and commanded
by a Captain James Purcell, had been cruising in the Straits to deter Spanish
naval movements (as was the case in most in 18th Century wars, Spain
was allied with France against Britain). She now however found herself becalmed
off the British fortifications at Gibraltar and under observation from Spanish
forces at Algeciras, directly across the bay from them.
Two Spanish xebecs now left Algeciras to intercept Pulteney. Xebecs were a type of craft
common in the Mediterranean and were employed by the Spanish and French navies
as well as by North African corsairs. Light and highly manoeuvrable, many were
essentially galleys, with provisions as a matter of course for oar propulsion
as well as by large lanteen sails. (Sentencing to galley service was a dreaded punishment
for criminals). This contrasted with the use of sweeps, which were usually
employed as a last resort, and operated by members of the crew. The two xebecs
that came out to confront Purcell and the Pulteney
were each crewed by 120 men and each carried 12 guns, apparently 9-pounders.
Their rowers’ efforts were supplemented by the current through the Straits running
in their favour. The Pulteney by
contrast had only 42 men on board, three of whom had been wounded in an earlier
action.
A superb painting of Xebecs in action five years before the Pulteney's encounter
This file is licensed under the Creative Commons
Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license.
The xebecs opened fire with individual guns as they
approached but when within hailing distance called on Captain Purcell by name
to strike so as to avoid unnecessary slaughter. He and the Spanish captains appear
to have known each other – this being an era of gentlemanly warfare and
courteous respect for the enemy. Purcell, as was probably expected, refused to
yield and the engagement commenced, the Pulteney
being at a disadvantage to her more manoeuvrable foes. Gunfire was exchanged
for an hour and three quarters and the Spanish xebecs made three separate
attempts to board. Given how small Purcell’s crew was it is improbable that all
16 of Pulteney’s guns could have been manned but they at last inflicted sufficient
damage to the xebecs that they broke off the action to head for home. Even now,
Pulteney attempted to chase them, with the Pulteney
now propelled by her sweeps since there was still no wind. The lighter xebecs managed however to make their
escape.
The Pulteney had suffered seriously, her
sails and rigging completely destroyed and her hull and masts damaged. The action
had occurred in full view of the Gibraltar garrison and boats went out to tow her
back to safety. Her crew had suffered
one dead and five seriously wounded but it was reported afterwards that the
clothes of every man on board had been rent by shot or fragments. A
subscription was raised by Gibraltar’s governor, officers and merchants to
present Purcell with a piece of plate while money was distributed to the crew. Purcell’s
and Pulteney’s heroic stand was the
type of incident that was to inspire so much naval fiction in later years.
Download a free copy of Britannia’s
Eventide by clicking the cover image below
To thank subscribers to the Dawlish Chronicles mailing list,
a free, downloadable, copy of a new short story, Britannia's Eventide has been sent to them as an e-mail attachment.
Britannia's Eventide is a snapshot of a critical
moment in the later years of Admiral Sir Nicholas Dawlish and his wife, Lady
Florence, whom you will have met earlier in their lives in the five books of
the series so far. It is not available elsewhere at this time. It is a
companion piece to the short-story Britannia's Eye, which is a
bonus-addition to the novel Britannia's Amazon, and which gives a
glimpse of Nicholas Dawlish's childhood.
I hope that you will enjoy the story, no less than the
novels in the series. I always value feedback, so don't hesitate to get back to
me. I'd especially like to know what you think of the idea of free
short-stories that fill in gaps in Dawlish's career that may not justify full
books.
They most likely have copies of the Capitains log at the main British Empire library, or at least a later written account by a member of the Admiralty who knew the details of the battle. If not there, try the British Library at Gibraltar, which is still under British control. As with computers, the digitised Library databases today- it's all about 'How' u word ur search. You might also try Project Guttenberg. They have thousands of journals given them by present day relatives whom later immigrated to the U.S.It's a puzzle- keep looking- my motto is: NEVER SAY DIE, TRY AGAIN ANOTHER DAY.
You make an interesting point, Stephen. It is at times very hard to visualise exactly what happened from minute to minute during these actions. This is even more the case when there were actions lasting hours in which ships remained locked together.
About Me
My "Dawlish Chronicles" are set in the late 19th Century and reflect my deep interest in the politics, attitudes and technology of the period. The fifth novel in the series, “Britannia’s Amazon” is now available in both paperback and Kindle formats. It follows the four earlier Dawlish Chronicles, "Britannia's Wolf", "Britannia's Reach”, "Britannia's Shark" and "Britannia's Spartan". Click on the book covers below to learn more or to purchase.
I’ve had an adventurous career in the international energy industry and am proud of having worked in every continent except Antarctica. History is a driving passion in my life and I have travelled widely to visit sites of historical significance, many insights gained in this way being reflected in my writing. I welcome contact on Facebook and via this Blog. My website is www.dawlishchronicles.com and its “Conflict” section has a large number of articles on topics from the mid-18th Century to the early 20th Century. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
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Tag Archives: Matisse
‘What does believing in God have to do with cowboys?’ asked a visitor to her friend as I pored over the pages of Matisse’s book Jazz at the Tate Modern Cut-outs show in London this summer (catch it now, Stateside – Cowboy included – at MoMA). What indeed?
The Cowboy shows two bulbous, anthropomorphic black shapes, one wielding a lasso or whip, the other caught off balance by the lashing cord. In Jazz, it’s placed immediately opposite a passage of text entitled Si je crois en Dieu? (‘Do I believe in God?’), on pp. 98-102:
Do I believe in God ? Yes, when I’m working. When I am downtrodden and humbled, I experience such a feeling of being helped by someone who makes me do things that are beyond me. And yet I feel no gratitude towards him because it’s as if I find myself in the presence of a conjuror whose tricks I cannot understand. And so I feel frustrated by the benefit of the experience which ought to be the reward for my efforts. I am thankless without guilt.
The passage is inserted between the Cowboy and another picture evoking a circus double-act – the Knife Thrower. A tall, pale blue silhouette of a woman (like an amphora at the bottom of a lagoon) raises her arms while a vivid magenta form seems to leap and dance on the spot, directing a sharp, pointed blade at a cut-away black frond covering her heart: a second image of one passive figure confronted by the mysterious skill and showmanship of another.
And so, perhaps, a connection between these two images and the text they frame begins to emerge. Remember, too, that the passage of text immediately before the Cowboy (see Reading Matisse’s ‘Jazz’: 1) describes the humility of the act of taking Communion, and that the picture before that is the Sword Swallower, his head thrown back in the gesture of a communicant at the altar rail, gulping down a throatful of jagged knives. There is progress of a kind from the utterly subject, choking sword swallower, to the cowboy’s adversary, not quite bound by the lasso, and finally the tall, pale figure of the knife thrower’s target, quietly self-sufficient, poised, untouched, even victorious, at the end of the sequence. Progress, too, from the sword swallower’s invisible but infinitely more powerful tormenter, to the lasso-wielding cowboy, depicted on more or less equal visual terms with his counterpart, and the knife-thrower, who might almost be dancing in impotent frustration. Matisse has cogitated his relationship with his foes (God, his critics, his innermost demons?) and having written and pictured it, moves on.
The next passage is a glorious hymn to the power of love and happiness. ‘Love wants to rise above, unrestrained by anything here below’ – a phrase surely anticipated in the image of the woman seemingly unperturbed by the knife-thrower. God is no longer a frustrating conjuror, but a sublimated presence ‘above all living things’ (p.118). Not an invisible tormentor, but the fount of all love. The artist must keep travelling and never arrive, says Matisse, because
‘arrival = Prison and the artist must never be a prisoner. A prisoner? An artist must never be: a prisoner of his own self, prisoner of a style, prisoner of a reputation, his success etc… Didn’t the Goncourt brothers write that Japanese artists of the golden age changed their name several times over the course of their lives. I like that: they wanted to vouchsafe their freedom.’
Matisse is preparing the way for a change of artistic identity, a change of medium, and a new sense of personal and artistic freedom. From here, Jazz dives delightedly into the Lagoons that are the book’s clearest pointer to the joyous forms and colours of the later, post-war cut-outs. The artist’s spiritual journey – his personal progress from the lassos and knives hurled by his critics (and darker, more nameless forces), from war, from his own past – is plain to see and read, inexpressible in words or pictures alone, but communicated here by the interaction of both.
The great American art historian Alfred Barr took Matisse at his word (in the opening and closing lines of Jazz), seeing no connection between the book’s text and images, except (most obviously) in the Lagoons towards the end. Like many others, Barr accepted the scrolling text pages as visual ‘background noise’ allowing the eye to rest between the vivid, dancing colours of the plates. But Matisse’s disavowal is disingenuous indeed, as I hope these articles make clear.
Translation is part of the problem. The visitor quoted at the beginning of this piece had the advantage of understanding French (the Tate Modern provided no translation), but she had not engaged in the close reading of the composite visual and literary text that the book requires. For readers with no French, the task is still more difficult. Jazz has been translated several times, but always with the English text as a separate appendix and never ‘in facsimile’, with the English written out in the same, scrolling script, interleaved with the pictures in their original sequence. This is a tall order, of course, but one that might help us to better understand Matisse’s path to the glorious, inspirational cut-outs of his final years.
Icarus, interleaved between text pages 54 and 57, is probably the best-known image in Matisse’s book Jazz (still on show at Tate Modern, though time is running short).
Similarly, the passage known as ‘The aeroplane’ (pp. 40 to 54 in Jazz) is one of the best-known and most quoted texts in the book:
A simple journey by plane from Paris to London offers us a revelation of the world that our imagination could not foresee. And while we are delighted by the feelings inspired by our new situation, they trouble us, too, when we remember the cares and difficulties we have allowed to vex us on the earth below, visible through holes in the plain of clouds beneath us, when our present, enchanting surroundings existed all the while. Should not all young people be made to take a long plane flight once they have finished their studies?
But what hardly any commentators (since Matisse’s friend and chronicler Louis Aragon) seem to notice is that the two are placed together: first the text, then the picture. Aragon describes the black silhouette falling to earth amid ‘exploding shells’ – a clear reference to the realities of World War II, when Matisse worked on the pictures for Jazz (from 1943 to 1946) – but its impact is all the greater if we come upon it immediately after reading Matisse’s suggestion that all young people should take an extended plane journey at the end of their studies. The account of a plane ride from Paris to London (written in 1946, according to Matisse’s assistant Lydia Delektorskaya) describes something unthinkable just a couple of years before. The experience of rising to a place of eternal sunshine, far above our worldly woes, crystallises the heady relief of peacetime and the (wilfully distanced) memory of war. In this context, Icarus functions as a startling, intrusive flashback: a horrific image of an ambitious, courageous, skilled young person tumbling to earth, struck down, like so many young fighter pilots over the Channel, just when they hoped their wildest dreams might be realised. Text and picture together enact something akin to the symptoms of post-traumatic stress.
This extraordinary juxtaposition occurs at the heart of an extended sequence in Jazz, opening with the first lines of ‘The aeroplane’ alongside Matisse’s famous Wolf, an image often associated with the Gestapo. The ferocious profile is a savage intrusion into an otherwise delightful sheet of vivid blue and pink space, bordered by sea-green and sunny orange, and dotted with curly fronds.
Immediately after the picture, Matisse continues:
And while we are delighted by the feelings inspired by our new situation, they trouble us, too, when we remember the cares and difficulties we have allowed to vex us on the earth below.
The image of the Wolf – jagged, threatening, red-eyed and sharp-fanged – in the sea of deep azure blue and magenta, dotted with free-floating leafy forms, embodies the twin sensations described in Matisse’s text. He continues:
And when we have returned to our modest, pedestrian condition, we no longer feel the weight of the grey sky pressing down upon us, because we remember that behind that wall, so easily crossed, there is the splendour of the sun, and the perception of limitless space in which we felt, for a moment, so free.
These lines appear either side of a page completely filled with a sheet of pale French grey punctuated by two large holes, one showing a rectangle of grassy green overlaid with black, the other a black field overlaid with pink and white, framing a vivid red heart. The holes in the grey wall of cloud, perhaps? A suggestion of fields glimpsed from the plane? And that memory of the splendour of the sun, warming our hearts as we go about our pedestrian daily lives back on earth?
The suggestion of plane flights for young graduates, and the picture of Icarus, come next. Icarus’s own heart is a round bullet-hole of precisely the same red as the motif in the preceding picture. His face is an empty silhouette. The following piece of text reads:
The character of a drawn face does not depend on its various proportions, but on the spiritual light it reflects. To the extent that two drawings of the same face may represent the same character, while the facial proportions of the two drawings may be different.
Icarus’s face is not a drawing, but a subtracted void: a featureless, characterless black hole reflecting no spiritual light whatsoever…
We celebrate, reproduce and translate, even frame and sell passages of text and individual pictures from Jazz, but we should never overlook the astonishing, sometimes appalling impact of the sequence as a whole.
At long last, I’ve been to see the Matisse cut-outs at Tate Modern. After two hours, I was still in room 1, where the pages of Matisse’s book Jazz are displayed, frieze-like in glass-topped cases around all four walls, with the artist’s original cut-paper collages mounted above. A rare opportunity (unless you own one of the original editions, or a recent facsimile) to enjoy the text pages and pictures in sequence, as Matisse intended.
Two hours of reading and looking prove what I’ve long suspected – that Matisse’s refutal of any connection between the dazzling cut-outs and his scrolling lines of script is utterly disingenuous. Twice in the text, up front and again at the end, he insists that the flowing calligraphy serves as neutral wallpaper: resting the eye between the vivid colours of the pictures. Move along, he insists, nothing to see (or read) here… But there is, and how.
Yet many (even most) art historians overlook the close interaction of Jazz’s words and imagery. Writing just a few years after the book’s publication, the great American museum director (and Matisse’s personal friend) Alfred H. Barr is categorical:
‘Though five or six pages of text come before every stencil there is little obvious relation between them. They were intended more as a kind of interstitial padding to rest the eye between bouts with the dazzling plates. Matisse explains [this] in a preface to the text […]. Besides the first and last paragraphs […] there is only one line referring to the specific subject matter of the prints, and that concerns lagoons.’ [1]
This may go some way to explaining why (frustratingly for many visitors I overheard) the Tate has not included small translated text panels, enabling non-French speakers to experience the words and pictures together. We are perhaps too eager to take Matisse at his word and overlook his text: afraid to by-pass the master’s opening pronouncement. But Matisse’s book offers rich rewards for anyone prepared to ignore him and read on. And with supreme, classical apophasis, it seems to me that’s precisely what he is inviting us to do – provided we can read French, of course. For while the text of Jazz has often been translated, the resulting English versions have never been published ’in situ’, interleaved with the pictures in the original order, so that the precise interaction between the two may be fully appreciated by art lovers with no command of the book’s original language.
Alastair Sooke’s excellent, short study of the cut-outs, Henri Matisse, A Second Life (piled high in the Tate bookshop and well worth a read) quotes American art critic Jack Flam: [‘Jazz’ is] the closest thing to an autobiography Matisse has left us.’ Jazz is indeed an intimate, autobiographical narrative, charting the progress of Matisse’s art and soul, from horror at the slingshots and arrows of criticism levelled at him from time to time (and especially just before and during the Second World War) to the joy and serenity of his final years, so vividly expressed in the later cut-outs. Alastair Sooke gets to the heart of the pain, violence and catharsis that are the essence of Jazz: ‘For me,’ he says ’the juxtaposition of the overt brightness of the illustrations and the darkness of some aspects of their subject matter is what makes Jazz such a powerful and moving work of art.’ Sooke also acknowledges some connection between the words and pictures: ‘This undertow of violence and melancholy is reinforced by the text, which refers to the “violence” of the colour plates and begins with an image of bodily mutilation: “He who wants to devote himself to painting must begin by cutting out his tongue.”’ But Sooke gives little evidence of the detailed interaction between words and pictures throughout Jazz. I would take his statement a step further. For me, the precise interweaving of Matisse’s remarkable, often underestimated text with the in-your-face brightness and inherent, dark pain of the pictures, is what makes Jazz such a powerful and moving work of art.
Take the opening reference to the artist cutting out his tongue: Matisse is quoting one of his own, earlier statements on art, before pondering why he has now chosen to express himself with ‘means other than those which are inherently [the artist’s]’ – namely words, rather than colour and form. The big, scrolling words in Jazz are ‘PURELY VISUAL’ he says (spectaculaire in French, meaning ‘there to be looked at rather than read’). The script is interrupted here with block capitals for the only time in the book: Matisse is protesting too much, bien sûr. He goes on to state his intention to do just what we might expect: since the neutral, black-and-white script is a visual necessity, breaking up the vivid colour, he will use the text pages to ‘set down some remarks and notes taken over the course of my existence as a painter’, and begs ‘the indulgence generally accorded to the writings of painters.’ We have permission to read his words after all, but must accept them as random jottings of no special merit. I beg to differ. Matisse knows full well what he is about – remember, he has just emerged from the agony of war and life in a society split asunder by occupation and rival loyalties. A place where everyone, collaborators and resistants alike, learned to dissemble and communicate under cover.
Some commentators have linked the opening reference to the severed tongue with the picture interleaved with pages 93 and 94 of Jazz – the Sword Swallower.
A white-faced, bald head is shown in profile, flung uncomfortably far back, the throat swelling and the jaws forced painfully wide to receive three elongated rectangles containing pointed, undulating black blades. A small, three-petalled, floral cut-out stands for the eye. Certainly, this image of oral pain has some connection to the cutting out of tongues. But there’s more. The text immediately preceding the picture (on p. 93) reads:
A new picture should be something unique, a birth bringing a new figure into the corpus of the representation of the world through the mind of man. The artist must bring all his energy, his sincerity, and the greatest modesty to bear as he works, discarding the old clichés which come so readily to hand and may choke the little flower which, for its part, never comes as we expect.
Here, then, is the artist choked by visual cliché, struggling to nurture ‘the little flower’ of fresh creativity: a clear link to the Sword Swallower’s pose, and the sprouting form of the small black cut-out in the middle of the white globe of his head – the artist’s eye and/or a budding type for the ‘new figure’ which Matisse’s cut-outs engender in the corpus of representational art.
The text immediately following the Sword Swallower reads:
A musician said: In art, truth and reality begin when the artist no longer has any understanding of what he does, or what he knows, and there remains an energy that is all the more forceful for being thwarted, compressed, constricted. And so we must present ourselves with the greatest humility, all white, all pure, with complete candour, the brain seemingly empty, in a state of mind analogous to that of the communicant approaching the Holy Table…’
This after an image of a pure white, blank, profile head, thrown back in the manner of a communicant ready to the receive the Host, but receiving instead a trinity of swords thrust painfully down the throat. Without the text, our understanding of the picture may be quite different. ‘See the man singing?’ said a woman to her small son as I moved slowly around the room at Tate Modern. ‘See all the singing coming out of his mouth?’ Perhaps the Sword Swallower is the embodiment of the often painful process of artistic inspiration (in every sense of the term), and the agony and ecstasy of the creative outpouring that results?
Clearly, these are not merely (as Matisse states on p.141 at the end of his text) ‘crystallisations of memories of the circus, popular fairy tales or travels’ interspersed with pages of a painter’s musings and jottings. There is more afoot: the words and pictures in Jazz are working together in detail, page by page, to generate much deeper, subliminal meanings, inexpressible by either medium in isolation. Matisse is wrestling with the intimate matter of his ‘artist’s existence’ and more besides, expressing himself not merely through ‘those means which are inherently his’, but through words and pictures combined.
Today is the 200th anniversary of the publication of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. I’ve been celebrating vicariously with BBC Radio 4, including a delightful report from the Austen house this morning, delivered from the very spot on which Jane received her first copy from the publisher. She read it aloud to a lucky listener that same day, making no mention of herself as the author. I haven’t re-read the novel itself for at least two decades, but know I would find a great deal more in it now than I did back then. As when looking afresh at any work of art one hasn’t experienced for years…
The 2002 Matisse/Picasso exhibition at the Galeries du Grand Palais in Paris opened with the two painters’ self-portraits hung side-by-side, both of which I had last seen (in print only) almost two decades earlier, as a history of art student. Faces I had registered then simply as ‘two famous men’ sprang to life now. Picasso (or I ) had effected a kind of reverse Dorian Gray shift: he was younger than me this time around, forceful, sensual, stocky, muscular, determined, burning with inspiration. Matisse was no longer just a well-known artist painting a famous picture of himself with green flesh tones instead of pink: he looked cautious, wary, reserved, questioning the choices he was making on the canvas. On the brink of middle age, he was still a far cry from the twinkly, iconic persona of his last years. The paintings hadn’t changed but I had, and there was so much more to see in them now.
Reading Pride and Prejudice for the first time, in my teens, I loved the superficial fun of Lizzie and her father’s ongoing private joke, their arch derision of the lesser-brained members of the Bennet family. I felt the Bennet girls’ acute pain in love and loss, too, of course. But the subtlety and depth of the book’s characters were mostly lost. The same fictional folk are revisited in the Guardian this weekend (‘Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice at 200 : looking afresh at a classic’). Messrs Bennet and Darcy undergo perceptive analysis and character assassination courtesy of John Mullan and Sebastian Faulks, Mrs Bennet gets a more understanding hearing from Bharat Tandon, and Lydia enjoys a dazzling rehabilitation thanks to Paula Byrne. I look forward to reading it all again, with what the French so charmingly call l’avantage de l’âge…
Another Austen bicentennial piece on Radio 4 – coupled with the reference to newly-published books arriving in the post – put me in mind of a couple of my recent translations. Bear with…
Sue Limb’s delightful audio letter from Mr Bennet imagined the ever-jaded Mr B. writing to Lizzie from Bath, where he and his dear lady wife are celebrating their wedding anniversary. Mrs B’s excited squeals announce her return from a shopping trip, on which she has bought ‘a Jane Austen fridge magnet, a Jane Austen T-shirt, a Jane Austen Thermos mug, a Jane Austen enamelled keyring, and a Jane Austen zipped hoodie…’.
This was bound to strike a chord with someone who spent most of last summer and autumn translating two big books on Monet’s garden in Giverny (an exhibition catalogue for the Musée Marmottan Monet, Paris and the Sakip Sabanci Museum, Istanbul), and Marie-Antoinette’s garden at the Trianon (Flammarion, 2013).
Who among us has not bought or at least seen a Monet waterlilies teatowel, mouse-mat, mug or croaking frog garden alarm in a museum gift shop at some point in the last decade or so? Not to mention a Marie-Antoinette guest soap assortment, teacup-and-saucer, or kitten-heeled satin slipper Christmas tree decoration? Revisiting these two icons, and their equally iconic gardens – rescuing them from the gift shop and chocolate box lid, helping us to see them afresh – is what both books and their English translations are all about.
Giverny is perhaps easier for us to reinstate as a bold, avant-garde Gesamtwerk, than Marie-Antoinette’s Trianon playground. But Elisabeth Feydeau’s book (devised with Versailles head gardener and consultant editor Alain Baraton) succeeds in the undertaking, I think. Marie-Antoinette was, like Mrs Bennet, trying to do her best with the means at her disposal. In the context of Versailles, the Trianon was a genuine attempt at unaffected naturalism, an immersive environment that drew on painting, architecture, garden design, colour, fragrance and movement, counterbalancing the infinite tedium and massive scale of the static allées next door. Visitors to the Trianon could climb hills, float in boats, enjoy trysts in shady grottos, escape unseen down hidden flights of steps. The Temple of Love, on an artificial hillock overlooking a lake, was planted all around, we are told, with fragrant, white-blossoming shrubs whose petals and scent swirled and filled the air, like a snowstorm in a glass globe. White was Marie-Antoinette’s favourite colour, and she may even have understood (subconsciously or otherwise?) how white can function in bright sunlight against a vivid green background to generate retinal suggestions of contrasting colour, at the corners of our vision – provided we are prepared to look beyond the evidence of our eyes and experience colour and form as direct, abstract sensations, rather than the constituent parts of familiar motifs.
Marie-Antoinette’s social conscience was expressed at the Trianon too. Her hamlet with its kitchen gardens seems to have been intended, in part, to encourage the French poor to grow their own food in the face of famine – especially potatoes, which she saw as a solution to the acute problem. Which is why the Queen donned a potato-flower coiffure when the botanist and potato advocate Parmentier was received at Versailles. ‘Let them eat potatoes’ has a more practical ring, n’est-ce pas?
We have a duty, then, to keep working hard to rescue classic texts, classic paintings, iconic gardens, any and every aspect of The Culture, from the relentless petrification and superficialisation that come with great familiarity and huge popularity.
In that ongoing effort, translation has its role to play.
Did I see a Sid Vicious Union Jack tea-cosy on sale in London in the hazy, crazy summer of 2012? I think perhaps I did… | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Reversible on/off conductance switching of single diarylethene immobilized on a silicon surface.
The chemical functionalization of hydrogen-terminated silicon(111) surfaces with photochromic diarylethene using an ethylene anchoring group was achieved. Conductive atomic force microscopy measurements showed the current changes on modified silicon electrodes caused by light-induced isomerization of the diarylethene between an open form and a closed form. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Tremain Paul
Tremain Shayn Paul (born 12 August 1991) is a Saint Lucian international footballer who plays as a midfielder for Williams Connection.
Career
He made his international debut for Saint Lucia in 2011, and has appeared in FIFA World Cup qualifying matches.
International Goals
Scores and results list Saint Lucia's goal tally first.
References
Category:1991 births
Category:Living people
Category:Saint Lucian footballers
Category:Saint Lucia international footballers
Category:People from Micoud Quarter
Category:Expatriate footballers in Trinidad and Tobago
Category:TT Pro League players
Category:W Connection F.C. players
Category:Association football midfielders | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Step 1
Step 1: Assemble the drone kit
Required time: 30 minutes
Once you get all the components start by assembling your drone:
Get the black frame together and place the motors on top.
Fix the ESC (Electronic Speed Controllers) to the frame using some tape and connect them to the motors.
Put together the power ( red ) and ground ( black ) ends of the ESCs into the individualcable (to be connected later to the battery) and fix everything underneath the frame.
) and ground ( ) ends of the ESCs into the individualcable (to be connected later to the battery) and fix everything underneath the frame. Adjust the power module connectors to the battery ones. There several ways to do this but here's a quick one: a) cut the connectors and solder battery and power module together (do it one at a time, careful with short circuits!). b) cut the other end of the power module and resolder the battery connector (previously cut) there. c) Done!, this will allow us to easily connect and disconnect the "battery+power module" to the drone.
Place the "battery+power module" pack underneath, use the velcro included in the package to do so.
Step 2: Get the autopilot ready
Required time: 30 minutes
Connect the PXFmini shield on top of the Raspberry Pi Zero as described in the following image:
The PXFmini (stands for PixHawk Fire Cape mini), a 69€ autopilot shield for the Raspberry Pi to build robots and drones.
You're almost done but you still need to get the right software on the Raspberry Pi Zero+PXFmini set. This should include the flight stack, an appropriate kernel, enabled daemons that auto-launch on boot, and additional goodies...
Fortunately, if you purchased the PXFmini from Erle Robotics you'll get access to their Debian images which include all this so just fetch a PXFmini compatible Debian image and flash it into a microSD card.
Step 3: Mount the autopilot
Required time: 5 minutes
PXFmini mounted on top of the Raspberry Pi Zero assembled in the drone
Mounting the autopilot (Raspberry Pi Zero + PXFmini) in the drone can be done using several methods. Pick yours and connect the JST GH cable from the power module to the PXFmini. This will to power the autopilot when the battery gets connected.
Next is mounting the PWM channels in the autopilot. Get your ESC cables and connect ESC 1 (corresponding with motor 1) to PWM channel 1, ESC 2 to PWM 2 and so on.
Step 4: Mount the propellers and get it flying!
Required time: 15 minutes
There's two kinds of propellers clockwise (marked with an "R") and counter-clockwise. Place the clockwise propellers in motor 3 and 4 and the counter-clockwise ones in motors 1 and 2.
Finally, you'll need a way to control your drone. I propose two methods: | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
1. Technical Field
The present invention relates to the manufacture of electronic circuit assemblies, and more particularly to the manufacture of circuit assemblies having electrical circuits disposed as a plurality of layers separated by dielectric material.
2. Background Art
High density circuit assemblies are typically formed as sequentially added layers of circuitry on printed circuit boards (PCBs), metal sheets, ceramic substrates and the like. Such assemblies are typically formed by full additive metalization, for example by electroless or electrolytic plating or vacuum deposition. Full metalization processes are time consuming and suffer yield problems due to the inherent thickness non-uniformity of the circuitry. Also, it is generally necessary to drill through holes and blind vias as separate intermediate operations during the manufacturing process, adding to the cost of manufacture.
One method for forming multi layer circuit boards is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,260,518 issued Nov. 9, 1993 to Tanaka et al. The manufacturing method disclosed by Tanaka et al requires that stepped holes, of increasing diameter from lower to upper conductive layers, be bored or drilled during the manufacture to provide for conductive interconnection between electrical circuits disposed on different layers of the assembly. The increasingly larger diameters of the holes are required to solve the problem of misregistration of the holes when the layers are laminated. This practice not only increases the cost and complexity of manufacturing, but because of the required larger holes, also limits the spacing, or density, of interconnection sites in the circuit assembly. Accordingly, the circuits have lower component density which requires larger board areas and increases the overall size of the circuit assembly.
Other methods of forming multiple layered electrical circuit assemblies require the use of adhesive materials to bond the electrically conductive circuit layers to dielectric separating material. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,420,364 issued Dec. 13, 1983 to Nukii et al describes the use of high-insulation adhesive sheets in the construction of multiple layer circuit assemblies. Likewise, U.S. Pat. No. 5,234,536 issued Aug. 10, 1993 to Parthasarathi et al requires the use of adhesive materials to bond a metal foil layer to a substrate. In both of these constructions, holes must be provided through the adhesive materials so that selected portions of spaced apart circuit layers can be interconnected. These holes must be sufficiently large so that adhesive reflow during lamination does not occlude the interconnection site. As noted above, when relatively large holes are required for circuit interconnection, the spacing and density of vias and other interconnection sites is adversely limited. Accordingly, circuit assemblies formed through the use of adhesive bonding materials generally require more space for positioning of components, resulting in relatively large board areas and increased size of electronic circuits formed thereon.
The present invention is directed to overcoming the problems set forth above. It is desirable to have a method for manufacturing multiple layered electronic circuit assemblies that does not require the drilling of stepped holes of increasing diameter to provide for conductive interconnection between electrical circuits. It is also desirable to have such a manufacturing method that does not require the use of adhesive bonding materials, so that via and interconnection holes through the insulative material can be relatively small, permitting the formation of high density circuitry on the circuit layers. It is also desirable to have a manufacturing system for the formation of multiple layered high density electronic circuit assemblies that is economical and easily automated so that previous problems with registration of respective circuits on spaced apart layers are reduced. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
IN THE COURT OF CRIMINAL APPEALS OF TENNESSEE
AT JACKSON
Assigned on Briefs January 6, 2009
STATE OF TENNESSEE v. JOSEPH MAY
Direct Appeal from the Criminal Court for Shelby County
No. 04-03616 Carolyn Wade Blackett, Judge
No. W2006-02479-CCA-R3-CD - Filed June 8, 2009
The defendant, Joseph May, was convicted by a Shelby County jury of first degree premeditated
murder for which he received a sentence of life imprisonment. On appeal, he contends that the
evidence was insufficient to prove he committed a premeditated and intentional murder. Upon
review of the record and the parties’ briefs, we affirm the judgment of the trial court.
Tenn. R. App. P. 3 Appeal as of Right; Judgment of the Criminal Court Affirmed
J.C. MC LIN , J., delivered the opinion of the court, in which ALAN E. GLENN and CAMILLE R.
MCMULLEN , JJ., joined.
Garland Ergüden (on appeal), and Amy Mayne and William Johnson (at trial) Assistant Public
Defenders, Memphis, Tennessee, for the appellant, Joseph May.
Robert E. Cooper, Jr., Attorney General and Reporter; Melissa Roberge, Assistant Attorney General;
William L. Gibbons, District Attorney General; and Paul Hagerman and Lara Fowler, Assistant
District Attorneys General, for the appellee State of Tennessee.
OPINION
FACTUAL BACKGROUND
The evidence presented at the trial established that the victim, Tonya Turnage, died after
having been hit over the head with a glass bottle and stabbed multiple times by the defendant. On
the morning of January 14, 2004, the victim’s body was discovered by Ursula Leflore. Ms. Leflore
testified that while she was delivering newspapers, she discovered a body, which was later identified
as the victim, lying face down in the street at the intersection of Dunn and Dearing. Ms. Leflore
immediately left the intersection and called the police to report the body. At the trial, Ms. Leflore
identified photographs of the victim’s body taken at the location where she was found.
Michael Rawlins with the Memphis Police Department testified that at approximately five
o’clock in the morning on January 14, 2004, he responded to “a man down call.” Upon arriving at
the intersection of Dunn and Dearing, he “observed a female body in the middle of the street . . . and
a lot of blood . . . around the body.” Officer Rawlins checked the body and found it was cold and
had no pulse. Photographs depicting the scene and the body surrounded by blood were identified
by Officer Rawlins and made exhibits at the trial.
David Galloway with the Memphis Police Department Crime Scene Unit stated that on
January 14, 2004, he responded to a crime scene call at the intersection of Dunn and Dearing in
Memphis, Shelby County. His duties as a crime scene officer were to capture the scene through
photographs and sketches and to collect evidence. He recalled that when he arrived at the scene, a
clothed body was lying in the street and “what appeared to be blood was coming from different parts
of her body.” Officer Galloway identified his sketch of the scene which was made an exhibit at the
trial. The body was found without shoes, a purse, or identification. Photographs depicting clothing
and jewelry worn by the victim and injuries to the victim’s arm, side, and hand were taken by Officer
Galloway and identified by him at the trial. On cross-examination, Officer Galloway described the
neighborhood where the body was found as residential with mostly single family houses.
Sergeant T.J. Helldorfer with the Homicide Bureau of the Memphis Police Department
testified that on January 18, 2004, he was assigned to advise Joseph May of his Miranda rights
before he gave a statement. Sergeant Helldorfer identified the defendant at trial as Joseph May and
also identified an advice of rights form signed by the defendant. Sergeant Helldorfer stated that the
form was executed during an interview of the defendant conducted by himself and Sergeant J.R.
Howell. After the defendant was advised of his rights, he signed consent forms for the searches of
1318 Briarwood, the defendant’s home, and a 1978 Chevy pickup truck, the defendant’s vehicle.
Sergeant Berryman then took a statement from the defendant while Sergeant Helldorfer interviewed
the defendant’s mother. Sergeant Helldorfer stated that the defendant and his mother came into the
homicide office of their own accord. He recalled that the defendant was calm and reserved.
Nathan Berryman with the Homicide Squad of the Memphis Police Department testified that
he assisted Sergeant Helldorfer with the investigation of the victim’s death. Lieutenant Berryman
stated that the defendant was brought to the homicide office by his stepfather and mother because
“he wanted to confess the killing of this victim.” After the defendant waived his rights, Lieutenant
Berryman spoke with the defendant. Lieutenant Berryman identified a four page written statement
signed by the defendant which was made an exhibit and read aloud to the jury. The statement reads
in pertinent part:
Sergeant Helldorfer: Do you wish to make a statement now?
The Defendant: Yes.
Sergeant Helldorfer: Are you aware that we are investigating the death of Tonya
Turnage?
The Defendant: Yes.
Sergeant Helldorfer: Joe, are you responsible for Tonya’s death?
-2-
The Defendant: Yes, sir.
Sergeant Helldorfer: Could you tell me in as much detail as possible what occurred
before, during and after, Tonya and it says Trudge’s – death.
Should that be Turnage?
The Defendant: Yes. That should be. Answer: I like to get high and pick up
women[,] on Tuesday night [] I went out. I picked up a
woman around the Barron and Semmes area.
....
I picked her up on the way back to the house and asked her if
she liked to get high? So we came to the conclusion that we
were going to smoke dope . . . and have sex. We get back to
the house. The first thing we do is get high together. Then
we have sex, . . . . After that, we continue to get high. About
an hour and a half later we got done smoking. She got upset
with me. She thought that . . . I [was] going to get her some
money for the sex we had. Once I told her that I didn’t have
any money, she threw a tantrum with me. At this time, we
were sitting on the couch in my living room, . . . . At this
time she told me that she want[ed] some f***ing money. At
this time I told her, I didn’t have any money to give her.
Now, she’s getting really hostile with me. She’s screaming
at me. I have a knife on my coffee table. She grabbed the
knife and begins to up the blade [ ]. And she is to the left of
me. I grabbed a bottle and hit her in the head with the bottle.
At this time, when I hit her in the head, she fell over. Then
she fell over on the knife. I think that she pulled the knife out
or it fell out. I’m not really for sure. Then she [got] up and
[is] coming at me. She lunges at me and I hit her two more
times with the bottle. The third time the bottle broke. Due to
us - - both of us being high, it’s [sic] nothing slowing her
down. She gets back up and [is] wrestling around, there was
another knife under the cushions of my couch. I believe at
this time I stabbed her in the throat with the knife. After that
time, I am scared. I try to put her in the truck. I pull the truck
in the garage. I brought her out through the window. I drove
around two miles down the street. I think it was Dunn Street.
I put her out on the street . . . [b]y the curb. I wipe down my
truck and put my clothes in the washing machine. I put a
drop cloth over the carpet. When I get back to the house, it is
about two a.m.
-3-
According to Lieutenant Berryman, the defendant reported that when he picked up the victim he had
“about six rocks” of crack cocaine. The defendant described the knife that the victim grabbed as “a
folding knife” and the knife that he pulled from under the couch as “[a] knife with a sheath.” The
defendant told Lieutenant Berryman that he was unsure how many times he stabbed the victim
because they “were scuffling.” When asked what he did with the wine bottle that he used to hit the
victim, the defendant said that he “threw it in the trash.” The defendant was photographed and asked
if he had injuries and he indicated that he did not. Lieutenant Berryman described the defendant’s
demeanor during his interview as calm. On cross-examination, Lieutenant Berryman agreed that if
the defendant had not turned himself in, the case would have been very difficult to solve.
Memphis Police Department Officers Merritt, Sousoulas, and Jacobs testified regarding the
search of the defendant’s residence and vehicle and the recording and custody of the evidence found.
Officer Merritt testified that after the defendant signed a consent form for the search of his residence,
he went to 1318 Briarwood to conduct the search. Upon entering the house, Officer Merritt noticed
that a paint drop cloth covered the entire floor of the living room. The living room furniture was
sitting on top of the drop cloth. A substance believed to be blood was found on the living room
carpet, items of clothing, shoes, boots, the arm of a love seat, and underneath the middle cushion of
the couch. Photographs of the living room included one of a knife in a sheath. Officer Merritt stated
that the photograph showed the knife exactly as it was found under the middle cushion of the couch.
Officer Merritt stated that samples were taken from the carpet, the couch, a comforter on the couch,
and a table. Items were collected from the house including the knife in the sheath and the
defendant’s shoes. Officer Merritt stated that the defendant’s vehicle was taken to a storage lot for
a later search. Police did not find the victim’s shoes, purse, or identification inside the house.
Officer Sousoulas identified the evidence taken from the house including a knife in a sheath,
which was made a trial exhibit. Officer Jacobs testified that he processed and photographed a truck
that had been towed from 1318 Briarwood. He stated that in the bed of the truck he found a hatchet
with a wooden handle and what appeared to be blood on the tailgate. The hatchet was tagged as
evidence and the tailgate was swabbed to be tested for the presence of the victim’s blood. On cross-
examination, Officer Jacobs stated that there was also a toolbox, assorted oil bottles, a glass bottle,
and a spare tire in the bed of the defendant’s truck which were not inventoried.
Doreen Shelton with the Memphis Police Department assigned to the Homicide Bureau
testified that she was present when a nurse obtained a blood sample from the defendant to compare
with the samples found at his residence. Lieutenant Shelton also received samples taken from the
victim at the Regional Medical Forensic Center. Blood samples from both the defendant and the
victim were identified by Lieutenant Shelton and admitted as trial exhibits. Ernestine Davison with
the Memphis Police Department testified that she delivered the blood samples from the victim and
the defendant along with other evidence to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation for analysis.
Sergeant J.M. Oliver with the Memphis Police Department testified that he retrieved a pocket
knife contained in a plastic bag from the residence of the defendant’s parents in Olive Branch,
Mississippi. According to Sergeant Oliver, the defendant’s parents told him that “they had handled
the knife.” The pocket knife was made an exhibit at the trial.
-4-
Donna Nelson, a forensic scientist with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, testified that
the defendant’s DNA was identified on rectal swabs taken from the victim. Tests further identified
the victim’s blood on three living room carpet samples, the fabric sample from the arm of the couch,
and a large knife. Tests revealed a partial verification of the victim’s blood on samples taken from
the defendant’s truck. Agent Nelson explained that the partial verification indicated the sample was
degraded. Tests failed to reveal the victim’s blood on the pocket knife or the hatchet.
Dr. O.C. Smith, Shelby County Medical Examiner, testified that in January of 2004 he
performed an autopsy on an individual identified as the victim, Tonya Turnage, a thirty-four year
old woman. The autopsy revealed that the victim sustained injuries including multiple stab wounds
and cutting wounds to the neck and torso, tears to the scalp, underlying fractures, and bleeding about
the brain. The cause of the victim’s death was officially listed as “multiple injuries.” Dr. Smith
stated that there were two tears on the victim’s scalp indicating blunt force injuries including a large
tear of three and three quarter inches above and behind her left ear, and smaller tears involving the
top of the ear. There was another tear on the back of the victim’s head caused by a blunt force. The
victim’s blood was tested for both cocaine and metabolite, a breakdown product of cocaine. Tests
revealed that the victim’s blood levels of both cocaine and its metabolite were in the upper range for
recreational use of cocaine. Dr. Smith testified that “[n]ormal recreational use would be .1,
sometimes .2 and [the victim’s level was] .255.”
According to Dr. Smith, there were scrapes and tears from the victim’s lip to her right check
and the bridge of her nose consistent with “road rash.” Dr. Smith explained that “road rash” was
most often seen when a body had suffered forced contact with pavement, gravel, or concrete. Sharp
force injuries of two types were present on the victim’s neck. The first type of wound was
superficial, going down only to the protective layer covering the neck muscles and was inflicted
using a slicing motion. The second type of sharp force injury was a stab wound caused by the
insertion of a sharp object “into the neck and in an upward direction . . . causing damage to the
carotid artery and the jugular vein, cutting across the windpipe.” Dr. Smith explained that this injury
would have “cause brisk bleeding” and would also have caused the victim “to breathe blood into her
lungs.” Dr. Smith estimated that there were two passes with a knife on the right side of the victim’s
neck and three passes with a knife on the left side of her neck. There was also a shallow stab wound
with skin scrapping and bruising found on the victim’s right forearm and two incised wounds on the
victim’s right middle finger. Dr. Smith stated that there were five stab wounds to the victim’s
abdomen and chest which resulted in damage to her lungs and liver.
Without knowing the exact sequence of events, it was difficult for Dr. Smith to determine
the order that the injuries were received. However, he stated, with the exception of some tears inside
the victim’s lip, all of the injuries appeared to have occurred while the victim was alive. Dr. Smith
specifically testified that the scraping injuries on the victim’s head and face occurred while the
victim was still alive. Dr. Smith agreed that the wounds on the victim’s arm and finger were
consistent with “defensive wounds.” However, he clarified that the term “defensive wound” evolved
as “a term of art in forensics” from seeing injuries that had occurred in an attempt to deflect a sharp
edge. Dr. Smith stated the term was not a diagnostic criterion. Photographs taken during the
autopsy of the victim were entered into evidence as trial exhibits.
-5-
On cross-examination, Dr. Smith stated that an examination of the victim indicated that there
was not any trauma or forced entry during sex. He stated that he believed that the wounds to the
torso were “more likely to have been inflicted by the smaller knife[.]” The area of the brain that
would have been affected by blunt trauma injuries to the victim’s head “were not those areas that
would require a person to either lose consciousness or lose control of their body.” Dr. Smith agreed
that the use of cocaine affected everyone differently “within certain guidelines.” He further agreed
that the use of cocaine could affect a person’s judgment, temperament and overall personality and
could cause agitation and create a drive to get more cocaine. On redirect examination, Dr. Smith
agreed that the wounds to the torso could not have been caused by the victim falling on a knife, nor
could the injuries to the neck have been caused by only one stabbing.
Carol Turnmire, the defendant’s mother, testified that she and her husband owned the house
on Briarwood and that the family had lived there until they moved to Mississippi. After she and her
husband moved, the defendant and Ms. Turnmire’s daughter continued to live in the house on
Briarwood. Ms. Turnmire recalled that in 1998, she discovered that the defendant was on crack and
“taking Oxycotin and several other things.” The defendant entered a drug rehabilitation center in
Mississippi. After the defendant left the rehabilitation center, he moved to New Albany with his
wife in an effort to reconcile their marriage. However, in 2000, the defendant and his wife separated
and he moved back into the Briarwood house with his girlfriend and lived there intermittently from
2000 to 2004. Ms. Turnmire stated that the last time that the defendant moved back into the house
on Briarwood, he had been living with his girlfriend who “kicked him out of the house because of
drug use.” Ms. Turnmire knew that the defendant was still having a drug problem and spent his
entire weekly paycheck of five to six hundred dollars on crack cocaine. She and her husband had
allowed the defendant to move back into the house on Briarwood and the defendant had agreed to
help get the house ready to sell.
Ms. Turnmire spoke with the defendant on the telephone on Monday night, January 12th or
13th, 2004. On the following Thursday, after Ms. Turmire had not been able to reach the defendant,
she drove by the house on Briarwood, but she did not see his truck. On Friday, Ms. Turmire and her
husband went to the house and knocked for a long time, and the defendant finally came to the door.
As Ms. Turmire stepped into the house, she saw a drop cloth on the living room floor and she
thought that the defendant had started doing work to sell the house. The defendant did not look well
and Ms. Turnmire told him she was taking him to her house in Mississippi. She and her husband
then picked up the defendant’s son, who lived around the corner, and they spent Saturday in
Mississippi. On Sunday, the defendant told Ms. Turnmire that “he killed the girl that they found on
Dearing.” The defendant told her that he “picked [the victim] up and I took her back to the house
and we were smoking crack and we got into a fight over the crack and it was crazy and things were
crazy and I stabbed her.” The defendant agreed to go to the police and Ms. Turnmire, her husband
and her daughter took him to the police station where he gave a statement. Ms. Turmire also gave
a statement and asked the police to put the defendant on suicide watch because he was so upset. On
cross-examination, Ms. Turnmire stated that she first became aware that the defendant kept a large
knife at the house about three years ago when someone tried to break into the house.
The defendant testified that he was twenty-nine years old, had two children, and had been
employed doing residential fire and water damage repair work. He first used crack cocaine when
-6-
he was eighteen years old, and by the end of 2002 to 2003, he “got really strung out on crack.” In
June of 2003, he spent “five days in detox” followed by “thirty days in rehab.” However, within four
or five months, he “was back on it again.” According to the defendant, he started picking up
prostitutes in 1998, and since then, he had been using prostitutes on a weekly basis. The defendant
moved back into the house on Briarwood on December 26, 2003, after a fight with his girlfriend.
At that time, he was using crack cocaine on a daily basis. The defendant bought the crack cocaine
from a “guy that [the defendant] had known, [and] had been dealing with since 2000.”
The defendant stated that on the night of his encounter with the victim, he was at his house
by himself, had some dope and was lonely. He went to an area where he knew there to be prostitutes
and “picked up one prostitute but . . . she didn’t want to go back to the house and smoke dope[.]”
The defendant then saw the victim. He claimed that the victim flagged him down and he
propositioned the victim and told her “there wasn’t no money involved.” According to the
defendant, “the stipulation was [they] would go back to the house, smoke the dope, and have a little
fun sex, and [he] would bring her back.” The defendant stated that the victim agreed and they went
to his house and “got a little high. And [they] had sex. Then [they] started getting high again[.]”
At about eleven thirty that evening, the victim became agitated when the defendant “ran out of
dope.” The defendant stated that “at that point, she had asked [him] for some money.” He told the
victim that he did not have any money, and “she reached down to the coffee table and grabbed the
pocket knife.” The defendant said that when “she went for that pocket knife . . . [he] struck her with
the bottle[,]” hitting her two or three times before the bottle broke. He recalled that the victim fell
to the floor and got up and they were “squalling” when he fell and she fell on top of him. The
defendant stated that he then “grabbed the knife from the cushion and [he] stabbed her with it.” The
defendant stated that the knife was from his knife collection, and that it had been under the cushion
since he moved back into the house. The defendant could not recall how long the fight lasted. His
testimony regarding what happened after stabbing the victim continued as follows:
Defendant: I didn’t have no phone in the house. I didn’t have no cell
phone. It wasn’t an option for me to pickup 9-1-1 and call
them. Really, I freaked out. . . . I’m seeing Tonya there.
She’s lifeless, I didn’t . . . check for a pulse. I didn’t check to
see if she was dead.
....
Counsel: Did she look dead to you . . . . [Y]ou didn’t check for a
pulse[?]
The Defendant: No, she was actually . . . turned away from me on the floor.
She wasn’t moving. . . . I suppose she was lifeless. I didn’t
check. I couldn’t tell you.
Counsel: Were you still high on crack cocaine at this point?
-7-
The Defendant: Yes, ma’am. I was still coming down off the aftermath[] of
crack.
Counsel: And what did you do next?
The Defendant: Like I said, I got scared. I didn’t know what to do. So I made
a decision, I mean it wasn’t a logical decision, I just made a
decision that I was going to place her in the truck and place
her somewhere where somebody could find her and that’s
what I did. I didn’t even drive that far from the house. It
wasn’t even – less than two miles from where I lived at and
I placed her there in the street. I mean, you know, that I
jumped out the truck and I ran and yanked her out and bawled
off, you know, I mean – I wasn’t trying to hide her. I didn’t
-- you know, I didn’t think about putting her in a dumpster.
It was a logical place for me to do it so somebody would find
her and maybe get medical attention if she was still alive or
what – you know, it was just - -
Counsel: Do you have any idea what time it was at this point?
The Defendant: I had no clock at the house. I got an alarm clock, but I believe
it wasn’t set right. I could tell you, it was probably, give or
take, one or two o’clock in the morning.
Counsel: And so the street lights were on in that area. Was it a well lit
area or dimly lit or do you recall?
The defendant: As I recall, it was a lighted area. You know, I have lived on
that street when I was a kid. I was familiar with the area and
there was a church right there. But the church is right here
across the street, and that’s the street there, and that’s where
she was found. I – you know, I believe it was a very lit area,
it wasn’t total darkness.
The defendant stated that he then went home and lay down on the couch. He recalled that
he was supposed to be at work and his team leader came by the house and knocked on his door. The
defendant did not let his team leader in the house because “of what was on the floor there, the
blood.” The defendant told the team leader he was not coming to work. After his team leader left,
the defendant put a tarp over the carpet and wiped off the knife. He stated that he “got some dope
that Thursday, and [he] got high,” and on Friday, he went “to work to get [his] paycheck because
[he] wanted to get high.” The defendant recalled that later on Friday, his parents came by the house
and told him they were going to get his son and take them to Mississippi. On Sunday morning while
he was in the car with his mother, he told her that he was “responsible for that woman they found
-8-
on Dearing and Dunn.” The defendant stated that although he was scared, he “came in voluntarily
and [he] told them what – what had happened.”
On cross-examination, the defendant agreed that in his statement to the police, he said
nothing about wanting the victim to have medical attention, but stated that he did not have an
attorney present and just gave the police a summary of what happened. The defendant stated that
he hit the victim on the side of the head with the bottle as she was coming toward him with a knife
and then hit her a second time on the back of the head as a reaction after the first swing. The
defendant agreed that he told the police that he did not have any injuries. The defendant further
agreed that he made the decision not to take the victim out the front door, but instead, took her out
the window into the garage to avoid being seen. He conceded that he put the victim in the truck and
left her body in the street. When asked if the victim was still alive when he left her body in the
street, the defendant stated he “had no idea that she was or was not,” but claimed it was his intention
that someone find her and get her medical attention. On redirect examination the defendant stated
that he turned himself in because he knew he was responsible for what happened to the victim and
for his decisions, and stated he “couldn’t live with [himself].”
The jury was instructed on first degree murder and lesser-included offenses and on self-
defense. After deliberation, the jury found the defendant guilty of first degree murder. Thereafter,
he was sentenced to life imprisonment.
ANALYSIS
On appeal, the defendant challenges the sufficiency of the convicting evidence. Specifically,
the defendant argues that the state did not “carry its burden of proving that he is guilty beyond a
reasonable doubt of premeditated and intentional murder.” The defendant submits that “the evidence
is insufficient to support a conviction greater than murder in the second degree.”
We begin our review by setting forth the well-established rule that once a jury finds a
defendant guilty, his or her presumption of innocence is removed and replaced with a presumption
of guilt. State v. Evans, 838 S.W.2d 185, 191 (Tenn. 1992). Therefore, on appeal, the convicted
defendant has the burden of demonstrating to this court why the evidence will not support the jury’s
verdict. State v. Carruthers, 35 S.W.3d 516, 557-58 (Tenn. 2000); State v. Tuggle, 639 S.W.2d 913,
914 (Tenn. 1982). To meet this burden, the defendant must establish that no “rational trier of fact”
could have found the essential elements of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Jackson v.
Virginia, 443 U.S. 307, 319 (1979); State v. Evans, 108 S.W.3d 231, 236 (Tenn. 2003); see also
Tenn. R. App. P. 13(e). In contrast, the jury’s verdict approved by the trial judge accredits the state’s
witnesses and resolves all conflicts in favor of the state. State v. Harris, 839 S.W.2d 54, 75 (Tenn.
1992). The state is entitled to the strongest legitimate view of the evidence and all reasonable
inferences which may be drawn from that evidence. Carruthers, 35 S.W.3d at 558. Questions
concerning the credibility of the witnesses, conflicts in trial testimony, the weight and value to be
given the evidence, and all factual issues raised by the evidence are resolved by the trier of fact and
not this court. State v. Bland, 958 S.W.2d 651, 659 (Tenn. 1997). We do not attempt to re-weigh
or re-evaluate the evidence. State v. Rice, 184 S.W.3d 646, 662 (Tenn. 2006). Likewise, we do not
replace the jury’s inferences drawn from the circumstantial evidence with our own inferences. State
-9-
v. Reid, 91 S.W.3d 247, 277 (Tenn. 2002). These rules are applicable to findings of guilt predicated
upon direct evidence, circumstantial evidence, or a combination of both direct and circumstantial
evidence. State v. Pendergrass, 13 S.W.3d 389, 392-93 (Tenn. Crim. App. 1999).
First degree murder is defined as the “premeditated and intentional killing of another.” Tenn.
Code Ann. § 39-13-202(a)(1). A premeditated killing is one “done after the exercise of reflection
and judgment.” Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-13-202(d). Premeditation is explained as follows:
“Premeditation” means that the intent to kill must have been formed prior to the act
itself. It is not necessary that the purpose to kill pre-exist in the mind of the accused
for any definite period of time. The mental state of the accused at the time the
accused allegedly decided to kill must be carefully considered in order to determine
whether the accused was sufficiently free from excitement and passion as to be
capable of premeditation.
Id. An intentional act requires that the person have the desire to engage in the conduct or cause the
result. Id. § 39-11-106(a)(18). Whether premeditation is present is a question of fact for the jury,
and it may be determined from the circumstances surrounding the killing. Bland, 958 S.W.2d at 660;
State v. Anderson, 835 S.W.2d 600, 605 (Tenn. Crim. App. 1992). Circumstances that may be
indicative of premeditation include declarations of the intent to kill, procurement of a weapon, the
use of a deadly weapon upon an unarmed victim, the fact that the killing was particularly cruel,
infliction of multiple wounds, the making of preparations before the killing for the purpose of
concealing the crime, destruction or secretion of evidence, and calmness immediately after the
killing. State v. Jackson, 173 S.W.3d 401, 409 (Tenn. 2005); State v. Nichols, 24 S.W.3d 297, 302
(Tenn. 2000). A defendant’s failure to render aid to a victim can also indicate the existence of
premeditation. State v. Lewis, 36 S.W.3d 88, 96 (Tenn. Crim. App. 2000).
Viewed in a light most favorable to the state, the evidence revealed that the victim died of
multiple injuries brutally inflicted by the defendant. The defendant stabbed the victim numerous
times causing wounds to her neck and body. Dr. Smith stated the wounds to the victim’s neck
indicated two to three passes of a knife on each side in addition to deeper wounds injuring her
jugular vein, carotid artery and windpipe. According to Dr. Smith, the victim’s injuries also
included blows to her head with a blunt object, wounds to her torso injuring her liver and lungs,
injuries to her arm and finger consistent with an attempt to deflect a sharp object, and “road rash”
consistent with forced contact with pavement. Dr. Smith further testified that the stab wounds could
not have been caused by the victim falling on a knife and the stabbing wounds, head trauma injuries
and “road rash” were inflicted while the victim was still alive.
The evidence also showed that after the defendant attacked and fatally injured the victim, he
made no effort to assist her or render aid. Instead, the defendant tried to hide and destroy the
evidence of his crime. The defendant removed the victim from his residence by putting her out of
a window into the garage. After putting the victim in the bed of his truck, the defendant deposited
her body in the street. The defendant then returned to his residence, wiped down his truck, washed
his clothes, and placed a drop cloth over the blood in his living room. Later, when the defendant’s
team leader came by his residence, the defendant did not allow him into the house because of the
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blood. The defendant’s attempts to hide the evidence, the brutality of the defendant’s attack on the
victim, the multiple wounds inflicted, and the defendant’s abandonment of the victim in a deserted
street support a finding of an intentional and premeditated killing. In our view, a rational jury could
infer that sufficient evidence exists to support the defendant’s conviction.
CONCLUSION
Based on the foregoing, we affirm the conviction and sentence of the defendant.
___________________________________
J.C. McLIN, JUDGE
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| null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Observations and provocations from The Times' Opinion staff
Campaign 2012: Another round coming in the HPV debate?
October 25, 2011 | 4:57
pm
It's too bad we have to wait until Nov. 9 for the next GOP presidential debate, because a federal advisory commission just breathed new life into the tiff over vaccinating kids to prevent sexually transmitted disease.
As you may recall, Rep. Michele Bachmann (R-Minn.) lit into Texas Gov. Rick Perry at a debate last month for ordering public schools to administer the human papillomavirus vaccine to pre-teen girls. Although parents could have pulled their daughters out of the program, the order triggered so much outrage that the Texas legislature stopped it from going into effect.
The Centers for Disease Control sides with Perry on this one (as does The Times' editorial board, to a degree). It has called since 2006 for the routine vaccination of 11- to 12-year-old girls for HPV. And on Tuesday, the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices unanimously recommended that 11- to 12-year-old boys be routinely vaccinated for HPV as well. The committee had previously recommended only that the vaccine be made available on request to males between the ages of 9 and 26.
The objection to Perry's vaccine program came largely from parents, who argued that the state was usurping their rights, and social conservatives, who were concerned that the vaccinations would encourage premarital sex. But as with any attempt to contain a communicable disease, an effective defense depends on mass participation.
One pernicious thing about HPV is that people can carry the virus without realizing it. That's especially troubling because the virus has been linked to potentially deadly cervical, vaginal, vulval and anal cancers, in addition to causing genital warts. If there were a vaccine that prevented breast cancer or brain tumors, would parents hesitate to have their children inoculated?
Bachmann has objected broadly to school vaccination programs, and made the unsubstantiated claim in an interview that the HPV vaccine by Gardasil was potentially a "very dangerous drug." The CDC disagrees, saying there have been about 40 reports of serious side effects per every million vaccinations. There's no way to tell whether the vaccinations caused those side effects or just happened to coincide with them.
By contrast, the lethality of cervical cancer is clear. It kills about 4,000 women in this country each year.
Vaccinating boys will help guard them against HPV-related cancers that afflict gays, but statistically speaking that's not the main benefit of the shots. The main benefit, in terms of sheer numbers, would be stopping HPV from being spread by males to unvaccinated females.
Perry said he erred in not educating the public about the benefits of the vaccine before signing the order. But he defended the policy, saying the goal was to protect against cervical cancer. That seems like ample justification for vaccinating boys as well. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Brush Disposal Act of 1916
The Brush Disposal Act of 1916, was a federal legislative act of the United States. It stipulated that private timber company purchasers of United States National Forest timber be required by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture to deposit the estimated cost of brush and debris removal resulting from their cutting operations with a special fund at the U.S. Treasury which would remain available until expended.
Category:1916 in the environment
Category:1916 in law
Category:United States federal environmental legislation | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
In the manufacture of glassware by the conventional process using an individual section (I.S.) machine, a gob of molten glass is first formed into a parison by either pressing or blowing in a blank or parison-forming mould at one station of the machine. Subsequently, the parison is blown into the final shape of the desired article of glassware in a blow mould at another station of the machine as a result of the application of air under pressure to the inside of the parison. Both moulds are formed with mould parts which are separated to permit removal of a parison or article of glassware and brought together again in a closed position of the mould for formation of the next parison or article.
In this known process, difficulties arise from time to time due to breakage of a parison at the blank station and/or breakage of a parison or an article of glassware in the blow mould. When there is breakage of either the parison or the article as aforesaid, a residue of broken glass ("cullet") can be left in the blank or blow mould and the cullet can prevent the formation of a satisfactory parison or aritcle of glassware in the succeeding cycle of a machine.
Cullet which remains in either the blank mould or the blow mould following breakage or malfunction of the parison-forming or article-shaping process in either the blank mould or the blow mould will cool and harden and may impede the closing of the parts of the blank mould or the blow mould in succeeding cycles of the machine. Unless the presence of such cullet in either the blank mould or the blow mould is quickly detected by the operator of the machine and appropriate action taken to prevent several further cycles of the machine taking place, the presence of the cooled, and therefore hard, cullet in the mould can lead to serious damage to either of the moulds when their operating mechanisms, which generate very considerable forces, attempt to close the mould parts, with a result that the machine may be put out of operation for a considerable period until replacement of the damaged mould can be undertaken. There is thus a loss of manufacturing time while the moulds are replaced and the replacement moulds brought up to the correct working temperature.
It is clearly desirable therefore to provide some means by which the malfunction leading to breakage and formation of cullet which impedes the closing of either the blank mould or the blow mould is immediately detected and action taken to prevent more than one further cycle of operation taking place in at least that mould where the malfunction has occurred. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Fluoxetine versus trimipramine in the treatment of depression in geriatric patients.
Fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), and trimipramine, a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA), were compared in terms of efficacy and tolerability in a six-week, parallel group, double-blind pilot study in 41 geriatric patients with major depression (61 - 85 years old). The Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAMD-17), the Montgomery-Asberg Rating Scale (MADRS), the Adjective Mood Scale (Bf-S), the Clinical Global Impression (CGI), and the Patients Global Impression (PGI) were used to measure changes in depressive symptoms. Improvement with treatment was found on all scales. Efficacy and tolerability were similar in both groups. No statistically significant differences were found. These findings suggest that fluoxetine and trimipramine are comparable in terms of efficacy and tolerability in the treatment of major depression in geriatric patients. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
I’m planning to submit dplyr 0.6.0 to CRAN on May 11 (in four weeks time). In preparation, I’d like to announce that the release candidate, dplyr 0.5.0.9002 is now available. I would really appreciate it if you’d try it out and report any problems. This will ensure that the official release has as few bugs as possible.
Installation
Install the pre-release version with:
# install.packages("devtools") devtools::install_github("tidyverse/dplyr")
If you discover any problems, please file a minimal reprex on GitHub. You can roll back to the released version with:
install.packages("dplyr")
Features
dplyr 0.6.0 is a major release including over 100 bug fixes and improvements. There are three big changes that I want to touch on here:
Databases
Improved encoding support (particularly for CJK on windows)
Tidyeval, a new framework for programming with dplyr
You can see a complete list of changes in the draft release notes.
Databases
Almost all database related code has been moved out of dplyr and into a new package, dbplyr. This makes dplyr simpler, and will make it easier to release fixes for bugs that only affect databases.
To install the development version of dbplyr so you can try it out, run:
devtools::install_github("hadley/dbplyr")
There’s one major change, as well as a whole heap of bug fixes and minor improvements. It is now no longer necessary to create a remote “src”. Instead you can work directly with the database connection returned by DBI, reflecting the robustness of the DBI ecosystem. Thanks largely to the work of Kirill Muller (funded by the R Consortium) DBI backends are now much more consistent, comprehensive, and easier to use. That means that there’s no longer a need for a layer between you and DBI.
You can continue to use src_mysql() , src_postgres() , and src_sqlite() (which still live in dplyr), but I recommend a new style that makes the connection to DBI more clear:
con <- DBI::dbConnect(RSQLite::SQLite(), ":memory:") DBI::dbWriteTable(con, "iris", iris) #> [1] TRUE iris2 <- tbl(con, "iris") iris2 #> Source: table<iris> [?? x 5] #> Database: sqlite 3.11.1 [:memory:] #> #> Sepal.Length Sepal.Width Petal.Length Petal.Width Species #> <dbl> <dbl> <dbl> <dbl> <chr> #> 1 5.1 3.5 1.4 0.2 setosa #> 2 4.9 3.0 1.4 0.2 setosa #> 3 4.7 3.2 1.3 0.2 setosa #> 4 4.6 3.1 1.5 0.2 setosa #> 5 5.0 3.6 1.4 0.2 setosa #> 6 5.4 3.9 1.7 0.4 setosa #> 7 4.6 3.4 1.4 0.3 setosa #> 8 5.0 3.4 1.5 0.2 setosa #> 9 4.4 2.9 1.4 0.2 setosa #> 10 4.9 3.1 1.5 0.1 setosa #> # ... with more rows
This is particularly useful if you want to perform non-SELECT queries as you can do whatever you want with DBI::dbGetQuery() and DBI::dbExecute() .
If you’ve implemented a database backend for dplyr, please read the backend news to see what’s changed from your perspective (not much). If you want to ensure your package works with both the current and previous version of dplyr, see wrap_dbplyr_obj() for helpers.
Character encoding
We have done a lot of work to ensure that dplyr works with encodings other that Latin1 on Windows. This is most likely to affect you if you work with data that contains Chinese, Japanese, or Korean (CJK) characters. dplyr should now just work with such data.
Tidyeval
dplyr has a new approach to non-standard evaluation (NSE) called tidyeval. Tidyeval is described in detail in a new vignette about programming with dplyr but, in brief, it gives you the ability to interpolate values in contexts where dplyr usually works with expressions:
my_var <- quo(homeworld) starwars %>% group_by(!!my_var) %>% summarise_at(vars(height:mass), mean, na.rm = TRUE) #> # A tibble: 49 × 3 #> homeworld height mass #> <chr> <dbl> <dbl> #> 1 Alderaan 176.3333 64.0 #> 2 Aleen Minor 79.0000 15.0 #> 3 Bespin 175.0000 79.0 #> 4 Bestine IV 180.0000 110.0 #> 5 Cato Neimoidia 191.0000 90.0 #> 6 Cerea 198.0000 82.0 #> 7 Champala 196.0000 NaN #> 8 Chandrila 150.0000 NaN #> 9 Concord Dawn 183.0000 79.0 #> 10 Corellia 175.0000 78.5 #> # ... with 39 more rows
This will make it much easier to eliminate copy-and-pasted dplyr code by extracting repeated code into a function. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
1.We
are now on the 10th and final lesson on "warnings to Israel" about
the coming destruction.
a)There
are 48 chapters in Ezekiel.The first 24 of them cover this
topic.
b)If
you asked me to only teach either the first half or second half of Ezekiel, I
would much rather cover the second half.The 2nd half
get into sections about restoration of the nation of Israel, its long term
survival and eight chapters on what life will be like during the 1,000 years
when the Messiah (Jesus) reigns on earth.Before we
can discuss God's promises to Israel, first we have to finish the first half of
the book on "accountability".
c)The
fact there is a second half of Ezekiel also shows that God is not interesting
in leaving the nation of Israel in this "dead state".There is a future for this nation.
2.Despite
my bias opinion, ☺ God decides that
"half" of Ezekiel's ministry is to be spent describing the
destruction that is to come on the nation of Israel.
a)In
fact, the next few chapters (after this lesson) focus on the surrounding
nations.It is as if the Israelites then
wonder, "Yes, Lord, we're bad, but what about those guys!"Before we get to all of that, we still have two more chapters on the
topic of the destruction of Israel.
b)So,
why does God, through Ezekiel, focus so much on this topic?
i)Part
of it is to remember the principal that "Judgment begins in the House of
the Lord".In other words, God primarily
focuses on those who are "called to be His".In modern times that is the idea that God focuses on those who have
committed their lives to Him and He disciplines those who are His people!
ii)God
cares about us being a good witness for Him.When we turn
from Him, there is a price to be paid, which is the key point of the first half
of Ezekiel.
iii)Ezekiel
so far, is a big lesson to teach us what God expects of those who follow Him.A key word is "obedience".As I've
stated many times in these lessons, a Christian cannot lose their salvation by
"sinning too much" as long as they are still trusting in Jesus as
both Lord and Savior.However, there is still a price
to be paid for sin in this lifetime.God forgives
us of our sins when we ask Him, but often, there is still a price to be paid
for that sin here in our lifetime.
iv)If
we have faith that God is god, our actions should follow that faith.
3.With
all of that out of my system, ☺ we can now talk about Chapters
23 and 24.
a)Chapter
23 is a poetic dirge about thedestruction
of the land.Back
in Chapter 20, we had a similar dirge describing the history of the nation of
Israel and how its sinful practices were around since the nation first existed
in Egypt.
b)The dirge in Chapter 23
focuses on Israel since it first split into two separate nations several
hundred years prior to Ezekiel's writing.
c)The main point of this
dirge is about the accountability of the Southern Kingdom of Judah.This kingdom was still standing and is
the main focus of the first half of Ezekiel.The Northern Kingdom of "Israel" fell one
hundred years earlier.Despite
the mistakes made by the northern kingdom, the Southern Kingdom should have
known better and learned from the mistakes of the Northern kingdom
i)The related point of the
dirge is that theSouthern Kingdom is
about to end because they repeated the mistakes of the Northern Kingdom.
d)Chapter
24 marks the date when the siege on Jerusalem finally happens.Chapter 24 focuses on the outcome of the siege and the fall of Jerusalem,
as the capital of the Southern Kingdom of Judah.It describes the fate of those living in Judah.I recently saw a show that recounted this event.Over one hundred thousand Jews were killed by the siege!
e)With
all that said, my simple title for this lesson is, "accountability".In other words, both chapters focus on the accountability issues of the
Jews living at that time.
4.If
you only see this lesson as a history lesson about Israel, you are missing the
point.
a)In
fact, one of the reasons for the fall of Jerusalem is they failed to learn from
the history of the "northern kingdom" and made the same mistakes.
b)God
wants us to learn from this history and not repeat the same mistakes.God wants us to read our bibles and know we are accountable.My point is not about the United States or any particular nation, but
about individual Christians failing to realize that just because we saved, does
not mean that our mistakes have prices to be paid now in this lifetime.
c)In
other words, we Christians can and do suffer due the sins we cause even though
we are forgiven, if we ask for that forgiveness.Forgiveness does not automatically mean there is no price to be paid for
that sin.God may eternally forgive us of
those sins, but God still wants to "clean us of that sin" if for no
other reason then that we donít repeat the same mistakes and be a better
witness for Him.
i)Sins
where we hurt other people must still be dealt with even if we are forgiven.Crimes against society must still be paid even if we are forgiven by God.
d)In
summary, don't just read this lesson and think, "Oh those poor people who
lived about 2,500 years ago".What God
wants us to see are the consequences of turning from Him and think about that
in comparison to how we are living at any given moment.
e)On
that happy thought, let's start the text. ☺
5.Chapter
23, Verse 1:The word of the LORD came to me: 2 "Son
of man, there were two women, daughters of the same mother. 3 They
became prostitutes in Egypt, engaging in prostitution from their youth. In that
land their breasts were fondled and their virgin bosoms caressed. 4 The older
was named Oholah, and her sister was Oholibah. They were mine and gave birth to
sons and daughters. Oholah is Samaria, and Oholibah is Jerusalem.
a)Chapter
23 lays out a parable of two women, named "Oholah and Oholibah".
i)This parable leaves no
doubt about who this parable is about.Verse 5 says Oholah represents Samaria and Oholibah
represents Jerusalem.
ii)The way I keep the names
straight is the longer name of the two means Jerusalem.If that is of any help. ☺
iii)The City of Samaria was
the capital of the Jewish Northern Kingdom of Israel.
iv)The City of Jerusalem
was the capital of the Jewish Southern Kingdom of Judah.
a)In this parable, God
associated each nation with its capital city.
v)Remember that the
Northern Kingdom ended about 100 years prior to the time of Ezekiel.That is why Ezekiel does not give a lot
of verses about the Northern kingdom except as an example the Southern Kingdom
should have learned from!
b)The
verses say the two women were "daughters of the same woman".The idea is that both were part of a single country called Israel from
the days of Moses until Solomon.
c)The
verse said both women engaged in prostitution from their youth.We will discover in this chapter that prostitution becomes a "code
word" for their idolatry.
6.Verse
5:"Oholah
engaged in prostitution while she was still mine; and she lusted after her
lovers, the Assyrians--warriors 6 clothed in blue, governors and commanders, all of
them handsome young men, and mounted horsemen. 7 She gave
herself as a prostitute to all the elite of the Assyrians and defiled herself
with all the idols of everyone she lusted after. 8 She did
not give up the prostitution she began in Egypt, when during her youth men
slept with her, caressed her virgin bosom and poured out their lust upon her.
a)Verses 5 through 10 deal
with Oholah, which represents the "long dead" northern kingdom of
"Israel".Verse
11 to the end of the chapter deal with the southern kingdom of Judah or
"Oholibah".Remember
that the only reason God discusses the northern kingdom is as an example the
Southern Kingdom should have, but failed to learn from.
b)The
first thing to note is that the text is not being "literal" when it
talks about prostitution.Remember that Oholah is a
nickname for Israel.It is not a literal woman being
described.
c)In these verses, Oholah
is described as being engaged in prostitution with the Assyrians.What does that mean?One has to remember that in the bible,
adultery is often used as a synonym for idolatry.That is because adultery is about cheating on one's
promise to be loyal to one's spouse.Idolatry is cheating on one's promise to be loyal to
God.Therefore, the bible
often uses adultery or prostitution as a synonym for idolatry.
d)The text says Oholah is
guilty of prostitution with the Assyrians as she was with Egypt.
i)There is a reference in
Chapter 20, Verse 8 to this idolatry.When God recounted the history of Israel, He said
(through Ezekiel) that Israel as a (whole) nation was guilty of idolatry as far
back as their slavery years in Egypt.
ii)With
that said, the fall of the northern kingdom of "Israel" was to the
Assyrians.Prior to the fall, the last king
of the northern kingdom made a loyalty oath to the Assyrians.Late, that Israeli king tried to break that commitment by seeking help
from Egypt.When the Assyrians no longer
received "tribute" payment from the Israelites, then the northern
kingdom was attacked and destroyed.
iii)This
is all covered in 2nd Kings Chapter 17.Remember
this is "ancient history" as far as the southern kingdom of Judah was
concerned.This event was about one hundred
years prior to Ezekiel's writing.
e)The
other point is that the northern kingdom of Israel, called "Oholah"
in this story also started going after the gods of the Assyrians.It wasn't that they were just paying the Assyrians not to attack them,
but those Israelites started worshiping the Assyrian gods.
f)This
is why God brought an end to the northern kingdom of Israel.Like the southern kingdom of Judah, they were guilty of idolatry, again, roughly
100 years prior.
7.Verse
9:"Therefore
I handed her over to her lovers, the Assyrians, for whom she lusted. 10 They
stripped her naked, took away her sons and daughters and killed her with the
sword. She became a byword among women, and punishment was inflicted on her.
a)One
of the things I debated in writing this lesson is how much to get into
"actual history".One can study Ezekiel,
especially a chapter like this and spend a lot of time comparing actual history
to Ezekiel's predictions. How I handled it was to, "say enough to explain
what the verse means, and then move on".The main purpose of these bible studies is not to give history lessons,
but to explain how the text applies to our lives.
i)If
you are interested in the historical aspects that tie to Ezekiel, the final
lesson of my study in this book will give a biography with some good sources.
b)Speaking of historical
notes: ☺ This verse recounts how the Assyrians attacked and
conquered the northern kingdom.The way the Assyrians would prevent future rebellion
was to split up people they conquer.In other words, most of the Jewish residents of the
northern kingdom were now scattered through the Assyrian empire.Some remained.Eventually, the Babylonians also
conquered the Assyrians and the Jews living in the Assyrian Empire also became
part of the Babylonian empire.
c)When you read the New
Testament, the Jews living in Jerusalem in the first century had a built-in
hatred of anybody that was "Samaritan".That is because the Jewish people of the northern kingdom
became a mixed nation of Jews and other groups that were relocated in that
area.The Samaritans (after
the Assyrian captivity) were looked down upon by the Jews living in Jerusalem
as "second class" Jews to put it lightly.
d)OK John, all of this is
interesting history.What
is the application?
i)First of all, it is
about loyalty to God.To
engage in idolatry is as bad in God's eye as engaging in prostitution or any
other form of adultery.Committing
our lives to serving God is "just that", a full time commitment.
ii)So will God punish our
church, our town or our country if we collectively turn from Him?First of all, I wouldn't want to test God
that way and find out. ☺ The answer is "He can", but it is His
decision to make, and not mine.Understand that turning from God has consequences in
this lifetime as God demands loyalty.
iii)There is also a
"danger" in that the price of knowing one's bible is we are now more
accountable to God as we should know better.The more you know about God, the more accountable God
holds you.The
early verses about the northern kingdom were to teach the southern kingdom of
Judah that they should have learned from the mistakes of the northern kingdom.In a similar manner, God holds us
accountable from what we know about Him.
a)CS Lewis is famous
(among many other things) for referring to the Holy Spirit as the "hound
from heaven". The point is one of the functions of the Holy Spirit is to
"hound us" to keep us loyal and close to God!
8.Verse
11:"Her
sister Oholibah saw this, yet in her lust and prostitution she was more
depraved than her sister. 12 She too lusted after the Assyrians--governors and
commanders, warriors in full dress, mounted horsemen, all handsome young men. 13 I saw
that she too defiled herself; both of them went the same way.
a)In Verse 11, we start
talking about the southern kingdom of Judah.The illustration calls her a prostitute named
"Oholibah".The
point here is that at the same time the northern kingdom of "Israel"
ended, the southern kingdom was also afraid of being destroyed by the Assyrians
and they also tried to make peace treaties and pay tribute to them.
b)The point is the
southern kingdom is guilty of the same sins as the northern kingdom.
9.Verse 14:"But she carried her prostitution
still further. She saw men portrayed on a wall, figures of Chaldeans portrayed
in red, 15 with belts around their waists and flowing turbans on
their heads; all of them looked like Babylonian chariot officers, natives of
Chaldea. 16 As soon as she saw them, she lusted after them and
sent messengers to them in Chaldea. 17 Then the Babylonians came to her, to the bed of love,
and in their lust they defiled her. After she had been defiled by them, she
turned away from them in disgust. 18 When she carried on her prostitution openly and
exposed her nakedness, I turned away from her in disgust, just as I had turned
away from her sister. 19 Yet she became more and more promiscuous as she
recalled the days of her youth, when she was a prostitute in Egypt. 20 There
she lusted after her lovers, whose genitals were like those of donkeys and
whose emission was like that of horses. 21 So you longed for the
lewdness of your youth, when in Egypt your bosom was caressed and your young
breasts fondled.
a)Remember that we are
reading about the history of the southern kingdom with an emphasis on how they
have been idolatrous going back to the days of Egyptian slavery.
b)The southern kingdom of
Judah was spared from the Assyrians due to a miraculous intervention by God.
(See 2nd Kings 19:35 on that point.)One would think that after that miracle, the southern
kingdom would stay loyal to God.They did for only a short time, and later started
making alliances with the Babylonians.
c)The text has references
to Chaldea.This
is part of the Babylonian empire.
d)Long before the
Babylonians destroyed the southern kingdom, the Jewish people sought alliances
with the Babylonians.There
is a reference to the king of the Southern Kingdom giving an oath of loyalty to
the Babylonians. (See 2nd Chronicles 36:13).
e)What is implied in the
text is that the Israelites did more than make a political alliance with the
Babylonians. They went after the gods of the Babylonians.
f)Verse 20 has a reference
to the "genitals of donkeys and the emission of horses".This is not saying the Israelites had sex
with animals.It
is a colorful way of saying those of the southern kingdom of Judah started
worshiping the gods of the Babylonians with "such lust" that they
worshipped the Babylonian gods far more than they cared about "God".
g)One has to remember that
when a person engages in sex with a prostitute, the "customer" rarely
stays loyal.The
customer understands the prostitute is just that.I state that as there are hints in the text that the
Babylonians soon didn't care for the Israelites.It is as if they were thinking, "Well, if you are
not loyal to your own God, why should we take you seriously".The point is once one turns from God, it
usually goes "downhill" from there.
10.Verse
22:Therefore,
Oholibah, this is what the Sovereign LORD says: I will stir up your lovers
against you, those you turned away from in disgust, and I will bring them
against you from every side-- 23 the Babylonians and all the Chaldeans, the men of
Pekod and Shoa and Koa, and all the Assyrians with them, handsome young men,
all of them governors and commanders, chariot officers and men of high rank,
all mounted on horses.24 They will come against
you with weapons, chariots and wagons and with a throng of people; they will
take up positions against you on every side with large and small shields and
with helmets. I will turn you over to them for punishment, and they will punish
you according to their standards.
a)The point here is that
the Southern Kingdom of Judah started relying on the Babylonians more than God.It was more than just one king making a
deal with another king.It
is about the people of Judah starting to worship the gods of the Babylonians.
b)God is saying in effect,
"I am so disgusted by you, I am going to have the Babylonians and their
allies attack you".The
other nations listed in this paragraph are their allies.
c)In a sense, we are now
caught up with "history up to the moment".Remember that Chapter 24 begins the
actual moment the siege on Jerusalem begins.We are now in Chapter 23 which was a relatively short
time span prior to that moment.In these verses, God is describing the weapons of war
that are being brought up to attack Jerusalem.Just like God has stated in earlier chapters, the idea
here is about the defeat of Jerusalem and the surrounding kingdom of Judah by
the Babylonian army.
d)The last part of Verse
24 says the Babylonians will punish the Jewish people according to "their
standards".We'll
read in a moment how brutal that is.The point is God will not allow the Babylonians to
"lighten up" just because they are attacking His people.
11.Verse
25:I will direct my
jealous anger against you, and they will deal with you in fury. They will cut
off your noses and your ears, and those of you who are left will fall by the
sword. They will take away your sons and daughters, and those of you who are
left will be consumed by fire. 26 They will also strip you of your clothes and take
your fine jewelry.
a)In
these verses, we get into some of the actual results of when the Babylonians
attacked the kingdom of Judah.The graphic details of what
happened come across, even in the English translation.The point is that this is not a pleasant event.It is not like the Jewish people were quickly killed or captured.There was a lot of suffering involved.
b)Let me comment on the
reference to "cut off your noses and ears".There was a common practice in the
ancient Middle East to cut up the faces of prostitutes.That was the punishment for that crime.The idea of cutting up the face is
"no one would ever want to be with them again".The Babylonians did this to many of the
Jewish women who they suspected were involved in the worship practices of the
pagan gods.
c)Part of the punishment
was "taking away your sons and daughters".In other words, parents would be killed
and the children would be taken away as slaves to Babylon.
d)The last punishment
mentioned is the loss of clothes and jewelry.
e)If all of this sounds
scary and disgusting, that's the idea.Warfare is not civil.It is brutal and deadly.This is why the Jews rightly feared being conquered by
anyone.When
God threatened to bring this nation to an end, it was in a painful way so the
survivors remember it!
12.Verse
27:So
I will put a stop to the lewdness and prostitution you began in Egypt. You will
not look on these things with longing or remember Egypt anymore.
a)As bad as all of this
was, one good thing happened to the Israelites after the 70-year captivity in
Babylon:They
no longer followed idols.The
reason God picked this specific punishment for the Israelites is that it cured
them of their desire to worship idols.
b)When the Israelites
returned the land 70 years later, they still had lots of problems, but they
were never again guilty of corporate idolatry against the true God.That is God's point here in Verse 27.
13.Verse
28:"For
this is what the Sovereign LORD says: I am about to hand you over to those you
hate, to those you turned away from in disgust. 29 They
will deal with you in hatred and take away everything you have worked for. They
will leave you naked and bare, and the shame of your prostitution will be
exposed. Your lewdness and promiscuity 30 have brought this upon you, because you lusted after
the nations and defiled yourself with their idols.
a)God, through Ezekiel is
summing up what is going to happen to Jerusalem and Judah in these verses.The Babylonians will kill the Jewish
people or leave them naked.
b)If
some of the text sounds repetitive, remember that this is written in a poetic
style and make a strong point about the coming destruction of Jerusalem and
Judah.
c)The "real
crime" is the nation of Judah's failure to be loyal to the true God.The nation of Judah turned to Babylon for
protection, as opposed to asking God for protection.Further, the Jewish people started
worshipping the Babylonian gods.Now "the God" is getting revenge in the
sense that He is saying, "You want to go after the Babylonians, let me
show you what that disloyalty is going to cost you!"
d)Let me make a related
point:Does
this mean a nation today that collectively trusts in God cannot make a treaty
with other nations?The
nation of Israel was unique in God said that they were to trust in Him alone
for their protection.That
does not mean Israel cannot have an army.God has worked through their own armies for their
protection.It
means they should not trust in other nations for help and ignore God.
i)Does this apply to other
nations today?Not
really.Christians
are a "united" nation spiritually, but we are not called to be united
in a single land.If
anything Christians are called to spread out over the world to "spread the
gospel".There
is no single country that "collectively" all worship God.The land of Israel was unique in that
accountability aspect.
14.Verse
31:You
have gone the way of your sister; so I will put her cup into your hand.32 "This is what the Sovereign LORD says: "You
will drink your sister's cup, a cup large and deep; it will bring scorn and
derision, for it holds so much.33 You will
be filled with drunkenness and sorrow, the cup of ruin and desolation, the cup
of your sister Samaria.34 You will drink it and
drain it dry; you will dash it to pieces and tear your breasts.I have spoken, declares the Sovereign
LORD.
a)In these verses, God
compares the punishment to a "cup" to be drunk.The idea is God's fury is being compared
to a liquid in a cup and the whole cup is being poured out.
b)Verse 33 says they will
be filled with "drunkenness and sorrow".I don't believe the drunkenness is
literal.The
idea is this punishment is going to come upon them and they will realize that
in a sense it is their own fault for turning away from God.
i)There are other places
in the bible where God compares His wrath to a liquid in a cup that is poured
out.See Revelation 14:10
and 16:19 as a cross-reference.
c)These verses are saying
that the southern nation of Judah is as bad, if not worse than the northern
kingdom of Israel that died roughly a hundred years prior.
d)OK
John, I get the idea that Jerusalem was doomed.Why should I care?The one lesson to remember is
that God cares for us too much to leave us alone!If we commit our lives to follow Him and turn away, the "Spirit of
the Hound" (again, CS Lewis's term for the Holy Spirit) will stay on our
case and work toward getting us back on the right path.
i)How
does God get us to turn back to Him?Usually by
making our situation so undesirable without Him that eventually we "can't
stand it any longer" and want to turn our lives around to please Him.That's what He is doing with the Israelites and that is what He does with
our lives as well.
15.Verse
35:"Therefore
this is what the Sovereign LORD says: Since you have forgotten me and thrust me
behind your back, you must bear the consequences of your lewdness and
prostitution."
a)This verse ends this
section with the reminder that Jewish people living in Jerusalem and Judah now
have to bear the price for the sins they have committed.
16.Verse 36:The LORD said
to me: "Son of man, will you judge Oholah and Oholibah? Then confront them
with their detestable practices, 37 for they have committed adultery and blood is on
their hands. They committed adultery with their idols; they even sacrificed
their children, whom they bore to me, as food for them. 38 They
have also done this to me: At that same time they defiled my sanctuary and
desecrated my Sabbaths. 39 On the very day they sacrificed their children to
their idols, they entered my sanctuary and desecrated it. That is what they did
in my house.
a)From Verse 36 to the end
of the chapter, we still are telling this parable of Oholah and Oholibah, but
the emphasis shifts from their fate to what was their particular sins.Most English bibles will switch the text
style here from "poetic format" to straight text.
b)Verse 37 has another
reminder that the Jewish people went after other gods.It was more than just bowing down to
these gods.They
would sacrifice their children to them!
c)The idea of this false
worship is that in order to show their loyalty to these false gods, they would
sacrifice their children to show how much they trust these gods to provide for
them in the future.The
sacrifices were also a form of abortion in that the sexual acts were results of
the rituals to these false gods.
d)Verse 38 and 39 teach
that the Israelites had "mixed loyalties".They would worship the false gods and
then they would go to "The Temple" to worship the true God.That is what the text meant by defiling
the sanctuary and desecrating my Sabbaths in Verse 38.
i)I heard an interesting
story from a policeman who went on to become a pastor.He was in attendance at a church and saw
a man raising his arms to God in the front row.The policeman told his wife that he arrested that same
guy for beating his wife the night before.(Source Bob Davis).It is possible that sinner asked for forgiveness.The point is just because someone is
"good in church" does not mean their lifestyle is acceptable to God.
ii)God does not tolerate
mixed loyalty.That's
the underlying message here.Serving God is not just a matter of showing up to
church once a week.The
Israelites still did that to "cover all their bases".Trusting God is about accountability and
living a life pleasing to God all the time and not when we just come to church.That's the point of these verses and my
little story of the policeman and the man he arrested.
17.Verse 40:"They even sent messengers for men
who came from far away, and when they arrived you bathed yourself for them,
painted your eyes and put on your jewelry. 41 You sat on an elegant
couch, with a table spread before it on which you had placed the incense and
oil that belonged to me.
a)These verses continue to
describe idolatry going on the Southern Kingdom.The idea is that the Jews living there not only had
sexual intercourse in order to honor foreign gods, but they would fix
themselves up like prostitutes and offer sex to others.
18.Verse
42: "The noise of a carefree crowd
was around her; Sabeans were brought from the desert along with men from the
rabble, and they put bracelets on the arms of the woman and her sister and
beautiful crowns on their heads. 43 Then I said about the one worn out by adultery, `Now
let them use her as a prostitute, for that is all she is.' 44 And they
slept with her. As men sleep with a prostitute, so they slept with those lewd
women, Oholah and Oholibah. 45 But righteous men will sentence them to the
punishment of women who commit adultery and shed blood, because they are
adulterous and blood is on their hands.
a)Verse
42 mentions Sabeans and "men from the rabble".Both terms refer to various residents of the desert area to the east and
south of Jerusalem.The point is these men heard
about the "free sex" available in Israel and would come to satisfy
themselves.
b)Way
back in Chapter 16 (Verses 31 to 34) Ezekiel said that the sexual idolatry was
so bad, that the Israelites were not accepting payment for their sexual
advances, but were paying strangers to have sex with them.That is similar to what is being described here.
c)By
the way, don't think the men of Judah were innocent and the women were guilty.Remember that God is comparing Israel to a prostitute for its idolatry.Yes, God through Ezekiel is describing literal prostitution as a symptom
of the bigger problem, but the main point is the whole nation is guilty of
turning from God.
d)Verse
45 says that "righteous men" will sentence the Israelites to the same
punishment given to those who commit adultery and shed (innocent) blood.In other words, some of the face-cutting we read about earlier as well as
murder will occur.
19.Verse
46:"This
is what the Sovereign LORD says: Bring a mob against them and give them over to
terror and plunder. 47 The mob will stone them and cut them down with their
swords; they will kill their sons and daughters and burn down their houses.48 "So I will put an end to lewdness in the land,
that all women may take warning and not imitate you. 49 You will
suffer the penalty for your lewdness and bear the consequences of your sins of
idolatry. Then you will know that I am the Sovereign LORD."
a)God
is saying in effect that the Israelites living in the land will be maimed and
killed for the sin of turning from Him.All of the
Israelite effort of trying to appease foreign gods will not help them in the
day of destruction.
b)The
chapter ends with another reminder that the Israelites will know God is behind
this.
c)OK,
I know this is a tough chapter.The language is rough, and it's
even rougher if you do a word by word study of the original Hebrew.What is really going on is God is trying to plead with people to
individually repent of their sins even though the planned punishment is already
set.
d)Finally,
what is the application?The application is that it is
never too late to repent of one's sins as long as one is breathing.It may be too late to stop planned punishments, but it is never too late
to ask God for forgiveness.
i)The
related point is to not let it get this bad before we turn back to God.
ii)It
comes back to my lesson title of "accountability".We are all accountable to God.Yes, He does
forgive us of our sins if we sincerely turn to Him when we mess up and try to
turn from that sin.If one is struggling with a long
term issue, the answer is to keep praying about it and seek the help of other
Christians.Yes God forgives us, but we are
still accountable and yes, we can still suffer the consequences of those sins
in this lifetime.
e)The
good news is we only have one more chapter on the topic of the nation of Israel
sinning and having to pay the price for their sins.Let's finish the front "half" of Ezekiel:
20.Chapter
24, Verse 1:In the ninth year, in the tenth month on the tenth
day, the word of the LORD came to me: 2 "Son of man, record this date, this very date,
because the king of Babylon has laid siege to Jerusalem this very day.
a)Ezekiel gives another
date here.This
date is when the siege began against Jerusalem.A siege is where an army surrounds a city and then and
starves it out.The
date generally regarded as January of 587 BC or 588 BC.We are certain of the January part, but
scholars argue over the year.The siege lasted 18 months (see 2nd Kings 25:1-2).
21.Verse 3:Tell this rebellious house a parable and
say to them: `This is what the Sovereign LORD says: "`Put on the cooking
pot; put it on and pour water into it.4 Put into
it the pieces of meat, all the choice pieces--the leg and the shoulder. Fill it
with the best of these bones; 5 take the pick of the flock. Pile wood beneath it for
the bones; bring it to a boil and cook the bones in it.
a)We have here the
beginning of another parable.Ezekiel is told to take a cooking pot.In the pot, Ezekiel is to put in the best
pieces of meat, add water and bring itto
a boil.The
best meat refers to the (combined) nation of Israel and the fact they were
called by God.Ezekiel
is then told to bring the pot to a boil and cook the meat.
b)Since the chapter
started with the fact the siege in Jerusalem has just begun, the obvious but
sad fact is that the meat represents residents of Jerusalem being
"trapped" in the siege.Remember what a siege is:an army surrounding a city and starving
it out.
22.Verse
6: "`For this is what the Sovereign
LORD says: "`Woe to the city of bloodshed, to the pot now encrusted, whose
deposit will not go away! Empty it piece by piece without casting lots for
them.
a)If you have any doubts
the picture of the boiling pot is not about Jerusalem, then Verse 6 makes it
real clear.Over
the last couple of chapters, there have been a number of references to
Jerusalem being called a "city of bloodshed".(Ezekiel 7:23, 9:9, 22:2-3).
i)In case you've
forgotten, the idea of the "city of bloodshed" is that a lot of
innocent people have already been killed in Jerusalem.It is most likely a reference to the
idolatrous practice of offering babies to false gods.It could also refer to innocent people
being killed in order for others to steal their stuff.
b)Meanwhile, back to the
boiling pot.The
pot is described as being "encrusted".The idea is that the pot represents Jerusalem itself
and is "dirty" due to all of its sins.
c)In the final line of the
verse, Ezekiel is told to take the meat out of the pot "piece by
piece" without casting lots for them.The idea is that no one in the city will be spared.
d)The text does not say
whether or not Ezekiel actually did this as a visual demonstration.It may have just been a story to be
preached, or Ezekiel could have acted it out.
23.Verse
7: " `For the blood she shed is in
her midst: She poured it on the bare rock; she did not pour it on the ground,
where the dust would cover it.8 To stir
up wrath and take revenge I put her blood on the bare rock, so that it would
not be covered.
a)God is making it real
clear here that one of the reasons for this siege is due to all of the innocent
bloodshed cast in Jerusalem.This is about "revenge" for the dead.
b)OK time, for another
"how does this apply to us" break. ☺ Sometimes people do get
away with hurting and killing innocent people.Why does God allow that?You can start by saying, "We do we allow it"
in the sense that we as a society often let guilty people go free.God can just as easily blame our
societies for a lack of justice.
i)I've stated every now
and then that the only way I can sleep at night is knowing that there is a God
and He will judge people fairly one day for their deeds.
ii)Back to the issue:Why doesn't God "do something"
about all the people who get away with evil today?Why aren't cities wiped out like
Jerusalem was back then?
a)The
first answer is sin exists in the world and God allows free choice.If an angel stepped in every time somebody was about to commit some sort
of sin, we would be complaining God never allows free choice.
b)The
second answer is "Maybe God does judge some places."There have been cities in history that have come to an end.We donít know all the reasons, but we have to keep the thought open as a
possibility.
iii)The
one thing I do know is that God is in the "judging business".All people will be judged one day.Sometimes
God allows some places (e.g.:churches, cities, and nations)
to be destroyed (or just come to an end as an effective witness for Him).
iv)The
fact that God is in the "judging business" should keep us on our toes
in terms of watching our behavior.In that
sense, we are back to the "accountability" issue.
v)As
I've stated many times, we are saved by faith, but if we have faith, then our
"works" should just naturally follow that faith.(See James Chapter 2 on this topic.)
c)Meanwhile,
back to Ezekiel.God is stating in these two
verses that He is "taking revenge" on behalf of the innocent people
that have been killed in Jerusalem.
i)Notice
one again, that a location like Jerusalem should have known better.Jerusalem has a higher standard of judgment (for Jewish residents) than
other cities where I'm sure similar sacrifices of human life were given to
false gods.
24.Verse
9:"`Therefore
this is what the Sovereign LORD says: "`Woe to the city of bloodshed! I,
too, will pile the wood high.10 So heap
on the wood and kindle the fire. Cook the meat well, mixing in the spices; and
let the bones be charred.
b)The illustration being
portrayed is God Himself is heating things up so that this will not be a
pleasant meal, but a picture of something "burned to a crisp".
c)The reality of the siege
is that it lasted about 18 months, after which time the army actually came in,
conquered the city and killed (estimated) over 100,000 people.
25.Verse
11:Then
set the empty pot on the coals till it becomes hot and its copper glows so its
impurities may be melted and its deposit burned away.12 It has frustrated all efforts; its heavy deposit has
not been removed, not even by fire.13 "
`Now your impurity is lewdness. Because I tried to cleanse you but you would
not be cleansed from your impurity, you will not be clean again until my wrath
against you has subsided.
a)God
is ending this section with a very visual picture of meat being cooked in a hot
pot and even after the meat is taken out, the pot is kept at a very hot
temperature.The purpose of the "hot
pot" is to clean out the impurities, which is another reference to the
fact that Jerusalem is "beyond hope" and will now get the full amount
of God's wrath.
i)Let
me give you a visual picture:Ever taken a leftover out of the
refrigerator and it turned green?You have to
throw it away as it is beyond saving.Now imagine
that "green thing" in a cooking pot.Some of "the green" stuck to the pot, no matter how hot one got
that pot.That's the visual picture of how
bad the sins got.
b)Remember
that we are coming to the end of a "24 chapter" section describing
the sins and the destruction of Jerusalem and the end of an independent Jewish
nation.While the nation did exist again
in 70 years, it was not under self-rule.Israel
existed subject to other countries until it officially ended in 70AD.In 1946 is when Israel became an independent nation for the first time
since this siege occurred.
26.Verse
14:"`I
the LORD have spoken. The time has come for me to act. I will not hold back; I
will not have pity, nor will I relent. You will be judged according to your
conduct and your actions, declares the Sovereign LORD.'"
a)This is the last line
tied to the "cooking pot" illustration. God's point here is that it
is time for God to act as the Jewish nation is beyond hope.Remember all the negative pictures about
what happens to the people during this siege.God is saying in effect, "I wish I had another
choice, but I don't and now it is time for me to act.
27.Verse
15:The
word of the LORD came to me: 16 "Son of man, with one blow I am about to take
away from you the delight of your eyes. Yet do not lament or weep or shed any
tears. 17 Groan quietly; do not mourn for the dead. Keep your
turban fastened and your sandals on your feet; do not cover the lower part of
your face or eat the customary food of mourners."18 So I spoke to the people in the morning, and in the
evening my wife died. The next morning I did as I had been commanded.
a)OK, here are my favorite
verses in the lesson.For
those of you who have stuck through reading this far, these four verses make a
great point about being a witness for God.
b)In these verses, God
announces to Ezekiel that his wife is going to die that evening.God then told Ezekiel not to do the usual
Jewish customs of mourning.Ezekiel could still weep, but he could not do the
Jewish equivalent of how we prepare for a funeral today.
c)With that said, let's
discuss this a little more.Let's start with the fact Ezekiel is married.This is the first reference to his wife
in the book.Apparently
she traveled with him to Babylon as she died the same day God warned Ezekiel
she would die that evening.
i)Ezekiel's ministry in
Babylon began roughly 5 years earlier.Was she supportive of him?The answer is probably yes, given the fact
she was still living with him.
ii)Think about all the
things God has asked Ezekiel to do over the last 24 chapters.This included laying on his side for over
a year.It
includes visual demonstrations of making a model of Jerusalem, including
surrounding armies.It
included lots of preaching about the coming destruction of the Jewish people.
iii)Despite all of what God
asked of Ezekiel, she stood by her man.In fact the text calls her "the delight of his
eyes".That
is a clue that Ezekiel loved her.
d)Now here's my point.Just because one is saved and just
because one is called by God, does not mean one is exempt from suffering.Let's face it; it must have been tough
enough for Ezekiel to preach against his own people.Now that the siege has finally begun, God
"rewards" Ezekiel by taking away the love of his life.
i)The purpose of God
taking the life of his wife was for a further demonstration to the Jewish
people about the tragedy that is about to happen.
ii)Still, stop and think
about all the times we ask God for "things" in our lives.Here, God takes away the one person
Ezekiel really loves after spending the last five years doing exactly what God
told him to do.If
it were me, I would be angry at God.Give Ezekiel credit.He still did what God told him to do the next day.
a)On a related note,
without the loving support of my wife, I would have a tough time completing
these bible studies.
iii)Does this mean God wants
us to suffer in this lifetime?No.My point is God is under no obligation to grant us any
material benefit including someone to love.We are here to do God's will and not vice versa.If it was God's desire to end the life of
Ezekiel's wife in order to make another point, Ezekiel had to accept it.
iv)Given that, is it ok to
ask for material things?Yes
it is, but one has to accept that God can say no to any request we make of Him.
v)Here is where one has to
keep the eternal perspective in mind.Ezekiel will live forever in heaven.I suspect his wife has the same
privilege.Do
you think Ezekiel's wife was complaining about heaven once she got there?No.If we are to live for God, one has to accept that our
rewards are primarily in heaven and anything we get in this lifetime is a
"short-term" bonus.
e)I think God taking away
Ezekiel's wife had another purpose:It is one thing to preach about the destruction of
one's country.It's
another thing when it really hits "home".I think God wanted Ezekiel to understand
the pain that Israel would go through, so God took away the love of Ezekiel's
life, his wife.
28.Verse 19:Then the people asked me, "Won't you
tell us what these things have to do with us?"
a)In other words, the Jews
living in Babylon were asking Ezekiel, "Hey, why aren't you mourning for
your dead wife like it customary to do in our country.
29.Verse 20:So I said to them, "The word of the
LORD came to me: 21 Say to the house of Israel, `This is what the
Sovereign LORD says: I am about to desecrate my sanctuary--the stronghold in
which you take pride, the delight of your eyes, the object of your affection.
The sons and daughters you left behind will fall by the sword. 22 And you
will do as I have done. You will not cover the lower part of your face or eat
the customary food of mourners. 23 You will keep your turbans on your heads and your
sandals on your feet. You will not mourn or weep but will waste away because of
your sins and groan among yourselves. 24 Ezekiel will be a sign to you; you will do just as he
has done. When this happens, you will know that I am the Sovereign LORD.'
a)Here, Ezekiel uses the
occasion of his wife's death to preach.
b)Ezekiel started by
saying that God was going to destroy "The Temple" in Jerusalem.I believe one of the reasons people
didn't believe Ezekiel (or Jeremiah) is that as long as the Temple stood, the
Jews believed God would never abandon them.
c)Ezekiel went on to say
that just as he did not mourn for his wife, neither will the Jews living in
Babylon have the ability to mourn for the soon-to-be-dead they still know
living in Jerusalem.So
why won't the Israelites mourn their normal way?I suspect it is because they will believe Ezekiel is
right.
d)I believe Ezekiel was a
"sight" to the Jews living in Babylon.He was probably a source of local entertainment for
the past five years.Jews
would go to hear him preach or watch him do his visual demonstration.The problem is they didn't believe him or
change their ways and repent.The real "mourning" comes when the reality
finally hits the Jews living in Babylon of how Jerusalem is destroyed along
with most of the residents.
i)The Jews living in
Babylon did not accept Ezekiel as a sign to them.Once the Jews living in Babylon saw the Jewish
survivors of Jerusalem being brought back and hear of the destruction, at that
point they will act like Ezekiel is acting right now.Then they will mourn in sorrow for not believing
Ezekiel or changing their ways.
30.Verse
25:"And
you, son of man, on the day I take away their stronghold, their joy and glory,
the delight of their eyes, their heart's desire, and their sons and daughters
as well-- 26 on that day a fugitive will come to tell you the
news. 27 At that time your mouth will be opened; you will
speak with him and will no longer be silent. So you will be a sign to them, and
they will know that I am the LORD."
a)The
last thing Ezekiel is told to do is to be silent until a witness comes back
from Jerusalem to report that everything has happened just as Ezekiel said it
would.Remember that Babylon is several
hundred miles away.It would take a messenger many
days to travel from Jerusalem to Babylon.
b)God
ends this 24-chapter section by telling Ezekiel he will be a sign to the
Jewish refugees living in Babylon.Once this
messenger gives Ezekiel the news, he will speak again.
31.Let
me say a few words about the first half of Ezekiel versus the second half.
a)The
first half of Ezekiel is a message of "coming destruction".It is a message explaining how the Jewish people are collectively guilty
of turning from God and He has no choice but to banish them from the land.
b)The
key word of this lesson is "accountability".That is also the over-riding theme of the first half of the book.The Israelites were accountable to their relationship with God.When they turned from that relationship, there is a heavy price to be
paid.
c)To
those of you who have made it through the first half of Ezekiel, let me say the
"second half" is a message of hope.Now that Ezekiel is finished describing how the Jewish people are
accountable and have to pay for their sins, now it is time for a new set of
messages which are that of hope for a new future for the nation.
i)Given
the fact that Ezekiel preaches the second half of the book without the moral
support of his wife is another example of how God can use people!
d)The
next few chapters focus on the fate of the surrounding nations.The reason judgment on the surrounding nations is a message of hope is
God is going to explain to the Israelites the fate of those surrounding nations
that never turn to the "true" God despite all of the evidence of
God's existence.
e)In
many ways the judgment in Ezekiel is a model of the great judgment in
Revelation:
i)In
Revelation 20, there are 2 judgments.The first is
for believers and we get our eternal rewards based on our lives here on earth.Later is a second judgment for nonbelievers.Let me put the second judgment this way:God says, "Blessed and holy is he who has a part in the first
judgment.Over such, death has no
power".(A quote from Revelation 20:6,
NKJV).
32.Finally,
a few final words about Christians and accountability.
a)A
key point of this lesson is that Christians, like the Jews are accountable to
God.Yes we are saved by faith alone.If we have faith, our works should just "naturally" follow.Like the Israelites, God loves us too much to leave us alone.God will constantly work in the life of the believer to draw us closer to
Him.God forgives our sins, but God may also allow situations
in our life due to the consequences of our sins.
b)Does
the bible teach of forgiveness and grace?Of course.One has to have a good balance between God's grace and God's
accountability for our lives!
33.Let's
pray:Heavenly Father, Help us to remember we are accountable
to You.Help us to live our lives in a
way that is pleasing to You in all that we do.Guide us and help us to remember that You are always there in whatever
situation we are in.Help us, through good and bad
times to always be a good witness for You.We ask this
in Jesus name, Amen. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Blind faith is still blind reason
Article reads: “We’ve done this every year in different ways,” Swanson said. “It’s important to confront the belief that all pastors believe in creationism. If we don’t say that creationism is not science and is bad religion, people will conclude we accept it and that we believe science and religion are in conflict. In contrast, science and religion are asking two different questions.”
But a reality faced with two different and fundamental questions can not give itself over to the one answer that Darwin provided! The only way to merge spiritual trust and scientific reason is by way of Trinitarian philosophy. And faith is a bad substitute for trust!
Comments
Many simply acknowledge that the two institutions deal with different realms of human experience. Many religious organizations have issued statements declaring that there need not be any conflict between religious faith and the scientific perspective on evolution.1………Furthermore contrary to stereotype one certainly doesnt have to be an atheist in order to become a scientist. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
[Socioeconomic status and survival in multiple myeloma].
In order to investigate the relationship between socioeconomic status and survival in multiple myeloma, a group of 121 patients, followed from first diagnosis to their demise, was subdivided into three social classes: high, medium, and low. Social class subdivision was performed taking into account the degree of education, occupation, and income. Significant differences (p less than 0.05) exist regarding mean survivals, survival curves, clinical stages, and responses to therapy between the three considered classes. A low socioeconomic status is associated with shorter survival, higher frequence in poor clinical stage, and less percentage of positive responses to chemotherapy. In conclusion, the socioeconomic status is an important prognostic factor in patients with multiple myeloma, to be considered with other clinical and laboratory data. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
**Funding Information**
This work is based upon work supported by the Office of the Saskatchewan Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Research Chair, University of Saskatchewan, the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation (Award 4244) and the Saskatoon City Hospital Foundation, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
Introduction {#acn351103-sec-0005}
============
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) in which neurodegeneration plays a significant role in its pathogenesis. One of the key pathological features of MS is the development of demyelinated lesions or plaques in the CNS. Plaques, depending on their stage, can contain numerous immune cells, including T cells and macrophages. In addition to inflammation, lesions also show evidence of axonal injury.[^1^](#acn351103-bib-0001){ref-type="ref"} Multiple mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration in MS have been proposed, including axonal transport deficits, mitochondrial dysfunction, and autoantibodies to nonmyelin antigens. Recently, we have provided evidence from a single MS case that a novel mechanism may underlie neuronal damage in MS.[^2^](#acn351103-bib-0002){ref-type="ref"} We have shown neuronal mislocalization of the RNA‐binding protein (RBP) heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A1 (hnRNP A1) from its homeostatic nuclear location to the cytoplasm, where it forms aggregates. Additionally, we have found that these hnRNP A1 cytoplasmic accumulations colocalize with a marker of stress granules.
RBPs are essential in maintaining RNA homeostasis within a cell and play roles in mRNA stability, function, and transport. In addition to MS, dysfunctional RBPs, including hnRNP A1 and TAR‐DNA‐binding protein‐43 (TDP‐43), have been implicated in neurological disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer\'s disease, and frontotemporal dementia (FTLD).[^3^](#acn351103-bib-0003){ref-type="ref"}, [^4^](#acn351103-bib-0004){ref-type="ref"}, [^5^](#acn351103-bib-0005){ref-type="ref"}, [^6^](#acn351103-bib-0006){ref-type="ref"}, [^7^](#acn351103-bib-0007){ref-type="ref"}, [^8^](#acn351103-bib-0008){ref-type="ref"}, [^9^](#acn351103-bib-0009){ref-type="ref"} Common features of dysfunctional RBPs in these diseases include mislocalization of the RBP from its homeostatic nuclear location to the cytoplasm and the formation of protein aggregates in the cytoplasm of cells. We and others have shown that dysfunctional RBPs, including hnRNP A1 and TDP‐43, are prominent pathological features in relevant animal models of MS.[^10^](#acn351103-bib-0010){ref-type="ref"}, [^11^](#acn351103-bib-0011){ref-type="ref"} We demonstrated that TDP‐43 and hnRNP A1 mislocalization are prevalent in spinal cord neurons of animals with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Additional analyses revealed that hnRNP A1 mislocalization correlated with disease severity, CD3^+^ immune cell infiltrates, SMI‐32 staining, a marker of neurodegeneration, and neuronal cell death.[^10^](#acn351103-bib-0010){ref-type="ref"}
Given these data suggesting that dysfunctional RBP biology may contribute to neurodegeneration in a model of MS and our previous observations in human tissue, we sought to determine whether hnRNP A1 and TDP‐43 mislocalization are features of neurons in MS cortex. We have found an increased incidence of differential distribution of the RBPs hnRNP A1 and TDP‐43 in normal appearing cortical neurons from 12 MS cases as compared to controls. Specifically, we found that MS cases displayed a significantly higher proportion of neurons with nuclear depletion and cytoplasmic accumulation of hnRNP A1 and TDP‐43. Assessment of these phenotypic changes in hnRNP A1 and TDP‐43 distribution within neurons from MS cortices, as compared to controls, suggests that dysfunctional RBPs may be involved in MS pathogenesis in a manner similar to other neurological diseases.
Materials and Methods {#acn351103-sec-0006}
=====================
Cases and autopsy material {#acn351103-sec-0007}
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Study approval was granted by the University of Saskatchewan Biomedical Research Ethics Board (Bio\#11‐217 and Bio\#17‐207). Formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded autopsy material from 12 MS cases and six control cases with no known neurological deficits was used (Table [1](#acn351103-tbl-0001){ref-type="table"}). Clinical details were available for many, but not all, cases.
######
Patient demographic and clinical characteristics of non‐MS controls and neuropathologically confirmed MS cases.
Sample ID Age Sex Clinical subtype Symptom onset (year) Postmortem interval (h) Diagnosis (year)
----------- ----- ----- ------------------ ---------------------- ------------------------- ------------------
NL1 26 M Control N/A N/A N/A
NL2 41 M Control N/A 16 N/A
NL3 N/A N/A Control N/A N/A N/A
NL4 76 M Control N/A N/A N/A
NL5 74 F Control N/A N/A N/A
NL12 N/A N/A Control N/A N/A N/A
MS8 48 M MS N/A N/A N/A
MS9 54 M MS N/A N/A N/A
MS10 58 M SPMS 31 N/A 1
MS11 56 F PPMS 14 N/A 7
MS12 44 M RRMS 1 N/A 1
MS13 57 F MS N/A 3 25
MS14 44 M PPMS N/A 17 15
MS15 44 F MS N/A 9 N/A
MS16 65 F MS N/A 2 N/A
MS17 55 M SPMS N/A 3 N/A
MS22 N/A F SPMS N/A N/A N/A
MS23 49 F SPMS 27 7.5 21
Clinical data, including age, sex, clinical subtype, symptom onset and diagnosis, were included for each sample, if available. The postmortem interval was also noted, if available. NL, control; MS, multiple sclerosis; M, male; F, female; SPMS, secondary progressive MS; PPMS, primary progressive MS; RRMS, relapsing remitting MS; N/A, not available/applicable.
John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Immunohistochemistry {#acn351103-sec-0008}
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Tissue was sectioned at 5 µm and mounted onto slides before undergoing deparaffinization and rehydration through a xylene and ethanol gradient. Endogenous peroxidases were blocked using 0.2% hydrogen peroxide in methanol. Heat‐mediated antigen retrieval was performed by placing slides in 10 mmol/L Tris/Ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) buffer for 45 min in a steamer. Sections were blocked in 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS) in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) for 15 min before being incubated with primary antibodies diluted in the same solution overnight at 4°C. The following primary antibodies were used: rabbit anti‐TDP‐43 (Novus Biologicals, Centennial, CO) and mouse anti‐hnRNP A1 (Millipore, Burlington, MA). The next day, sections were washed and incubated with the appropriate biotinylated secondary antibody for 1 h at room temperature and then incubated in avidin peroxidase for 1 h at room temperature. Slides were developed using 3,3′‐diaminobenzidine and counterstained with hematoxylin.
Immunofluorescence {#acn351103-sec-0009}
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Tissue was sectioned, deparaffinized, and subjected to antigen retrieval as above. Following antigen retrieval, slides were washed in PBS before being placed into PBS + 0.3% Triton X‐100 for 20 min at room temperature for permeabilization. Slides were washed and treated with TrueBlack (Biotium, Fremont, CA) for 2 min as per the manufacturer\'s protocol. Sections were blocked for 1 h at room temperature in 10% FBS in PBS before being incubated with primary antibody diluted in 5% FBS in PBS overnight at 4°C. The same primary antibodies were used as above. Following overnight incubations, slides were washed and incubated with donkey anti‐mouse AlexaFluor 488 and donkey anti‐rabbit AlexaFluor 594 (both from Jackson Immunoresearch, West Grove, PA) secondary antibodies diluted in 5% FBS in PBS for 1 h at room temperature. Sections were washed and further incubated with rabbit anti‐NeuN conjugated AlexaFluor 647 (Abcam, Cambridge, UK) for 1 h at room temperature before being counterstained with 4′,6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole (DAPI) and mounted with ProLong Gold mounting medium.
Quantitative analysis {#acn351103-sec-0010}
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A block from each control and MS case was randomly selected for quantitative analyses. Images of normal appearing cortex were taken at 40× magnification using an Olympus BX53 microscope equipped with an Olympus DP72 camera (Olympus Canada Inc., Ontario, Canada). Approximately 20 images for normal appearing cortex were acquired per case. Images were imported into ImageJ and individual neurons were assessed for the phenotype of the RBP of interest. Examiners were not blinded when assessing the images. Seven phenotypes were defined in order to assess RBP distribution in each neuron (Table [2](#acn351103-tbl-0002){ref-type="table"}, Fig. [1](#acn351103-fig-0001){ref-type="fig"}), ranging from a physiological, normal appearing phenotype (Phenotype 1: robust nuclear RBP staining, no cytoplasmic staining) to a more severe mislocalization phenotype associated with pathological RBP distribution (Phenotype 7: nuclear depletion of RBP, cytoplasmic accumulation of RBP). Groups of at least 150 neurons were counted across the acquired images for each individual case and percentages were determined by dividing the number of positive neurons for a phenotype by the total number of neurons counted. This yielded a phenotype distribution plot for each individual case representing the variation in the RBP phenotypes present.
######
RNA‐binding protein phenotype scoring system for quantification.
Phenotype no. Description
--------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------
1 Robust, nuclear RBP staining, no cytoplasmic staining
2 Robust, nuclear RBP staining, faint cytoplasmic staining
3 Robust, nuclear RBP staining, robust cytoplasmic staining
4 Faint or sparse nuclear RBP staining, no cytoplasmic staining
5 Faint or sparse nuclear RBP staining, faint cytoplasmic staining
6 Faint or sparse nuclear RBP staining, robust cytoplasmic staining
7 Nuclear depletion of RBP, cytoplasmic staining
RBP, RNA‐binding protein.
John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
{#acn351103-fig-0001}
Statistical analysis {#acn351103-sec-0011}
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Statistical analyses were performed using GraphPad Prism 5 software. For comparisons between individual phenotypes in control and MS normal appearing cortex, one‐tailed unpaired tests were used to determine differences. *P* \< 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results {#acn351103-sec-0012}
=======
Normal appearing cortex from MS patients exhibited differential distribution of TDP‐43 phenotypes as compared to controls {#acn351103-sec-0013}
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Previous reports of TDP‐43 mislocalization in neurons from other neurologic diseases, demonstrated severe phenotypes where TDP‐43 shifts from being mainly nuclear to almost exclusively cytoplasmic under disease conditions.[^12^](#acn351103-bib-0012){ref-type="ref"}, [^13^](#acn351103-bib-0013){ref-type="ref"} Interestingly, in vitro experiments have described a gradient of TDP‐43 mislocalization in which TDP‐43 transitions from being exclusively nuclear to being nuclear with faint cytoplasmic staining to faintly nuclear and robustly cytoplasmic.[^8^](#acn351103-bib-0008){ref-type="ref"}, [^14^](#acn351103-bib-0014){ref-type="ref"}, [^15^](#acn351103-bib-0015){ref-type="ref"} In order to account for the varying degrees of mislocalization, we described seven neuronal RBP phenotypes to stage TDP‐43 localization in this study (Table [2](#acn351103-tbl-0002){ref-type="table"}, Fig. [1](#acn351103-fig-0001){ref-type="fig"}). Neurons from control cases (*n* = 6) predominantly exhibited phenotypes 1 and 2, accounting for approximately 80--90% of quantified neurons, characterized by robust TDP‐43 staining of the nucleus (Fig. [2B](#acn351103-fig-0002){ref-type="fig"}). Varying numbers of neurons, depending on the control case, exhibited phenotype 4, with TDP‐43 faintly staining the nucleus. In controls, no neurons were found to be phenotypes 6 or 7, where TDP‐43 exhibits a pattern of nuclear depletion and cytoplasmic mislocalization. Conversely, in normal appearing cortex of MS patients, the percentage of neurons exhibiting phenotypes 1 and 2 decreased to varying degrees across all cases but no cases exhibited more than 60% of these nuclear TDP‐43 phenotypes (Fig. [2B](#acn351103-fig-0002){ref-type="fig"}). The appearance of phenotypes 6 and 7 in normal appearing cortex neurons, in which TDP‐43 was minimal in the nucleus and accumulates within the cytoplasm, was robust in the majority of the examined MS cases. This suggests a marked shift in neuronal TDP‐43 phenotype from mostly nuclear TDP‐43 localization in controls to an increased cytoplasmic accumulation in MS cases (Fig. [2A](#acn351103-fig-0002){ref-type="fig"}). Individual TDP‐43 phenotypes were compared between control and MS cases. A significant reduction in the number of neurons exhibiting phenotypes 1, 2, and 3 was found in MS cases as compared to controls (Fig. [2C](#acn351103-fig-0002){ref-type="fig"}, *P* \< 0.0001, *P* \< 0.01, *P* \< 0.05, respectively). There was a significant increase in the number of neurons positive for phenotypes 5, 6, and 7 in MS cases as compared to controls (Fig. [2C](#acn351103-fig-0002){ref-type="fig"}, *P* \< 0.001 for all).
{ref-type="table"} and Figure [1](#acn351103-fig-0001){ref-type="fig"}. Scale bar 20μm. (B) Quantification and distribution of the seven different RBP phenotypes when examining TDP‐43 staining in neurons from cortex for each control case (*n* = 6) and MS case (*n* = 12). For analyses, images were taken from normal appearing cortex. (C) Graphical illustration of the differences between control and MS cases for each individual TDP‐43 phenotype. Data are graphed as the percentage of neurons positive for that phenotype where the denominator is the number of neurons counted in that case (150--340 neurons per case). Each circle (controls, *n* = 6) or square (MS, *n* = 12) represents a value from an individual case. Unpaired t‐test for statistical analysis. \**P* \< 0.05, \*\**P* \< 0.01, \*\*\**P* \< 0.001, \*\*\*\**P* \< 0.0001. Error bars represent standard error of mean. TDP‐43, TAR‐DNA‐binding protein‐43; RBP, RNA‐binding protein; NL, control, MS, multiple sclerosis; n.s., not significant.](ACN3-7-1214-g002){#acn351103-fig-0002}
Differential distribution of hnRNP A1 phenotypes in normal appearing cortex from MS patients {#acn351103-sec-0014}
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We previously published a single case of MS exhibiting hnRNP A1 nuclear depletion of cortical neurons.[^2^](#acn351103-bib-0002){ref-type="ref"} As with TDP‐43 distribution, hnRNP A1 may vary in its cellular distribution based on cell type and condition.[^16^](#acn351103-bib-0016){ref-type="ref"} In order to account for the gradient of hnRNP A1 distribution patterns, we used the same seven neuronal RBP phenotypes as described above to phenotypically assess hnRNP A1 localization in our study (Table [2](#acn351103-tbl-0002){ref-type="table"}, Fig. [1](#acn351103-fig-0001){ref-type="fig"}). Neurons from control cases predominantly showed phenotypes 1 and 2 of nuclear hnRNP A1 localization, accounting for approximately 50--80% of the neurons that were quantified (Fig. [3](#acn351103-fig-0003){ref-type="fig"}). However, two of the control cases displayed an increased prevalence of phenotype 3 with robust hnRNP A1 staining of both the nucleus and cytoplasm. Three control cases contained neurons which displayed less than 5% of phenotypes 4 or 5. Furthermore, no control cases were found to contain neurons exhibiting phenotypes 6 or 7 (Fig. [3](#acn351103-fig-0003){ref-type="fig"}). In the normal appearing cortex of MS patients, the presence of neurons positive for phenotypes 1 and 2 decreased (Fig. [3B](#acn351103-fig-0003){ref-type="fig"}) suggesting a reduction in nuclear hnRNP A1 localization. Furthermore, all of the MS cases examined contained hnRNP A1 phenotypes 6 and 7 in normal appearing cortex neurons, suggesting a marked shift from nuclear to cytoplasmic hnRNP A1 distribution as compared to control cases (Fig. [3C](#acn351103-fig-0003){ref-type="fig"}). Several cases robustly replicated our seminal findings of neuronal hnRNP A1 nuclear depletion (Fig. [3B](#acn351103-fig-0003){ref-type="fig"}). We further performed individual comparisons of each hnRNP A1 phenotype to determine differences between control and MS cases. MS cases displayed a significant reduction in phenotype 1 as compared to control cases (Fig. [3C](#acn351103-fig-0003){ref-type="fig"}, *P* \< 0.05). Phenotypes 2, 3, and 4 were found to not be statistically different between control and MS cases. However, MS cases contained significantly more normal appearing cortex neurons exhibiting phenotypes 5, 6, and 7 as compared to controls (Fig. [3C](#acn351103-fig-0003){ref-type="fig"}, *P* \< 0.01 for all). These data closely parallel the phenotypic distribution changes we also observed during the TDP‐43 phenotype analyses.
{ref-type="table"} and Figure [1](#acn351103-fig-0001){ref-type="fig"}. Scale bar 20μm. (B) Quantification and distribution of the seven different RBP phenotypes when examining hnRNP A1 staining neurons from cortex from each control case (*n* = 6) and MS case (*n* = 12). For analyses, images were taken from normal appearing cortex. (C) Graphical illustration of the differences between control and MS cases for each individual hnRNP A1 phenotype. Data are graphed as the percentage of neurons positive for that phenotype where the denominator is the number of neurons counted in that case (165--280 neurons per case). Each circle (controls, *n* = 6) or square (MS, *n* = 12) represents a value from an individual case. Unpaired t‐test for statistical analysis. \**P* \< 0.05, \*\**P* \< 0.01. Error bars represent standard error of mean. *NL* control, *MS* multiple sclerosis, n.s. not significant. MS, multiple sclerosis; hnRNP A1, heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A1.](ACN3-7-1214-g003){#acn351103-fig-0003}
Mislocalization of hnRNP A1 and TDP‐43 within the same neurons in MS normal appearing cortex {#acn351103-sec-0015}
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Considering that we observed similarities in the phenotypic distribution changes between TDP‐43 and hnRNP A1 in MS cases, we performed immunofluorescence for both RBPs in a control and MS case to determine if there was colocalization of TDP‐43 and hnRNP A1 in neurons. Neurons from control normal appearing cortex demonstrated predominantly nuclear colocalization of TDP‐43 and hnRNP A1, illustrative of phenotype 1 (Fig. [4](#acn351103-fig-0004){ref-type="fig"}). In contrast with controls, MS normal appearing cortex showed decreased nuclear staining of hnRNP A1 and TDP‐43 and increased, robust cytoplasmic mislocalization within the same neuron (Fig. [4](#acn351103-fig-0004){ref-type="fig"}), some of which colocalized. Both hnRNP A1 and TDP‐43 demonstrated phenotype 6 RBP distribution within this neuron suggestive of a relationship between the two RBPs.
{#acn351103-fig-0004}
Discussion {#acn351103-sec-0016}
==========
We previously published data from a single MS case compared to a non‐MS control demonstrating nuclear depletion of hnRNP A1, an RBP important in mRNA splicing and transport.[^2^](#acn351103-bib-0002){ref-type="ref"} We have expanded these findings from a single case to multiple MS cases and included an additional RBP, TDP‐43. The heterogeneity of TDP‐43 phenotypes in FTLD is well studied.[^4^](#acn351103-bib-0004){ref-type="ref"}, [^5^](#acn351103-bib-0005){ref-type="ref"}, [^17^](#acn351103-bib-0017){ref-type="ref"} Abnormal TDP‐43 structures are typically classified into neuronal cytoplasmic inclusions, neuronal preinclusions, neuronal intranuclear inclusions, and dystrophic neurites and the distribution of and presence of these TDP‐43 features has been used to subtype FTLD and AD cases.[^18^](#acn351103-bib-0018){ref-type="ref"}, [^19^](#acn351103-bib-0019){ref-type="ref"}, [^20^](#acn351103-bib-0020){ref-type="ref"} Consistent brain regions are affected by FTLD and AD and can be more readily assessed for TDP‐43 pathology. MS is a heterogeneous disease that affects different parts of the CNS in different cases and to varying severities. In order to account for the amount of heterogeneity observed in MS and the varying degrees of RBP mislocalization reported in the literature,[^8^](#acn351103-bib-0008){ref-type="ref"}, [^14^](#acn351103-bib-0014){ref-type="ref"} we used a method of quantifying and phenotypically classifying RBP localization in tissue. These phenotypes ranged from homeostatic RBP nuclear localization to mild mislocalization and to severe RBP nuclear depletion with cytoplasmic accumulation, which are features of pathologic neurons in other neurologic diseases.
Using this phenotypic classification system, we analyzed 12 MS cases and six control cases compromising of more than 2700 cortical neurons for hnRNP A1 and TDP‐43 localization. We found that both of these RBPs exhibited differential phenotypic distribution in neurons in the normal appearing cortex of MS patients as compared to controls. Specifically, MS patients showed a reduction in the number of neurons with nuclear hnRNP A1 and TDP‐43 and a significant increase in the number of neurons with decreased nuclear localization and cytoplasmic mislocalization. Cortical neuron phenotypes 6 and 7 have the greatest degree of cytoplasmic staining (representative of nucleocytoplasmic mislocalization), which has been strongly associated with neurodegeneration and neuronal injury in other neurological diseases and their models.[^10^](#acn351103-bib-0010){ref-type="ref"}, [^14^](#acn351103-bib-0014){ref-type="ref"}, [^21^](#acn351103-bib-0021){ref-type="ref"}, [^22^](#acn351103-bib-0022){ref-type="ref"}, [^23^](#acn351103-bib-0023){ref-type="ref"}, [^24^](#acn351103-bib-0024){ref-type="ref"} Remarkably, we could not find any of phenotypes 6 or 7 in cortical neurons of normal control brain, while there were at least some of these neuronal phenotypes in every MS case studied.
Nuclear localization of RBPs is believed to be physiologic while varying degrees of mislocalization have been shown to be detrimental to cellular processes and cell health and associated with neurologic disease pathology. In ALS, there is a correlation with the degree of mislocalization and disease severity in that increased amounts of cytoplasmic RBPs are associated with more severe forms of disease.[^25^](#acn351103-bib-0025){ref-type="ref"}, [^26^](#acn351103-bib-0026){ref-type="ref"} Several hypotheses have been proposed to explain the pathological and damaging effects of RBP mislocalization. The first hypothesis is a gain of toxicity in the cytoplasm postulating that increased cytoplasmic concentrations of an RBP alters its liquid‐liquid phase separation dynamics leading to the formation of insoluble protein aggregates.[^27^](#acn351103-bib-0027){ref-type="ref"}, [^28^](#acn351103-bib-0028){ref-type="ref"} Decreased RNA availability in the cytoplasm can cause RBPs to become more aggregate prone[^27^](#acn351103-bib-0027){ref-type="ref"} while increasing concentrations of proteins that have the potential to aggregate increases the probability of liquid to solid aggregate transitions.[^28^](#acn351103-bib-0028){ref-type="ref"} Furthermore, in ALS mouse models, TDP‐43 has been shown to mislocalize to the cytoplasm and abnormally bind and splice cytosolic RNA targets.[^26^](#acn351103-bib-0026){ref-type="ref"}, [^29^](#acn351103-bib-0029){ref-type="ref"} The presence of insoluble aggregates in a cell might create problems with the protein clearance machinery negatively impacting cellular health. Interestingly, our results demonstrate colocalization of hnRNP A1 and TDP‐43 to the cytoplasm of neurons in MS patients but not controls, suggesting that the formation of RBP aggregates although further experiments are needed to confirm this.
Other researchers suggest that dysfunctional RBPs lead to neurodegeneration through loss of function of the RBP in the nucleus. Nuclear perturbations of a target RBP suggest it is no longer performing its necessary functions within the nucleus. For example, nuclear depletion of TDP‐43 leads to lack of proper RNA processing, including disrupted splicing regulation, transcription, control, and micro‐RNA processing[^30^](#acn351103-bib-0030){ref-type="ref"} and has been shown to be sufficient to induce neuronal cell death.[^23^](#acn351103-bib-0023){ref-type="ref"} Findings from others often demonstrate nuclear depletion or loss of nuclear RBPs in conjunction with cytoplasmic accumulation of the RBP in neurons suggesting that it is most likely a combination of RBP gain of toxicity in the cytoplasm and loss of function in the nucleus that contributes to neuronal dysfunction and death.[^26^](#acn351103-bib-0026){ref-type="ref"} Our data suggest that a similar mechanism may be involved in MS pathogenesis whereby hnRNP A1 and TDP‐43 nuclear depletion and cytoplasmic accumulation lead to neuronal injury through gain of toxicity in the cytoplasm and loss of nuclear function. Further experiments are needed to elucidate the precise mechanism by which hnRNP A1 and TDP‐43 dysfunction influence neuronal health in MS.
A number of factors, including oxidative stress, proinflammatory cytokines, and inflammation, have been shown to influence RBPs in neurons.[^2^](#acn351103-bib-0002){ref-type="ref"}, [^31^](#acn351103-bib-0031){ref-type="ref"}, [^32^](#acn351103-bib-0032){ref-type="ref"}, [^33^](#acn351103-bib-0033){ref-type="ref"} Furthermore, mutations within RBPs, including hnRNP A1 and TDP‐43, have been shown to be causative of ALS and FTLD. We have previously shown that proinflammatory cytokines, antibodies to hnRNP A1, and MS‐associated mutations within hnRNP A1 lead to its mislocalization from nucleus to cytoplasm in in vitro models.[^2^](#acn351103-bib-0002){ref-type="ref"}, [^34^](#acn351103-bib-0034){ref-type="ref"}, [^35^](#acn351103-bib-0035){ref-type="ref"} We and others have also demonstrated that hnRNP A1 and TDP‐43 neuronal mislocalization is a prominent feature in mouse models of MS.[^11^](#acn351103-bib-0011){ref-type="ref"}, [^36^](#acn351103-bib-0036){ref-type="ref"} Particularly, we found that the degree of hnRNP A1 mislocalization positively correlated with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis disease severity and negatively correlated with neuronal cell count.[^36^](#acn351103-bib-0036){ref-type="ref"} This suggests that the severity of RBP mislocalization may be related to neurodegeneration and disease progression. Although it is unclear what is influencing RBP distribution in MS and related rodent models, it is clear that dysfunctional RBP biology is a prominent feature and could be influencing disease progression and pathology in a manner similar to other neurologic diseases.
This study was limited to RBP distribution in cortical neurons. However, research from others indicates that RBP localization may also be important in oligodendrocytes.[^11^](#acn351103-bib-0011){ref-type="ref"}, [^37^](#acn351103-bib-0037){ref-type="ref"} For example, selective depletion of TDP‐43 in oligodendrocytes in mice leads to increased mortality, decreased myelination, and neurological deficit development.[^37^](#acn351103-bib-0037){ref-type="ref"} These experiments are further supported by data demonstrating RBP mislocalization, specifically TDP‐43, in oligodendrocytes in the Theiler\'s murine encephalomyelitis virus model of MS.[^11^](#acn351103-bib-0011){ref-type="ref"} The role of RBP dysfunction in other glial cells, such as microglia and astrocytes, which are particularly relevant to MS pathology, is relatively unclear although research suggests that inflammation can induce RBP mislocalization in these cell types as well.[^31^](#acn351103-bib-0031){ref-type="ref"} Furthermore, recent proteomic analyses determined that TDP‐43 was differentially regulated in T cells from MS patients as compared to healthy controls further suggesting a role for dysregulated TDP‐43 and other RBPs in MS pathology.[^38^](#acn351103-bib-0038){ref-type="ref"}
Overall, we believe that this robust analysis of TDP‐43 and hnRNP A1 localization in cortical neurons in MS patients demonstrates a role for dysfunctional RBP biology in disease and suggests a novel mechanism underlying neurodegeneration in MS.
Author Contributions {#acn351103-sec-0018}
====================
HES contributed experimental data and analyses and wrote and edited the manuscript. CH contributed the experimental data. BFP contributed human pathology expertise. MCL contributed to the experimental design and interpretation, reviewed, edited, and approved the final version of the manuscript, including figures. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.
Conflicts of interest {#acn351103-sec-0019}
=====================
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
The authors would like to thank Anita Givens, University of Saskatchewan for her guidance and expert technical assistance, and the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Saskatoon Health Region, Saskatoon, Canada for retrieval of some of the tissue blocks used in this study. Some human tissue used in this study was obtained from the NICHD Brain and Tissue Bank for Developmental Disorders under contracts N01‐HD‐4‐3368 and N01‐HD‐4‐3383.
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[Familial study of Hb A2 Babinga (delta 136 Glyc----Asp) in South America].
In November 1983, HB A2 Babinga was found in a Columbian male in Paris. Blood samples from Columbia showed that his mother and one of his brothers were also Hb A2 Babinga carriers and that his mother and another brother and his sister were Hb S carriers. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Detection of mutagenic activity in particulate air pollutants.
Ames's strains of Salmonella typhimurium were used to evaluate the mutagenic activity of airbone particulate materials collected at six different points in the industrial area of Ohmuta and the residential area Fukuoka. Tests were done in presence of rat-liver S-9 fraction isolated from rats that had been treated with Aroclor 1254. When the number of revertant colonies per plate was plotted against the amount of methanol extract of particulate air pollutants, using strain TA98, approximately linear relationships were observed for active samples. Generally, mutagenic activity of the samples increased in proportion to the density of air pollutants. In our system, 38--349 microng of methanol extract, from 0.225--4.51 m3 of air from the factory districts in Ohmuta City gave 100 his+ revertants per plate. On the other hand, 54--2300 microng of air pollutants, from 1.29--14.1 m3 of air from the residential districts in Fukuoka City, gave a comparable activity. Every sample from each area had mutagenic activity. Chemicals in air pollutants were fractionated by alumina column chromatography and identified by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. More than 28 compounds, including 12 unknown substances were identified as polycyclic hydrocarbons. Twelve of these compounds are already known to be carcinogens and to induce reversions to histidine independence in strain TA98 of Salmonella. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
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Infamous: Festival of Blood, Rochard, and Cubixx HD dated for PSN
Three very different PlayStation Network exclusives have been dated today. First up is Infamous 2: Festival of Blood. This standalone expansion to...
Three very different PlayStation Network exclusives have been dated today. First up is Infamous 2: Festival of Blood. This standalone expansion to Infamous 2 won't require the original disc, and will have Cole bitten a vampire. He'll have 24 hours before he succumbs to the curse, and stop the vampiric curse from spreading. New to Festival of Blood is support for the PlayStation Move controller, a feature not found in the original two games.
Festival of Blood will be available as a standalone PlayStation Network game on October 25th.
BOOM video 10450
In addition, Recoil Games' indie platformer Rochard will be available on September 27th for $9.99. The puzzle-platformer has players manipulating gravity to stop an assault by space pirates, whilst rescuing other astro miners.
BOOM video 10140
Finally, Cubixx HD will be available on the PlayStation Store next week, on September 20th for $9.99 ($6.99 for PlayStation Plus subscribers). Inspired by Qix and other area-capture games, this PSN puzzler is one of the few games to offer support for 7-player local multiplayer. Best bust out the DualShock controllers, eh? | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
This invention relates to the field of molecular biology and microbiology. More specifically, this invention describes a new, genetically engineered biocatalyst possessing enhanced tyrosine ammonia-lyase activity.
Phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) (EC 4.3.1.5) is widely distributed in plants (Koukol et al., J. Biol. Chem. 236:2692-2698 (1961)), fungi (Bandoni et al., Phytochemistry 7:205-207 (1968)), yeast (Ogata et al., Agric. Biol. Chem. 31:200-206 (1967)), and Streptomyces (Emes et al., Can. J. Biochem. 48:613-622 (1970)), but it has not been found in Escherichia coli or mammalian cells (Hanson and Havir In The Enzymes, 3rd ed.; Boyer, P., Ed.; Academic: New York, 1967; pp 75-167). PAL is the first enzyme of phenylpropanoid metabolism and catalyzes the removal of the (pro-3S)-hydrogen and xe2x80x94NH3+ from L-phenylalanine to form trans-cinnamic acid. In the presence of a P450 enzyme system, trans-cinnamic acid can be converted to para-hydroxycinnamic acid (PHCA) which serves as the common intermediate in plants for production of various secondary metabolites such as lignin and isoflavonoids. In microbes however, cinnamic acid and not the PHCA acts as the precursor for secondary metabolite formation. No cinnamate hydroxylase enzyme has so far been characterized from microbial sources. The PAL enzyme in plants is thought to be a regulatory enzyme in the biosynthesis of lignin, isoflavonoids and other phenylpropanoids (Hahlbrock et al., Annu. Rev. Plant Phys. Plant Mol. Biol. 40:347-369 (1989)). However, in the red yeast, Rhodotorula glutinis (Rhodosporidium toruloides), this lyase degrades phenylalanine as a catabolic function and the cinnamate formed by the action of this enzyme is converted to benzoate and other cellular materials.
The gene sequence of PAL from various sources, including Rhodosporidium toruloides, has been determined and published (Edwards et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., USA 82:6731-6735 (1985); Cramer et al., Plant Mol. Biol. 12:367-383 (1989); Lois et al., EMBO J. 8:1641-1648 (1989); Minami et al., Eur. J. Biochem. 185:19-25 (1989); Anson et al., Gene 58:189-199 (1987); Rasmussen and Oerum, DNA Sequence, 1:207-211 (1991). The PAL genes from various sources have been over-expressed as active PAL enzyme in yeast, Escherichia coli and insect cell culture (Faulkner et al., Gene 143:13-20 (1994); Langer et al., Biochemistry 36:10867-10871 (1997); McKegney et al., Phytochemistry 41:1259-1263 (1996)). PAL has received attention because of its potential usefulness in correcting the inborn error of metabolism phenylketonuria (Bourget et al., FEBS Lett. 180:5-8 (1985); U.S. Pat. No. 5,753,487), in altering tumor metabolism (Fritz et al. J. Biol. Chem. 251:4646-4650 (1976)), in quantitative analysis of serum phenylalanine (Koyama et al., Clin. Chim. Acta, 136:131-136 (1984)) and as a route for synthesizing L-phenylalanine from cinnamic acid (Yamada et al., Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 42:773 (1981), Hamilton et al., Trends in Biotechnol. 3:64-68 (1985) and Evans et al., Microbial Biotechnology 25:399-405 (1987)).
In plants, the PAL enzyme converts phenylalanine to trans-cinnamic acid which in turn is hydroxylated at the para position by cinnamate-4-hydroxylase to make PHCA (Pierrel et al., Eur. J. Biochem. 224:835 (1994); Urban et al., Eur. J Biochem. 222:843 (1994); Cabello-Hurtado et al., J. Biol. Chem. 273:7260 (1998); and Teutsch et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 90:4102 (1993)). However, since further metabolism of cinnamic acid in microbial systems does not usually involve its para hydroxylation to PHCA, information regarding this reaction in microorganisms is scarce.
Information available indicates that PAL from some plants and micro-organisms, in addition to its ability to convert phenylalanine to cinnamate, can accept tyrosine as substrate. In such reactions the enzyme activity is designated tyrosine ammonia lyase (TAL). Conversion of tyrosine by TAL results in the direct formation of PHCA from tyrosine without the intermediacy of cinnamate. However, all natural PAL/TAL enzymes prefer to use phenylalanine rather than tyrosine as their substrate. The level of TAL activity is always lower than PAL activity, but the magnitude of this difference varies over a wide range. For example, the parsley enzyme has a KM for phenylalanine of 15-25 xcexcM and for tyrosine 2.0-8.0 mM with turnover numbers 22/sec and 0.3/sec respectively (Appert et al., Eur. J. Biochem. 225:491 (1994)). In contrast, the maize enzyme has a KM for phenylalanine only fifteen times higher than for tyrosine, and turnover numbers about ten-fold higher (Havir et al., Plant Physiol. 48:130 (1971)). The exception to this rule, is the yeast, Rhodosporidium, in which a ratio of TAL catalytic activity to PAL catalytic activity is approximately 0.58 (Hanson and Havir In The Biochemistry of Plants; Academic: New York, 1981; Vol. 7, pp 577-625).
The above mentioned biological systems provide a number of enzymes that may be useful in the production of PHCA, however, the efficient production of this monomer has not been achieved. The problem to be overcome therefore is the design and implementation of a method for the efficient production of PHCA from a biological source using an inexpensive substrate or fermentable carbon source. Applicants have solved the stated problem by engineering both microbial and plant hosts to produce PHCA, either by the overexpression of foreign genes encoding PAL and p450/p-450 reductase system or by the expression of genes encoding mutant and wildtype TAL activity.
The object of the present invention is bioproduction of PHCA, a compound that has potential as a monomer for production of Liquid Crystal Polymers (LCP). There are two potential bio-routes for production of PHCA from glucose and other fermentable carbon substrates:
1) Conversion of phenylalanine to cinnamic acid to PHCA. This route requires the enzyme PAL as well as a cytochrome P-450 and a cytochrome P-450 reductase (Scheme 1).
2) Conversion of tyrosine to PHCA in one step without the intermediacy of cinnamate (Scheme 1). This route requires the enzyme TAL which is likely to be very similar to PAL but with a higher substrate specificity for tyrosine. This route does not require the cytochrome P-450 and the cytochrome P-450 reductase. Operation of the TAL route therefore requires generation of a biocatalyst with increased TAL activity to function through the TAL route.
The present invention describes methods for bioproduction of PHCA through conversion of: 1) cinnamate to PHCA; 2) glucose to phenylalanine to PHCA via the PAL route and 3) through generation of a new biocatalyst possessing enhanced tyrosine ammonia-lyase (TAL) activity. The evolution of TAL requires isolation of a yeast PAL gene, mutagenesis and evolution of the PAL coding sequence, and selection of variants with improved TAL activity. The instant invention further demonstrates the bioproduction of PHCA from glucose through the above mentioned routes in various fungi and bacteria.
It is an object of the present invention therefore to provide a method for the production of PHCA comprising: (i) contacting a recombinant host cell with a fermentable carbon substrate, said recombinant cell lacking a P-450/P-450 reductase system and comprising a gene encoding a tyrosine ammonia lyase activity operably linked to suitable regulatory sequences (ii) growing said recombinant cell for a time sufficient to produce PHCA; and (iii) optionally recovering said PHCA. Within the context of the invention a fermentable carbon substrate may be selected from the group consisting of monosaccharides, oligosaccharides, polysaccharides, carbon dioxide, methanol, formaldehyde, formate, and carbon-containing amines and the host cell from the group consisting of bacteria, yeasts, filamentous fungi, algae and plant cells.
Similarly provided are recombinant host cells lacking a cytochrome P-450/P-450 reductase system and comprising a gene encoding a tyrosine ammonia lyase activity operably linked to suitable regulatory sequences.
Additionally provided is a method for the production of PHCA comprising: (i) contacting a recombinant yeast cell with a fermentable carbon substrate, said recombinant cell comprising: a) a gene encoding a plant P-450/P-450 reductase system; and b) a gene encoding a yeast PAL activity operably linked to suitable regulatory sequences; (ii) growing said recombinant cell for a time sufficient to produce PHCA; and (iii) optionally recovering said PHCA.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a method for identifying a gene encoding a TAL activity comprising: (i) contacting a recombinant microorganism comprising a foreign gene suspected of encoding a TAL activity with PHCA for a time sufficient to metabolize PHCA; and (ii) monitoring the growth the recombinant microorganism whereby growth of the organism indicates the presence of a gene encoding a TAL activity.
Similarly a method for identifying a gene encoding a TAL activity is provided comprising: (i) transforming a host cell capable of using PHCA as a sole carbon source with a gene suspected of encoding a TAL activity to create a transformant; (ii) comparing the rate of growth of the transformant with an untransformed host cell capable of using PHCA as a sole carbon source wherein an accelerated rate of growth by the transformant indicates the presence of a gene encoding a TAL activity.
Additionally the present invention provides an isolated nucleic acid fragment selected from the group consisting of: a) an isolated nucleic acid fragment encoding a truncated mutant tyrosine ammonia lyase polypeptide, the polypeptide having the amino acid sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO:32; b) an isolated nucleic acid fragment have the nucleotide sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO:31; and c) an isolated nucleic acid fragment completely complementary to either (a) or (b), and polypeptides encoded by the same.
Similary the invention provides an isolated nucleic acid fragment selected from the group consisting of: a) an isolated nucleic acid fragment encoding a mutant tyrosine ammonia lyase polypeptide, the polypeptide having an amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO:10, SEQ ID NO:33, SEQ ID NO:34, SEQ ID NO:35, SEQ DI NO:36, SEQ ID NO:37 and SEQ ID NO:38; and b) an isolated nucleic acid fragment completely complementary to either (a), and polypeptides encoded by the same. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Truly Agreed, 2016
301.3106. 1. Any individual who is a former legislator
of the Missouri general assembly may receive special license
plates as prescribed by this section, for any motor vehicle such
person owns, either solely or jointly, other than an apportioned
motor vehicle or a commercial motor vehicle licensed in excess
of [eighteen]twenty-four thousand pounds
gross weight. Any individual who is a former legislator of the
Missouri general assembly may annually apply for such license
plates. 2. Upon presentation
of the appropriate proof of eligibility as determined by the
director and annual payment of a fifteen dollar fee in addition
to the registration fee, and other documents which may be required
by law, the department of revenue shall issue to the vehicle
owner a personalized license plate which shall bear an appropriate
emblem to be determined by the director, with the words "FORMER
MISSOURI LEGISLATOR" in place of the words "SHOW-ME STATE".
Such license plates shall be made with fully reflective material
with a common color scheme and design, shall be clearly visible
at night, and shall be aesthetically attractive, as prescribed
by section 301.130. Notwithstanding the provisions of section
301.144, no additional fee shall be charged for the personalization
of license plates pursuant to this section. 3.
No more than two sets of license plates shall be issued pursuant
to this section to a qualified applicant. License plates issued
pursuant to this section shall not be transferable to any other
person except that any registered co-owner of the motor vehicle
shall be entitled to operate the motor vehicle with such plates
for the duration of the year licensed in the event of the death
of the qualified person. The director of revenue shall make
necessary rules and regulations for the administration of this
section, and shall design all necessary forms required by this
section.Any rule or portion of a rule, as that term is defined
in section 536.010, that is created under the authority delegated
in this section shall become effective only if it complies with
and is subject to all of the provisions of chapter 536 and,
if applicable, section 536.028. This section and chapter 536
are nonseverable and if any of the powers vested with the general
assembly pursuant to chapter 536 to review, to delay the effective
date, or to disapprove and annul a rule are subsequently held
unconstitutional, then the grant of rulemaking authority and
any rule proposed or adopted after August 28, 2004, shall be
invalid and void. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Q:
Image cropping issue in C#
In my asp.net C# application, I am trying to crop the below image:
I have selected only the face part, but the cropped image always selecting from top left corner like below:
I am using the below code to crop image:
Rectangle sourceRect = new Rectangle(iX1, iY1, w, h);
System.Drawing.Image imgNew = CropImage(imgOrig, sourceRect);
private static System.Drawing.Image CropImage(System.Drawing.Image img, Rectangle cropArea)
{
Bitmap bmpImage = new Bitmap(img);
Bitmap bmpCrop = bmpImage.Clone(cropArea, bmpImage.PixelFormat);
img.Dispose();
return (System.Drawing.Image)bmpCrop;
}
A:
Use this code to crop your image.
static Bitmap CropImage(Image originalImage, Rectangle sourceRectangle, Rectangle destinationRectangle)
{
var croppedImage = new Bitmap(destinationRectangle.Width, destinationRectangle.Height);
using (var graphics = Graphics.FromImage(croppedImage))
{
graphics.DrawImage(originalImage, destinationRectangle, sourceRectangle, GraphicsUnit.Pixel);
}
return croppedImage;
}
The problem is that your original algorithm doesn't specify where to start cropping from. It therefore always starts from the origin, which is not what you want.
| null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Preserved color imagery in an achromatopsic.
The loss of color vision secondary to central nervous system disease (achromatopsia) is thought to preclude visual imagery of colors. We report a patient with achromatopsia, secondary to bilateral temporo-occipital infarcts inclusive of the lingual and fusiform gyri, with preserved color imagery. Our findings, in conjunction with previous cases in the literature, are consistent with a single neural network for color processing in which a disconnection of internal activation from stored color representations produces impaired color imagery with preserved color perception, whereas a disconnection of visual input to these representations produces achromatopsia with preserved color imagery. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
First up, Dee Hock has made more money than God, so I feel like it might be a
good idea to trust him when it comes to how we comport ourselves in the business
place. Although maybe not. Wikipedia hillariously states: “Through a series of
unlikely accidents, Hock helped invent and became chief executive of the credit
system that became VISA International.” I leave unlikely accidents as an
exercise to the reader.
At any rate, I like this quote a lot. This post is a pretty rambling one about
why I like it so much. I believe that it touches on some deep ways that we work,
and can help us reject cynicism and laziness that finds its way into
organizations.
But First: Thought-Terminating Clichés
There’s a good book on propaganda by a Psychiatrist named Robert Lifton:
Thought Reform, and the Psychology of
Totalism. The book is pretty good in
general, but Lifton invokes an interesting concept that I’d like to talk about:
Thought-terminating Clichés.
From the book:
This refers to a cliché that is a commonly used phrase, or folk wisdom,
sometimes used to quell cognitive dissonance. Though the clichéd phrase in and
of itself may be valid in certain contexts, its application as a means of
dismissing dissent or justifying fallacious logic is what makes it
thought-terminating.
In the context of this book Lifton discusses them as a tool that states used to
alter thought in predictable ways.
Freedom is universally accepted to mean… something. Propagandists can subtly
occupy the phrase with their own ideology. If the state’s will is common sense,
how would you ever argue with it? If the state’s will is self contradictory
(democracy is good, but let’s put dictators in power if they’ll deal with us),
this can entirely be hidden inside the cliché, and the mind never really has to
experience the contradiction.
Thought-Termination and Principles
Suppose Romeo meets Juliet and wants to know what he feels. Wanting to know a
good word to describe what he’s going through, he turns to Google and types
“define love”
an intense feeling of deep affection.
“Ah! Okay, all sorted then.” thinks Romeo. His thought has terminated. He has a
useful word for it. Why go further?
I argue that “Love” is a thought-terminating cliché. There is a very good reason
why wizened elders will roll their eyes at puppy-dog love between star crossed
lover types. In the play, Romeo and Juliet are experiencing a particular brand
of adolescent “love,” that ultimately leads to the tragic ending of double
suicides and happy daggers. It isn’t good, and people get a feel for how
senseless it was, and how shallow their relationship was. They were just two
kids who met at a party!
As much as we can talk about people having experience and learning what is
meant by a word like Love, we can definitely see that the word doesn’t seem to
be doing a good job in this case. Lots of young people hear about the concept
of Love and go into relationships saying “I love you” basically ASAP. Talk to
these same people years later, and they will laugh about how naive they were
back then (Not romeo and Juliet thought because 🔪, obviously.) We write a lot
of songs about Love and how crazy it makes you. And on and on.
Really, Love is always something more. It takes a lot of time. It isn’t quite
happiness. It isn’t quite connection. It isn’t quite security. But it certainly
is partly all of these things and others. Divorces happen. Sixth marriages do
to. Nowhere in this soupy mess is the word or definition of “Love” very useful.
In fact it could even be very destructive. People can fall out of Love, and
never know it. They can say the word without being in love and never notice
they weren’t. Just as “freedom” masked state hypocrisy in the previous section,
“love” can do the same but between two people. Maybe if Juliet would have sat
and thought about what she really meant by love, she’d have woken up in the
church, and walked out alive.
We all say it, but I think nobody is quite positive what is really meant by it;
but that doesn’t make the word unimportant. In fact, people will vigorously
defend the idea that they Love their significant other, and they’ll say it back
and forth all day long, and get warm fuzzies and feel certain that what they
have is love. How can we be so sure that we have a thing if we can’t even
explain it?
Because Love is a principle.
Those Who are Closest
I think a good principle, in the way that Dee Hock means it, is like Love or
Freedom. We can never really define or understand them.
From Wikipedia.
[Tao] is a Chinese word signifying ‘way’, ‘path’, ‘route’, or sometimes more
loosely, ‘doctrine’ or ‘principle’. Within the context of traditional Chinese
philosophy and religion, the Tao is the intuitive knowing of “life” that
cannot be grasped full-heartedly as just a concept but is known nonetheless
through actual living experience of one’s everyday being.
Principles are like the Tao (ARE the Tao.) They are things which can only be
understood through living them. You can’t completely ever define them. You can’t
completely understand them. That’s the whole point. Their shifting nature is
part of what makes them useful. Fixate solely on Love, and you end up like Romeo
and Juliet. Focus on the life you want with the person you want to have it with,
and you end up with love. You cannot fall in love by wanting to fall in Love.
You just kind of have to go and be in Love.
The power of principles is not what they are as concepts. The power of a
principle are their undefinability. A good principle will yield infinite
action without becoming more clear to you. In fact, if you follow a principle,
understanding it really doesn’t seem important any more. Don’t worry about it.
Resist the urge to document or capture your principles. Just think about them,
and act.
The difficulty with company principles is that they are formed outside of
yourself. When they’re adopted and distributed to the teams, it is exceedingly
difficult to express this intangibility in a way that clicks properly. At this
point, principles will operate as thought-terminating clichés. They are reduced
to a definition. The moment this happens they stop being principles, and start
being words. It is a way, not a concept. The only value to be had in a principle
is the value gained by thinking beyond it. When principles degrade, they
actually prevent us from progessing. How does a company learn to naturally live
with its principles? How do we work together as a team to embody undefinable
concepts?
Zen does not confuse spirituality with thinking about God while one is peeling
potatoes. Zen spirituality is just to peel the potatoes. - Alan Watts | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Twitter, Facebook, blogging, chat rooms, email, the internet and beyond - for most parents, teachers and youth workers, getting to grips with new technology is a bit of a challenge. But keeping children safe is a much bigger one. As technology changes, and young people grasp it faster than the older generations do, it can be a real struggle to know what to do to help, equip and defend. Dr Bex Lewis is an expert in new technology. She knows how it works, what to do and where to go for the latest information. It is rarely possible to keep young people away from new technology, nor is it wise. This evening helped enable parents, teachers and youth workers to give young people the equipment they need to get the best out of new technology and to avoid the dangers.
Bex has featured on/in: The One Show (BBC1), Steve Wright in the Afternoon (BBC Radio 2), BBC News, The Telegraph, Laptop Library (BBC Radio 4), The Church Times, Best, Financial Times, The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, Taz. de, The Independent, Daily Express, Premier Radio, UCB Radio, Third Way Magazine, Huffington Post and frequent local and specialist press – with reviews of Raising Children in a Digital Age from around the world. See photos above for Bex on BBC News and The One Show.
Bex's book 'Raising Children in a Digital Age' has received rave reviews and is the base for the seminar - you can purchase the book on Amazon and in many bookshops. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
One in 50 million: Living without health care
Who are the roughly 50 million Americans without health insurance, and why don't they have it? The Missourian is giving voice to the stories of Boone County residents who live without the safety net of insurance. Check here to find all of the stories in our series.
COLUMBIA — As the health care debate rages on, a closer look at one of the catalysts for reform — the number of Americans without health insurance — sheds some light on how the current health care system impacts people's daily lives.
According to 2008 Census Bureau statistics, about 46 million U.S. citizens were without health insurance. With the recession, many experts are estimating that number to be rapidly approaching 50 million.
In Boone County alone, more than 21,000 people — or 14 percent of the population under the age of 65 — are uninsured, according to a county health assessment from 2007 and numbers from the U.S. Census Bureau.
For a more complete look at the statistics and legislation of this debate, go to this story.
The Missourian is going to be telling the stories of Boone County residents who don't have health insurance. They're your neighbors and co-workers, but each is just one in 50 million.
Ferguson transfers custody to get daughter health coverage
Jodie Ferguson, 26, is one of thousands of Boone County residents
without health care coverage. She survived leukemia when she was 12,
but the disease left her unable to afford insurance. That meant
making a difficult decision about her daughter. Read Ferguson's story here.
Sullivan seeks a job with benefits
Michael Sullivan, 23, reflects on the car wreck that hospitalized him, the birth of his son and the vulnerability of living without health insurance. Read Sullivan's story here.
Moore doesn't see need for coverage
Fergus Moore, 46, has chosen to live without health insurance for 15 years. He made the decision to go without after an insurance company agreed to pay for a surgery and then did not. Read Moore's story here. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Reduction of extracellular methemoglobin by erythrocytes.
Erythrocytes, suspended in a glucose-containing buffer, catalyzed the partial reduction of extracellular methemoglobin. Physiological concentrations of ascorbic acid or dehydroascorbic acid greatly enhanced the rate of reaction and the ultimate extent of reduction. The relationship between erythrocyte concentration and initial reaction rate was nonlinear, which suggested that the rate limiting factor was not an erythrocyte membrane enzyme. Also, significant dehydroascorbate-stimulated reduction occurred even when the erythrocytes and methemoglobin were separated by a dialysis membrane. The above observations indicate that the transfer of reducing equivalents across the erythrocyte membrane and reduction of extracellular methemoglobin can be accomplished by release and recycling of ascorbic acid. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Contents
Until the 19th century Kempston was a mainly rural parish. It was one of the largest in Bedfordshire with an area of 5,025 acres (20 km²) at the time of enclosure in 1804, and was in Redbournestoke Hundred. Historically there was no central village, but instead settlement was divided between a number of hamlets called "Ends", for example, Up End, Bell End, Wood End and Box End. Kempston's parish church, All Saints, was in Church End, which was not the largest end but is fairly central. In the 19th century East End, Bell End and Up End began to coalesce into a larger settlement. In 1870 developers began to attempt to develop land on the road from Kempston to Bedford under the name "Kempston New Town". Construction was slow at first, but the new district soon began to expand steadily and Kempston acquired a more urban feel. A permanent military presence was established in the town with the completion of Kempston Barracks in 1876.[1]
In 1896 the parish was divided into Kempston Urban District 1,255 acres (5.1 km²) and the civil parish of Kempston Rural 3,770 acres (15 km²).
Kempston in 1908
The Urban District was based on East End, Up End and Kempston New Town all of which are in the north eastern part of the parish close to Bedford, and had 86.8% of the total population at the 1901 census. Kempston Rural was three times larger, but remained sparsely populated. Church End, with its original parish church, remains a small hamlet in the rural part of Kempston.
The growth of Kempston's population levelled off in the early decades of the 20th century, with a rise of just 12% between 1901 and 1931, but it then began to expand rapidly. The 1951 population of just under 10,000 was 60% higher that that of 1931; in the second half of the 20th century, the population nearly doubled. In 1974 Kempston Urban District was abolished and Kempston reverted to being a civil parish, in the Borough of Bedford but with a separate town council with minor powers. For borough election purposes the town is divided into four wards called Kempston Central and East, Kempston North, Kempston South and Kempston West. Kempston Rural remains a civil parish and is part of Turvey Ward for borough election purposes.
Note 1: 1981 figures are provisional (more up to date source needed).
Note 2: The 2001 Kempston Urban figure is the combined total for the three urban wards of Kempston East, Kempston North and Kempston South.
The name in its old form is "kemestun" which includes the Brittonic word "cambio" meaning bent or curved. Therefore, the name meant when coined "the enclosed settlement on the bend". The bend was that of the River Great Ouse, noted for its sharp bends upstream of Bedford. It is, however, also possible that "cambita" (the curved one) was the name given to this stretch of the river by the Celtic-speaking population. In this case the name could have developed like that of the river Kembs in the French Department of Haut Rhin. Kempston is also a family name for many individuals from British Ancestry. Kempston was recorded as "camestone" in the Domesday Book and had a 6th-century Anglo Saxon burial site, now home to the Saxon Centre. The meaning of the name Kempston is not known for certain. The element 'ton' is Old English and means a settlement of some sort. The most plausible meaning of the element 'Caemb' is that it was the name of an Anglo-Saxon who owned the settlement. Thus we have the possessive case expressing this relationship by the 's.' The speculation that the element 'Caemb' means bent or curved seems much less likely, because the river consists of many bends and curves and therefore the name would have been of no use in locating a particular settlement.
For many centuries, All Saints' Church in Church End, which was first Catholic and later Anglican, was the only place of worship in Kempston. It is attractively situated in a green churchyard close to the river, and the location is still rural. William the Conqueror's niece Judith commissioned the west tower, nave and chancel in 1100. The tower arch and chancel arch remain from Norman times. The aisles were added in the 13th century. In the 15th century the windows were replaced, the tower was heightened and the nave walls were also heightened, forming a clerestory. The font is 14th-century. Refurbishments were carried out in the 19th century, and the north and south galleries were added at that time to accommodate children.
In the 19th century two additional Church of England churches were built to accommodate the rising population. The first was St John's in Up End, which was consecrated in 1868. It soon suffered from subsidence, possibly caused by an underground stream. The burgeoning population of Kempston New Town was served by St Stephen's, a temporary iron church in Spring Road which was built in 1888. After a member of the locally prominent Williamson family bequeathed £8,000 for the purpose in 1927 the Church of the Transfiguration (Transfiguration church, kempston) was built in Bedford Road to replace two unsatisfactory Victorian churches. It is a solid work in red brick and was consecrated in 1940. St John's was unused as a church after that and was eventually demolished in 1965. St Stephen's was sold to the Saunders' leather factory on nearby College St.
Methodism has been prominent in Kempston since the mid 19th century. The first Methodist chapel in the parish was built in Bell End in 1839, and its capacity was expanded by adding a gallery in 1843. In 1860 a larger replacement was constructed in the High Street at a cost of £600. The modern Kempston West Methodist Church now stands on the site. Kempston East Methodist Church in Bedford Road was opened in 1904 to serve the new parts of Kempston in the direction of Bedford. Sir Frederick Howard donated the site and £1,000, the Twentieth Century Trust provided another £1,000 and a local appeal raised around £3,000. The church is an attractive Gothic building in pale rustic Weldon stone, and has a hammerbeam roof. In addition to the two mainstream Methodist churches a small Primitive Methodist chapel was built in Bedford Road in or soon after 1896, when a site was purchased for £65 2s. 6d. It became Newtown Methodist chapel after the merger of the various Methodist churches in the 1930s, but it was sold off in 1959 and used for business purposes.
Kempston abuts both John Bunyan's home parish of Elstow and Bedford, where he was imprisoned. The Bedford church now known as the Bunyan Meeting had members in Kempston from at least 1657, and ministers from the church sometimes preached in private houses in Kempston. The first Congregationalist church building in Kempston was opened in the High Street in 1813. A replacement church was built in Kempston New town in 1871. It was extended in 1888 and a hall was added in 1907.
Up until the Second World WarRoman Catholics who lived in Kempston were obliged to worship at a church in Bedford. A Roman Catholic chapel was established during the war at the Army's Grange Camp, which was situated where Hillgrounds is now, and it retained after 1945. The first resident Catholic priest in Kempston was appointed in 1965 and the present small and plain Catholic church in Bedford Road was built at around this time.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was first introduced in Bedford and Kempston by a missionary called Willard Richards on 1 August 1837. Bedfordshire was one of the first places in the British Isles to have an LDS Church organised: It was first introduced to the British Isles on 20 July 1837. Between that time and Willard Richards being called back to Preston on 7 March 1838 about 40 people were baptised members of the LDS Church in the Bedford area. Kempston still has Mormon missionaries and membership is steadily increasing[citation needed]. In 1986 the LDS Church completed the building of its Bedford Chapel/Meetinghouse. The Chapel stands near the north west corner of Addison Park close to The Grange. The plot was previously the location of the Kempston Liberal Club. The LDS Church previously met at Silver Jubilee School off Acacia Road in Bedford for at least six years before and various other locations in Bedford before that.
Kempston's main park is Addison Howard Park, which is part of the grounds of Grange House, once one of the principal residences in the parish, which survives as flats. This estate was owned in the 1880s by the Howard family (ancestors of the randlord Sir George Herbert Farrar Bt and the current Earl of Lonsdale) proprietors of the Britannia Iron Works in Bedford (opposite Bedford Hospital, and also known as George Fisher Castings, before its closure and demolition in the late 20th century). Scions of the Howard family were also settled at the nearby estates of Clapham Park and Biddenham Manor. Grange House was later donated by the Kempston branch of the Howard family to the people of Kempston. There is an indoor swimming pool which opened in the 1980s. Kempston's Sainsbury's supermarket was the chain's largest branch when it opened in the 1970s. The headquarters of the Bedfordshire Police are in Kempston.
Apart from All Saints' Church, the best-known historic buildings are the King William IV pub and Kempston Barracks. The King William is a timber-framed building in bold black and white. The exterior is 17th century, but it is believed to contain much medieval work.
The Bedford Southern Bypass on the A421, was constructed in the 1990s and links with the Kempston relief road, built in the 1980s. There is an out-of-town shopping centre called Kempston Interchange Retail Park alongside it, and Asda, Argos and Woolworths distribution centres have opened at the Kempston end of it since the turn of the millennium. The Woolworths distribution centre was taken over by Sainsburys in 2010. In 2007 work began on the Bedford Western Bypass which opened in 2010. The road cuts through Kempston Rural, crossing the Great Ouse between the urban area and Church End. In 2011 preliminary work began on extending the Western Bypass to join the A6 to the North of Bedford. In 2003 Bedford Borough Council adopted a planning brief for the land close to the Western bypass that proposes the construction of 1,000 new homes.[2] In December 2010 work finished on construction of a new stretch of the A421 from Kempston to Junction 13 of the M1 motorway, this now provides a full dual carriageway link road between the A1 and the M1. The new dual-carriageway runs parallel to the existing road, which will be retained for local use. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Water heater replaced at Hopkins' Keswick campus
Officials on Tuesday continued investigating the second round of illnesses in less than a week at a North Baltimore office building but did not quickly find a link between the two bouts.
Still, officials overseeing the investigation are confident that the building is safe and have decided it will be open for business on Wednesday.
The water heater that was identified as the source of last week's sicknesses — more than 20 people reported headaches, breathing problems and dizziness — was taken offline before the building, part of the Johns Hopkins at Keswick campus, was reopened.
But on Monday, about a dozen individuals reported symptoms similar to those experienced by employees last week and the building was again closed.
"To be absolutely clear, we are confident that water in the building is currently safe," said a statement Tuesday evening from Ronald R. Peterson, president of the Johns Hopkins Health System, and Daniel G. Ennis, a finance and administration executive for the Johns Hopkins University.
The heater was removed and replaced over the weekend, officials said. Kitchens, bathrooms and facilities connected to the heater that caused the illness — all on the north side of the campus' south building — have been closed since the first illnesses and will remain closed Wednesday, they said.
"Late [Monday], we learned that the nitrites that made employees sick last Tuesday were accidentally infused last Monday afternoon into the hot water heater serving the affected half of the south building," Peterson and Ennis said. "This knowledge corroborates our strong belief, based on hundreds of tests since last week, that this one hot water heater was the source of those illnesses."
Nitrites, a toxic substance that humans can be exposed to through ingestion, breathing or skin absorption, can cause shortness of breath, dizziness and, in extreme cases, coma or death. It is sometimes used to prevent steel corrosion in boiler systems.
"We have flushed the water in the system repeatedly. And we have tested the water repeatedly. The test results are negative," they said.
The water heater that was removed is estimated to be about 20 years old, said Dennis O'Shea, a spokesman for the Johns Hopkins University. Hopkins does not know the exact date of manufacture or installation, he said.
The heater was last inspected by the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation on July 11, 2011, he said. The inspection is valid for two years, O'Shea said.
"The precautionary closure of the Keswick south building on Tuesday has given us complete confidence that the building is safe for employees," Peterson and Ennis said.
Health department investigators "are continuing their epidemiological investigation of all the illnesses reported at Keswick, those from last week and those from Monday," they said.
Investigators are still trying to determine if the two incidents of sickness are connected, said Tiffany Thomas Smith, a spokeswoman for the Baltimore City Health Department.
Employees worked in the south building on Thursday and Friday last week and most of Monday morning before the second batch of illnesses were reported Monday. Throughout that time the contaminated water heater was out of the picture.
A fire official said Monday's patients were all light-headed and experiencing headaches, weakness, nausea and dizziness.
Although certain that the building is safe, Hopkins is taking extra steps to ensure its employees are comfortable when the building reopens Wednesday, officials said.
Water coolers, filled with water from outside the building, have been installed throughout the south building. An on-site doctor and nurse will also be present.
"We will continue to test water in the building on at least a weekly basis for the foreseeable future," Peterson and Ennis said Tuesday evening.
The contaminated water system will continue to be flushed and facilities that remain closed will be reopened after inspection by the Baltimore health department, they said.
The north building of the Keswick complex, on the eastern edge of Hampden by The Rotunda, is on a separate water systems, the officials said, and no illnesses have been reported there.
The two buildings house about 1,050 administrative workers from the university and health system. The south building was built in 1981. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Q:
using where clause inside include generate error "The Include path expression must refer to a navigation property defined on the type"
I want to filter attachment when get a billing:
var billing = db.Billings
.Include(b => b.Client)
.Include(b => b.Attachments.Where(a => a.WorkflowStateID == workflowStateID))
.Where(b => b.BillingID == id)
.FirstOrDefault();
Billing Entity:
public partial class Billing
{
public Billing()
{
this.Attachments = new HashSet<Attachment>();
}
public long BillingID { get; set; }
public int ClientID { get; set; }
public virtual ICollection<Attachment> Attachments { get; set; }
public virtual Client Client { get; set; }
}
but it gives an error
The Include path expression must refer to a navigation property defined on the type.
Use dotted paths for reference navigation properties and the Select operator for
collection navigation properties
How to use where clause on include?
What I want to achieve is if I translate in query sql:
select *
from Billing b
inner join Client c on b.ClientID = c.ClientID
inner join (select * from Attachment a where a.WorkflowStateID = @workflowStateID) t on b.BillingID = t.BillingID
where b.BillingID = @billingID
A:
As stated it is not allowed to use Where inside Include method. As I know it is not possible to filter navigation properties like that. What you could do is using projection
var billing = db.Billings
.Where(b => b.BillingID == id)
.Select(b => new {
Billing = b,
BillingClient = b.Client
FilteredAttachments = b.Attachments.Where(a => a.WorkflowStateID == workflowStateID)
})
.FirstOrDefault();
| null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
ELISA test for the detection of an immunological blocking factor in human pregnancy serum.
We have previously shown that progesterone-treated lymphocytes of healthy pregnant women can produce a 34 kDa protein, progesterone-induced blocking factor (PIBF) capable of blocking lymphocyte function in vitro. Lymphocytes of women with idiopathic threatened pre-term delivery failed to produce this factor. On the assumption that the PIBF appears in the serum of healthy pregnant women but not in that of women at risk for immunologically based abortion of pre-term delivery, an ELISA has been designed for detecting the blocking factor in serum samples. Sera obtained at the time of delivery, as well as those from women with pre-term deliveries or miscarriages, contained significantly less PIBF than sera of 209 healthy pregnant women. Data obtained by testing sera of women at 16 weeks gestation whose pregnancies ended in spontaneous abortion showed that the predictive value of the test depended on the time interval between blood sampling and the onset of abortion. In 11 of 13 women with uterine contractions the outcome of pregnancy was predictable by normal or lower than normal levels of PIBF in the sera taken at the time the symptoms were presented. The data suggest that determination of PIBF in pregnancy serum might contribute to the diagnosis of immunologically bases pre-term disruption of pregnancy. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Bogoliubov-Cerenkov radiation in a Bose-Einstein condensate flowing against an obstacle.
We study the density modulation that appears in a Bose-Einstein condensate flowing with supersonic velocity against an obstacle. The experimental density profiles observed at JILA are reproduced by a numerical integration of the Gross-Pitaevskii equation and then interpreted in terms of Cerenkov emission of Bogoliubov excitations by the defect. The phonon and the single-particle regions of the Bogoliubov spectrum are, respectively, responsible for a conical wave front and a fan-shaped series of precursors. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Chemical characterization of the milk oligosaccharides of some Artiodactyla species including giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis), sitatunga (Tragelaphus spekii), deer (Cervus nippon yesoensis) and water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis).
Mammalian milk/colostrum usually contains oligosaccharides along with the predominant disaccharide lactose. It has been found that the number and identity of these milk oligosaccharides varies among mammalian species. Oligosaccharides predominate over lactose in the milk/colostrum of Arctoidea species (Carnivora), whereas lactose predominates over milk oligosaccharides in Artiodactyla including cow, sheep, goat, camel, reindeer and pig. To clarify whether heterogeneity of a variety of milk oligosaccharides is found within other species of Artiodactyla, they were studied in the milk of giraffe, sitatunga, deer and water buffalo. The following oligosaccharides were found: Neu5Ac(α2-3)[GalNAc(β1-4)]Gal(β1-4)Glc (GM2 tetrasaccharide), and Gal(α1-3)Gal(β1-4)Glc (isoglobotriose) in giraffe milk; Neu5Ac(α2-3)Gal(β1-4)Glc (3'-SL), Neu5Ac(α2-6)Gal(β1-4)Glc (6'-SL), Gal(α1-4)Gal(β1-4)Glc (globotriose) and isoglobotriose in sitatunga colostrum; Gal(β1-3)Gal(β1-4)Glc (3'-GL), Gal(β1-6)Gal(β1-4)Glc (6'-GL), isoglobotriose, Gal(β1-4)GlcNAc(β1-3)Gal(β1-4)Glc (lacto-N-neotetraose, LNnT), Gal(β1-4)Glc-3'-O-SO3 (3'-O-lactose sulphate) in deer milk; 3'-GL, isoglobotriose and Gal(β1-3)Gal(β1-3)Gal(β1-4)Glc (3',3″-digalactosyllactose, DGL) in water buffalo colostrum. Thus it was shown that the milk oligosaccharides are heterogeneous among these Artiodactyla species. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Joan Solà i Cortassa
Joan Solà Cortassa (Bell-lloc d'Urgell, 10 January 1940 — Barcelona, 27 October 2010) was a Catalan linguist and philologist. He was professor of Catalan language and literature at the University of Barcelona from 1984 onwards, and vice president of the Institut d'Estudis Catalans (IEC) from 2009.
Biography
He graduated in Classical Philology in 1965 at University of Barcelona and he got his PhD in Catalan Philology in 1970 at that same university. In 1977 he graduated with a master's degree in Linguistics at the University of Reading in England.
He was a professor at various institutions of higher learning (such as the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona) starting in 1965, and from 1984 onwards he was chair of Catalan language and literature at the Universitat de Barcelona. He was also a member of the Internacional Association of Catalan Language and Literature. He co-directed, with Jordi Mir, the creation of the Obres completes de Pompeu Fabra, as well as directing the project for the Gramàtica del català contemporani, and at the time of his death was contributing to the new normative grammar for the Institut d’Estudis Catalans, where he had been a member since 1999. He published a number of studies and almost a thousand newspaper articles, most of which were about subjects related to syntax or the history of the Catalan language.
He died on 27 October 2010 in Barcelona at 70 years of age, and lied in repose at the historic Paranimf auditorium of the University of Barcelona the day after. In May 2011 his posthumous book L’última lliçó (The last lesson) was published, consisting of his public interventions during 2009, the year in which he received all of his major honors.
His family donated Solà's private library to the CRAI Biblioteca de Lletres de la Universitat de Barcelona and his personal archive to the Biblioteca de Catalunya.
Linguistic ideology
As a linguist he argued that we must separate what is internal to a language from what is external (what is established by the grammar is different from the actual use of that structure or sentence). He also was in favor of integrating the great dialects into the normative grammar. In particular, he defended that the Catalan normative grammar must be compositional (i.e. all dialects must be included so as that speakers identify with the standard language). He was in favor of relying on the native speakers’ intuition and therefore defended that people shouldn't be afraid of using a particular dialect across the Catalan territories. Solà also stated that a normative grammar must be, first, a descriptive grammar, taking into account all the information that has been gathered of a language.
Awards
Among the awards which he was given were the Premi a la Investigació Lingüística (Award for Linguistic Investigation) from the Fundació Enciclopèdia Catalan (1991), and the Premi de Recerca Crítica Serra d’Or (the Serra d’Or Award for Critical Research for his work Història de la lingüística catalana, 1775-1900: repertori crític (“History of Catalan Linguistics, 1775-1900: A Critical Repertory”, 1999, written together with Pere Marcet), the Sanchis Guarner Award from the Fundació Jaume I for the Gramàtica del català contemporani (“Grammar of Contemporary Catalan”, 2002, a project he led along with Maria-Rosa Lloret, Joan Mascaró, and Manuel Pérez-Saldanya), or the Narcís Monturiol Medal for scientific and technological merit for his research into the Catalan language, both synchronic and diachronic, as well as for his work in the dissemination of that knowledge for the general public.
In 2005 he received the Creu de Sant Jordi. In 2009 he was granted an honorary doctorate by the University of Lleida, and received the Premi d’Honor de les Lletres Catalanes, an award conferred by the association Òmnium Cultural in recognition of civic trajectory and prestige of published works. In 2010 he was honored for his lifelong dedication to the defense of the Catalan language and culture at the Premis Joan Coromines, given by the Coordinadora d’Associacions per la Llengua catalana.
In 2010 the book Joan Solà. 10 textos d’homenatge (“Joan Solà: 10 Texts in Homage”) was published, edited by of the department of Catalan Philology at the Universitat de Barcelona, in which many of his collaborators contributed pieces on his life and works.
Main works
Tots els llibres de la biblioteca Joan Solà a Universitat de Barcelona.(-∞ a.J - +∞ d.J)
Estudis de sintaxi catalana(1972-1973)
A l'entorn de la llengua(1977)
Del català incorrecte al català correcte(1977)
"Ser" i "estar" en el català d'avui(1981)
Sintaxi generativa catalana(1986), with Sebastià Bonet
Qüestions controvertides de sintaxi catalana(1987)
L'obra de Pompeu Fabra(1987)
Bibliografia lingüística catalana del segle XIX(1989), amb Pere Marcet
Lingüística i normativa(1990)
La llengua, una convenció dialèctica(1993)
Sintaxi normativa: estat de la qüestió(1994)
Història de la lingüística catalana, 1775-1900(1998), with Pere Marcet
Parlem-ne(1999)
Gramàtica del català contemporani(2002), edited with Maria-Rosa Lloret, Joan Mascaró and Manuel Pérez-Saldanya
Ensenyar la llengua(2003)
Pompeu Fabra: vida i obra(2007), with Jordi Ginebra
Plantem cara. Defensa de la llengua, defensa de la terra(2009)
L'última lliçó(2011)
Literature about Solà
"Qui és Joan Solà?", in Festes de setembre 1988. Bell-lloc d'Urgell, 1988, p. 2.
BRANCHADELL, Albert: "La gramática de Solà", La Vanguardia, June 26, 2002, p. 5-6.
PLA NUALART, Albert: "Doctor 'Laboris Causa'", Avui, May 10, 2009, p. 49.
RIERA, Carles: "Joan Solà, lingüista", Serra d'Or, núm. 517, 2003, p. 23-24.
SÀNCHEZ, Àngel: "Joan Solà", El Periódico, July 8 d 2002.
NOGUÉ, Neus ... [et al.] ed. Joan Solà: 10 textos d'homenatge. Barcelona: Empúries, 2010.
OLIVA, Salvador (ed.). Joan Solà, in memoriam. Girona: University of Girona, 2012.
ADALIL SESPLUGUES, Xavier. "Bibliografia sobre Joan Solà". Bachelor's thesis. UOC, 2014.
MARÍ I MAYANS, Isidor, "Joan Solà i Cortassa (1940-2010)" in Estudis Romànics34 (2012), p. 751-755.
References
Category:1940 births
Category:2010 deaths
Category:Catalan academics
Category:Spanish philologists | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Q:
How to tell if iPhone application was launched by backgrounding or not
My application uses NSUserDefaults to store some values so that it can restore them on application update or if backgrounding is quit. Backgrounding automatically saves my integer values, but if the user quits the application from the launcher, the numbers are lost too, and the ViewDidUnload method I guess doesn't evoke when entering backgrounding. Is there a way that I can save the NSUserDefaults any time the application unloads. Also, the ViewDidLoad method had the same problem, it doesn't evoke from backgrounding. What's a way around this?
P.S. So far the only data my application needs to save is an int for an on-screen count.
UPDATE: UIApplicationDidEnterBackgroundingNotification works great with your suggestions!
A:
You can't save data right before it eventually gets killed, but you can save state 'just in case' in your applicationDidEnterBackground: app delegate.
There's also applicationDidBecomeActive:, but there's no reason to load your save data from there, since when it's invoked from an app that was in the background, the data will have been preserved any way.
| null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Calcium signaling in human platelets.
The past three years have seen significant advances in our knowledge and understanding of Ca2+ mobilization in platelets. Some of the data has shown that systems demonstrated in other cell types operate in platelets, while in certain respects platelet studies have provided the lead with new insights and approaches. An increasing body of evidence supports a key role for Ins1,4,5-trisphosphate in mediating internal release, but it has yet to be experimentally demonstrated that this messenger is formed fast enough to account for the observed kinetics of internal release that can reach its maximum rate within 250 msec. There also remains a question as to the presence of an alternative or additional pathway linking at least ADP receptors to internal Ca2+ release. The controversy over the role of pHi in Ca2+ mobilization appears to be resolved; changes in pHi are neither sufficient nor necessary but can modulate the process in some instances. Elevated cAMP and protein kinase C inhibit Ca mobilization, but the sites and mechanisms of action are not worked out. Analysis of receptor-mediated Ca2+ entry by stopped-flow fluorescence has increasingly revealed a complex array of mechanisms, but there is no evidence for voltage-gated Ca2+ entry. There are indications of at least three pathways: a fast entry closely coupled to the ADP receptor; a process that may be generated by a diffusible second messenger, possibly an inositol phosphate; and an entry regulated by the state of filling of the discharged Ca2+ store. A recent advance has been the successful application of the patch-clamp to these tiny cells, with evidence for voltage-gated K+ channels and ADP-stimulated single channels that could be the pathway for the fast phase of ADP-evoked [Ca2+]i elevation. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
After months of uncertainty and weeks of negotiations, California lawmakers worked through Thursday night and all day Friday to approve a deal aimed at closing the state’s $26.3 billion budget deficit.
Following the nearly 24-hour-long session, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signaled that he plans to approve the revisions, putting an end – at least for now – to the state’s budget bickering.
“Hopefully we will sign the budget in the next two or three days,” said Schwarzenegger, who called the budget revisions “acceptable.”
Legislators approved cutting about $15.5 billion in spending from the 2009-10 budget, making large cuts to the state’s education, health and social services systems.
The revisions do not raise taxes – a provision Republicans demanded – but does not, as Schwarzenegger had proposed, eliminate welfare, health care and other programs that Democrats refused to axe. It also calls for borrowing money from local governments.
“It’s not the perfect budget,” said Assemblywoman Wilmer Amina Carter, D-Rialto, said Friday afternoon – about 36 hours after she last slept. “It’s something no one likes. We don’t like it, but it’s the best we could do at this particular time.”
Schwarzenegger and legislative leaders reached an agreement on the budget Monday, and the bills passed Thursday and Friday remained largely true to that plan.
But lawmakers in the Assembly blocked a few provisions of the plan, including a deal that would have allowed a new oil operation off the Santa Barbara County coast and a plan to take transportation funding from local governments.
That leaves the budget still in deficit, but Sen. Bob Huff said Schwarzenegger will use his executive authority to make further cuts.
Huff said the state Assembly’s refusal to approve the oil-drilling arrangement, called the Tranquillon Ridge project, was “short-sighted.”
“I know (oil drilling) is an emotional issue, but at this point, cutting more of our social safety net or cutting schools, those are emotional issues too,” he said.
But Huff said the deal, overall, is good for the state.
“We were able to resolve a $25 billion deficit without raising taxes,” he said. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Find out which companies are about to raise their dividend well before the news hits the Street with StreetInsider.com's Dividend Insider Elite. Sign-up for a FREE trial here.
BOSTON (Reuters) - A Saudi Arabian man who was injured in the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing has settled a lawsuit filed against U.S. conservative media commentator Glenn Beck for claiming the man had helped finance the deadly attack.
The two sides on Wednesday declined to comment on the terms of the settlement deal, first disclosed in a filing in U.S. District Court in Boston on Tuesday.
"No party has admitted any fault, wrongdoing, or responsibility as part of the settlement," the Saudi man, Abdulrahman Alharbi, and Beck's media company, The Blaze Inc, said in a joint statement.
Abdulrahman sued Beck in 2014, saying the commentator had repeatedly described him as the "money man" behind the bombing, which killed three people and injured 264. He said Beck continued to repeat the claim after federal officials had cleared him of wrongdoing.
The attacks were the work of a pair of ethnic Chechen brothers, Dzohkhar and Tamerlan Tsarnaev, who planted a pair of homemade pressure-cooker bombs at the race's crowded finish line on April 15, 2013.
Tamerlan died four days later following a gunfight with police as the two tried to flee Boston. Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was found guilty last year of the attack and sentenced to death. He is appealing that sentence.
The two were inspired by Al Qaeda militants, federal prosecutors said at trial, though they did not allege that the Tsarnaevs were part of any foreign terror group. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
DWI Drug Court was founded in 1994.
3,000 drug courts in effect nationwide.
New Mexico has 52 "problem-solving courts."
LAS CRUCES – "If you are willing to be changed, this program will work," Paul Contreras said as he looked back on his time in the Doña Ana Magistrate Court's DWI Drug Court.
Contreras was one of six participants to graduate from the program Monday – the largest graduating class since its inception in 1994. The ceremony was led by Magistrate Judge Joel Cano.
The program for repeat offenders includes intensive treatment for substance abuse, moral reconation therapy, random testing for drugs and alcohol, and regular meetings before one of the program's two presiding magistrate judges, Cano and Norman Osborne.
"Treatment courts are the nation's most effective strategy to reduce drug use and recidivism among substance-addicted, nonviolent offenders with criminal histories," program coordinator Carmen Florez Lucero said in a statement, estimating that the program spends $22 daily for each participant compared to the $98 daily cost of incarceration per individual.
MORE:Drug overdose deaths in New Mexico down 4 percent
During court sessions, participants discuss their treatment progress with the judge, as well as drug test results, compliance with surveillance procedures, education progress and/or employment, and they count their days clean of drugs or alcohol. There are sanctions for missing drug tests, curfew violations, or simply being late checking in with officers, with involuntary termination from the program (and possible incarceration) the last resort.
The minimum time required for a participant to complete the program, absent any sanctions, is 14 months, Cano said. Three of the six graduates on Monday completed the program without sanctions. But in dealing with addiction, relapses and subsequent problems, Cano emphasized that the journey was longer for some than others.
"I enjoy that everyone is not the same," Cano said during a graduation ceremony at the courthouse. "Those who make it hard and challenging, all they do is make me up my game."
MORE:Grant awarded to combat drug use in county
New Mexico is home to 52 "problem-solving courts," including drug courts or combined DWI/drug courts for adults, juveniles, veterans, or participants in need of additional mental health services.
In 1989, Florida’s Miami-Dade County was the first to implement an Adult Drug Court program. By 2015, according to the National Institute of Justice, there were more than 3,000 drug court dockets nationwide
Cano said the program also pays off by helping participants live "a life of sobriety," healing families, and enhancing public safety.
The program at Doña Ana Magistrate Court, founded by Judge Oscar Fritz, is accredited through the National Association of Drug Court Professionals. The organization's CEO, Carson Fox, said in a statement: "Treatment courts are a proven budget solution that stops the revolving door of arrest and incarceration for people with substance use and mental health disorders."
Algernon D'Ammassa can be reached at 575-541-5451, [email protected] or @AlgernonActor on Twitter.
MORE:
Doña Ana County sues opioid manufacturers and distributors over deaths, addiction
One Stop Tobacco Shop owner indicted on felony drug charge
New Mexico lawmaker gets one-day sentence for DWI | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
MM! Collection [2 DVDs]
There are twisted tales and twisted tales, but few are as twisted as poor Sado's, who's just realized that he actually likes being made miserable. Of course, knowing that only makes him more miserable, which in turn... well, you get the idea. Desperate to break the circle, Sado volunteers for a special club where he hopes he can work through his issues only to discover that the other members have equally... complex... issues to deal with.
For example, the hyper-aggressive club president Isurugi not only has a violent fear of cats, but also believes herself to be a god! Then there's Yuno, who's terrified of men; the Nurse, who forces other people to perform cosplay; and Hayama, Sado's best friend and a compulsive cross-dresser, who's also the girl that Sado is infatuated with. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) will no longer hold a ceremonial burning of some five tons of seized elephant tusks but assured that it will push through with crushing the confiscated ivory on June 21. DENR decided to do away with the “ceremonial burning” after environmental groups said it would send the wrong message that open burning could be acceptable. In a statement, Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon Paje said that he has ordered the Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau (PAWB) to forgo the planned “ceremonial burning.” “I have already instructed the PAWB to forgo the ceremonial burning. But just the same, the confiscated tusks weighing about five tons will be crushed as planned using road rollers,” he said. Paje explained that the DENR originally planned to burn only 20 pieces from the five tons of elephant tusks for at least five minutes using kerosene while the rest would be crushed with road rollers in the June 21 rites at the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center (NAPWC). The use of kerosene, he said, had been recommended by the Environmental Management Bureau. Some 30 clean air advocates, including the Ecowaste Coalition and several environmental lawyers, opposed the “ceremonial burning” of the confiscated elephant tusks through letters sent to the DENR secretary and PAWB director Theresa Mundita Lim. They wrote, “Even if the intent is only to conduct ‘ceremonial burning,’ we remain anxious as this will likely send a confusing message to the general public from the environmental authorities that open burning is acceptable. A photo showing the Environment Secretary setting a pile of tusks on fire may be interpreted as a tacit endorsement that ‘open burning is okay.” More.... | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
t. Is g prime?
False
Let u = 2 - -5. Suppose 12 - u = 5*i. Suppose -5*g + 5*p = -3605, 0 = -3*p - 5 - i. Is g composite?
False
Suppose 6 + 4 = 5*d. Let p(f) = d + 0 - 60*f - 269*f + 38*f. Is p(-1) a prime number?
True
Let h(a) = 3*a**2 + 7*a - 9. Let q = 25 - 29. Let n(p) = 2*p + 15. Let f be n(q). Is h(f) a prime number?
False
Let c = 52 - 72. Let m be 5*86/c*(-20 + 8). Is (m*2)/2 + -1 composite?
False
Is (5 - (-27)/3) + 27371 composite?
True
Suppose 11*o = 236465 + 1319826. Is o a prime number?
True
Is (555661/3)/(115/345) prime?
True
Suppose 82*r - 18231283 = 46*r - 13*r. Is r prime?
True
Let g = -130 - -139. Suppose 0 = d + f - g, 0*f - 5*f + 31 = 3*d. Is 16496/28 - 1/d a composite number?
True
Is (-22)/55 + (-2833326)/(-90) a prime number?
True
Let c = -617 + 616. Is c/(-10) + (-1319148)/(-120) composite?
False
Let u(f) = -29*f + 134. Let b(c) = 14*c - 66. Let g(v) = -7*b(v) - 3*u(v). Is g(-31) prime?
True
Suppose -2*r + 63 - 55 = 0. Suppose r*i + 3*u = 20162, -2*i + 0*u + 4*u + 10070 = 0. Is i a composite number?
False
Suppose 2*o + 206917 = 5*d, 54 = -d - 3*o + 41434. Is d prime?
False
Suppose -27*h + 105*h = h + 4412639. Is h prime?
False
Let l(i) = i**2 + 17*i + 3. Let a be l(-17). Suppose a*h = 26 + 1. Suppose h - 2539 = -10*f. Is f a prime number?
False
Suppose 0 = 5*v + 3*h - 1166427 - 864563, -4*v - 3*h = -1624792. Suppose -40*z + v = -6*z. Is z prime?
False
Is ((-49111385)/(-68))/5*4 a prime number?
True
Suppose -227*z - 87*z = -37*z - 23445557. Is z composite?
True
Let y be 10/20 - (-6)/4. Let i be (1/y - 2)*2*1. Let w(h) = -8*h**3 + 8*h**2 + 14*h + 5. Is w(i) a composite number?
False
Let a = 75998 - -1151. Is a a composite number?
True
Suppose -2*b + 118256 = -2*x, 38*b + 295661 = 43*b + 2*x. Is b prime?
False
Suppose 0 = 5*d - 5*h - 15, 5*d + 3*h = 7*h + 18. Let j(r) = 534*r + 145. Is j(d) a composite number?
True
Let l be (-80)/(-12)*2*(-6)/(-16). Is (0 - 4) + l/(25/69435) a prime number?
True
Suppose -38988 = -77*i + 649469. Is i a prime number?
True
Let f(i) = 394*i**3 + 2*i**2 + 5*i + 2. Let w be f(-1). Suppose -2*r = 4*x - 4738, 974 + 3734 = 4*x - 4*r. Let j = w + x. Is j prime?
True
Suppose -15225 = -4*k - 2253. Let i = k + 3046. Is i a composite number?
True
Let a = 26 + -24. Suppose -q - a*q - i = -5087, 0 = 2*i - 4. Suppose 0 = -6*p + 11*p - q. Is p a prime number?
False
Suppose 4*w - 16 = -4*b, -b = 5*w + 13 - 45. Suppose 0 = w*h - 14667 + 4328. Is h a composite number?
True
Let n = 2841905 + -988996. Is n prime?
True
Is (-33)/(-462) - 51960753/(-126) a composite number?
False
Let a = -234993 + 365074. Is a a prime number?
False
Let c(v) = 6*v**3 - 90*v**2 + 194*v - 5. Is c(21) prime?
False
Suppose 54*z + 131*z - 15734065 = 0. Is z prime?
True
Suppose 1962628 = 18*r - 1234586. Is r composite?
False
Let h be 46/((-1)/(-2 + 0)). Suppose -5*x + 4*c + h = 0, 2*x - 4*c = -0*x + 32. Let m(g) = 33*g + 41. Is m(x) a composite number?
False
Let d be (-1 - -2)*-2*87/(-58). Let q(v) = -d - 2*v + 6*v**2 - 5 + 10 - 3. Is q(6) prime?
False
Let w(u) = 11*u - 7. Let d(c) = 10*c - 6. Let k(z) = 7*d(z) - 6*w(z). Let t be k(-3). Is 3 + 32/t - (-482)/3 a composite number?
True
Is (-6)/36 + 961516/72*3 composite?
False
Let w(d) = -2981*d + 14. Let z be w(-4). Suppose o = -2*o + 4*y + z, -3*o - 2*y = -11914. Suppose -5*g + o = -1001. Is g prime?
False
Let f(r) be the second derivative of 189*r**4/2 - r**3/3 + 7*r**2/2 - 59*r + 2. Is f(-2) a composite number?
False
Suppose 220*v - 562222 = -9646 + 3195124. Is v composite?
True
Suppose 4*m - 3*q = -19581 + 73407, 5*m - 2*q - 67286 = 0. Suppose 0 = -9*p + m + 19905. Is p a prime number?
False
Suppose -39*n - 19*n + 846050 = -354492. Is n composite?
True
Let q(m) = 13*m**2 + 117*m + 327. Is q(44) a composite number?
False
Suppose -2*g - 2*g - l + 10 = 0, 0 = 2*g + 3*l. Suppose g*b = -b + 1860. Suppose 8*n - b + 97 = 0. Is n composite?
True
Let u(l) = 9*l**2 + 117*l + 22. Let t be u(-14). Let f = -10 + 7. Let n = t + f. Is n a prime number?
False
Suppose -z = -3*j, -4*j + j + 3*z = 6. Let i be -1 - -4 - (2 + j + -5). Suppose -8*v = -i*v - 741. Is v a composite number?
True
Let b be 3*(-1)/3*-2. Suppose -b*t = y - t - 1397, -2*y + 2*t + 2802 = 0. Is y prime?
True
Let r(k) = 3*k + 185 - 6*k**2 + 212*k**3 - 55 - 64 - 64 + 0*k. Is r(1) prime?
True
Let p(b) = -40*b**3 + 4*b**2 - 2*b + 1. Let y be p(2). Let k = 316 - y. Is k a prime number?
False
Let d = 62 + -49. Let i = d + -9. Suppose 0 = 3*v + z - 2*z - 289, i*v + 3*z = 394. Is v prime?
True
Let s be 1458/(-10) - 12/60. Let c = 83 + s. Let u = c + 96. Is u prime?
False
Let t(r) be the third derivative of -17*r**7/5040 - r**6/24 + 11*r**5/60 + 29*r**2. Let a(u) be the third derivative of t(u). Is a(-13) a composite number?
False
Let f(g) = -g**3 - 3*g**2 + 3*g. Let a be f(-4). Suppose l - 3*u - 793 = 0, 4*l - u - 3142 = -a*u. Is l a prime number?
True
Let h(v) be the second derivative of v**3/6 + 13*v**2/2 - 7*v. Let o be h(-13). Suppose o = -5*i + l + 2*l + 1018, -3*i = -2*l - 611. Is i a composite number?
True
Suppose -4*n + 61572 = u, -14*n = -15*n - 4*u + 15408. Let y = -6973 + n. Is y prime?
True
Let r(s) = 3 - 1328*s + 0 + 1502*s + 2 + 1902*s. Is r(6) a prime number?
False
Let v be 3/((-6)/(-10)) - 4/(-2). Suppose v*s - 3408 = s. Suppose -14*g - s = -18*g. Is g a prime number?
False
Suppose 0*o + 3*o = 4*d + 5, -3*d + 5*o - 12 = 0. Suppose d = -2*a - 1. Is (-106)/a*(-3 + (-7)/(-2)) prime?
True
Let b(j) = -j**3 - 19*j**2 + 20*j + 19. Let v be b(-20). Suppose v = -9*i + 55. Suppose 2*q - w - 508 = -0*q, q - i*w = 261. Is q a prime number?
False
Let b = 23411 - -26328. Is b composite?
False
Suppose -78*v - 51*v + 4827567 = 0. Is v prime?
True
Suppose -499*b + 616*b - 19963359 = 0. Is b a prime number?
True
Let s(b) = 280*b + 891. Is s(71) prime?
True
Let s(h) = 1064*h - 4317. Is s(89) prime?
True
Suppose -354962 = -3*z - 22*t + 23*t, 2*z - 236756 = 15*t. Is z prime?
False
Is -6*(-14)/252*988329 composite?
True
Let j = 117 - 77. Is 873/6 + j/(-16) a prime number?
False
Let q(r) = 12*r + 75. Let x be q(-2). Suppose -5234 = -x*s + 50*s. Is s composite?
True
Let q = 1486554 + 1402373. Is q a composite number?
True
Is (-2)/(-5) + (1870712/20 - -17) a composite number?
False
Suppose -4*g - 4 = 0, g - 5*g = 3*q - 35. Is 111267/q - (-5 + -3) prime?
False
Suppose 6*t - 3*t - 4*f + 4 = 0, -t - 8 = -3*f. Suppose 4*h - 230 = 2*y, -t*y = y + h + 520. Is ((3704/3)/4)/((-10)/y) a composite number?
True
Suppose 2*s - 49357 = -4*p + 18159, -2*p = -s + 33758. Suppose -7*r = -5*r - s. Is r composite?
False
Suppose 0 = 20*x - 9*x - 110. Suppose x*t - 3*t = 11998. Is t a prime number?
False
Is (-219041)/(-11) - (136/1122)/((-2)/3) a prime number?
True
Let t = 5650 + -3669. Suppose -309 = -5*o + t. Is o a composite number?
True
Is (24 - 10616404)/10*(-1)/2 prime?
False
Suppose 99 = -2*n + 117. Suppose -1433 = -3*h + 4*g + 8135, 5*h = 3*g + 15943. Suppose -h = n*d - 13*d. Is d a prime number?
True
Let v(j) = j**3 - j**2 - 10*j + 14. Suppose b = -3*a + 9, -5*a - 4*b + 6*b = -15. Let r be v(a). Suppose 0 = r*g - 4*u - 6762, 3*g - 10135 = u + u. Is g prime?
False
Let d = -1817 + 2502. Is d a prime number?
False
Let p = -11 + 2. Suppose -25*d = -43*d - 324. Is (-8080)/d - 1/p a prime number?
True
Let j = -22 + 37. Let w(y) = 184*y - 38. Is w(j) a prime number?
False
Is ((-8)/40)/(32/(-25067360)) a prime number?
True
Suppose 72945 = 5*s - 18*o + 23*o, 29172 = 2*s + 5*o. Is s a prime number?
True
Let h(w) = -2*w**3 + 50*w**2 + 11*w - 48. Let c(m) = -m**3 - 2*m**2 + 22*m + 9. Let r be c(-6). Is h(r) a prime number?
False
Suppose -4*i + 67148 = 3*p, -3*i + 4*p + 38493 = -11868. Is i a prime number?
True
Suppose 9 - 49 = -5*a. Let m be ((12/a - 0) + -3)*-2. Suppose 2*t + 3*z - 1607 = 0, 4*t + m*z - 4004 = -t. Is t composite?
True
Let h(c) = -6*c - 208. Let u be h(-35). Suppose 3*n = -5*x + 57067, 4*x = u*n + 52688 - 7052. Is x a prime number?
True
Let z be (-2)/11 - (-6)/33. Let n(u) = z - 119*u + 2878*u + 2. Is n(1) a prime number?
False
Suppose -u + 335931 - 65829 = -s, 3*u - s - 810296 = 0. Is u composite?
False
Suppose -d - 21*m + 431725 = -19*m, -2*d - 5*m = -863449. Is d a prime number?
False
Let c(b) = 20*b - 1175. Let r be c(0). Let x = 42 + 9. Let k = x - r. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Q:
Sharepoint 2010 grab SIP address from AD?
I would like to have the 'SIP Address' (eg. sip:myname.companyname.com) field automatically filled in so we can use Portal's 'presence' functionality - as far as I can see we have no dedicated LDAP attribute for this information.
I would be very grateful of some advice on how to get this data into SharePoint 2010?
A:
There is a hidden list called SiteUserInfoList on each web, use it to get sip.
private string GetSipAddress(SPUser user, SPWeb web)
{
web = web ?? SPContext.Current.Web;
var userItem = web.SiteUserInfoList.GetItemById(user.ID);
string sip = string.Empty;
if (userItem != null)
{
var sipAddress = userItem["SipAddress"];
if (sipAddress != null)
{
sip = sipAddress.ToString().Replace("sip:", "");
}
}
return sip;
}
There is a post about it.
| null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Lessons learned from the management of complex intra-articular fractures at the base of the middle phalanges of fingers.
The use of dynamic traction splintage is established in the treatment of complex intra-articular phalangeal fractures. Several different systems have been used and we report our experience with one of these, the Pins and Rubber Traction System. A cohort of 14 patients with complex intra-articular fractures at the base of the middle phalanges of the fingers were treated and assessed prospectively over a 2.5-year period (mean, 20 months; range, 7-28 months). The mean active range of motion regained, at the proximal interphalangeal joint, was 74 degrees (range, 0-100 degrees ). The mean total active motion of the injured digit was 196 degrees (range, 40-275 degrees ). Refinements in the regime are suggested as a result of this investigation. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
SINGLE PHASE FILTERS
The range of single phase filters BLA ETECH presents different possibilities in terms of attenuation. This permit to our customers to choose the correct solution for every application the different series cover a current range from 1 to 100 A with voltages up to 250 Vac. We also have single-phase filter available up to 440 Vac. For all models you can have a dedicated solution for medical applications with leakage currents suitable for this application. The connections available on this product line are different: tabs, terminals, cables and screws according to the rated current value, with the possibility of having standard with DIN rail mounting in addition to traditional solutions.
Please click on a product below to view its data sheet.
BL2010 (UL Listed)
General Purpose Single Phase EMI Filter upto 60A
BL2020 (UL Listed)
General Purpose Single Phase EMI Filter upto 60A
BL2030 (UL Listed)
General EMI Filter with High Attention Performance upto 30A
BL2060 (UL Listed)
Multi Stage General Purpose EMI Filter upto 30A
BL2070 (UL Listed)
Multi Stage Performance EMI Filter upto 36A
BL2080 (UL Listed)
Multi Stage Performance EMI Filter upto 16A
BL2090 (UL Listed)
Multi Stage Performance EMI Filter upto 16A
BLAYL2-XX-F/S
Single Phase, Dual Stage, Very High Performance, General Purpose (5 to 20 A)
BLAY11-XXX-F
Single Phase, Single Stage, Very High Performance, General Purpose (1 to 10 A)
BLAF10-XXX-F/S
Dual Stage, Very High Attenuation Performance, General Purpose (1 to 30 A)
BLASB010-XXX-F/S
Single Stage, Very Good Performance, General Purpose (1 to 60 A)
BLAF01-XXX-F/S
Single Stage, Very High Attenuation Performance, General Purpose (1 to 30 A)
BLAEG00-XXX-F/S
Single Phase, Differential Mode, Very High Performance, Multi Purpose (1 to 50 A)
BLAE010-XXX-F/S
Single Phase, Single Stage, Very High Performance (1 to 10 A) | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
QA output created by 084
low-order bits: 0
low-order bits: 1
low-order bits: 2
low-order bits: 3
low-order bits: 4
low-order bits: 5
low-order bits: 6
low-order bits: 7
low-order bits: 8
low-order bits: 9
low-order bits: 10
low-order bits: 11
low-order bits: 12
low-order bits: 13
low-order bits: 14
low-order bits: 15
| null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Mutation profile of differentiated thyroid tumours in an Australian urban population.
The majority of differentiated thyroid cancers are characterised by one of several point mutations or gene rearrangements. Limited data are available on the prevalence and clinical correlations of these mutations in the Australian population. The aim of the present study was to characterise the mutation profile of differentiated thyroid tumours in the local population. The study involved 148 patients with differentiated thyroid cancer. The following tumours were examined: 109 papillary carcinomas (PTC), 27 follicular carcinomas (FC) and 12 Hurthle cell carcinomas (HCC). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed for BRAF and RAS mutations (RNA and DNA) as well as for RET/PTC rearrangements and PAX8-PPARγ translocations (RNA). Clinicopathological parameters and outcome data were analysed according to BRAFV600E status in PTC and RAS mutation status in FC. BRAFV600E was identified in 74/109 (68%) PTC. BRAFV600E was not significantly correlated with clinicopathological features of aggressive disease. At a median follow up of 48 months, there was no significant difference between BRAFV600E and wild-type BRAF PTC with respect to the rates of nodal recurrence, distant metastases or disease-specific death. In FC, RAS mutations (five NRAS and three HRAS) were present in 8/27 (30%) tumours. RAS mutation was significantly associated with widely invasive histology (P = 0.01) and distant metastases (P = 0.01) on follow up. In the present study, BRAF mutation was not associated with negative prognostic indicators or adverse outcomes in PTC. RAS mutation was positively correlated with aggressive features in FC suggesting potential prognostic utility, although confirmation is required from larger studies. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
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Tag Archives: 1947
The Rookie of the Year award was first handed out in 1947 to Jackie Robinson, after he broke baseball’s color barrier and went on to have a great first season of what would become a Hall of Fame career. After the award was given out to a single player again 1948, it expanded in 1949 to include a player from each league, and has been that way ever since.
Renamed the Jackie Robinson Rookie of the Year award in 1987, fourteen players who have won the award have gone on to the Hall of Fame, up until this point, of the 128 players to win it — several of those players are still active, however.
Voting for the award is fairly straightforward.
Two writers from each city of both the American League and National League make up the Baseball Writers’ Association of America (BBWAA) voters for the Rookie of the Year award, making a total of thirty voters for each league (fifteen teams, with two voters per city). A first place vote earns a player five points, a second place vote gets three points, with a third place vote receiving one point. Once added up, the player with the highest overall total wins.
The 2013 Major League Baseball Rookie of the Year award winners for both the American League and National League were announced Monday night on MLB Network. Here are the winners, along with my thoughts on each:
AMERICAN LEAGUE ROOKIE OF THE YEAR
Original Pick: Wil Myers
Finalists: Wil Myers, Chris Archer and Jose Iglesias
Winner: Wil Myers
Thoughts On Wil Myers Winning
It came as no surprise to myself or anyone else around the baseball world that Wil Myers won the 2013 American League Rookie of the Year award. Picking up 23 out of the 30 first-place votes, Myers’ 131 points overall led him to a relatively easy win over his competition in Jose Iglesias, who picked up 80 points, and Chris Archer, with his 35 points.
Though all of the candidates had great inaugural seasons, Wil Myers was the best choice and the most deserving for Rookie of the Year. After beginning the season at Triple-A, struggling for a bit of time, Myers was called up to the Majors in June, never looking back.
Batting .293 with 13 home runs and 53 RBI’s in just 88 games played, Myers becomes the third player in Rays’ franchise history to win the Rookie of the Year award; joining Evan Longoria, from 2008, and Jeremy Hellickson, who won back in 2011.
Wil Myers will undoubtedly be a star player for the Rays for many years to come.
Although Shelby Miller had a great season, it came down to Jose Fernandez and Yasiel Puig, in the minds of many, for 2013 National League Rookie of the Year. It the end, the writers’ selected Jose Fernandez to win the award, doing so in overwhelming fashion. Fernandez received 26 of the 30 first-place votes, getting a total of 142 points, beating out Yasiel Puig’s 95 points and Shelby Miller’s mere 12 points.
I was really shocked by the dominance in which Fernandez won, however, he was very deserving.
Going 12-6 with a 2.19 ERA this past season — 9-0 with a 1.19 ERA in home starts — the original plan was for Fernandez to begin 2013 in Double-A, but a few injuries allowed him to make the roster in April. He excelled in his first start, and made the most of his opportunities this past season, truly placing himself over the other candidates.
Fernandez was with his mom and grandmother when he received the news that he had won the award, and it was an emotional scene. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
A guy gets home, runs into his house, slams the door and says, Honey, pack your bags. I won the lottery!"
The wife says, "Wow! That's great! I'm so happy! Should I pack for the ocean, or should I pack for the mountains?"
He says, "I don't care. Just get out!"
A wife got so mad at her husband she packed his bags and told him to get out. As he walked to the door she yelled, "I hope you die a long, slow, painful death." He turned around and said, "So, you want me to stay?"
At the gates to heaven a new arrival, George noted that there were two paths, one marked Women, and one marked Men. He took the later path and found that it lead to two gates.
The gate on the right had a sign that said: Men who were dominated by their Wives. The sign on the left read: Men who dominated their Wives. The right-hand gate had a long line of men waiting, but there was only one scrawny little fellow at the left-hand gate.
George, before deciding which gate to go to, went over to the scrawny man and asked,
“Why are you at this gate?” the little fellow replied, “I don’t know. My wife just told me
to stand here.”
One day Little Jonnie says to his father:
I want to get married.
Father: Oh, so do you have someone special in your mind?
Johnny: Yes...Grandma
Father: What? There is a problem now; you want to marry my Mother?
Johnny: Why not? You married my mother | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Cortical hyperintensity on proton density-weighted images: An MR sign of cyclosporine-related encephalopathy.
To describe cortical hyperintensities in proton density-weighted images in six patients with presumed cyclosporine-induced neurotoxicity. In six patients with clinical evidence of cyclosporine-related encephalopathy, MR imaging was performed after the onset of symptoms and signs (mean, 24 days after liver transplantation). Five of these patients had serial MR imaging for a period that varied from 2 to 20 months. Along with the imaging studies, the patients' clinical status was evaluated and various laboratory parameters, including blood pressure and levels of cyclosporine, cholesterol, and magnesium, were monitored. In all six patients, initial MR studies showed hyperintensity of several cerebral gyri that was unequivocal only on proton density-weighted images. Although in five patients these signal abnormalities were limited to the cortex, one patient had increased signal in the subjacent white matter as well. In one patient, the images were also remarkable for areas of cortical hyperintensities on T1-weighted images. In another patient, cortical enhancement occurred after administration of gadopentetate dimeglumine, with a normal cortical signal on the precontrast images. The abnormal cortical signal began to fade after cyclosporine reduction, but in two patients it remained visible for at least 20 months. The neurologic symptomatology associated with cyclosporine-induced neurotoxicity included seizures (three patients), speech disorder (three patients), and disturbance of consciousness (three patients). Cyclosporine-induced neurotoxicity occurring in patients after liver transplantation appears to affect the cerebral cortex preferentially. Because its MR equivalent resembles changes resulting from hypoxic injury or cortically centered vasculitis, we suspect the underlying mechanism may be a vascular injury that results in cortical hypoperfusion. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
On Saturday night, there’s no doubt that the Colorado Rapids were the better team for the first 35 minutes. The atmosphere around Dick’s Sporting Goods Park for this home opener couldn’t have been better. The build-up that led to Dominique Badji’s goal (5’) and then Joe Mason’s cool customer goal (8’) gave not only the Rapids a comfortable 2-0 lead, but also gave the supporters a comfort level that, frankly, none should ever have.
As Abbie noted in the Game Recap, Badji made a rather telling comment:
I think we stuck to the game plan for about 30 minutes and then kind of just threw it out the window, got a little complacent, got comfortable after being two goals up, you know, that’ll get you.
Old habits die hard
One of the most difficult aspects related to any organization is changing the culture. And part of changing culture is changing habits. In a book by Charles Duhigg called The Power of Habit, he wrote of the 1996 Tampa Bay Buccaneers and their culture of losing. A coach by the name of Tony Dungy came along and saw his job as not simply trying to get a Super Bowl ring, but trying to change habits of believing in the system, trusting the process, and staying with their role and their plan. It took a while, but Dungy brought a winning culture with winning habits to an organization that hadn’t won anything for two decades.
Badji admitted that the boys in burgundy stuck with Hudson’s plan for 30 minutes. Now, this is not necessarily about the Rapids culture—I believe that’s something supporters struggle with more than players. We’ve addressed before that the Rapids have a virtually new front office, new coaching staff, new tactics, and 12 new players. For these players, many of whom are starting, they have not had the opportunity to succumb to what many supporters have.
But what the players can revert to is bad habits, old habits that, when the stress hits or complacency sets in, anyone could lose focus. Tim Howard had to stand on his head at least three times toward the end of the first half to keep SKC off the board—and that should have tipped off everyone in the building that something would give unless that focus returned.
The way that the Rapids lost focus on those two goals were when the midfielders dragged in failing to stay with the SKC midfielders. Look at the build-up to the first SKC goal (57’):
You see that when the ball came off the post, both Johan Blomberg and Enzo Martinez were caught ball watching, allowing Felipe Gutierrez to score his fourth goal in his fourth game of the year.
The second goal by Diego Rubio (91’) was a heartbreaker:
That pass. That backheel. And you have to tip your hat to that initial ball. But what do we hear from Marcelo Balboa: Who’s marking the SKC players in the box? Those passes from Gutierrez to Gerso to Sheldon to Rubio—you know that Coach Hudson was absolutely apoplectic that at no point did the Rapids defense shut them down and walk away from the home opener with three points.
How to move forward
Sporting Kansas City possessed the ball for the majority of the game (62-38%), which isn’t surprising. That’s SKC being SKC—that, and the Rapids risking a parking the bus mentality to keep the lead. But if you look at the charts, for the first 20 minutes, the Rapids owned the game possession-wise. What steps can be taken to expand this all 90 minutes?
Offensively, the two early goals gave the supporters some good feelings, but consider the Rapids did not have a shot on target after Mason’s goal in the 8th minute. In fact, the Rapids did not have a corner kick all game (while conceding seven). Not to pour it on, but the Rapids only had five crosses all game.
But those first 30 minutes...
Supporters have so many unknowns. Some supporters are so starved for any positive movement that they (I) cling to it like an oasis in the desert, hoping it is not a mirage. Others will take some convincing that things have changed and will hold off on the enthusiasm until some consistency comes about. We all hope that Hudson has a system in place that will produce results, and hopefully those first 30 minutes are an indication of what’s to come. And if this system is what’s needed, the players have to buy in and believe—and not fall back into those bad habits which gave up those two goals.
It must be said
What a great atmosphere at the home opener. Coming into the park was way smoother than in years past. The artwork, the LED lights around the pitch, the flags in each section, the towels waving in the aftermath of both goals—maybe the supporters (we supporters) just missed being at the park to cheer on the Rapids through thick and thin. And we hope that 2018 is a whole lot thicker than in past seasons.
But let’s keep that going next Saturday, March 31 at 7:00 pm as our Rapids take on the Philadelphia Union who have a 1-0-1 (W-L-T) record in the East. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Has been working for me quite a while. This file is frequently modified by spywares or viruses and therefore, it needs to be checked through the method below. How to fix GAME GUARD errors Started by Sedbona, Sep 17 2010 10:23 AM Please log in to reply 1 reply to this topic #1 Sedbona Posted 17 September 2010 - It's rather frustrating :/ Last edited by Yusumi; 29-11-2014, 11:28 PM. http://themedemo.net/gameguard-error/nprotect-gameguard-error-114-how-to-fix-it.html
Many security programs exist, and therefore, we suggest you try running the game again after adjusting every option one by one. I can't open flyff, and random errors appear (114 is just one of them, but yeah, most common). When connection to the GameGuard update server is not possible due to external firewalls. - Most public places and companies use firewalls. Collision with other programs 5.
If that don't work then the GameGuard folder or if the don't work the whole flyff folder in your scanner. Akmalnoobies BS 2.251 προβολές22 2:02 BlackShot Autoclose/Crash Problem Solved - Διάρκεια: 5:37. So what kind of problems we may encounter?1. Gameguard Error 110 Any1 wanna join?
Delete the current gameguard folder and either let the launcher download a fresh copy, or replace it with one that works (from someone else).Error 500 - Detection of Program that makes Nprotect Gameguard Download However, I also run AVG which is what Thatguyyoulove also runs. Zigli Wigli 8.620 προβολές13 5:37 {TUTORIAL} to change BlackShot Blood Colour - Διάρκεια: 2:15. Can cause frequent dc's and lead to a permanent ban since it's seen as speedhacking.
Windows Security update - Certain windows security updates tend to cause collisions with various security programs. Blackshot Gameguard Error 114 Comment Cancel Post XrageX Novice Join Date: Feb 2012 Posts: 3 #5 26-11-2014, 07:53 PM Same thing happening to me right now. In some cases, the problem could be solved by following step 1, but sometimes it may not be solved even after following step 1 and step 2. In some cases, the problem could be solved by following step 1, but sometimes it may not be solved even after following step 1 and step 2.
Nprotect Gameguard Download
Graphic card driver and DirectX problem http://www.gameguard.co.kr/eng/FAQ_114.htm PS. In general, it is indicating that some software on your PC is preventing NProtect from loading. Elsword Gameguard Error 114 Internet connection problem. - If your internet connection gets disconnected frequently, please check if you need any sort of authentication process before connecting to the internet. 4. Gameguard Error 114 Fix Windows 7 It is not necessary to follow all the steps below, and therefore, try running the game again if step 1 has been followed and check whether the problem has been solved.
If internet connection is restricted due to security programs(firewall), GameGuard may not be able to update. - Please turn off unnecessary options in your security program while running GameGuard. 2. have a peek at these guys Check whether proxy server is on and if it is, uncheck the option : [Use a proxy server for your LAN ]5. Working... Genom att klicka eller navigera på webbplatsen godkänner du att vi använder cookies för att samla information på och utanför Facebook. Gameguard Error 115
asapau02, May 23, 2010 asapau02, May 23, 2010 #15 7542261 Messages: 8 Likes Received: 0 Joined: Dec 31, 2009 i have W7 and i have the same proplem can any one I haven't changed anything since yesterday and I've booted my pc a few times to see if it started improperly. Edited by Sedbona, 17 September 2010 - 10:27 AM. Gameguard Error 114 Ran Online I do hope it will work for you .
Please check your firewall or anti-virus settings and allow GameGuard to patch it's files.Error 350 - GameGuard has been cancelled by the computer's user. peaceoneday Messages: 27 Likes Received: 0 Joined: Mar 24, 2008 I tried all the methods suggested by the Gameguard site and random forums found on google but none have worked. DIABO Blackshot 3.082 προβολές64 1:39 Fixed Lagging or Delay [BlackShot] *Versi Malay* - Διάρκεια: 2:02. this content You may wish to make sure your virus scanning program is up-to-date and functioning properly, and that you do not have too many other open programs.Solution 1.Disable any security software temporarily
Zigli Wigli 3.349 προβολές12 9:59 [KyZz @Blackshot] 1 Day Ninja #4 [Archive] - Διάρκεια: 16:46. we made 53.596 προβολές 3:19 Digimon Master Online New Game Guard BreakDown xD. - Διάρκεια: 1:57. Please :( Page Title Module Move Remove Collapse X Conversation Detail Module Collapse Posts Latest Activity Search Page of 1 Filter Time All Time Today Last Week Last Month Show All You can solve this problem by rebooting your PC. - If the game operates normally after rebooting but does not when run again, please try the method below. 2.
I have a feeling it may be gameguard or the new flyff update. Check the settings of those firewalls or ask the administrator of the network about them.3. hahaIt seems that Tri-Force is in vacantion. Click the link below to get a 50% discount of Bitdefender ONLY for GameGuard customers.
This situation sucks. Graphic card driver and DirectX problem 1. Last time I played was like a month or so ago. Since than a number of errors has been added. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Moving toward evidence-based practice.
"Evidence-based practice" involves applying the best available evidence to the care of individuals. Explicit, systematic methods have developed for determining what is the best available evidence. However, often even the highest-level evidence is not thoroughly or effectively used in practice, even if it is widely known. We must rigorously and critically analyze study results to understand their strengths, limitations, and generalizability, and bear in mind that our knowledge will evolve and thereby change our practice. The clinical question is not always how to apply the evidence but whether the available evidence applies to a particular patient. We should always ask whether the right provider is doing the right thing for the right patient at the right time in the right setting with the right resources. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Antimicrobial and hemolytic activities of crabrolin, a 13-residue peptide from the venom of the European hornet, Vespa crabro, and its analogs.
The venom of insects like bee, hornet and wasp contain peptides that exhibit potent biological activities. Many of these peptides are composed of 13-26 residues and are thus accessible through chemical synthesis as well as amenable to studies directed toward structure-function correlations. In this report, we describe antibacterial and hemolytic activities of crabrolin: FLPLILRKIVTAL-NH2, a 13-residue-peptide present in the venom of the hornet Vespa crabro and related peptides. The analogs were chosen so that the role of proline and positively charged amino acids in modulating biological activities could be evaluated. Our results indicate that, although helical conformation is necessary for hemolytic activity, it is not a prerequisite for antibacterial activity. Appropriately positioned, charged and hydrophobic residues and overall hydrophobicity appear to determine antibacterial activity. The discovery of a large number of host-defense peptides in a variety of species in recent years offers a large repertoire of molecules that can be "engineered" based on biophysical principles to yield molecules with specific activities. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Majors & Minors
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Find a specific program, explore your options, or custom design a major that is tailored to fit your individual needs.
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B.A. in Physics
The physics major is designed to develop competence in fundamental areas of classical and modern physics. Courses start with Newtonian physics, and introduce quantum ideas and Einstein’s relativity later. Scientific experimentation in the laboratory complements the theoretical principles in lecture presentations. Problem solving and computational skills are emphasized. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Safety of human blood products: inactivation of retroviruses by heat treatment at 60 degrees C.
Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) can be transferred to patients by blood transfusions or human blood preparations, such as cryoprecipitates or factor VIII concentrates. Retroviruses have been discussed as infectious AIDS agents and more recently human T-lymphotropic retroviruses designated as HTLV type III and LAV (lymphadenopathy-associated virus) have been isolated from AIDS patients. Whether heat treatment at 60 degrees C (pasteurization) of liquid human plasma protein preparations inactivates retroviruses was therefore investigated. Pasteurization had already been included in the routine manufacturing process of human plasma protein preparations in order to guarantee safety with regard to hepatitis B. Since high titer preparations of human retroviruses were not available, heat inactivation was studied using Rous sarcoma virus added to the various plasma protein preparations tested. This retrovirus which was obtained in preparations of 6.0 log10 FFU/ml was shown to be at least as heat stable as two mammalian retroviruses studied, i.e., feline and simian sarcoma virus. In all of eight different plasma protein preparations tested, Rous sarcoma virus was completely inactivated after a heat treatment lasting no longer than 4 hr. It is thus concluded that pasteurization of liquid plasma protein preparations at 60 degrees C over a period of 10 hr must confer safety to these products with respect to AIDS, provided that the AIDS agents are retroviruses of comparable heat stability as Rous sarcoma virus and the mammalian retroviruses tested. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Eccrine porocarcinoma of the face.
Eccrine porocarcinoma is a rare tumor of the skin. We report a case on the chin that was successfully treated with Mohs surgery. In our review of the world's literature 105 cases were compiled. The tumor most often occurs in the elderly and affects men more frequently than women. It may develop from a preexisting benign poroma and may also appear as a verrucous or nodular, ulcerative growth. Approximately 50% of the tumors occur on the lower extremities; the leg is the most common site. Microscopically the tumor demonstrates both intraepidermal and dermal invasion and is capable of forming satellite lesions and in-transit metastases when lymphatic vessels are invaded. The local recurrence and regional metastatic rates are both approximately 20%. Distant metastasis occurs in 12% of cases. The mortality rate is more than 65% when regional nodes are involved. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Q:
Let G be a group of order 100 that has a subgroup H of order 25. Prove that every element of G of order 5 is in H.
I know that I have to use cosets, but I'm shaky on understanding cosets as it is. I was thinking of using the fact that G has a unique subgroup of order 25, but I don't see how that could work with cosets.
Anyone have any ideas on how to get started?
A:
Let $H$ be the subgroup of $G$ of order $25$, and het $g$ be an element of order $5$ in $G$.
Consider the cosets: $$1H,gH,g^2H,g^3H,g^4H$$
These can't be disjoint, since that would mean $125$ distinct elements of $G$.
So $g^iH=g^jH$ for some $0\leq i <j<5$. Then $g^{j-i}H=H$, or $g^{k}\in H$ for some $1\leq k<5$. Now show that $g\in H$ by finding $m$ so that $g=(g^k)^m$.
| null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
THE SENATE
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
The Senate met at 2 p.m., the Speaker in the chair.
Prayers.
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, before we begin I would like to draw your attention to the presence in the gallery of a delegation from the Hellenic Republic, led by His Excellency Vangelis Meimarakis, Speaker of the Hellenic Parliament, who is accompanied by his gracious wife and daughter and the distinguished Ambassador of the Hellenic Republic to Canada.
On behalf of all honourable senators, I welcome you to the Senate of Canada.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
Hon. Mac Harb: Honourable senators, earlier today, pursuant to rule 13-4(4), I gave written notice that I would raise a question of privilege later this day. I now give oral notice that I will raise a question of privilege regarding outside interference in Senate internal affairs and the resulting damage to the reputation and integrity of the Senate.
I am ready to move a motion to send this matter to a committee in accordance with rule 13-7(1) if His Honour decides there is a prima facie question of privilege that warrants study.
Hon. Donald H. Oliver: Honourable senators, I rise today to share some exciting news. One month ago the Black Business Initiative, called BBI, partnered with Dalhousie University to launch a new $10,000 renewable scholarship for Black students of the Corporate Residency MBA at the Rowe School of Business in Halifax.
This is a rigorous, innovative and unique 22-month professional development in business course. Permit me to explain why this is so significant. This initiative promotes and enhances the upward mobility of post-secondary students and those who can become our country's future business leaders. The BBI is a province-wide business development initiative committed to fostering the growth of businesses owned by the Nova Scotia Black community. It places priority on educating Black business owners in the operation of their business, from marketing to budgeting to securing funding. It does outstanding work. Its partnership with Dalhousie's Rowe School of Business is a natural fit.
Scholarship applicants must be residents of the province for at least 24 months and display academic excellence, strong citizenship and character and a desire to make a meaningful contribution to the community.
Michael Wyse, CEO of the BBI and a graduate of the Dalhousie University MBA program, said:
We are looking for innovative, motivated, and talented Black Nova Scotians that have the drive to excel in this program. The BBI is very pleased to provide support to Black Nova Scotians wishing to continue their education in this prestigious graduate program.
Honourable senators, this new scholarship dedicated to our brightest African Nova Scotian youth leaders reiterates Dalhousie University's commitment to diversity and equality, and indeed Dalhousie was once again named one of Canada's best diversity employers this year.
Peggy Cunningham, Dean of the Faculty of Management, hopes this new partnership with the BBI will create special opportunities for Black Nova Scotians. She hopes it will also demonstrate Dalhousie's overall commitment to IDEAS, which stands for innovation, diversity, ethics, action and sustainability.
This is not the first time Dalhousie has created scholarships aimed at increasing diversity and helping Black youth pursue their higher education and overcome systemic barriers and financial difficulties. There are other scholarships for Black students at Dalhousie University. I think of, for instance, the $15,000 Black and First Nations Graduate Entrance Scholarships; the Dr. Calvin W. Ruck Scholarship in social work, in honour of our former Senate colleague; the Jeff D. & Martha Edwards Scholarship for Black Canadian & Bermudian Students; and, I am proud to mention, the Senator Donald Oliver bursary for Black Atlantic Canadians.
Honourable senators, Allan Shaw, adviser to the Corporate Residency MBA program, believes that this new BBI-funded scholarship will help to ensure that more Black Nova Scotians can prepare themselves for leadership roles in the community. Indeed, the new scholarship fulfills the BBI's mandate to enhance the educational future of Nova Scotia youth, support the future leaders of tomorrow and ensure community and business development.
It is a great initiative, and I commend the BBI and Dalhousie University for their ongoing commitment to the Black community.
Hon. Joseph A. Day: Honourable senators, in the past fortnight Canada has lost two of its greatest print media pioneers: Neil Reynolds and Peter Worthington.
Born in Kingston in 1940, Neil Reynolds began his career in media at a young age as a newspaper delivery boy, delivering the Kingston Whig-Standard to people in the Kingston area. This path would see him become editor-in-chief of that very newspaper, along with several other major Canadian newspapers.
As a resident of Saint John, New Brunswick, I particularly remember his stint as editor, and later as editor/publisher of the Telegraph-Journal and the Brunswick News in the late 20th century. Here he turned that publication on its head and can be credited with helping it become the highly respected publication it is today.
Neil Reynolds was a true gentleman. He did not shy away from stirring the pot in his writings. He was a fierce libertarian and had a strong belief in personal freedoms, including freedom of speech and, by extension, freedom of the press. For a brief time in the 1980s, he stepped away from reporting in journalism to become the first full-time national leader of the Libertarian Party. He was unsuccessful, thank goodness, and returned to journalism.
(1410)
Neil died Sunday, May 19, at his Ottawa home after a battle with cancer. He was 72 years old.
Peter Worthington was cut from a similar cloth. The son of an army general, born in an army camp in Winnipeg's Fort Osborne Barracks in 1927, his toughness and hard-headedness were almost preordained.
Fearless by nature, he would escape his adolescence by running away and attempting to join the Merchant Navy at the age of 15, but was quickly turned away due to his age. By 17 years of age, his mother was prepared to sign the consent forms to allow him to join the Navy in 1944. By 18 he would become the youngest and, in his own words, the least competent sub-lieutenant in the Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve. A few years later he served in the Korean War.
Mr. Worthington would go on to become a respected and tenacious journalist and help create the Sun Media chain from scratch.
Peter Worthington, too, had a brief political career running as an independent in the Toronto riding of Broadview-Greenwood in 1982. He, as well, was unsuccessful in that campaign and returned to journalism.
It was as a result of his involvement in the Korean War through which I had the honour of meeting Mr. Worthington during a pilgrimage to Korea in 2003 in recognition of the Korean War's fiftieth anniversary.
I had the honour of attending Mr. Worthington's funeral with hundreds of his acquaintances, friends and families. He passed away on May 12 at the age of 86.
To the families of Peter Worthington and Neil Reynolds, we offer our sincere condolences and our thanks for sharing with us two such capable men of independent spirit. Both of these men were talented, skilled journalists who were not afraid to try different things. They brought a dignity to the newspaper business that is hard to match, and those pursuing a career in journalism would be smart to do the best they can to emulate those fine gentlemen.
Hon. Yonah Martin: Honourable senators, during the special Year of the Korean War Veteran we commemorate the sixtieth anniversary of the signing of the armistice and honour all those who served in Korea.
[Translation]
Today I rise to pay tribute to a hero, Lieutenant Peter John Vickers Worthington, who died on May 13, 2013. He cofounded and was a columnist for the Toronto Sun. He was a veteran of World War II and the Korean War and a proud member of the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry.
[English]
Peter was a veteran journalist who always had a great story to tell about one of his many adventures. Peter love of adventure began at a very early age, inspired largely by his father, a veteran of two Central American wars and of World War I, whose colourful and adventure-filled life began as a 10-year-old orphan.
[Translation]
When Peter was a child, he envied his father's adventure-filled life so much that he left home at 15 to join the army. At 18, he became the youngest sub-lieutenant in the Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve.
[English]
In 1950, Peter served in Korea as a platoon commander, then as battalion intelligence officer in the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry. When the war came to an end, Peter was ready for his next adventure. He studied journalism at Carleton University and upon graduation was hired by the Toronto Telegram as a reporter.
Shortly after, the Soviet Union invaded Hungary and the Suez war erupted. When the United Nations Emergency Force was authorized to go to Gaza, Peter asked to be sent to report the story first-hand. He was so determined to do this that he even offered to take a vacation and pay for his own way there. Such was Peter's absolute dedication to every mission.
Peter was 77 years old when he dropped out of the Afghan sky in a C-130 Hercules transport in 2004, becoming by far the oldest Canadian journalist to embed himself with the troops in South Asia. Suffice it to say, Peter witnessed and reported on more fighting than almost any other Canadian reporter of his generation. In his final Toronto Sun column, published the day after his death, he wrote:
... I covered every major war, crisis or revolution in the world. I was reluctant to take holidays for fear of missing a foreign crisis.
[Translation]
Peter was a kind-hearted, courageous and passionate man who will be mourned by his wife Yvonne, his family, his journalist friends and his fellow Korean War veterans.
[English]
Bill Black, President of KVA Unit 7 in Ottawa who attended Peter's funeral with our colleague Senator Day on May 22, sent the following:
It was a most memorable event. If I did not know the person whose life was being celebrated I would surely [have] thought he was of royalty. In a way I suppose he was because of the interestingly full life, spent in putting himself quite often in dangerous situations. Also, he was renowned for helping the underdog, including providing assistance to many veterans over many years. If you look at all the things he accomplished over a period of his seventy years of adult life I would venture to say he crammed two lifetimes into those seventy years.... With such pomp and grandeur [there was] an aura of being in the presence of someone who was much more than an ordinary Canadian.
I also wish to acknowledge the tireless effort of another veteran, Vince Courtenay, who was asked by the family to coordinate all the military details for the funeral.
[Translation]
Peter Worthington was and will remain a true hero who inspired all those who had the privilege of knowing him.
[English]
May he rest in peace.
Hon. Mobina S. B. Jaffer: Honourable senators, last Thursday Senator Segal and I heard former United Nations Secretary-General and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Kofi Annan deliver the Global Centre for Pluralism's second annual pluralism lecture at the Delegation of Ismaili Imamat in Ottawa.
The Global Centre for Pluralism is a place for dialogue about the foundations and benefits of inclusive citizenship. Its mission is to advance respect for diversity as a new global ethic and to inspire leadership for pluralism through knowledge exchange. The idea for the centre originated in the 1990s when His Highness the Aga Khan asked Canadian leaders to explain the success of Canada's approach to diversity. In 2006, His Highness the Aga Khan and the Government of Canada formed a partnership to launch the Global Centre for Pluralism, a private not-for-profit institution founded in Canada with a global mission to serve the world.
In his remarks last Thursday, His Highness the Aga Khan said:
... pluralism requires constant dialogue, a readiness to compromise, and an understanding that pluralism is not an end in itself, but a continuous process. The Global Centre for Pluralism... was inspired in part by Canada's experience as a highly diverse society. We want the Centre to be a place where we can all learn from one another about the challenges of diversity — and where we can share the lessons of successful pluralism. And on evenings like this, we also help realize the Centre's potential as a destination for dialogue, a place where we can exchange ideas with true champions of global pluralism, like Kofi Annan.
During his lecture, Kofi Annan argued:
... whatever our background, what unites us is far greater than what divides us.... We have to learn from each other, making our different traditions and cultures a source of harmony and strength, not discord and weakness.
Kofi Annan also reflected on the need to recognize the complexity and unique nature of each society.
"The mix of policies and institutions required to manage relations between indigenous communities and a majority of long-established incomers is not the same as that required to integrate and protect 'new' minorities who have only recently arrived." Solutions must be tailored for the unique situation of every single society. "This is where the role of the Centre will be invaluable."
Honourable senators, the Global Centre for Pluralism's work in fostering leadership for pluralism stands as a remarkable testament to our own unique and imperfect society. As His Highness the Aga Khan pointed out in his remarks, that story, and the relationship between Canada's indigenous peoples, English and French citizens, and new Canadians continues to evolve because pluralism is not an end in itself, but a continuous process. By continuing to learn and grow into a more accepting, caring and compassionate society, we model for societies worldwide that diversity and peace are forces for the common good.
I hope honourable senators will join me in recognizing and thanking the Global Centre for Pluralism and the His Highness the Aga Khan for their valuable contributions as facilitators of pluralism leadership in Canada and around the world.
(1420)
Hon. A. Raynell Andreychuk: Honourable senators, I rise today to draw your attention to the plight of an Iranian political prisoner. Nasrin Sotoudeh is one of some 2,600 prisoners of conscience who are currently denied their freedom in the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Over the coming months and years, I will be following and raising Ms. Sotoudeh's case as part the Iranian Political Prisoner Global Advocacy Project. This is an initiative of the Inter-Parliamentary Group for Human Rights in Iran, co-founded by Canadian Member of Parliament Irwin Cotler and U.S. Senator Mark Kirk. The objective is to pair parliamentarians around the world with Iranian political prisoners in order to mobilize awareness and action on their behalf.
Nasrin Sotoudeh is a 50-year-old married mother of two young children. As a lawyer, she has dedicated her life to defending the rights of women and mothers, opposition activists and politicians, abused children and children sentenced to death.
In September 2010, she was arrested and charged with "spreading propaganda" and "conspiring to harm state security." She spent time in solitary confinement in the infamous Evin Prison. In January 2011, she was sentenced to 11 years in prison and barred from practising law and leaving Iran for 20 years. An appeals court later reduced her sentence to six years in prison and a 10-year ban from practising law.
Ms. Sotoudeh's family has also been subject to harassment and travel bans. She has protested twice by going on a hunger strike, apparently prompting a rapid decline in her eyesight. She has been denied leave for treatment. Responding to repeated denials of visits by her daughter, she is reported to have written to her children:
I know you require water, food, housing, a family, parents, love, and visits with your mother. However, just as much, you need freedom, social security, the rule of law, and justice.
Few words capture the fundamental nature of human rights as clearly as those comments. Ms. Sotoudeh's commitment to upholding these values is both humbling and a source of inspiration.
I encourage all honourable senators to continue to speak out on behalf of Iranian political prisoners, such as Nasrin Sotoudeh — prisoners who have sacrificed their freedom in defence of that of their fellow citizens and on behalf of all humanity.
I thank honourable senators for supporting this initiative.
Hon. Jane Cordy: Honourable senators, I rise today to congratulate the Halifax Mooseheads Major Junior Hockey League team for their Memorial Cup victory on Sunday night against the Portland Winterhawks.
Some Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
Senator Cordy: The Memorial Cup Championship capped off a stellar season for the Mooseheads, setting franchise records for the most wins, the fewest losses and the most goals scored in a season. Their strong play during the season carried over to the playoffs where they lost just once in 17 games to win the President's Cup as the champions of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, also known as "The Q."
This made them the Quebec league representatives in the Memorial Cup Championship. The Mooseheads brought the Memorial Cup to Halifax for the first time ever. By the way, the Memorial Cup has been won by the Quebec league teams for the past three seasons: the Saint John Sea Dogs in 2011, Shawinigan Cataractes in 2012 and the Mooseheads in 2013.
The score was 3-0 for the Mooseheads after the first period of the championship game, but was 3-2 after the second, leading to an exciting third period of hockey. With one minute and 16 seconds left to play, the score was 5-4. The Winterhawks had an empty net, and six attackers buzzing around the Halifax net. As great players do in key moments, Nathan MacKinnon scored his third goal of the game into the empty net with 22 seconds left on the clock to clinch the game and the Memorial Cup.
Nathan MacKinnon from Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia, also home of Sidney Crosby, had a hat trick and two assists in the game, and was the MVP of the tournament.
The Mooseheads are an exceptional team, with stars like Nathan MacKinnon, Jonathan Drouin and Marty Frk — a line that would have to go down as one of the best forward lines in junior hockey history. The 17-year-old goalie, Zachary Fucale, played like a veteran.
Congratulations to all the Mooseheads players who have won the hearts of Nova Scotians. Congratulations to the owner, Bobby Smith; the general manager, Cam Russell — also from Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia; the coach, Dominique Ducharme; and all the Mooseheads organization that worked together to build a winning team.
Today Nova Scotians will be celebrating Mooseheads Day at the grand parade in Halifax. Thank you, Mooseheads, for a remarkable season of hockey, and congratulations on your Memorial Cup win.
Hon. Paul E. McIntyre: Honourable senators, I rise today to speak about the New Brunswick Festival of Tall Ships on the Miramichi.
A tall ship generally refers to a large-rig sailing vessel, depending on the number of spars and the carvings of sails; however, a tall ship can also refer to a sloop, barquentine, ketch, brig, schooner or brigantine. From Friday, May 31, to June 2, 2013, eight tall ships will be journeying up the Miramichi River.
The City of Miramichi is the largest city in northeastern New Brunswick and is positioned along the Miramichi River, internationally renowned for its salmon fishing. The City of Miramichi is the hub of attraction for visitors and residents throughout the summer months. Featured summer festivals include, among others, Canada's Irish Festival and the Miramichi Folksong Festival.
This summer, the New Brunswick Festival of Tall Ships will be the city's most anticipated event for people of all age groups. Eight ships, all with a unique history and purpose, will be sailing up the Miramichi River for this forthcoming event.
Leading the small fleet will be the HMCS Summerside of the Royal Canadian Navy, a maritime coastal defence craft.
The Peacemaker was initially constructed in southern Brazil with various hardwoods. The ship's new reconstructive system was made possible with the purchase of the ship by a religious group, the Twelve Tribes. The Peacemaker sailed for the first time in 2007 and its home port is located in Brunswick, Georgia.
The 85-foot-long Roter Sand, whose home port is Rimouski, Quebec, is a sailing ship created for teaching purposes. It is used primarily for training sailors. For instance, the ship was used for research and teaching games in the Wadden Sea, North Sea and along the Elbe.
Other ships include the Pride of Baltimore II, the Lynx, Unicorn, Sorca, Hindu and Liana's Ransom. The Liana's Ransom will host daily sailings for this event, providing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for interested attendees to venture along the Miramichi River. Scheduled events will take place from Friday to Sunday. Additionally, the eight highlighted ships will be open for public viewing on June 1 and 2.
It is hoped that this special event will attract visitors, tourists and residents of all ages to the East Coast port this summer.
Hon. Fabian Manning: Honourable senators, I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the tenth report of the Standing Senate Committee on Fisheries and Oceans entitled: The Lobster Fishery: Staying on Course.
(On motion of Senator Manning, report placed on the Orders of the Day for consideration at the next sitting of the Senate.)
(1430)
Hon. Fabian Manning: Honourable senators, I give notice that, at the next sitting of the Senate, I will move:
That the Standing Senate Committee on Fisheries and Oceans be authorized to meet at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 4, 2013, even though the Senate may then be sitting, and that rule 12-18(1) be suspended in relation thereto.
Hon. JoAnne L. Buth: Honourable senators, I give notice that, two days hence:
I will call the attention of the Senate to the importance of agriculture and agricultural trade to the Canadian economy and rural prosperity.
Hon. Asha Seth: Honourable senators, I give notice that, two days hence:
I will call the attention of the Senate to the increasing rates of blindness and vision loss in Canada and the strategies to prevent further vision loss.
[Translation]
Leave having been given to revert to Notices of Motions:
Hon. Maria Chaput: Honourable senators, I give notice that, at the next sitting of the Senate, I will move:
That, notwithstanding the order of the Senate adopted on Wednesday, September 26, 2012, the date for the final report of the Standing Senate Committee on Official Languages in relation to its study on CBC/Radio-Canada's obligations under the Official Languages Act and some aspects of the Broadcasting Act be extended from June 30, 2013, to December 31, 2013.
[English]
Hon. George J. Furey: Honourable senators, my question is for the Chair of Internal Economy. I would like to begin by welcoming back Senator Tkachuk. I wish him all the best with his health because our health is the most important thing we have, and I hope all is well.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear.
Senator Furey: Senator Tkachuk, last week Senator Cowan and I raised the issue of the need for public hearings for the review of Senator Duffy's report to Internal Economy. Senator LeBreton stated over the weekend that she would support open hearings if it were the decision of Internal Economy. Senator Cowan has written as well to Internal Economy asking for public hearings in light of the controversy swirling around the report related to Senator Duffy.
My question to you, Senator Tkachuk, is: Are you prepared now to state that these hearings will indeed be held in an open and transparent fashion, accessible to the public and to the media?
Hon. David Tkachuk: Honourable senators, the steering committee has decided, and will recommend to the Internal Economy Committee, that the meeting of Internal Economy that will be held this afternoon will be an open meeting and a public meeting.
Hon. George J. Furey: Honourable senators, I have a further question, which is to the Leader of the Government in the Senate.
Last week, Senator LeBreton, I asked you about the appropriateness of Senator Tkachuk staying on as chair for this particular review — not necessarily for chair for all reviews but in particular for the review for Senator Duffy. This arose as a result of comments that Senator Tkachuk had made in the media with respect to consultations he had about the report with the PMO and with Mr. Nigel Wright. You indicated that you needed some time to review that report or review the media reports and to talk to Senator Tkachuk. I am wondering if you have had that time and if you can report to the chamber now.
Hon. Marjory LeBreton (Leader of the Government): Thank you, Senator Furey. Yes, I did read the full interview, and as I have said myself many times over the weekend, and on many of the media shows that I was on, obviously we live and work in a political environment. We all discuss many things with each other. There is nothing unusual about this. I have satisfied myself that all discussions, as we try to assure our colleagues that we had a process in place — and I will not bore you with the process. It goes back to the letter that Senator Cowan and I signed, and the audits and all of the rest.
I would indicate to you, Senator Furey, as I said in answer to your question early on about whether I would support these hearings being made in public, I have always said and was very clear that the Senate Internal Economy Committee is a committee of the Senate and I would fully support the decisions of the committee. Of course, as Senator Tkachuk just responded in his answer to you, the steering committee of which you are a member — it is rather interesting you would ask the question since you are a member of the committee that made the decision to go public. Having said that, I again remind you that the committee is seized with this very important issue. I have full faith in all members of the committee on both sides.
I will make the point while I am on my feet that it was only when we obtained the majority in this place that we opened up the process and publicized all senators' expenses. If it had not been for that, even though it is a little bit difficult for the Senate to handle these issues at the moment, I am glad we did because it will result in tighter rules.
To prove the point that what we did was the right thing, I am going to quote one of your former colleagues, the Honourable Senator Thelma Chalifoux. When asked by APTN over the weekend, and I will read from the article:
In an interview with APTN news, former Senator Thelma Chalifoux was asked if she saw people using loopholes for personal benefit during her time in the red chamber. Here's her response: "Oh yes, but it was all under the table and it wasn't publicized."
I am glad that we are part of the party that opened up the books.
Some Hon. Senators: Hear, hear.
Senator Furey: Senator LeBreton, in response to your issue about being on steering, sometimes it is important to get things on the public record.
You said the consultations that were held around this are usual. Can you explain to the chamber what is usual about $90,000 changing hands between a chief of staff and a senator who is under a forensic investigation for expenses? What is usual about that?
Senator LeBreton: Actually, I was talking about conversations. Your question directly to me was about conversations. What I said was that conversations are not unusual, and of course they are not.
Hon. James S. Cowan (Leader of the Opposition): Honourable senators, my first question is for my friend the Leader of the Government in the Senate.
Last Wednesday, May 21, I asked you about the role played by Benjamin Perrin, Special Adviser, Legal Affairs and Policy, in the Prime Minister's Office, in concluding the arrangements between Mr. Wright and Senator Duffy. You said in reply that you did not know Mr. Perrin or what his role was in the Prime Minister's Office. I then asked you if you would find out what role Mr. Perrin played in making those arrangements. Have you been able to do so?
Hon. Marjory LeBreton (Leader of the Government): Honourable senators, I think I was actually referring to your confusion about what his role was, Senator Cowan. Since that point in time, I understand Mr. Perrin has made a statement that he played no role in this.
Senator Cowan: That is not exactly what he said and it is not exactly what I said. You know of the alleged involvement of Mr. Perrin in these arrangements. It involved the operation of a committee of this Senate where you are the majority leader. You lead the government in this place. You are responsible for this chamber in the Government of Canada. That is your responsibility. You are the minister responsible for this chamber. I would have thought that you would have at least the slightest curiosity in view of all of this controversy. You might have taken it upon yourself to find out the role that Mr. Perrin played in making these arrangements. That is the question I asked. You quite properly did not know either Mr. Perrin or his role or any role last week. Have you been able to find out? Have you taken the trouble to find out?
(1440)
Senator LeBreton: Senator Cowan, I am amazed at your lack of knowledge about the role of my responsibility to this chamber. My responsibility is to answer for the government in this chamber. I have pointed out that I answer for the government in the chamber. I am not responsible for the operation of the Senate Chamber. The Senate is a house of Parliament just like the House of Commons. We have an Internal Economy Committee. The committee runs itself in a collaborative, cooperative way, and, as the Leader of the Government in the Senate, although I know it is vastly misunderstood by the public, I am shocked that it is misunderstood by you. The fact of the matter is that I answer for the government in the Senate. I do not run the Senate.
Senator Cowan: I take it that the answer is that you have made no inquiries and you know no more about any role that he might have played than you did last week. Is that correct?
Senator LeBreton: I informed myself of what Mr. Perrin publicly stated in a written statement and that is the extent to which I did.
Hon. James S. Cowan (Leader of the Opposition): I would like to ask some questions of Senator Tkachuk, Chair of the Committee on Internal Economy. Again, welcome back, Senator Tkachuk, and I hope your health continues to improve. Between February 8, 2013 and May 9, 2013, did either you or Senator Stewart Olsen have any contact with any employee of Deloitte with respect to the audits of any of Senators Brazeau, Duffy or Harb?
Hon. David Tkachuk: Honourable senators, I am glad I am back, if for no other reason than while I was away it seemed I almost lost my job. The next time I get sick I am going to be back here even if it means coming back on a stretcher.
Between February 8 and May 18, I cannot say unequivocally that we met with them, but, when we did meet with the auditors, we always met with them as members of the steering committee. I cannot tell you the exact dates.
Senator Cowan: To follow up, you had no conversations with anyone who was an employee of Deloitte except in the company of Senator Stewart Olsen and Senator Furey, who are the other members of the steering committee. Is that correct?
Senator Tkachuk: I believe that is correct. We might have met with them earlier, before a meeting, but I do not believe that we met with them for any purpose to do with the audit itself except with Senator Furey and — the three of us.
Hon. George J. Furey: I have a supplementary question. Senator Tkachuk, maybe your memory is failing you a little. I think, on one occasion, you, in fact, did meet with the auditors without myself and Senator Stewart Olsen present. You reported back to us subsequently, but I think you did, in fact, have one meeting without us.
Senator Tkachuk: I would have met with them in my position as chair, and I did report back to the steering committee about the meeting. That is all I have to say.
Senator Cowan: What was the nature of the discussion you had at that time?
Senator Tkachuk: If you are asking me, on a particular day, to tell you the discussion, I would have to refer back to my notes. I am sorry that I cannot give you that information.
Senator Cowan: Senator Tkachuk, with the greatest respect, you are going to have to answer those questions at some time, in some form. Maybe the fairest thing for me to do is to ask the questions today. For any questions you cannot answer, if you would undertake to go back and refresh your memory and report back here, I would be delighted if you would do that.
Senator Tkachuk: I would be more than happy to take that as notice and reply back.
Senator Cowan: My next question is a similar question but is for between February 8, 2013 and May 9, 2013. The significance of those dates is that February 8 is the time when I think the committee referred those issues to Deloitte and retained Deloitte, and May 9 was the date that you tabled the reports here in the Senate.
Between February 8, 2013 and May 9, 2013, did you or Senator Stewart Olsen have contact with any of Senators Brazeau, Duffy or Harb with respect to the forensic audit process?
Senator Tkachuk: I had no conversation with Senator Brazeau or Senator Harb about the audit process, and I did have a conversation with Senator Duffy, which was reported in the audit committee report.
Senator Cowan: Between November 20, 2012 and May 9, 2013, did you or Senator Stewart Olsen have any contact with Nigel Wright or any other officials of the Prime Minister's Office with respect to any of Senators Brazeau, Duffy or Harb and the ongoing forensic audit process?
Senator Tkachuk: I had general conversation during that time — maybe twice — and it was just a general conversation about the process itself. It was about the fact that we had a political situation on our hands, and there was really nothing more than that. It was not complicated in any way.
Senator Cowan: That was with respect to the audits of the three senators or with respect to the audit of one senator?
Senator Tkachuk: It was about the whole process itself and the difficulty that the Senate is in.
Senator Cowan: I take it these meetings were with Mr. Wright. Am I correct?
Senator Tkachuk: They were phone conversations. There were not any meetings.
Senator Cowan: There were no face-to-face meetings between you and Mr. Wright or anyone else in the Prime Minister's Office?
Senator Tkachuk: Well, during this time? Senator, could you be more precise than that? I am a politician, and I do meet with members of the PMO from time to time.
Senator Cowan: Let me read you the question again: Between November 20, 2012 and May 9, 2013, did you or Senator Stewart Olsen have any contact with Nigel Wright or any other officials of the Prime Minister's Office with respect to any of Senators Brazeau, Duffy or Harb or the ongoing forensic audit process?
Senator Tkachuk: I will take notice of that and I will report back.
Senator Cowan: Thank you. If there was any correspondence, either letters or email, would you undertake to table that in the Senate?
Senator Tkachuk: No.
Senator Cowan: In your interview that was reported in Maclean's magazine last week, you said that you had received — the word was — "advice" from Nigel Wright. What advice did you receive from Nigel Wright or other officials in the Prime Minister's Office with respect to the content of the reports of the Internal Economy Committee of the Senate on Senators Brazeau, Duffy and/or Harb?
Senator Tkachuk: The advice that I asked for was in general terms. I received no advice that told me what had to be said in the report, and we take full responsibility. The steering committee first completed the report. Then, it was returned to Internal Economy. Internal Economy then dealt with the report, and reported it to the Senate for debate.
Senator Cowan: Is it your opinion — and I am asking for your personal opinion here — that the primary and secondary residence declarations signed by each of those senators, and by many of the rest of us, are, to use the words in the report, amply clear, as is the purpose and intent of the guidelines to reimburse living expenses, and that the language is unambiguous?
Senator Tkachuk: I think that there are three reports tabled in the chamber, and you can read them yourself, Senator Cowan.
Senator Cowan: I have read them, and I noticed a great difference between the three of them. You tabled three reports, with respect to three senators, on the ninth of May. The issue, in the case of each of the three senators, was their entitlement or lack of entitlement to claim living expenses with respect to primary residence or secondary residence in the nation's capital. That was the core issue that was dealt with in the audits and on which your committee was reporting.
All three reports were signed by you, as chair of the committee. Why was it that in two of the reports, with respect to senators Harb and Brazeau, you said that the committee considered that the wording of the form — we were talking about the primary and secondary residence declaration — was "amply clear." Those are the words in the report. It continued, "... as is the purpose and intent of the guidelines... to reimburse living expenses.” Your committee's opinion was that the language is "unambiguous." If that is your opinion, why did it appear in two reports and not the third report?
(1450)
Senator Tkachuk: All three reports have been tabled in the Senate, and I would like to deal with that. You have raised issues in this place about the committee report of Senator Duffy and the fact that it was a whitewash report. Everyone on this side knows and everyone on your side knows that committees rarely ever, at least in the 20 years that I have been here, adopt a report that we first tabled until after long conversations about what should be in the report. Senators write the report; nobody else writes the report.
With Senator Duffy's report, we had a first draft, which was prepared by the clerk after general discussion. We dealt with that draft and made changes to it. Some of the changes were agreed to by Senator Furey and some were not.
We then presented the report to Internal Economy. An amendment was made, delivered and passed, as most reports are. This was normal procedure with members of the opposition always in the room when amendments were made. There was no way that changes to this report were made in a way that would cause any discomfort to any members serving on any committee in this place. That report was tabled and passed by Internal Economy, and it is now here for debate. It was not whitewashed. It followed a democratic process from start to finish, as the whole process did from start to finish.
Senator Furey: Senator Tkachuk, I do not disagree that in the normal course reports often go through iterations. The problem with what you have just stated is that the report came in on May 7. There were a few typographicals and minor changes made that the full committee agreed to. Twenty-four hours later, you used your majority in steering to delete all negative references to Senator Duffy, including his travel pattern and amount of time spent in P.E.I. versus his primary residence, which the report at that time said was Ottawa and not P.E.I. Twenty-four hours after that, Mr. Robert Fife from CTV reported that $90,000 from the Chief of Staff of the Prime Minister exchanged hands with Senator Duffy to pay off money that he should not have collected in the first place in the view of the committee. That is what makes it unusual. That is what takes it out of the realm of the usual.
Senator Tkachuk: It would only be unusual, Senator Furey, if we knew anything of that, but we did not know anything of that. When we dealt with that report, we had no knowledge of what had happened. We only became aware of that information when it was made public on the Friday after the report was tabled in this place.
I want to deal with that committee report. The rules describe what committees do. Just so honourable members opposite know, the rules say that it is the opinion of the committee, not those of individual members, that is required by the house; and failing unanimity, the conclusions agreed to by the majority are the conclusions of the committee. This is what it says in the guide for chairs. If the report is a substantive one, the staff will normally write the first draft of the report in accordance with the committee's directives. When the first draft is complete, the analysts and the clerk usually meet again with the chair to consider any preliminary revisions, and so on.
That is what happened in this committee. Nothing else happened. There was no whitewash. It was in recognition of the fact that Senator Duffy had paid his money back. We had already received the cash and deposited it to the account of the Receiver General. That is why the amendments were made.
Senator Furey: Senator Tkachuk, you are talking about normal circumstances when reading from the rules. If you were on this side of the chamber and one day a report was looked at, the next day it was eviscerated and the day after you heard about $90,000 changing hands, surely you would think there was something going on, would you not?
Senator Tkachuk: I can only repeat that we have dealt with it in steering in a proper manner, and we dealt with it in Internal Economy in a proper manner. There was debate. The amendment was passed. It was delivered to the Senate. There was nothing more to it than that, Senator Furey.
Senator Cowan: Let me go back to where I was a few moments ago. As chair of the committee, you signed and tabled three reports. The issue before the committee in each of those cases was exactly the same.
You shake your head but we are dealing with a primary and secondary residence declaration, and we are talking about some guidelines which support that. In two of the committee reports that you signed, you said on behalf of the committee that the primary and secondary residence declaration form was "amply clear." Those are not my words; those are your words or the committee's words, which you presented to this chamber. You said that the language was "unambiguous." Now, with the same form, the same guidelines and the same language, how can you report to the Senate that it is amply clear and unambiguous with respect to two senators and not draw the same conclusion with the third senator?
Senator Tkachuk: Senator Cowan, if I had received a cheque from Senator Brazeau and Senator Harb, their reports might have been a lot different as well.
Senator Cowan: Senator Tkachuk, how can the fact of Senator Duffy's repayment, whether with his money or anybody else's money, which is for another day, affect your opinion and the committee's opinion as to the clarity or lack of clarity or the unambiguity or ambiguity of the language? The two are completely unrelated. What is the connection? What am I missing?
Senator Tkachuk: You have a narrative, Senator Cowan, and you insist on that narrative. The narrative is wrong. Senator Duffy said he may have been mistaken, and he delivered a cheque. That is exactly what you and Senator LeBreton asked us to do: Collect the money with interest — all monies to be paid with interest, which is exactly what we did. He delivered a cheque to us in March and paid it. The report reflected that, Senator Cowan.
Senator Cowan: I might look at a document and say it is clear, and you might look and say it is unclear. However, if we are looking at the same document, how can we say that it is clear in two cases and unclear in the third case? How would the fact of repayment, which is completely irrelevant to whether the language of the form is clear and unambiguous, possibly affect that, Senator Tkachuk?
Senator Tkachuk: You know, Senator Cowan, the committee adopted the report. The report sits in this chamber for debate. We can have a long debate about this matter when we get to it. I am simply trying to reflect what my narrative is, which is that Senator Duffy had repaid the money. Senator Duffy said that he may have been mistaken, and therefore the report reflects that.
Senator Cowan: Is that relevant to whether the language in the form is clear? What is the connection?
Senator Tkachuk: I have given you my answer, Senator Cowan. You have a right to ask the question you have asked, but you have repeated it three or four times. Do not badger me about this; just ask me a question and I will try to give you an answer. I have given you the answer on this one and I am not going to change that answer.
Senator Cowan: So that I am clear, Senator Duffy paid the money back and said that in his opinion he did not consider he had done anything wrong. That made the language clearer and the form unambiguous in that, or the other way around, that because that had been paid —
(1500)
An Hon. Senator: Oh, oh!
Senator Cowan: Senator LeBreton, I am not asking you the questions; I am asking him the questions. Thank you. I am not asking you the questions. You will get your turn.
Senator LeBreton: But you are getting your words confused.
The Hon. the Speaker: Order.
Senator Cowan: Explain to me —
The Hon. the Speaker: Order, please.
Honourable senators, this is Question Period. The honourable senator asking the question of either the Leader of the Government in the Senate or the chair of the committee has the floor.
Senator Cowan: The question is: How can the fact of repayment have anything to do with whether the language and the form are clear or unclear?
Senator Tkachuk: I will restate that the report speaks for itself. It is on the floor of the Senate and we are going to have a debate about that report and we are going to deal with it as the Senate.
Hon. Lillian Eva Dyck: My question is for the Leader of the Government in the Senate and it is going to take a slightly different tactic. Senator Duffy claimed that the forms were unclear, that he was not sure how to answer the form and that therefore he may have been mistaken. Now, I ask you, since he has been removed from your caucus and he is presumably sitting here as an independent, if he cannot figure out that form, how is he going to work as a senator when we have to look at bills which are way more complicated than that form? Is he competent to sit here as a senator? Does your government think he is competent?
Hon. Marjory LeBreton (Leader of the Government): Thank you, Senator Dyck. Senator Duffy, as you know, a couple of weeks ago removed himself from our caucus and is sitting as an independent. As was reported by the chair of Internal Economy after steering committee, of which the deputy chair was there, this morning, he indicated that the meeting is to be held later today. I am not even sure of the time — I believe it is after the Senate rises. I believe since these are public meetings and I understand Senator Duffy plans to be at the meeting — we do not know. This is what I hear, but that is what they are speculating because he had also indicated himself that he wanted this to be open to be public. So, if in fact Senator Duffy does exercise his right to appear, these are questions that you can put to him directly at the committee.
Hon. James S. Cowan (Leader of the Opposition): My question is for Senator Tkachuk. On February 8, 2013 you, as chair of the Internal Economy Committee, issued a press release which included the following sentence:
As well, the Chair and Deputy Chair (Senator Furey) of the committee are seeking legal advice on the question of Senator Duffy's residency.
Who is to provide that legal advice and when is it due to be received?
Hon. David Tkachuk: We have asked the Senate staff for that legal advice and we have yet to receive it.
Senator Cowan: When do you expect to receive it?
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, the time reserved for oral questions has been exhausted.
[Translation]
Hon. Claude Carignan (Deputy Leader of the Government): Honourable senators, I have the honour to table the answer to the oral questions asked by the Honourable Senator Dallaire, the Honourable Senator Cordy and the Honourable Senator Munson on March 20, 2013, concerning the Canada Border Services Agency.
(Response to questions raised by Hon. Roméo Antonius Dallaire, Hon. Jane Cordy, and Hon. Jim Munson on March 20, 2013)
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is participating in a documentary television series called "Border Security: Canada's Front Line" that follows the day-to-day work of CBSA officers. This production educated Canadians about the important work that CBSA officers undertake 24/7 across Canada including at the land border, airports, mail centres and during inland enforcement. The participating officers are doing their jobs, and the production takes place at no extra costs to CBSA's front line operations. For season one of the production, the CBSA incurred an internal cost of less than $60,000 primarily for salary dollars for the required administrative support, including onsite oversight within one region. Season two will be twice the number of episodes and involve more than one region. As such, the CBSA has estimated internal costs to be approximately $160,000 for the required administrative oversight, including safeguards to ensure the privacy of individuals is protected at all times. Further, there is no exchange of moneys between the CBSA and the production company, Force Four Productions Ltd., or Shaw Media. The CBSA and the production company are aware of their obligations with regard to Canada's Privacy Act and related legislation. Participation in the documentary series is strictly voluntary. The privacy of individuals is protected at all times. The majority of episodes deal with front line CBSA officers stopping criminals from entering Canada. The government expects the CBSA to enforce Canada's laws and ensure the safety and security of law-abiding Canadians.
[English]
The Hon. the Speaker: On May 21, the Honourable Senator Cowan, the Leader of the Opposition, raised a question of privilege. His allegation was that privilege had been violated by the events leading to the presentation of the twenty-second report of the Standing Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration on May 9. Based on subsequent information from the media and other sources, Senator Cowan argued that the report was incomplete and biased. The effect, he argued, was to undermine the credibility of the Senate and public confidence in the institution. Senator Cowan argued that it was essential that action be taken to deal with this situation by thoroughly investigating all aspects of the allegations.
[Translation]
Senator Carignan, the Deputy Leader of the Government, responded by urging senators to focus on established facts, not allegations. He noted that other processes are available to deal with the concerns that are circulating. This includes recourse to the Conflict of Interest Code for Senators. Later Senator Nolin took up this idea by noting that another alternative was to refer the report back to the Internal Economy Committee. Senator Andreychuk drew our attention to the parliamentary authorities, which note that a disagreement as to fact does not constitute a question of privilege.
[English]
Senator Fraser, however, shared the concerns of the Opposition Leader. She underscored the importance of parliamentary bodies remaining free from obstruction, interference and intimidation. She argued that the allegations raise serious concern about inappropriate interference with a committee that plays a central role in the operation of the Senate.
Let me begin by making reference to a statement made more than thirty years ago, by the then-Speaker of the House of Commons, the Right Honourable Jeanne Sauvé. On March 18, 1982, after a serious breakdown in the business of the other place, she stated:
What ensued from our failure to bring our rules up to date earned us shrugs and even sneers from our fellow citizens. We may even have strengthened an unfortunately widespread tendency to be sceptical of the actions of Parliament...
She went on to state that "The authority of the Chair is no greater than the House wants it to be." The Speaker is the servant of the house, assisting it in conducting its business in an orderly manner that balances, as far as possible, many divergent interests.
[Translation]
In the Senate, given the limited authority of the chair, this is even more evident. Honourable senators are themselves responsible for how business is conducted, and retain final control of proceedings through the right to appeal decisions of the Speaker.
[English]
I raise this situation from many years ago because of the current circumstances, characterized by many as a crisis, in which the Senate now finds itself. There has been a swirl of accusations, many of them disturbing, and this has affected how the public perceives this body. The Senate is an important part of our parliamentary system, which has served our country well for more than 145 years. Honourable senators work for the public good in positions of trust, and must act responsibly. It is for honourable senators to take control of the situation and restore trust that may have been damaged.
When the Auditor General of Canada first identified concerns about inadequate documentation for some reimbursable claims, the Senate took this seriously. Through the Internal Economy Committee we worked to review travel expenses. This eventually led to the audit of certain senators' expenses. To date the Senate has received three reports on specific cases. Other proposals to enhance expenditure controls have been made.
[Translation]
Senator Cowan has outlined his understanding of how events relating to the twenty-second report unfolded. Because of these concerns, the Senate decided to refer the report back to the Internal Economy Committee for further consideration on the same day the question of privilege was raised.
(1510)
[English]
Honourable senators, I do not underestimate the serious challenge of this situation for the Senate. For the good of the institution, and for the good of Parliament, the Internal Economy Committee needs to consider carefully how it will undertake a thorough and careful review of all aspects of the situation. The Rules of the Senate and parliamentary practice afford this committee the authority it needs to hear witnesses and to send for papers. The committee knows that honourable senators, and Canadians, will watch its work with great attention.
It is in this context that we must consider the question of privilege raised by the honourable Leader of the Opposition. At this preliminary stage, the Speaker provides the Senate with an analysis of whether a prima facie case of privilege has been established. The four criteria of rule 13-3(1), all of which must be met, guide this analysis.
[Translation]
Given the arguments during consideration of the question of privilege and subsequent events, it is most helpful to start with the fourth criterion — that no alternate parliamentary process is reasonably available to deal with the matter. Senator Carignan noted that some aspects of the situation can be dealt with under the Conflict of Interest Code for Senators. Of immediate relevance, the very fact that the report in question was sent back to the committee shows that an alternate process was available. The Senate has implemented it, thereby pre-empting to some degree this decision, as is its undoubted right.
[English]
The committee is now responsible for reviewing the expenses and a range of related issues. It would be best to wait for the results of that work to see if clarity can be brought to this grave situation, rather than starting a second, parallel process. That would risk further confusion.
The Speaker must be satisfied that all four criteria are met in order to find that a prima facie case of privilege exists. The fact that this question of privilege does not meet one criterion means that, under the Rules, it cannot succeed. Given this, there is no need to directly address the other criteria.
Debate in the Senate and other actions point to the seriousness of the events. After the Internal Economy Committee presents an updated report, senators will be able to assess it to see if the concerns have been addressed properly and effectively.
[Translation]
The ruling is that there is no prima facie case of privilege. The Senate already is taking action on the concerns that gave rise to Senator Cowan's question of privilege. Senators must now have the chance to work to resolve this problem.
[English]
On the Order:
Resuming debate on the motion of the Honourable Senator Lang, seconded by the Honourable Senator Martin, for the third reading of Bill C-42, An Act to amend the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Act and to make related and consequential amendments to other Acts.
Hon. Joseph A. Day: Honourable senators, I thought I might say a few words in relation to this particular bill to give my impressions as a member of the Standing Senate Committee on National Security and Defence, which has handled this matter. In conjunction with this bill, we have been handling a study with respect to harassment. Sometimes the subjects get confused, because we are all very concerned about the RCMP and the various lawsuits that we are seeing. There was another one just last week from one of the uniformed members of the RCMP working with the Musical Ride.
There are some concerns, honourable senators, that need to be dealt with. Bill C-42 is the enhancing the Royal Canadian Mounted Police accountability act. The stated aim of the bill is to restore public confidence in the RCMP — confidence that has been shaken after a series of controversies over the last several years.
I am proud of the work that the members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police — commonly known as the Mounties — do, and I can think of no better ambassadors for Canada to represent our nation than the fine men and women in the Red Serge and the Stetson hats. This is an image that is immediately equated with Canada the world over, and for this we must all be grateful, honourable senators. I have no doubt that the vast majority of Mounties serve with noble intentions. They commit to their duties with pride and honour throughout their careers. Most RCMP officers and retired members I know are deeply troubled by what they see in the headlines, more so than the average Canadian, even.
These truths, however, do not belie the fact that there are pressing issues within the RCMP that need to be addressed immediately in order to assure Canadians that the RCMP is and will remain the fine policing force that we have come to know and rely upon. Given the events of the last several weeks, I need not remind honourable senators what the actions of a few can do to an institution's reputation.
Having listened to witness testimony, I am of the view that this bill is a first step in addressing these issues. For this reason, I am generally in favour of the objectives of the bill.
However, our role as legislators, particularly in this chamber, requires us to ensure that the legislation goes beyond a first step, and that any bill we return to the other place is legislation that takes as many as possible of the required steps toward addressing shortcomings. This bill, in my view, fails to do that.
If we pass this legislation as it is before us today, I do not believe we will have done the best we could do for the wonderful institution of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. We can expect to have other bills before us in the not-too-distant future — bills that will seek to accomplish that which we should be accomplishing with this legislation.
The new Part VI of the act as proposed in this bill deals with the creation of the civilian review and complaints commission for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
There are basically three aspects to this legislation that honourable senators should be aware of: There is the internal process of a member complaining about the actions or activities of another member; there are the provisions with respect to improving the role of the commissioner and giving the commissioner more power to manage; and there are provisions in this bill to deal with outside complaints — people complaining that an RCMP officer acted excessively.
The civilian review and complaints commission for the RCMP is an attempt to improve the existing Commission for Public Complaints Against the RCMP. That is a group and an institution that exists within the RCMP structure at this time, and we are creating a new civilian review and complaints commission for the RCMP; that is what is proposed.
The expanded powers include, but are not limited to, calling and subpoenaing witnesses, requesting information from the RCMP commissioner that in the past the civilian review and complaints commission for the RCMP was unable to have access to, and initiating special inquiries.
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As is often the case, honourable senators, the devil is in the details. As I have explained, the civilian review and complaints commission, which I will call the CRCC, has broader powers than its predecessor the CPC, yet its mandate does not go as far as that suggested by two separate independent inquiries looking into the RCMP: David Brown in 2004 and Justice Dennis O'Connor in 2007.
While the bill gives the CRCC the power to conduct a review on its own initiative or at the request of the minister, the language of the bill states that such an inquiry can only be conducted to review specified activities. When one looks through the bill to find out what "specified activities" means, there is no definition. The bill does not indicate the scope of these specified activities, which leaves it open to severe limitations on the mandate of this new body.
In a similar vein, the CRCC's decision is not binding, and ultimately it lies with the Commissioner of the RCMP to accept its decision or not. It is imperative that the commissioner give extensive, well-thought-out reasons for rejecting a decision made by the CRCC. The CRCC is a commission, and there is also the Commissioner of the RCMP. When one reads through the bill, one must be careful not to confuse the commissioner with the work that the commission is doing. The commissioner can reject the commission's report.
As honourable senators will see, this bill increases the power of the RCMP commissioner in many respects. I do not feel that the new manifestation of the public complaints commission, as it is written in this bill, has kept pace with those expanded powers of the commissioner so as to be a capable partner in RCMP governance.
Comparisons can be made between the CRCC and the Security Intelligence Review Committee. Honourable senators will know about the SIRC, the Security Intelligence Review Committee, which reviews the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, CSIS, and keeps an eye on their activities.
In his report, Justice O'Connor was of the mindset that the CRCC should not be limited with respect to the information it has access to in order to perform its functions. He believes that the CRCC should have access to information up to the level of cabinet documents, which is the same limitation on SIRC. However, proposed section 45.42 in this bill has included other restrictions as well.
The CRCC, with respect to the RCMP, does not have the same level of oversight and investigative powers that SIRC has with respect to CSIS. That is one of the recommendations made: To be effective, the CRCC must be able to investigate activities when there is a public complaint.
Proposed section 45.42 includes other restrictions on the type of information that can be accessed by the CRCC. Proposed section 45.34(2) also places preconditions on any review undertaken on the initiative of the CRCC. These sections place limits on the ability and functions, limitations that do not exist with respect to SIRC.
I am also concerned about proposed section 45.34(2) with regard to the lack of protection for RCMP members who are being investigated. I speak of Part IV as proposed in the bill, the part that deals with members' conduct and investigation into alleged breaches of conduct.
Section 40.3 states as follows:
On ex parte application, a justice may order a person to produce to a peace officer named in the order a document that is a copy of a document that is in their possession or control when they receive the order, or to prepare and produce a document that contains data that is in their possession or control at that time.
I must first address the matter that all search requests can be done on an ex parte application. That is to say, they can go to a justice of the peace without the knowledge of the member who is to be investigated. Those members will not have an opportunity to defend themselves or to explain their position before the order is issued.
Bill C-60, which is currently before the Finance Committee, actually eliminates ex parte applications in relation to the Income Tax Act and the Excise Act of 2001, because ex parte applications are deemed to be contrary to natural justice. This is contrary to the normal course of letting someone know that he or she is being investigated and providing an opportunity to be heard. Clearly, because of the type of procedure, it is contrary to our basic concept of justice. They are being eliminated in one place but being introduced in another place, the RCMP Act.
Tom Stamatakis, President of the Canadian Police Association, who appeared before us, expressed his concerns over this provision during our committee proceedings. He believes this is an unnecessary step, and I am inclined, honourable senators, to agree with him.
To further muddy the waters, proposed section 40.4(1) states:
An order made under subsection 40.3(1) may —
I emphasize the word "may."
— contain any conditions that the justice considers appropriate including conditions to protect a privileged communication between a person who is qualified to give legal advice and their client.
Privileged communication "may" be protected suggests to me that it may not. If it may not be protected, honourable senators, that goes fundamentally against a very long-standing rule that one can have communication with his or her lawyer, and that is private between the individual and the person giving the legal advice.
The protection of communication between the individual and his or her legal counsel is a matter of fundamental natural justice. This bill is written in a way that gives members of the RCMP lesser rights than Canadian citizens, those whom RCMP members risk their lives to protect.
To complicate matters further, proposed section 40.2(2), which deals with the application for a warrant, states, "The application must indicate whether or not the place is a dwelling-house."
This is when they wish to go in and seize materials and documents. There are no restrictions in the act related to searching a dwelling place. All it puts in there is that the application should state that it is a dwelling place, but then they can go on and do everything they do everywhere else, what they do in a warehouse, they could do in a car or a dwelling place. Normally, when it is required to state a dwelling place, then there are special rules with respect to searching a dwelling place: Do not invade the very sanctity of the individual's home and dwelling place.
Section 45.16(10) states, ". . . the Commissioner may rescind or amend the Commissioner's decision..."
There is a commission, and there is also the Commissioner of the RCMP. I looked to the French version of this in the bill.
The Hon. the Speaker pro tempore: I regret to inform the honourable senator that his time for speaking has expired.
Senator Day: I wonder if honourable senators would agree to allow me more time to finish this particular item.
An Hon. Senator: Five minutes.
Hon. Senators: Agreed.
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Senator Day: Honourable senators, the English of this reads:
. . . the Commissioner may rescind or amend the Commissioner's decision. . .
That suggests that the commissioner is amending someone else's decision, but in French it states:
Malgré le paragraphe 9, le commissaire peut annuler ou modifier sa décision.
In French it says the commissioner can modify his decision; in English it says the commissioner can modify the commissioner's decision. I suggest that that is one area that can be cleaned up. If it is intended that the French is reflected in the English, it is not, as it currently stands.
There is also the matter of proposed section 86 in Part 2 of the bill. I will try to conclude with this, honourable senators. I could point out many other areas that are ambiguous at best, but section 86 deals with persons deemed to be appointed under the Public Service Employment Act.
Honourable senators have to understand that there are uniformed RCMP, non-uniformed RCMP called civilian members, and then employees of the RCMP who are public servants. My honourable friends have probably all received many letters from civilian members of the RCMP. Civilian members are an important part of the RCMP. I have one letter here from a civilian member who worked for the intelligence-led policing part of the RCMP. She states that as intelligence analysts, "our role is a complex criminal investigatory role." They are sworn members the RCMP who have made commitments with respect to their pensions and the length of time that they would work within the RCMP. This bill is attempting to deem them out of existence.
That is the most important aspect of this bill that we can correct here. That is what I am hoping honourable senators will agree to do, namely remove that particular aspect of this bill.
I can point out a number of other amendments that we could propose, but in the interest of getting to the nub of the issue, I will not to propose the amendments that were proposed at committee and were voted down.
I remind honourable senators that there are observations. When we reported the bill, there were observations showing our unease with respect to some of these points in the bill, but we said there are some good points in the bill as well and it is moving in the right direction.
Hon. Joseph A. Day: Therefore, honourable senators, I would propose, seconded by Senator Hubley, that Bill C-42, be not now read the third time but that it be amended.
Honourable senators, I can read out the amendment. It is usual that I do so, but it deals with the deeming provision in section 65 in relation to civilian members. I have tried to make provision here for allowing that category of those people who are already there to continue to exist. If the commissioner wishes to settle with them on an individual basis, then that is fine. However, they are not represented by a union because there are no unions in the RCMP. I am suggesting that they should continue to exist until they are appropriately dealt with, either by continuing that category or by letting those who are there continue in grandfathered positions with no more appointed.
Of course, there are many ways that the commissioner could handle that matter. We want to protect those civilian members of the RCMP who have signed on the line, who have dedicated their time and who have relied on the assurances that they would be members of the RCMP in the civilian category.
Honourable senators, I see that my time is up, so I will give the amendments to the clerk and the clerk can read the amendments for me.
The Hon. the Speaker pro tempore: It has been moved by the Honourable Senator Day, seconded by the Honourable Senator Hubley, that Bill C-42 be not now read a third time but that it be amended
(a) in clause 12, on page 9, by replacing line 28 with the following: "7(1)(e) of that Act, but the categories determined shall include categories of members who perform duties and functions that are substantially the same as the duties and functions performed by officers and by members other than officers on the coming into force of this section."; (b) in clause 13, on page 9, by replacing line 36 with the following: "(a) determine categories of members, which shall include categories of members who perform duties and functions that are substantially the same as the duties and functions performed by officers and by members other than officers on the coming into force of this section; and"; and (c) in clause 86, on page 118, (i) by replacing line 25 with the following: "definition reads on that date, other than a member who is a member on the day this Act is assented to, who does not", and (ii) by replacing line 32 with the following: "Canadian Mounted Police Act, other than a member who is a member on the day this Act is assented to, who does not".
Is there debate on the motion in amendment, honourable senators?
[Translation]
Hon. Pierre Claude Nolin: Would Senator Day take any questions?
[English]
The Hon. the Speaker pro tempore: Regretfully, Senator Day's extended time has expired. We are now ready for debate on the amendment.
(On motion of Senator Nolin, debate adjourned.)
Leave having been given to revert to Presenting or Tabling of Reports from Standing or Special Committees:
Hon. Elizabeth (Beth) Marshall, Chair of the Senate Committee of Selection, presented the following report:
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
The Committee of Selection has the honour to present its FOURTH REPORT Your committee recommends a change of membership to the following committees: Standing Senate Committee on Banking, Trade and Commerce The Honourable Senator Campbell replaces the Honourable Senator Harb as a member of the Standing Senate Committee on Banking, Trade and Commerce. Standing Senate Committee on Fisheries and Oceans The Honourable Senator Robichaud, P.C., replaces the Honourable Senator Harb as a member of the Standing Senate Committee on Fisheries and Oceans. Standing Senate Committee on Human Rights The Honourable Senator Munson replaces the Honourable Senator Harb as a member of the Standing Senate Committee on Human Rights. Standing Joint Committee on Scrutiny of Regulations The Honourable Senator Fraser replaces the Honourable Senator Harb as a member of the Standing Joint Committee on Scrutiny of Regulations. Respectfully submitted, ELIZABETH MARSHALL
Chair
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, when shall this report be taken into consideration?
Senator Marshall: Honourable senators, with leave of the Senate and notwithstanding rule 5-5(f), I move that the report be adopted now.
The Hon. the Speaker pro tempore: Is leave granted, honourable senators?
Hon. Senators: Agreed.
The Hon. the Speaker pro tempore: Is it your pleasure, honourable senators, to adopt the motion?
Hon. Senators: Agreed.
(Motion agreed to and report adopted.)
(1540)
[Translation]
On the Order:
Resuming debate on the motion of the Honourable Senator Mitchell, seconded by the Honourable Senator Dyck, for the second reading of Bill C-279, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Criminal Code (gender identity).
Hon. Pierre Claude Nolin: Honourable senators, it is with a steadfast belief in the vital importance of the rule of law and recognition of the human condition, and also deep respect for the differences it reveals, that I wish to participate in the debate at second reading of Bill C-279.
This private member's bill would amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to include gender identity as a prohibited ground of discrimination. It would also amend the Criminal Code to include gender identity as a distinguishing characteristic protected under section 318, which prohibits hate propaganda, and as an aggravating circumstance to be taken into consideration under section 718.2 at the time of sentencing.
Each time that Parliament is invited to pass legislation to protect individuals from discrimination, the debate becomes so emotional that some parliamentarians, in good faith, predict the worst.
That happened in 2004, when we had to make the same amendment for sexual orientation. Some went so far as to quote biblical teachings against homosexuality in support of their arguments.
An amendment was proposed and included in order to protect the legitimacy of any religious precept, despite the fact that freedom of conscience and religion is entrenched in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. This debate is no exception and, in spite of everything, clearly demonstrates the quality of our democracy and the values that underpin it.
Let us now look at the principles of the bill before us. Let us examine the notion of discrimination and the various terms used, which, I allow, can make things very confusing. The ordinary meaning of discrimination is to treat unequally or negatively one or several individuals. More specifically, it means distinguishing one social group from others on the basis of extrinsic characteristics such as wealth, education, place of residence and so on, or intrinsic characteristics such as sex or ethnic origin, in order to treat that group in a specific and usually negative manner.
Therefore, in everyday language, to discriminate means to make a distinction. However, in legal language, to discriminate means to treat someone negatively upon a prohibited ground.
To discriminate is not merely to make a distinction, because a distinction is not prohibited in itself and does not always amount to discrimination.
Indeed, some individuals may be treated differently from others in a perfectly acceptable fashion. Discrimination does not merely amount to unequal treatment. A difference in treatment may be illegitimate, yet not constitute discrimination. Sanctioning it, when possible, is not a matter of law.
A distinction or a difference in treatment only becomes discrimination when it is prohibited. Discrimination occurs when an unfavourable difference in treatment is illegitimate and is based on a criterion prohibited under the law as a ground of discrimination. It is the combination of all these elements that creates discrimination in the legal sense of the term.
The use of the expression "distinction illicite" in the French version of the Canadian Human Rights Act, which is translated as "prohibited grounds of discrimination" in the English version, shows this attempt to eliminate any confusion.
In order to avoid any confusion and to establish its principle, the proscribed or prohibited nature of the distinction or discrimination is made quite clear in the wording of section 3(1) of the act. I would like to read that part to the chamber. This is the current version of the act, which we are being asked to amend. Part I of this legislation states, under the heading "Proscribed Discrimination; General":
For all purposes of this Act, the prohibited grounds of discrimination are race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, disability and conviction for an offence for which a pardon has been granted or in respect of which a record suspension has been ordered.
Note that the act uses the word "prohibited" to clearly emphasize this point. Instead of using only the word "discrimination," it adds the descriptor "prohibited."
The principle of the legislation hinges on the repression of any unequal treatment based on any of the prohibited grounds.
It is extremely important to specify that the principle of equality is also enshrined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
I shall quote just one phrase from section 15 of the Charter, which clearly states:
Every individual...has the right to the equal protection and equal benefit of the law without discrimination...
I will come back to this point a little later in my presentation.
[English]
Let us now examine briefly the notion of gender identity. Clause 2(2) and clause 3 of the proposed legislation are both proposing to define it as follows:
... "gender identity" means, in respect of an individual, —
— and the word "individual" is used in the Canadian Human Rights Act and "person" in the Criminal Code —
— the individual's deeply felt internal and individual experience of gender, which may or may not correspond with the sex that the individual was assigned at birth.
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For psychologists, gender identity is a person's private sense of and subjective experience of their own gender. This is generally described as one's private sense of being a man or a woman, consisting primarily of the acceptance of membership into a category of people, male or female.
All societies have a set of gender categories that can serve as the basis of the formation of a social identity in relation to other members of society. In most societies, there is a basic division between gender attributes assigned to males and females. In all societies, however, some individuals do not identify with some or all of the aspects of gender that are assigned to their biological sex. The committee will undoubtedly examine thoroughly this aspect of the human condition.
[Translation]
Section 2 of the Canadian Human Rights Act already sets out the notion of equality as follows:
The purpose of this Act is to extend the laws in Canada to give effect, within the purview of matters coming within the legislative authority of Parliament, to the principle that all individuals should have an opportunity equal with other individuals to make for themselves the lives that they are able and wish to have and to have their needs accommodated, consistent with their duties and obligations as members of society, without being hindered in or prevented from doing so by discriminatory practices based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, disability or conviction for an offence for which a pardon has been granted or in respect of which a record suspension has been ordered.
Should we add gender identity to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination and thus guarantee equality to any individual whose deeply felt internal and individual experience of gender may not correspond with the sex that the individual was assigned at birth, especially if that discrimination is a source of prejudice and causes a strike against that individual's fundamental human dignity and freedom? For me, the answer is a simple "yes."
I cannot accept the idea that there are any grounds that should deny an individual the opportunity to make the life they wish to have. It is my duty to legislate and render such discrimination a prohibited ground of discrimination. Our charter is the driving force behind that.
[English]
It is my duty to render such discrimination a prohibited ground of discrimination.
[Translation]
Is this bill necessary? I cannot avoid trying to answer that question because some legislators, especially those in the other place, voted against the bill, determining that it was not needed. Some senators took part in the debate and others, with whom I have had some interesting conversations, agree with that view.
I hope that, in spite of everything, these senators recognize that some Canadians have a gender experience that differs from that of the majority and that these individuals are not given access to equal opportunities, mainly because of this deeply felt internal and individual experience of gender, which may or may not correspond with the sex they were assigned at birth. I am not asking them to agree with this situation but to recognize that it is real and that it exists.
Honourable senators, I am convinced that you understand the point of my argument. With all due respect for the interpreters, I am going to read it in both official languages.
Today in 2013, in our society that endeavours to be free, fair and democratic, if discrimination based on the gender identity of some prevents them from having an opportunity equal to that of other individuals to make for themselves the life that they are able and wish to have, to the extent of being a source of prejudice and causing a strike against the human dignity of those individuals, such discrimination must become prohibited and in so doing guarantee the equality of rights pledged for all by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
[English]
Today in 2013, in our society that endeavours to be free, fair and democratic, if discrimination based on the gender identity of some prevents them from having an opportunity equal to that of other individuals to make for themselves the life that they are able and wish to have, to the extent of being a source of prejudice and causing a strike against the human dignity of those individuals, such discrimination must become prohibited and in so doing guarantee the equality of rights pledged for all by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
[Translation]
In order to conduct the most reliable study possible of Bill C-279, the committee that will be given the responsibility of thoroughly examining this bill should, first, recognize and document these individuals' particular gender experience; second, learn about the impact that such discrimination would have on them, namely, whether it would be a source of prejudice, put them at a disadvantage, undermine their dignity or infringe on their basic human freedom; and third, determine that this discrimination must be prohibited and added to the list of prohibited grounds already set out in the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Criminal Code.
[English]
Having in mind the constitutional principle and supremacy of the rule of law and recognizing and accepting the different human genders, I humbly ask honourable senators to vote in favour of the second reading of Bill C-279. Thank you for considering my plea.
[Translation]
Honourable senators, thank you for your close attention.
[English]
I will try my best to offer intelligent and coherent answers to any questions.
Hon. Claude Carignan (Deputy Leader of the Government): Honourable senators, if there are no questions, I move the adjournment of the debate in the name of Senator Nancy Ruth.
(On motion of Senator Carignan, for Senator Nancy Ruth, debate adjourned.)
On the Order:
Resuming debate on the motion of the Honourable Senator LeBreton, P.C., seconded by the Honourable Senator Carignan, for the adoption of the twenty-fifth report of the Standing Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration (Policies and guidelines relating to Senators' travel), presented in the Senate on May 9, 2013.
Some Hon. Senators: Question.
The Hon. the Speaker pro tempore: Are honourable senators ready for the question?
Some Hon. Senators: Yes.
The Hon. the Speaker pro tempore: It has been moved by the Honourable Senator LeBreton, seconded by the Honourable Senator Carignan, that the twenty-fifth report of the Standing Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration (Policies and guidelines relating to Senators' travel), presented in the Senate on May 9, 2013, be now adopted.
Is it your pleasure, honourable senators, to adopt the motion?
Some Hon. Senators: Agreed.
Some Hon. Senators: No.
The Hon. the Speaker pro tempore: Will those in favour of the motion say "yea."
Some Hon. Senators: Yea.
The Hon. the Speaker pro tempore: Contrary minded, say "nay."
The yeas have it.
And two honourable senators having risen:
The Hon. the Speaker pro tempore: Have the whips determined the time of the vote?
Senator Marshall: Thirty minutes.
An Hon. Senator: Ten minutes.
Senator Munson: No, we have committee. Thirty minutes.
The Hon. the Speaker pro tempore: Honourable senators, there is agreement between the whips that the bells ring for 30 minutes. The vote will take place at 4:28 p.m.
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Motion agreed to on the following division:
YEAS
THE HONOURABLE SENATORS
Andreychuk LeBreton Ataullahjan Maltais Batters Manning Bellemare Marshall Beyak Martin Black McInnis Boisvenu McIntyre Braley Mercer Buth Meredith Callbeck Mockler Campbell Moore Carignan Munson Champagne Nancy Ruth Chaput Ngo Charette-Poulin Nolin Comeau Ogilvie Cordy Oh Cowan Oliver Dagenais Plett Dallaire Poirier Dawson Raine Demers Ringuette Downe Rivard Doyle Rivest Duffy Robichaud Dyck Runciman Eaton Segal Eggleton Seidman Enverga Seth Fortin-Duplessis Smith (Cobourg) Fraser Smith (Saurel) Furey Stewart Olsen Gerstein Tannas Greene Tardif Hervieux-Payette Tkachuk Housakos Verner Hubley Wallace Jaffer Watt Joyal Wells Lang White—80
NAYS
THE HONOURABLE SENATORS
Nil
ABSTENTIONS
THE HONOURABLE SENATORS
Cools Harb—2
(1630)
On the Order:
Resuming debate on the motion of the Honourable Senator Stewart Olsen, seconded by the Honourable Senator Ogilvie, for the adoption of the twenty-fourth report of the Standing Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration (Examination of Senator Harb's Primary and Secondary Residence Status), presented in the Senate on May 9, 2013; And on the motion in amendment of the Honourable Senator McCoy, seconded by the Honourable Senator Cools, that the report be not now adopted, but that it be referred back to the Standing Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration for further consideration and report.
Hon. Anne C. Cools: Honourable senators, this motion in amendment is standing in my name, and I wish to adjourn the debate because I am simply not ready to speak.
I move that the item continue to stand in my name.
(On motion of Senator Cools, debate adjourned.)
[Translation]
On the Order:
Resuming debate on the inquiry of the Honourable Senator Oliver, calling the attention of the Senate to the need to engage in a national conversation to call for the elimination of violence against women, of all ages, in all its forms including physical, sexual, or psychological abuse, and, in particular, on how we, as a national legislative body, can take the lead in educating, preventing, increasing national and global awareness on gender equality and reaffirming that violence against women constitutes a violation of the rights and fundamental freedoms of each individual.
Hon. Suzanne Fortin-Duplessis: Honourable senators, I wish to speak today to take part in the debate raised by Senator Oliver calling for the elimination of violence against women.
Many aspects of his speech resonated with me, including the story of Rehtaeh Parsons' tragic suicide. I felt compelled to mention this sad story, which was reported in the media around the world.
I want to take a moment to offer my sincere condolences to the family and friends of young Rehtaeh.
Rehtaeh's death will forever be unacceptable. Today, I would like to join Senator Oliver in stating loud and clear that we will not tolerate violence against women.
Canada is among the best countries in the world when it comes to quality of life. We believe in tolerance, justice, and helping the less fortunate. We share a set of values, such as pride and belief in equality and diversity and respect for all members of our society. These values define our identity.
Men, women, children and seniors are all respected in Canada. Despite our individual differences, we all share these values that make Canada a welcoming and compassionate country and a great place to live.
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We benefit from this quality of life while keeping a close eye on the issues that even a safe and peaceful country like Canada must face. This is because we, Canadians, are seeking a better life not just for ourselves, but also for our children and for future generations.
No one aware of the issues could be unmoved. According to Statistics Canada, in 2011, women were 11 times more likely than men to be victims of sexual assault and three times more likely to be victims of criminal harassment.
According to police data, young women are more at risk of being victims of violence. In fact, 15 per cent to 25 per cent of female students attending university will be victims of sexual assault. This means that more than one out of every five women will see her life changed forever. That is unthinkable.
To address this problem, last year Status of Women Canada called for proposals to mobilize young people to prevent violence against female students on campuses. Last November, I had the opportunity to announce that a project proposed by Montreal's YWCA had been selected.
Over $185,000 was given for the MobiliCampus project, which targets students at three CEGEPs in Montreal. Together, these three institutions are active partners in trying to prevent violence against female students. When I met the people responsible for this project, I also learned that many sexual assaults occurring on campuses take place during the first eight weeks after classes have begun.
Moreover, 25 per cent of female students over 18 years of age are said to be victims of violence in their relationships. Emotional or psychological violence is common in young people's relationships in college and university. It is defined as insulting, verbally abusing, belittling or threatening a person, or even destroying someone's property or isolating someone from his or her friends and family members.
According to a report released in 2002, emotional violence is so prevalent in relationships that young women basically find it normal. It is essential to reverse these patterns and to state loudly and clearly that no form of violence will be tolerated.
To do that, it is crucial that our government support projects such as the Montreal YWCA's. We must join with the institutions and organizations that are active on the ground, and we must rally our knowledge, our know how and our resources, sparing no effort as we confront a cycle of violence that is all too often accompanied by the victims' silence.
In this regard, the Government of Canada has taken several measures to protect, prevent and reduce violence against women and girls. Among other initiatives, it has strengthened criminal legislation to increase certain penalties for violent crimes.
The government also raised the age of consent to sexual relations and enhanced measures enabling those in the legal system to manage the threat posed by high risk sexual and violent offenders more efficiently.
The Government of Canada also supports several community projects and initiatives to deal with new issues, such as the so-called "honour" crimes, and to engage men and boys in the prevention of this type of violence. Our government is also working hard to fight violence against Aboriginal women and girls, and it continues to believe that the measures put forward in the areas of education, housing and health will help prevent violence against these women.
Once again, the statistics are shocking: the risk of violence is higher for Aboriginal women, who are three and a half times more likely to be victims of violence than non-Aboriginal women. A disproportionately high number of Aboriginal women are victims of homicide, and Aboriginal women are also three times more likely to be victims of domestic violence than non-Aboriginal women.
The Government of Canada has committed to taking concrete steps to address the issue of missing and murdered Aboriginal women by improving the responses of both law enforcement and the justice system to missing persons cases.
The House of Commons established the Special Committee on Violence Against Indigenous Women, which started work in April. The committee is mandated to hold hearings on the issue of missing and murdered Aboriginal women in Canada and to propose solutions to address the root causes of violence.
A recently released Human Rights Watch report on this scourge indicated that 582 Aboriginal women have gone missing or were murdered in the past few decades, 39 per cent of them since 2000. If we transposed this figure to the general Canadian population, it would mean that 18,000 Canadian women and girls would have gone missing or been murdered since the end of the 1970s. These figures are completely unacceptable. Poverty, unemployment and racism are among the causes of this phenomenon. Once again, we must provide leadership to identify the causes of this violence and implement the necessary resources to eliminate it.
Violence against women remains a problem in Canada and around the world, compromising women's personal safety and affecting their ability to participate in and contribute to society. Canada is working with other countries to implement measures to protect the rights of children and young people, especially girls, who could be victims of violence and exploitation.
As parliamentarians, I believe it is our duty to make men and women around the world more aware of this type of violence and mobilize them against it.
Last March, I attended the fifty-seventh session of the Commission on the Status of Women. This commission brought together thousands of representatives of the United Nations, governments, civil society, media and the private sector from all over the world. One of the main objectives of this session was to study the elimination and prevention of all forms of violence against women and girls.
This basic exercise was an opportunity to review progress made, share experiences and best practices, analyse shortcomings and challenges to be addressed, and agree on priority actions to eliminate this scourge forever.
The UN Secretary-General reminded us that the global pandemic of violence against women all too often flourishes in a culture of discrimination and impunity. That is why we must rise up forcefully against all forms of violence and introduce solid legislation and education and prevention services so that women and girls can live without the threat of violence.
Steps have been taken throughout the world, but much remains to be done.
(1650)
By working together, we can advance this cause, because it is essential to promote equality in every respect for women throughout the world.
On a more personal note, I would like to speak to you about an initiative that I am sponsoring, and that is the creation of a web series called Vixit.
"Vixit" is a Latin word meaning "she has lived." The series is based on girls' real-life stories as told to screenwriters and authors. The purpose of this initiative is to support and promote a better understanding of the specific problems young girls face.
A total of nine short videos will be available online and can be shown in classrooms. The videos showcase young people, their passion and their creativity. They are an excellent tool for raising awareness of violence among young girls and boys.
A total of 18 themes will be explored, including bullying, sexuality, self-respect and respect for others, and social networks. This valuable initiative brings a message of hope, understanding and compassion, and it reminds young people that they are not alone.
I would like to mention in this | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
@conference {4043,
title = {A Model-Integrated Approach to Implementing Individualized Patient Care Plans Based on Guideline-Driven Clinical Decision Support and Process Management - A Progress Report},
booktitle = {2nd International Workshop on Model-Based Design of Trustworthy Health Information Systems (MOTHIS 2008)},
year = {2008},
month = {10/2008},
abstract = {Standardizing the care of patients with complex problems in hospital settings is a challenge for physicians, nurses and other medical professionals. In acute care settings such as intensive care units, the inherent problems of stabilizing and improving vital patient parameters is complicated by the division of responsibilities among different individuals and teams. The use of evidence-based guidelines for managing complex clinical problems has become the standard of practice. Computerized support for implementing such guidelines has tremendous potential. The use of model-based techniques for specifying and implementing guidelines as coordinated asynchronous processes is a promising new methodology for providing advanced clinical decision support. Combined with visual dashboards, which show the status of the implemented guidelines, a new approach to computer-supported care is possible. These techniques are being applied to the management of sepsis in acute care settings at Vanderbilt Medical Center.},
attachments = {http://www.isis.vanderbilt.edu/sites/default/files/Martin.et_.al_.MOTHIS.2008.Paper-CPM.pdf},
author = {Jason B. Martin and Mathe, Janos and Miller, Peter and Ledeczi, Akos and Weavind, Liza and Miller, Anne and David J. Maron and Nadas, Andras and Sztipanovits, Janos}
} | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
- 5*p + 5828
What is the g'th term of -1371926, -1371897, -1371850, -1371785, -1371702?
9*g**2 + 2*g - 1371937
What is the y'th term of 29509, 58973, 88437, 117901?
29464*y + 45
What is the g'th term of -8379, -10169, -15031, -24501, -40115, -63409, -95919, -139181?
-256*g**3 + 2*g - 8125
What is the p'th term of 47937371, 47937372, 47937373, 47937374?
p + 47937370
What is the b'th term of -2043, -8256, -18747, -33624, -52995, -76968, -105651?
-18*b**3 - 2031*b**2 + 6*b
What is the d'th term of 66831, 133649, 200439, 267201?
-14*d**2 + 66860*d - 15
What is the z'th term of 88590, 101497, 123008, 153123, 191842, 239165?
4302*z**2 + z + 84287
What is the a'th term of -4902, -4948, -4982, -5004, -5014, -5012, -4998?
6*a**2 - 64*a - 4844
What is the c'th term of -798683, -798626, -798569?
57*c - 798740
What is the f'th term of 100336, 100295, 100254, 100213, 100172, 100131?
-41*f + 100377
What is the o'th term of 1116086, 2232175, 3348264, 4464353?
1116089*o - 3
What is the a'th term of -44614323, -44614324, -44614325?
-a - 44614322
What is the k'th term of -8031, -16242, -24477, -32736, -41019?
-12*k**2 - 8175*k + 156
What is the p'th term of 2366151, 2366141, 2366117, 2366073, 2366003?
-p**3 - p**2 + 2366153
What is the r'th term of -2719, -10879, -24465, -43459, -67843?
3*r**3 - 2731*r**2 + 12*r - 3
What is the a'th term of -53713, -214860, -483431, -859426, -1342845, -1933688?
-53712*a**2 - 11*a + 10
What is the m'th term of -4800, -11040, -17282, -23526, -29772, -36020?
-m**2 - 6237*m + 1438
What is the y'th term of 2391, 4872, 7453, 10134, 12915?
50*y**2 + 2331*y + 10
What is the d'th term of -4815, -19360, -43603, -77544?
-4849*d**2 + 2*d + 32
What is the f'th term of 1404, 5563, 12496, 22203, 34684?
1387*f**2 - 2*f + 19
What is the k'th term of 709, 4995, 16615, 39235, 76521?
611*k**3 + k**2 + 6*k + 91
What is the g'th term of 49908, 50035, 50162, 50289?
127*g + 49781
What is the i'th term of -27713, -55414, -83093, -110738, -138337, -165878, -193349, -220738?
2*i**3 - i**2 - 27712*i - 2
What is the h'th term of 559, -991, -6777, -18917, -39529, -70731?
-353*h**3 + 921*h - 9
What is the n'th term of 409273, 409255, 409237, 409219, 409201?
-18*n + 409291
What is the v'th term of 548646, 1097252, 1645858, 2194464?
548606*v + 40
What is the b'th term of 212637, 425279, 637917, 850551, 1063181, 1275807?
-2*b**2 + 212648*b - 9
What is the d'th term of -6902065, -13804098, -20706131, -27608164, -34510197?
-6902033*d - 32
What is the n'th term of -54482, -54570, -54656, -54740?
n**2 - 91*n - 54392
What is the a'th term of 1777, 1952, 2189, 2488, 2849, 3272?
31*a**2 + 82*a + 1664
What is the t'th term of -1608, -1617, -1662, -1743, -1860?
-18*t**2 + 45*t - 1635
What is the f'th term of 6755, 13406, 20105, 26852?
24*f**2 + 6579*f + 152
What is the g'th term of 43268, 173095, 389476, 692411, 1081900?
43277*g**2 - 4*g - 5
What is the w'th term of 1437, 4829, 10547, 18591, 28961, 41657, 56679?
1163*w**2 - 97*w + 371
What is the q'th term of 282695760, 565391521, 848087282, 1130783043?
282695761*q - 1
What is the q'th term of 60049, 121579, 183107, 244633, 306157, 367679?
-q**2 + 61533*q - 1483
What is the r'th term of 75584, 605114, 2042396, 4841306, 9455720, 16339514, 25946564?
75646*r**3 + 8*r - 70
What is the g'th term of 45389, 90638, 135903, 181190, 226505, 271854, 317243?
g**3 + 2*g**2 + 45236*g + 150
What is the z'th term of -21034652, -42069300, -63103948, -84138596, -105173244, -126207892?
-21034648*z - 4
What is the s'th term of -11199609, -22399237, -33598865?
-11199628*s + 19
What is the r'th term of -3521228, -7042467, -10563720, -14084987, -17606268, -21127563, -24648872?
-7*r**2 - 3521218*r - 3
What is the z'th term of -750513, -1501042, -2251573, -3002106?
-z**2 - 750526*z + 14
What is the d'th term of 57805, 115617, 173429, 231241?
57812*d - 7
What is the c'th term of 1702, 9074, 22118, 40834, 65222, 95282, 131014?
2836*c**2 - 1136*c + 2
What is the h'th term of 43066317, 86132627, 129198939, 172265253?
h**2 + 43066307*h + 9
What is the j'th term of 909, 3432, 7647, 13554, 21153, 30444, 41427?
846*j**2 - 15*j + 78
What is the f'th term of -265356232, -530712464, -796068696?
-265356232*f
What is the j'th term of 150834, 603266, 1357312, 2412966, 3770222, 5429074, 7389516?
-j**3 + 150813*j**2 + 22
What is the b'th term of 1052985, 2105873, 3158761, 4211649, 5264537?
1052888*b + 97
What is the f'th term of 290839978, 581679961, 872519942, 1163359921, 1454199898, 1745039873, 2035879846?
-f**2 + 290839986*f - 7
What is the n'th term of -10643946, -21287883, -31931824, -42575769, -53219718?
-2*n**2 - 10643931*n - 13
What is the r'th term of 3353, 11965, 25823, 44921, 69253, 98813, 133595?
-r**3 + 2629*r**2 + 732*r - 7
What is the f'th term of -4532, -8908, -13258, -17582, -21880, -26152, -30398?
13*f**2 - 4415*f - 130
What is the t'th term of 41023, 81847, 122249, 162019, 200947, 238823, 275437, 310579?
-35*t**3 - t**2 + 41072*t - 13
What is the g'th term of -1052, -1176, -1598, -2468, -3936, -6152, -9266, -13428?
-25*g**3 + g**2 + 48*g - 1076
What is the m'th term of 13341, 13646, 13943, 14232, 14513?
-4*m**2 + 317*m + 13028
What is the f'th term of -61988, -124453, -186918, -249383?
-62465*f + 477
What is the g'th term of -29316398, -29316405, -29316412, -29316419?
-7*g - 29316391
What is the m'th term of -5355, -10704, -16051, -21396, -26739, -32080, -37419?
m**2 - 5352*m - 4
What is the g'th term of -27691, -62266, -96817, -131332, -165799, -200206, -234541?
2*g**3 - 34589*g + 6896
What is the k'th term of -34949800, -69899595, -104849390, -139799185?
-34949795*k - 5
What is the v'th term of -221413, -442796, -664151, -885478?
14*v**2 - 221425*v - 2
What is the x'th term of -3896483, -7792998, -11689515, -15586034, -19482555?
-x**2 - 3896512*x + 30
What is the y'th term of -15163135, -15163139, -15163143, -15163147, -15163151?
-4*y - 15163131
What is the z'th term of -3288091, -6576182, -9864273?
-3288091*z
What is the n'th term of -23333, -93521, -210501, -374273, -584837, -842193?
-23396*n**2 + 63
What is the y'th term of -53731844, -107463685, -161195526, -214927367, -268659208, -322391049?
-53731841*y - 3
What is the f'th term of 9996, 40137, 90390, 160755, 251232, 361821?
10056*f**2 - 27*f - 33
What is the t'th term of -5020759, -20083039, -45186837, -80332153, -125518987, -180747339, -246017209?
-5020759*t**2 - 3*t + 3
What is the j'th term of 24355068, 24355026, 24354958, 24354864, 24354744, 24354598?
-13*j**2 - 3*j + 24355084
What is the z'th term of 7244710, 14489427, 21734144?
7244717*z - 7
What is the r'th term of -331, -768, -1287, -1858, -2451, -3036?
5*r**3 - 71*r**2 - 259*r - 6
What is the p'th term of -742105087, -742105088, -742105091, -742105096, -742105103?
-p**2 + 2*p - 742105088
What is the h'th term of -28265, -56446, -84545, -112562, -140497, -168350?
41*h**2 - 28304*h - 2
What is the u'th term of 14406, 14443, 14480, 14517, 14554?
37*u + 14369
What is the y'th term of -53090080, -53090082, -53090084, -53090086?
-2*y - 53090078
What is the s'th term of 213806, 213020, 212234, 211448?
-786*s + 214592
What is the t'th term of 180, 197, 230, 291, 392, 545, 762, 1055?
2*t**3 - 4*t**2 + 15*t + 167
What is the k'th term of -107531, -215071, -322607, -430139, -537667, -645191?
2*k**2 - 107546*k + 13
What is the h'th term of 31960, 68502, 105044?
36542*h - 4582
What is the f'th term of 162025, 162537, 163049, 163561?
512*f + 161513
What is the s'th term of -63800, -63691, -63562, -63407, -63220, -62995, -62726?
s**3 + 4*s**2 + 90*s - 63895
What is the i'th term of 4035, 8095, 12149, 16197?
-3*i**2 + 4069*i - 31
What is the f'th term of 143327, 573192, 1289635, 2292656?
143289*f**2 - 2*f + 40
What is the h'th term of 2033828, 4067614, 6101400, 8135186?
2033786*h + 42
What is the o'th term of -46833, -94122, -141413, -188706, -236001?
-o**2 - 47286*o + 454
What is the y'th term of 80105, 161306, 242507, 323708?
81201*y - 1096
What is the k'th term of -37879, -77923, -117967, -158011, -198055, -238099?
-40044*k + 2165
What is the u'th term of 13569, 15876, 18183?
2307*u + 11262
What is the c'th term of -7348, -14743, -22078, -29347, -36544, -43663, -50698, -57643?
c**3 + 24*c**2 - 7474*c + 101
What is the q'th term of 1 | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Pages
Nov 3, 2009
Ministry: Giving Others What They Don’t Already Have
What Should a Congregation Following Jesus Look Like? By James Lee, with special thanks to my brother Gene Parunak (Scripture Citations from the KJV).
(This essay was written as an entry for the Energion Publications essay contest. It coincides with the release of Dave Alan Black’s new book ‘Christian Archy’ which is now set for release. Please feel free to comment, as I really desire your feedback on this entry. I sure could have put much more into it, but due to my procrastination I barely made the deadline.)
--
One of the greatest responsibilities a believer can have is their obligation of obedience to the master, our Lord Jesus Christ (Lk 9:23). Today service to the Lord is distinguished by many different labels. The modern understanding of ‘the ministry’ has become inseparable from professional vocation. Those who earnestly desire to serve within the capacity seen as the ministry may only do so through the charge of academic accomplishment and scholarly attribution.
The question of what ministry should look like in a congregation following Jesus Christ should be answered carefully. Any response to the previously made statement may draw a stark contrast to what is understood as ministry in our modern church mindset. One major point that most would agree upon is that the Lord is a perfect example of what ministry looks like. A safe assumption that most could agree upon is that ministry is a calling inseparable from the walk that Christ draws us into through salvation. This ministry of our Lord is rightly labeled servitude, and this example should be our primary foundation.
In the New Testament (majority text), I have found the word diakonia is consistently translated ministry, or a form thereof. A few examples illustrate that the translators have responded to the context of its usage by using the word serving (Lk 10:40), ministration (Acts 6:1, 2Co 3:7,8,9, 9:13), relief of service (Acts 11:29), office (Rom 11:13), service or serving (Rom 15:31, 2Co 11:8, Rev 2:19), and administrations (1Co 12:5, 2Co 9:12). These variations are not empirical evidence that ministry is a responsibility of any particular individual of special accomplishment, but that service or ministry is a task given individuals of varying capabilities amongst all those who are followers of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is these followers that are given diverse gifts and abilities in which they may perform the acts of ministry in cooperation with God that works with all in all (1Co 12:6).
The concept of what ministry looks like is much simpler than we have made it in our modern context. One must only appeal to the example of ministry in the scripture. It is often a travesty that cultural contextualizing and argumentation dismiss the specific yet simple demonstrations given to us through the teachings of our Lord, the doctrine of the Apostles, and the clear power of the Holy Spirit moving through the ministry performed by true followers of the Way. The truth of ministry is not fundamentally about what we are or what we do. It is the power of the Gospel transforming hearts and minds and the renewal of true compassion for those who are lost and dying. The ministry of a congregation following Jesus Christ today is a restored definition in a depraved mind of who mankind really is before a Holy and Wrath filled Judge. With this new understanding, ministry therefore becomes a calling for all those who have seen what they have been spared from, and then compels them so powerfully in the soul that it drives us to serve others. And, of higher significance, the ministry to each other, the called out ones, becomes one of such importance that without the building up, edification, and equipping of the saints we will wither away and become useless salt that has lost its savour (Mt 5:13).
The answer that we must return to a replicated state of practice that mirrors the exact practices of the 1st century church is admirable and serves as a measuring line. But, the truth is that community now is different than community then and we must make provision for this. Regardless of the pragmatism employed today or tomorrow we should not lose sight of what ministry is. Edmund P. Clowney in "The Church (Contours of Christian Theology)" stated,
Critics of 'churchianity' hold that institutional structure freezes the flowing streams of the Spirit. The task of the church is indeed spiritual, as we have seen: to worship God, to nurture the people of God, and to bear witness to the world in mission. Yet no less spiritual are the means that Christ has provided by which we are to achieve these three goals. The Spirit of Christ brings order, as well as ardour. (p. 199)
The truth of the matter is simple is it not? Should it be as simple as continuing steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking bread, and in prayers (Acts 2:42)? Of course we should! But, we must not become too far removed, nor too religious with our practice of order through the power of man, but seek that which will glorify Christ through the instruction of the Spirit. It is my premise that ministry in a modern congregation following Jesus can be described as merely giving to others what they do not already have. Visiting the inspired words of scripture to seek an example that will draw out just that could show us how and what we need to exemplify as believers that may 'serve' and 'minister' to others and our brethren what they do not already have.
Ministry in today's context should be powerful and able to convict leaders and rulers of their wickedness. We as believers must be faithful to the conviction of the Spirit through the proclamation of truth from God's word.
But some days later Felix arrived with Drusilla, his wife who was a Jewess, and sent for Paul and heard him speak about faith in Christ Jesus. But as he was discussing righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix became frightened and said, "Go away for the present, and when I find time I will summon you."
(Acts 24:24-25)
Ministry in today's context should be powerful and able to convict false prophets of their error and stir them to fear the truth of the Living God.
Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him, And said, O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord? And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand. Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.
(Acts 13:9-12)
Ministry in today's context should be wrought through the example of its members and create an example that warrants attention for its vast departure from the ways of the world, and by doing so exhibits things that become sound doctrine (Titus 2:1).
For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.
(Tit 2:11-15)
So, with reluctant conclusion to the points made here, service and ministry are very much one in the same. While they can be labeled with different characteristics, forms, and functions, they should achieve the same purpose. This purpose is often confused or much too often separated so far from each other that there is more 'service' than 'ministry' or vice versa. I admire Edmund P. Clowney's writings for the sheer fact that his words are sound and exhibit a true desire to retain a 'true ministry' that glorifies God. He says,
The three goals of the church are to be sought not only through the Word, but also in the obedience of love. When they are so sought, a ministry of order with result. The Lord rejects the worship of those who honor him with their lips, but who do not love and honour him in their hearts and lives (Is. 26:13). We nurture one another by deeds of love, not just by sharing Scripture texts. In the mission of the church, deeds and words combine in our witness (Phil. 2:15). Love that is real requires accountability, and accountability means order. The discipline of the church appears in the love that Christians show for one another, in encouraging, counselling, asking, 'How are you doing?' and looking for answer. (p. 200)(sic)
This aptly demonstrates the need for our ministry to each other and provides a point of commonality that will equip us to be true salt and light in the world while loving each other. We cannot accomplish the tasks of discipleship and proclamation of the Gospel through political agendas, legislated morality, bully pulpits, and sectarian distinctions that scream we are right and you are wrong. We can only accomplish true ministry in this century through the power of Christ, His Holy Spirit, and a love for one another that strengthens us to face the enemy head on, and storm the gates of hell with the victory that was wrought in the spotless Lamb's blood.
1 comment:
"The truth of ministry is not fundamentally about what we are or what we do. It is the power of the Gospel transforming hearts and minds and the renewal of true compassion for those who are lost and dying."
What we are=a special serving position and what we do= some form of ministry over and above the other.
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The new documentary-styled film produced by Living Waters officially releases for free viewing today. I would strongly encourage you to view...
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If you click one of the links below and order from the vendor, I will receive a percentage of your purchase. Of course, any proceeds from sales will go toward maintenance of this site and evangelism resources. Generally, the featured Amazon book will be one I am currently reading. Thanks! | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
SURAT: Asmita Baa Gohil, who is known as the "Lady Don" of Surat, has been grabbing headlines after she was recently caught on camera brandishing a sword and threatening people of her locality. This sword-wielding 20-year-old lady don, who loves to ride a bike, was caught on camera along with her friend threatening local shopkeepers and demanding protection money from them in Varsha Society in Surat's Varachha.
A complaint was registered against her after the video became viral on the social media following which she was arrested by the local police.
''A 20-year-old girl and her friend have been arrested for threatening a shopkeeper, extorting Rs 500 and forcing him to shut his shop in Gujarat, '' the police said.
In the viral video clip, Asmita Gohil can be seen riding pillion on a bike with her boyfriend Rahul.
The two can be seen going back and forth on their bike. They suddenly stop outside a pan seller's shop where Asmita threatens him with a sword and forces him to close his shop.
On many occasions in past, the lady don was seen openly threatening people with a weapon.
In one such video recorded in March, Asmita was seen abusing and wielding a billhook blade and her friend Sanjay Gohil holding a kitchen knife during a fracas with a group of men on Holi.
They were then booked for inciting riots and arrested. However, both of them later got bail.
"A lot of cases have been registered against this woman. Her past is riddled with criminal activities," a police officer was quoted as saying by ANI.
According to her Facebook account, Asmita Baa Gohil is "self-employed" and has over 2,500 friends and 12,000 followers.
Her bio reads, "Our way of life is different, we don't live by expectations, we live on our own terms."
On her Facebook post, she has posted numerous photographs in which she is flaunting weapons like pistols, swords, knives. She also loves to pose with expensive cars and bikes.
(With ANI inputs) | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
Synthesis and resolution of racemic eliprodil and evaluation of the enantiomers of eliprodil as NMDA receptor antagonists.
A short synthesis of the NMDA receptor antagonist (rac)-Eliprodil (9) and its resolution into the enantiomers by chiral HPLC is described. The enantiomers (R)-9 and (S)-9 were found to exhibit markedly different affinities for NR2B subunit containing NMDA receptors. | null | minipile | NaturalLanguage | mit | null |
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