text
stringlengths 0
7.84M
| meta
dict |
|---|---|
We loved the Perfecto Cigar Holder the minute we saw it. Not only is it a high quality,
U.S.A. made product at a great price, but it is also the only cigar holder we know of that
doesn't clamp to your cigar - it cradles it. Other cigar clips pinch your cigar. Not only
does this require more effort to place and remove the cigar, it may also damage the
wrapper. Think of the Perfecto Cigar Holder as your take anywhere “ashtray on the go.”
Perfecto Cigar Holder is 100% made in the U.S.A. from first run virgin nylon, which is
immune to UV rays and rust and will not burn from the heat of the cigar. It holds the
cherry of your cigar above the ashtray to keep it burning evenly while it is cradled.
It clamps to almost anything, so it is great for golf carts, boats, RV's, lawn chairs, or just
about anywhere you can use a third hand. It’s great on the driving range too. Just clamp
it to the head of your driver!
Most golf bags have a series of snaps going around the top for the rain-hood. These snaps are all the same size, and are hardly used. All HeaterHolders are made with the matching snap socket. Just "click" it on and connect the safety chain, -you're done!
3" in length with a 4" safety chain and threaded clasp. Easily cradles whatever golf cigar you throw at it. Made from hardened stainless steel, then polished to a beautiful shine. This HeaterHolder is practically indestructible, good looking and will never rust. A best seller!
Most golf bags have a series of snaps going around the top for the rain-hood. These snaps are all the same size, and are hardly used. All HeaterHolders are made with the matching snap socket. Just "click" it on and connect the safety chain, -you're done!
3" in length with a 4" safety chain and a jewelry-style clasp. This gold plated cigar holder has an attractive beaded front edge, and holds up to a 54 ring cigar in style! Polished to a beautiful shine, this cigar holder is very sharp.
Most golf bags have a series of snaps going around the top for the rain-hood. These snaps are all the same size, and are hardly used. All HeaterHolders are made with the matching snap socket. Just "click" it on and connect the safety chain, -you're done!
3" in length with a 4" safety chain and a jewelry-style clasp. This silver plated cigar holder has an attractive beaded front edge, and holds up to a 54 ring cigar in style! Polished to a beautiful shine, this cigar holder is very sharp.
Treat your favorite cigars in high fashion! Solid sterling body, chain and clasp will hold your premium cigar in the manner in which it deserves. This HeaterHolder is as a much a piece of jewelry, as a great way to hold your cigar.
3" in length with a 4" safety chain and a jewelry-style clasp. This solid sterling silver cigar holder has an attractive beaded front edge, and holds up to a 54 ring cigar in style! Polished to a beautiful shine, this cigar holder is very sharp.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
Tarot Cards are amazing. They can be found throughout the game, be it early floors or towards the end, and can be helpful/life saving at all times.
Given that info, ranking them is no small feat but lets give it a shot. These are the Major Arcana cards, which look like this on the floor:
All these cards are consumables, and can be used once barring Blank Card or Endless Nameless
Also, this ranking is strongly my opinion and based on my style of play. You might have a completely different ordering and thats perfectly acceptable
21. The Magician
Gives Isaac homing tears for the room. The effect is fairly good, and homing with tear effects such as Brimstone or Tech is godly. However it does not stack (how would it even) in case you already have homing through various other sources. And homing helps you land more shots but doesn’t increase your DPS through much else. So it firmly comes in at last place for me
20. The Tower
Spawns 6 Troll Bombs throughout the room randomly, similar to Anarchist Cookbook. A decent way to try accomplish many different things. Dunk enemies around the room, break obstacles or secret room door, or get 6 free bombs if you have Safety Scissors held. However barring the last, its not reliable. It can miss every opponent and obstacle worth breaking, and smack you in the face instead. Even with explosion immunity its alright at best
19. Death
Deals 40 damage to all enemies in the room. Pretty decent early game, when you don’t have tear effects like piercing or high damage and could be overwhelmed by enemy mobs. Usefulness drops off the cliff once the mobs get strong enough, even as early as third floor onwards. However it has zero downsides to it so its never a bad one-use no regrets card
18. Wheel of Fortune
A tricky one to place. Spawns an arcade machine (slot machine or fortune teller). This one scales in usefulness the further you progress. If you have the coin, Khaljit the machine has the wares. Slot machines can give you handy consumables or even a Pretty Fly orbital. Fortune tellers can give you cards and runes, trinkets and even soul hearts. And on the Chest/Dark Room, blowing up either with a bomb gives a free item. However its unpredictability prevents it from a higher rating
17. The Lovers
Not as tragic, but surprisingly slept on. Spawns 2 red hearts on the floor. If you are playing a red heart container build its fairly obviously good. Also helps with demon beggars/blood donation machines/IV bag for items and coins. But even if you are playing a soul/black heart build, it can be used. You have to find one of the super secret rooms which have the Library/Angel floor layout. Using this card will spawn black/soul hearts x2 instead of red hearts. The latter advantage is slightly unreliable but a solid card nonetheless
16. The Hanged Man
Decapitates Isaac, leaving him as a floating head with flight for the current room. Flight is always amazing. It helps with manoeuvring around enemies, especially if you float over rocks. But it also allows you to pick up inaccessible consumables and items. Some items in fact are impossible to reach without flight, and this annoying room design is prevalent in the Basement:
15. Justice
Spawns a heart, a coin, a bomb and a key on the ground. Also plays the Justice League (TV series) theme song in my head but that might just be me.
Pretty straightforward in its utility. However the consumables dropped aren’t fixed. You can get a golden bomb, charged key, nickel/dime, and any heart. So it has decent utility especially early on (beware: can spawn a troll bomb)
14. The Devil
Grants a +2 to Isaac’s damage for the room, and makes him look very cool. Tempted to put it higher for the looks aspect. A very solid one time use, can be very helpful for extra DPS with no downsides. However its only a damage upgrade and does not stack with either multiple uses of itself or Book of Belial. Save it for bosses
13. The Empress
God save the Queen. But maybe she doesn’t need it, with an increase to damage and speed, and a cool pair of horns. Gives a little less damage than The Devil, but stacks with Whore of Babylon and itself which makes it very OP with Blank Card
12. The World
Time has stopped. Sadly not the effect, it instead shows you the entire map of the floor with the exception of the Super Secret Room. A very handy benefit, if you have low health you can now reach the boss most efficiently. If you have a single key and want to differentiate a shop or a library, a dice room versus something else. And its not redundant unless you have The Mind. Completely ruined by Amnesia/Curse of the Lost though
11. The Fool
Teleports you out of any room and back to the starting room of the current floor. All the teleport items are clubbed together, and The Fool is the least helpful of them all. Mostly good for escaping Curse Rooms and Challenge Rooms
10. The Stars
Teleports you to the Item Room if the floor has one, or a random non-special room if it doesn’t. Saves you one key and gives you an item for the floor right away but not much else to it. Free teleports are nice
9. The Hermit
Teleports you to the Shop if the floor has one, and random non-special room if it doesn’t. Same boat as the previous card, but slightly helpful if you aren’t sure which room is the Library and which is the Shop. Plus a saved key
8. The Moon
Teleports Isaac to the regular Secret Room of the floor. Honestly not much different from the previous two, saves a bomb instead of a key, especially when you know where to find it with experience. But it does save the confusion for beginners and intermediates, and even experienced, lazy players when they can’t see the map
7. The High Priestess
Summons Mom’s foot to smash down one enemy, hitting everything it smashes for a whopping 300 damage. Thats an easy boss-dunker right there, even for later floors. Just make sure there aren’t other enemies away from the boss when you use it. It can also act as an emergency bomb if you truly need it, and the cost of getting Isaac some head trauma. Just use it in a room with no enemies and Mom will lovingly stomp Isaac instead
6. The Hierophant
If you didn’t realise it yet, I really love Soul hearts, and Hierophant spawns two of them so I love it twice. Zero downsides, just don’t use them in the Super Secret Room that converts them into red hearts (unless you want to, you weirdo)
5. The Emperor
Teleports you to the Boss room for the floor. The single biggest fuck you to the entire floor: curses, mobs, layout and everything. Go straight to the boss whenever you want. Holds more value the further you progress. Extremely helpful for meeting time-constraints, be it for Boss Rush, Hush, challenges, dailies or achievements.
4. Temperance
Spawns a blood donation machine (in Greed mode it spawns a demon beggar). Extremely flexible card which can provide emergency cash at the cost of spare hearts. Given the prevalence of red hearts, it trades them for valuable coins, until it breaks. Upon breaking it gives you a full heal + health up or the IV bag, both of which are very nice additions. If you have items that proc on taking damage such as Bloody Lust (Samson) or Cambion Conception, it helps out with damage immensely.
3. The Chariot
Do you hear that Tokyo Drift music? This card gives you temporary invulnerability and contact damage, like the active item My Little Unicorn. Has a variety of uses, such as getting out of danger and if you have an orbital, obliterating your foes. It allows you to go over spikes and leave sacrifice rooms free of cost. It also lets you abuse demon beggars and blood donations for the entirety of its duration
2. Judgement
Spawns one beggar (Coin, Demon, Key or Bomb). Mostly the first two. At worst, you can bomb these beggars for an increased Devil/Angel chance and/or consumables and trinkets. But they can also be played to give a variety of goodies. Demon beggars especially give items from the Devil pool and can be very rewarding. Also, all beggars can be bombed on The Chest/Dark Room for a free item. It is recommended to play the Key Beggar on that floor, because every chest it gives is a free item
1. Strength
Do you even lift, brethren? This card gives you Magic Mushroom for a single room, with all stats increased except tears and a temporary red heart container. Does it stack with Magic Mush/Cricket’s Head? The damage multiplier doesn’t but you get a slight increase. The real utility is with the temporary red heart. It allows you to essentially steal a Devil Deal when you have no red heart containers, thereby saving you two or three Soul Hearts. You can also use it with Potato Peeler with no red hearts for a free Cube of Meat upgrade, or with Guppy’s Paw for three free Soul hearts
0. The Sun
Most items do one or two things at most. This god-tier card restores you to full health, deals a solid 100 damage to all enemies in the room and also reveals the current map for the entire floor minus the Super Secret Room. Thats like 3-4 cards worth of work in one. Always a delight to find and use instantly or save for later even
So there you have it, let me know your thoughts in the comments, whether you agree or disagree. Here is the TL;DR list:
The Sun Strength Judgement The Chariot Temperance The Emperor The Hierophant High Priestess The Moon The Hermit The Stars The Fool The World The Empress The Devil Justice The Hanged Man The Lovers Wheel of Fortune Death The Tower The Magician
|
{
"pile_set_name": "OpenWebText2"
}
|
Frechinia helianthiales
Frechinia helianthiales is a moth in the family Crambidae. It was described by Murtfeldt in 1897. It is found in North America, where it has been recorded from Arizona, Illinois, Manitoba, Missouri and Oklahoma, south to Mexico.
The length of the forewings is 6.5-8.5 mm. The forewings are white with yellowish-brown patches and some gray scales. The postmedial line is white, with a dark-grey patch inside this line containing black scales along the veins. The hindwings are white in males and dark grey in females. Adults have been recorded on wing from May to August.
The larvae feed on Helianthus species. They mine the leaves of their host plant.
References
Category:Moths described in 1897
Category:Odontiini
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Wikipedia (en)"
}
|
In an essay for the Los Angeles Review of Books, Emmett Rensin diagnoses liberalism’s paralysis as one plagued by the censorious impulse of technocratic reason. Donald Trump was the expression of the id, animated by libidinal whims, repressed desires, and resentments; the liberal establishment was the moralizing superego, directing commands toward appropriate conduct and policing discourse. Upon losing control of the id, the compulsion to fact-check and bellow “This is not normal!” into the post-truth abyss turned liberals, Rensin proclaims, into “the blathering superego at the end of history.”
Something is rotten with liberalism’s reigning manifestation, its stench discernible to everyone but itself. A sterile managerialism — signposted as what Oscar Wilde decried as “the monstrous worship of facts” — distilled in the form of policy wonkery and modish Vox explainers, had the rug yanked from under it on Nov. 8. It was an unexpected stumble across the Rubicon — one in which the ruling consensus was forsaken, crestfallen, and discombobulated within a ruptured sociopolitical milieu that was no longer recognizable.
In this political order, transgression and libertinism appeared as cathartic outlets. Irony was weaponized, and guileful wordplay camouflaged bigotry. Such was the transgressive thrill of Trumpism: the enjoyment of publicly stating what is not said openly, which tapped into what Jacques Lacan termed jouissance — the desire to go beyond the limits of publicly accepted discourse.
Unsurprisingly, the shift toward social sadism is echoed in online culture, especially with trolling. The so-called alt-right embraced trolling, shrugging off accusations of racism and sexism by adopting a sardonic dispensation to wring its hands clean from charges of prejudice. “You just don’t get it,” went the customary rebuke.
They know their liberal opponents well, homing in on their conscience and sanctimonious virtue-signaling. Witch-hunting and online harassment is employed as a popular strategy to hound feminists, social justice warriors, and other moralists. Equivalent disdain is reserved for establishment conservatives, branded “cuckservatives” for having stood pat as the positional gains of minorities emasculated White America.
Trump’s unabashed vulgarity, scorn for political correctness, and occasional deployment of alt-right memes made him a unifying symbol for this vanguard. Making sense of the shifting terrain of far-right politics demands an understanding of a fringe movement that was “memed into existence” after being thrust into the mainstream spotlight during the Trump electoral campaign.
In “Kill All Normies,’’ Irish journalist Angela Nagle attempts to carry out such a task. Nagle documents the meteoric rise of the alt-right through the turbulent online culture wars. While the movement’s indecipherable jargon led many to portray the alt-right as conservative iconoclasm as opposed to neofascism, its ideas were imported from a diverse mélange — the French New Right, the Identitarian movement, and American white nationalism — before getting truncated and popularized through anonymous forums like 4Chan.
As Nagle observes, the early iterations of this assemblage was a “strange vanguard of teenage gamers, pseudonymous swastika-posting anime lovers, ironic South Park conservatives, anti-feminist pranksters, nerdish harassers and meme-making trolls whose dark humor and love of transgression for its own sake made it hard to know what political views were genuinely held and what were merely, as they used to say, for the lulz.”
There is an inclination to reduce the alt-right’s pranksterism to a pop-cultural spectacle, as opposed to a crucible of virulent ethno-nationalism that needs to be confronted and refuted. While the profusion of irony, memes, and in-jokes does not a movement make, it is important to eschew the revulsion that characterizes much of the response to this nebulous amalgam.
Conservatism, after all, can summon a radical undercurrent when necessary. Fundamentally reactionary as opposed to rigidly traditionalist, it is willing to absorb and redirect the potency of new revolutionary actors toward counter-revolution and new relations of domination. Political scientist Corey Robin identifies this tendency in “The Reactionary Mind,” where he points out that the right is more than happy to violently upend an anemic ruling class to install a more dynamic one in its place, even if it means using the tactics and rhetoric of their ideological rivals. As Robin notes, “While conservatives are hostile to the goals of the left . . . they often are the left’s best students.”
Indeed, some of Nagle’s engaging commentary revolves around the emergence of the alt-right’s more watered down, media-friendly face that she terms the “alt-light.” She argues how the alt-right understood the significance of manufacturing an alternative culture and media ecology in response to the establishment’s cultural dominance.
From Breitbart’s Steve Bannon and Milo Yiannopoulos to Vice cofounder Gavin McInnes and InfoWars conspiratorial huckster Alex Jones, these digital-savvy alt-light figures flourished in shaping popular culture through new-media platforms. They were the self-styled new punks, fermenting a loyal right-wing fan base that had the benefit of consuming “alternative” content while steadily accumulating subcultural capital. Managerial liberalism’s failure to tackle economic disparities, while paying lip service to a fetishistic form of identity politics, paved the way for virulent forces of reaction to repackage their Weimaresque regalia into an edgier postmodern register.
However, unlike the strategies of the left that they attempt to mimic, the alt-right’s “meta-politics” is saddled with a problem of realization. How do you develop into a mass movement when you are not grounded in organizational struggle? Baiting progressives and racist troll-storms is one thing, but can it translate its success in cyberspace into political power? The evidence so far has been found wanting.
Nevertheless, the alt-right has managed to punch above its weight; the incorporeal battlefield they waged war on has had real consequences. Their mythologized conflict with conformity has them tirelessly hunting for a narrative of self-determination. Yet, by having reached a critical mass without the ability to transfer and regenerate its momentum, it appears that “meme magic” and Trump’s cantankerous tweets will have to suffice for now.
Amar Diwakar is a writer and research consultant. Follow him on Twitter @indignant_sepoy.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "OpenWebText2"
}
|
Local extension of HMGB1 in atherosclerotic lesions of human main cerebral and carotid arteries.
High mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) is a non-histone chromosomal protein which is highly conserved, ubiquitous, and widely distributed. HMGB1 has multiple functions in the nucleus, including the maintenance of nucleosome structure, the regulation of gene transcription, and involvement in DNA recombination. HMBG1 is currently recognized to have a wide range of potential functions and pathological relevance. HMGB1 is released into the extracellular space from necrotic cells and from activated macrophages. HMGB1 binds to the receptor for advanced glycation end products, resulting in the induction of inflammatory cytokines, and to endothelial cell thrombomodulin. HMGB1 neutralization may also reduce the development of atherosclerosis and ameliorate brain infarction. We investigated the immunolocalization of HMGB1 in atherosclerotic lesions of human cerebral and carotid arteries using a specific antibody, and confirmed the detailed expression and cell type localization using double immunofluorolabeling. In the main cerebral arteries, this anti-HMGB1 antibody intensely immunolabeled both normal morphological vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) within the tunica media and infiltrating VSMCs within the intima of thickened fibrous cap plaques. Endothelial cells were also positive for HMGB1. In carotid plaques, HMGB1-like immunoreactivity (IR) was intense in macrophages, although this IR decreased with increasing cell size. Medium-sized foam cells (50-150 μm) were the most intensely stained. This IR was also observed in the nuclei of foam cells and VSMCs. These findings may provide a basis for understanding the association of HMGB1 with atherosclerotic lesions of the cerebral and carotid arteries, and for constructing strategies to counteract atherosclerosis with anti-HMGB1 antibody.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
For 30 years Voss Scientific has provided scientific, engineering, and R&D support in the fields of computational physics, electromagnetics, and high energy physics.
Our products and services support the production and usage of electromagnetic and laser-based directed energy technologies, including high intensity, time-compressed phenomena in the nanosecond to femtosecond time scale range.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
What to expect from the Nokia 3, 5 and 6 launch
New Delhi: Nokia, once the world's biggest mobile manufacturer and associated with the ultra-famous 3310 and 2300 handsets, officially made their comeback in India on June 13, with the launch of their first Android smartphones. HMD Global, the distributors of the Nokia phones, launched the 3,5 and 6 with much grandeur at a 5-star in Delhi.
The 3,5 and 6, devices along with the classic 3310 were spotted during the Mobile World Congress 2017 and have remained a talking point ever since.
Made for the fans
From the pics available on twitter and HMD's official website it is confirmed that the phone is made keeping in mind harsh-weather as well as to look and feel premium. All three devices have an aluminium body and a poly-carbonate shell (Nokia 3). The 6 in fact comes with a metallic unibody finish. The three devices will run on an Android 7 Stock ROM, while promising to make monthly updates and an upgrade to Android 8 subsequently.
Picture Courtesy: Nokia.com
Specs-wise
The Nokia 3, built of a combination of an aluminium frame and a polycarbonate shell, is a 5-inch device powered by a Mediatek 6737 quad-core chipset clocked at 1.4 Ghz. On the camera front, the phone has an 8 MP rear and front camera. Expect the phone running on a 2 GB RAM, 16 Ghz storage, (expandable to 128 MB via SD card) to last a day on a 2650 mAH battery.
The phone may not excite specs-wise but what might click with customers is the brand name and the visual appeal.
Meanwhile, Nokia 5, the 5.2 inch device will be powered by a Snapdragon 430 chipset. Gaming and general users can find cheer here considering the processor is paired with an Adreno 5 GPU. In comparison with the Nokia 3, the Nokia 5 has a 13 MP rear-camera and supports NFC and fingerprint scanner.
Picture Courtesy: Nokia.com
The current top-tier Nokia phone
There are rumors that Nokia may release two variants of its current top-tier phone - the Nokia 6. The 5.5 inch flagship was displayed at the MWC in two variants- a 3GB/32 GB and 4G/64 GB. HMD global had listed the 4GB variant with the black color on its website a few days ago.
The Nokia 6 sports a 16 MP rear camera and an 8 MP on the front. The device offers support for dual speakers, and will have Dolby ATMOS along with fingerprint scanner and NFC support. Nokia's flagship Nokia 9 that runs on Qualcomm 835 is set to be released later.
Picture Courtesy: Nokia.com
Pricing
Although HMD global has not released the pricing users can expect the Nokia 3 to retail at approximately Rs. 8000. There have also been speculations on the pricing for Nokia 5 and 6. While the Nokia 5 is expected to retail around Rs 13000, the Nokia 6 may retail in the price band of Rs 16000-17000, although there is no clarity on the pricing for the top variant.
Nokia is positioning its phones as premium and "from the makers of Nokia", and hence expects users from comparing their devices with either Lenovo or Xiaomi, that would offer similar specs in the price bracket of Rs 10000-12000. But to sweeten the deal, it has promised , like we mentioned earlier, a stock android UI experience and monthly security updates.
Will it help it hold in price-conscious Indian market? We will have to wait and watch.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
Fluoxetine-induced inhibition of male rat copulatory behavior: modification by lesions of the nucleus paragigantocellularis.
In Experiment 1, the 5-HT uptake blocker fluoxetine (FLX; 20 mg/kg) reduced the proportion of sexually experienced male rats displaying ejaculations. Among those animals that did ejaculate there was an increase in intromission frequency (IF), ejaculation latency (EL), and postejaculatory interval (PEI) and a reduction in copulatory efficiency (CE) during the final copulatory sequence prior to sexual exhaustion. In Experiment 2, we found similar inhibitory effects of FLX as well as facilitating effects of lesions of the nucleus paragigantocellularis (PGi) on male rat copulatory behavior. Males with PGi lesions displayed more ejaculations and a longer latency to sexual exhaustion compared to intact animals. When FLX was given to rats with PGi lesions, it did not influence the proportion of rats ejaculating nor did it alter IF, EL, or PEI during the final copulatory series prior to exhaustion. These findings suggest that the inhibitory influences of FLX on male rat copulatory behavior are mediated in part by the interaction of FLX with neurons originating in the PGi.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
This invention relates generally to methods and apparatus for reducing electromagnetic interference (`EMI`) emissions from a digital system, and more particularly for reducing EMI emissions from clock and other synchronous signal traces for a computer or other digitally-clocked system.
Electromagnetic interference is electromagnetic energy emitted from electronic devices which, either directly or indirectly, contributes to a degradation in performance of an electronic receiver or other electronic system. EMI radiation from poorly shielded electronic devices, for example, degrade radio and television signals resulting in audible or visible static at receivers picking up such signals. Governments typically regulate EMI emissions to enhance public use of the radio wave spectrum and other electromagnetic wave spectra. In the United States, for example, the F.C.C. requires testing of devices and rates the devices by class according to their emissions. The United States F.C.C. Agency rates EMI emissions over a 120 kilohertz ("kHz") bandwidth. The 120 kHz bandwidth corresponds to the typical bandwidth of a conventional communication receiver, such as an FM receiver. Reduced EMI emissions within such bandwidth reduce the interference output, otherwise perceived by a listener or viewer as, for example, static or white noise.
Typical precautions taken by electronic manufacturers are to provide shielding of electronic devices to minimize EMI emissions. Computer manufacturers, for example, typically use shielded cables and shielded housings to minimize EMI emissions.
This invention is directed toward a digital method and apparatus for reducing detectable EMI emissions within a critical bandwidth (e.g., 120 kHz).
|
{
"pile_set_name": "USPTO Backgrounds"
}
|
Johnsonville Fossil Plant
The Johnsonville Fossil Plant was a 1.5-gigawatt (1,500 MW), coal power plant located in New Johnsonville, Tennessee in Humphreys County, Tennessee. The plant generated electricity from 1951 to 2017. It was operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA).
History
Construction of the fossil plant began in 1949. The fossil plant started commercial operations at Unit 1 on October 27, 1951. By August 1959, all ten units were operating. Its ten units had a combined operating capacity of 1.5-gigawatts (1,500 MW) with Units 1–4 providing electricity to the nearby Chemours plant. In a 2011 agreement with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to resolve lingering violation complaints in failure to comply with the Clean Air Act, the TVA announced they would shut down the coal units at Johnsonville by 2018. Units 5–10 were idled at Johnsonville in 2012 and were shut down on December 31, 2015. Units 1–4 were shut down on December 31, 2017.
See also
List of power stations in Tennessee
References
Category:Energy infrastructure completed in 1951
Category:Energy infrastructure completed in 1959
Category:Tennessee Valley Authority
Category:Buildings and structures in Humphreys County, Tennessee
Category:Former coal-fired power stations in the United States
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Wikipedia (en)"
}
|
Dating is tricky. You wanna present your best self while remaining true to said self. A first date is not the time to air every bit of dirty laundry in your proverbial hamper, but there are some things you should cover early on. Your date should be able to set expectations and decide what kind of future is possible with you, so don’t shy away from disclosing these personal factoids. (Bonus: Self-reflecting on some of these details may help you figure out what it is you want or need.)
Your intentions
Don’t outline your five-year plan or discuss your favorite baby names, but be transparent about what you’re looking for. Nothing is wrong with looking for a casual hookup, unless you’re wasting the time of someone who’s on the hunt for a LTR. In the wild world of dating, it's impossible to preserve everyone’s feelings, but aligning expectations from the jump is the next best thing.
Whom you voted for in 2016
We no longer have the luxury of filing politics under “casual conversational taboo.” We have to talk about politics. If someone is staunchly pro-life or anti-DACA, you have to know that before you get naked with them.
Whether you’re a parent
Even if you're just exploring a FWB situation, the other person should know if you have kids. Don’t wait until your date is navigating your toy-strewn apartment while Junior spends the night with your baby mama to explain.
If you’re looking for “a partner in crime”
“Partner in crime” is perhaps the most-loathed phrase of all dating-app bios, but it points to something important. Having hobbies you’re passionate about is hot—but if it turns out that said hobby is camping, and you need me to be around for/enthusiastic about it—that’s a no for me dog.
If you like guns
Not only are firearms pretty dang divisive, but NRA membership can flag several other lifestyle details a prospective partner should know about, like Justice Scalia stan-dom. Or massive disposable income.
Pet allergies/ownership
One time I was on a third, very promising date with a beautiful Canadian man when he mentioned a crippling cat allergy. This guy had inexplicably swiped right on my default Tinder photo featuring my two cats draped across my body. He actually said, “If this is going somewhere, it’s eventually going to be me or the cats.” I chose the cats. He was a delight, but I also kinda wish he didn’t waste my time with those first dates when the relationship was already doomed!
If you have an “untraditional” relationship style
Don’t wait until the second date to reveal your open marriage. Likewise, don’t wait to tell me that you live with your ex-wife. (This does happen: Dude didn’t even tell me until we were back at their shared apartment.) If you practice ethical non-monogamy or sexual anarchy, you know it can be honest and dope—but not everyone is into sharing (especially partners). Plus, if sex is on the menu and you withhold this life detail, it’s kinda dishonest.
A vague idea of where you live
No cross street needed, but if our relationship would basically be long-distance, I need to know. Just because you met me for drinks in Manhattan doesn’t mean I’m cool taking the train to the Connecticut suburbs to see you.
If you’re on the brink of a major life change
Are you poised to start a new job, or balls-deep into a separation? Mention that. Huge milestones like that can mean serious incoming stress and/or unavailability. And, for the love of all that is holy, tell your date about imminent, far-away moves.
If religion is super important (or super not) to you
Some people don’t care whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, or nothing at all—but the ones who do care tend to care very much. Even if this isn’t an issue right away, if you’re both on the long-haul path, it’ll come up eventually.
Dietary restrictions and/or sobriety
This is less a relationship-definer than a practical consideration. If you're a vegan, I want to know so I don’t suggest we meet at a steakhouse. And I want to know if you're not into booze so I don't plan a dive-bar date. Don’t sweat going deep into your radical PETA-parading college days, but do mention various restrictions in passing. No one should have an issue with someone who doesn’t do meat or cocktails, but bringing it up can be a good litmus test for closed-minded, insecure jerks.
Whether or not you even consider this a date
For some people, an initial IRL encounter might be more of a “meet and greet” than a first date. Years ago, I met a distant colleague for drinks and continued to do so—sans smooching or anything of that ilk—every few months. I didn’t realize we’d been going on dates until he randomly tried to kiss me as I sprinted down the stairs to the subway. I was so surprised that his mouth didn’t even catch mine. He got me right on the neck. It would have been helpful info to know what he was interested in before that moment. Don’t send a GCal invite explicitly stating “DATE NIGHT” (unless the date is with me—calendar invites are my love language), but you should casually convey, over text or something, that it’s a date. You can even say something cliché like “Great! It’s a date.”
Your job’s weird hours
If you bartend or have a highly neurotic boss who regularly texts—and expects a response—at 2 A.M., it’s helpful to let your date know what kind of logistical hurdles he or she can anticipate.
Your wildly specific dealbreakers
For some women, bad hats won’t fly. I know others who refuse to date people with outie belly buttons. Even if it’s something slightly superficial, if it’s actually going to turn you off from an otherwise good situation forever, speak up. Like, me, personally? Well...
If you’re a cop
Recently, I came across one Tinder bro with the Pete and Pete theme song in his bio. I swooned right up until his profession came out: Since I'm an open and frequent cannabis enthusiast, we were forced to amicably unmatch. I applaud his transparency, but it could never be.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "OpenWebText2"
}
|
Porous networks of CdSe nanocrystal chains from ultrafine Cd(OH)2 nanowires and their composite materials.
Long ultrathin Cd(OH)(2) nanowires have been selectively grown on silica colloids in a basic aqueous condition. The Cd(OH)(2) nanowires could be detached from the surface of the silica colloids by simply applying ultrasonication and then transformed into isolated CdSe nanocrystal chains. When the transformation into CdSe was conducted without detaching the Cd(OH)(2) nanowires, nanoporous CdSe shells composed of wire-like nanocrystal chains were produced. The good solubility of the Cd(OH)(2) nanowires in both hydrophilic and hydrophobic solvents facilitated the formation of composites with quantum dots, magnetic particles, organic molecules, and polymers. Embedding premade quantum dots possessed broad light absorption range and enhanced photoluminescence. Large amount of superparamagnetic particles endowed a fast magnetic response in addition to the fluorescence. Composites of organic/nanocrystal chains were readily fabricated by employing the electrostatic attraction between the positively charged Cd(OH)(2) nanowires and negatively charged polymers or small molecules.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Q:
The Hairy Ball Theorem and $RP(2)$
The Hairy Ball Theorem says, in particular, that there does not exist a continuous nonvanishing tangent vector field on $S^2$. My question is whether passing to $RP(2)$ avoids this problem. Specifically:
Let $\sim$ be a lift from $RP(2)$ to $S^2$ (I actually do not know why such a lift exists; as an aside, if someone could explain, I would be very grateful!). Does there exist a map
$g \colon RP(2) \to RP(2)$
such that if $x \in RP(2)$, then $\sim g(x)$ is perpendicular to $\sim x$?
A:
This question is ill-defined because there does not exist a lift from $RP2$ to $S^2$ as assumed in the hypotheses.
See
Why does there exist a lift from $RP(2)$ to $S^2$?
As a remark then, this question is related to the fact that since the Euler characteristic of $RP2$ is 1, every vector field on $RP2$ must have exactly one isolated zero. It is my guess that this would then answer in the negative any attempt to reformulate my question above.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "StackExchange"
}
|
Anchorage Reinforcement Post Molar Distalization.
After distalization of maxillary molars, retaining it in the new position is ofat most importance. There are various methods available to avoid taxingfreshly distilized molars. We have discussed various methods to reinforce anchorage post-molar ditalization. We have introduced a new appliance that is modified Nance palatal button for continuous distally directed force on the molars.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Q:
Insertar un carácter dentro de un archivo Python
Estoy intentando insertar un salto de linea cada vez que se encuentra cierto dígito, en este caso una ',', sin tener que reemplazar o eliminar nada, solo para darle un mejor formato al archivo, estoy utilizando write cada vez que la encuentra, pero me añade el salto de linea al final & ocupo que lo de después de que encontró la coma dentro del mismo archivo, espero puedan ayudarme
file = open('C:\\Users\\ESantana\\Documents\\lineal.json', 'r+')
cont = 0
while True:
caracter = file.read(1)
print ("Caracter obtenido:", caracter)
if caracter == ',':
file.write('\n')
if not caracter:
print ("End of file")
break
cont += 1
file.close()
A:
Ya que veo que lo que pretendes es leer un json y añadirle retornos de carro tras las comas "para darle un mejor formato" como tú dices, te daré una solución mejor para ese problema.
Utiliza el módulo json, estándar de python, para leer el archivo (y así de paso verificas que esté correcto), y ese mismo módulo para volcarlo con un mejor formato, que no sólo consiste en retornos de carro, sino también en una mejor indentación cada vez que se abre una llave o corchete.
Sería así:
import json
entrada = "C:\\Users\\ESantana\\Documents\\lineal.json"
salida = "C:\\Users\\ESantana\\Documents\\formateado.json"
with open(entrada, "r") as fichero:
datos = json.load(fichero)
with open(salida, "w") as fichero:
json.dump(datos, fichero, indent=True)
Si quieres que modifique el mismo fichero, haz salida=entrada, pero no te lo recomiendo, al menos durante las pruebas.
Actualización
Para añadir retornos de carro tras la coma, en caso de que el fichero no sea JSON válido y no pueda ser parseado adecuadamente, te recomiendo leer el contenido del fichero completo a una cadena, modificar la cadena en memoria, y volcar la nueva cadena a otro fichero. Esto es más sencillo que tratar de modificar un fichero mientras lo estás leyendo.
Por ejemplo:
entrada = "C:\\Users\\ESantana\\Documents\\lineal.json"
salida = "C:\\Users\\ESantana\\Documents\\formateado.json"
# Leer fichero completo
with open(entrada, "r") as fichero:
datos = fichero.read()
# Añadir un retorno de carro tras cada coma
datos = datos.replaceI(",", ",\n")
# Volcar resultado a otro (o el mismo) fichero
with open(salida, "w") as fichero:
fichero.write(datos)
|
{
"pile_set_name": "StackExchange"
}
|
Q:
Constructor property : __proto__.constructor vs prototype.constructor
I am fairly new to Javascript and I am trying to dig deep and understand inheritance, constructor functions and prototype chain.
So, I created a constructor function as such,
var a = function(){this.integer=1,this.float=1.0,this.string="one"}
Now, this function has a prototype.constructor property, a constructor property and a __proto__.constructor property.
I understand that the __proto__.constructor == the constructor function executed to create the function a.
Also, the prototype.constructor is the function that is executed when I create an instance of 'a' using the new keyword.
However I don't understand what the third constructor property is for. Its equal to __proto__.constructor.
Also, b.__proto__.constructor !== Object.prototype.constructor, as I thought it would be. Why is that ?
A:
a.__proto__ is the Function prototype (namely, Function.prototype). It is the object from which all functions inherit function-specific methods like call, apply, bind, etc. It is true that a.__proto__.bind == a.bind.
a.__proto__.constructor is the Function constructor, i.e., the function Function. The Function prototype has a reference to its associated constructor via the constructor property, as is always the default relationship between prototype object and constructor. (More on this "default relationship" in the next two paragraphs.)
Quite different is a.prototype -- in JavaScript, any function can be a constructor, i.e., it may be called with new. Whenever a function is called with new, it creates a new object whose __proto__ is the function's prototype and points to the newly-created object via this. So inside a call to new a() it is true that this.__proto__ equals a.prototype. This prototype object is automatically created and stored in a.prototype at the moment the function a is defined.
a.prototype.constructor is equal to a, because the JavaScript internal routine that creates prototype objects for newly-defined functions (as specified in the previous paragraph) always gives that new prototype a constructor property that refers to the newly-defined function. To get really into the weeds, the relevant ECMAScript routine is 19.2.1.1.1, CreateDynamicFunction, which notes, "A prototype property is automatically created for every function created using CreateDynamicFunction, to provide for the possibility that the function will be used as a constructor."
a does not have its own constructor property, but it automatically inherits a.__proto__.constructor accessible as a.constructor, just as it inherits any other properties on its prototype parent (just like a.bind is really a.__proto__.bind).
Finally, a.__proto__.constructor !== Object.prototype.constructor because Object.prototype is not a function object's prototypal parent, but instead Function.prototype is. It is instead true that a.__proto__.constructor === Function.prototype.constructor (and, more succinctly, a.__proto__ == Function.prototype and a.__proto__.constructor == Function).
|
{
"pile_set_name": "StackExchange"
}
|
Introduction {#Sec1}
============
Driven by the ever increasing demand for denser and faster data storage media, novel memory devices are being explored by the spintronics community. One of these novel devices is the so-called racetrack memory, a magnetic strip in which information is stored as magnetic domains that can be transported along the strip^[@CR1]^, without the requirement of any mechanically moving components. Over the years, various versions of this device have been developed; made of in-plane or out-of-plane magnetic strips^[@CR2],\ [@CR3]^, based on the spin transfer torque or on spin-orbit torque^[@CR4],\ [@CR5]^ and in single layers or in exchange coupled stacks^[@CR6]^. What is a common factor in all these racetrack versions is that an electrical current needs to run through the strip in order to move the domains, or equivalently the domain walls. A racetrack based on domain wall motion driven by magnetic fields is considered unfeasible, because these fields drive up-down and down-up domain walls in opposite direction, resulting in annihilation of the stored information. This is unfortunate, because field driven devices posses some beneficial properties: they are unhindered by Joule heating, which poses a major problem when driving large currents through small wires^[@CR7]^, electrical contacts are not required, when designed cleverly power consumption might be small^[@CR8]^, and their lifetime is not limited by electromigration^[@CR9]^.
Over the last decade, several creative approaches to circumvent this seemingly unsurmountable problem have been put forward. One of them is a domain wall ratchet created by a saw tooth shaped anisotropy profile or asymmetric notches^[@CR10],\ [@CR11]^. Drawbacks of such ratchet compared to the conventional racetrack are that the information can only be moved in one direction, and the complex structural modulation makes it unlikely to be implemented in industry. Another interesting idea is to make use of the precession torque that a magnetic field exerts on the magnetic moments inside the domain wall^[@CR12],\ [@CR13]^. However, this mechanism of domain wall motion has not yet been demonstrated in materials with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA).
Another approach is the so-called bubblecade memory^[@CR14]^. Recently it was observed that field-induced growth of reversed domains becomes asymmetrical in the presence of in-plane magnetic fields^[@CR15]--[@CR17]^. Based on these experiments it was shown that magnetic bubbles could be moved unidirectionally by expanding and shrinking them asymmetrically. The underlying physical phenomenon is the Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (DMI), which stabilizes chiral Néel walls, leading to a difference in DW energy (and hence a different DW velocity) when parallel or antiparallel in-plane magnetic fields are applied. This antisymmetric type of exchange interaction is intensively researched because of its importance for spin-orbit torque driven domain wall motion^[@CR5],\ [@CR18]^ and for the formation of magnetic skyrmions^[@CR19],\ [@CR20]^.
In this work, an alternative physical design is proposed for a purely magnetic-field-driven racetrack memory. We were inspired by the recent observation that a combination of an in-plane magnetic field and interfacial DMI causes a significant asymmetry in the domain-wall depinning field at an anisotropy barrier^[@CR21]^. Based on this particular phenomenon, we have designed magnetic tracks with an effective interfacial DMI, combined with a lateral modulation of the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy using local ion irradiation. It is demonstrated that unidirectional motion of multiple domains walls is achieved for alternating in-plane and out-of-plane field combinations, fully in line with the underlying physics of DMI-induced depinning asymmetry. In the following, experimental data proving the device concept will be gathered emphasizing the decisive role of the direction of the additional symmetry-breaking in-plane magnetic field. Moreover, several material combinations to explore different strengths of DMI will be explored, yielding significant, sometimes unexpected changes in effective domain-wall movement. Our data include a careful analysis of the success rate of the observed unidirectional motion. This is an important step towards a further understanding of the physics processes and, though many technical challenges remain regarding scaling down and the control of orthogonal magnetic fields, the potential implementation in future memory devices.
Results {#Sec2}
=======
Device concept {#Sec3}
--------------
In systems with PMA, a step in the magnetic anisotropy forms a pinning site for domain walls^[@CR22]^. The magnetic field directed perpendicular to the sample plane (z direction) necessary to overcome such energy barrier, *H* ~*depin*~, is determined by the difference in domain wall energy in the low and high anisotropy regions and by the width of the barrier. Recently it was demonstrated that an additional in-plane magnetic field, *H* ~*x*~, influences *H* ~*depin*~ in systems with DMI^[@CR21]^. Because of the chiral nature of DMI, the change in *H* ~*depin*~ is different for up-to-down (UD) and down-to-up (DU) domain walls. Figure [1(a)](#Fig1){ref-type="fig"} schematically shows this dependence for the two types of domain walls (although in actual experiments the behaviour will be more complex). It can be seen that for a certain value of *H* ~*x*~ there exist a range of *H* ~*z*~ (the blue region in Fig. [1(a)](#Fig1){ref-type="fig"}) resulting in depinning of UD walls but not of DU walls (or vice versa, depending on the sign of the DMI). Because of the symmetry of the situation, at −*H* ~*x*~ DU walls will now move while UD walls remain pinned for the same range of *H* ~*z*~. Domain wall motion driven by *H* ~*z*~ will always be such that either the up or the down domains grow, which implies that UD and DU walls are driven in opposite directions. Utilizing the influence of *H* ~*x*~, one can keep UD walls pinned when up domains are expanded, and keep DU walls pinned when down domains are expanded.Figure 1Device concept. (**a**) Schematic graph of the change in *H* ~*depin*~ (both for up-down and down-up domain walls) as a function of *H* ~*x*~. If *H* ~*z*~ is below *H* ~*depin*~ a DW stays pinned at an anisotropy barrier while above *H* ~*depin*~ it will move past it, as indicated by the black inset cartoons. (**b**) An initial magnetic configuration is shown in the top cartoon (red shading = down, blue shading = up) together with a schematic energy landscape for the domain walls, which are represented by circles. *H* ~*x*~ lowers the energy barriers for one type of DW, which is subsequently moved by an *H* ~*z*~ pulse, and the system ends up in the configuration shown in the middle cartoon. A following *H* ~*x*~ and *H* ~*z*~ with opposite sign move the other type of DWs in the same direction, ending up in the configuration shown in the bottom cartoon.
In Fig. [1(b)](#Fig1){ref-type="fig"} it is schematically shown how this can lead to directional motion of multiple domain walls in a strip with block-shaped anisotropy profile. In this device, every transition from low to high anisotropy, forms a pinning site. The first strip shows an initial magnetic configuration, which we want to shift coherently to the right through the strip. In the first step, a positive *H* ~*z*~ is applied, which expands the up domains, while +*H* ~*x*~ is applied such that DU walls are pinned and UD walls are free to move as long as the fields are applied. The configuration after this first step is shown in the second wire in Fig. [1(b)](#Fig1){ref-type="fig"}. The second step is the application of a negative *H* ~*z*~ field, which expands down domains while −*H* ~*x*~ changes the DW energy landscape such that only the UD walls are pinned. This results in the configuration which is shown in the last wire, in which both domain walls have shifted to the right with respect to their initial configuration.
Proof of principle {#Sec4}
------------------
To experimentally test this device concept, 70 *μ*m long, 1 *μ*m wide Ta(5 nm)/Pt(4 nm)/Co(0.6 nm)/Pt(4 nm) strips with multiple 2 *μ*m long regions of reduced anisotropy are produced. Reducing the anisotropy locally is achieved by irradiation by a focussed ion beam, and for this particular sample a dose of 0.5 *μ*C/cm^2^ was used. During the measurements, the strips are first saturated with a positive *H* ~*z*~ field, and by applying a short negative *H* ~*z*~ pulse, some randomly located inverted domains are created. Now the steps as described in the previous section are performed. Experimentally, we apply a 0.5 ms *H* ~*z*~ pulse together with a constant in-plane field. It was decided to always start with pulses in the −z direction, to carry out each step twice and to repeat the complete procedure five times. See Supporting information [1](#MOESM1){ref-type="media"} for details on how the magnetic configuration of a strip is extracted from the raw experimental data (e.g. it is discussed how up and down domains can be identified automatically and how a specific domain wall is traced through subsequent images). The magnetic state of a typical strip during each cycle is shown in Fig. [2(a)](#Fig2){ref-type="fig"}. The situation after the nucleation of random domains is shown in cycle 1, where the blue and red regions represent up and down domains, respectively. The vertical shaded stripes indicate the regions along the strip with lower magnetic anisotropy. The magnetic configuration after each field pulse (in this measurement −*H* ~*z*~ are combined with +*H* ~*x*~ fields) is shown. By reading the figure from bottom to top it can be seen how the magnetic domains move in time, and in general it can be seen that both UD and DU walls are successfully moved to the right. To complete the proof-of-principle, it is shown that coherent shift to the left is possible as well. Experimentally this is done by now combining positive *H* ~*x*~ fields with positive *H* ~*z*~ fields, and the results are shown in Fig. [2(b)](#Fig2){ref-type="fig"}.Figure 2Magnetic configuration (red = down, blue = up) of a strip for every cycle in the propagation sequence. (**a**) Domain walls successfully being moved to the right, fields strengths *H* ~*x*~ and *H* ~*z*~ are 140 mT and 10.4 mT respectively. (**b**) Domain walls successfully being moved to the right by changing the sign of combined fields, field strengths *H* ~*x*~ and *H* ~*z*~ are 140 mT and 9.2 mT respectively). (**c**) In-plane fields (120 mT) are applied transverse to instead of along the strips, *H* ~*z*~ = 10.8 mT. (**d**) Unirradiated strip, field strengths *H* ~*x*~ = 150 mT and *H* ~*z*~ = 5.0 mT are used. (**e**) Sample with top Pt layer grown under higher argon pressure, field strengths *H* ~*x*~ = 80 mT and *H* ~*z*~ = 22.8 mT are used. (**f**) Sample with top Pt layer replaced by Ir, field strengths *H* ~*x*~ = 160 mT and *H* ~*z*~ = 8.0 mT are used.
In order to verify our interpretation of the observation, two additional experiments were performed. Figure [2(c)](#Fig2){ref-type="fig"} shows the same experiment, but now using in-plane fields transverse to the strips instead of parallel to the strips. No unidirectional motion was observed, excluding unintentional asymmetry created during sample fabrication. Instead, it nicely corresponds to the interpretation based on DMI, where a transverse field is not expected to create a difference between UD and DU domain walls. A second control experiment was performed, in which an unirradiated sample is investigated. For typical *H* ~*z*~ fields that were used before (\~10 mT), the domain walls are now propagated over such a large distance that they reach the end of the strip within one field step. We repeated the experiment with a factor two smaller *H* ~*z*~ fields, of which the results are shown in Fig. [2(d)](#Fig2){ref-type="fig"}. Interestingly, we do not observe an asymmetric domain wall velocity, which is in agreement with earlier observations^[@CR17]^. This shows that unidirectional motion shown in (a) and (b) is created by asymmetric depinning and not by asymmetric domain wall velocity, as is the case in the bubblecade memory^[@CR14]^.
Device optimization {#Sec5}
-------------------
In Fig. [2](#Fig2){ref-type="fig"} it can be seen that sometimes a domain wall that is supposed to propagate remains pinned, and vice versa. It is of importance to optimize the *H* ~*x*~ and *H* ~*z*~ field strengths that are used during the procedure to achieve a minimal amount of errors. Figures [3(a--c)](#Fig3){ref-type="fig"} show the measured success rate for the device that was used for the proof-of-principle measurements. To obtain these percentages, measurements have been performed on five strips simultaneously. The center-to-center distance of these strips is 5 *μ*m, which we have calculated to be sufficient to make dipolar fields emanating from neighbouring strips negligibly small. For each combination of field strengths, the domain walls are propagated 20 times. Though is is not possible to give an exact number because for each measurement a different number of domain walls is randomly nucleated, each percentage shown here is based on approximately 200 events. Figure [3(a)](#Fig3){ref-type="fig"} shows the measured chance that a domain wall remains pinned when it is supposed to remain pinned, which is high for small fields. Figure [3(b)](#Fig3){ref-type="fig"} shows the measured chance that a domain wall moves when it is supposed to move, which is high when large fields are used. To shift the domains coherently, it is required that both the pinning and moving step are successful. This chance is computed by the multiplication of the pinning chance with the moving chance, and the result is shown in Fig. [3(c)](#Fig3){ref-type="fig"}. The plot shows two green regions with success rates of 60%. Note that the existence of these regions is not trivial; if the UD and DU depinning fields are not influenced differently, the pinning chance equals one minus the moving chance, and the product can never exceed 25%.Figure 3Success rate (indicated by colour scale) as a function of *H* ~*x*~ and *H* ~*z*~. (**a**) Chance on a successful pinning step. (**b**) Chance on a successful depinning step. (**c**) Chance that a complete procedure (both pinning and moving) is successful for the proof-of-principle sample. (**d**) Chance that a complete procedure is successful for a sample with the top Pt layer grown at a higher pressure. (**e**) Chance that a complete procedure is successful for an irradiated Pt/Co/Ir sample. (**f**) Chance that a complete procedure is successful for an unirradiated Pt/Co/Ir sample.
To ensure that the physics is ruled predominantly by DMI, it is investigated how the behaviour of the device changes when the DMI is increased. Because this increases the asymmetry between UD and DU walls, this is expected to improve the reliability of the proposed field-driven racetrack as the region of high total success rate should be expanded. We have investigated two alternative sample stacks: (i) a sample for which the top Pt layer is grown at a different pressure and (ii) a sample for which the top Pt layer is replaced by an Ir layer. These stacks are chosen because DMI is affected by both interface engineering by altering the growth kinetics^[@CR17]^ and variation of the used materials at the interfaces^[@CR23]^. Because these new stacks are structurally less symmetrical than the Pt/Co/Pt sample that was used up to now, the DMI (and therefore the success rate of the racetrack) is expected to be increased. The DMI was not measured independently for the samples used in this work, but studies of similar samples, grown in the same lab, can be found in literature^[@CR17],\ [@CR24]^.
A typical result for a sample with a Pt top layer grown at 1.12 Pa instead of 0.29 Pa is shown in Fig. [2(e)](#Fig2){ref-type="fig"}. Figure [3(d)](#Fig3){ref-type="fig"} shows the success rate at various field combinations. The maximum success rate is comparable to the one obtained for the standard Pt/Co/Pt sample, though is reached at significantly higher *H* ~*z*~ fields. The most striking difference can be seen when comparing Fig. [2(a)](#Fig2){ref-type="fig"} to Fig. [2(e)](#Fig2){ref-type="fig"}: while the same field polarities are used, the direction of the domain wall motion is surprisingly opposite! For Pt/Co/Pt samples both observations of a dominant DMI contribution from the bottom interface as from the top interface have been reported^[@CR16],\ [@CR23],\ [@CR25]^, suggesting a sensitive dependence on the interface quality. When the growth pressure is increased the growth kinetics, and therefore the interface quality, changes. It was observed that increasing the growth pressure for the top Pt layer drastically increases the magnetic surface anisotropy (which also explains why a larger difference in anisotropy could be created and higher *H* ~*z*~ fields were required), which suggest that the interface quality is improved. Therefore we speculate that the change in direction of domain-wall motion might be due to a sign change in effective DMI by a change in the dominant interface, which would be a surprisingly large effect of such a subtle modification of the material stack. Support for this theory is found in one of our ongoing projects in which the equilibrium DW configuration in magnetic strips under the influence of in-plane fields is investigated. Also in these experiments opposite results are found for the same material stacks, again explicable by a opposite sign of the DMI^[@CR26]^. However, because also the irradiated regions play a role in our racetracks, caution should be taken with this conclusion. It has been reported that ion irradiation affects the structural properties of the top and bottom interfaces in a Pt/Co/Pt sample differently^[@CR27]^, so it is not unlikely that the DMI is affected.
Large effective DMI strenghts have been observed for Pt/Co/Ir stacks^[@CR24],\ [@CR28]^. In contrast to symmetric stacks where the interfacial DMI of both interfaces (partially) cancel each other, this system could have an enhanced total DMI, because opposite signs of the DMI are expected for Pt/Co and Ir/Co interfaces^[@CR23],\ [@CR29],\ [@CR30]^ (though recently conflicting observations were reported^[@CR31]^). We conclude our study on the field-driven racestrack concept with measurements on a Ta(5 nm)/Pt(4 nm)/ Co(0.8 nm)/Ir(4 nm) sample. Figure [3(e)](#Fig3){ref-type="fig"} shows the success rate at various field combinations for strips irradiated with a dose of 0.2 *μ*C/cm^2^. Large regions with a success rate of 80--90 percent are observed, a clear and significant improvement with respect to the Pt/Co/Pt samples, underlining the importance of DMI for these devices. The choice for the low irradiation dose used on this sample is necessary because for the slightly higher dose of 0.4 *μ*C/cm^2^ the nucleation field in the irradiated regions drops below the depinning fields. This triggered us to repeat the test of a device without irradiation for this sample. Surprisingly, the results, shown in Fig. [3(f)](#Fig3){ref-type="fig"}, are completely different from the unirradiated Pt/Co/Pt sample. In Fig. [2(d)](#Fig2){ref-type="fig"}, though this shows a single measurement instead of a phase diagram, it can be seen that there is no unidirectional domain-wall motion for the Pt/Co/Pt sample. For the Pt/Co/Ir sample however, the success rate is considerable, and the maximum occurs at similar fields as for the irradiated Pt/Co/Ir sample. As no anisotropy profile is created in this sample, the unidirectional displacement must be due to an asymmetry in DW velocity, similar to the principle behind the bubblecade memory^[@CR14]^. This means that when analyzing the irradiated Pt/Co/Ir sample two DMI related phenomena have to be considered: both the asymmetry in DW velocity and in depinning field play a role, making this particular device very interesting.
In order to unravel the physical origin behind these contributions, we further investigate the difference between the irradiated and unirradiated Pt/Co/Ir sample. First it is verified that domain-wall motion follows the creep law in both irradiated and unirradiated samples, and that the domain-wall velocity is not significantly altered by irradiation, see Supporting information [2](#MOESM1){ref-type="media"}. Figure [4](#Fig4){ref-type="fig"} shows boundaries at which the chance of moving and staying pinned are 50 percent, both for domain walls that are supposed to move and supposed to pin. The curves for the irradiated sample are clearly shifted towards higher *H* ~*z*~ fields by an amount of 0.49 ± 0.06 mT. This makes sense; when barriers are introduced it will be less probable to propagate than when there are no barriers. Interestingly the slopes of the graphs are identical within the margin of error for the irradiated and unirradiated sample. This seems to indicate that apparently no additional asymmetry with in-plane field is created by the irradiation, in striking contrast to the Pt/Co/Pt case. An explanation could be that the effect is simply very small at this small irradiation dose. However, the irradiation seems to have a positive effect on the performance of the device, as the maximum success rate is clearly higher for the irradiated sample. In-depth analysis of the data, see Supporting Information [2](#MOESM1){ref-type="media"}, shows that the transition between the situation in which a domain wall moves or pins becomes more abrupt after irradiation. The reason for this is that without irradiation only the chance that a domain wall reaches the barrier position plays a role, but for the irradiated sample this chance has to be combined with the chance that the domain wall can depin from this barrier. When the field range for which only one type of wall can move past a barrier stays equally large, this more abrupt transition leads to a higher maximum success rate.Figure 4Boundaries for which a domain wall has 50 percent chance to depin, for both the irradiated and unirradiated Pt/Co/Ir sample and for both domain walls that are suppose to remain pinned and for domain walls that are supposed to move.
Discussion {#Sec6}
==========
The results of the device optimization lead to an unexpected conclusion: by varying the material stack, we have created two types of devices, both of them function, but have a different underlying principle. The Pt/Co/Pt devices are based on a difference in depinning field for UD and DU walls, as explained before. The Pt/Co/Ir samples, however, get their unidirectionality from a difference in velocity between UD and DU walls, similar to the principle behind the bubblecade memory, but now using domain-walls instead of magnetic bubbles. The Pt/Co/Ir sample has the highest success rate of the devices investigated so far. This does not automatically mean that the difference in velocity is the best basis for a field-driven racetrack. When material stacks with larger differences in depinning field for UD and DU walls are designed, also a larger success rates are expected. Therefore both types of devices are interesting candidates for future memory applications.
The size of the regions with reduced anisotropy in the investigated samples was 2 *μ*m. This choice was made to enable the Kerr microscope imaging, but does not reflect the fundamental limits of the device. One may wonder whether the use of a focussed ion beam does not significantly increase the minimal bit size, which is, however, not the case. First, the width of the created anisotropy boundary is 22 nm, but could be further reduced by switching from Ga ions to, for instance, He ions^[@CR32]^. Secondly, the actual limiting factor is the minimal distance between two domain walls at which they do not interact with each other by dipolar fringe fields, which is considerably more than 22 nm^[@CR33],\ [@CR34]^, just as in a traditional racetrack device. Finally, we note that for the simple anisotropy profile we need to create, a *focussed* ion beam is not essentially required. The ion irradiation could be done through a mask^[@CR35]^, greatly reducing the sample fabrication time.
Another concern could be the domain wall velocity that poses a fundamental limit to the operation speed of the device. This velocity is related to *H* ~*z*~ which unfortunately cannot be increased arbitrarily, because it is required to be in a specific range in order to make the device function, see Fig. [1(a)](#Fig1){ref-type="fig"}. For the samples investigated, this is in the creep regime and the velocities are in the order of 10^−3^ m/s. To improve the speed, a different material stack and irradiation dose, resulting in a higher depinning field, could be used. Moreover, the theoretically possibility to have this type of racetrack operating with higher domain wall velocities (and smaller sample dimensions) is demonstrated by micromagnetic simulations, see Supporting Information [3](#MOESM1){ref-type="media"}.
An advantage of the proposed device over conventional current driven racetracks is the creation of discrete positions at which the domain wall can be located (how it can be achieved that the domain walls certainly end up at these anisotropy barriers is discussed in Supporting Information [3](#MOESM1){ref-type="media"}). In studies on current induced domain wall motion, asymmetric domain wall depinning in the presence of in-plane fields was also observed^[@CR36],\ [@CR37]^. This implies that the advantageous pinning sites tunable by in-plane fields that were investigated in this work, could be extended to current-driven devices.
Though the development towards devices that are of interest for industry should be possible in theory, as discussed above, this will certainly not be trivial. An example of a technical issue is the quality of the strip edges. These will have to be very smooth for nanoscale devices to prevent them from forming pinning sites that dominate over the pinning by barriers induced by irradiation, which makes the lithography challenging. Another example is making a sample design in which magnetic fields can be applied locally, which is necessary in applications where it is desirable to control the domain walls of only one strip situated within a large array of strips. However, these issues are beyond the scope of this work.
Finally, the rather elementary devices shown in this manuscript are purely meant to demonstrate the proof-of-principle of this DMI-based racetrack memory, and therefore have the geometry of simple strips. However, extension to a second dimension can open up new possibilities: domain walls could be selectively moved through a grid by using magnetic fields in the *y* direction as well, or operators for domain wall logic could be designed using this concept of domain wall motion.
In summary, we have presented a technique to achieve unidirectional domain wall motion based on the chiral dependence of the depinning field on in-plane fields. Proof-of-principle measurements were shown and a number of material stacks were investigated to explore the possibilities and requirements of this novel device.
Methods {#Sec7}
=======
Both Ta(5.0 nm)/Pt(4.0 nm)/Co(0.6 nm)/Pt(4.0 nm) and Ta(4.0 nm)/Pt(4.0 nm)/Co(0.8 nm)/Ir(4.0 nm) were deposited on a Si O~2~ (100 nm) substrate in a UHV magnetron sputtering facility. The 1 *μ*m × 70 *μ*m strips were created by standard electron-beam lithography and lift-off techniques. The 2 *μ*m long regions of lower magnetic anisotropy were created by focussed- ion-beam irradiation using a FEI Nova Nanolab 600 dualbeam system. All measurements are performed using an Evico Kerr microscope and home-built electro magnets.
Electronic supplementary material
=================================
{#Sec8}
Supplementary information racetrack memory based on in-plane-field controlled domain-wall pinning
**Electronic supplementary material**
**Supplementary information** accompanies this paper at doi:10.1038/s41598-017-00837-x
**Publisher\'s note:** Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.
This work is part of the research programme of the Foundation for Fundamental Research on Matter (FOM), which is part of the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO). We would like to thank Mark Lalieu for verifying the size of the dipolar field emanating from neighbouring magnetic strips using micromagnetic simulations.
F.U. conceived the experiment, conducted the experiment and analysed the results. H.S. and B.K. supervised the study. All authors reviewed the manuscript.
Competing Interests {#FPar1}
===================
The authors declare that they have no competing interests.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Central"
}
|
Łukasz Kozub
Łukasz Kozub (born 3 November 1997) is a Polish volleyball player, a member of Polish club Trefl Gdańsk, U19 European Champion 2015, U19 World Champion 2015, U20 European Champion 2016, U21 World Champion 2017.
Career
National team
On April 12, 2015 Poland men's national under-19 volleyball team, including Kozub, won title of U19 European Champion 2015. They beat Italy U19 in the final (3–1). He took part in European Youth Olympic Festival with Polish national U19 team. On August 1, 2015 he achieved gold medal (final match with Bulgaria 3–0). On August 23, 2015 Poland achieved first title of U19 World Champion. In the final his team beat hosts - Argentina (3–2). On September 10, 2016 he achieved title of the 2016 CEV U20 European Champion after winning 7 of 7 matches in tournament and beating Ukraine U21 in the final (3–1). On July 2, 2017 Poland U21, including Kozub, achieved title of U21 World Champion 2017 after beating Cuba U21 in the final (3–0). Kozub was awarded an individual award for the Best Setter of the whole tournament. His national team won 47 matches in the row and never lost. The U21 World Champion title ended up his time in youth national teams.
Sporting achievements
National team
2015 CEV European U19 Championship
2015 European Youth Olympic Festival
2015 FIVB U19 World Championship
2016 CEV U20 European Championship
2017 FIVB U21 World Championship
2019 Summer Universiade
Individually
2017: FIVB U21 World Championship – The Best Setter
References
External links
PlusLiga player profile
Category:1997 births
Category:Living people
Category:Polish men's volleyball players
Category:People from Rzeszów
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Wikipedia (en)"
}
|
It's the week before Christmas, which means it's time for a hallowed holiday tradition here at Shorpy: The Office Xmas Party! Which has been going on for close to 90 years now. Will Clarence in Sales ever get up the nerve to ask out Hermione from Accounting?
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
956 F.2d 271
NOTICE: Sixth Circuit Rule 24(c) states that citation of unpublished dispositions is disfavored except for establishing res judicata, estoppel, or the law of the case and requires service of copies of cited unpublished dispositions of the Sixth Circuit.UNITED STATES of America, Plaintiff/Appellee,v.Lawrence Winford PRICE, Defendant/Appellant.
No. 91-3286.
United States Court of Appeals, Sixth Circuit.
Feb. 27, 1992.
Before RYAN and BOGGS, Circuit Judges, and HOOD, District Judge.*
PER CURIAM.
1
This is an appeal from the conviction and sentence of defendant-appellant, Lawrence Winford Price (Price), for conspiracy to maintain a place for unlawfully distributing cocaine base (crack), 21 U.S.C. §§ 846 and 856(a), and for possession with intent to distribute over five (5) grams of crack, 21 U.S.C. § 841 and 18 U.S.C. § 2. Arguing, among other things, insufficiency of evidence for conviction, Price contends that he was entitled to a judgment of acquittal on both counts of conviction. For the reasons set out below, we agree as to the conduct charged in the conspiracy charge of the indictment and set aside his conviction and sentence on that charge. We further find the defendant's other arguments to be without merit and affirm the conviction and sentence for possession with intent to distribute.
2
The government produced evidence showing that on November 25 and 28, 1988, a confidential informant made controlled purchases in an apartment located at 789 Greenfield Drive, Columbus, Ohio. Subsequent to the second controlled purchase, the SWAT team of the Columbus Police Department raided the apartment pursuant to a search warrant. As they entered, they encountered nine persons. One of those was Price who was overheard yelling for another person to let him into the bathroom. After taking control of Price, two officers observed him to be in possession of a baggie which appeared to contain crack. Breaking down the bathroom door, one officer found Price's co-defendant Keith Martin (Martin) lying on the floor. Beneath him, the officer found another baggie which appeared to contain crack. Another piece of crack was found in the hallway. A trace of cocaine was found on a mirror.
3
Price and the others were searched. Money totalling $256 was found in the left front and right rear pockets of Price's pants. Significantly, none of the other persons in the apartment were found to be in possession of any money, and none of the buy money was found.
4
A firearm was recovered from a couch in the living room. The revolver, which had three rounds in the chamber, was not directly connected to Price.
5
Analysis of the material in the baggie taken from Price revealed that it was crack weighing 5.47 grams. The baggie found beneath Martin contained 16.46 grams of crack.
6
The apartment raided was leased by John Brian Clifford (Clifford) who was present at the time of the raid. Although Clifford subsequently entered a plea of guilty to Count 4 of the indictment which charged him with making his apartment available as a crack house in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 856(a), this fact was not made known to the jury during Price's trial.
7
In determining the sufficiency of the evidence to support a guilty verdict, "the relevant question is whether, after viewing the evidence in the light most favorable to the prosecution, any rational trier of fact could have found the essential elements of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt." Jackson v. Virginia, 443 U.S. 307, 319 (1979) (emphasis in original).
8
Price claims the evidence is insufficient to sustain his conviction for conspiracy to maintain a place to distribute crack under 21 U.S.C. § 846. Section 846 provides that "[a]ny person who ... conspires to commit any offense defined in this subchapter shall be subject to the same penalties as those prescribed for the offense, the commission of which was the object of the ... conspiracy." 21 U.S.C. § 846.
9
The essential element of conspiracy is that "the members of the conspiracy in some way or manner, or through some contrivance, came to a mutual understanding to try to accomplish a common and unlawful plan." United States v. Pearce, 912 F.2d 159, 161 (6th Cir.1990), cert. denied, Thorpe v. United States, 111 S.Ct. 978 (1991). Proof of a formal agreement is unnecessary--a tacit or material understanding among the parties will suffice. Id. at 161. "With respect to the proof of conspiracies involving drugs, 'to obtain a conviction under section 846, the government must prove the existence of an agreement to violate the drug laws and that each conspirator knew of, intended to join, and participated in the conspiracy.' " Id. at 161 (quoting United States v. Stanley, 765 F.2d 1224, 1237 (5th Cir.1985)).
10
A jury may convict solely on circumstantial evidence. See, e.g., United States v. Frost, 914 F.2d 756, 762 (6th Cir.1990). However, we find on this record that the government, utilizing circumstantial evidence, failed to meet its burden of proof on the charge that Price was a member of a conspiracy to maintain a place to distribute crack.
11
The confidential informant who participated in the controlled buys in this case did not testify at trial. Hence, there was no admissible evidence before the jury that any crack sales occurred in the apartment rented by Clifford. Indeed, Officer Michael Malloy (Malloy)--one of the police officers who supervised the confidential informant during the two controlled purchases of crack--testified that he never even saw the confidential informant enter the apartment rented by Clifford [J.A. pp. 61 and 65].
12
Moreover, there was no evidence whatsoever linking Price (or Martin for that matter) to either of the two prior controlled buys of crack. The crack supposedly purchased at Clifford's apartment by the confidential informant was not shown by analysis to contain the same characteristics as that recovered from Martin or Price during the raid. The money found on Price was not that used by the confidential informant when he made the controlled purchases.
13
Finally, there was not the slightest evidence of any agreement between Price, Martin and Clifford to maintain the apartment leased by Clifford as a crack house. The inferences which the government contends support a finding that such an agreement existed are tenuous at best and are too strained to support Price's conviction on the conspiracy count. Pearce, 912 F.2d at 162.
14
As to Count 2, possession of with intent to distribute crack, Price claims that evidence of his guilt is similarly lacking. We disagree. Price was found in possession of 5.49 grams of crack and $256. Price attempted to hide in the bathroom when the raid occurred. The crack Price alone possessed weighed ten times more than what a normal unit sold on the street, a fact which would permit an inference that the crack could have been cut into smaller units. In addition, the loaded revolver found in the couch in the living room where Price was first seen by the police, although not directly connected to Price, is evidence of an intent to distribute. See, e.g., United States v. Dunn, 846 F.2d 761, 764 (D.C.Cir.1988) (loaded gun found on couch near defendant was, as a tool of the trade, evidence of an intent to distribute). Thus we find the evidence sufficient to support the jury's verdict finding Price guilty on the crack possession charge. United States v. Garrett, 903 F.2d 1105, 1113 (7th Cir.) cert. denied, 111 S.Ct. 272 (1990); United States v. Ramirez, 608 F.2d 1261, 1264 (9th Cir.1979).
15
We have considered Price's other assertions of error and find them to be without merit. Price's counsel did not object to either the challenged portion of the prosecutor's closing argument or to the section of the court's instructions which he now claims improperly shifted the burden of proof. Assuming for the sake of argument that his objections to these alleged errors would have been sustained if timely raised, we do not believe that plain error occurred.
*
The Honorable Joseph M. Hood, United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Kentucky, sitting by designation
|
{
"pile_set_name": "FreeLaw"
}
|
---
title: Firebase setup
description: Add Firebase to Flutter
weight: 4
lastmod: 2020-04-12T10:11:30-02:00
draft: false
emoji: 👶
vimeo: 336023357
video_length: 3:15
---
## Tasks
1. Create a Firebase Project
1. Add an iOS app to your project
1. Add an Android app to your project
1. Use the keytool to generate an SHA Certificate. See my [Flutter Firebase SHA guide](https://fireship.io/snippets/install-flutterfire/#project-id-and-sha1-certificate) if you get stuck at this part.
Also reference the latest [Official FlutterFire Setup Docs](https://firebase.google.com/docs/flutter/setup)
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Github"
}
|
Stella McCartney speaks on stage during #BoFVOICES
OXFORDSHIRE, United Kingdom — A lifelong vegetarian who founded her cruelty-free namesake brand in 2001, Stella McCartney has been in the game of ethical fashion long before it was trending.
Now, she is using her platform as a designer and businesswoman to implore others to follow in her footsteps. At VOICES 2018 she revealed the launch of a UN charter for climate action within the fashion industry, which delineates 16 commitments for lessening fashion’s impact on the environment.
McCartney also revealed her latest charitable initiative “Stella McCartney Cares Green,” which aims to empower students, professionals and businesses to embrace sustainable and ethical practices. It will work towards influencing change among policymakers too.
This call to action was underscored by an appeal to the collective responsibility of those in fashion. “It’s really about bringing everyone together as an industry,” she said. “Actually taking responsibility, putting our money where our mouth is and making an amazing change together.”
To subscribe to the BoF Podcast please follow this link.
Subscribe to BoF Professional for unlimited access to BoF articles, plus exclusive benefits for members.
To contact The Business of Fashion with comments, questions, or speaker ideas please e-mail [email protected].
|
{
"pile_set_name": "OpenWebText2"
}
|
Blocks That Matter
Information
Blocks That Matter is a puzzle platformer game made by the independent studio Swing Swing Submarine.
The game is a mash-up between puzzle game and platformer. The Player takes control of Tetrobot, a little robot who can collect blocks to use them to create plateformes. Blocks That Matter has been released on Xbox Live indie game, PC, Mac and Linux through several selling plateforms like Steam, Desura or Indievania.
I volunteered as an Additional Level Designer. My task was to create and implement new levels and level mechanics using the in-game map editor.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
Comparative gene expression of steroidogenic factor 1 in Chrysemys picta and Apalone mutica turtles with temperature-dependent and genotypic sex determination.
Characterizing the molecular network underlying temperature-dependent (TSD) and genotypic (GSD) sex determination, including patterns across closely related taxa, is crucial to elucidate the still enigmatic evolution of sex determining mechanisms in vertebrates. Here we examined the expression of an important gene for sexual differentiation common to both systems, Sf1, at male- and female-producing temperatures, in TSD (Chrysemys picta) and GSD turtles (Apalone mutica). We tested the hypotheses that Sf1 expression responds to temperature consistently across TSD turtles but is unaffected in GSD turtles, and that this differential expression starts no earlier than the onset of the thermosensitive period (TSP). As expected, Sf1 expression was thermally insensitive in A. mutica (GSD). Although Sf1 exhibited a differential expression by temperature in C. picta, the expression pattern differed from other TSD turtles (Trachemys scripta), perhaps reflecting divergence of the gene regulatory networks underlying sex determination over evolutionary time. Most notably, Sf1 was differentially expressed in C. picta (significantly higher at the male-producing temperature) before the onset of the TSP, implying that in TSD taxa significant thermal effects may occur early in development. This result may reconcile field observations where temperatures experienced prior to the TSP have an effect on sex ratios, thus challenging traditional TSP models. Importantly, the molecular factors that render TSD mechanisms thermosensitive remain unknown, and potential candidates are genes that express differentially before the onset of the TSP (genes shaping or opening the TSP-window rather those acting once the TSP window has opened). Therefore, our findings make Sf1 one such potential candidate.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
#cython: language_level=3
# distutils: language = c++
# This file is part of QuTiP: Quantum Toolbox in Python.
#
# Copyright (c) 2011 and later, Paul D. Nation and Robert J. Johansson.
# All rights reserved.
#
# Redistribution and use in source and binary forms, with or without
# modification, are permitted provided that the following conditions are
# met:
#
# 1. Redistributions of source code must retain the above copyright notice,
# this list of conditions and the following disclaimer.
#
# 2. Redistributions in binary form must reproduce the above copyright
# notice, this list of conditions and the following disclaimer in the
# documentation and/or other materials provided with the distribution.
#
# 3. Neither the name of the QuTiP: Quantum Toolbox in Python nor the names
# of its contributors may be used to endorse or promote products derived
# from this software without specific prior written permission.
#
# THIS SOFTWARE IS PROVIDED BY THE COPYRIGHT HOLDERS AND CONTRIBUTORS
# "AS IS" AND ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING, BUT NOT
# LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A
# PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE DISCLAIMED. IN NO EVENT SHALL THE COPYRIGHT
# HOLDER OR CONTRIBUTORS BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL,
# SPECIAL, EXEMPLARY, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING, BUT NOT
# LIMITED TO, PROCUREMENT OF SUBSTITUTE GOODS OR SERVICES; LOSS OF USE,
# DATA, OR PROFITS; OR BUSINESS INTERRUPTION) HOWEVER CAUSED AND ON ANY
# THEORY OF LIABILITY, WHETHER IN CONTRACT, STRICT LIABILITY, OR TORT
# (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE OR OTHERWISE) ARISING IN ANY WAY OUT OF THE USE
# OF THIS SOFTWARE, EVEN IF ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGE.
###############################################################################
"""
Contain the cython interface of QobjEvo.
The parent class "CQobjEvo" set the interface.
CQobjCte:
QobjEvo that does not depend on times.
sparse matrix
CQobjCteDense:
QobjEvo that does not depend on times.
dense matrix
- Hidden feature in the sense that it's not really documented and need to be
explicitly used. Does not seems to results in significant speedup.
CQobjEvoTd:
QobjEvo that does depend on times.
sparse matrix
CQobjEvoTdDense:
QobjEvo that does depend on times.
dense matrix
- Hidden feature in the sense that it's not really documented and need to be
explicitly used. Does not seems to results in significant speedup.
CQobjEvoTdMatched:
QobjEvo that does depend on times.
sparse matrix with 0s
- Use sparce matrices that all have the same "filling". Therefore addition of
such matrices become a vector addition.
- Hidden feature/ experimental.
It reasult in a speedup in some rare cases.
In omp/cqobjevo_omp:
Variantes which use parallel mat*vec and mat*mat product
- CQobjCteOmp
- CQobjEvoTdOmp
- CQobjEvoTdMatchedOmp
"""
import numpy as np
import scipy.sparse as sp
cimport numpy as np
import cython
cimport cython
from qutip.qobj import Qobj
from cpython.exc cimport PyErr_CheckSignals
from qutip.cy.spmath cimport _zcsr_add_core
from qutip.cy.spmatfuncs cimport spmvpy, _spmm_c_py, _spmm_f_py
from qutip.cy.spmath import zcsr_add
from qutip.cy.cqobjevo_factor cimport CoeffFunc, zptr2array1d
cimport libc.math
include "complex_math.pxi"
include "sparse_routines.pxi"
cdef extern from "Python.h":
object PyLong_FromVoidPtr(void *)
void* PyLong_AsVoidPtr(object)
cdef extern from "numpy/arrayobject.h" nogil:
void PyArray_ENABLEFLAGS(np.ndarray arr, int flags)
void PyDataMem_FREE(void * ptr)
void PyDataMem_RENEW(void * ptr, size_t size)
void PyDataMem_NEW_ZEROED(size_t size, size_t elsize)
void PyDataMem_NEW(size_t size)
def _zcsr_match(sparses_list):
"""
For a list of csr sparse matrice A,
set them so the their indptr and indices be all equal.
Require keeping 0s in the data, but summation can be done in vector form.
"""
full_shape = sparses_list[0].copy()
for sparse_elem in sparses_list[1:]:
full_shape.data *= 0.
full_shape.data += 1.
if sparse_elem.indptr[-1] != 0:
full_shape = zcsr_add(
full_shape.data, full_shape.indices, full_shape.indptr,
sparse_elem.data, sparse_elem.indices, sparse_elem.indptr,
full_shape.shape[0], full_shape.shape[1],
full_shape.indptr[-1], sparse_elem.indptr[-1], 0.)
out = []
for sparse_elem in sparses_list[:]:
full_shape.data *= 0.
if sparse_elem.indptr[-1] != 0:
out.append(zcsr_add(
full_shape.data, full_shape.indices, full_shape.indptr,
sparse_elem.data, sparse_elem.indices, sparse_elem.indptr,
full_shape.shape[0], full_shape.shape[1],
full_shape.indptr[-1], sparse_elem.indptr[-1], 1.))
else:
out.append(full_shape.copy())
return out
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
cdef _shallow_get_state(CSR_Matrix* mat):
"""
Converts a CSR sparse matrix to a tuples for pickling.
No deep copy of the data, pointer are passed.
"""
long_data = PyLong_FromVoidPtr(<void *>&mat.data[0])
long_indices = PyLong_FromVoidPtr(<void *>&mat.indices[0])
long_indptr = PyLong_FromVoidPtr(<void *>&mat.indptr[0])
return (long_data, long_indices, long_indptr,
mat.nrows, mat.ncols, mat.nnz, mat.max_length,
mat.is_set, mat.numpy_lock)
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
cdef _shallow_set_state(CSR_Matrix* mat, state):
"""
Converts a CSR sparse matrix to a tuples for pickling.
No deep copy of the data, pointer are passed.
"""
mat.data = <complex*>PyLong_AsVoidPtr(state[0])
mat.indices = <int*>PyLong_AsVoidPtr(state[1])
mat.indptr = <int*>PyLong_AsVoidPtr(state[2])
mat.nrows = state[3]
mat.ncols = state[4]
mat.nnz = state[5]
mat.max_length = state[6]
mat.is_set = state[7]
mat.numpy_lock = state[8]
cdef class CQobjEvo:
"""
Interface for the CQobjEvo's variantes
Python Methods
--------------
mul_vec(double t, complex[::1] vec)
return self @ vec
mul_mat(double t, np.ndarray[complex, ndim=2] mat)
return self @ mat
mat can be both "C" or "F" continuous.
expect(double t, complex[::1] vec)
return expectation value, knows to use the super version or not.
ode_mul_mat_f_vec(double t, complex[::1] mat)
return self @ mat
mat is in a 1d, F ordered form.
Used with scipy solver which only accept vector.
call(double t, int data=0)
return this at time t
call_with_coeff(complex[::1] coeff, int data=0)
return this with the given coefficients
set_data(cte, [ops])
build the object from data from QobjEvo
set_factor(self, func=None, ptr=False, obj=None)
get the coefficient function from QobjEvo
Cython Methods
--------------
_mul_vec(double t, complex* vec, complex* out):
out += self * vec
_mul_matf(double t, complex* mat, complex* out, int nrow, int ncols):
out += self * dense mat fortran ordered
_mul_matc(double t, complex* mat, complex* out, int nrow, int ncols):
out += self * dense mat c ordered
_expect(double t, complex* vec):
return <vec| self |vec>
_expect_super(double t, complex* rho):
return tr( self * rho )
"""
cdef int _mul_vec(self, double t, complex* vec, complex* out) except -1:
"""self * vec"""
return 0
cdef int _mul_matf(self, double t, complex* mat, complex* out,
int nrow, int ncols) except -1:
"""self * dense mat fortran ordered """
return 0
cdef int _mul_matc(self, double t, complex* mat, complex* out,
int nrow, int ncols) except -1:
"""self * dense mat c ordered"""
return 0
cdef complex _expect(self, double t, complex* vec) except *:
"""<vec| self |vec>"""
return 0.
cdef complex _expect_super(self, double t, complex* rho) except *:
"""tr( self_L * rho * self_R )"""
return 0.
cdef complex _overlapse(self, double t, complex* oper) except *:
"""tr( self * oper )"""
return 0.
def mul_vec(self, double t, complex[::1] vec):
cdef np.ndarray[complex, ndim=1] out = np.zeros(self.shape0,
dtype=complex)
self._mul_vec(t, &vec[0], &out[0])
return out
def mul_mat(self, double t, np.ndarray[complex, ndim=2] mat):
cdef np.ndarray[complex, ndim=2] out
cdef unsigned int sp_rows = self.shape0
cdef unsigned int nrows = mat.shape[0]
cdef unsigned int ncols = mat.shape[1]
if mat.flags["F_CONTIGUOUS"]:
out = np.zeros((sp_rows,ncols), dtype=complex, order="F")
self._mul_matf(t, &mat[0,0], &out[0,0], nrows, ncols)
else:
out = np.zeros((sp_rows,ncols), dtype=complex)
self._mul_matc(t, &mat[0,0], &out[0,0], nrows, ncols)
return out
cpdef complex expect(self, double t, complex[::1] vec):
if self.super:
return self._expect_super(t, &vec[0])
else:
return self._expect(t, &vec[0])
def overlapse(self, double t, complex[::1] oper):
"""
Compute the overlapse of operator as tr(this @ oper)
"""
cdef complex* vec = &oper[0]
return self._overlapse(t, vec)
def ode_mul_mat_f_vec(self, double t, complex[::1] mat):
cdef np.ndarray[complex, ndim=1] out = np.zeros(self.shape1*self.shape1,
dtype=complex)
self._mul_matf(t, &mat[0], &out[0], self.shape1, self.shape1)
return out
def call(self, double t, int data=0):
return None
def call_with_coeff(self, complex[::1] coeff, int data=0):
return None
def has_dyn_args(self, int dyn_args):
self.dyn_args = dyn_args
cdef int _factor(self, double t) except -1:
cdef int i
if self.factor_use_cobj:
self.factor_cobj._call_core(t, self.coeff_ptr)
else:
coeff = self.factor_func(t)
PyErr_CheckSignals()
for i in range(self.num_ops):
self.coeff_ptr[i] = coeff[i]
return 0
cdef int _factor_dyn(self, double t, complex* state, int[::1] shape) except -1:
cdef int len_
if self.dyn_args:
if self.factor_use_cobj:
self.factor_cobj._dyn_args(t, state, shape)
else:
len_ = shape[0] * shape[1]
self.factor_func.dyn_args(t, np.array(<complex[:len_]> state),
np.array(shape))
return self._factor(t)
def set_data(self, cte):
pass
def __getstate__(self):
return None
def __setstate__(self, state):
pass
cdef class CQobjCte(CQobjEvo):
def set_data(self, cte):
self.shape0 = cte.shape[0]
self.shape1 = cte.shape[1]
self.dims = cte.dims
self.cte = CSR_from_scipy(cte.data)
self.total_elem = cte.data.data.shape[0]
self.super = cte.issuper
def __getstate__(self):
CSR_info = _shallow_get_state(&self.cte)
return (self.shape0, self.shape1, self.dims,
self.total_elem, self.super, CSR_info)
def __setstate__(self, state):
self.shape0 = state[0]
self.shape1 = state[1]
self.dims = state[2]
self.total_elem = state[3]
self.super = state[4]
_shallow_set_state(&self.cte, state[5])
def call(self, double t, int data=0):
cdef CSR_Matrix out
out.is_set = 0
copy_CSR(&out, &self.cte)
scipy_obj = CSR_to_scipy(&out)
# free_CSR(&out)? data is own by the scipy_obj?
if data:
return scipy_obj
else:
return Qobj(scipy_obj, dims=self.dims)
def call_with_coeff(self, complex[::1] coeff, int data=0):
cdef CSR_Matrix out
out.is_set = 0
copy_CSR(&out, &self.cte)
scipy_obj = CSR_to_scipy(&out)
# free_CSR(&out)? data is own by the scipy_obj?
if data:
return scipy_obj
else:
return Qobj(scipy_obj)
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef int _mul_vec(self, double t, complex* vec, complex* out) except -1:
spmvpy(self.cte.data, self.cte.indices, self.cte.indptr, vec, 1.,
out, self.shape0)
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef int _mul_matf(self, double t, complex* mat, complex* out,
int nrow, int ncol) except -1:
_spmm_f_py(self.cte.data, self.cte.indices, self.cte.indptr, mat, 1.,
out, self.shape0, nrow, ncol)
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef int _mul_matc(self, double t, complex* mat, complex* out,
int nrow, int ncol) except -1:
_spmm_c_py(self.cte.data, self.cte.indices, self.cte.indptr, mat, 1.,
out, self.shape0, nrow, ncol)
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef complex _expect(self, double t, complex* vec) except *:
cdef complex[::1] y = np.zeros(self.shape0, dtype=complex)
spmvpy(self.cte.data, self.cte.indices, self.cte.indptr, vec, 1.,
&y[0], self.shape0)
cdef int row
cdef complex dot = 0
for row from 0 <= row < self.shape0:
dot += conj(vec[row])*y[row]
return dot
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef complex _expect_super(self, double t, complex* vec) except *:
cdef int row
cdef int jj, row_start, row_end
cdef int num_rows = self.shape0
cdef int n = <int>libc.math.sqrt(num_rows)
cdef complex dot = 0.0
for row from 0 <= row < num_rows by n+1:
row_start = self.cte.indptr[row]
row_end = self.cte.indptr[row+1]
for jj from row_start <= jj < row_end:
dot += self.cte.data[jj]*vec[self.cte.indices[jj]]
return dot
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef complex _overlapse(self, double t, complex* oper) except *:
"""tr( self * oper )"""
cdef int row
cdef int jj, row_start, row_end
cdef int num_rows = self.shape0
cdef complex tr = 0.0
for row in range(num_rows):
row_start = self.cte.indptr[row]
row_end = self.cte.indptr[row+1]
for jj from row_start <= jj < row_end:
tr += self.cte.data[jj] * \
oper[num_rows * row + self.cte.indices[jj]]
return tr
cdef class CQobjCteDense(CQobjEvo):
def set_data(self, cte):
self.shape0 = cte.shape[0]
self.shape1 = cte.shape[1]
self.dims = cte.dims
self.cte = cte.data.toarray()
self.super = cte.issuper
def __getstate__(self):
return (self.shape0, self.shape1, self.dims,
self.super, np.array(self.cte))
def __setstate__(self, state):
self.shape0 = state[0]
self.shape1 = state[1]
self.dims = state[2]
self.super = state[3]
self.cte = state[4]
def call(self, double t, int data=0):
if data:
return sp.csr_matrix(self.cte, dtype=complex, copy=True)
else:
return Qobj(self.cte, dims = self.dims)
def call_with_coeff(self, complex[::1] coeff, int data=0):
if data:
return sp.csr_matrix(self.cte, dtype=complex, copy=True)
else:
return Qobj(self.cte, dims = self.dims)
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef int _mul_vec(self, double t, complex* vec, complex* out) except -1:
cdef int i, j
cdef complex* ptr
for i in range(self.shape0):
ptr = &self.cte[i,0]
for j in range(self.shape1):
out[i] += ptr[j]*vec[j]
return 0
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef int _mul_matf(self, double t, complex* mat, complex* out,
int nrow, int ncol) except -1:
cdef int i, j, k
cdef complex* ptr = &self.cte[0,0]
for i in range(self.shape0):
for j in range(ncol):
for k in range(nrow):
out[i + j*self.shape0] += ptr[i*nrow + k]*mat[k + j*nrow]
return 0
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef int _mul_matc(self, double t, complex* mat, complex* out,
int nrow, int ncol) except -1:
cdef int i, j, k
cdef complex* ptr = &self.cte[0,0]
for i in range(self.shape0):
for j in range(ncol):
for k in range(nrow):
out[i*ncol + j] += ptr[i*nrow + k]*mat[k*ncol + j]
return 0
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef complex _expect(self, double t, complex* vec) except *:
cdef int i, j
cdef complex dot = 0
for i in range(self.shape0):
for j in range(self.shape1):
dot += conj(vec[i])*self.cte[i,j]*vec[j]
return dot
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef complex _expect_super(self, double t, complex* vec) except *:
cdef int row, i
cdef int num_rows = self.shape0
cdef int n = <int>libc.math.sqrt(num_rows)
cdef complex dot = 0.0
for row from 0 <= row < num_rows by n+1:
for i in range(self.shape1):
dot += self.cte[row,i]*vec[i]
return dot
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef complex _overlapse(self, double t, complex* oper) except *:
"""tr( self * oper )"""
cdef int i, j
cdef complex tr = 0.0
for i in range(self.shape0):
for j in range(self.shape0):
tr += self.cte[i,j] * oper[j + i*self.shape0]
return tr
cdef class CQobjEvoTd(CQobjEvo):
def __init__(self):
self.num_ops = 0
self.ops = <CSR_Matrix**> PyDataMem_NEW(0 * sizeof(CSR_Matrix*))
def __del__(self):
for i in range(self.num_ops):
PyDataMem_FREE(self.ops[i])
PyDataMem_FREE(self.ops)
def set_data(self, cte, ops):
cdef int i
self.shape0 = cte.shape[0]
self.shape1 = cte.shape[1]
self.dims = cte.dims
self.cte = CSR_from_scipy(cte.data)
cummulative_op = cte.data
self.super = cte.issuper
self.num_ops = len(ops)
self.coeff = np.empty((self.num_ops,), dtype=complex)
self.coeff_ptr = &self.coeff[0]
PyDataMem_FREE(self.ops)
self.ops = <CSR_Matrix**> PyDataMem_NEW(self.num_ops * sizeof(CSR_Matrix*))
self.sum_elem = np.zeros(self.num_ops, dtype=int)
for i, op in enumerate(ops):
self.ops[i] = <CSR_Matrix*> PyDataMem_NEW(sizeof(CSR_Matrix))
CSR_from_scipy_inplace(op[0].data, self.ops[i])
cummulative_op += op[0].data
self.sum_elem[i] = cummulative_op.data.shape[0]
self.total_elem = self.sum_elem[self.num_ops-1]
def set_factor(self, func=None, ptr=False, obj=None):
self.factor_use_cobj = 0
if func is not None:
self.factor_func = func
elif obj is not None:
self.factor_use_cobj = 1
self.factor_cobj = obj
else:
raise Exception("Could not set coefficient function")
def __getstate__(self):
shape_info = (self.shape0, self.shape1, self.dims, self.total_elem)
factor_info = (self.factor_use_cobj, self.factor_cobj,
self.factor_func, self.dyn_args)
cte_info = _shallow_get_state(&self.cte)
ops_info = ()
sum_elem = ()
for i in range(self.num_ops):
ops_info += (_shallow_get_state(self.ops[i]),)
sum_elem += (self.sum_elem[i],)
return (shape_info, self.super, factor_info,
self.num_ops, sum_elem, cte_info, ops_info)
def __setstate__(self, state):
self.shape0, self.shape1, self.dims, self.total_elem = state[0]
self.super = state[1]
self.factor_use_cobj = state[2][0]
if self.factor_use_cobj:
self.factor_cobj = <CoeffFunc> state[2][1]
self.factor_func = state[2][2]
self.dyn_args = state[2][3]
self.num_ops = state[3]
_shallow_set_state(&self.cte, state[5])
self.sum_elem = np.zeros(self.num_ops, dtype=int)
self.ops = <CSR_Matrix**> PyDataMem_NEW(self.num_ops * sizeof(CSR_Matrix*))
for i in range(self.num_ops):
self.ops[i] = <CSR_Matrix*> PyDataMem_NEW(sizeof(CSR_Matrix))
self.sum_elem[i] = state[4][i]
_shallow_set_state(self.ops[i], state[6][i])
self.coeff = np.empty((self.num_ops,), dtype=complex)
self.coeff_ptr = &self.coeff[0]
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef void _call_core(self, CSR_Matrix * out, complex* coeff):
cdef int i
cdef CSR_Matrix previous, next
if(self.num_ops ==1):
_zcsr_add_core(self.cte.data, self.cte.indices, self.cte.indptr,
self.ops[0].data, self.ops[0].indices,
self.ops[0].indptr,
coeff[0], out, self.shape0, self.shape1)
else:
# Ugly with a loop for 1 to N-2...
# It save the copy of data from cte and out
# no init/free to cte, out
init_CSR(&next, self.sum_elem[0], self.shape0, self.shape1)
_zcsr_add_core(self.cte.data, self.cte.indices, self.cte.indptr,
self.ops[0].data,
self.ops[0].indices,
self.ops[0].indptr,
coeff[0], &next, self.shape0, self.shape1)
previous, next = next, previous
for i in range(1,self.num_ops-1):
init_CSR(&next, self.sum_elem[i], self.shape0, self.shape1)
_zcsr_add_core(previous.data, previous.indices,
previous.indptr,
self.ops[i].data,
self.ops[i].indices,
self.ops[i].indptr,
coeff[i], &next, self.shape0, self.shape1)
free_CSR(&previous)
previous, next = next, previous
_zcsr_add_core(previous.data, previous.indices, previous.indptr,
self.ops[self.num_ops-1].data,
self.ops[self.num_ops-1].indices,
self.ops[self.num_ops-1].indptr,
coeff[self.num_ops-1], out, self.shape0, self.shape1)
free_CSR(&previous)
def call(self, double t, int data=0):
cdef CSR_Matrix out
init_CSR(&out, self.total_elem, self.shape0, self.shape1)
self._factor(t)
self._call_core(&out, self.coeff_ptr)
scipy_obj = CSR_to_scipy(&out)
# free_CSR(&out)? data is own by the scipy_obj?
if data:
return scipy_obj
else:
return Qobj(scipy_obj, dims=self.dims)
def call_with_coeff(self, complex[::1] coeff, int data=0):
cdef CSR_Matrix out
init_CSR(&out, self.total_elem, self.shape0, self.shape1)
self._call_core(&out, &coeff[0])
scipy_obj = CSR_to_scipy(&out)
# free_CSR(&out)? data is own by the scipy_obj?
if data:
return scipy_obj
else:
return Qobj(scipy_obj)
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef int _mul_vec(self, double t, complex* vec, complex* out) except -1:
cdef int[2] shape
shape[0] = self.shape1
shape[1] = 1
self._factor_dyn(t, vec, shape)
cdef int i
spmvpy(self.cte.data, self.cte.indices, self.cte.indptr, vec,
1., out, self.shape0)
for i in range(self.num_ops):
spmvpy(self.ops[i].data, self.ops[i].indices, self.ops[i].indptr,
vec, self.coeff_ptr[i], out, self.shape0)
return 0
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef int _mul_matf(self, double t, complex* mat, complex* out,
int nrow, int ncol) except -1:
cdef int[2] shape
shape[0] = nrow
shape[1] = ncol
self._factor_dyn(t, mat, shape)
cdef int i
_spmm_f_py(self.cte.data, self.cte.indices, self.cte.indptr, mat, 1.,
out, self.shape0, nrow, ncol)
for i in range(self.num_ops):
_spmm_f_py(self.ops[i].data, self.ops[i].indices, self.ops[i].indptr,
mat, self.coeff_ptr[i], out, self.shape0, nrow, ncol)
return 0
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef int _mul_matc(self, double t, complex* mat, complex* out,
int nrow, int ncol) except -1:
cdef int[2] shape
shape[0] = nrow
shape[1] = ncol
self._factor_dyn(t, mat, shape)
cdef int i
_spmm_c_py(self.cte.data, self.cte.indices, self.cte.indptr, mat, 1.,
out, self.shape0, nrow, ncol)
for i in range(self.num_ops):
_spmm_c_py(self.ops[i].data, self.ops[i].indices, self.ops[i].indptr,
mat, self.coeff_ptr[i], out, self.shape0, nrow, ncol)
return 0
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef complex _expect(self, double t, complex* vec) except *:
cdef complex [::1] y = np.zeros(self.shape0, dtype=complex)
cdef int row
cdef complex dot = 0
self._mul_vec(t, &vec[0], &y[0])
for row from 0 <= row < self.shape0:
dot += conj(vec[row]) * y[row]
return dot
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef complex _expect_super(self, double t, complex* vec) except *:
cdef int[2] shape
cdef int row, i
cdef int jj, row_start, row_end
cdef int num_rows = self.shape0
cdef int n = <int>libc.math.sqrt(num_rows)
cdef complex dot = 0.0
shape[0] = n
shape[1] = n
self._factor_dyn(t, vec, shape)
for row from 0 <= row < num_rows by n+1:
row_start = self.cte.indptr[row]
row_end = self.cte.indptr[row+1]
for jj from row_start <= jj < row_end:
dot += self.cte.data[jj]*vec[self.cte.indices[jj]]
for i in range(self.num_ops):
for row from 0 <= row < num_rows by n+1:
row_start = self.ops[i].indptr[row]
row_end = self.ops[i].indptr[row+1]
for jj from row_start <= jj < row_end:
dot += self.ops[i].data[jj] * \
vec[self.ops[i].indices[jj]] * self.coeff_ptr[i]
return dot
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef complex _overlapse(self, double t, complex* oper) except *:
"""tr( self * oper )"""
cdef int jj, row_start, row_end, row
cdef int num_rows = self.shape0
cdef complex tr = 0.0
cdef int[2] shape
shape[0] = self.shape0
shape[1] = self.shape0
self._factor_dyn(t, oper, shape)
for row in range(num_rows):
row_start = self.cte.indptr[row]
row_end = self.cte.indptr[row+1]
for jj from row_start <= jj < row_end:
tr += self.cte.data[jj] * \
oper[num_rows * row + self.cte.indices[jj]]
for i in range(self.num_ops):
for row in range(num_rows):
row_start = self.ops[i].indptr[row]
row_end = self.ops[i].indptr[row+1]
for jj from row_start <= jj < row_end:
tr += self.ops[i].data[jj] * self.coeff_ptr[i] * \
oper[num_rows * row + self.ops[i].indices[jj]]
return tr
cdef class CQobjEvoTdDense(CQobjEvo):
def set_data(self, cte, ops):
cdef int i, j, k
self.shape0 = cte.shape[0]
self.shape1 = cte.shape[1]
self.dims = cte.dims
self.super = cte.issuper
self.num_ops = len(ops)
self.cte = cte.data.toarray()
self.ops = np.zeros((self.num_ops, self.shape0, self.shape1),
dtype=complex)
self.data_t = np.empty((self.shape0, self.shape1), dtype=complex)
self.data_ptr = &self.data_t[0,0]
self.coeff = np.empty((self.num_ops,), dtype=complex)
self.coeff_ptr = &self.coeff[0]
for i, op in enumerate(ops):
oparray = op[0].data.toarray()
for j in range(self.shape0):
for k in range(self.shape1):
self.ops[i,j,k] = oparray[j,k]
def set_factor(self, func=None, ptr=False, obj=None):
self.factor_use_cobj = 0
if func is not None:
self.factor_func = func
elif obj is not None:
self.factor_use_cobj = 1
self.factor_cobj = obj
else:
raise Exception("Could not set coefficient function")
def __getstate__(self):
return (self.shape0, self.shape1, self.dims, self.super,
self.factor_use_cobj, self.factor_cobj,
self.factor_func, self.dyn_args, self.num_ops,
np.array(self.cte), np.array(self.ops))
def __setstate__(self, state):
self.shape0 = state[0]
self.shape1 = state[1]
self.dims = state[2]
self.super = state[3]
self.factor_use_cobj = state[4]
if self.factor_use_cobj:
self.factor_cobj = <CoeffFunc> state[5]
self.factor_func = state[6]
self.dyn_args = state[7]
self.num_ops = state[8]
self.cte = state[9]
self.ops = state[10]
self.data_t = np.empty((self.shape0, self.shape1), dtype=complex)
self.data_ptr = &self.data_t[0,0]
self.coeff = np.empty((self.num_ops,), dtype=complex)
self.coeff_ptr = &self.coeff[0]
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef void _call_core(self, complex[:,::1] out, complex* coeff):
cdef int i, j
cdef complex* ptr
cdef complex* out_ptr
#copy(self.cte, out)
ptr = &self.cte[0,0]
out_ptr = &out[0,0]
for i in range(self.shape0 * self.shape0):
out_ptr[i] = ptr[i]
for i in range(self.num_ops):
ptr = &self.ops[i,0,0]
for j in range(self.shape0 * self.shape0):
out_ptr[j] += ptr[j]*coeff[i]
def call(self, double t, int data=0):
cdef np.ndarray[complex, ndim=2] data_t = \
np.empty((self.shape0, self.shape1), dtype=complex)
self._factor(t)
self._call_core(data_t, self.coeff_ptr)
if data:
return sp.csr_matrix(data_t, dtype=complex, copy=True)
else:
return Qobj(data_t, dims = self.dims)
def call_with_coeff(self, complex[::1] coeff, int data=0):
cdef np.ndarray[complex, ndim=2] data_t = \
np.empty((self.shape0, self.shape1), dtype=complex)
self._call_core(data_t, &coeff[0])
if data:
return sp.csr_matrix(data_t, dtype=complex, copy=True)
else:
return Qobj(data_t, dims = self.dims)
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef int _mul_vec(self, double t, complex* vec, complex* out) except -1:
cdef int[2] shape
shape[0] = self.shape1
shape[1] = 1
self._factor_dyn(t, vec, shape)
self._call_core(self.data_t, self.coeff_ptr)
cdef int i, j
for i in range(self.shape0):
for j in range(self.shape1):
out[i] += self.data_t[i,j]*vec[j]
return 0
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef int _mul_matf(self, double t, complex* mat, complex* out,
int nrow, int ncol) except -1:
cdef int i, j, k
cdef int[2] shape
shape[0] = nrow
shape[1] = ncol
self._factor_dyn(t, mat, shape)
self._call_core(self.data_t, self.coeff_ptr)
for i in range(self.shape0):
for j in range(nrow):
for k in range(ncol):
out[i + j*self.shape0] += self.data_ptr[i*nrow + k] *\
mat[k + j*nrow]
return 0
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef int _mul_matc(self, double t, complex* mat, complex* out,
int nrow, int ncol) except -1:
cdef int i, j, k
cdef int[2] shape
shape[0] = nrow
shape[1] = ncol
self._factor_dyn(t, mat, shape)
self._call_core(self.data_t, self.coeff_ptr)
for i in range(self.shape0):
for j in range(ncol):
for k in range(nrow):
out[i*ncol + j] += self.data_ptr[i*nrow + k]*mat[k*ncol + j]
return 0
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef complex _expect(self, double t, complex* vec) except *:
cdef int row
cdef complex dot = 0
cdef int[2] shape
shape[0] = self.shape1
shape[1] = 1
self._factor_dyn(t, vec, shape)
self._call_core(self.data_t, self.coeff_ptr)
for i in range(self.shape0):
for j in range(self.shape1):
dot += conj(vec[i])*self.data_t[i,j]*vec[j]
return dot
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef complex _expect_super(self, double t, complex* vec) except *:
cdef int row, i
cdef int num_rows = self.shape0
cdef int n = <int>libc.math.sqrt(num_rows)
cdef complex dot = 0.0
cdef int[2] shape
shape[0] = n
shape[1] = n
self._factor_dyn(t, vec, shape)
self._call_core(self.data_t, self.coeff_ptr)
for row from 0 <= row < num_rows by n+1:
for i in range(self.shape1):
dot += self.data_t[row,i]*vec[i]
return dot
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef complex _overlapse(self, double t, complex* oper) except *:
cdef int i, j
cdef int[2] shape
shape[0] = self.shape0
shape[1] = self.shape0
self._factor_dyn(t, oper, shape)
self._call_core(self.data_t, self.coeff_ptr)
cdef complex tr = 0.0
for i in range(self.shape0):
for j in range(self.shape0):
tr += self.data_t[i, j] * oper[j*self.shape0 + i]
return tr
cdef class CQobjEvoTdMatched(CQobjEvo):
def set_data(self, cte, ops):
cdef int i, j
self.shape0 = cte.shape[0]
self.shape1 = cte.shape[1]
self.dims = cte.dims
self.super = cte.issuper
self.num_ops = len(ops)
self.coeff = np.zeros((self.num_ops), dtype=complex)
self.coeff_ptr = &self.coeff[0]
sparse_list = []
for op in ops:
sparse_list.append(op[0].data)
sparse_list += [cte.data]
matched = _zcsr_match(sparse_list)
self.indptr = matched[0].indptr
self.indices = matched[0].indices
self.cte = matched[-1].data
self.nnz = len(self.cte)
self.data_t = np.zeros((self.nnz), dtype=complex)
self.data_ptr = &self.data_t[0]
self.ops = np.zeros((self.num_ops, self.nnz), dtype=complex)
for i, op in enumerate(matched[:-1]):
for j in range(self.nnz):
self.ops[i,j] = op.data[j]
def set_factor(self, func=None, ptr=False, obj=None):
self.factor_use_cobj = 0
if func is not None:
self.factor_func = func
elif obj is not None:
self.factor_use_cobj = 1
self.factor_cobj = obj
else:
raise Exception("Could not set coefficient function")
def __getstate__(self):
return (self.shape0, self.shape1, self.dims, self.nnz, self.super,
self.factor_use_cobj, self.factor_cobj, self.factor_func,
self.dyn_args, self.num_ops,
np.array(self.indptr), np.array(self.indices),
np.array(self.cte), np.array(self.ops))
def __setstate__(self, state):
self.shape0 = state[0]
self.shape1 = state[1]
self.dims = state[2]
self.nnz = state[3]
self.super = state[4]
self.factor_use_cobj = state[5]
if self.factor_use_cobj:
self.factor_cobj = <CoeffFunc> state[6]
self.factor_func = state[7]
self.dyn_args = state[8]
self.num_ops = state[9]
self.indptr = state[10]
self.indices = state[11]
self.cte = state[12]
self.ops = state[13]
self.coeff = np.zeros((self.num_ops), dtype=complex)
self.coeff_ptr = &self.coeff[0]
self.data_t = np.zeros((self.nnz), dtype=complex)
self.data_ptr = &self.data_t[0]
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef void _call_core(self, complex[::1] out, complex* coeff):
cdef int i, j
cdef complex * ptr
ptr = &self.cte[0]
for j in range(self.nnz):
out[j] = ptr[j]
for i in range(self.num_ops):
ptr = &self.ops[i,0]
for j in range(self.nnz):
out[j] += ptr[j] * coeff[i]
def call(self, double t, int data=0):
cdef int i
cdef complex[::1] data_t = np.empty(self.nnz, dtype=complex)
self._factor(t)
self._call_core(data_t, self.coeff_ptr)
cdef CSR_Matrix out_csr
init_CSR(&out_csr, self.nnz, self.shape0, self.shape1)
for i in range(self.nnz):
out_csr.data[i] = data_t[i]
out_csr.indices[i] = self.indices[i]
for i in range(self.shape0+1):
out_csr.indptr[i] = self.indptr[i]
scipy_obj = CSR_to_scipy(&out_csr)
# free_CSR(&out)? data is own by the scipy_obj?
if data:
return scipy_obj
else:
return Qobj(scipy_obj, dims=self.dims)
def call_with_coeff(self, complex[::1] coeff, int data=0):
cdef complex[::1] out = np.empty(self.nnz, dtype=complex)
self._call_core(out, &coeff[0])
cdef CSR_Matrix out_csr
init_CSR(&out_csr, self.nnz, self.shape0, self.shape1)
for i in range(self.nnz):
out_csr.data[i] = out[i]
out_csr.indices[i] = self.indices[i]
for i in range(self.shape0+1):
out_csr.indptr[i] = self.indptr[i]
scipy_obj = CSR_to_scipy(&out_csr)
# free_CSR(&out)? data is own by the scipy_obj?
if data:
return scipy_obj
else:
return Qobj(scipy_obj, dims=self.dims)
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef int _mul_vec(self, double t, complex* vec, complex* out) except -1:
cdef int[2] shape
shape[0] = self.shape1
shape[1] = 1
self._factor_dyn(t, vec, shape)
self._call_core(self.data_t, self.coeff_ptr)
spmvpy(self.data_ptr, &self.indices[0], &self.indptr[0], vec,
1., out, self.shape0)
return 0
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef int _mul_matf(self, double t, complex* mat, complex* out,
int nrow, int ncol) except -1:
cdef int[2] shape
shape[0] = nrow
shape[1] = ncol
self._factor_dyn(t, mat, shape)
self._call_core(self.data_t, self.coeff_ptr)
_spmm_f_py(self.data_ptr, &self.indices[0], &self.indptr[0], mat, 1.,
out, self.shape0, nrow, ncol)
return 0
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef int _mul_matc(self, double t, complex* mat, complex* out,
int nrow, int ncol) except -1:
cdef int[2] shape
shape[0] = nrow
shape[1] = ncol
self._factor_dyn(t, mat, shape)
self._call_core(self.data_t, self.coeff_ptr)
_spmm_c_py(self.data_ptr, &self.indices[0], &self.indptr[0], mat, 1.,
out, self.shape0, nrow, ncol)
return 0
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef complex _expect(self, double t, complex* vec) except *:
cdef complex [::1] y = np.zeros(self.shape0, dtype=complex)
cdef int row
cdef complex dot = 0
self._mul_vec(t, &vec[0], &y[0])
for row from 0 <= row < self.shape0:
dot += conj(vec[row]) * y[row]
return dot
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef complex _expect_super(self, double t, complex* vec) except *:
cdef int row
cdef int jj, row_start, row_end
cdef int num_rows = self.shape0
cdef int n = <int>libc.math.sqrt(num_rows)
cdef complex dot = 0.0
cdef int[2] shape
shape[0] = n
shape[1] = n
self._factor_dyn(t, vec, shape)
self._call_core(self.data_t, self.coeff_ptr)
for row from 0 <= row < num_rows by n+1:
row_start = self.indptr[row]
row_end = self.indptr[row+1]
for jj from row_start <= jj < row_end:
dot += self.data_ptr[jj]*vec[self.indices[jj]]
return dot
@cython.boundscheck(False)
@cython.wraparound(False)
@cython.cdivision(True)
cdef complex _overlapse(self, double t, complex* oper) except *:
"""tr( self * oper )"""
cdef int row
cdef int jj, row_start, row_end
cdef int num_rows = self.shape0
cdef complex tr = 0.0
cdef int[2] shape
shape[0] = self.shape0
shape[1] = self.shape0
self._factor_dyn(t, oper, shape)
self._call_core(self.data_t, self.coeff_ptr)
for row in range(num_rows):
row_start = self.indptr[row]
row_end = self.indptr[row+1]
for jj from row_start <= jj < row_end:
tr += self.data_ptr[jj] * oper[num_rows*row + self.indices[jj]]
return tr
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Github"
}
|
Q:
Unix command to create a tar of a specified number of files
I am looking for a Unix command which will create a tar of 10 files from a directory.
A:
tar cf path_of_tar.tar $(ls | head -10)
Add options to ls to select the 10 you want.
A:
The command you're looking for is: tar
How it's usually used:
$ tar cf file.tar file1 file2...
|
{
"pile_set_name": "StackExchange"
}
|
Institutos de formación Listado de institutos y escuelas de las Fuerzas Armadas.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "OpenWebText2"
}
|
Championship
Leeds end 2019 as the division’s leaders after a day of supreme drama, stealing past West Brom, who lost 2-0 at home to Middlesbrough, after a chaotic 5-4 win at Birmingham where Wes Harding’s injury-time own-goal proved decisive.
Leeds stormed into a two-goal lead after strikes from Hélder Costa and Jack Harrison but a calm finish from 16-year-old Jude Bellingham was followed by Lukas Jutkiewicz’s scrambled header to make it 2-2. Luke Ayling’s dipping volley put Leeds back ahead only for Jeremy Bela’s header in the 83rd minute following goalkeeper’s Kiko Casilla’s misjudgement. Under 60 seconds later, Stuart Dallas scored his second late strike of the festive period to make it 4-3 to Leeds. Then came Jutkiewicz’s sliding finish at the far post, and Harding’s crucial mistake, forced by a fierce cross from the excellent Ayling.
A thumping header from Daniel Ayala put strugglers Middlesbrough in front against West Brom, who suffered a first home defeat of the season. Boro defended in numbers to protect their lead, only for Ashley Fletcher to score from fully 40 yards out to secure a vital win for Jonathan Woodgate’s team.
Middlesbrough’s Ashley Fletcher unleashes his long-range strike against West Brom. Photograph: Dave Howarth/PA
Fulham are in third after beating Stoke, with Bobby Decordova-Reid’s securing the Cottagers only their second win in six matches. Brentford’s run of form hit the skids in their trip across London to Millwall, whose goal came when Aiden O’Brien side-footed home in the first half, and who, in 11th, lie just two points off the play-off positions.
Bristol City’s recent slump came to an end with their 3-0 defeat of Luton, with Marley Watkins scoring in the fourth minute, Famara Diedhiou’s penalty on half-time and Andreas Weimann’s angled finish securing City’s first win in December.
Sixth-placed Sheffield Wednesday were two goals down to Cardiff within eight minutes thanks to Robert Glatzel and Junior Hoilett. Ten minutes later, Tom Lees halved the deficit but Wednesday never found an equaliser. Preston, in seventh, never located an answer to two early goals from Reading’s John Swift and Lucas João. Hull needed a late, close-range finish from Jackson Irvine to secure a 2-1 win at QPR.
Huddersfield fell behind to a goal from Blackburn’s Danny Graham but staged a second-half comeback capped by a thunderbolt of a strike from Steve Mounié. Brice Samba was Nottingham Forest’s hero, saving a penalty from Wigan’s Josh Windass, meaning that Tobias Figueiredo’s 60th minute header would prove the winner. Swansea and Barnsley played out a dour 0-0 draw at the Liberty Stadium, leaving the Tykes third-bottom but behind Stoke only on goal difference.
Quick Guide Championship results Show Birmingham 4-5 Leeds, Bristol City 3-0 Luton, Fulham 1-0 Stoke, Huddersfield 2-1 Blackburn, Millwall 1-0 Brentford, Nottm Forest 1-0 Wigan, Preston 0-2 Reading, QPR 1-2 Hull, Sheff Wed 1-2 Cardiff, Swansea 0-0 Barnsley, West Brom 0-2 Middlesbrough
League One
Leaders Wycombe suffered a third loss in succession while Coventry enjoyed a first away win of the campaign, with Matt Godden completing his hat-trick with a left-foot strike from distance in a 4-1 win that lifted the Sky Blues to fifth place.
Ipswich dropped from second after a 5-3 defeat at Lincoln made it almost two months without a win for Paul Lambert’s team. Oxford now occupy the second automatic promotion spot after Mark Sykes scored the decisive goal at AFC Wimbledon. A point behind are Rotherham, who started slowly against Peterborough before Richard Wood put them ahead in the 50th minute, and then calamity struck the visitors in the shape of own goals for Dan Butler and Joe Ward and a red card for Frankie Kent. Rotherham also had Joe Mattock sent off.
Sunderland’s woes were lifted by a 2-1 at Doncaster after Chris Maguire’s winner. And Fleetwood manager Joey Barton was sent off after a disallowed goal against Bristol Rovers in a goalless draw.
Quick Guide League One results Show Gillingham 1-0 Rochdale, Accrington 2-0 Burton, Bolton 1-1 Shrewsbury, Doncaster 1-2 Sunderland, Fleetwood 0-0 Bristol Rovers, Lincoln 5-3 Ipswich, MK Dons 3-1 Portsmouth, Rotherham 4-0 Peterborough, Tranmere 1-1 Blackpool, Wimbledon 1-2 Oxford Utd, Wycombe 1-4 Coventry
League Two
Port Vale’s 2-0 defeat of Swindon, courtesy of strikes from Scott Burgess and Jake Taylor, left a door open at the top of the table, only for second-placed Exeter to draw 2-2 at Colchester.
Forest Green are in sixth place after Farrend Rawson’s winner ended Macclesfield’s run of five successive draws, while Jake Jervis scored twice as Salford ran out 4-1 winners in their local derby with Oldham.
Grimsby, without a win since September, scored early against Crawley through Jake Hessenthaler but Ashley Nadesan’s equaliser denied them. Stevenage stayed bottom after Niall Canavan’s 96th minute winner for Plymouth.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "OpenWebText2"
}
|
'use strict';
var anObject = require('./_an-object')
, toPrimitive = require('./_to-primitive')
, NUMBER = 'number';
module.exports = function(hint){
if(hint !== 'string' && hint !== NUMBER && hint !== 'default')throw TypeError('Incorrect hint');
return toPrimitive(anObject(this), hint != NUMBER);
};
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Github"
}
|
US Organization
US Organization, or Organization Us, is a Black nationalist group in the United States founded in 1965. It was established as a community organization by Hakim Jamal together with Maulana Karenga. It was a rival to the Black Panther Party in California. One of the early slogans was, "Anywhere we are US is." "US" referred to "[us] black people" in opposition to their perceived oppressors ("them").
Foundation (1965)
After the assassination of Malcolm X in February 1965 and the Watts riots the following August, Maulana Karenga and Hakim Jamal began a discussion group called the "circle of seven". Hakim Jamal, cousin of Malcolm X, created a magazine entitled US. It was a pun on the phrase "us and them" and the standard abbreviation of "United States" and/or "United Slaves", referring to "Us Black People" as a nation. This promoted the idea of black cultural unity as a distinct national identity.
Jamal and Karenga founded the US Organization. They published a magazine Message to the Grassroot in 1966, in which Karenga was listed as chairman and Jamal as founder of the new group.
Aims
Its aim was to promote African-American cultural unity. Haiba Karenga and Dorothy Jamal, the wives of the two founders, ran the organization's "US School of Afroamerican Culture", to educate children with the group's ideals. However, their husbands soon differed about how to achieve the group's aims. Jamal argued that the ideas of Malcolm X should be the main ideological model for the group, while Karenga wished to root black Americans in African culture.
Karenga became the main active force in the group, organizing projects such as teaching Swahili and promoting traditional African rituals. Jamal believed that these had no relevance to modern African-American life, so he left "US" to establish the rival Malcolm X Foundation, based in Compton, California. Karenga became the driving force behind "US."
Creation of Kwanzaa (1966)
Karenga's ideas culminated in the invention of the Kwanzaa festival in 1966, designed as the first specifically African-American holiday. It was to be celebrated over the Christmas/New Year period. Karenga said his goal was to "give Blacks an alternative to the existing holiday and give Blacks an opportunity to celebrate themselves and history, rather than simply imitate the practice of the dominant society."
The group's ideals are summed up in the seven principles: Unity (Umoja), Self-Determination (Kujichagulia), Collective Work and Responsibility (Ujima), Cooperative Economics (Ujamaa), Purpose (Nia), Creativity (Kuumba), and Faith (Imani).
For Karenga, a major figure in the Black Power movement of the 1960s and 1970s, the creation of the holiday also underscored an essential premise that "you must have a cultural revolution before the violent revolution. The cultural revolution gives identity, purpose and direction."
Rivalry with the Black Panthers (1969)
The Black Panthers and US had different aims and tactics but often found themselves competing for potential recruits. The Federal Bureau of Investigation intensified this antipathy as part of its COINTELPRO operations, sending forged letters to each group which purported to be from the other group, so that each would believe that the other was publicly humiliating them. This rivalry came to a head in 1969, when the two groups supported different candidates to head the Afro-American Studies Center at the University of California, Los Angeles.
Gun battle at UCLA
On January 17, 1969, a gun battle between the groups on the UCLA campus ended in the deaths of two Black Panthers: John Huggins and Alprentice "Bunchy" Carter. This led to a series of retaliatory shootings that lasted for months. Later in 1969, two other Black Panther members were killed and one other was wounded by US members.
The Panthers referred to the US organization as the "United Slaves", a name never actually used by members of US but which is often mistaken for the group's official name.
Conviction of Karenga (1971)
In 1971, Karenga, Louis Smith, and Luz Maria Tamayo were convicted of felony assault.
He was sentenced to 1-to-10 years in prison.
Re-establishment (1971–present)
In 1971, the women of the organization continued organizing while Karenga was imprisoned. After his release in 1975 Karenga re-established the organization under a new structure and it continues to operate.
References
External links
The Organization Us
Children of the Revolutionary
FBI Docs Information about FBI files on the Us Organization
Category:1965 establishments in the United States
Category:African and Black nationalism in the United States
Category:African and Black nationalist organizations in North America
Category:Black Power
Category:COINTELPRO targets
Category:Organizations established in 1965
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Wikipedia (en)"
}
|
/*
* Copyright 2009-2010 WSO2, Inc. http://wso2.com
*
* Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the "License");
* you may not use this file except in compliance with the License.
* You may obtain a copy of the License at
*
* http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0
*
* Unless required by applicable law or agreed to in writing, software
* distributed under the License is distributed on an "AS IS" BASIS,
* WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied.
* See the License for the specific language governing permissions and
* limitations under the License.
*/
/**
* adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse.c
*
* This file was auto-generated from WSDL
* by the Apache Axis2/C version: SNAPSHOT Built on : Mar 10, 2008 (08:35:52 GMT+00:00)
*/
#include "adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse.h"
/*
* implmentation of the getOperationMessagePolicyResponse|http://org.apache.axis2/xsd element
*/
struct adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse
{
axis2_char_t *property_Type;
axutil_qname_t* qname;
axis2_char_t* property_return;
axis2_bool_t is_valid_return;
};
/************************* Private Function prototypes ********************************/
/************************* Function Implmentations ********************************/
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_t* AXIS2_CALL
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_create(
const axutil_env_t *env)
{
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_t *_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse = NULL;
axutil_qname_t* qname = NULL;
AXIS2_ENV_CHECK(env, NULL);
_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse = (adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_t *) AXIS2_MALLOC(env->
allocator, sizeof(adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_t));
if(NULL == _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse)
{
AXIS2_ERROR_SET(env->error, AXIS2_ERROR_NO_MEMORY, AXIS2_FAILURE);
return NULL;
}
memset(_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse, 0, sizeof(adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_t));
_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->property_Type = axutil_strdup(env, "adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse");
_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->property_return = NULL;
_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->is_valid_return = AXIS2_FALSE;
qname = axutil_qname_create (env,
"getOperationMessagePolicyResponse",
"http://org.apache.axis2/xsd",
NULL);
_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->qname = qname;
return _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse;
}
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_t* AXIS2_CALL
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_create_with_values(
const axutil_env_t *env,
axis2_char_t* _return)
{
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_t* adb_obj = NULL;
axis2_status_t status = AXIS2_SUCCESS;
adb_obj = adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_create(env);
status = adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_set_return(
adb_obj,
env,
_return);
if(status == AXIS2_FAILURE) {
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_free (adb_obj, env);
return NULL;
}
return adb_obj;
}
axis2_char_t* AXIS2_CALL
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_free_popping_value(
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_t* _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse,
const axutil_env_t *env)
{
axis2_char_t* value;
value = _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->property_return;
_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->property_return = (axis2_char_t*)NULL;
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_free(_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse, env);
return value;
}
axis2_status_t AXIS2_CALL
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_free(
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_t* _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse,
const axutil_env_t *env)
{
return adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_free_obj(
_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse,
env);
}
axis2_status_t AXIS2_CALL
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_free_obj(
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_t* _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse,
const axutil_env_t *env)
{
AXIS2_ENV_CHECK(env, AXIS2_FAILURE);
AXIS2_PARAM_CHECK(env->error, _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse, AXIS2_FAILURE);
if (_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->property_Type != NULL)
{
AXIS2_FREE(env->allocator, _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->property_Type);
}
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_reset_return(_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse, env);
if(_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->qname)
{
axutil_qname_free (_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->qname, env);
_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->qname = NULL;
}
if(_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse)
{
AXIS2_FREE(env->allocator, _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse);
_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse = NULL;
}
return AXIS2_SUCCESS;
}
axis2_status_t AXIS2_CALL
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_deserialize(
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_t* _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse,
const axutil_env_t *env,
axiom_node_t **dp_parent,
axis2_bool_t *dp_is_early_node_valid,
axis2_bool_t dont_care_minoccurs)
{
return adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_deserialize_obj(
_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse,
env,
dp_parent,
dp_is_early_node_valid,
dont_care_minoccurs);
}
axis2_status_t AXIS2_CALL
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_deserialize_obj(
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_t* _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse,
const axutil_env_t *env,
axiom_node_t **dp_parent,
axis2_bool_t *dp_is_early_node_valid,
axis2_bool_t dont_care_minoccurs)
{
axiom_node_t *parent = *dp_parent;
axis2_status_t status = AXIS2_SUCCESS;
const axis2_char_t* text_value = NULL;
axutil_qname_t *qname = NULL;
axutil_qname_t *element_qname = NULL;
axiom_node_t *first_node = NULL;
axis2_bool_t is_early_node_valid = AXIS2_TRUE;
axiom_node_t *current_node = NULL;
axiom_element_t *current_element = NULL;
AXIS2_ENV_CHECK(env, AXIS2_FAILURE);
AXIS2_PARAM_CHECK(env->error, _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse, AXIS2_FAILURE);
while(parent && axiom_node_get_node_type(parent, env) != AXIOM_ELEMENT)
{
parent = axiom_node_get_next_sibling(parent, env);
}
if (NULL == parent)
{
/* This should be checked before everything */
AXIS2_LOG_ERROR(env->log, AXIS2_LOG_SI,
"Failed in building adb object for getOperationMessagePolicyResponse : "
"NULL element can not be passed to deserialize");
return AXIS2_FAILURE;
}
current_element = (axiom_element_t *)axiom_node_get_data_element(parent, env);
qname = axiom_element_get_qname(current_element, env, parent);
if (axutil_qname_equals(qname, env, _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse-> qname))
{
first_node = axiom_node_get_first_child(parent, env);
}
else
{
AXIS2_LOG_ERROR(env->log, AXIS2_LOG_SI,
"Failed in building adb object for getOperationMessagePolicyResponse : "
"Expected %s but returned %s",
axutil_qname_to_string(_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse-> qname, env),
axutil_qname_to_string(qname, env));
return AXIS2_FAILURE;
}
/*
* building return element
*/
current_node = first_node;
is_early_node_valid = AXIS2_FALSE;
while(current_node && axiom_node_get_node_type(current_node, env) != AXIOM_ELEMENT)
{
current_node = axiom_node_get_next_sibling(current_node, env);
}
if(current_node != NULL)
{
current_element = (axiom_element_t *)axiom_node_get_data_element(current_node, env);
qname = axiom_element_get_qname(current_element, env, current_node);
}
element_qname = axutil_qname_create(env, "return", "http://org.apache.axis2/xsd", NULL);
if (
(current_node && current_element && (axutil_qname_equals(element_qname, env, qname))))
{
if( current_node && current_element && (axutil_qname_equals(element_qname, env, qname)))
{
is_early_node_valid = AXIS2_TRUE;
}
text_value = axiom_element_get_text(current_element, env, current_node);
if(text_value != NULL)
{
status = adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_set_return(_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse, env,
text_value);
}
if(AXIS2_FAILURE == status)
{
AXIS2_LOG_ERROR(env->log, AXIS2_LOG_SI, "failed in setting the value for return ");
if(element_qname)
{
axutil_qname_free(element_qname, env);
}
return AXIS2_FAILURE;
}
}
if(element_qname)
{
axutil_qname_free(element_qname, env);
element_qname = NULL;
}
return status;
}
axis2_bool_t AXIS2_CALL
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_is_particle()
{
return AXIS2_FALSE;
}
void AXIS2_CALL
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_declare_parent_namespaces(
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_t* _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse,
const axutil_env_t *env, axiom_element_t *parent_element,
axutil_hash_t *namespaces, int *next_ns_index)
{
/* Here this is an empty function, Nothing to declare */
}
axiom_node_t* AXIS2_CALL
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_serialize(
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_t* _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse,
const axutil_env_t *env, axiom_node_t *parent, axiom_element_t *parent_element, int parent_tag_closed, axutil_hash_t *namespaces, int *next_ns_index)
{
return adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_serialize_obj(
_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse, env, parent, parent_element, parent_tag_closed, namespaces, next_ns_index);
}
axiom_node_t* AXIS2_CALL
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_serialize_obj(
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_t* _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse,
const axutil_env_t *env, axiom_node_t *parent, axiom_element_t *parent_element, int parent_tag_closed, axutil_hash_t *namespaces, int *next_ns_index)
{
axiom_node_t* current_node = NULL;
int tag_closed = 0;
axiom_namespace_t *ns1 = NULL;
axis2_char_t *qname_uri = NULL;
axis2_char_t *qname_prefix = NULL;
axis2_char_t *p_prefix = NULL;
axis2_bool_t ns_already_defined;
axis2_char_t *text_value_1;
axis2_char_t *text_value_1_temp;
axis2_char_t *start_input_str = NULL;
axis2_char_t *end_input_str = NULL;
unsigned int start_input_str_len = 0;
unsigned int end_input_str_len = 0;
axiom_data_source_t *data_source = NULL;
axutil_stream_t *stream = NULL;
int next_ns_index_value = 0;
AXIS2_ENV_CHECK(env, NULL);
AXIS2_PARAM_CHECK(env->error, _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse, NULL);
namespaces = axutil_hash_make(env);
next_ns_index = &next_ns_index_value;
ns1 = axiom_namespace_create (env,
"http://org.apache.axis2/xsd",
"n");
axutil_hash_set(namespaces, "http://org.apache.axis2/xsd", AXIS2_HASH_KEY_STRING, axutil_strdup(env, "n"));
parent_element = axiom_element_create (env, NULL, "getOperationMessagePolicyResponse", ns1 , &parent);
axiom_element_set_namespace(parent_element, env, ns1, parent);
data_source = axiom_data_source_create(env, parent, ¤t_node);
stream = axiom_data_source_get_stream(data_source, env);
if(!(p_prefix = (axis2_char_t*)axutil_hash_get(namespaces, "http://org.apache.axis2/xsd", AXIS2_HASH_KEY_STRING)))
{
p_prefix = (axis2_char_t*)AXIS2_MALLOC(env->allocator, sizeof (axis2_char_t) * ADB_DEFAULT_NAMESPACE_PREFIX_LIMIT);
sprintf(p_prefix, "n%d", (*next_ns_index)++);
axutil_hash_set(namespaces, "http://org.apache.axis2/xsd", AXIS2_HASH_KEY_STRING, p_prefix);
axiom_element_declare_namespace_assume_param_ownership(parent_element, env, axiom_namespace_create (env,
"http://org.apache.axis2/xsd",
p_prefix));
}
if (!_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->is_valid_return)
{
/* no need to complain for minoccurs=0 element */
}
else
{
start_input_str = (axis2_char_t*)AXIS2_MALLOC(env->allocator, sizeof(axis2_char_t) *
(4 + axutil_strlen(p_prefix) +
axutil_strlen("return")));
/* axutil_strlen("<:>") + 1 = 4 */
end_input_str = (axis2_char_t*)AXIS2_MALLOC(env->allocator, sizeof(axis2_char_t) *
(5 + axutil_strlen(p_prefix) + axutil_strlen("return")));
/* axutil_strlen("</:>") + 1 = 5 */
/*
* parsing return element
*/
sprintf(start_input_str, "<%s%sreturn>",
p_prefix?p_prefix:"",
(p_prefix && axutil_strcmp(p_prefix, ""))?":":"");
start_input_str_len = axutil_strlen(start_input_str);
sprintf(end_input_str, "</%s%sreturn>",
p_prefix?p_prefix:"",
(p_prefix && axutil_strcmp(p_prefix, ""))?":":"");
end_input_str_len = axutil_strlen(end_input_str);
text_value_1 = _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->property_return;
axutil_stream_write(stream, env, start_input_str, start_input_str_len);
text_value_1_temp = axutil_xml_quote_string(env, text_value_1, AXIS2_TRUE);
if (text_value_1_temp)
{
axutil_stream_write(stream, env, text_value_1_temp, axutil_strlen(text_value_1_temp));
AXIS2_FREE(env->allocator, text_value_1_temp);
}
else
{
axutil_stream_write(stream, env, text_value_1, axutil_strlen(text_value_1));
}
axutil_stream_write(stream, env, end_input_str, end_input_str_len);
AXIS2_FREE(env->allocator,start_input_str);
AXIS2_FREE(env->allocator,end_input_str);
}
if(namespaces)
{
axutil_hash_index_t *hi;
void *val;
for (hi = axutil_hash_first(namespaces, env); hi; hi = axutil_hash_next(env, hi))
{
axutil_hash_this(hi, NULL, NULL, &val);
AXIS2_FREE(env->allocator, val);
}
axutil_hash_free(namespaces, env);
}
return parent;
}
/**
* Getter for return by Property Number 1
*/
axis2_char_t* AXIS2_CALL
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_get_property1(
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_t* _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse,
const axutil_env_t *env)
{
return adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_get_return(_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse,
env);
}
/**
* getter for return.
*/
axis2_char_t* AXIS2_CALL
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_get_return(
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_t* _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse,
const axutil_env_t *env)
{
AXIS2_ENV_CHECK(env, NULL);
AXIS2_PARAM_CHECK(env->error, _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse, NULL);
return _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->property_return;
}
/**
* setter for return
*/
axis2_status_t AXIS2_CALL
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_set_return(
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_t* _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse,
const axutil_env_t *env,
const axis2_char_t* arg_return)
{
AXIS2_ENV_CHECK(env, AXIS2_FAILURE);
AXIS2_PARAM_CHECK(env->error, _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse, AXIS2_FAILURE);
if(_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->is_valid_return &&
arg_return == _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->property_return)
{
return AXIS2_SUCCESS;
}
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_reset_return(_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse, env);
if(NULL == arg_return)
{
/* We are already done */
return AXIS2_SUCCESS;
}
_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->property_return = (axis2_char_t *)axutil_strdup(env, arg_return);
if(NULL == _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->property_return)
{
AXIS2_LOG_ERROR(env->log, AXIS2_LOG_SI, "Error allocating memeory for return");
return AXIS2_FAILURE;
}
_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->is_valid_return = AXIS2_TRUE;
return AXIS2_SUCCESS;
}
/**
* resetter for return
*/
axis2_status_t AXIS2_CALL
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_reset_return(
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_t* _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse,
const axutil_env_t *env)
{
int i = 0;
int count = 0;
void *element = NULL;
AXIS2_ENV_CHECK(env, AXIS2_FAILURE);
AXIS2_PARAM_CHECK(env->error, _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse, AXIS2_FAILURE);
if(_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->property_return != NULL)
{
AXIS2_FREE(env-> allocator, _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->property_return);
_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->property_return = NULL;
}
_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->is_valid_return = AXIS2_FALSE;
return AXIS2_SUCCESS;
}
/**
* Check whether return is nill
*/
axis2_bool_t AXIS2_CALL
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_is_return_nil(
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_t* _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse,
const axutil_env_t *env)
{
AXIS2_ENV_CHECK(env, AXIS2_TRUE);
AXIS2_PARAM_CHECK(env->error, _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse, AXIS2_TRUE);
return !_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse->is_valid_return;
}
/**
* Set return to nill (currently the same as reset)
*/
axis2_status_t AXIS2_CALL
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_set_return_nil(
adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_t* _getOperationMessagePolicyResponse,
const axutil_env_t *env)
{
return adb_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse_reset_return(_getOperationMessagePolicyResponse, env);
}
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Github"
}
|
//===----------------------------------------------------------------------===//
//
// Part of the LLVM Project, under the Apache License v2.0 with LLVM Exceptions.
// See https://llvm.org/LICENSE.txt for license information.
// SPDX-License-Identifier: Apache-2.0 WITH LLVM-exception
//
//===----------------------------------------------------------------------===//
//
// XFAIL: c++98, c++03, c++11
// <map>
// class multimap
// iterator find(const key_type& k);
// const_iterator find(const key_type& k) const;
//
// The member function templates find, count, lower_bound, upper_bound, and
// equal_range shall not participate in overload resolution unless the
// qualified-id Compare::is_transparent is valid and denotes a type
#include <map>
#include <cassert>
#include "is_transparent.h"
int main(int, char**)
{
{
typedef std::multimap<int, double, transparent_less> M;
M example;
assert(example.find(C2Int{5}) == example.end());
}
{
typedef std::multimap<int, double, transparent_less_not_referenceable> M;
M example;
assert(example.find(C2Int{5}) == example.end());
}
return 0;
}
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Github"
}
|
Q:
Lua tables - Can you use it as an array with key?
players={
{uuid = "abc",name = "TheEisbaer"},
{uuid= "def",name ="Eisbaer68"},
{uuid= "ghj",name = "kevin"}
}
list={name = "TheEisbaer", name = "Eisbaer68"}
With print(list.name) it prints "Eisbaer68".
How do I get it to print "TheEisbaer"?
-
Can you do something like print(players[3].uuid) or how would one do that?
A:
If I understand (and believe me, it's not easy) what you're trying to do:
First of all:
list={name = "TheEisbaer", name = "Eisbaer68"}
is equivalent to
list={name = "Eisbaer68"}
or, more clearly, perhaps:
list={}
list.name = "TheEisbaer"
list.name = "Eisbaer68"
As you use the same key twice in the same table, the most recent key value overwrites the previous one.
It seems you want to achieve the equivalent of a 'join' in databases. If you want to display (or, in general, filter) those 'records' from players that have their 'name' appear also in list, maybe something like this:
players =
{
{uuid= 'abc', name = 'TheEisbaer' },
{uuid= 'def', name = 'Eisbaer68' },
{uuid= 'ghj', name = 'kevin' },
}
list = { TheEisbaer=true, Eisbaer68=true }
for _,t in ipairs(players) do
if list[t.name] then --if key exists in list table ...
print(t.name .. ' => ' .. t.uuid)
end
end
Here the list has keys to make it simpler to lookup. You could also do it differently but it would probably require a nested FOR loop to go through all possible combinations between the two tables.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "StackExchange"
}
|
Friday, October 17, 2014
You left today…finally! It’s been
precisely three months since you first broke the news. The news that your
husband is being relocated to London and you will move there for good. At first, I didn’t quite believe you…your sporadic
pranks are to be accused. But in due course, as you shared the development and
the ensuing planning, I was sure about the move…Damn! It was true….very much….and
although it took me a while to get attuned to the fact, somewhere I was preparing
myself for this farewell.
As days passed by, you got busy
with all the formalities, kids’ vaccinations, visas, and so on and so forth.
Gosh! It’s a agony to shift and double of it to shift to an overseas location. But
you handled everything so well and with such great gusto…yeah…yeah! London it
is, after all! And having spent a few months in UK, I know how it feels when
such an opportunity just knocks the doors!
After all the essential
formalities came very significant task…Yaayyyyyy! The S word…..Shopping. We
shopped and shopped and shopped….everything that we could think of. You name it
and we bought it. I loved carrying those M&S, Zara, Mango shopping bags
around while you walked like a duchess….that’s one business I would never dislike!
I still reminisce the first time
I met you. Our sons shared the same class last year and we ended up being a
part of the same whatsapp group primarily created to exchange the school
related notes and other communications. Out of 30 odd members, a bunch of
around 5-6 grew awfully closer through the chats and considering the fact that
we had never met, we decided to meet over a coffee. After casual greetings,
just as we were settling down in the coffee shop, I saw you getting out of your
car in a chick salwar suit with high heeled sandals. Your hair were duly done
up and eyes lined up with kohl giving a boost to your personality. Yes, you looked
no less than a royalty as you walked up the stairs. By the end of that meet, I
had formed my opinions about everyone and especially you. I didn’t think that I
could ever be friends with you in spite meeting you couple of more times in the
school. And that’s the whole point……how did I ever reach a point in my life
where you became my besssttteeessssttttt friend ever. It’s been a little over a
year but it feels like we’ve known each other since ages. You can literally
read my mind and vice versa. You can instantaneously guess my reactions to circumstances.
You can lift me up when I am low. You and only you can handle my idiocy and occasional
mood swings and still love me. You turned out to be a major part of my life…literally….or
shall we say a sister from another mother….!!
And today you’re gone such far
away. I recognize that technology has abridged the distance deeply…but I am
still gonna miss those never-ending chats until wee hours in the morning. Those
shopping trips exploring the bylanes of Pali Hill, Linking Road and Lokhandwala
markets. Those whole-hearted laughs in rains over paani-puris, those little
things you did for my kids, and those kiddies get-togethers we organized to
sneak a chance to spend time together. Huuhhhhhh! (A long sigh) I am gonna miss
all this. I am gonna miss you, BFF!
I wish you all the best for this
move and a new chapter in your life…! Loads of love to your chipmunks! I am
going to miss them too! I am ending this letter with a wonderful quote I found on Google....
Monday, August 18, 2014
Seriously, it’s been a heck of a
lifetime since I last updated my blog. Yes, I’ve been busy with my hands full
but that still doesn’t justify the reason for not updating the blog…especially
when I am so passionate and possessive about it. Well, to put it in a nutshell, lots of things happened over the last 4+ odd months.
My son’s Thread Ceremony
was quite an elaborate affair with dear friends and family attending it in
Goa. Me and Chetan tried to play perfect hosts ensuring that everyone is duly
taken care of. It was a fun week meeting all the family and friends under one
roof. New friends were made, new relations formed and I am glad everyone had a
great time. By the time, it all got over, we were so exhausted and that’s when
our quick vacation to Himalayan Village, Sonapani (Yes, we are simply in love
with that place and we WILL continue to go there…over and over….) came to the
rescue. Ashish and Deepa played perfect hosts making sure we totally unwind
before we were ready to face our mundane routine back. This brief vacation was
a much needed rescue to our tired souls and exhausted bodies. Kids had fun too…for
the first time in their lives, they had witnessed something absolutely
breathtaking. Plucking fresh fruits like apricots, peaches, pears straight from
the trees and eating them. Well, honestly, it’s something even me and Chetan
had done for the first time, too!
Come mid-June and we were back to
our routine. The kid’s vacation time got over and before I could blink my eyes,
they were already back to school….in Second Grade! That’s another thing I just
can’t bring myself to term with….the rate at which kids are growing. It feels
just yesterday when I dropped and picked them up from their Nursery across the street
and here they are…all grown up…already in their Second Grade. I guess, that’s
something I will have to live for the rest of my life…although they grow
bigger, smarter and better with each day…somewhere deep down, I still wish for
those babies still in the diapers, crawling on the floor just longing for
attention.
The weekends are just fleeting by….they
just don’t exist beyond the normal grocery shopping, a visit to the market for
veggies, the weekly laundry, lunches/dinners out or a movie. Oh! I just realized
that I pretty much covered everything what one is actually supposed (???) to do
over the weekend. Basically, we both like to do almost the similar things so
there’s hardly any debate over the choices as how to spend the weekend.
However, with my growing bundles of joy, it’s more like a juggling happening.
My son is more like a peace lover. If given a choice, he would spend the entire
day at home lying on the couch or on his iPad than stepping out with us. My daughter
is more of an attention seeker. She’s totally me. Fun loving, outgoing, don’t-like-to-be-trapped-at-home
kinda. Hence, juggling between son’s preferences and daughter’s choices is a
bit of a challenge for us these days. But I guess, if we manage tactfully, we
can still steal a few more years to dictate our terms and get the things moving….So,
here’s to parenting….parenting of the Twins…parenting of Twins with different
choices!
And just before I say bye...Here’s
a short incident that happened at a Mall yesterday where we spent our leisurely
Sunday evening. While the boys stood in the line for the movie ticket, daughter
and I decided to just sit and watch people. We happened to grab a seat bang opposite
the store ‘Lifestyle’… After she watched consistently at it, she just popped a
question out of nowhere… “Mamma, why are some people going in that Lifestyle
while some choose not to go?” I was a bit startled at her out-of-nowhere-question and before
I could collect some ideas to answer it to her satisfaction…she just screamed… “Oh!
I know it… The people with Style in their Life, go in the Lifestyle and people
who have no Style in their Life, choose not to go in the Lifestyle…” OMG…I didn’t
know how to react to it….but the lady sitting next to me, certainly did. She
stood up and extended a warm handshake with my daughter and said..”Young Lady,
I don’t know about the people you are referring to…but you certainly will have
lot of Style in your Life…” While she left with her own sweet daughter, I
couldn’t help see my daughter blushing at her remarks….
Love you Akshat & Aashvi...here's a birthday song I found that I am sure you'll enjoy watching....:-)
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Yes, it's really been quite a long time! However hard I attempt to stick to my pursuit of updating my
blog regularly, I, one way or another, fail to stick to this commitment! More
than you, I should be seeking my own mercy which doesn't sound that cool!
Things have been stirring at a melodramatically faster pace.
Although, we let go of the plan to shift home for the time being, there are
oodles of other tasks that were nippy enough to brawl for the top slots on the
to-do list. For those who are not aware, we have planned (or rather still
planning) a function in Goa to mark the Thread Ceremony of our son. We
hope to keep it quite a homely and private event as he isn't too comfortable amongst too many unaccustomed faces. And because it’s HIS day, we have
made it obvious to respect HIS feelings. It’s in May, and I am already dreading about how hot and humid Goa will be by then considering I've already had an extreme spat with it just this weekend. With all that holy fire
around, the people and the weather…God help me in dealing with my little man!
Trust me; he’s one hell of a monster when it comes to crowd, heat and rush!
Planning, as I said, is still underway. Just finalized the venue
decorator this weekend and I must say man...it does cost a bomb! However, many things are still in the To-Do list. Hubby is no good when it comes to assisting in all these
matters. I am glad he lent a hand while dealing with the most important
task…the saree shopping! I guess, he feels that it’s the only agenda that takes such a function to its own sweet end. And Hubby, if you are reading this…No, it doesn't…there are million other stuffs that I am single-handedly dealing with and
you have absolutely no idea about…..(Well, I can say, I prefer to keep it that way....remember the old saying? Too many cooks spoil the dish??? Yes, exactly.... :-)
Kids are back in school with a brand new academic year…a sleek new
classroom, new friends and most prominently new teachers. Daughter is pretty
excited and happy with her new teacher…well, Son takes time to adjust to
anything that’s new and a new teacher is just another human…wish she had a
remote control with her to tickle his ‘interest’ bones!
One advantage about not moving the home is you get to keep your
old, obedient and honest staff. I was so anxious about the cycle of
finding-trying-liking-changing-maids and I am so happy that I will not have to
go through it all over again! But yes, kids will spend a little more time in
travelling to school which was the foremost motive behind the decision to move.
I guess for every little pleasure, one has to pay the price. For right now, I
am gratified with wherever I am and I hope that any move, if there is at all,
will be for the better!
Yyyyaaaaaaayyyyy! Its kids’ birthday this weekend. Can’t believe
they’ll be seven! Seven exquisite years spent with them with most beautiful
memories to cherish! They’ll grow bigger and brighter with each passing year
but for me and Hubby, they’ll always be little bundles of joy that were handed
over to us on 12th April, 2007! No one can ever take away that
moment from us! Something that’s too priceless to even share! We have nothing
special planned for them this year but we do want to do whatever they wish on
their special day –even if that means swimming in the beach at 2 o’clock in the
afternoon under sweltering sun! God bless the chipmunks and their weird wishes!
See you soon! Have a great week and then the weekend and then
the week again and then the weekend again……! Well, you know what I mean..:-P
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
With kids’ final exams, come other
associated undertakings like projects, assignments and loads of other stuffs. I
am surely not grouchy about them as I really enjoy myself being a part of these
activities. When I was a kid myself, I remember spending a lot of time and
efforts in researching, collecting pictures, etc. to complete these projects.
Today, life’s become laid-back with Google at our service. At a click,
you get the information, pictures and everything that you need. Jai
Google Baba ki!!
Kids finals are scheduled during the
first week of March and if you are thinking that it would bring some respite to
me…hold that thought right there! There are loads of other activities in
planning stage… shifting into a new place is the first one. And just while we
would be settling down there, approaches their birthday which I have been
‘informed’ would be quite an affair with all their friends from school. Bingo!
After the birthday, it’s time for son’s ‘Thread Ceremony’ which is planned in
Goa in the month of May. So, I’ll be spending a considerate amount of
time in Goa before the function tackling plentiful preparatory
activities. And as Hubby plans to join in just a day prior to the
function, it’ll be a solo show.
After the ceremony, we plan to head
straight to the Himalayas to unwind ourselves after all that hustle bustle.
Yes, we’re heading to The Himalayan Village at Sonapani. Yet
again! Kids just love that place and it was their appeal to spend some time
there which we decided to honour. We have been told by the owners that June is
the best time to visit as their orchards will be thriving with fruits like
peaches, apples, oranges and so many others that kids can enjoy! So, we are
highly looking forward towards this trip. I am, particularly, looking forward
to the peaceful atmosphere, the clear blue sky, the enthralling Himalayas that
I can park myself and watch for hours and the home-cooked and absolutely tasty
meals and deserts. Now that I know the surroundings pretty well, an idea of a
lone and peaceful walk cannot be ruled out, too.
Aaah! I hope that by the time we are back to Aamchi Mumbai, we all are super charged up to resume our daily lives!
Friday, January 31, 2014
“Many a times, I feel totally irritated
sitting with kids and helping them in their studies. My patience is at its peak
when any of them takes a longer time to understand any concept. I get upset
while I am at it but when I tuck them in bed at night, I feel terribly guilty...feel
like a monster mom for not handling the things properly. Gosh...it's like an
emotional turbulence within me. As Moms, are you girls facing the same or it's
just me???”
Yes, I meant every word of it. I am feeling that I am losing
out on something. I am feeling that my patience levels are suddenly dropping. I
have a feeling that I am turning into an insane and oblivious human being….a Monster Mom!
Kids are growing up and so are my duties and accountabilities
as their Mother. They are no longer nappy-happy broods. Their interests are mounting
beyond my judgements. Their hobbies are altering with each fleeting moment.
Their vocabulary is sky scorching every minute. Their reactions, retorts,
jargon, lingo and ever fluctuating moods…their inquisitiveness, their exasperation and their outlook
makes me brood over whether I am sinking in my futile efforts in coping up with
their intensifying sensibilities.
All this strongly makes me believe that I am entering a
second phase of this journey called Motherhood. Kids want to be treated as one of us…more specifically as Adults. They demand
that their opinions be considered while taking any decisions involving them. Their
privacy be respected, their choices be honoured and most importantly they be
treated with lots and lots of esteem.
Things are really changing…or should I say they're already changed beyond one’s imagination. Until I was well past my
schooling, I just don’t recall a single thing bought for me
entirely by my choice…well, my mom always had a final say in
what I would wear, which colour would suit my personality the best, what
hairstyle will look good for my face cut or even whether I should participate
in events at school or not. Well, today, I am being ‘informed’ that a ‘certain’ kind of dress is on the next ‘to-shop’ list, a crave for a McD meal over
weekend or even where to go for the vacations. Whoa! All the innovation in the
technology, the remarkable progress man has made over these years and the exposure
these kids have today is finally taking a toll on Mothers…that’s the final word!
So, here’s to all those brilliant Moms out there
who are screaming their guts out to ensure a childhood their kids will always
be proud of….you rock, Babe! Nothing and no one can
beat what you do!
Saturday, January 4, 2014
Well...this post should have come before the 2013 ended but true to my legacy, I am late with this one...so, please excuse...Sharing here some snaps of our Christmas celebrations. Some of you must have already seen these through Facebook.
Standing in the queue for the fun to begin....
Whoa...I am all for it.. :-)
And the fun begins...
Am I not total Christmassy??
Our favourite!
Some snacks after the games
Thank God for the Frooti!
Such discipline I tell you :-P
What is it that I am missing on?
Our favourite pose :-)
We decorated this.....!
We love this...
Such pleasure..
Isn't it cute?
Singing carols...
I am at my favourite activity....modelling for Mom!
Is this a good pose?
Oh! C'on..I am just tired!
Ornaments at our home..
Merry Christmas
Cute Little Fairy!
So nice...
Isn't it cute?
There are loads of other pictures too but I shall resist my temptation of publishing them all here....But I warn you that you'll see a lot more of my pictures in 2014 as I seriously intent to click and publish some of the best shots....!
I am not somebody who stalwartly
believes in making the resolutions at the commencement of each year. It’s not
that I never practiced so…Of course, I did! However, I soon recognized that
most resolutions meet a disastrous finale….some gets just overlooked over the
period while some just gets out of the memory lane and the lingering ones are
just given a clean miss over other urgencies… In all conscience, I have
experienced all of the above and hence I do not make any resolutions and take
life the way it’s thrown upon me.
We had a fabulous Christmas
vacation with my Mom joining in from Goa. Kids were exhilarated to be with
their Aaji and so did she. Those 10 days were truly remarkable as both of them
could spend some quality time together. Well, as far as I am concerned, I have outdone
the age of being ecstatic at my Mom’s arrival. It’s not that I don’t like her
being around…I certainly do. However, I like to find pleasure in doing things
which at times she doesn’t favour. And the real awkwardness is born when she
finds it tough to express it. My relations with her now are more like soul
mates than mother-daughter. We discuss the entire world under this moon may it
be from her job to my maids to what-she-should-be-wearing-for-a-function….And I
love it that way. Well, I love her and I
wish her a very healthy and happy life.
Now that the schools have
resumed, I am back to the grind….and so are the kids. I am hoping that 2014 will motivate me harder
to keep up to writing and updating my blog in addition to my other assignments.
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Finally watched ‘TheLunchbox’. Since I saw
the trailors of the movie, I wanted to catch it anyhow. Besides, the entire cast
of the film was just fuelling up my desire further. I love Irrfan Khan. His
acting has always charmed me right from the Badrinath/Somnath
Twin characters he played in the epic tele-serial ‘Chandrakanta’. Films like Maqbool, Pan Singh Tomar, The Namesake, A Mighty Heart, Slumdog Millionaire, New
York and not to forget Life of Pi
further substantiated his acting abilities and tagged him as one of the hand-picked
actors this industry has to provide.
About the actress Nimrit Kaur, she’s certainly awesome with a very stout
existence on screen. It’s not easy to leave a noteworthy mark especially in the
presence of two biggies, but she’s done a decent job in mitigating her role as Ila. Considering this is her debut film
in a lead role, Nimrit Kaur enticed me with her terrific performance.
What do I say about Nawazuddin Siddiqui! This man has just wooed me
right from the first time I saw him on screen. He has portrayed strong characters
in films like New York, Dev D, Firaaq,
Black Friday, Gangs of Wasseypur I & II, Kahaani, Peepli Live & Talaash.
In TheLunchbox,
he plays Irrfan Khan’s assistant in his office doing a delightful job and flawlessly
complimenting Irrfan Khan. The duo efficaciously crafts a total mystic on
screen carrying the audience in a different domain.
Ila
(Nimrit Kaur) is like any other middle-class Mumbai housewife. Her day starts
early and involves the daily doings like getting her only daughter ready for
school, preparing food for her husband who doesn’t seem to have any interest left
in either Ila or their marriage, laundry, shopping, etc. She’s intensely alone. Call it a blunder, fluke
or sheer fortune, one day the lunchbox is not delivered to her husband but
reaches the desk of Saajan Fernandes
(Irrfan). This lunchbox brings certain passion in this widower’s lonely life. Saajan tastes the flavours of love after
years of depending on the boring mess food. His soul is warmed by this food. Ila realises that the tiffin she so
dearly packs for her husband is had by someone else but is happy to see it all
clean at the end of the day. On the insistence of her neighbouring ‘Aunty’ (It’s just the voice that’s
portrayed and I have a strong feeling it’s of Bharti Achrekar, another noted
actress), she decides to write a note to ‘the other man’ and sends it along
with the lunchbox the next day. Saajan
replies this note and thus begins an exchange of notes on regular basis leading
to a vague bond. Ila and Saajan revive themselves with these
handwritten notes. They decide to give life another chance.
The
film beautifully deals with depression, isolation and unanswered love. TheLunchbox
is also an ode to Mumbai. You peep into the jam-packed local trains, the
over-crowded buses and the busy roads. It displays how gentle relations and ties
are formed amongst the hustle bustle of the city so well-known to us. The film
also takes you in your earlier years while taking a glimpse of certain scenes
from Doordarshan’s Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi
and songs from Saajan.
Full
marks to debutant director Ritesh Batra for generating a world so current yet
so ancient. It’s a decent variation to see two people involving over love
letters than SMS’s and Whatsapp messaging. Ritesh also has a robust grip over
the storyline of the film. There are few sections in the film which are a bit stretched
but you are so captivated into the film’s expressiveness that you overlook
the lengthy parts. Ritesh is aided by a talented star cast who uplifts the film
to, all in all, a diverse level. Adjectives nose-dive when it comes to unfolding
Irrfan’s enactment. He hardly speaks in the film and just lets his body do the
talking. Nimrit Kaur is a discovery. She’s the lash of fresh air that’s so
required in our cinema today. She demonstrates all feelings; love, desire, grief
and delight with copious ease. Her efforts seem graceful.
All
things considered, TheLunchbox is one of the finest films Hindi film industry has created.
It lifts us a notch higher. Do yourself an act of kindness and catch this film.
And you are cautioned… you might be starving for some good home-cooked food and affection
when the end credits roll.
Followers
Proud owner
Twitter Updates 2.2: FeedWitter
Hey...it's me!
This blog is my long cherished dream. After a glorious career with a leading software company, I opted for a sabbatical to nurture my Twins and to ensure a childhood they will always cherish.
This is my private space...my dreams...my thoughts! This is my 'me' where I can express what my feelings are...what my dreams are! This is all about what I think and how I perceive the world around me.
You're welcome to give me a pat on a back or a kick through your comments as I believe that it will only enrich my experience!
I still fumble with ideas and thoughts...sometimes, I still find it difficult to express my feelings...I still fall short of words...but it's all worth for! As this is a journey I have decided to embark only to explore my horizons and I am glad that my dreams are my best companions!
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
Oxytocin, vasopressin, and human social behavior.
There is substantial evidence from animal research indicating a key role of the neuropeptides oxytocin (OT) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) in the regulation of complex social cognition and behavior. As social interaction permeates the whole of human society, and the fundamental ability to form attachment is indispensable for social relationships, studies are beginning to dissect the roles of OT and AVP in human social behavior. New experimental paradigms and technologies in human research allow a more nuanced investigation of the molecular basis of social behavior. In addition, a better understanding of the neurobiology and neurogenetics of human social cognition and behavior has important implications for the current development of novel clinical approaches for mental disorders that are associated with social deficits (e.g., autism spectrum disorder, social anxiety disorder, and borderline personality disorder). This review focuses on our recent knowledge of the behavioral, endocrine, genetic, and neural effects of OT and AVP in humans and provides a synthesis of recent advances made in the effort to implicate the oxytocinergic system in the treatment of psychopathological states.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Q:
How do I find the Excel column name that corresponds to a given integer?
How would you determine the column name (e.g. "AQ" or "BH") of the nth column in Excel?
Edit: A language-agnostic algorithm to determine this is the main goal here.
A:
I once wrote this function to perform that exact task:
public static string Column(int column)
{
column--;
if (column >= 0 && column < 26)
return ((char)('A' + column)).ToString();
else if (column > 25)
return Column(column / 26) + Column(column % 26 + 1);
else
throw new Exception("Invalid Column #" + (column + 1).ToString());
}
A:
Here is the cleanest correct solution I could come up with (in Java, but feel free to use your favorite language):
String getNthColumnName(int n) {
String name = "";
while (n > 0) {
n--;
name = (char)('A' + n%26) + name;
n /= 26;
}
return name;
}
But please do let me know of if you find a mistake in this code, thank you.
A:
A language agnostic algorithm would be as follows:
function getNthColumnName(int n) {
let curPower = 1
while curPower < n {
set curPower = curPower * 26
}
let result = ""
while n > 0 {
let temp = n / curPower
let result = result + char(temp)
set n = n - (curPower * temp)
set curPower = curPower / 26
}
return result
This algorithm also takes into account if Excel gets upgraded again to handle more than 16k columns. If you really wanted to go overboard, you could pass in an additional value and replace the instances of 26 with another number to accomodate alternate alphabets
|
{
"pile_set_name": "StackExchange"
}
|
Q:
Select the value of an attribute in jQuery
I have the following table:
<table summary='' id='table_csrdownloadcenter'>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>text1</th>
<th>text2</th>
<th>text3</th>
<th>text4</th>
<th>text5</th>
<th>text6</th>
<th>text7</th>
<th>text8</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr id='nom_du_pdf'>
<td class='dc-date'></td>
<td class='dc-dl'></td>
<td class='dc-title'></td>
<td class='dc-area'></td>
<td class='dc-category'></td>
<td class='dc-file'></td>
<td class='dc-ranking'></td>
<td class='dc-checkbox'><input type='checkbox' name='chk"+PathFile[i]+"' ></td>
</tr>
<tr id='nom_du_pdf2'>
<td class='dc-date'></td>
<td class='dc-dl'></td>
<td class='dc-title'></td>
<td class='dc-area'></td>
<td class='dc-category'></td>
<td class='dc-file'></td>
<td class='dc-ranking'></td>
<td class='dc-checkbox'><input type='checkbox' name='chk"+PathFile[i]+"' ></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
<table>
For each <tr> I would like to save in a string the value of the name attribute in the 8th <td>
I tried this :
function DownloadZip()
{
$('.DownloadZip').click(function(){
var res = "";
$('#table_csrdownloadcenter').find("tbody").find("tr").find(td:nth-child(8)).find("input").each(function(){
res = $(this).attr("name").text();
alert(res);
}
});
}
Can anyone help me to make this working?
A:
Iterate each tr, then check the 8th td's input
var mappedAttributes = $("#table_csrdownloadcenter tr").map(function() {
return $("td:eq(7) input", this).attr("name");
}).get();
This creates an array of each of the name attribute values.
To create a string:
var str = "";
$("#table_csrdownloadcenter tr").each(function() {
str += $("td:eq(7) input", this).attr("name");
})
|
{
"pile_set_name": "StackExchange"
}
|
INTRODUCTION {#s1}
============
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most commonly occurring cancers in Southeast Asia \[[@R1]\]. In China, it is also one of the top three causes of cancer death in areas where hepatitis B infections are prevalent. Moreover, the incidence of HCC is rising in Western countries \[[@R2]\]. The lungs, bone, and adrenal glands are common metastasis sites in HCC, whereas brain metastasis (BrM) is rare \[[@R2]\], with an incidence of 0.2% to 2.2% \[[@R3]--[@R9]\]. Because the prognosis of HCC patients with BrM is extremely poor \[[@R3], [@R5]--[@R7], [@R10]\], prognostic factors and treatment modalities are not well defined.
BrM from HCC is fast growing, highly vascularized, and commonly associated with hemorrhage \[[@R11]\], though several studies suggest hemorrhage is not a prognostic factor in HCC and does not affect survival duration \[[@R5], [@R6], [@R10], [@R12]\]. On the other hand, Han et al \[[@R7]\] reported that hemorrhage of BrM was associated with poor overall survival in HCC.
Recent therapeutic advances for HCC have contributed to improved survival rates \[[@R2]\]. As a result, the incidence of BrM is expected to increase as HCC patients survive longer \[[@R4]\]. We therefore conducted a retrospective cohort study to assess the prognosis of HCC patients with hemorrhage from BrM. We anticipate the results of this study may help clinicians make better treatment decisions for HCC patients.
RESULTS {#s2}
=======
A total of 39 HCC patients were diagnosed with BrM. Three of those were excluded because of incomplete data, so this study ultimately included 36 patents. All of these had patients died by the final follow-up. Table [1](#T1){ref-type="table"} summarizes patients' characteristics.
###### Characteristics of 36 HCC patients with BrM
Total (*n* = 36) No hemorrhage (*n* = 25) Hemorrhage (*n* = 11) *P*
-------------------------------------------- ------------------ -------------------------- ----------------------- -------
**HCC characteristics**
Age at BrM diagnosis (years, Mean±SD) 47.25±11.23 46.08±11.18 49.91±11.40 0.353
Interval from HCC to BrM (months, M(Q1,Q3) 5.5 (0, 19) 5.0 (0, 13) 9.0 (0, 20) 0.972
Sex 0.216
male 33 (91.67%) 24 (96.00%) 9 (81.82%)
female 3 (8.33%) 1 (4.00%) 2 (18.18%)
KPS 0.624
\<100 1 (2.78%) 1 (4.00%) 0 (0.00%)
\<90 5 (13.89%) 4 (16.00%) 1 (9.09%)
\<80 27 (75.00%) 19 (76.00%) 8 (72.73%)
\<70 3 (8.33%) 1 (4.00%) 2 (18.18%)
Hepatitis B 0.224
positive 26 (72.22%) 20 (80.00%) 6 (54.55%)
negative 10 (27.78%) 5 (20.00%) 5 (45.45%)
AFP 0.446
\>400 24 (66.67%) 18 (72.00%) 6 (54.55%)
≤400 12 (33.33%) 7 (28.00%) 5 (45.45%)
Child-Pugh\'s classification 1.000
A 18 (50.00%) 12 (48.00%) 6 (54.55%)
B 16 (44.44%) 11 (44.00%) 5 (45.45%)
C 2 (5.56%) 2 (8.00%) 0 (0.00%)
RPA class 0.463
I 1 (2.78%) 1 (4.00%) 0 (0.00%)
II 32 (88.89%) 23 (92.00%) 9 (81.82%)
III 3 (8.33%) 1 (4.00%) 2 (18.18%)
Primary tumor 0.678
uncontrolled 28 (77.78%) 20 (80.00%) 8 (72.73%)
controlled 8 (22.22%) 5 (20.00%) 3 (27.27%)
Extracranial metastasis 0.352
none 15 (41.67%) 9 (36.00%) 6 (54.55%)
single 17 (47.22%) 12 (48.00%) 5 (45.45%)
multiple 4 (11.11%) 4 (16.00%) 0 (0.00%)
HCC treatment 0.781
resection 12 (33.33%) 8 (32.00%) 4 (36.36%)
TACE 13 (36.11%) 10 (40.00%) 3 (27.28%)
RFA 3 (8.33%) 1 (4.00%) 2 (18.18%)
radiotherapy 1 (2.78%) 1 (4.00%) 0 (0.00%)
chemotherapy 1 (2.78%) 1 (4.00%) 0 (0.00%)
palliative 6 (16.67%) 4 (16.00%) 2 (18.18%)
**BrM characteristics**
Symptoms 0.394
headache 13 (36.11%) 10 (40.00%) 3 (27.27%)
mental status changes 2 (5.56%) 1 (4.00%) 1 (9.09%)
nausea 2 (5.56%) 2 (8.00%) 0 (0.00%)
aphasia 1 (2.78%) 1 (4.00%) 0 (0.00%)
visual disturbance 1 (2.78%) 0 (0.00%) 1 (9.09%)
cerebellar dysfunction 1 (2.78%) 0 (0.00%) 1 (9.09%)
none 16 (44.43%) 11 (44.00%) 5 (45.46%)
Signs 0.597
motor disturbance 11 (30.56%) 7 (28.00%) 4(36.36%)
none 25 (69.44%) 18 (72.00%) 7 (63.64%)
Location 0.280
parietal 14 (38.88%) 11 (44.00%) 3 (27.28%)
occipital 6 (16.67%) 2 (8.00%) 4 (36.36%)
temporal 2 (5.56%) 2 (8.00%) 0 (0.00%)
cerebellar 1 (2.78%) 1 (4.00%) 0 (0.00%)
frontal 4 (11.11%) 2 (8.00%) 2 (18.18%)
multiple locations 9 (25.00%) 7 (28.00%) 2 (18.18%)
Number 0.690
single 27 (75.00%) 18 (72.00%) 9 (81.82%)
multiple 9 (25.00%) 7 (28.00%) 2 (18.18%)
BrM treatment 0.395
resection + WBRT 3 (8.33%) 3 (12.00%) 0 (0.00%)
resection 3 (8.33%) 1 (4.00%) 2 (18.18%)
SRS 3 (8.33%) 3 (12.00%) 0 (0.00%)
WBRT 2 (5.56%) 2 (8.00%) 0 (0.00%)
chemotherapy 1 (2.78%) 1 (4.00%) 0 (0.00%)
palliative (Steroid alone) 24 (66.67%) 15 (60.00%) 9 (81.82%)
HCC: hepatocellular carcinoma, BrM: brain metastasis, SD: standard deviation, KPS: performance status, AFP: alpha fetoprotein, RPA: recursive partitioning analysis, TACE: transcatheter arterial chemoembolization, RFA: radiofrequency ablation, WBRT: whole brain radiotherapy, SRS: stereotaxic radiosurgery.
Figure [1](#F1){ref-type="fig"} shows the comparison of overall survival between the hemorrhage and no-hemorrhage groups. In a univariate analysis, the variables correlated with median survival after diagnosis of BrM were RPA, HCC treatment modality, hemorrhage, and BrM treatment modality (Table [2](#T2){ref-type="table"}). The results showed that there was a significant difference in median survival between the hemorrhage and no-hemorrhage groups (4 weeks vs 8 weeks, *p* = 0.001). To correct for possible confounding factors, we used multivariate logistic regression to assess the effect of hemorrhage. We found that hemorrhage of BrM was indeed a poor prognostic factor affecting median survival (hazard ratio \[HR\] = 5.812, 95% confidence interval \[CI\]: 1.399-24.142, *p* = 0.015).
###### Univariate and multivariate analyses for survival predictors in HCC patients with BM
Variables No Median survival (weeks) Univariate (P) Multivariate
------------------------------ ---- ------------------------- ---------------- -------------- --------------- -------
**HCC characteristics**
Age when BrM developed
≥47 years 18 7 0.414 1.042 0.970-1.121 0.261
\<47 years 18 5
Interval from HCC to BrM
\>5 months 18 5 0.778 1.006 0.983-1.030 0.620
≤5 months 18 5
Sex
male 33 6 0.266 0.727 0.076-6.991 0.782
female 3 4
KPS
≥80 6 8 0.302 0.883 0.127-6.129 0.900
\<80 30 5
Hepatitis B
positive 26 5 0.836 1.221 0.267-5.587 0.797
negative 10 5
AFP
\>400 24 5 0.953 1.113 0.221-5.612 0.896
≤400 12 5
Child-Pugh\'s classification
A 18 7 0.480 1.128 0.503-2.528 0.770
B 16 5
C 2 4
RPA class
III 3 1 0.000 38.422 2.347-629.090 0.011
II 32 6
I 1 14
Primary tumor
uncontrolled 28 5 0.843 0.686 0.109-4.300 0.687
controlled 8 5
Extracranial metastasis
none 15 7 0.561 2.012 0.793-5.107 0.141
single 17 6
multiple 4 4
HCC treatment
palliative 6 3 0.045 1.616 0.413-6.317 0.491
HCC treated 30 6 1
**BrM characteristics**
Symptoms
yes 20 5 0.812 0.503 0.126-2.013 0.332
no 16 6
Signs
yes 11 4 0.096 2.923 0.531-16.095 0.218
no 25 7
Number
single 27 7 0.689 0.662 0.248-1.761 0.408
multiple 9 5
Hemorrhage
yes 11 4 0.001 5.812 1.399-24.142 0.015
no 25 8 1
BrM treatment
palliative (Steroid alone) 24 4 0.000 28.601 6.329-129.255 0.000
BrM treated 12 11 1
HCC: hepatocellular carcinoma, BrM: brain metastasis, KPS: performance status, AFP: alpha fetoprotein, RPA: recursive partitioning analysis, HR: hazard ratio, CI: confidence interval.
HCC treated: HCC treated with resection, transcatheter arterial chemoembolization, radiofrequency ablation, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy.BM treated: BM treated with resection, whole brain radiotherapy, stereotaxic radiosurgery, or chemotherapy.
BM treated: BM treated with resection, whole brain radiotherapy, stereotaxic radiosurgery, or chemotherapy.
{#F1}
DISCUSSION {#s3}
==========
Our study suggests that HCC patients with BrM hemorrhage have a poorer prognosis than those without hemorrhage. This finding suggests clinicians should pay greater attention to BrM hemorrhage when making treatment decisions.
Previous studies reported that BrM from HCC is frequently associated with hemorrhage \[[@R5]--[@R7], [@R10], [@R12]\], with incidences of 41.94% to 74.74%. In the present study, the hemorrhage rate among HCC patients with BrM was 30.56%. At our hospital, brain imaging is not performed only in cases with neurologic symptoms/signs, but also part of the routine evaluation of HCC patients. Consequently, 12 patients in this study were diagnosed with BrM at the time of their HCC diagnosis, which may account for the lower rate of BrM hemorrhage in our study.
Whether BrM hemorrhage significantly affects survival in HCC patients is controversial. Univariate and multivariate analyses carried out in several studies have suggested that BrM hemorrhage is not a prognostic factor associated with difference in survival \[[@R5], [@R6], [@R10]\]. For example, Hsieh et al \[[@R12]\] reported that the occurrence of BrM hemorrhage did not influence overall survival of HCC patients as compared to patients who did not experience BrM hemorrhage. By contrast, Han et al \[[@R7]\] reported that BrM hemorrhage was predictive of poorer prognosis, as patients without hemorrhage survived longer than who experienced BrM hemorrhage (13.7 weeks vs 8.1 weeks, *p* = 0.044 in univariate analysis). Both our univariate and multivariate analyses also indicate BrM hemorrhage is a poor prognostic factor and that HCC patients with BrM hemorrhage have a significantly shorter median survival than those without hemorrhage. In our study, 81.82% patients with BrM hemorrhage received palliative care. This may explain the poorer survival compared to earlier studies \[[@R6], [@R7]\], as patients who received palliative care had a poorer prognosis than those who received therapeutic treatment. This would confound the result in the context of a treatment effect versus patient selection effect.
In this study, palliative care was associated with poorer survival than BrM treatment, including resection, whole brain radiotherapy, stereotaxic radiosurgery, or chemotherapy (4 weeks vs 11 weeks, *p* = 0.001). However, the best treatment modalities for BrM from HCC are not clear due to its rarity. The treatment may be similar to the general guidelines for metastatic brain tumors. For a single large lesion (\<3 cm), surgical resection or stereotaxic radiosurgery should be considered with/without whole brain radiotherapy. Surgery was also a good treatment option for hemorrhagic BrM, though increased intracranial pressure and severe neurologic deficits may have existed \[[@R13]\]. In our study, two patients with BrM hemorrhage received resection, and they showed considerably prolonged survival (7 and 11 weeks). However, hemorrhage can lead to severe neurological deficits and poor functional status. Moreover, poor liver function may lead to underlying coagulopathy. Surgery is restricted in most HCC patients with BrM hemorrhage, making radiotherapy the preferred treatment modality. Stereotactic body radiation therapy and stereotaxic radiosurgery are effective for controlling BrM, especially when there is intratumoral hemorrhage \[[@R5], [@R6]\]. In sum, decisions about treatment of BrM from HCC should be made cautiously, especially in patients with poor RPA class and/or KPS.
This study had the following limitations. (1) Only 36 patients were enrolled in our study, and the sample size of the hemorrhage group was small. (2) In retrospective cohort studies, exclusion of potential biases is difficult. Patients included in our study varied with regard to KPS, extracranial metastasis, HCC treatment, and BrM treatment. Consequently, confounding factors could be inherent in this study. Further large-scale studies are necessary to verify the results.
In conclusion, this study suggests that BrM hemorrhage is a poor prognostic factor for HCC patients.
MATERIALS AND METHODS {#s4}
=====================
This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Cancer Hospital of Guangxi Medical University. HCC patients treated between June 2000 and June 2016 at the Cancer Hospital of Guangxi Medical University were retrospectively reviewed. HCC was diagnosed based on pathology or radiological criteria \[[@R2]\]. BrM was diagnosed based on computerized tomography (CT) and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), with or without pathology.
Clinical data at the time BrM was diagnosed, including age, sex, time interval from HCC diagnosis to BrM, Karnofsky performance status (KPS), Child-Pugh classification, recursive partitioning analysis (RPA) class, level of alpha fetoprotein (AFP), and extracranial metastasis, were collected. Also evaluated were data on BrM, including presenting symptoms/signs, location, number, hemorrhage, treatment modality, and survival time. BrM hemorrhage was diagnosed based on the pathology at surgery and/or CT/MRI. Patients were divided into hemorrhage and no-hemorrhage groups. The endpoint of this study was overall survival. The follow-up period was terminated by death or the beginning of this study (March 2017).
Categorical variables were compared using the Chi-square test or Fisher\'s exact t-test. Continuous variables were expressed as the mean ± standard deviation and compared using Student\'s t-test. Prognostic factors were analyzed using log-rank test for univariate analysis; Cox regression analysis was used for multivariate analysis. Overall survival was calculated from the diagnosis of BrM of death or last day of follow using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared using the log-rank test.
Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS for Windows version 16.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL). All tests were two-sided, and values of P \<0.05 were considered statistically significant.
**Author contributions**
LY and PXB contributed to the conception of the study; HST and JYM contributed to manuscript preparation; LY and HST performed the data analyses; JYM helped perform the analysis with constructive discussions.
**CONFLICTS OF INTEREST**
The authors declare no conflict of interest.
HCC
: hepatocellular carcinoma
BrM
: brain metastasis
CT
: computerized tomography
MRI
: magnetic resonance imaging
KPS
: Karnofsky performance status
RPA
: recursive partitioning analysis
AFP
: alpha fetoprotein
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Central"
}
|
James Miller
Bio
James Miller is Vice President, Partner Relationships for Sharecare and is responsible for the development, integration and ongoing engagement of strategic content partners on the Sharecare platform.
James has spent his professional career in the healthcare and life sciences industries. He was a principal in Standing Stone Partners, a full service creative, communications and strategic consulting firm serving early and mid-stage healthcare, medical device and biotech companies. Prior to Standing Stone, James was Vice President and General Manager of a leading San Francisco Bay area video, animation and multimedia company specializing in creating high end patient and clinical professional programming.
Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria change in some way that reduces or eliminates the effectiveness of drugs, chemicals or other agents designed to cure or prevent infections. The bacteria survive and continue to multiply causing more harm.
Measles is back. After years of relatively few reported cases in the US – thanks mainly to widespread vaccinations -- the disease has been spreading in children and adults at an alarming rate, with 644 cases reported in 2014 and dozens more occurring in multiple states in early 2015. “The
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
In a Jan. 3 Accuracy in Media column, Cliff Kincaid follows WorldNetDaily in taking post-mortem shots at Nelson Mandela that have the effect of whitewashing apartheid:
Referring to Nelson Mandela, Rove says he “spent 26 years in prison before emerging to end apartheid and serve as the first president of a multiracial South African democracy.” However, Mandela’s debt to Soviet communism, which armed his movement, went unmentioned in Rove’s Wall Street Journal column. Rove also failed to note that the communists who run South Africa today counted Mandela as one of their own. The “democratic” South Africa of today is effectively a one-party state, and the white minority is under siege and facing genocide.
Rove writes that Mandela went “on trial for his life,” neglecting to mention that he was convicted of terrorism and could have been hanged for his crimes. Instead, Mandela received a prison sentence. The white government was actually quite lenient and offered to release him if he would renounce violence and terrorism. He never did. His terrorism cost innocent lives.
So apartheid wasn't so bad because Mandela wasn't immediately executed? Is that what Kincaid is saying?
As WND did, Kincaid ignores what Mandela actually said in response to offers to free him if he renounced violence: that his freedom was meaningless if apartheid was still legal. While Kincaid laments the "innocent lives" taken by Mandela's "terrorism," he's silent on on the innocent lives taken as a result of South Africa's apartheid regime.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
Geographical variations in fatal poisoning due to antidepressant drugs in England and Wales 1993-2003.
This article examines geographical variations in fatal poisoning due to antidepressant drugs in England and Wales between 1993 and 2003. The analysis looks at mortality rates for Government Office Regions and Wales and Strategic Health Authorities in England. Mortality rates were also considered in relation to antidepressant prescribing and deprivation. Throughout England and Wales, mortality rates due to antidepressant poisoning varied by area (Government Office Region and Strategic Health Authority), and were positively associated with area deprivation.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
As disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,038,039 and 5,168,162, which are incorporated herein by reference, infrared spectroscopy may be used to detect anomalies in samples of biological tissues and cells in natural and cultured form. A beam of infrared light is directed at the sample, and any anomalies in the sample are detected by analyzing the changes in the infrared absorption within one or more frequency ranges. The change in absorption may evidence itself as a change in absorption intensity at one or more particular frequency absorption peaks, a change in frequency at which one or more absorption peaks occur, the appearance of one or more new absorption peaks at new frequencies, or a combination of two or three of these phenomena. The infrared spectroscopy may be performed at atmospheric pressure or at an elevated pressure. The sample may comprise cells, secretions, exudates, transudates, bacteria, scrapings, brushings or other kinds of exfoliated cells from various organs, tissues or growths including tissue slices, mashed cells, or cells dispersed or suspended in water or other liquids. By using these infrared spectroscopy methods, anomalies such as malignancies and certain diseases, such as diabetes, cirrhosis and arthritis, can be reliably detected at an early stage in their development by persons with little or no medical training. In fact, because the disclosed methods provide numerical results in the form of intensity as a function of frequency, no significant subjective interpretation is required. Consequently, the analysis of samples may be entirely automated and/or computerized, thereby primarily requiring human involvement only in the initial obtaining and preparation of samples for infrared spectral analysis.
Infrared analysis of biological samples is also disclosed in the articles authored by Benedetti et al. in Leukemia Research, Vol. 8, No. 3, pp. 483-489 (1984) and in Leukemia Research, Vol. 9, No. 8, pp. 1001-1008 (1985).
In order to conduct such infrared spectroscopy of such samples, it is typically necessary to mount the sample in some kind of sample holder which has an optical window substantially transparent to the infrared light to be used, which ensures that the infrared light is not completely absorbed by the sample, and which substantially eliminates infrared interference fringes created by the sample which might obscure the sample's infrared absorption spectrum.
An sample holder that may be used at atmospheric pressure in conjunction with the infrared spectroscopy methods described above is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,980,551, which is incorporated herein by reference. The disclosed sample holder comprises a frame having a passage extending therethrough, and a pair of juxtaposed infrared transparent optical windows disposed within the passage. At least one of the optical windows has a recess formed in the surface abutting the other optical window into which a sample is placed. The sample holder also includes a mask that restricts the infrared light to the recess formed in the optical windows and a means to urge the two optical windows into contact with one another, thereby also clamping the sample within the recess(es). The shape of the recess(es) in the optical window(s) provides paths of propagation of adjacent infrared light rays that are different in length, thereby substantially eliminating interference fringes in the infrared spectra of the sample and clarifying the infrared absorption spectra of the sample being analyzed. The sample holder is useful for examining organ tissue or other deformable semi-solid material, such as, for example, gels, amorphous polymers and highly viscous liquid. Although this sample holder is reliable, functional and useful for many applications, it has certain disadvantages. In particular, after a sample is placed in the recess between the two optical windows, the sample holder must be assembled by mounting and securing the two optical windows into the frame. This assembly process is time consuming and difficult, thereby detracting from the benefits of the infrared spectroscopic analytical method. Additionally, the size of the optical windows in the sample holder is larger than absolutely necessary. Because the infrared absorption spectra is obtained based upon the light that travels through the sample and the optical windows in line therewith, i.e., the portions of the optical windows above and below the recess(es) in the optical window(s), the remaining portions of the optical windows are not needed, as evidenced by the fact that those excess portions of the optical windows are masked. The optical windows are typically the most expensive elements of the sample holder because the material comprising the optical windows is typically expensive and because the optical windows are typically difficult and therefore expensive to fabricate. As a consequence, the inclusion of this excess portion of optical window increases the cost of the sample holder making it unsuitable as a single use, disposable sample holder. The excess portions of the optical windows also make the sample holder less suitable for use in applications where a pressure is to be applied to the sample since a pressure might fracture the optical windows. Additionally, the sample holder typically must be cleaned for reuse, thereby creating a contamination risk, both to the technical personnel involved in the cleaning procedures and to the work environment, and also generating an expensive and logistically difficult problem associated with the safe disposal of the contaminated cleaning agents used in the cleaning procedures.
A sample holder that may be used at high-pressures in conjunction with the above described infrared spectroscopy methods is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,970,396, which is incorporated herein by reference. This sample holder comprises a frame or gasket made of a high compressive strength material having a passage passing therethrough, and an infrared transparent optical window disposed in the passage. The optical window is sized and shaped so as to form a recess between the upper surface of the optical window and the upper surface of the frame or gasket. A sample can be placed into this recess. As was the case with the above described atmospheric pressure sample holder, the shape of the recess in this sample holder provides paths of propagation of adjacent infrared rays that are different in length to substantially eliminate infrared interference fringes to clarify the infrared absorption spectra. Pressure is applied to the bottom surface of the window and to the sample by anvils which are preferably comprised of diamond crystals. The sample is sealed into the recess of the sample holder when the diamond anvils are pressed into contact with the frame or gasket. This high pressure sample holder is useful for examining liquids, solids, aqueous systems and aqueous biological systems and lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, hydrocarbons and animal or vegetable tissue (alive or dead) and bacteria. Although this sample holder is also reliable, functional and useful for many applications, it also has certain disadvantages. In particular, the anvils are extremely expensive, because the diamonds of which they are comprised are inherently expensive. Fabrication and assembly costs of the sample holder are high because the anvils must be cut and precisely oriented in the sample holder so that the anvil surfaces adjacent to the optical window are parallel to one another within a tolerance of one interference fringe for the particular frequency of light being used in the interferometer. Additionally, because the optical path of the diamond anvils is relatively small (less than about 0.5 mm.), in order to obtain reasonably acceptable infrared spectra, it is highly desirable to use a light beam condenser and a highly sensitive infrared detector. As a consequence of using these supplementary elements, proper optical alignment among the elements and the sample is difficult to obtain. The disclosed sample holder also cannot be used to obtain infrared spectra at atmospheric pressure. Finally, because of the relatively high cost associated with manufacturing this particular sample holder, it is not suitable as a single use, disposable sample holder, but must be cleaned for reuse thereby creating the contamination and disposal problems discussed above.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "USPTO Backgrounds"
}
|
Reusable oxygen and acetylene tanks (hereinafter referred to a "gas supply tanks") are employed in great numbers on construction sites. These tanks provide the fuel for welding and cutting operations periodically necessary for the construction projects. Unfortunately, during the course of such construction projects, many of such tanks mysteriously disappear. To the contractor, the loss of these reusable tanks can represent a substantial financial loss.
There is no simple way to mark the tanks since they are reusable and are exchanged when empty for full tanks.
Also, there is no easy way to distinguish an empty tank from a full tank in appearance and it is necessary to weigh the tanks to determine the amount of remaining gas left therein. This factor makes it difficult to determine if persons removing tanks are removing full or empty tanks from a construction site, unless some means are provided to weigh the tanks.
Normally, these tanks include a removable threaded cap which is screwed on to the top of the tanks, over the valve stem, to protect the valve stem assembly. However, these caps can be removed at will and often are by vandals who subsequently open the valves and vent the contents of the tanks to the atmosphere. With oxygen and acetylene tanks in close proximity, such acts of vandalism can also create a safety hazard.
Many of the above problems can be overcome with the lock cap unit of the instant invention which provides a cap which can be locked over the valve stem assembly that cannot be removed without a key to its locking unit. Further, a contractor can identify its tanks with the lock cap units installed thereon by painting them with special colors or relying on their serial numbers, since these cap units cannot be removed except when the contractor desires to remove a unit with a key. Further, the installation of the lock cap unit makes it difficult for thieves to market gas supply tanks which contain the lock cap unit because it is difficult, if not impossible, to safely remove it from the tank without the key.
Of course, other advantages besides those noted above, such as protection against vandalism, are provided by the novel lock cap unit.
Further, the lock cap unit is not restricted to oxygen and acetyline supply tanks being suitable for LP gas tanks, nitrogen, etc., which have a threaded neck.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "USPTO Backgrounds"
}
|
RasterizerOrderedByteAddressBuffer _7 : register(u1, space0);
RWByteAddressBuffer _9 : register(u0, space0);
static float4 gl_FragCoord;
struct SPIRV_Cross_Input
{
float4 gl_FragCoord : SV_Position;
};
void callee2()
{
int _31 = int(gl_FragCoord.x);
_7.Store(_31 * 4 + 0, _7.Load(_31 * 4 + 0) + 1u);
}
void callee()
{
int _39 = int(gl_FragCoord.x);
_9.Store(_39 * 4 + 0, _9.Load(_39 * 4 + 0) + 1u);
callee2();
}
void frag_main()
{
callee();
}
void main(SPIRV_Cross_Input stage_input)
{
gl_FragCoord = stage_input.gl_FragCoord;
gl_FragCoord.w = 1.0 / gl_FragCoord.w;
frag_main();
}
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Github"
}
|
The architecture of A. Palladio, in four books : containing, a short treatise of the five orders, and the most necessary observations concerning all sorts of building : as also the different construction of private and publick houses, high-ways, bridges, market-places, xystes, and temples, with their plans, sections, and uprights : to which are added several notes and observations made by Inigo Jones, never printed before
Flag this item for
texts
The architecture of A. Palladio, in four books : containing, a short treatise of the five orders, and the most necessary observations concerning all sorts of building : as also the different construction of private and publick houses, high-ways, bridges, market-places, xystes, and temples, with their plans, sections, and uprights : to which are added several notes and observations made by Inigo Jones, never printed before
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
Canada is celebrating its 150th birthday this year and to commemorate the occasion, Universal Music Canada is releasing a new compilation of Canadian music titled Canada 150: A Celebration of Music. The 6-CD set comes packaged in a 60-page, 10x14" hardcover book and includes 2 Rush tracks - Tom Sawyer and Lakeside Park. There's also a single CD Canada 150: Icon edition that includes 11 of the most globally recognizable Canadian hits, one of which is Tom Sawyer. The compilation will release on the eve of Canada's 150th birthday this coming June 30th in Canada, and it will also be available via import in the US on July 7th. On a related note, Sirius XM Canada is celebrating Canada's 150th birthday by compiling a list of the 150 Greatest Canadian Songs of All Time. You can cast your vote by going to 150.siriusxm.ca and voting for your three favorite Canadian songs - all of which should obviously be Rush songs! :) Sirius XM Canada will then reveal the top 150 songs on Canada Day this coming July 1st. Thanks to RushFanForever for the heads up.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
Q:
What is the differrence between `* text=auto` and `* text eol=lf` in .gitattributes?
I am looking again and again at the documentation of .gitattributes but I cannot find a clear answer on what is the differrence between these two:
* text=auto
* text eol=lf
Also is text=auto intended only for use with * or it can also be used with specific extensions? In such a case what is the differrence?
*.txt text=auto
*.txt text eol=lf
A:
TL;DR
The eol=lf setting overrides any text setting, and since you have chosen to apply this to every path, only the eol=lf setting will matter, if you use that.
Full explanation
Let's start with this and work outwards:
Also is text=auto intended only for use with * or it can also be used with specific extensions?
Patterns may include extensions. The text=auto part is an attribute setting, and the patterns select which attributes to apply to which file(s).
How Git reads a .gitattributes file
Each line in .gitattributes matches, or does not match, some path name such as dir1/dir2/file.ext or README.md or whatever. As the gitattributes documentation says:
Each line in gitattributes file is of form:
pattern attr1 attr2 ...
That is, a pattern followed by an attributes list, separated by whitespaces. Leading and trailing whitespaces are ignored. Lines that begin with # are ignored. Patterns that begin with a double quote are quoted in C style. When the pattern matches the path in question, the attributes listed on the line are given to the path.
Hence, * is the pattern. These "patterns" are the same as those in .gitignore files except that negative patterns are disallowed. Thus, you can use patterns like *.txt and *.jpg to match file name extensions, or patterns like dir1/* to match files within a specific directory (although there is another way to do this: like .gitignore files, you can have .gitattributes files per directory, in which case they apply to files in that dierctory and its subdirectories, but not to paths higher in the tree).
Now, for text vs text=auto, and for eol=lf or not, we find the following:
Each attribute can be in one of these states for a given path:
Set
The path has the attribute with special value "true"; this is
specified by listing only the name of the attribute in the
attribute list.
Unset [details snipped, but see below]
Set to a value
The path has the attribute with specified string value; this is
specified by listing the name of the attribute followed by an equal
sign = and its value in the attribute list.
Unspecified
No pattern matches the path, and nothing says if the path has or
does not have the attribute, the attribute for the path is said to
be Unspecified.
(This last one's wording is particularly poor, in my opinion. It really means "of all patterns matching the path, none said anything about this attribute.")
So for text, the attribute is set, and for text=auto, the attribute is set to a value. The value part in this case is auto. Since the pattern is *, it applies to all files.
This same logic applies to the eol=lf item. If, first, this eol=lf occurs in some pattern, and second, that pattern matches the file in question, then the eol attribute is set to a value, and the value is lf. Since your suggested line was * text eol=lf, this would make eol set to a value, and would make text set, but not set to a value.
If you write, in a single .gitattributes file, the two line sequence:
* text=auto
* text eol=lf
the second line's text overrides the first one's, so that text is set (but not to a value) and eol is set to a value, with the value being lf. Both lines matched, and the second line overrode the first.
If you reverse the two lines:
* text eol=lf
* text=auto
then again both lines match but now the second line only overrides the text setting, so now you have text set to auto and eol set to lf.
How the text attribute applies to files
The very next section of the gitattributes documentation says:
This attribute [text] enables and controls end-of-line normalization. ... [If it is]
Set ... enables end-of-line normalization and marks the path as a text file ...
Unset ... tells Git not to attempt any end-of-line conversion upon checkin or checkout ...
Set to string value "auto" ... If Git decides that the content is text ...
Unspecified ... Git uses the core.autocrlf configuration variable ...
(which means you have to go chase down the git config documentation to find out what core.autocrlf does, if you leave text unspecified).
You have chosen to either set it for every file, or set it to auto for every file. The former means "do conversion for every file" and the latter—the auto setting—means: Hey, Git, please decide for me whether the file is text or not. If you decide that it is text, do the conversion.
How eol=lf applies to files
Just below the description for the text setting is this description for the eol setting:
This attribute sets a specific line-ending style to be used in the
working directory. It enables end-of-line conversion without any
content checks, effectively setting the text attribute.
Set to string value "crlf" ... [snipped because you set lf]
Set to string value "lf"
This setting forces Git to normalize line endings to LF on
checkin and prevents conversion to CRLF when the file is
checked out.
So, if you have eol=lf set for a path—and with * as the pattern, it will be set for every path—Git will treat every file as text, and do conversion from CR-LF line endings to LF-only line endings on "checkin" (this is badly phrased, again: the conversion actually occurs during the git add step). Git will do nothing during checkout (this too is not perfectly phrased: the conversion—or in this case, non-conversion—happens during extraction from index to work-tree).
If you use different patterns you get different results
Note that if you choose a pattern like *.txt, then these attributes are set only for paths that match the pattern. For other paths, these attributes remain unset. You should therefore look back at the documentation and see what happens when these attributes are unset.
You can, of course, do this:
* -text
*.txt eol=lf
The first line will explicitly unset text on all files, leaving eol unspecified on all files. The second line then sets to a value eol=lf for *.txt files, overriding the unspecified value. Now Git will apply the eol=lf rules to all files whose name matches *.txt, and use the unspecified-eol and unset-text rules for all remaining files.
This special -text syntax is the stuff I snipped above. Using text=false does not unset text: it leaves text set to the string value false. This has the same effect as leaving text unspecified (not specifically unset). Using -text gives it the special unset setting.
The difference between an unset text and an unspecified text is that when text is unspecified, Git could attempt to guess—based on the core.* settings like core.autocrlf—whether to do conversions. When text is specifically unset, Git will not do any guessing: it will just not do any conversion at all, for that file.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "StackExchange"
}
|
Source: vtk
Version: 9.0.1
Port-Version: 2
Description: Software system for 3D computer graphics, image processing, and visualization
Homepage: https://github.com/Kitware/VTK
Build-Depends: zlib, libpng, tiff, libxml2, jsoncpp, glew, freetype, expat, hdf5[core], libjpeg-turbo, proj4, lz4, liblzma, libtheora, eigen3, double-conversion, pugixml, libharu[notiffsymbols], sqlite3, netcdf-c, utfcpp, libogg, pegtl-2
Feature: vtkm
Description: Build with vtk-m accelerator and module.
Build-Depends: vtk-m[core]
Feature: openvr
Description: OpenVR functionality for VTK
Build-Depends: sdl2, openvr
Feature: qt
Description: Qt functionality for VTK
Build-Depends: qt5-xmlpatterns, qt5-tools, qt5-imageformats, qt5-x11extras (linux)
Feature: mpi
Description: MPI functionality for VTK
Build-Depends: mpi, hdf5[core, parallel], vtk-m[core,mpi]
Feature: python
Description: Python functionality for VTK
Build-Depends: python3
Feature: atlmfc
Description: Mfc functionality for vtk on Windows
Build-Depends: atlmfc (windows)
Feature: paraview
Description: Build vtk modules required by paraview
Build-Depends: vtk[core, qt], vtk[core, atlmfc] (windows)
Feature: cuda
Description: Support CUDA compilation
Build-Depends: cuda
Feature: opengl
Description: All opengl related modules
Build-Depends: vtk[core]
Feature: all
Description: Build all vtk modules
Build-Depends: libmysql, ffmpeg, gdal, vtk[core, qt, python, mpi], vtk[core, atlmfc] (windows)
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Github"
}
|
not sure if my meme idea is original or im just remembering a meme from months ago
255 shares
|
{
"pile_set_name": "OpenWebText2"
}
|
From Crass Comedy to Christ Talk
The Christian comedienne Sherri Shepherd says that without God in her life, she'd be in jail, on drugs, or dead.
Sherri Shepherd is expected to be named a co-host on the popular daytime talk show "The View." The following interview with the actress was first published on Beliefnet in June 2006.
Sherri Shepherd stars weekly on the ABC sitcom "Less Than Perfect," appeared in the movie "Beauty Shop," and is frequently a guest on shows like "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" and "Jimmy Kimmel Live." On camera, she’s an optimistic presence with comic timing honed by 16 years of stand-up comedy. Behind the scenes, she’s as likely to say, “Thank you, Jesus,” as deliver a punch line. Raised in Chicago, Shepherd was a legal secretary before she got into show business. She spoke with Beliefnet about her experience as a Jehovah’s Witness, the sometimes-controversial nature of her faith in Hollywood, and where she thinks she would be without God.
How would you describe your faith?
I believe in Jesus Christ as my Lord and savior. I believe that Jesus died for my sins, and rose again, and that’s my belief. I still don’t know what “Christian” means. I’m a follower of Christ, but I keep making a whole bunch of mistakes. And I thank God for forgiveness. I don’t know what Christian means. I keep falling down. I get back up. I’m trying to stay in the race.
Were you raised in church? When I was little I went to a Baptist Church with my grandmother. My earliest memories were of her falling out in the middle of the floor and they had to cover her with a white sheet. Every time we went to church it was scary. The music would start playing, and then everybody would start running and shouting and hollering and screaming. My grandmother would get up and just fall out on the pews. When you’re 5-years-old and she’s the woman that brought you to church that’s a little scary.
After that, I was a Jehovah’s Witness. Being a Jehovah’s Witness, it was really a trip. We had to go from door to door, and we weren’t allowed to associate with the other children. It was a lot of rules.
How did you become a Jehovah’s Witness?
My mother. They came to the door one Saturday. My mother opened up the door, and I remember these really nice people came in. They were dressed very nicely and conservatively, and they came in, and they started talking to my mom. We really weren’t going to church, and we started going to the Kingdom Hall.
My father started questioning the teachings of the Jehovah’s Witnesses, and the elders, which are the heads of the congregation, they came to the house and they tried to talk to him. They finally dis-fellowshipped him, like excommunicated him. And they came to the house, and they told us that we had to go to his second job and tell him that we couldn’t talk to him anymore. When Jehovah’s Witnesses get dis-fellowshipped, you’re to cut off all communication with them.
My father was and is a great father. My father always wanted to do stand-up. He wanted to be an actor. But instead he did two jobs. He did customer service at a hospital and he worked as a waiter at night. He pretty much sacrificed everything for his daughters. I’ve got that in my mind, I’ve got to tell my dad I’m not going to talk to him? That’s not love. That’s when I got disillusioned with being a Jehovah’s Witness.
Did you get disillusioned with religion in general?
I didn’t get disillusioned with God, but because I had been a Jehovah’s Witness so long, that was all I knew. And as a Jehovah’s Witness I learned that all the other religions were false and that they were from Satan. I was taught my grandmother’s church was from the devil, so when I left the Jehovah’s Witnesses I really thought I was going to die and that I was going to go to hell.
I felt like, well, I’m not a Jehovah’s Witness and that’s the true religion. I can’t go to church because those are from the devil. I felt like one of the walking dead. I was never mad at God. I just felt like God was mad at me.
What brought you to where you are now?
My mom was dying. I was getting evicted left and right. This was in 1993. I got involved in a really abusive relationship. I just was involved with the wrong people. I got into stand-up comedy. My boyfriend went to prison--he was stalking me, and then he went to prison. I got involved in stand-up comedy. I was getting evicted. My car was getting repossessed. I went to jail.
Jail?
I was in a jail for six or eight days, for traffic warrants. I felt like I was going to die. All this stuff was happening to me because I didn’t have God. I wasn’t going to church. I just felt like it was so evil from my upbringing. Why am I going to go to a church that was from the devil.
When I say I was walking dead, I had nobody. I knew how important it was to have God in your life. I felt like: "God, I love making people laugh, and this feels so natural. And I feel so at peace no matter what’s going on in my life when I’m on stage. But I can’t go back to being a Jehovah’s Witness. I’m going to die, so if I’m going to die, I’m going to write all kinds of bounced checks. I’m going to sleep with a lot of people. I’m going to not pay my bills. I’m going to die anyway!" There’s one scripture, “Let’s eat, drink, and be merry, because we’re all going to die.” That’s really how I felt. Let’s do everything! I went to jail because my registration was two years expired. Police would stop me and give me a ticket to appear in court. I had like eight of those. My bench warrants totaled $9,000.
You’ve come a long way since then. Do you believe God has played a role in your success?
If I didn’t have God I would have been dead. First of all, if I got into this entertainment industry without God. I would probably be on drugs. He put that desire in my heart when I was 4 years old. I loved to entertain my family. There was always that desire. I think he’s nurtured it. He’s opened doors. Why am I as successful as I am? I have no idea. I have no idea what I’m doing. Sometimes I look at God and go, “I think there’s somebody better to talk to these celebrities.” I really don’t know what I’m doing.
You’re open about your faith, but how does that look on a daily basis? Also, are Christians persecuted in Hollywood?
It’s hard sometimes. I let people know I’m a Christian. It comes up naturally when I do things. If they say you did a great job, I go: “Thank you, Jesus.” I do not mind saying: “Thank you, Jesus,” because I’m not that good. When people hear that, they go: “She’s thanking Jesus a lot!”
[When I autograph] my scripts, I’ll write “God bless you.” Before we go on to tape a show, I just ask people if we can say a little prayer. I’m not trying to force it on you, but I like to pray so God can make everything smooth. I pray with the cast and that opens it up to: “What do you mean you pray?”
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
caged:
id: 1
name: caged
mly:
id: 2
name: mly
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Github"
}
|
The Greens (France)
The Greens (, ; VEC or LV) was a green-ecologist political party in France. The Greens had been in existence since 1984, but their spiritual roots could be traced as far back as René Dumont's candidacy for the presidency in 1974. On 13 November 2010, The Greens merged with Europe Ecology to become Europe Ecology – The Greens.
History
Early years
Since 1974, the environmentalist movement has been a permanent feature of the French political scene, contesting every election: municipal, national & European.
In the years following Dumont's challenge for the presidency, and prior to the formal confirmation of les Verts as political party, environmentalists contested elections under such banners as Ecology 78, Ecology Europe and Ecology Today. When, in 1982, the Ecologist Party merged with the Ecologist Confederation, les Verts were born. Under the ideological guidance of Antoine Waechter, the party in 1986 signalled a break with the traditional divide in French politics, declaring that environmental politics could not be "married" to either the left or the right (which gave rise to its famous slogan "ni droite, ni gauche" – "neither right, nor left"). Antoine Waechter ran in the 1988 presidential elections, capturing 1,150,000 ballots (or 3.8%) in the first round of voting. But the major breakthrough came the following year when – again under the leadership of Waechter – the Greens polled 10.6% in the European parliamentary elections.
However, the party faced with another ecologist party: Ecology Generation led by Brice Lalonde, environment minister of President François Mitterrand and allied with the Socialist Party (PS). In this, if the ecologist parties benefited from the electoral decline of the PS in the beginning of the 1990s, the Greens competed for the leadership of the French ecologist movement. In the 1992 regional elections, the Greens obtained 6.8% of votes and the presidency of Nord-Pas-de-Calais region. The next year, it scored 4.1% in the legislative election while all of the ecologist votes represented 11%. But, without political allies in the second round, they failed to gain a parliamentary seat.
Participation in government
Waechter's influence was called into question in 1994 when the Greens decided to break with his policy of non-alignment, instead deciding to adopt a markedly left-wing stance. The move prompted Waechter to leave the Greens. He went on to found the Independent Ecological Movement. In the following presidential election of 1995, Dominique Voynet polled a modest 3.8% but, in due to the marginalisation of Ecology Generation, the Greens captured the leadership into the family of the French political ecology.
Component of Plural Left coalition, the Greens obtained for the first time a parliamentary representation in 1997. Dominique Voynet was to lead the party into government for the first time, joining Lionel Jospin's Socialist Party (PS) and the Communist Party (PCF). Voynet was rewarded with the cabinet position of Minister for the Environment and Regional Planning, before being replaced by Yves Cochet in 2001.
Daniel Cohn-Bendit (or "Danny the Red"), a leader of the 1968 student uprising, spearheaded the party's 1999 European campaign, obtaining 9.7% of votes cast, enough to return seven deputies to Strasbourg.
Alain Lipietz was first selected to represent the Greens in the 2002 presidential elections but his public outings proved awkward and he was soon replaced by Noël Mamère who had initially lost the primary elections. Mamère's 5.25% represents the strongest Green challenge for the presidency to date. However, the legislative elections were a major disappointment: with just 4.51% of votes cast nationally, the Greens’ representation fell from six to just three deputies (out of a total of 577) in the National Assembly.
The Greens today
Following the return to opposition benches in 2002, Gilles Lemaire assumed the position of national secretary. His tenure is marked by a period of internal strife in the party. Lemaire was in turn replaced by Yann Wehrling, who seemingly united a majority of the membership under a text outlining the future direction that the party hoped to pursue. He was succeeded by Cécile Duflot in 2006, who was the party's youngest National Secretary at the age of 31. She announced her resignation in May 2012 after being appointed to the new cabinet appointed by President François Hollande.
Les Verts had six MEPs elected in the 2004 European Election with 8.43% of the vote.
In the hugely divisive 2005 referendum on the European Constitution, the Greens campaigned for a Yes vote.
In the 2007 French presidential election, les Verts nominated Dominique Voynet. Her low score of 1.57% in the first round was the party's worst electoral result, and the French ecologist's worst showing since René Dumont in the 1974. The party refused an electoral deal with the Socialists for the June legislative election. However, the three Green incumbents, Noël Mamère, Yves Cochet, and Martine Billard had no PS opposition in their respective constituencies. While the Green's vote share was down from 2002, it won a fourth seat in Nantes where François de Rugy defeated a conservative UMP incumbent. The Greens now had four seats in the Assembly and sat with the PCF in the Democratic and Republican Left group.
In the 2009 European Parliament election, the party was an integral part of the Europe Écologie coalition, led by Daniel Cohn-Bendit, which gained 8 seats for a total of 14 on a 16.3% of the vote. Since November 2010, it merged with the coalition to become Europe Ecology – The Greens.
The Skandrani Affair
One of the party's co-founders, Ginette Skandrani, had long attracted criticism due to her involvement with Holocaust deniers.
The Stephen Roth Institute criticized the Green Party in 2004, calling its record "tainted by abortive attempts to expel from within its ranks notorious anti-Jewish activist Ginette Skandrani herself ethnically Jewish who has close contacts with Holocaust deniers."
Other critics, such as Roger Cukierman of the Representative Council of French Jewish Institutions did not attack the party as a whole, but rather its anti-Zionist wing, claiming that it promoted a "brown-green alliance".
In June 2005, the Greens voted to permanently expel Skandrani. Among the reasons for her definitive expulsion were her participation in the holocaust-denial website AAARGH (Association des anciens amateurs de récits de guerres et d'holocaustes). Patrick Farbiaz, a Green leader involved in her expulsion, argued that "although she has not written [anti-Semitic texts] herself, she looks like a kingpen of holocaust deniers and avowed antisemites".
The party had previously expelled another co-founder (in 1991), Jean Brière, for signing a text addressing the alleged "war-causing role" of Israel and "the zionist lobby in the Gulf War.
Call to lift sanctions against Cypriot Turks
Green MEP Helene Flautre has attracted controversy by calling for the lifting of sanctions against Turkish Cypriots imposed by the United Nations.
Youth wing
The youth branch of the Greens, founded in Strasbourg in 2001, is called Les Jeunes Verts – la Souris verte (Young Greens – the Green mouse). It has been part of the Federation of Young European Greens since 2006.
Factions
Most internal divisions within the party concern the party's political position (neither right nor left, or left-wing) and electoral strategy (alliance with the PS, the centre or the alternative left).
Neo-Waechterians (environmentalists, social liberals, centrists): Followers of former Green leader Antoine Waechter, a large part has joined the Independent Ecological Movement or, more recently, the MoDem (Jean-Luc Bennahmias, Yann Wehrling)
Green left (eco-socialists, democratic socialists, Maoists): Including members such as Jean Desessard, Yves Contassot and, until recently, Martine Billard
The party's final leadership, led by Cécile Duflot, and including Dominique Voynet, Yves Cochet and Noël Mamère were positioned between the two aforementioned factions.
Elected officials
Deputies: Yves Cochet, Noël Mamère, François de Rugy (GDR Group). Martine Billard, elected as a Green in 2007 joined the Left Party in July 2009.
Senators: Marie-Christine Blandin, Alima Boumediene-Thiery, Jean Desessard, Jacques Muller, Dominique Voynet (Socialist Group).
MEPs: Malika Benarab-Attou, Pascal Canfin, Daniel Cohn-Bendit, Karima Delli, Hélène Flautre, Catherine Grèze, Nicole Kiil-Nielsen, Michèle Rivasi (6 of the 14 MEPs from Europe Écologie are not members of the party).
The Greens held 41 town halls, the largest city being Montreuil (Seine-Saint-Denis). Other cities held by the Greens include Wattwiller, Bègles and Mèze. The party also claims 168 regional councillors and 14 general councillors (plus 9 Parisian councillors).
Popular support and electoral record
The Greens were strong electorally in urban areas, specifically in the Greater Paris area, Brittany and western France, parts of the Rhône-Alpes region and Alsace. In the 2009 European elections, the Greens won their best result outside of Corsica, where their result was due to the support of the Party of the Corsican Nation (PNC), in the city of Paris (27.41%), Haute-Savoie (20.26%), Drôme (21.75%), Isère (21.64%), Hauts-de-Seine (20.74%), Ille-et-Vilaine (20.59%), and Loire-Atlantique (20.16%). It also did very well in large, wealthy urban centres such as Rennes or Grenoble. It does more poorly in rural areas, notably areas where its rival, CPNT, is strong. It also did poorly in industrial or poorer urban areas; for example it won only 9.33% in the Pas-de-Calais, a department formerly dominated by coal mining, in 2009.
Presidential
Legislative
European Parliament
See also
European Federation of Green Parties
List of environmental organizations
References
External links
Official site
Profile from the European Green Party
Category:Defunct green political parties
Category:Green political parties in France
Category:Left-wing parties in France
Category:Political parties established in 1982
Category:European Green Party
Category:Political parties of the French Fifth Republic
Category:1982 establishments in France
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Wikipedia (en)"
}
|
Improving the quality and safety of frozen muscle foods by emerging freezing technologies: A review.
Freezing is one of the most widespread used preservation methods for meats including fish meat. Traditional freezing methods such as air blast freezing and cryogenic freezing could induce some quality deterioration such as damage to cell structure, increased drip loss, and poor sensory value. Therefore, novel freezing methods have been developed to minimize the disadvantages of traditional freezing methods. This review describes the enhancement of quality attributes of muscle tissues frozen by novel freezing technologies, including high pressure freezing, electrically and magnetically assisted freezing, ultrasound assisted freezing and antifreeze protein. These quality attributes include microstructure, moisture loss, color, tenderness, protein denaturation, lipid and protein oxidation, and microbial counts. In this review, the principles of these emerging freezing technologies are introduced, and the impacts of these technologies on controlling the formation and growth of ice crystals and on complex changes of protein are also discussed. The current review shows that the novel freezing methods have positive effects on promoting the quality of frozen muscle. At a micro level, the majority of the novel methods have some certain ability on controlling the formation and growth of ice crystals, thus creating smaller, and more homogeneous and regular distribution of ice crystals, leading to better microstructure and enhanced quality attributes of frozen meats. Meanwhile, complex changes of protein take place under some of these novel freezing processes, and therefore the possible negative effect of the changes of protein should also be considered for commercial applications of these technologies in the frozen food industry.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Orexin a preferentially excites glucose-sensitive neurons in the lateral hypothalamus of the rat in vitro.
Falls in blood glucose induce hunger and initiate feeding. The lateral hypothalamic area (LHA) contains glucose-sensitive neurons (GSNs) and orexin neurons, both of which are stimulated by falling blood glucose and are implicated in hypoglycemia-induced feeding. We combined intracellular electrophysiological recording with fluorescein labeling of GSNs to determine their neuroanatomic and functional relationships with orexin neurons. Orexin A (1 micromol/l) caused a 500% increase (P < 0.01) in spontaneous firing rate and rapid and lasting depolarization that was tetrodotoxin-resistant and thus a direct postsynaptic effect. Orexin A altered the intrinsic neuronal properties of GSNs, consistent with increased excitability. Confocal microscopy showed that GSNs were intimately related to orexin neurons: orexin-immunoreactive axons were frequently entwined around GSN dendrites, establishing close and putatively synaptic contacts. Orexin-cell axons also passed in close proximity to glucose-responsive neurons, which are inhibited by low glucose, but orexin A caused smaller depolarization than on GSNs and only a 200% increase in spontaneous firing rate (P < 0.05 vs. GSN). We conclude that GSNs are specific target neurons for orexin A and suggest that they may mediate, at least in part, the acute appetite-stimulating effect of orexin A. Orexin neurons may regulate GSNs so as to control the onset and termination of hypoglycemia-induced feeding.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
// SPDX-License-Identifier: GPL-2.0-or-later
/*
* clk-xgene.c - AppliedMicro X-Gene Clock Interface
*
* Copyright (c) 2013, Applied Micro Circuits Corporation
* Author: Loc Ho <[email protected]>
*/
#include <linux/module.h>
#include <linux/spinlock.h>
#include <linux/io.h>
#include <linux/of.h>
#include <linux/clkdev.h>
#include <linux/clk-provider.h>
#include <linux/of_address.h>
/* Register SCU_PCPPLL bit fields */
#define N_DIV_RD(src) ((src) & 0x000001ff)
#define SC_N_DIV_RD(src) ((src) & 0x0000007f)
#define SC_OUTDIV2(src) (((src) & 0x00000100) >> 8)
/* Register SCU_SOCPLL bit fields */
#define CLKR_RD(src) (((src) & 0x07000000)>>24)
#define CLKOD_RD(src) (((src) & 0x00300000)>>20)
#define REGSPEC_RESET_F1_MASK 0x00010000
#define CLKF_RD(src) (((src) & 0x000001ff))
#define XGENE_CLK_DRIVER_VER "0.1"
static DEFINE_SPINLOCK(clk_lock);
static inline u32 xgene_clk_read(void __iomem *csr)
{
return readl_relaxed(csr);
}
static inline void xgene_clk_write(u32 data, void __iomem *csr)
{
writel_relaxed(data, csr);
}
/* PLL Clock */
enum xgene_pll_type {
PLL_TYPE_PCP = 0,
PLL_TYPE_SOC = 1,
};
struct xgene_clk_pll {
struct clk_hw hw;
void __iomem *reg;
spinlock_t *lock;
u32 pll_offset;
enum xgene_pll_type type;
int version;
};
#define to_xgene_clk_pll(_hw) container_of(_hw, struct xgene_clk_pll, hw)
static int xgene_clk_pll_is_enabled(struct clk_hw *hw)
{
struct xgene_clk_pll *pllclk = to_xgene_clk_pll(hw);
u32 data;
data = xgene_clk_read(pllclk->reg + pllclk->pll_offset);
pr_debug("%s pll %s\n", clk_hw_get_name(hw),
data & REGSPEC_RESET_F1_MASK ? "disabled" : "enabled");
return data & REGSPEC_RESET_F1_MASK ? 0 : 1;
}
static unsigned long xgene_clk_pll_recalc_rate(struct clk_hw *hw,
unsigned long parent_rate)
{
struct xgene_clk_pll *pllclk = to_xgene_clk_pll(hw);
unsigned long fref;
unsigned long fvco;
u32 pll;
u32 nref;
u32 nout;
u32 nfb;
pll = xgene_clk_read(pllclk->reg + pllclk->pll_offset);
if (pllclk->version <= 1) {
if (pllclk->type == PLL_TYPE_PCP) {
/*
* PLL VCO = Reference clock * NF
* PCP PLL = PLL_VCO / 2
*/
nout = 2;
fvco = parent_rate * (N_DIV_RD(pll) + 4);
} else {
/*
* Fref = Reference Clock / NREF;
* Fvco = Fref * NFB;
* Fout = Fvco / NOUT;
*/
nref = CLKR_RD(pll) + 1;
nout = CLKOD_RD(pll) + 1;
nfb = CLKF_RD(pll);
fref = parent_rate / nref;
fvco = fref * nfb;
}
} else {
/*
* fvco = Reference clock * FBDIVC
* PLL freq = fvco / NOUT
*/
nout = SC_OUTDIV2(pll) ? 2 : 3;
fvco = parent_rate * SC_N_DIV_RD(pll);
}
pr_debug("%s pll recalc rate %ld parent %ld version %d\n",
clk_hw_get_name(hw), fvco / nout, parent_rate,
pllclk->version);
return fvco / nout;
}
static const struct clk_ops xgene_clk_pll_ops = {
.is_enabled = xgene_clk_pll_is_enabled,
.recalc_rate = xgene_clk_pll_recalc_rate,
};
static struct clk *xgene_register_clk_pll(struct device *dev,
const char *name, const char *parent_name,
unsigned long flags, void __iomem *reg, u32 pll_offset,
u32 type, spinlock_t *lock, int version)
{
struct xgene_clk_pll *apmclk;
struct clk *clk;
struct clk_init_data init;
/* allocate the APM clock structure */
apmclk = kzalloc(sizeof(*apmclk), GFP_KERNEL);
if (!apmclk)
return ERR_PTR(-ENOMEM);
init.name = name;
init.ops = &xgene_clk_pll_ops;
init.flags = flags;
init.parent_names = parent_name ? &parent_name : NULL;
init.num_parents = parent_name ? 1 : 0;
apmclk->version = version;
apmclk->reg = reg;
apmclk->lock = lock;
apmclk->pll_offset = pll_offset;
apmclk->type = type;
apmclk->hw.init = &init;
/* Register the clock */
clk = clk_register(dev, &apmclk->hw);
if (IS_ERR(clk)) {
pr_err("%s: could not register clk %s\n", __func__, name);
kfree(apmclk);
return NULL;
}
return clk;
}
static int xgene_pllclk_version(struct device_node *np)
{
if (of_device_is_compatible(np, "apm,xgene-socpll-clock"))
return 1;
if (of_device_is_compatible(np, "apm,xgene-pcppll-clock"))
return 1;
return 2;
}
static void xgene_pllclk_init(struct device_node *np, enum xgene_pll_type pll_type)
{
const char *clk_name = np->full_name;
struct clk *clk;
void __iomem *reg;
int version = xgene_pllclk_version(np);
reg = of_iomap(np, 0);
if (!reg) {
pr_err("Unable to map CSR register for %pOF\n", np);
return;
}
of_property_read_string(np, "clock-output-names", &clk_name);
clk = xgene_register_clk_pll(NULL,
clk_name, of_clk_get_parent_name(np, 0),
0, reg, 0, pll_type, &clk_lock,
version);
if (!IS_ERR(clk)) {
of_clk_add_provider(np, of_clk_src_simple_get, clk);
clk_register_clkdev(clk, clk_name, NULL);
pr_debug("Add %s clock PLL\n", clk_name);
}
}
static void xgene_socpllclk_init(struct device_node *np)
{
xgene_pllclk_init(np, PLL_TYPE_SOC);
}
static void xgene_pcppllclk_init(struct device_node *np)
{
xgene_pllclk_init(np, PLL_TYPE_PCP);
}
/**
* struct xgene_clk_pmd - PMD clock
*
* @hw: handle between common and hardware-specific interfaces
* @reg: register containing the fractional scale multiplier (scaler)
* @shift: shift to the unit bit field
* @denom: 1/denominator unit
* @lock: register lock
* Flags:
* XGENE_CLK_PMD_SCALE_INVERTED - By default the scaler is the value read
* from the register plus one. For example,
* 0 for (0 + 1) / denom,
* 1 for (1 + 1) / denom and etc.
* If this flag is set, it is
* 0 for (denom - 0) / denom,
* 1 for (denom - 1) / denom and etc.
*
*/
struct xgene_clk_pmd {
struct clk_hw hw;
void __iomem *reg;
u8 shift;
u32 mask;
u64 denom;
u32 flags;
spinlock_t *lock;
};
#define to_xgene_clk_pmd(_hw) container_of(_hw, struct xgene_clk_pmd, hw)
#define XGENE_CLK_PMD_SCALE_INVERTED BIT(0)
#define XGENE_CLK_PMD_SHIFT 8
#define XGENE_CLK_PMD_WIDTH 3
static unsigned long xgene_clk_pmd_recalc_rate(struct clk_hw *hw,
unsigned long parent_rate)
{
struct xgene_clk_pmd *fd = to_xgene_clk_pmd(hw);
unsigned long flags = 0;
u64 ret, scale;
u32 val;
if (fd->lock)
spin_lock_irqsave(fd->lock, flags);
else
__acquire(fd->lock);
val = readl(fd->reg);
if (fd->lock)
spin_unlock_irqrestore(fd->lock, flags);
else
__release(fd->lock);
ret = (u64)parent_rate;
scale = (val & fd->mask) >> fd->shift;
if (fd->flags & XGENE_CLK_PMD_SCALE_INVERTED)
scale = fd->denom - scale;
else
scale++;
/* freq = parent_rate * scaler / denom */
do_div(ret, fd->denom);
ret *= scale;
if (ret == 0)
ret = (u64)parent_rate;
return ret;
}
static long xgene_clk_pmd_round_rate(struct clk_hw *hw, unsigned long rate,
unsigned long *parent_rate)
{
struct xgene_clk_pmd *fd = to_xgene_clk_pmd(hw);
u64 ret, scale;
if (!rate || rate >= *parent_rate)
return *parent_rate;
/* freq = parent_rate * scaler / denom */
ret = rate * fd->denom;
scale = DIV_ROUND_UP_ULL(ret, *parent_rate);
ret = (u64)*parent_rate * scale;
do_div(ret, fd->denom);
return ret;
}
static int xgene_clk_pmd_set_rate(struct clk_hw *hw, unsigned long rate,
unsigned long parent_rate)
{
struct xgene_clk_pmd *fd = to_xgene_clk_pmd(hw);
unsigned long flags = 0;
u64 scale, ret;
u32 val;
/*
* Compute the scaler:
*
* freq = parent_rate * scaler / denom, or
* scaler = freq * denom / parent_rate
*/
ret = rate * fd->denom;
scale = DIV_ROUND_UP_ULL(ret, (u64)parent_rate);
/* Check if inverted */
if (fd->flags & XGENE_CLK_PMD_SCALE_INVERTED)
scale = fd->denom - scale;
else
scale--;
if (fd->lock)
spin_lock_irqsave(fd->lock, flags);
else
__acquire(fd->lock);
val = readl(fd->reg);
val &= ~fd->mask;
val |= (scale << fd->shift);
writel(val, fd->reg);
if (fd->lock)
spin_unlock_irqrestore(fd->lock, flags);
else
__release(fd->lock);
return 0;
}
static const struct clk_ops xgene_clk_pmd_ops = {
.recalc_rate = xgene_clk_pmd_recalc_rate,
.round_rate = xgene_clk_pmd_round_rate,
.set_rate = xgene_clk_pmd_set_rate,
};
static struct clk *
xgene_register_clk_pmd(struct device *dev,
const char *name, const char *parent_name,
unsigned long flags, void __iomem *reg, u8 shift,
u8 width, u64 denom, u32 clk_flags, spinlock_t *lock)
{
struct xgene_clk_pmd *fd;
struct clk_init_data init;
struct clk *clk;
fd = kzalloc(sizeof(*fd), GFP_KERNEL);
if (!fd)
return ERR_PTR(-ENOMEM);
init.name = name;
init.ops = &xgene_clk_pmd_ops;
init.flags = flags;
init.parent_names = parent_name ? &parent_name : NULL;
init.num_parents = parent_name ? 1 : 0;
fd->reg = reg;
fd->shift = shift;
fd->mask = (BIT(width) - 1) << shift;
fd->denom = denom;
fd->flags = clk_flags;
fd->lock = lock;
fd->hw.init = &init;
clk = clk_register(dev, &fd->hw);
if (IS_ERR(clk)) {
pr_err("%s: could not register clk %s\n", __func__, name);
kfree(fd);
return NULL;
}
return clk;
}
static void xgene_pmdclk_init(struct device_node *np)
{
const char *clk_name = np->full_name;
void __iomem *csr_reg;
struct resource res;
struct clk *clk;
u64 denom;
u32 flags = 0;
int rc;
/* Check if the entry is disabled */
if (!of_device_is_available(np))
return;
/* Parse the DTS register for resource */
rc = of_address_to_resource(np, 0, &res);
if (rc != 0) {
pr_err("no DTS register for %pOF\n", np);
return;
}
csr_reg = of_iomap(np, 0);
if (!csr_reg) {
pr_err("Unable to map resource for %pOF\n", np);
return;
}
of_property_read_string(np, "clock-output-names", &clk_name);
denom = BIT(XGENE_CLK_PMD_WIDTH);
flags |= XGENE_CLK_PMD_SCALE_INVERTED;
clk = xgene_register_clk_pmd(NULL, clk_name,
of_clk_get_parent_name(np, 0), 0,
csr_reg, XGENE_CLK_PMD_SHIFT,
XGENE_CLK_PMD_WIDTH, denom,
flags, &clk_lock);
if (!IS_ERR(clk)) {
of_clk_add_provider(np, of_clk_src_simple_get, clk);
clk_register_clkdev(clk, clk_name, NULL);
pr_debug("Add %s clock\n", clk_name);
} else {
if (csr_reg)
iounmap(csr_reg);
}
}
/* IP Clock */
struct xgene_dev_parameters {
void __iomem *csr_reg; /* CSR for IP clock */
u32 reg_clk_offset; /* Offset to clock enable CSR */
u32 reg_clk_mask; /* Mask bit for clock enable */
u32 reg_csr_offset; /* Offset to CSR reset */
u32 reg_csr_mask; /* Mask bit for disable CSR reset */
void __iomem *divider_reg; /* CSR for divider */
u32 reg_divider_offset; /* Offset to divider register */
u32 reg_divider_shift; /* Bit shift to divider field */
u32 reg_divider_width; /* Width of the bit to divider field */
};
struct xgene_clk {
struct clk_hw hw;
spinlock_t *lock;
struct xgene_dev_parameters param;
};
#define to_xgene_clk(_hw) container_of(_hw, struct xgene_clk, hw)
static int xgene_clk_enable(struct clk_hw *hw)
{
struct xgene_clk *pclk = to_xgene_clk(hw);
unsigned long flags = 0;
u32 data;
if (pclk->lock)
spin_lock_irqsave(pclk->lock, flags);
if (pclk->param.csr_reg) {
pr_debug("%s clock enabled\n", clk_hw_get_name(hw));
/* First enable the clock */
data = xgene_clk_read(pclk->param.csr_reg +
pclk->param.reg_clk_offset);
data |= pclk->param.reg_clk_mask;
xgene_clk_write(data, pclk->param.csr_reg +
pclk->param.reg_clk_offset);
pr_debug("%s clk offset 0x%08X mask 0x%08X value 0x%08X\n",
clk_hw_get_name(hw),
pclk->param.reg_clk_offset, pclk->param.reg_clk_mask,
data);
/* Second enable the CSR */
data = xgene_clk_read(pclk->param.csr_reg +
pclk->param.reg_csr_offset);
data &= ~pclk->param.reg_csr_mask;
xgene_clk_write(data, pclk->param.csr_reg +
pclk->param.reg_csr_offset);
pr_debug("%s csr offset 0x%08X mask 0x%08X value 0x%08X\n",
clk_hw_get_name(hw),
pclk->param.reg_csr_offset, pclk->param.reg_csr_mask,
data);
}
if (pclk->lock)
spin_unlock_irqrestore(pclk->lock, flags);
return 0;
}
static void xgene_clk_disable(struct clk_hw *hw)
{
struct xgene_clk *pclk = to_xgene_clk(hw);
unsigned long flags = 0;
u32 data;
if (pclk->lock)
spin_lock_irqsave(pclk->lock, flags);
if (pclk->param.csr_reg) {
pr_debug("%s clock disabled\n", clk_hw_get_name(hw));
/* First put the CSR in reset */
data = xgene_clk_read(pclk->param.csr_reg +
pclk->param.reg_csr_offset);
data |= pclk->param.reg_csr_mask;
xgene_clk_write(data, pclk->param.csr_reg +
pclk->param.reg_csr_offset);
/* Second disable the clock */
data = xgene_clk_read(pclk->param.csr_reg +
pclk->param.reg_clk_offset);
data &= ~pclk->param.reg_clk_mask;
xgene_clk_write(data, pclk->param.csr_reg +
pclk->param.reg_clk_offset);
}
if (pclk->lock)
spin_unlock_irqrestore(pclk->lock, flags);
}
static int xgene_clk_is_enabled(struct clk_hw *hw)
{
struct xgene_clk *pclk = to_xgene_clk(hw);
u32 data = 0;
if (pclk->param.csr_reg) {
pr_debug("%s clock checking\n", clk_hw_get_name(hw));
data = xgene_clk_read(pclk->param.csr_reg +
pclk->param.reg_clk_offset);
pr_debug("%s clock is %s\n", clk_hw_get_name(hw),
data & pclk->param.reg_clk_mask ? "enabled" :
"disabled");
}
if (!pclk->param.csr_reg)
return 1;
return data & pclk->param.reg_clk_mask ? 1 : 0;
}
static unsigned long xgene_clk_recalc_rate(struct clk_hw *hw,
unsigned long parent_rate)
{
struct xgene_clk *pclk = to_xgene_clk(hw);
u32 data;
if (pclk->param.divider_reg) {
data = xgene_clk_read(pclk->param.divider_reg +
pclk->param.reg_divider_offset);
data >>= pclk->param.reg_divider_shift;
data &= (1 << pclk->param.reg_divider_width) - 1;
pr_debug("%s clock recalc rate %ld parent %ld\n",
clk_hw_get_name(hw),
parent_rate / data, parent_rate);
return parent_rate / data;
} else {
pr_debug("%s clock recalc rate %ld parent %ld\n",
clk_hw_get_name(hw), parent_rate, parent_rate);
return parent_rate;
}
}
static int xgene_clk_set_rate(struct clk_hw *hw, unsigned long rate,
unsigned long parent_rate)
{
struct xgene_clk *pclk = to_xgene_clk(hw);
unsigned long flags = 0;
u32 data;
u32 divider;
u32 divider_save;
if (pclk->lock)
spin_lock_irqsave(pclk->lock, flags);
if (pclk->param.divider_reg) {
/* Let's compute the divider */
if (rate > parent_rate)
rate = parent_rate;
divider_save = divider = parent_rate / rate; /* Rounded down */
divider &= (1 << pclk->param.reg_divider_width) - 1;
divider <<= pclk->param.reg_divider_shift;
/* Set new divider */
data = xgene_clk_read(pclk->param.divider_reg +
pclk->param.reg_divider_offset);
data &= ~(((1 << pclk->param.reg_divider_width) - 1)
<< pclk->param.reg_divider_shift);
data |= divider;
xgene_clk_write(data, pclk->param.divider_reg +
pclk->param.reg_divider_offset);
pr_debug("%s clock set rate %ld\n", clk_hw_get_name(hw),
parent_rate / divider_save);
} else {
divider_save = 1;
}
if (pclk->lock)
spin_unlock_irqrestore(pclk->lock, flags);
return parent_rate / divider_save;
}
static long xgene_clk_round_rate(struct clk_hw *hw, unsigned long rate,
unsigned long *prate)
{
struct xgene_clk *pclk = to_xgene_clk(hw);
unsigned long parent_rate = *prate;
u32 divider;
if (pclk->param.divider_reg) {
/* Let's compute the divider */
if (rate > parent_rate)
rate = parent_rate;
divider = parent_rate / rate; /* Rounded down */
} else {
divider = 1;
}
return parent_rate / divider;
}
static const struct clk_ops xgene_clk_ops = {
.enable = xgene_clk_enable,
.disable = xgene_clk_disable,
.is_enabled = xgene_clk_is_enabled,
.recalc_rate = xgene_clk_recalc_rate,
.set_rate = xgene_clk_set_rate,
.round_rate = xgene_clk_round_rate,
};
static struct clk *xgene_register_clk(struct device *dev,
const char *name, const char *parent_name,
struct xgene_dev_parameters *parameters, spinlock_t *lock)
{
struct xgene_clk *apmclk;
struct clk *clk;
struct clk_init_data init;
int rc;
/* allocate the APM clock structure */
apmclk = kzalloc(sizeof(*apmclk), GFP_KERNEL);
if (!apmclk)
return ERR_PTR(-ENOMEM);
init.name = name;
init.ops = &xgene_clk_ops;
init.flags = 0;
init.parent_names = parent_name ? &parent_name : NULL;
init.num_parents = parent_name ? 1 : 0;
apmclk->lock = lock;
apmclk->hw.init = &init;
apmclk->param = *parameters;
/* Register the clock */
clk = clk_register(dev, &apmclk->hw);
if (IS_ERR(clk)) {
pr_err("%s: could not register clk %s\n", __func__, name);
kfree(apmclk);
return clk;
}
/* Register the clock for lookup */
rc = clk_register_clkdev(clk, name, NULL);
if (rc != 0) {
pr_err("%s: could not register lookup clk %s\n",
__func__, name);
}
return clk;
}
static void __init xgene_devclk_init(struct device_node *np)
{
const char *clk_name = np->full_name;
struct clk *clk;
struct resource res;
int rc;
struct xgene_dev_parameters parameters;
int i;
/* Check if the entry is disabled */
if (!of_device_is_available(np))
return;
/* Parse the DTS register for resource */
parameters.csr_reg = NULL;
parameters.divider_reg = NULL;
for (i = 0; i < 2; i++) {
void __iomem *map_res;
rc = of_address_to_resource(np, i, &res);
if (rc != 0) {
if (i == 0) {
pr_err("no DTS register for %pOF\n", np);
return;
}
break;
}
map_res = of_iomap(np, i);
if (!map_res) {
pr_err("Unable to map resource %d for %pOF\n", i, np);
goto err;
}
if (strcmp(res.name, "div-reg") == 0)
parameters.divider_reg = map_res;
else /* if (strcmp(res->name, "csr-reg") == 0) */
parameters.csr_reg = map_res;
}
if (of_property_read_u32(np, "csr-offset", ¶meters.reg_csr_offset))
parameters.reg_csr_offset = 0;
if (of_property_read_u32(np, "csr-mask", ¶meters.reg_csr_mask))
parameters.reg_csr_mask = 0xF;
if (of_property_read_u32(np, "enable-offset",
¶meters.reg_clk_offset))
parameters.reg_clk_offset = 0x8;
if (of_property_read_u32(np, "enable-mask", ¶meters.reg_clk_mask))
parameters.reg_clk_mask = 0xF;
if (of_property_read_u32(np, "divider-offset",
¶meters.reg_divider_offset))
parameters.reg_divider_offset = 0;
if (of_property_read_u32(np, "divider-width",
¶meters.reg_divider_width))
parameters.reg_divider_width = 0;
if (of_property_read_u32(np, "divider-shift",
¶meters.reg_divider_shift))
parameters.reg_divider_shift = 0;
of_property_read_string(np, "clock-output-names", &clk_name);
clk = xgene_register_clk(NULL, clk_name,
of_clk_get_parent_name(np, 0), ¶meters, &clk_lock);
if (IS_ERR(clk))
goto err;
pr_debug("Add %s clock\n", clk_name);
rc = of_clk_add_provider(np, of_clk_src_simple_get, clk);
if (rc != 0)
pr_err("%s: could register provider clk %pOF\n", __func__, np);
return;
err:
if (parameters.csr_reg)
iounmap(parameters.csr_reg);
if (parameters.divider_reg)
iounmap(parameters.divider_reg);
}
CLK_OF_DECLARE(xgene_socpll_clock, "apm,xgene-socpll-clock", xgene_socpllclk_init);
CLK_OF_DECLARE(xgene_pcppll_clock, "apm,xgene-pcppll-clock", xgene_pcppllclk_init);
CLK_OF_DECLARE(xgene_pmd_clock, "apm,xgene-pmd-clock", xgene_pmdclk_init);
CLK_OF_DECLARE(xgene_socpll_v2_clock, "apm,xgene-socpll-v2-clock",
xgene_socpllclk_init);
CLK_OF_DECLARE(xgene_pcppll_v2_clock, "apm,xgene-pcppll-v2-clock",
xgene_pcppllclk_init);
CLK_OF_DECLARE(xgene_dev_clock, "apm,xgene-device-clock", xgene_devclk_init);
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Github"
}
|
1. The Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a washer which can be moved or rolled to progressively spray water over a surface such as a driveway.
2. The Prior Art
Surface washers proposed and used by the prior art have generally comprised a horizontal pipe fitted with a plurality of spaced nozzles. The pipe is supported by a caster at each end and supplied with water under elevated pressure through a handle attached thereto. The pipe can be rotated by the handle to direct the spray nearer or farther away and the device can be readily moved forward on its casters and readily moved in any direction on its casters but only when the caster shafts are in vertical position. Any rotation of the horizontal pipe to adjust the direction of the water spray throws the caster shafts off vertical and the device cannot then be moved sideways, for example. Or, if it is desired to move the washer sideways and backwards or in any direction other than that in which the trailing casters lead, then the nozzle pipe must be rotated until the caster shafts are vertical, then the washer may be moved in any direction because the caster wheels can trail properly, and, after a new location is achieved the pipe can be rotated to direct the spray from the nozzles as desired. This is, however, an inconvenient procedure. A surface washer could be moved over a surface in any direction while at the same time maintaining any angle of spray pipe rotation would be extremely advantageous. The washer could be moved as desired over the surface and the spray adjusted continuously to provide most effective cleaning.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "USPTO Backgrounds"
}
|
Q:
XML views Documentation Openui5
Where can i see the documentation on XML views?
I find the js API of the interface element but i want a documentation of the property and the content of the pages, lists, tables in XML view!
A:
You're either asking about docu for XML views themselves, in which case see the XML Views documentation from the SDK.
If you're asking about XML view style documentation for individual controls, there isn't anything specific, but the main thing you need to know is that the Properties, Associations, Aggregations and Events listings of the individual control documentation in the API section of the SDK, for example for the sap.m.Page control, are not particularly JavaScript specific. You might want to read this post "Mobile Dev Course W3U3 Rewrite - XML Views - An Intro" to give you the context that you need.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "StackExchange"
}
|
Soft vector quantization and the EM algorithm.
The relation between hard c-means (HCM), fuzzy c-means (FCM), fuzzy learning vector quantization (FLVQ), soft competition scheme (SCS) of [Yair et al. (1992)] and probabilistic Gaussian mixtures (GM) have been pointed out recently by [Bezdek and Pal (1995)]. We extend this relation to their training, showing that learning rules by these models to estimate the cluster centers can be seen as approximations to the expectation-maximization (EM) method as applied to Gaussian mixtures. HCM and unsupervised, LVQ use 1-of-c type competition. In FCM and FLVQ, membership is the -2/(m-1)th power of the distance. In SCS and GM, Gaussian function is used. If the Gaussian membership function is used, the weighted within-groups sum of squared errors used as the fuzzy objective function corresponds to the maximum likelihood estimate in Gaussian mixtures with equal priors and covariances. The fuzzy clustering method named fuzzy c-means alternating optimization procedure (FCM-AO) proposed to optimize the former is then equivalent to batch EM and SCS's update rule is a variant of the online version of EM. The advantages of the probabilistic framework are: (i) we no longer have spurious spread parameters that needs fine tuning as m in fuzzy vector quantization or beta in SCS; instead we have a variance term that has a sound interpretation and that can be estimated from the sample; (ii) EM guarantees that the likelihood does not decrease, thus it converges to the nearest local optimum; (iii) EM also allows us to estimate the underlying distance norm and the cluster priors which we could not with the other approaches. We compare Gaussian mixtures trained with EM with LVQ (HCM), SCS and FLVQ on the IRIS dataset and see that it is more accurate due to its being able to take into account the covariance information. We finally note that vector quantization is generally an intermediate step before finding a final output for which supervision may be possible. Thus, instead of an uncoupled approach where an unsupervised method is used first to find the cluster parameters followed by supervised training of the mapping based on the memberships, we advocate a coupled approach where the cluster parameters and mapping are trained supervised in a coupled way. The uncoupled approach ignores the error at the outputs which may not be ideal.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Are you tired of standing outside to water your lawn and garden every evening? Try one of our products!
We are a family owned and locally operated business with 30 years experience. Our company is fully committed to providing our customers with superior customer service. One of our associates will personally assist you with choosing the best product for your watering needs. Plus, we offer off-season discounts!
We also specialize in repair and service of most brands of sprinklers!
Our goal is always to provide quality installation and service at a fair price. We serve both residential and commercial customers. Trust an experienced local company. Schaefer Lawn Sprinklers, Inc. is perfect for all your lawn and garden watering needs.
Schaefer came out to repair my sprinklers. The guy quoted me the cost for repair/materials would be between $200 to $300. When he left he stated that the company would send me a bill in a few days. The bill came, it was $477.00. I am still waiting to hear from Schaefer on what they are going to do about this.
Although Schaefer does not do the type of work I was looking for - homeowners' open space, the person I talked to on the phone was very pleasant and helpful in giving the phone number of a company to help me out. Based on this experience, I will definitely call them for any residential needs.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
Effects of carbonic anhydrase inhibitor on the otolithic organs of developing chick embryos.
Carbonic anhydrase appears to be involved in the process of otoconial formation. The purpose of this investigation was to observe the morphologic change in the surface structure of the otolithic organ in developing chick embryos after injection of the carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, acetazolamide. Acetazolamide (1.5, 3, or 6 mg/0.06 mL/egg) was injected into the yolk sac of the embryo of the fifth day of incubation. Embryo specimens were collected on the 11th, 13th, and 18th days of incubation. The chicks were killed on the third day posthatching, and the surfaces of the otolithic organs were observed under a scanning electron microscope. A marked disturbance in otoconial formation was noted in both utricle and saccule, marked by a decrease or absence of otoconia. A widely exposed meshwork structure of otolithic membrane was observed, with sensory cilia penetrating the meshwork small holes in many instances. There were also several otoconial abnormalities, such as the appearance of only a single giant otoconium, or from several to dozens of giant otoconia, and rough, spongy-surfaced global substances entirely covering the maculae. Clearly, carbonic anhydrase inhibitor (acetazolamide) injected into the yolk sac of developing chick embryos alters and inhibits normal otoconial morphogenesis.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Q:
Powershell line of code does not run when called through function but will run directly. What could be possible causes?
I have a powershell script with the following code in it...
$appdir = Split-Path -Path $MyInvocation.MyCommand.Path
$xfrdir = $appdir + "\xfr\"
$cfgFile = "ofx_config.cfg"
$cfgPath = $appdir + "\" + $cfgFile
$configData = New-Object System.Collections.ArrayList
# --- some other code here...
function Load-Config ()
{
if (test-path ($cfgPath))
{
$configData = Import-Clixml -path "$cfgPath"
}
}
# ---some other code here
load-config
When I just RUN this script in the ps ISE, load-config runs because it is at the end of script (i verified this with a breakpoint) but the $configData variable remains empty.
But if I immediately copy and past the line $configData = Import-Clixml -path "$cfgPath" into the powershell command line and run it then $configData is loaded with data. Does anyone have any ideas what might be going on?
EDIT
I think that what you are saying is that $configData in $configData = Import-Clixml -path "$cfgPath" is being treated as a whole separate variable (and is local to the function) because of scoping rules. I thought it would be more like a c# class and so would assign to the script level variable of the same name.
I am LOVING powershell but dynamic typing does make things trickier.
EDIT 2
Both answers were insightful. In such a case I usual give the answer to the person with the fewest reputation. And I did in fact Andy's second example in any case.
Seth
A:
You create new variable with name $configData. You have several options (depending on your environment/script/...)
The most obvious is - just return the value and assign it to config data
function Load-Config ()
{
if (test-path ($cfgPath))
{
Import-Clixml -path "$cfgPath"
}
}
$configData = load-Config
You might also use object and its property like this:
$configData = @{Data = $null}
function Load-Config ()
{
if (test-path ($cfgPath))
{
$configData.Data = Import-Clixml -path "$cfgPath"
}
}
Or it is possible to use script: scope:
function Load-Config ()
{
if (test-path ($cfgPath))
{
$script:configData = Import-Clixml -path "$cfgPath"
}
}
A:
You have a scoping issue with variable $configData. When you set it's value in the function it is not available outside. You can use a scope modifier to fix it or return the value.
Check out get-help about_scopes or click here.
Scope Modifier:
$cfgPath = 'C:\Test.xml'
$script:configData = New-Object System.Collections.ArrayList
function Load-Config ()
{
if (test-path ($cfgPath))
{
$script:configData = Import-Clixml -path "$cfgPath"
}
}
load-config
$configData
Note - Your ArrayList gets overwritten using Import-Clixml and is a different type on return.
Return the new value:
$cfgPath = 'C:\Test.xml'
function Load-Config ()
{
if (test-path ($cfgPath))
{
$data = Import-Clixml -path "$cfgPath"
return $data
}
}
$configData = load-config
|
{
"pile_set_name": "StackExchange"
}
|
3 definitions
by
KPS
The term "statis" has several meanings. All of them good, however. It is a term used to describe someone who is either wealthy, popular with women, famous, or anything else that is deemed "cool".
The word "statis" was created sometime in late 1999 or early 2000. The word was created by a man known as the "BSHT", or "Big Shot Hollywood Tycoon".
However, the reason this term still lives on to this day, is due to one man by the name of Michael J.K. He is often referred to as "The Korean Pop Sensation". He is the individual responsible for popularizing the term.
The term is very popular today. It is mostly used in Los Angeles, but it is used in other parts of the country as well. Apparently, the word is even being used by some people in Harvard University. The word has even reached Asia, and is a very popular term in Seoul, Korea. It has also reached countries such as Japan, China, Russia, India, Bangladesh, Germany, France, Lithuania, Brasil, Mexico, Argentina, and Canada.
The word shows no sign of slowing down, as it only continues to become even more and more popular today.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
THE GOVERNMENT has insisted there is ample time for a fully-informed debate on the EU’s fiscal compact over the next six weeks despite the commission set up for last October’s two referendums complaining that it was given a “grossly inadequate time frame”.
Taoiseach Enda Kenny, Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore and Minister for Finance Michael Noonan all expressed confidence that the new Referendum Commission would be in a position to make all relevant information available to facilitate a full debate.
Speaking separately, they also drew a distinction between the fact that the poll on May 31st would be held to decide a single issue and would not be held in conjunction with another referendum and an election, as happened last October.
They were responding to an article in The Irish Times which disclosed details of the report by the Referendum Commission on votes on judges’ pay and Oireachtas inquiries. The report was delivered to Minister for the Environment Phil Hogan on March 2nd, but has yet to be published.
The Department of the Environment said that as of last night the agenda for today’s Cabinet meeting did not include the report which would have to be presented to Ministers before publication.
The commission carried out research that showed that a lack of understanding of what was proposed had a significant bearing on the voting intentions of a substantial number of voters who voted No or abstained.
It criticised the fact that it had “just five weeks” to prepare its explanation of the proposals, write the text of the guide and print and distribute it throughout the State.
The referendum on judges’ pay was passed, while voters rejected the proposed constitutional amendment extending the power of the Oireachtas to conduct inquiries.
Yesterday, a spokesman for the Taoiseach said this referendum was given sufficient time for public debate. The Taoiseach had committed at the end of February that it would be a stand-alone referendum.
A spokeswoman for the Tánaiste rejected the proposition that it was being rushed. “We are confident that there will be full debate on this referendum.”
Mr Noonan said this commission would have a two-month period, and said the work was already under way. “The thing to remember is that this treaty isn’t like the Lisbon Treaty. It has about 20 pages that will explain the whole lot, and it’s possible for anybody to sit down for an hour and read it and understand it. It doesn’t have the complex detail issues that were in the Lisbon Treaty, which confused people.”
Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin called on Mr Hogan to explain what he described as “suppression” of the Referendum Commission’s report.
Saying sections had been leaked to The Irish Times, he asked why Mr Hogan had “sat on it for six weeks”.
“There will be public suspicion that a Government obsessed by spin is simply trying to avoid publishing a document that may be critical of its performance.”
|
{
"pile_set_name": "OpenWebText2"
}
|
---
abstract: |
We investigate the coupling between the magnetic and superconducting order parameters in an 8 m long meander line (wire") made of a $%
\mathrm{La_{1.94}Sr_{0.06}CuO_{4}}$ film with a cross section of $0.5\times
100$ $\mathrm{\mu m^{2}}$. The magnetic order parameter is determined using the Low-Energy muon spin relaxation technique. The superconducting order parameter is characterized by transport measurements and modified by high current density. We find that when the superconducting order parameter is suppressed by the current, the magnetic transition temperature, $T_{m}$, increases. The extracted sign and magnitude of the Ginzburg-Landau coupling constant indicate that the two orders are repulsive, and that our system is located close to the border between first and second order phase transition.
author:
- Meni Shay
- Amit Keren
- Gad Koren
- Amit Kanigel
- Oren Shafir
- Lital Marcipar
- Gerard Nieuwenhuys
- Elvezio Morenzoni
- Andreas Suter
- Thomas Prokscha
- Moshe Dubman
- Daniel Podolsky
title: 'The interaction between the magnetic and superconducting order parameters in a $\mathrm{La_{1.94}Sr_{0.06}CuO_{4}}$ wire '
---
When cuprates are doped their low temperature ordered phase changes from an antiferromagnetic (AFM) to a superconducting (SC) one. The transition takes place over a range of doping levels where, at low enough temperatures, the samples are both superconducting and magnetic [Niedermayer98,JulienPRL99,Tranquada]{}. It is natural to expect phase separation due to the inhomogenous doping. However local probe such as muon spin relaxation indicates that the magnetic volume fraction is 100%, namely, the magnetic field exists everywhere, even in the SC regions [Niedermayer98]{}. Therefore, the nature of the presence of SC and magnetism is unclear. Are the two orders coupled, and if yes, what are the sign and strength of the coupling? What is the order of the transition between the AFM and SC phases as a function of doping? Is it first order with phase separation or second order with coexistence?
Here we answer this question by looking at the effect of current $I$ on the magnetic phase transition temperature, $T_{m}$. A current, on the scale of the second critical current $I_{c2}$, diminishes the superconducting order parameter. If the two orders interact, the magnetic order parameter is expected to react to the current and either increase or decrease depending on the type of coupling between the two orders. This, in turn, will increase or decrease $T_{m}$, respectively. Therefore, we map the magnetic phase transition with and without current. We find that, with current, the magnetic phase transition temperature increases. This results implies that the orders are coupled, and that they are repulsive. Analysis based on the Ginzburg-Landau (GL) model shows that the phase transition is close to the border between first and second order.
The experiment is done with an 8 m long wire made of $\mathrm{%
La_{1.94}Sr_{0.06}CuO_{4}}$ film. The film is prepared using laser ablation deposition on (100) $\mathrm{{LaAlO_{3}}}$ substrate, standard photolithographic patterning and wet acid etching (0.05% HCl). The 6% Sr doping was chosen since the corresponding bulk material has a $T_{c}\approx
10$ K and $T_{m}\approx 6$ K [@Niedermayer98; @Panagopoulos2002; @Uemura90], which makes both critical temperatures reachable in a standard cryostat. The cross section of the wire is $0.5$ $\mathrm{{\mu m}\times 100}$ $\mathrm{%
\mu m}$ so that a typical applied current of a few mA is comparable to $%
I_{c2}$. Probing the magnetic properties of such a thin wire is achieved by using the new low energy muon spin relaxation (LE-$\mu $SR) technique [Prokscha2008,em1994prl]{}. In this technique, the muons are first slowed down in an Ar moderator where their kinetic energy drops from 4 MeV to 15 eV, while their initial full polarization is conserved. They are then electrostatically accelerated to 15 keV and transported in ultra high vacuum (UHV) to the sample. Four counters collect positrons from the asymmetric muon decay. One pair of counters is parallel to the initial muon spin direction and the other pair is perpendicular to it. The muon asymmetry in these directions is calculated by taking the difference over the sum of the count for each pair. This asymmetry is proportional to the component of the muon polarization in each direction. The field the muon experience is either internal, below $T_{m}$, or external (designated by H), or both. For more details on $\mu $SR in the presence of superconductivity and magnetism see Ref. . The muons beam spot size has a 15 mm diameter (FWHM). In order to avoid muons missing the sample, the wire is folded in the form of a long meandering line covering a disc 3 cm in diameter. The inset of Fig. \[fig2\] shows a magnified image of one corner of the sample.
First, we discuss the sample characterization. In order to verify that the wire is indeed a bulk superconductor and that the current flows in the bulk of the wire we performed transverse field LE-$\mu $SR measurements in a field of $H=1$ kG. Figure \[fig2\](a) depicts the results from the magnetic phase ($T=2.9$ K) in a rotating reference frame, using zero field cooling (ZFC). The muons depolarize very quickly and after $3$ $\mathrm{\mu s%
}$ the remaining decay asymmetry is due to muons that have stopped in the substrate. For comparison, data from a blank substrate, normalized by its effective area, are also shown. We also present the decay asymmetry in the pure superconducting phase ($T=6$ K) using field cooling (FC) conditions. In this case, the muon polarization is lost exponentially versus time at a rate $r_{sc}$ due to the magnetic field distribution of the vortices in the superconducting phase. After $6$ $\mathrm{\mu s}$ the polarization reaches the level of the substrate and the ZFC run, and thus most of the muons are affected by vortices.
We fit the function: $$\begin{aligned}
Asy(t) &=&A_{sc}e^{-(r_{n}t)^{2}/2-r_{sc}t}\cos (\omega _{sc}t)+A_{sb}e^{-r_{sb}t}\cos (\omega _{n-sb}t) \nonumber
\\
&&+A_{n}e^{-(r_{n}t)^{2}/2}\cos
(\omega _{n-sb}t) \label{eq:Asy}\end{aligned}$$to the muon decay asymmetry at all temperatures. Here $A_{sc}$, $A_{sb}$, and $A_{n}$ represent the respective contributions from the part of the meander that turns superconducting upon cooling, the substrate, and the part of the meander that remains normal upon cooling. $r_{sc}$, $r_{sb}$, and $%
r_{n}$ are the relaxation rates of muons that land in a superconducting, substrate, and normal material, respectively. $\omega _{n-sb}$ is the rotation frequencies in the normal material and the substrate (taken to be equal). $\omega _{sc}$ is the rotation frequency in the superconducting part. The only parameters that are allowed to vary with $T$ are $r_{sc}$ and $\omega _{sc}$. The superconducting volume fraction is estimated from $%
A_{sc}/(A_{sc}+A_{n})$ and was found to be $90\pm 5\%$.
Figure \[fig2\](b) shows $r_{sc}$ and the resistivity versus temperature. The midpoint of the resistivity transition to the superconducting state, and the onset of $r_{sc}(T)$ occur at $T_{c}=16$ K. The London penetration depth $\lambda _{ab}$ at $T=7$ K is $500$ nm as estimated from the relation $%
r_{sc}=0.04\gamma _{\mu }\phi _{0}/\lambda _{ab}^{2}$ where $\gamma _{\mu
}/2\pi =13.5$ MHz/kG is the muon gyromagnetic ratio, and $\phi _{0}$ is the magnetic flux quanta [@Brandt88]. This penetration depth value is similar to the meander thickness and therefore the current will flow uniformly in the bulk of the meandering wire.
![(color online) Determination of the superconducting volume fraction and penetration depth (a) $\protect\mu $SR asymmetry under an applied field of 1 kG in a rotating reference frame at $T=2.9$ K with zero field cooling, $%
T=6.0$ K with field cooling, and at $T=5$ K from the substrate. (b) The resistivity and muon depolarization rate $r_{sc}$ as a function of temperature showing $T_{c}$. Below $T_{m}\approx 6$ K the muon relaxation increases rapidly.[]{data-label="fig2"}](fig2.ps){width="3.2093in"}
It is challenging to flow a current in the meander line during a LE-$\mathrm{%
\mu }$SR experiment while keeping its temperature well determined. This results from the fact that the sample is cooled by a cold finger in a UHV ambient. Above the first critical current, $I_{c1}$, the superconducting wire acts as a heater and is not in thermal equilibrium with either the cold finger or any attached thermometer. Therefore, the wire’s temperature can be measured only by an *a priori* calibration procedure. For this, we chose to take the V-I curve of the wire at each temperature in a flow cryostat. In such a cryostat the thermal contact between the wire and a thermometer, even at high currents, is good. Using this calibration, the wire acts as its own thermometer. To account for possible drifts in the calibration we repeated the calibration in the flow cryostat also after the LE-$\mu $SR experiment. This proved the temperature uncertainty to be smaller than 0.01 K, namely, when we say that we are comparing two runs with equal temperatures we mean that we managed to keep the two runs 0.01K away from each other.
Fig. \[fig3\](a) shows several V-I curves recorded at different temperatures on a short segment (1 cm long) of the wire. These V-I curves are used for the determination of $I_{c1}$ and $I_{c2}$ which are needed for the analysis. The curves are fitted to the function $\Theta
(I-I_{c1})e^{k(I-I_{c1})}$, where $\Theta $ is the Heaviside step function. It is seen in Fig. \[fig3\](a) that, at $T=12$ K, $I_{c1}$ drops to zero and the 1 cm segment of the wire shows Ohmic behavior with a normal resistance of $R_{n}=60\Omega $. We estimate $I_{c2}$ using a variation of the offset criterion [@concise]. The exponential dependence of $V$ on $I$ is extrapolated to the value of $I$ that gives a differential resistance equal to $R_{n}$. The obtained values of both critical currents as a function of temperature are plotted in Fig. \[fig3\](b).
![(color online) Calibration curves used for temperature determination and for the estimation of $I_{c1}$ and $I_{c2}$.(a) V-I curves of a short segment of the wire. Similar measurements on the full wire are used for the temperature calibration. (b) $I_{c1}$ and $I_{c2}$ as a function of temperature were extracted from the data shown in the top panel.[]{data-label="fig3"}](fig3.ps){width="3.2093in"}
Next, we study the effect of the current on the magnetic order. Figure [fig4]{} shows raw muon decay asymmetry data from the meander wire at several temperatures with no external field and in the laboratory frame. The open symbols represent measurements at low currents (used only for temperature determination) and the solid symbols are measurements at high currents. At $%
T>T_{m}$, the asymmetry resembles a Gaussian with relatively slow relaxation, typical of magnetic fields generated by copper nuclear magnetic moments. As the temperature decreases, there is a clear increase in the muon spin depolarization rate indicating that the magnetic order has set in. For comparison, we show in the inset of Fig. \[fig4\] standard $\mu $SR measurements taken with a He flow cryostat on the bulk powder used for making the film. In this case the measurements could be extended to $T=1.65$ K. We find that the magnetic transition in the wire is very similar to that of ours and others bulk samples [@Niedermayer98; @Uemura90], having similar $T_{m}$. In addition, the data in the bulk at low enough temperatures is typical of the case where muons in the full sample volume experience frozen magnetism, with spontaneous precession below about $2$ K with a frequency $f\simeq 3$ MHz, again in agreement with others.
The effect of the current is demonstrated by the $T=5$ K measurement (red symbols in Fig. \[fig4\]). The depolarization of the muons spin is faster when a higher current is applied. The difference between the two measurements is emphasized by the shaded area. The change in the asymmetry line shape caused by the application of current is equivalent to cooling by about $0.3$ K, although, as mentioned before, the sample temperature is stable to within $0.01$ K. This effect was observed at several temperatures along the magnetic transition.
![(color online) Muon decay asymmetry measurements versus time at low current (open symbols) and high current (solid symbols). Different colours represent different temperatures. The area shaded in yellow marks the effect of the current on the muon decay asymmetry at 5 K. The horizontal line shows the expected base line from the substrate. The inset shows standard $\protect%
\mu$SR measurements on the bulk powder used for making the film.[]{data-label="fig4"}](fig4.ps){width="3.2093in"}
![(color online) The magnetic phase transition, with and without current. Solid lines are guide to the eye.[]{data-label="fig5"}](fig5.ps){width="3.2093in"}
Above $T_{m}$ and below $4$ K the application of current has no effect on the asymmetry. This finding is particularly important since, *a priori*, the current might affect the muon asymmetry directly by means of the magnetic field it produces, or by colliding with the muons. However, we found that once the electronic spins are fully frozen the current does not change the muon asymmetry indicating that there is no direct current muon coupling. This is in agreement with calculations showing that the magnetic field the current produces is very small compared to the internal field. Similarly, the lack of current effect above $T_{m}$ rules out collisions between muon and electron charge.
In order to determine the magnetic phase transition temperature, without assuming a specific spatial field distribution or temporal fluctuation model, we define the order parameter in a model-free way. At each temperature the asymmetry as a function of time is averaged to produce $%
\langle Asy\rangle =\frac{1}{t_{m}}\int_{0}^{t_{m}}Asy(t)dt$ where the measurement time $t_{m}=8$ $\mu \sec $. We expect $\langle Asy\rangle $ to decrease with increasing magnetic moment size $M(T)$, and therefore defined $$\frac{M(T)}{M(0)}\equiv \frac{\langle Asy\rangle ^{-1}\left( T\right)
-\langle Asy\rangle ^{-1}\left( \infty \right) }{\langle Asy\rangle
^{-1}\left( 0\right) -\langle Asy\rangle ^{-1}\left( \infty \right) }.
\label{eq:mPol}$$For $\langle Asy\rangle \left( \infty \right) $ we take the averaged $Asy$ at $T=7.35$ K, which is above the transition. The magnetic phase transition temperature $T_{m}$ is taken as the onset of the sudden change in $M(T)$. The magnetic transition is sharp enough that other, model-based, analysis methods gave indistinguishable $M(T)$. The temperature dependence of $M$ with and without current is presented in Fig. \[fig5\]. We find that the application of a current of about $0.2\cdot I_{c2}(T)$ increases the magnetic phase transition temperature by $0.4\pm 0.1$ K. This effect means that the two orders interact repulsively. It is complementary to the effect of a strong magnetic field on doped samples, where the magnetic order is enhanced while the superconducting order is suppressed [Katano2000,Lake2002]{}. However, since current, in contrast to magnetic field, does not couple directly to spins, the effect presented here is more simply analyzed. For example, it shows that the enhanced magnetism in the applied field could be a result of supercurrent in the bulk [DemlerPRL01]{}, and not necessarily due to magnetism in the vortex core [HuJCP]{}.
A simple interpretation of the result can be given in the framework of the GL model. In this model the free energy density near the critical temperature $T_{m}$ can be written as $F=-a(T)\left(
1-I^{2}/I_{c2}^{2}\right) |\psi |^{2}+U_{s}|\psi |^{4}-b\left(
T_{m}^{0}-T\right) |\phi |^{2}+U_{m}|\phi |^{4}+2U_{sm}|\phi |^{2}|\psi
|^{2} $ (plus gradient terms) where $\psi $ and $\phi =M/\sqrt{v}\mu _{B}$ are the superconducting and magnetic order parameters respectively, $U_{sm}$ is their coupling constant, $v$ is the unit cell volume, $b$ is a dimensionless parameter, $T_{m}^{0}$ is the magnetic phase transition temperature for $|\psi |^{2}=0$, $a(T)$, $U_{s}$ and $U_{m}$ are the standard GL parameters. All the parameters can be experimentally determined [@Huang; @DeGennes]: ${a(T)}={\hbar ^{2}/2m}^{{\ast }}\xi ^{2}$ where $\xi =2~$nm is the superconducting coherence length [@EPL64]; ${\psi _{0}^{2}}%
=m^{\ast }/{4\mu _{0}e^{2}}\lambda ^{2}$ where $\lambda =500$ nm is the London penetration depth; $U_{s}=a/2\psi _{0}^{2}$ according to the minimum condition; ${bT}_{m}={\hbar ^{2}/2m\kappa }^{2}$ where ${%
\kappa }=4$ nm is the magnetic coherence length [MagneticCoherencelength1,MagneticCoherencelength2]{}; the electron mass can be approximated by the stiffness of the xy model where $\hbar ^{2}/mA=J$, $A$ is the cell area and $J\simeq 10^{3}$ K is the superexchange; from the ratio of muon oscillation frequency between our sample and pure $\mathrm{{%
La_{2}CuO_{4}}}$ [@Magneticmoment] we find a local magnetic moment $%
M=0.33\mu _{B}$ giving $\phi ^{2}=0.33^{2}/v$; $U_{m}=bT_{m}/2\phi _{0}^{2}$ again by the minimum condition.
$U_{sm}$ is obtained from our current dependent measurement (neglecting gradient terms at this stage). Since $T_{c}$ is higher than $T_{m}$ we do not expect $|\phi |^{2}$ to affect $|\psi |^{2}$. Therefore $|\psi
(I,T)|^{2}=|\psi (0,T)|^{2}(1-I^{2}/I_{c2}^{2})$. The minimization of $F$ with respect to $|\phi |^{2}$ yields, $|\phi |^{2}={b(T_{m}^{0}-2U_{sm}|\psi
(I,T)|^{2}/b-T)}/{2U_{m}}$. Thus, the measured magnetic transition temperature is given by $T_{m}=T_{m}^{0}-2U_{sm}|\psi (I,T_{m})|^{2}/b$. We assume that near $T_{m}$, $\psi ^{2}(0,T)=\psi _{0}^{2}$ where $\psi
_{0}^{2} $ is the ground state value of $\psi ^{2}$. Therefore, the change in the transition temperature, $\delta T_{m}\equiv T_{m}(I)-T_{m}(0)$, caused by the current is $\delta T_{m}(I)={2U_{sm}\psi
_{0}^{2}I^{2}/bI_{c2}^{2}}.$ The interesting parameter is $$R\equiv \frac{U_{sm}}{\sqrt{U_{s}U_{m}}}=\frac{2e\lambda \xi
MI_{c2}^{2}\delta T_{m}}{\mu _{_{B}}\hbar \kappa I^{2}T_{m}}\sqrt{\frac{J\mu
_{0}}{h}}$$where $h$ is the unit cell height. For $R>1$ the GL model predicts phase separation and first order phase transition. For $R<1$ the model predicts coexistence and a second order phase transition. The $R=1$ condition is essential for SO(5) symmetry [@Demler04]. At $T=5$ K we found that $%
I_{c2}=17$ mA (see Fig. \[fig3\]b) and used $I=4$ mA in the LE-$\mu $SR. This yields a positive $R=1.4$. Although numerical factors can change $R$, they cannot change its proximity to unity.
In summary, we demonstrated the presence of interaction between the magnetic and superconducting order parameters and measured its sign and strength. We find that phase transition at zero temperature from magnetic to superconducting orders, as a consequence of doping, must be very close to the boarder between first and second order.
We acknowledge very helpful discussions with Assa Auerbach and Yariv Kafri. We also thank the PSI team for supporting the $\mu $SR experiments, and for providing the continuous high quality beam. This work was also funded in part by the Israeli Science Foundation and the joint German-Israeli DIP project.
[99]{} Ch. Niedermayer, C. Bernhard, T. Blasius, A. Golnik, A. Moodenbaugh, and J. I. Budnick, Phys. Rev. Lett. **80**, 3843, (1998).
M.-H. Julien, F. Borsa, P. Carretta, M. Horvatic', C. Berthier, and C. T. Lin, Phys. Rev. Lett. **83**, 604 (1999).
J. M. Tranquada et al., Nature **375**, 561 (1995).
C. Panagopoulos, J. L. Tallon, B. D. Rainford, T. Xiang, J. R. Cooper, and C. A. Scott, Phys. Rev. B **66**, 064501 (2002).
B. J. Sternlieb, G. M. Luke, Y. J. Uemura, T. M. Riseman, J. H. Brewer, P. M. Gehring, K. Yamada, Y. Hidaka, T. Murakami, T. R. Thurston, R. J. Birgeneau, Phys. Rev B **41**, 8866, (1990).
T. Prokscha, E. Morenzoni, K. Deiters, F. Foroughi, D. George, R. Kobler, A. Suter, V. Vrankovic, Nucl. Instr. Meth. A **595** 317-331 (2008).
E. Morenzoni, F. Kottmann, D. Maden, B. Matthias, M. Meyberg, T. Prokscha, T. Wutzke, U. Zimmermann, Phys. Rev. Lett. **72**, 2793 (1994).
J. E. Sonier, Reports on Progress in Physics **70**, 1717 (2007).
E. H. Brandt, Phys. Rev. B **37**, 2349 (1988).
J. W. Ekin in *Concise Encyclopedia of Magnetic and Superconducting Materials*, edited by J. E. Evetts (Pergamon, New York, 1991).
S. Katano, M. Sato, K. Yamada, T. Suzuki, and T. Fukase Phys. Rev. B **62**, R14677 (2000).
B. Lake *et al.* Nature **415**, 299 (2002).
E. Demler, S. Sachdev, and Y. Zhang, Phys. Rev. Lett **87**, 067202 (2001).
Jiang-Ping Hu, Shou-Cheng Zhang, Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids **63**, 2277 (2002).
K. Huang, *Statistical Mechanics* $\mathrm{{2^{nd}}}$ edition, p.425, (John Wiley & Sons, New York, 1987).
P. G. de Gennes, *Superconductivity of Metals and Alloys* , p.185, (Westview press, 1999).
H. H. Wen, H. P. Yang, S. L. Li, X. H. Zeng, A. A. Soukiassian,W. D. Si and X. X. Xi, Eur. Phys. Lett. **64**, 790 (2003).
R. J. Birgeneau *et al.* Phys. Rev. B **38**, 6614 (1988).
B. Keimer *et. al.* Phys. Rev. B **46** 14034 (1992).
Y. S. Lee *et al.* Phys. Rev. B **60**, 3643 (1999).
E. Demler, W. Hanke and S. C. Zhang, Rev. Mod. Phys. **76**, 909 (2004).
|
{
"pile_set_name": "ArXiv"
}
|
/*
* Copyright (C) 2014 Alfons Wirtz
* website www.freerouting.net
*
* This program is free software: you can redistribute it and/or modify
* it under the terms of the GNU General Public License as published by
* the Free Software Foundation, either version 3 of the License, or
* (at your option) any later version.
*
* This program is distributed in the hope that it will be useful,
* but WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY; without even the implied warranty of
* MERCHANTABILITY or FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. See the
* GNU General Public License at <http://www.gnu.org/licenses/>
* for more details.
*/
package autoroute;
import java.util.Iterator;
import java.util.Collection;
import java.util.Set;
import java.util.SortedSet;
import java.util.TreeSet;
import datastructures.TimeLimit;
import datastructures.UndoableObjects;
import geometry.planar.FloatPoint;
import geometry.planar.FloatLine;
import board.Connectable;
import board.Item;
import board.DrillItem;
import board.RoutingBoard;
import interactive.BoardHandling;
import interactive.InteractiveActionThread;
/**
* Handles the sequencing of the batch autoroute passes.
*
* @author Alfons Wirtz
*/
public class BatchAutorouter
{
/**
* Autoroutes ripup passes until the board is completed or the autorouter is stopped by the user,
* or if p_max_pass_count is exceeded. Is currently used in the optimize via batch pass.
* Returns the number of oasses to complete the board or p_max_pass_count + 1,
* if the board is not completed.
*/
public static int autoroute_passes_for_optimizing_item(InteractiveActionThread p_thread,
int p_max_pass_count, int p_ripup_costs, boolean p_with_prefered_directions)
{
BatchAutorouter router_instance = new BatchAutorouter(p_thread, true, p_with_prefered_directions, p_ripup_costs);
boolean still_unrouted_items = true;
int curr_pass_no = 1;
while (still_unrouted_items && !router_instance.is_interrupted && curr_pass_no <= p_max_pass_count)
{
if (p_thread.is_stop_requested())
{
router_instance.is_interrupted = true;
}
still_unrouted_items = router_instance.autoroute_pass(curr_pass_no, false);
if (still_unrouted_items && !router_instance.is_interrupted)
{
p_thread.hdlg.settings.autoroute_settings.increment_pass_no();
}
++curr_pass_no;
}
router_instance.remove_tails(Item.StopConnectionOption.NONE);
if (!still_unrouted_items)
{
--curr_pass_no;
}
return curr_pass_no;
}
/**
* Creates a new batch autorouter.
*/
public BatchAutorouter(InteractiveActionThread p_thread, boolean p_remove_unconnected_vias, boolean p_with_preferred_directions,
int p_start_ripup_costs)
{
this.thread = p_thread;
this.hdlg = p_thread.hdlg;
this.routing_board = this.hdlg.get_routing_board();
this.remove_unconnected_vias = p_remove_unconnected_vias;
if (p_with_preferred_directions)
{
this.trace_cost_arr = this.hdlg.settings.autoroute_settings.get_trace_cost_arr();
}
else
{
// remove prefered direction
this.trace_cost_arr = new AutorouteControl.ExpansionCostFactor[this.routing_board.get_layer_count()];
for (int i = 0; i < this.trace_cost_arr.length; ++i)
{
double curr_min_cost = this.hdlg.settings.autoroute_settings.get_preferred_direction_trace_costs(i);
this.trace_cost_arr[i] = new AutorouteControl.ExpansionCostFactor(curr_min_cost, curr_min_cost);
}
}
this.start_ripup_costs = p_start_ripup_costs;
this.retain_autoroute_database = false;
}
/**
* Autoroutes ripup passes until the board is completed or the autorouter is stopped by the user.
* Returns true if the board is completed.
*/
public boolean autoroute_passes()
{
java.util.ResourceBundle resources =
java.util.ResourceBundle.getBundle("interactive.resources.InteractiveState", hdlg.get_locale());
boolean still_unrouted_items = true;
while (still_unrouted_items && !this.is_interrupted)
{
if (thread.is_stop_requested())
{
this.is_interrupted = true;
}
Integer curr_pass_no = hdlg.settings.autoroute_settings.get_pass_no();
String start_message = resources.getString("batch_autorouter") + " " + resources.getString("stop_message") + " " + resources.getString("pass") + " " + curr_pass_no.toString() + ": ";
hdlg.screen_messages.set_status_message(start_message);
still_unrouted_items = autoroute_pass(curr_pass_no, true);
if (still_unrouted_items && !is_interrupted)
{
hdlg.settings.autoroute_settings.increment_pass_no();
}
}
if (!(this.remove_unconnected_vias || still_unrouted_items || this.is_interrupted))
{
// clean up the route if the board is completed and if fanout is used.
remove_tails(Item.StopConnectionOption.NONE);
}
return !this.is_interrupted;
}
/**
* Autoroutes one ripup pass of all items of the board.
* Returns false, if the board is already completely routed.
*/
private boolean autoroute_pass(int p_pass_no, boolean p_with_screen_message)
{
try
{
Collection<Item> autoroute_item_list = new java.util.LinkedList<Item>();
Set<Item> handeled_items = new TreeSet<Item>();
Iterator<UndoableObjects.UndoableObjectNode> it = routing_board.item_list.start_read_object();
for (;;)
{
UndoableObjects.Storable curr_ob = routing_board.item_list.read_object(it);
if (curr_ob == null)
{
break;
}
if (curr_ob instanceof Connectable && curr_ob instanceof Item)
{
Item curr_item = (Item) curr_ob;
if (!curr_item.is_route())
{
if (!handeled_items.contains(curr_item))
{
for (int i = 0; i < curr_item.net_count(); ++i)
{
int curr_net_no = curr_item.get_net_no(i);
Set<Item> connected_set = curr_item.get_connected_set(curr_net_no);
for (Item curr_connected_item : connected_set)
{
if (curr_connected_item.net_count() <= 1)
{
handeled_items.add(curr_connected_item);
}
}
int net_item_count = routing_board.connectable_item_count(curr_net_no);
if (connected_set.size() < net_item_count)
{
autoroute_item_list.add(curr_item);
}
}
}
}
}
}
if (autoroute_item_list.isEmpty())
{
this.air_line = null;
return false;
}
int items_to_go_count = autoroute_item_list.size();
int ripped_item_count = 0;
int not_found = 0;
int routed = 0;
if (p_with_screen_message)
{
hdlg.screen_messages.set_batch_autoroute_info(items_to_go_count, routed, ripped_item_count, not_found);
}
for (Item curr_item : autoroute_item_list)
{
if (this.is_interrupted)
{
break;
}
for (int i = 0; i < curr_item.net_count(); ++i)
{
if (this.thread.is_stop_requested())
{
this.is_interrupted = true;
break;
}
routing_board.start_marking_changed_area();
SortedSet<Item> ripped_item_list = new TreeSet<Item>();
if (autoroute_item(curr_item, curr_item.get_net_no(i), ripped_item_list, p_pass_no))
{
++routed;
hdlg.repaint();
}
else
{
++not_found;
}
--items_to_go_count;
ripped_item_count += ripped_item_list.size();
if (p_with_screen_message)
{
hdlg.screen_messages.set_batch_autoroute_info(items_to_go_count, routed, ripped_item_count, not_found);
}
}
}
if (routing_board.get_test_level() != board.TestLevel.ALL_DEBUGGING_OUTPUT)
{
Item.StopConnectionOption stop_connection_option;
if (this.remove_unconnected_vias)
{
stop_connection_option = Item.StopConnectionOption.NONE;
}
else
{
stop_connection_option = Item.StopConnectionOption.FANOUT_VIA;
}
remove_tails(stop_connection_option);
}
this.air_line = null;
return true;
} catch (Exception e)
{
this.air_line = null;
return false;
}
}
private void remove_tails(Item.StopConnectionOption p_stop_connection_option)
{
routing_board.start_marking_changed_area();
routing_board.remove_trace_tails(-1, p_stop_connection_option);
routing_board.opt_changed_area(new int[0], null, this.hdlg.settings.get_trace_pull_tight_accuracy(),
this.trace_cost_arr, this.thread, TIME_LIMIT_TO_PREVENT_ENDLESS_LOOP);
}
private boolean autoroute_item(Item p_item, int p_route_net_no, SortedSet<Item> p_ripped_item_list, int p_ripup_pass_no)
{
try
{
boolean contains_plane = false;
rules.Net route_net = routing_board.rules.nets.get(p_route_net_no);
if (route_net != null)
{
contains_plane = route_net.contains_plane();
}
int curr_via_costs;
if (contains_plane)
{
curr_via_costs = hdlg.settings.autoroute_settings.get_plane_via_costs();
}
else
{
curr_via_costs = hdlg.settings.autoroute_settings.get_via_costs();
}
AutorouteControl autoroute_control = new AutorouteControl(this.routing_board, p_route_net_no, hdlg.settings, curr_via_costs, this.trace_cost_arr);
autoroute_control.ripup_allowed = true;
autoroute_control.ripup_costs = this.start_ripup_costs * p_ripup_pass_no;
autoroute_control.remove_unconnected_vias = this.remove_unconnected_vias;
Set<Item> unconnected_set = p_item.get_unconnected_set(p_route_net_no);
if (unconnected_set.size() == 0)
{
return true; // p_item is already routed.
}
Set<Item> connected_set = p_item.get_connected_set(p_route_net_no);
Set<Item> route_start_set;
Set<Item> route_dest_set;
if (contains_plane)
{
for (Item curr_item : connected_set)
{
if (curr_item instanceof board.ConductionArea)
{
return true; // already connected to plane
}
}
}
if (contains_plane)
{
route_start_set = connected_set;
route_dest_set = unconnected_set;
}
else
{
route_start_set = unconnected_set;
route_dest_set = connected_set;
}
calc_airline(route_start_set, route_dest_set);
double max_milliseconds = 100000 * Math.pow(2, p_ripup_pass_no - 1);
max_milliseconds = Math.min(max_milliseconds, Integer.MAX_VALUE);
TimeLimit time_limit = new TimeLimit((int) max_milliseconds);
AutorouteEngine autoroute_engine = routing_board.init_autoroute(p_route_net_no,
autoroute_control.trace_clearance_class_no, this.thread, time_limit, this.retain_autoroute_database);
AutorouteEngine.AutorouteResult autoroute_result = autoroute_engine.autoroute_connection(route_start_set, route_dest_set, autoroute_control,
p_ripped_item_list);
if (autoroute_result == AutorouteEngine.AutorouteResult.ROUTED)
{
routing_board.opt_changed_area(new int[0], null, this.hdlg.settings.get_trace_pull_tight_accuracy(), autoroute_control.trace_costs, this.thread, TIME_LIMIT_TO_PREVENT_ENDLESS_LOOP);
}
// tests.Validate.check("Autoroute ", hdlg.get_routing_board());
boolean result = autoroute_result == AutorouteEngine.AutorouteResult.ROUTED || autoroute_result == AutorouteEngine.AutorouteResult.ALREADY_CONNECTED;
return result;
} catch (Exception e)
{
return false;
}
}
/**
* Returns the airline of the current autorouted connnection or null,
* if no such airline exists
*/
public FloatLine get_air_line()
{
if (this.air_line == null)
{
return null;
}
if (this.air_line.a == null || this.air_line.b == null)
{
return null;
}
return this.air_line;
}
private void calc_airline(Collection<Item> p_from_items, Collection<Item> p_to_items)
{
FloatPoint from_corner = null;
FloatPoint to_corner = null;
double min_distance = Double.MAX_VALUE;
for (Item curr_from_item : p_from_items)
{
if (!(curr_from_item instanceof DrillItem))
{
continue;
}
FloatPoint curr_from_corner = ((DrillItem) curr_from_item).get_center().to_float();
for (Item curr_to_item : p_to_items)
{
if (!(curr_to_item instanceof DrillItem))
{
continue;
}
FloatPoint curr_to_corner = ((DrillItem) curr_to_item).get_center().to_float();
double curr_distance = curr_from_corner.distance_square(curr_to_corner);
if (curr_distance < min_distance)
{
min_distance = curr_distance;
from_corner = curr_from_corner;
to_corner = curr_to_corner;
}
}
}
this.air_line = new FloatLine(from_corner, to_corner);
}
private final InteractiveActionThread thread;
private final BoardHandling hdlg;
private final RoutingBoard routing_board;
private boolean is_interrupted = false;
private final boolean remove_unconnected_vias;
private final AutorouteControl.ExpansionCostFactor[] trace_cost_arr;
private final boolean retain_autoroute_database;
private final int start_ripup_costs;
/** Used to draw the airline of the current routed incomplete. */
private FloatLine air_line = null;
private static final int TIME_LIMIT_TO_PREVENT_ENDLESS_LOOP = 1000;
}
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Github"
}
|
Lacrimal glands, which consist of a main gland and small accessory glands, have a multifaceted role in maintaining a homeostatic microenvironment for a healthy ocular surface through tear secretion[@b1]. The main lacrimal gland, which is organized according to a tubuloalveolar scheme that includes acini, ducts and myoepithelial cells, develops from its organ germ by induction from reciprocal epithelial and mesenchymal interactions during embryogenesis[@b2]. The tear film is a trilaminar fluid composed of a superficial lipid layer, an intermediate aqueous layer and an underlying mucous layer. This film covers the entire ocular surface, including the bulbar and palpebral conjunctiva, and the cornea[@b3]. The aqueous tear layer is produced by the lacrimal glands and contains water and various tear proteins, such as lactoferrin and lipocalin, which have several functions, including moisturising and antimicrobial activity[@b3][@b4]. The lipid layer, which has an important role in retarding water evaporation, is secreted by the meibomian gland in humans and the harderian gland in murine species[@b5][@b6][@b7]. Tears are indispensable to lid lubrication, protection of the epithelial surface and visual function.
Dry-eye disease (DED), which is caused by tear shortage, results from lacrimal gland dysfunction caused by systemic diseases and environmental exposures, such as Sjogren's syndrome and ocular cicatricial pemphigoid, or from other causes, including aging, long-term work with a visual display, dry room environments, the use of contact lenses and refractive surgery[@b8][@b9][@b10]. DED is one of the most prevalent eye diseases leading to corneal epithelial damage, which is characterized by the loss of individual cells from the superficial cell layer of the corneal epithelium. DED is diagnosed by a punctate pattern of fluorescence staining at the ocular surface[@b11]. The irregularity of the ocular surface, which is caused by the corneal epithelial damage, results in ocular discomfort, significant loss of vision and a decrease in the quality of life[@b12]. Current therapies for DED, including artificial tear solutions, are transient and do not completely substitute for the normal tear complex, which is composed of water, salts, hydrocarbons, proteins and lipids[@b13][@b14][@b15]. Several therapeutic approaches have been developed to restore lacrimal gland function, including heterotopic salivary gland transplantation[@b16] and regenerative medicine[@b17].
The current state of the art techniques in regenerative therapy use stem cell transplantation therapy to repair damaged tissue[@b18][@b19]. These methods use tissue-derived stem cells to treat various diseases, including hematopoietic malignancies[@b20], myocardial infarction[@b21] and hepatic insufficiency[@b22]. Candidates for secretory organ-derived stem cells are intercalated duct cells, human c-kit-positive duct cells and salivary gland-derived progenitor cells in duct-ligated or irradiated salivary gland model animals[@b23][@b24][@b25]. Stem cell transplantation therapy using lacrimal gland-derived progenitor cells, which are involved in the repair of impaired lacrimal glands, has been investigated for the recovery of lacrimal gland impairment[@b17][@b26]. In addition, a novel concept for organ-replacement regenerative therapy has been recently proposed to replace organs lost or damaged by disease, injury or aging[@b27][@b28][@b29]. We have demonstrated the successful replacement of entire and fully functioning bioengineered ectodermal organs, such as teeth and hair follicles, through coordination with peripheral tissues, such as nerves, by orthotopic engraftment of bioengineered organ germ.
Here we report functional bioengineered lacrimal gland replacement via an orthotopic engraftment of a bioengineered lacrimal gland germ into an extra-orbital lacrimal gland-defect mouse model, a model that mimics ocular-surface damage by lacrimal gland dysfunction. The bioengineered lacrimal and harderian gland germs, both developed *in vivo*, achieved sufficient physiological functions, including tear production in response to pilocarpine and menthol stimulation and ocular-surface protection. Our current study thus provides the potential for bioengineered lacrimal gland replacement to restore lacrimal gland function.
Results
=======
Generating bioengineered lacrimal and harderian gland germs
-----------------------------------------------------------
We first investigated whether bioengineered lacrimal gland and harderian gland germs could be reconstituted using our previously developed organ-germ method ([Fig. 1a](#f1){ref-type="fig"})[@b27]. We used dissociated single cells from the epithelial and mesenchymal tissues of embryonic day-16.5 murine-lacrimal gland germs and harderian gland germs to reconstitute bioengineered lacrimal gland and harderian gland germs ([Fig. 1b,c](#f1){ref-type="fig"}). After 1 day in organ culture, epithelial--mesenchymal interactions appeared to have occurred in both of the bioengineered gland germs, which had developed to the initial bud stage. After 3 days in organ culture, the bioengineered lacrimal gland germ and the harderian gland germ had both undergone branching morphogenesis, followed by stalk elongation and cleft formation ([Fig. 1d,e](#f1){ref-type="fig"}). These results indicated that bioengineered lacrimal glands and harderian glands could be reconstituted using the organ-germ method.
Engraftment and development of a bioengineered lacrimal gland
-------------------------------------------------------------
To induce ductal associations between the epithelium of the host excretory lacrimal duct and the bioengineered lacrimal or harderian gland germs, we used our previously developed interepithelial, tissue-connecting plastic device, which employs a polyglycolic acid (PGA) monofilament inserted into the bioengineered germ to direct the infundibulum ([Fig. 2a,b](#f2){ref-type="fig"}). The bioengineered lacrimal and harderian gland germs were then engrafted in the correct orientation into the lacrimal duct of a 7-week-old (adult) extra-orbital lacrimal gland-defect model mouse ([Fig. 2c](#f2){ref-type="fig"}). Within 30 days after engraftment of the bioengineered germs, transplant growth was apparent ([Fig. 2d](#f2){ref-type="fig"}). Macroscopic observation revealed that the engrafted bioengineered harderian gland had a brown-pigmented surface, which is a characteristic feature of the harderian glands ([Fig. 2e](#f2){ref-type="fig"})[@b6]. The bioengineered lacrimal and harderian glands could develop *in vitro* with the frequencies of 95.0% and 93.8%, respectively. The success rates for the development of engrafted bioengineered lacrimal and harderian glands were 77.8% and 73.7%, respectively. We also engrafted non-transgenic mice with green-fluorescence protein (GFP)-labelled bioengineered lacrimal gland germs that were reconstituted from lacrimal gland germ-derived epithelial and mesenchymal cells from GFP-transgenic mice. The GFP-labelled, bioengineered lacrimal glands were regenerated and could be observed in the engrafted area of the adult mice ([Fig. 2f](#f2){ref-type="fig"}). Excretory ducts that send secreted fluid to the target area are essential elements of the secretory glands. We next investigated whether the engrafted bioengineered lacrimal gland could connect with the lacrimal duct in the adult lacrimal gland-defect model mice. We confirmed that Evans blue dye injected into the host lacrimal duct reached the engrafted bioengineered lacrimal gland without leaking ([Fig. 2g](#f2){ref-type="fig"}). We also engrafted Discosoma sp. (DsRed)-labelled bioengineered lacrimal gland germs, which were reconstituted between DsRed transgenic mouse-derived epithelial cells and normal mouse-derived mesenchymal cells, for 14 days and then injected the Fluorescein 5-isothiocynate (FITC)--gelatin conjugate into the host lacrimal excretory duct. The duct connection between the DsRed-labelled bioengineered lacrimal gland and the recipient's excretory duct was histologically observed ([Fig. 2h](#f2){ref-type="fig"}). These findings indicated that the bioengineered lacrimal gland had successfully connected to the excretory duct of the recipient mouse. We next analysed the histological structures of the engrafted bioengineered glands. Lobules consisting of acinar cells and ducts were observed in the bioengineered lacrimal gland using HE staining and were similar to those of normal glands ([Fig. 2i](#f2){ref-type="fig"}). The bioengineered harderian glands had acini with large lumens and displayed brown pigment in the interstitial tissue, both of which are characteristic features of the natural harderian gland structure[@b6] ([Fig. 2i](#f2){ref-type="fig"}). The average±s.e.m of the maximum acini diameter were 48.6±1.5 and 70.9±1.7 μm in the bioengineered lacrimal and harderian glands, respectively, and 46.0±1.2 and 71.3±1.6 μm in the natural lacrimal and harderian glands, respectively. These results indicated that the engrafted bioengineered gland germ was accepted by the host and developed at the engraftment site, achieving a connection with the recipient duct.
Histology of bioengineered lacrimal and harderian glands
--------------------------------------------------------
We next analysed the three-dimensional (3D) structures and coordination of the transplanted bioengineered glands. Histological analysis revealed that acinar and duct cells in the bioengineered lacrimal and harderian glands were found to express E-cadherin ([Fig. 3a](#f3){ref-type="fig"}, left). Aquapolin-5 (AQP5), a membrane water-channel protein expressed on the ductal and apical membranes of acini that has an essential role in fluid secretion, was present in both bioengineered and natural lacrimal glands ([Fig. 3a](#f3){ref-type="fig"}, left). Acinar and duct cells in the bioengineered lacrimal and harderian glands contained calponin-expressing myoepithelial cells that enveloped the acini, similar to the structure observed in natural glands ([Fig. 3a](#f3){ref-type="fig"}, centre). Antineurofilament-immunoreactive nerve fibres were detected in the interstitial tissue among the acini of the bioengineered lacrimal glands and the fibres connected to the calponin-positive myoepithelial cells, as seen in the natural glands ([Fig. 3a](#f3){ref-type="fig"}, right). These results indicated that the transplanted bioengineered gland germ achieved the correct 3D structure and received nerve invasion following transplantation. Furthermore, analyses of the bioengineered lacrimal gland reconstituted between H2B-GFP-transgenic mice-derived epithelial cells and normal mice-derived mesenchymal cells revealed that the acinar and duct cells were derived from epithelial cells ([Fig. 3b](#f3){ref-type="fig"}). The myoepithelial cells are also derived from the epithelial cells because the cells have the FITC-labelled nuclei and calponin protein ([Fig. 3b](#f3){ref-type="fig"}). We next investigated whether the bioengineered lacrimal and harderian gland acini could produce the characteristic secretary substances. The expression of lactoferrin, a protein secreted by the lacrimal gland, was found in the acini of bioengineered lacrimal glands ([Fig. 3c](#f3){ref-type="fig"}). We used oil-red O staining to confirm that lipids, which are secreted mainly by the harderian gland, were present in the acini of the bioengineered harderian glands ([Fig. 3c](#f3){ref-type="fig"}). These results indicated that the bioengineered lacrimal and harderian glands would likely secrete the appropriate tear contents in response to neural stimulus.
Secretion of bioengineered tear and lipids
------------------------------------------
Appropriate nervous control of tear-fluid secretion is essential for the full function of bioengineered lacrimal glands and is required to protect the ocular surface. Therefore, we investigated whether bioengineered lacrimal glands would secrete proper tear fluid in response to nervous stimulation. After an intraperitoneal injection of pilocarpine, the ability to secrete tears (lacrimal flow) was determined. Observation of the ocular surface after pilocarpine stimulation revealed increased serous transparent tear secretion in the normal control and bioengineered lacrimal gland-engrafted mice, and increased amounts of turbid fluid were found in the bioengineered harderian gland-engrafted mice ([Fig. 4a](#f4){ref-type="fig"}). The flow of tears after pilocarpine exposure was significantly increased in the mice with bioengineered lacrimal glands compared with lacrimal gland-defect mice, and there was no significant difference between the tear flow of mice with bioengineered lacrimal glands and that of the normal control mice. In addition, the anticholinergic agent atropine inhibited this effect ([Fig. 4b](#f4){ref-type="fig"}). Lacrimation, which increases in response to mechanical, chemical and cooling stimulations to the ocular surface, has an important role in lacrimal gland function[@b30][@b31][@b32][@b33]. We next determined that bioengineered lacrimal glands could secret tears in response to cooling stimulation using menthol[@b33]. The tear flow from an engrafted bioengineered lacrimal gland after ocular-surface stimulation using menthol increased in line with that of the normal control mice ([Fig. 4c,d](#f4){ref-type="fig"}). These findings indicated that bioengineered lacrimal glands received appropriate neural signals and had a secretory ability equivalent to that of the natural lacrimal glands. Next, we determined whether the tear fluid secreted from the bioengineered lacrimal glands contained the appropriate tear proteins, such as lactoferrin, which have an essential role in tear function. Tear-protein analysis revealed that the major bands, including lactoferrin, were detected in the tear fluid from bioengineered lacrimal glands ([Fig. 4e,f](#f4){ref-type="fig"}). These results indicated that the bioengineered lacrimal gland had the ability to secrete tears containing tear proteins comparable to those of natural tears. We also analysed whether the tear fluid secreted from bioengineered harderian glands contained lipids such as alkyl triglycerides using reverse-phased liquid chromatography (LC) coupled with electrospray ionization (ESI)-quadrapole/time of flight hybrid mass spectrometry (QTOF-MS). The average±s.e.m of the concentrations of alkyl triglycerides in tear fluid secreted from control, bioengineered lacrimal and bioengineered harderian glands were 2.7±0.6 × 10^5^ counts per second (CPS) μl^−1^, 4.5±0.8 × 10^5^ CPS μl^−1^ and 5.5±1.0 × 10^7^ CPS μl^−1^, respectively ([Fig. 4g](#f4){ref-type="fig"}). These findings indicated that bioengineered harderian glands could secrete the appropriate lipids. These results demonstrated that bioengineered lacrimal and harderian glands had functional secretory ability under appropriate neural control.
Bioengineered lacrimal gland protects the ocular surface
--------------------------------------------------------
The goal of lacrimal gland-regenerative therapy is the restoration of an impaired ocular surface caused by DED. Tear loss from lacrimal gland dysfunction is a well-known cause of significant damage to the corneal epithelium. To determine the area of impaired corneal epithelium, fluorescein staining of the ocular surface was performed as previously described[@b34]. We investigated whether bioengineered lacrimal glands could protect the health of the ocular surface. The area of impaired corneal epithelium in bioengineered lacrimal gland-engrafted mice was significantly reduced compared with that of lacrimal gland-defect mice, and there was no significant difference between the areas of impaired corneal epithelium of bioengineered lacrimal gland-transplantation mice and those of normal control mice ([Fig. 5a](#f5){ref-type="fig"}). Chronic tear loss has been shown to cause corneal epithelial thinning in dry-eye animal models[@b35][@b36][@b37]. Therefore, we next analysed whether the corneal thickness was maintained in the bioengineered lacrimal gland mice. The thickness of the corneal epithelium significantly decreased within 60 days after surgery in the lacrimal gland-defect mice, whereas the corneal thickness of bioengineered lacrimal gland-engrafted mice was equivalent to that of the normal control mice ([Fig. 5b](#f5){ref-type="fig"}). These results indicate that our bioengineered lacrimal gland could successfully develop and achieve full lacrimal gland function and maintain a healthy ocular surface.
Discussion
==========
In this study, we successfully demonstrated that a bioengineered lacrimal gland replacement could restore the physiological functions of the lacrimal gland, including the production of a sufficient volume of tears and the protection of the ocular surface, via duct integration of an orthotopic engraftment of a bioengineered lacrimal gland germ into an adult extra-orbital lacrimal gland-defect model mouse, a model that mimics the ocular-surface damage of DED. These findings indicate that bioengineered lacrimal gland replacement via engraftment of a bioengineered lacrimal gland germ can restore lacrimal gland function.
The regeneration of lacrimal gland function is critical for developing a curative therapy for DED[@b17]. To develop tissue regeneration for salivary gland impairment using stem/progenitor cells[@b38][@b39], tissue stem cells were identified from mice with salivary glands damaged by various phenomena, including radiation[@b25], duct obstruction[@b23] and cytokine injection[@b40]. Nestin- and Ki67-positive stem/progenitor cells capable of repairing interleukin-1-induced inflammation in murine-lacrimal glands[@b41] and cells expressing stem cell markers such as c-kit, ABCG2 and ALDH1 in cultures of human lacrimal gland cells[@b42] have been identified for tissue regeneration using stem cell transplantation. In contrast, we have proposed a novel approach for bioengineered organ replacement to restore organ function by the engraftment of a bioengineered organ germ *in vivo*[@b27][@b29][@b43]. In the present study, we further demonstrated that our organ-germ methods could be applied to not only teeth and hair follicles but also to secretory organs such as lacrimal and harderian glands. Bioengineered lacrimal and harderian gland germs, which were engrafted into extra-orbital lacrimal gland-defect model mice, developed *in vivo* into acini and duct with correct cell polarity including AQP5 expression. The bioengineered glands, the epithelial layers of which had extended along the guide to the recipient's lacrimal excretory duct epithelium, secreted tears and lipids from the recipient's excretory duct. Thus, these bioengineered lacrimal and harderian gland organ replacements have the potential to restore the function of impaired glands by ectopic or orthotopic engraftment of their bioengineered germs.
In the lacrimal and harderian glands, the acini and ductal system, which is the functional unit of secretory organs, such as the lacrimal glands, salivary glands and pancreas, has an important role in physiological secretion[@b2] through interaction with the surrounding tissues, including connective myoepithelial cells and nerve fibres. The 3D histo-architecture of these glands is achieved by the differentiation of various cell types and by the branching morphogenesis that occurs during organogenesis[@b44][@b45][@b46]. In organ regeneration by orthotopic transplantation of a bioengineered organ germ, which can reproduce the developmental process during embryogenesis, the bioengineered tooth or hair-follicle organ can establish interactions between connective tissues, such as the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone in the tooth or the arrector pili muscles in the hair follicle, and nerve fibres[@b28][@b29][@b47]. Lacrimation in response to noxious stimulation of the ocular surface is important for ocular-surface protection and the functioning of the lacrimal gland[@b30][@b31]. Cooling stimulation of the ocular surface induced lacrimation via a neural pathway initiated by the activation of corneal cool cells[@b33]. Our current study demonstrated that bioengineered lacrimal and harderian gland germs, which reproduce their developmental process, could develop by engraftment with integrated myoepithelial cells and nerves *in vivo* and then secrete tears in response to ocular surface stimulation using menthol. Our findings indicated that the bioengineered lacrimal gland could reconstruct a 3D secretory system that was integrated into the recipient's tissues.
The tear film, which is composed of lipid, aqueous and mucin layers, has many physiological functions and serves as a mechanical and antimicrobial barrier to protect the ocular surface and to ensure an optically refractive surface[@b3]. The aqueous component contains electrolytes, water and various proteins, including peptides and glycoproteins, and is secreted primarily by the lacrimal glands. The tear proteins, including lactoferrin, the main tear protein produced by the lacrimal gland, have an essential role in tear function, which includes tear stability, moisturization, wound healing and antibiotic effects[@b2][@b3][@b4]. To restore tear function, albumin[@b48] and autologous serum[@b49] have been pursued as tear substitutes for severe ocular-surface disorders. In our study, we demonstrated that the tear fluid secreted from bioengineered lacrimal glands contained major tear proteins, including lactoferrin, that are almost identical to those found in natural tears. These bioengineered glands also protected the ocular surface from damage in the lacrimal gland-defect mouse model. Tear lipids are another critical component necessary for tear function, and these lipids stabilize tears and prevent evaporation[@b15]. Dysfunction of the lipid-secretory organs, such as the meibomian gland in humans and the harderian gland in mice[@b6], causes DED[@b50], and a supplemental lipid treatment has been reported to improve meibomian gland dysfunction[@b51]. Our findings suggested that a bioengineered harderian gland could supply a significant amount of alkyl TG in the tear lipids by ectopic engraftment in our experimental model. The analysis of those components such as detail minor proteins in the tears from bioengineered glands would provide useful information, including tear stability, antimicrobial effect and barrier function, for the restoration of physiological tear function by organ regeneration.
In conclusion, the current study provides novel evidence for the successful replacement of a fully functional lacrimal gland via engraftment of a bioengineered germ to restore full lacrimal gland function. Further studies on the identification of stem cells, including adult tissue stem cells, embryonic stem cells and inductive pluripotent stem cells, as cell sources for bioengineered lacrimal and harderian gland germs will contribute to the development of lacrimal gland organ regeneration. It is also essential to study the potential clinical application of these therapies, including the successful orthotopic or ectopic engraftment of the bioengineered organ germ into diseased conditions such as inflammation, Sjogren's syndrome, ocular cicatricial pemphigoid and aging in humans in the future.
Methods
=======
Animals
-------
C57BL/6 mice were purchased from Japan SLC Inc. (Shizuoka, Japan). CL57BL/6-TgN (act-EGFP) OsbC14-Y01-FM131 and B6.Cg-Tg (CAG-DsRed\*MST) 1Nagy/J mice were obtained from SLC Inc. and the RIKEN Bioresource Centre (Tsukuba, Japan), respectively. R26-H2B-EGFP KI mice were kindly provided by Professor Fujimori, National Institute for Basic Biology (Aichi, Japan). The care and handling of the animals were performed in accordance with the NIH guidelines. All of the experimental protocols were approved by the Animal Care and Use Committee of the Tokyo University of Science.
Reconstitution of bioengineered gland germs with single cells
-------------------------------------------------------------
Lacrimal gland germs and harderian gland germs isolated from embryonic day-16.5 male and -female mice were treated with 50 U ml^−1^ dispase (BD, Franklin Lakes, NJ, USA) for 1.5 min at room temperature. Epithelial and mesenchymal tissues were separated. The epithelial tissues were treated twice with 100 U ml^−1^ collagenase I (Worthington, Lakewood, NJ, USA) in Ca^2+^- and Mg^2+^-phosphate-buffered saline (PBS(−)) at 37 °C for 10 min, treated with 0.25% trypsin (Sigma, St. Louis, MO, USA) in PBS(−) for 5 min at 37 °C and then dissociated into single epithelial cells by gentle pipetting. Mesenchymal single cells were prepared by treatment with PBS(−) supplemented with 0.25% trypsin and 50 U ml^−1^ collagenase I at 37 °C for 10 min. Single epithelial and mesenchymal cells were precipitated by centrifugation, and the supernatants were removed. The bioengineered gland germs were reconstituted using our previously described 3D cell-manipulation method[@b43]. Briefly, mesenchymal cells were injected into collagen drop using micropipette. Subsequently, epithelial cells were injected into the same collagen drop adjacent to the mesenchymal cell aggregate. To induce interepithelial tissue connections between the host lacrimal excretory duct and the bioengineered germs, a PGA monofilament thread guide (9-0 PGA absorbable surgical suture: Gunze, Kyoto, Japan) was appended to a bioengineered germ by inserting the guide through the epithelial and mesenchymal portions. Bioengineered germs were placed on a cell-culture insert (0.4 μm pore diameter, BD) and incubated at 37 °C for 3 days in DMEM/F-12 (1:1 mixture of Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium and Ham's F-12; Kohjin Bio, Saitama, Japan) supplemented with 10% foetal bovine serum (GIBCO, Grand Island, NY, USA), 100 U ml^−1^ penicillin (Sigma) and 100 μg ml^−1^ streptomycin.
Engraftment procedure of bioengineered transplant
-------------------------------------------------
To prepare the lacrimal gland-defect model mice, the extra-orbital lacrimal gland of 7-week-old C57BL/6 female mice was extracted under deep anaesthesia. Then, the bioengineered gland germ was engrafted into the lacrimal gland-defect model mouse. A PGA monofilament was inserted into the host lacrimal excretory duct, and collagen gel containing the bioengineered germ was sutured to the massetermuscle with 8-0 nylon thread (8-0 black nylon 4 mm 1/2R, Bear Medic Corp., Ibaraki, Japan).
Dye injection for the analysis of the duct connection
-----------------------------------------------------
Thirty, or fourteen days after surgery, 6 mg ml^−1^ Evans blue dye (Sigma) or FITC (Dojindo, Kumamoto, Japan)-conjugated gelatin was injected into the host lacrimal duct using a FemtoJet microinjector (Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany) under a SteREO Lumar V12 microscope (Carl Zeiss, Oberkochen, Germany).
Immunohistochemical analysis
----------------------------
For fluorescence immunohistochemistry, the tissues were fixed in Mildform 10 N (Wako, Osaka, Japan) overnight at 4 °C, and frozen sections (10 and 100 μm) were prepared and immunostained. The primary antibodies were as follows: E-cadherin (1:50, mouse, BD); AQP5 (1:100, rabbit, Millipore, Billerica, MA, USA); calponin (1:250, rabbit, Abcam, Cambridge, MA, USA); and neurofilament-H (1:500, rat, Millipore) diluted in blocking solution (PBS(−) containing 1% bovine serum albumin and 0.01% TX-100). The primary antibodies were detected using highly cross-absorbed Alexa Fluor 594 Goat Anti-Rabbit IgG (H+L) (1:500, Life Technologies, Carlsbad, CA, USA) and Alexa Fluor 488 Goat Anti-Rat IgG (H+L) (1:500, Life Technologies) for 1 h at room temperature together with Hoechst 33342 dye (1:500, Life Technologies). Fluorescence microscopy images were obtained using a laser confocal microscope (LSM780; Carl Zeiss). To detect lactoferrin, 5-μm-thick paraffin sections were treated with rabbit polyclonal antiserum directed against lactoferrin (1:200, Millipore) as the primary antibody and a biotinylated goat anti-rabbit secondary antibody (Histofine Kit; Nichirei Bio, Tokyo, Japan). Immunoreactivity was detected using streptavidin--peroxidase (Nichirei Bio) and 3,3′-diaminobenzidine (Millipore). The sections were counterstained using hematoxylin and observed using an Axioimager A1 microscope (Carl Zeiss).
Oil-red O staining
------------------
Frozen sections were washed with propylene glycol for 3 min and then soaked in Oil-Red O (Sigma) staining solution for 30 min. The sections were counterstained with hematoxylin and observed using an Axioimager A1 microscope (Carl Zeiss).
Collection and measurement of tear-fluid secretion volume
---------------------------------------------------------
Tears were collected from the eyelid margin without touching the eye using a 0.5-μl micropipette (Drummond Scientific, PA, USA) 20 min after stimulation by intraperitoneal injection of 300 μg of pilocarpine kg^−1^ body weight under anaesthesia, or after ocular surface stimulation by 0.1 μM menthol (Sigma) without anaesthesia. The mice were placed in a modified DecapiCone restraint (MDC-200; Braintree Scientific, Braintree, MA) with sufficient acclimation. Following baseline measurements, 10 μl of 0.1 mM menthol were applied directly to the ocular surface with a micropipette. After 2 min, the fluid was wicked away with a Kimwipe (Fisher Scientific, Pittsburgh, PA) by lightly touching the tear meniscus at the lateral canthus. The tear was collected 15 min after removal of the fluid[@b33].
Tear-protein analysis
---------------------
A 0.25-μl aliquot of tear fluid from natural or bioengineered glands and a 0.4-ng sample of recombinant lactoferrin (kindly provided by Dr Morishita, Lion Corp., Tokyo, Japan) were subjected to 10% SDS-PAGE. The proteins were visualized using SYPRO orange protein gel stain (Life Technologies) for 30 min. The proteins were transferred on polyvinylidene difluoride membranes using a semidry transblot system (Bio-Rad, Philadelphia, PA, USA). Western blotting was performed by standard procedures using an antibody against mouse lactoferrin (1:10,000, Millipore) and peroxidase-conjugated donkey anti-rabbit IgG (1:10,000, Jackson ImmunoResearch Laboratories, West Grove, PA, USA) diluted in Can Get Signal Immunoreaction Enhancer Solution (Toyobo, Osaka, Japan). The immunoreactive proteins were detected using the ECL plus Western Blotting Detection Kit (Roche, Basel, Switzerland). Images were captured using a Luminescent Image Analyzer LAS-3000 (Fujifilm, Tokyo, Japan) and processed with Multi Gauge software (Fujifilm).
Tear-lipid analysis
-------------------
Total lipids were extracted from 1 μl of tear with 100 μl of methanol containing internal standards for 2.5 h at room temperature and centrifuged (2,000 × *g*) for 5 min at room temperature[@b52]. The collected supernatants were dried under a gentle stream of nitrogen and re-dissolved with 100 μl of acetonitrile/methanol/water (1:1:3; v/v/v). Reversed-phase (LC) separation was performed with an ACQUITY UPLC HSS T3 column (50 × 2.1 mm i.d., Waters Corporation, Milford, MA, USA) at 45 °C. The mobile phase was prepared by mixing the solvents acetonitrile/methanol/water (1:1:3; v/v/v) (5 mM ammonium formate) and isopropanol (5 mM ammonium formate). The mobile phase was pumped at a flow rate of 300 μl min^−1^. LC/ESI-MS analysis was performed using a TripleTOF 5600, QTOF-MS (AB SCIEX, Foster City, CA, USA) with an Agilent 1290 Infinity LC system (Agilent Technologies, Loveland, CO, USA) in the positive ion mode[@b53]. The parameter settings were as follows: 5.5 kV for the ion-spray voltage floating, 500 °C for the ion-source temperature, 10 V for the collision energy and *m/z* 100--1,250 for the scan range.
Calculation of impaired corneal epithelial area
-----------------------------------------------
Fluorescein staining of the corneal epithelium was used as a diagnostic tool to study the effect of desiccating stress on the ocular surface of the mice. Using a micropipette, 0.7 μl of 2.5% fluorescein (Sigma) was applied to the inferior conjunctival sac of the eye[@b54]. The punctuate staining pattern on the corneal surface was photographed using a SteREO Lumar V12 microscope (Carl Zeiss). The area of punctate staining within a radius of 2.5 mm in the central corneal zone of each eye was measured using Imaris software (Bitplane, Zurich, Switzerland).
Histochemical analysis of corneal epithelial thickness
------------------------------------------------------
The eyeballs were dissected, fixed in Mildform 10 N (Wako) and processed for standard paraffin embedding, and 5-μm sagittal sections were obtained. The tissue sections were stained with hematoxylin--eosin and observed using an Axioimager A1 microscope (Carl Zeiss). The thickness of the corneal epithelium of the central cornea was measured using the AxioVision software (Carl Zeiss).
Statistical analysis
--------------------
We presented data as the mean±s.e.m. We used two-tailed Student\'s *t*-tests to determine *P*-values for statistical significance.
Author contributions
====================
T.T., K.T., T.K. and M.H. designed the research plan; M.H., M.O., Y.S., K.Y. and K.I. performed the experiments; M.H., S.S. and M. Oshima developed new assay methods and discussed the results; M.H., Y.S., K.I., K.Y. and M.O. analysed the data; and M.H. and T.T. wrote the paper.
Additional information
======================
**How to cite this article:** Hirayama, M. *et al*. Functional lacrimal gland regeneration by transplantation of a bioengineered organ germ. *Nat. Commun.* 4:2497 doi: 10.1038/ncomms3497(2013).
This research was supported by Organ Technologies Inc. We thank M. Kihira for assistance with image analysis.
{#f1}
{#f2}
{#f3}
{#f4}
{#f5}
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Central"
}
|
TOMORROW, tuesday july 23!!! 1-3PM. live on air and online. Our program will feature a look at present authoritarian leanings in USA . As counterpoint, we will go in depth at a regional solution to economic and social issues using our largest state, California, as our test subject.
Our featured guest is Marcus Ruiz Evans, born in Fresno, CA to a European American father employed as a mechanical engineer, and a Mexican American mother employed as an information technology professional. Evans gained experience as a liaison between the California state government and the U.S. federal government involved in the distribution of federal transportation grants to the
infrastructural needs of various regions throughout the state. He has worked directly in state offices located in the San Francisco Bay Area, the Sacramento Valley, the San Joaquin Valley and the Inland Empire. Professionally familiar with the ongoing status and needs of California's infrastructure and transportation systems, Evans is additionally experienced in statewide goods movement efficiency and international freight system operations. links to a couple of Marcus Evans YouTube vids:
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
5173 Gary McMasters Road,
Liberty,
NC
27298
JUST LISTED! Incredible property with just over 21 acres with beautiful log home. Perfect mini farm location where you can bring your horses! Home features vaulted ceilings, pine flooring, huge great room and kitchen with island. Out buildings, greenhouse, fenced pasture, horse stalls and storage sheds on the property. This property is ready to move right in and start your gardening or farming. This property has breathtaking views off the huge front porch. Privacy abounds in this secluded dream home!
Get To Know Liberty, NC
This advertisement does not suggest that the broker has a listing or has done a transaction in this property or properties, nor does it suggest, directly or indirectly that the advertising broker was involved in the transaction.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
Weed 911: Who to Call When the Cops Knock
Though medical marijuana is legal in California, it is still a crime under Federal Law. Further, many cash-strapped local jurisdictions have ordinances on how medical marijuana can be grown and shared. This makes for a perfect storm of Fed cash funding local task forces to bust patients like you. You, your home, your assets, and your freedom are all targets for a Multi-Agency Drug Task Force.
Patients, caregivers, collectives, and cultivators need to prepare themselves for WHEN, not IF, the law will come knocking. You have rights. Make sure your staff and patients are aware of their rights and establish a policy to follow them. Run drills role-playing scenarios so your patients and staff are truly prepared for the oftentimes harsh treatment that they will suffer at the hands of raiding law enforcement.
What should you do when Law Enforcement shows up at your home or collective?
Here is a higher resolution PDF of the Search Warrant Rights sign.
The Search Warrant
A search warrant is issued by a judge based on the evidence presented by law enforcement. The Judge will have seen witness statements and other evidence. A warrant is the result of the Judge finding probable cause that a crime is being committed at a location, and that evidence of the crime will be found on the premises. A search warrant means cops are there to try to arrest someone. Everything you say and do once the police arrive can and WILL be used against you. Be careful, be safe.
If law enforcement agents claim to have a search warrant, you must let them in. They do not need to show it to you. They will break your door down if you do not open it.
Writing and executing search warrants are often complicated procedures and prone to error. To cover their bases, cops will present the warrant, and then ask, “Mind if we look around?” This is a trick to get your consent for a search. Always tell them that you do not consent to a search, even though the warrant gives them permission. “I DO NOT CONSENT TO A SEARCH“
Let them in, be polite and professional. Do not try to explain the situation. Do not describe what you do there. There is no “mistake” to clear up. The police are there to send someone to jail. Do not make their job easier. You must identify yourself and answer basic booking questions like DOB and address. Otherwise, say nothing. “I CHOOSE TO REMAIN SILENT“
At this point, investigators are looking around, rummaging through your effects, and seizing “evidence.” Law enforcement will seize your medicine and inventory, they will destroy your plants, and they will take your computers and cash. Do not interfere with them, and have your attorney ask for an inventory of what was taken. You should keep digital backups of your papers and records remotely, perhaps saved on a Cloud Drive. If you have privileged documents, such as attorney-client communications, they should be stored separately and clearly identified. By now you should have called your attorney. “I WOULD LIKE TO CALL MY ATTORNEY IMMEDIATELY”
An experienced criminal defense attorney will help protect you and your rights. An attorney will make sure the search warrant was properly issued and executed, though judges nowadays are loathe to ever second guess law enforcement, let alone overturn them. If you are arrested, the attorney will defend your status as a patient or caregiver with law enforcement, and also defend the documents, recommendations, and records establishing your legality. Discussing your medical recommendations or caregiver status with law enforcement will only help them build their case against you. For example, if you say: “But I have a recommendation to grow these plants,” the DA will present that to the jury as your confession for producing a controlled substance. Let your attorney do the talking.
Here is a sign created by Tully and Weiss for easy reference of your rights during a search warrant:
For your safety, and that of your staff and patients, consider posting this Search Warrant guidelines sign near the door of your home or establishment.
Here is a higher resolution PDF of the Search Warrant Rights sign.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "OpenWebText2"
}
|
huxiu.com is worth $ 1,764,720.00
3.75Rating by CuteStatLite
huxiu.com was registered 1 decade 8 years ago. It has a alexa rank of #5,005 in the world. It is a domain having .com extension. This site has a Google PageRank of 6/10. It is estimated worth of $ 1,764,720.00 and have a daily income of around $ 1,634.00. As no active threats were reported recently, huxiu.com is SAFE to browse.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
hat is h(p)?
1
Let t(o) = 23*o**2 - 2*o + 64. Let w(h) = -27*h**2 + h - 76. Let a(n) = 7*t(n) + 6*w(n). Let u(i) = i**2 - 9*i + 7. Let v be u(7). Determine a(v).
-1
Let t(c) = 4*c - 4. Let p be t(3). Let a(k) = 3 + 9581*k + 3 - 4 - 7 - 9580*k + 2. What is a(p)?
5
Let w(o) be the third derivative of o**6/120 + 7*o**5/60 + o**4/4 - 2*o**3/3 - 3*o**2. Let y(t) = -t**3 - 5*t**2 + 6*t - 6. Let a be y(-6). Give w(a).
-4
Let r(o) be the first derivative of 2/3*o**3 + 3/2*o**2 + 1/4*o**4 + 22 - 6*o. Let q be r(0). Let l(g) = g**2 + 3*g - 7. What is l(q)?
11
Let m(y) = -2543 + 4952 - y + y**2 - 2484. Give m(0).
-75
Let b(n) = -5*n**3 - 13*n**2 - 14*n + 1. Let j(g) = -4*g**3 - 12*g**2 - 9*g + 2. Let q(z) = -3*b(z) + 4*j(z). What is q(-10)?
45
Suppose 0 = 2*s - 5*a + 21, s + 0*s - 17 = -3*a. Let h(u) = -7*u**2 - s*u - 7*u + 104*u**3 - 103*u**3 + 6. What is h(8)?
-2
Let y(b) be the first derivative of 138 + 1/2*b**2 + 0*b. What is y(0)?
0
Let v(l) = -28*l**3 - 12*l**2 + 17*l - 4. Let b(r) = -6*r**3 + 9 - 6*r**2 + 8*r - 11 - 7*r**3. Let k(o) = 13*b(o) - 6*v(o). Determine k(-6).
-14
Let r be (6 - 33/6)/((-2)/(-8)). Let i(y) = y**2 + 2*y**r + 3*y - 1542 + 1544 + y. Suppose 10 = 3*q - 8*q. Give i(q).
6
Let t(u) = 2475*u**2 - 4*u - 7 - 2482*u**2 + 36 - 2*u + 3*u + u**3. What is t(7)?
8
Let r be 0 + -2 + 1 + (-84)/(-12). Let z(u) = -u**3 - u**2 + 1. Let k be z(-4). Let i(x) = -k*x + 55*x + 0*x**2 - x**2 + 8. Determine i(r).
8
Let k(b) = 0 - 1 + 0*b + 0 + b**3 - b - 5*b**2. Let x = -9 + 11. Suppose x*w - 1 = o, -3*o - 19 = -5*o - 3*w. What is k(o)?
-6
Let x(c) = 82 + 3*c - 206 + 155 - c**2. Calculate x(9).
-23
Let o be (-3)/(-5) - 17/(-5). Let k(m) = -18 - 6*m**2 - o*m**3 + 14 + 3*m**3 + 8*m**2 + 5*m. Determine k(4).
-16
Suppose -2*g - 3*g = 5, -5*u + 3*g = 27. Let b(r) be the third derivative of -r**5/60 - 7*r**4/24 - r**3/3 + 228*r**2 + 3. Determine b(u).
4
Let f(c) = -3*c**3 + 6*c**2 - 5*c + 7. Suppose 0 = -7*q - 80 + 87. Let r(b) = -2*b**3 + b**2 - b + 1. Let z(g) = q*f(g) - 6*r(g). Determine z(-1).
-9
Let a(p) = 10*p**2 - 23*p**2 + 12*p**2 + 4*p**2 + p - 2 + 0. Suppose 4*o + 24 = 4*c, -3*o = -4*c + 18 + 2. Suppose 1 = c*z - 3. Determine a(z).
12
Suppose 32*d - 105 = -25*d + 123. Let g(v) be the third derivative of 0*v - 1/6*v**3 + 0 + 1/24*v**6 - 1/30*v**5 + 1/12*v**d - 7*v**2. What is g(1)?
4
Let d(v) be the third derivative of v**7/60 - v**6/360 + v**5/120 - 22*v**3 - 119*v**2. Let j(i) be the first derivative of d(i). Calculate j(1).
14
Let a(r) = -143*r**2 - 279*r - 211. Let y(z) = 7*z**2 + 14*z + 10. Let f(x) = 2*a(x) + 41*y(x). Calculate f(-16).
-12
Let d be ((-385)/15 - 30/(-18) - 6) + 6. Let r(h) = -6*h - 157. Determine r(d).
-13
Let o(c) = 413*c**2 + 417*c**2 + 25*c + 414*c**2 + 3 + 402*c**2 - 1645*c**2. Give o(-25).
3
Let u(y) = -y**2 + 17*y - 3. Let v = 8543 - 8526. What is u(v)?
-3
Let p(a) = a**3 - 9*a**2 + 8*a - 5. Let q(f) = f**3 + 4*f**2 - 15*f - 10. Let s be q(-6). Calculate p(s).
-5
Let z(j) = -2*j**3 - 51 + j**2 + 3*j**3 - 25 + 75. Suppose 0 = 2*a - 4. Suppose 4*r = -r + 2*w + 2, -r + a*w = -2. Determine z(r).
-1
Let n(c) be the third derivative of c**5/60 + c**4/8 + c**3/6 - 11*c**2. Let x(a) = a**2 - 5*a - 3. Let f be x(6). Let q be ((-2)/f)/(6/18). What is n(q)?
-1
Let r(h) = -h**2 + 5*h. Suppose 7*b - 36 = -2*b. Suppose -b*y - 3 = -11. Suppose 5*i - 4*i = -y*l + 15, -3*l = -2*i - 12. Determine r(l).
-6
Let z(i) = -391*i**2 - 558*i**2 + 952*i**2 - 5*i + 36. What is z(6)?
114
Suppose 2*v - 1157*o - 46 = -1159*o, -52 = -4*v + 4*o. Let s(u) = -4*u**2 + 70*u + 27. Calculate s(v).
-9
Let f(j) = -5*j + 1. Let y(h) = -4*h + 1. Let c(b) = -3*f(b) + 4*y(b). Suppose 180*a + 1300 + 362 = -374*a. Determine c(a).
4
Let z = -4599 + 4601. Let a(s) = s**3 - 4*s**2 + 3*s + 2. Determine a(z).
0
Let i(y) be the first derivative of -1293*y + 15 + 0 + 3*y**2 + 1 + 1292*y. Determine i(2).
11
Suppose -511*w + 507*w = -1240. Let x(b) = 0 - 2 - 312*b**2 + w*b**2 - 5*b - 3. Calculate x(-5).
-30
Let f(o) = -o**3 - 10*o**2 - 8*o - 7. Suppose -4*j = -8*j - 3*g + 17, 0 = j + g - 4. Let y(m) = m**2 + 7*m - 69. Let z be y(j). Give f(z).
-16
Let n(f) = f**2 - 6*f + 5. Let j = -104 - -107. Let y(i) = -j*i + 16 + 51 + 25*i - 12*i. Let p be y(-6). Give n(p).
12
Let m(g) = -5*g - 10. Let u(t) = 7*t**2 - 12*t**2 + 6*t**2 - 5*t + 3. Let f be u(3). What is m(f)?
5
Let n(i) be the third derivative of -i**5/60 + 5*i**3/3 - 2488*i**2. Calculate n(-4).
-6
Let x(t) be the first derivative of -2*t**3/3 + t**2 - 3*t - 5. Let z(s) = 2 + 4*s**2 - s**2 - 3*s**2 + 4*s + 2*s**2. Let w be z(-2). Calculate x(w).
-7
Let f(t) = 8*t + 9. Let o(g) = 300*g + 11400. Let c be o(-38). Give f(c).
9
Let j(p) = 55*p + 490. Let b = -5435 + 5426. What is j(b)?
-5
Let x(i) = -3*i**2 + i + 2. Let v(t) be the first derivative of -t**3/3 + 5*t**2 - 2*t + 49. Let g be v(10). Give x(g).
-12
Let w(j) = j + 19. Let r = -73 - -56. Let i be w(r). Let q(o) = -3 - 5*o + i*o**2 + 16*o**3 - 1 - 15*o**3. Determine q(-3).
2
Let p = -332 + 336. Suppose -p*c = 8*c + 48. Let w(m) = -2 - 2*m**3 - 5*m**2 + m**3 + 7 - 2*m. Determine w(c).
-3
Let j(l) = 3*l + 40. Let k be j(-6). Suppose -k*n + 28 = -16. Let p(z) = 21*z + 1. Determine p(n).
43
Let b(f) = -13*f - 8*f**2 + 248 - 2*f**3 + 249 + f**3 + 253 - 767. Determine b(-5).
-27
Let s(d) = 474 - 5*d - 11*d - 7*d - 481. Calculate s(-6).
131
Let y(a) = -5*a**3 - 5*a**2 - 11*a - 3. Let m(x) = -2*x**3 - 4*x**2 - 8*x - 3. Let q(l) = -3*m(l) + 2*y(l). Determine q(-2).
39
Let y be 9/((-126)/(-4)) - (-18)/(-63). Let h be ((-9)/2)/(1/(-2)). Suppose y = h*l - l - 16. Let q(d) = -d**2 + 3*d - 2. Determine q(l).
0
Let u(w) = 3*w - 226*w**2 - 205*w**2 + 442*w**2. Calculate u(-2).
38
Let f be (-10)/8*(0 - -4). Let r(n) = -n**3 - 4*n**2 + 4*n - 11. Give r(f).
-6
Let r(g) be the second derivative of -g**3/3 - 2*g**2 - 2*g + 68. Suppose -2*p + d + 3 = -4*p, -5*d + 18 = -p. Give r(p).
2
Let j be 104/6 + 2/(-6). Let i(h) be the second derivative of h**4/12 - 17*h**3/6 - h**2/2 + 413*h + 3. What is i(j)?
-1
Let g = 11 + -8. Let b(n) = -315*n + 16. Let w(v) = -1299*v + 65. Let c(z) = -66*b(z) + 16*w(z). Give c(g).
2
Suppose 39*s = 737 - 464. Let j(w) = 2*w - 28. Let f(n) = -n + 14. Let i(u) = 11*f(u) + 6*j(u). Calculate i(s).
-7
Let b = 221920 + -221926. Let p(o) = -4*o**2 + 11*o + 1. Let h(a) = -5*a**2 + 12*a + 2. Suppose 3*v - 17 - 1 = 0. Let x(d) = v*p(d) - 5*h(d). Give x(b).
-4
Let i(t) be the second derivative of 195*t - 6*t**3 - 1/20*t**5 + 0 + 3/2*t**2 - 5/3*t**4. Calculate i(-18).
3
Let s(j) = j**2 + 10*j + 28. Let x be s(-6). Suppose 15 = -5*k - 5*o, k - 9 = 2*k + x*o. Let w(i) = 14*i**2 + i. Determine w(k).
13
Let i(o) = 30*o**2 - 1 + 10*o - 80*o**2 + 23*o**2 + 26*o**2 + 7. Suppose -2 = -3*l + 2*x + 25, 4*l + 4*x = 36. Determine i(l).
15
Let s be -3 + (-8)/(-28) + 19/7. Let x(g) = -285*g + 1 + 283*g + 3*g**2 + s. Give x(3).
22
Let u(o) = o**3 - 6*o**2 + 6*o - 3. Let s = 178 - 170. Suppose 4*x - 8 = 0, l + 2*x = 3*l - s. Calculate u(l).
33
Suppose 4*b = 14*b - 80. Suppose b*d = 6*d + 18. Let m(p) = -3*p + 11. Determine m(d).
-16
Let o(g) = -g**3 + 3*g**2 - g + 3. Let w(n) = -n**2 + 2*n + 3. Let r(v) = 3*v**2 - 5*v - 9. Let l(s) = -6*r(s) - 17*w(s). Let t be l(0). Determine o(t).
0
Let d(w) = -3*w**2 - 22*w - 20. Let g(c) = -4*c**2 - 48*c - 49. Let z be g(-11). Let p(j) = 2*j**2 + 12*j + 10. Let a(m) = z*p(m) - 3*d(m). What is a(8)?
-6
Let q(l) = -5*l - 50. Let v be q(-11). Suppose -3 = 2*x + v*g - 17, -4*g = -4*x. Let y(z) = 14*z - 3. Give y(x).
25
Let o be 6 - ((3 - 6) + (-7)/(-1)). Let w(d) = -3*d**3 - d + 2. Let n(a) = -5*a**3 - 6*a**2 - 11*a + 13. Let l(c) = o*w(c) - n(c). Give l(7).
5
Let d(p) = 2*p - 4. Let y be (-14 - 4/2) + (8 - 3). Let z be y/(-22) + 21/(-6). What is d(z)?
-10
Let b(q) = -q**2 + 18*q + 15. Let u = 5586 + -5567. What is b(u)?
-4
Suppose 6*u - 119 = -11*u + 102. Let y(t) = -t**3 + 12*t**2 + 13*t - 16. What is y(u)?
-16
Let g(t) be the second derivative of -11*t**3/6 + 3*t**2 - 201*t - 8. Give g(5).
-49
Suppose -i = 47 - 51. Let p(c) = i + c - 7 - 1 - 5. What is p(10)?
1
Let j(t) = -3*t**3 + 9*t**2 - 5*t - 8. Let m(w) = 7*w**3 - 20*w**2 + 11*w + 15. Let k(y) = 5*j(y) + 2*m(y). Let o be k(3). Let h(z) = 21*z - 1. Give h(o).
-22
Let t(k) = 17*k**2 - 3*k**2 - 1
|
{
"pile_set_name": "DM Mathematics"
}
|
Donate
We can’t all have the balls to hijack a plane, like DB Cooper. So we humbly ask for your support. If you like Kick Ass Oregon History, or if you are a fan of our Live Events and you’d like to see us do more, please consider donating to us.
Just click the button below and you’ll be guided to your PayPal account. It’s safe, secure and easy.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
Three-species competition with non-deterministic outcomes.
Theoretical and experimental research studies have shown that ecosystems governed by non-transitive competition networks tend to maintain high levels of biodiversity. The theoretical body of work, however, has mainly focused on competition networks in which the outcomes of competition events are predetermined and hence deterministic, and where all species are identical up to their competitive relationships, an assumption that may limit the applicability of theoretical results to real-life situations. In this paper, we aim to probe the robustness of the link between biodiversity and non-transitive competition by introducing a three-dimensional winning probability parameter space, making the outcomes of competition events in a three-species in silico ecosystem uncertain. While two degenerate points in this parameter space have been the subject of previous studies, we investigate the remaining settings, which equip the species with distinct competitive abilities. We find that the impact of this modification depends on the spatial dimension of the system. When the system is well mixed, it collapses to monoculture, as is also the case in the non-transitive deterministic setting. In one dimension, chaotic patterns emerge, which tend to maintain biodiversity, and a power law relates the time that species manage to coexist to the degree of uncertainty regarding competition event outcomes. In two dimensions, the formation of spiral wave patterns ensures that biodiversity is maintained for moderate degrees of uncertainty, while considerable deviations from the non-transitive deterministic setting have strong negative effects on species coexistence. It can hence be concluded that non-transitive competition can still produce coexistence when the assumption of deterministic competition is abandoned. When the system collapses to monoculture, one observes a "survival of the strongest" law, as the species that has the highest probability of defeating its competitors has the best odds to become the sole survivor.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Macclesfield Town have picked up more points in 10 games under Sol Campbell than they had in their opening 20 matches before his arrival
Macclesfield Town manager Sol Campbell says he has been surprised by a "really sad underbelly of abuse in football that has been left for far too long".
The Football Association is investigating claims that the 44-year-old was subjected to homophobic abuse during the Silkmen's visit to Cheltenham on Saturday.
Eleven games into his first job as manager, Campbell says he has faced abuse from opposing supporters on the terraces and at railway stations on his way home from games.
"I'm not even playing any more. I'm a manager. It's not like I've got anything against whoever I'm playing. I don't understand why there is animosity towards a manager who has got nothing to do with their club other than being the opposition," he said.
"I've just been a manager and I want to do my job."
Campbell played 73 times for England, three as captain, and won the Premier League twice with Arsenal, one of which was with the 'Invincibles' team of 2003-04.
How has Campbell been targeted in the past?
In 2001 Campbell became one of the first Premier League players to run down his contract to secure a free 'Bosman' transfer. He controversially moved from Tottenham to bitter rivals Arsenal. In 2018 he said he still gets abuse in the street from Spurs fans.
In his 2014 autobiography, Campbell claimed to have been subjected to monkey chants by fans as a young player.
Fans have often targeted Campbell with homophobic abuse. He is married to his wife and has three children. In 2014 he told the BBC: "It's archaic. They've almost got a blueprint of a 1970s footballer and if it deviates from that in any way, that's it. It's incredible."
He begins his managerial career four years after describing the lack of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) managers in English football as a "sad indictment" of the game.
"There are managers up and down this league who are well known through their career. There are other guys managing in the Championship or Scottish leagues who have had really good careers. Are they getting that sort of stick? I don't know.
"Maybe it's something else and it's not just me. At the lower levels things just get unchecked. The higher you go up there are more people checking these things and it gets reported.
"Sometimes money comes into it and people can't check everything but for me there is an underbelly which has to be looked at by the FA and the Football League."
'There have been fallouts' - Campbell on his managerial style
Macclesfield were five points adrift at the bottom of the English Football League when Campbell took charge
When Campbell was appointed Macclesfield manager in November, they were bottom of League Two, seven points from safety with just two wins from 19 league games.
Since then, they have won five of Campbell's 11 EFL games in charge, and while still in the relegation zone they are now just two points from safety.
"I had to change nearly everything. It's important to be open and honest and a lot of the guys had to get a reality check on a lot of things.
"At the beginning there was no anchor and they were drifting out to sea and not knowing where they'd end up.
"There were fallouts. Some people like it, some people don't like it but for me, I had to get the quickest way up the mountain.
"We were bottom of the league, all those points adrift and regardless of what they thought of me, I really haven't got time for that. I'm here to win games and they will see how I run the show and how I carry myself.
"I haven't proved anyone wrong. I haven't proved anyone right. Until the end of the season I haven't proved anything but the main thing is that we stay up. I'm really fighting to make that happen."
'I'm going to work my rear end off' - Campbell on fighting for his new career
Campbell says he wants to stay at Macclesfield as long as possible
Campbell says he is putting absolutely everything into his first managerial role, whilst balancing time with his family who are still in London.
Though Campbell jokes his children had never heard of Macclesfield before he took the job, the ex-Tottenham and Arsenal defender isn't planning on leaving Cheshire any time soon.
"The kids are really happy and they've come to a couple of games already. They've seen where daddy works and it's just about getting a place so they can spend more time up here."
Campbell, who also played for Portsmouth and Newcastle, has a Uefa Pro Licence, the highest coaching qualification available, which is mandatory for all first-team managers wishing to work in the Premier League, but Campbell isn't looking that far ahead.
When he was appointed at Macclesfield he said he submitted "at least 12-15 applications" as he sought that first role.
"It's all about getting this job done right and I want to stay here as long as possible. I'm totally focused and invested in this club," he said.
"I like where I'm living, I like the club, I like the owners, I like the people who are part of the club. I'm happy that the owner gave me a wonderful chance to manage his team and I'm eternally grateful for that and also the Macclesfield fans.
"I'm going to work my rear end off to really keep these guys up and at the same time enjoy it and play some good football. I've got to fight tooth and nail for my career, I have to work hard every day and that's what I'm doing here. This is my passion and people can't begrudge me fulfilling my passion."
|
{
"pile_set_name": "OpenWebText2"
}
|
Jew and Tefillin. By Tzvi Freeman
|
Tuesday 6 June 2017
You’re out on your lunch break, walking down a busy street, and some black-hatted, bearded young guy walks up to you on and says, “Hi, are you Jewish ?”Let’s say you say “Yes.”“Hey, you’d look great in black leather ! Roll up your left sleeve.”Before you’ve had a chance to decide whether you believe in this or not, what your dear mother would have to say, and whether this is really a normal thing to do in a place like this (it’s not), you’ve got black leather straps and boxes wrapped on your arm and head, your hand is over your eyes and you’re mumbling, “Shma Yisrael…”Or let’s say you say “No.” And you keep walking.But you’re thinking, “Why did I say no ? Am I Jewish or not Jewish ?”Either way, something has shifted inside. Your idea of what it means to be a Jew may be shifting, may be crumbling, or may even be experiencingSuddenly, you’re thinking, “What does it mean that I’m a Jew ?” a nascent emergence. After all, when was the last time you ever thought about your Jewishness ?And now all of a sudden you’re thinking, “What does it mean that I’m a Jew ?”We’ve had fifty years of such scenarios since the Tefillin campaign was launched—followed by the Shabbat candle campaign, and yet more, totalling ten mitzvah campaigns. Now it’s time we can consider how these guerilla-type, street tactics have changed the way we think about what it means to be a Jew.Paradigm ShmaradigmLet’s consider three classic models of Jewishness and Judaism. We’ll call them Religion, Affiliation, and Observance. Here’s how their dynamic works :Religion, says the general consensus, is about what you believe.Affiliation is about where you pay dues.Observance is about how much you do and don’t do.If there’s a tefillin campaign, being Jewish can’t be about religion. If there’s a tefillin campaign, being Jewish isn’t about religion. It’s about you.Neither can it be about affiliation. It’s not even about observance.Because if any Joe right off the street (and right there on the street) can be asked to wrap those leather boxes on his arm and head—whether he professes to believe in G‑d or is an avowed atheist, whether he stands for Israel or for BDS, whether he believes the narrative of the Jewish people or denies it or never even heard of it— just because he has a Jewish mother, then Judaism can’t be an ism, can’t be an ideology, can’t be a religion and certainly can’t be defined by membership dues.So what is it about ? It’s about you. You’re Jewish. So you’re in because you’re in. Done. Period. Let’s wrap.Basically, an identity thing. Identity first, action second (like leather boxes or Shabbat candles), and all this feeding into your mindset, which triggers yet more identity and more action.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
Affiliation: Department of Neuromedical Genetics, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, an institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences , Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
ABSTRACTDespite their physiological roles, Müller glial cells are involved directly or indirectly in retinal disease pathogenesis and are an interesting target for therapeutic approaches for retinal diseases and regeneration such as CRB1 inherited retinal dystrophies. In this study, we characterized the efficiency of adeno-associated virus (AAV) capsid variants and different promoters to drive protein expression in Müller glial cells. ShH10Y and AAV9 were the most powerful capsids to infect mouse Müller glial cells. Retinaldehyde-binding protein 1 (RLBP1) promoter was the most powerful promoter to transduce Müller glial cells. ShH10Y capsids and RLBP1 promoter targeted human Müller glial cells in vitro. We also developed and tested smaller promoters to express the large CRB1 gene via AAV vectors. Minimal cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter allowed expression of full-length CRB1 protein in Müller glial cells. In summary, ShH10Y and AAV9 capsids, and RLBP1 or minimal CMV promoters are of interest as specific tools to target and express in mouse or human Müller glial cells.
Affiliation:
Department of Neuromedical Genetics, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, an institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences , Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
ABSTRACTDespite their physiological roles, Müller glial cells are involved directly or indirectly in retinal disease pathogenesis and are an interesting target for therapeutic approaches for retinal diseases and regeneration such as CRB1 inherited retinal dystrophies. In this study, we characterized the efficiency of adeno-associated virus (AAV) capsid variants and different promoters to drive protein expression in Müller glial cells. ShH10Y and AAV9 were the most powerful capsids to infect mouse Müller glial cells. Retinaldehyde-binding protein 1 (RLBP1) promoter was the most powerful promoter to transduce Müller glial cells. ShH10Y capsids and RLBP1 promoter targeted human Müller glial cells in vitro. We also developed and tested smaller promoters to express the large CRB1 gene via AAV vectors. Minimal cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter allowed expression of full-length CRB1 protein in Müller glial cells. In summary, ShH10Y and AAV9 capsids, and RLBP1 or minimal CMV promoters are of interest as specific tools to target and express in mouse or human Müller glial cells.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
The English Golf Union (EGU) and Fuller’s London Pride, the official beer of the EGU, are once again looking for that extra special person who provides exceptional service at their golf club bar. The contest, which has become an event that is eagerly anticipated each year, aims to find the club steward or a bar person at the 19th hole who provides the most welcoming and enjoyable experience for golfers, be they members or visitors.
After the initial round of judging regional winners will be invited to a celebratory lunch that will be held in the autumn when England’s overall London Pride EGU Steward of the Year 2011 will be announced.
A great welcome in the clubhouse is one of golf’s many pleasures and golfers have voted in their thousands for those staff behind the bar who really do go out of their way to make their club special. Nomination forms have already been sent to all EGU clubs and golfers are also being encouraged to vote online at the EGU website.
David Spencer, Brands Marketing Manager for Fuller’s said, “We know that golfers don’t just appreciate the courses they play but also recognize the value of someone who provides a great welcome and great service in the clubhouse. Steward of the Year is all about appreciating and celebrating that extra special service.”
Last year’s winner, Andy Shaw from Southport Old Links, fought off tight competition to take the award. His ever-immaculate bar, committed staff and extensive charity work demonstrated that there are unsung heroes in clubhouses throughout England.
Whoever takes this year’s London Pride EGU Steward of the Year accolade will collect a pair of tickets to a day’s play at a Lords Test Match, complete with accommodation for two nights in a Fuller’s Central London Hotel.
In addition each regional winning club will receive a promotional pack, including logos and ‘ready-made’ advertisements highlighting their achievement that they can use in their own marketing literature or on their website. The overall London Pride EGU Club Steward of the Year 2011 will also win their club the opportunity to work with Fuller’s London Pride to create advertising for the club to promote their special status in local press.
Everyone who nominates a candidate for the award will go into a prize draw to win a case of London Pride and a London Pride rugby shirt.
Paul Keeling, EGU Club Services Manager added, “Service is becoming ever more important, from the moment a golfer drives into the car park until when he or she leave the clubhouse. We know the welcome visitors get at the end of a round can leave a lasting impression for and keeping members happy and content in their clubhouse both affect a club’s business. So we are delighted that our partnership with Fuller’s London Pride allows us to recognize and reward those that strive to deliver something a bit special.”
The London Pride EGU Steward of the Year is part of a five year deal between Fuller’s and the EGU which supports amateur golf and provides greater recognition to clubs and their members.
Enter the name of the person, place, organisation or topic for which you are searching. Use as many words as required - there is no need to enclose them in quotation marks. Prefixing a search term with a hyphen/minus-sign will exclude results matching that term.
For example 'artificial -turf' will return results containing 'artificial' but not 'turf'.
In each month and year listed below every article that has ever appeared in golfbusinessnews is reproduced in reverse date order.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
I'm trying to figure out what "core" of the Democratic Party even represents my values anymore.
See I value a fair economy where ordinary people unprotected by multi-millions of dollars to solve their every problem are protected from predators by a responsible regulatory government, where the people's money isn't recklessly handed to banks without accountability and despite their practice of fraud, deception and criminality. I thought Democrats did too.
I value Labor, as the only bargaining power available for many of not most working class individuals. I thought Democrats did too.
I value teachers, and I stand with teachers against the nonsensical meme that they are problem and not part of the solution to our education crisis. I thought Democrats did too.
I value unambiguous equality, and given that the Democratic party expects and demands the votes of LGBT people everywhere each year, I guess I sort of assumed the Democratic Party did too.
I value affordable health care for everyone, not less expensive insurance mandated for not everyone. Heath care and health insurance are not even close to the same things.
I stand for responsible energy and environmental policy that is not served by stealing the Republicans talking point of "DRILL BABY DRILL." And I could have sword that Democrats did too.
I value peace over wars of aggression. I value civil rights and oppose the Patriot Act, unregulated detention gulags like Gitmo or Bagram (which to my knowledge, will still be completely operational even if Gitmo ever does close, so what's the difference?) The Democratic Party appears to be fine with all of these things.
So seriously.... I guess I should just GTFO. Is that the deal? The "new" Democratic Party is actually stands for things completely different than what I do now?
Who decides what the Democratic party stands for anyway? Is it the handful of politicians we elect, is the the party "leaders?" Or is the millions of regular Americans who identify as Democrats.
Now we have a corporate monstrosity pretending to be a political party of the people. I ain't voting in the 2010 midterms, and if the Democrats get whupped, too bad for them. They should go back to their corporate buddies and collect more corruption money. Liberalism is dead in the Democratic party.
I will be voting, but I may skip many of the particular offices (including an open US Senate Seat here in MO). I am exceptionally displeased with the Democratic Party and it's move to the corporate right, but we still have a few local issues that I will vote upon and other such matters.
Then the Party can look at the election totals and make up their own mind.
I look at California and the problems are Gigantic. Yet all it would have taken for Geithner to have saved this state was to LOAN it half of the money that Geithner's cronies on Wall Street offered themselves as bonuses. Was that really too much to ask?
But we in California were denied that loan.
And whose money is it? It is ours - it shouldn't even be loaned - it should be given. Thirty million people live here - and we pay the Federal government year after year $ 1 for every 78 cents they give back to us.
I grew up way back in the day when Eisenhower's Generals came and told him about the importance of fighting a war in a place called Vietnam. And Eisenhower looked at the overall budget, and then he said, "Sorry Fellas, no can do. We are still paying off WWII and Korea."
Why is it so hard for the people at the top to understand that spending money on endless wars is NOT strengthening this nation, it is destroying it?
Doesn't seem to matter which party we vote in, they all like these wars.
5. The first time I voted was Clinton's first term, but have always been partial to Green/lefty indies
... over most Dems, who more often than not were more so aligned w/RWers and cons, policy wise. Which is to say I've always felt that, hypothetically, if the ship sank, and I'm treading water, the Greenies in their life boat are far more likely to pull me aboard after the Dems sail right on past
However, I've already decided that I won't be voting for the Dem because he/she is a Dem - I'm seriously considering 3rd party candidates, and in some cases, writing in someone who's better than those running, if there's no good candidate from any party.
Obama's corporatism is continuing the push to the center - it may soon be time for the left to abandon that centrist party and commit to moving to another party.
10. Unfortunately, the "less expensive insurance mandated" will prove to be MORE expensive.
Mandating purchase in the absence of effective cost controls is not a formula for reducing out of control costs.
Before his U-turn, Obama told us repeatedly a public plan was necessary to provide the competition needed to reduce costs.... Before his U-turn, he was right.
The CBO estimates that the (increasing number of) people forced into the individual market will experience a RISE in the rate of inflation in premiums, and that those in group plans will see their premiums rise at the same rate of premium inflation as if no bill had passed.....Both of these DESPITE the fact that decreasing the amount of uncompensated services to those without insurance was SUPPOSED to REDUCE prices.
14. in a simple answer..NO...every democratic principle has been shit on!
Edited on Thu Apr-01-10 12:09 PM by flyarm
busting teachersbusting teacher unions is filling our public schools administrators with military people!fucks us on health careoil drilling off our pristine coast linesthe eco system is fuckedour money has gone to the very fuckers who destroyed our economyThis pres hired Kissinger to represent his administration70,000 more soldiers sent to war zoneskeeps Gitmo opengives immunity to the telecoms who broke the laws of our constitutionre-authorized the Patriot actgave bailouts to the banks that fucked this nation and won't even loan us our own money!Gave us Romney care..and brags about it.Hedge fund managers made billions ..record numbers in 2009
did i miss anything????????
-look there is a pattern..the shadow government split the republican party under Bush..with posers ..with paid propagandists to shut up the Republican majority..-they are doing the same thing now with the democratic party..there are posers trying to shut us up, those of us with democratic values and prinicples...they tell us our principles and values are worthless..they do this with posers/propagandists...sleepers if you will....there is an absolute pattern..
don't forget this was brought up many times on DU during the Bush years..
I heard the same things from my republican friends..they would ask ..where has their party gone..people who were lifelong republicans ..that didn't do the bullshit crap, and weren't fundies or irrational people..they had no idea who was putting their interests on the back burner and destroying their party.
Same shit different party now..we have the same posers with the same M.O...they are trying to stop the flow of truth and information..silence the truth to power.
We must shut them up..we must expose the posers or we lose the party of our values and principles.
WE MUST EXPOSE THEM EVERY WAY WE CAN.
AND WE MUST NEVER ALLOW THE SILENCING OF TRUTH.
What is being done to the American people and our nation is bigger than a party or one or two instances. It is being done methodically and systematically to us.
We either recognise it and stop it now...and take actions to stop it ..or suffer it's grave consequences.
Do not let the posers silence you.
Do not let the posers attempt to intimidate you.
Stand for truth and understand ..truth does prevail..maybe not always on our timetable..but stand with truth and you stand with and for your nation.
Powered by DCForum+ Version 1.1 Copyright 1997-2002 DCScripts.com
Software has been extensively modified by the DU administrators
Important Notices: By participating on this discussion
board, visitors agree to abide by the rules outlined on our Rules
page. Messages posted on the Democratic Underground Discussion Forums are the
opinions of the individuals who post them, and do not necessarily represent
the opinions of Democratic Underground, LLC.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
/*
* Copyright 2015-2020 Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. All Rights Reserved.
*
* Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the "License"). You may not use this file except in compliance with
* the License. A copy of the License is located at
*
* http://aws.amazon.com/apache2.0
*
* or in the "license" file accompanying this file. This file is distributed on an "AS IS" BASIS, WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR
* CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied. See the License for the specific language governing permissions
* and limitations under the License.
*/
package com.amazonaws.services.kinesisfirehose.model.transform;
import javax.annotation.Generated;
import com.amazonaws.SdkClientException;
import com.amazonaws.services.kinesisfirehose.model.*;
import com.amazonaws.protocol.*;
import com.amazonaws.annotation.SdkInternalApi;
/**
* UpdateDestinationRequestMarshaller
*/
@Generated("com.amazonaws:aws-java-sdk-code-generator")
@SdkInternalApi
public class UpdateDestinationRequestMarshaller {
private static final MarshallingInfo<String> DELIVERYSTREAMNAME_BINDING = MarshallingInfo.builder(MarshallingType.STRING)
.marshallLocation(MarshallLocation.PAYLOAD).marshallLocationName("DeliveryStreamName").build();
private static final MarshallingInfo<String> CURRENTDELIVERYSTREAMVERSIONID_BINDING = MarshallingInfo.builder(MarshallingType.STRING)
.marshallLocation(MarshallLocation.PAYLOAD).marshallLocationName("CurrentDeliveryStreamVersionId").build();
private static final MarshallingInfo<String> DESTINATIONID_BINDING = MarshallingInfo.builder(MarshallingType.STRING)
.marshallLocation(MarshallLocation.PAYLOAD).marshallLocationName("DestinationId").build();
private static final MarshallingInfo<StructuredPojo> S3DESTINATIONUPDATE_BINDING = MarshallingInfo.builder(MarshallingType.STRUCTURED)
.marshallLocation(MarshallLocation.PAYLOAD).marshallLocationName("S3DestinationUpdate").build();
private static final MarshallingInfo<StructuredPojo> EXTENDEDS3DESTINATIONUPDATE_BINDING = MarshallingInfo.builder(MarshallingType.STRUCTURED)
.marshallLocation(MarshallLocation.PAYLOAD).marshallLocationName("ExtendedS3DestinationUpdate").build();
private static final MarshallingInfo<StructuredPojo> REDSHIFTDESTINATIONUPDATE_BINDING = MarshallingInfo.builder(MarshallingType.STRUCTURED)
.marshallLocation(MarshallLocation.PAYLOAD).marshallLocationName("RedshiftDestinationUpdate").build();
private static final MarshallingInfo<StructuredPojo> ELASTICSEARCHDESTINATIONUPDATE_BINDING = MarshallingInfo.builder(MarshallingType.STRUCTURED)
.marshallLocation(MarshallLocation.PAYLOAD).marshallLocationName("ElasticsearchDestinationUpdate").build();
private static final MarshallingInfo<StructuredPojo> SPLUNKDESTINATIONUPDATE_BINDING = MarshallingInfo.builder(MarshallingType.STRUCTURED)
.marshallLocation(MarshallLocation.PAYLOAD).marshallLocationName("SplunkDestinationUpdate").build();
private static final MarshallingInfo<StructuredPojo> HTTPENDPOINTDESTINATIONUPDATE_BINDING = MarshallingInfo.builder(MarshallingType.STRUCTURED)
.marshallLocation(MarshallLocation.PAYLOAD).marshallLocationName("HttpEndpointDestinationUpdate").build();
private static final UpdateDestinationRequestMarshaller instance = new UpdateDestinationRequestMarshaller();
public static UpdateDestinationRequestMarshaller getInstance() {
return instance;
}
/**
* Marshall the given parameter object.
*/
public void marshall(UpdateDestinationRequest updateDestinationRequest, ProtocolMarshaller protocolMarshaller) {
if (updateDestinationRequest == null) {
throw new SdkClientException("Invalid argument passed to marshall(...)");
}
try {
protocolMarshaller.marshall(updateDestinationRequest.getDeliveryStreamName(), DELIVERYSTREAMNAME_BINDING);
protocolMarshaller.marshall(updateDestinationRequest.getCurrentDeliveryStreamVersionId(), CURRENTDELIVERYSTREAMVERSIONID_BINDING);
protocolMarshaller.marshall(updateDestinationRequest.getDestinationId(), DESTINATIONID_BINDING);
protocolMarshaller.marshall(updateDestinationRequest.getS3DestinationUpdate(), S3DESTINATIONUPDATE_BINDING);
protocolMarshaller.marshall(updateDestinationRequest.getExtendedS3DestinationUpdate(), EXTENDEDS3DESTINATIONUPDATE_BINDING);
protocolMarshaller.marshall(updateDestinationRequest.getRedshiftDestinationUpdate(), REDSHIFTDESTINATIONUPDATE_BINDING);
protocolMarshaller.marshall(updateDestinationRequest.getElasticsearchDestinationUpdate(), ELASTICSEARCHDESTINATIONUPDATE_BINDING);
protocolMarshaller.marshall(updateDestinationRequest.getSplunkDestinationUpdate(), SPLUNKDESTINATIONUPDATE_BINDING);
protocolMarshaller.marshall(updateDestinationRequest.getHttpEndpointDestinationUpdate(), HTTPENDPOINTDESTINATIONUPDATE_BINDING);
} catch (Exception e) {
throw new SdkClientException("Unable to marshall request to JSON: " + e.getMessage(), e);
}
}
}
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Github"
}
|
Q:
CPU speedup breaking sound compatibility
In the old days, it sometimes happened that a computer with a compatible but faster CPU, had problems running old games. For example, Sopwith was written for an 8088 PC; it was amusingly challenging on a 286, completely unplayable on a 386. For a while, it was not unusual for PCs to have switchable clock speed (typically via a button labelled 'Turbo') to deal with this.
The proper solution, of course, was for games to start locking frame rate to the display refresh. That solution focuses on the display. What about sound?
The ideal scenario is a sound chip with a decent amount of autonomy, so it gets handed some stuff to play, and goes ahead and plays it without further intervention from the CPU. That both offloads work and avoids speed dependency.
But early computers didn't have such sophisticated technology. For example, the Apple II and the CoCo had sound hardware consisting of little more than a DAC, so the CPU had to be continually involved; doubling the clock speed would presumably be expected to double the pitch of the sound.
Are there any known cases, on any platform, where games did lock to the display refresh rate, but still had problems on faster machines, specifically because of the sound playing too fast?
Edit: As Michael Kjörling observes, the really proper solution is to synchronize display with the CRT refresh, while simultaneously using a separate timer as a way to time stuff happening. I'm not aware of anyone doing this before the nineties, but maybe some developers did. One reason it wasn't done in the eighties is that you can't strictly adhere to that discipline with a 2-D game because you can't really move things non-integral numbers of pixels.
A:
As @MichaelKjörling says "For example, you've got a perfectly good 18.2 Hz timer in any IBM PC compatible, which could easily be used to calibrate a delay loop. "
It could be done indeed, any program could program a counter in the the PIT 8253/8254 that any PC compatible has (or emulates). I however have no idea if any game used it for graphics/sound timing.
I used that chipset programming the TAPE2TAP util around 1995, that digitises sound from tapes from the Sinclair ZX Spectrum to DOS files, and the Warajevo emulator also used my routines also for independent CPU speed sound sampling (with my permission). see PIT.INC in my sources.
The Intel 8253 and 8254 are Programmable Interval Timers (PITs), which
perform timing and counting functions using three 16-bit counters.[1]
They were primarily designed for the Intel 8080/8085-processors, but
later used in x86-systems. They (or an equivalent circuit embedded in
a larger chip) are found in all IBM PC compatibles. In PC compatibles,
timer channel 0 is assigned to IRQ-0 (the highest priority hardware
interrupt), channel 1 is assigned to DRAM refresh (at least in early
models), and channel 2 is assigned to the PC speaker.
TBH, I hardly believe my software would be the only example in that time period. The technology was there usable from DOS from the beginning (XT times) to achieve CPU speed independency in time sensitive routines/loops.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "StackExchange"
}
|
Q:
undefined offset error
I want to display values retrieved from mysql in forms and in row by row format.
So i used the following code.
<?php
while($rows1 = mysql_fetch_array($result1)){
?>
<tr height="30" >
<?php $elyid = $rows1['id'] ?>
<form action="leaveactions.php" method="post" name="viewleave">
<td width="82"><?php echo $rows1['empid'];?></td>
<td><?php echo $rows1['name'];?></td>
<td><?php echo $rows1['leavetype'];?></td>
<td width="82"><?php echo $rows1['startdate']; ?></td>
<td width="82"><?php echo $rows1['enddate']; ?></td>
<td><?php echo $rows1['leavetype']; ?></td>
<td>
<input type="submit" name="<?php $rows1['id']; ?>" value="accept"/>
</td>
<td>
<input type="submit" name="reject" value="reject"/>
<input type="hidden" name="emplid" value="<?php echo $rows1['id'] ?>"/>
</td>
</tr>
<?php } ?>
and in leaveactions.php
$ii=0;
$query1 = "select * from applied_leaves where supervisorid ='".$employeeId."' and status='not approved'";
$result1 = mysql_query($query1) or die (mysql_error());
$num1 = mysql_numrows($result1);
while($rows1 = mysql_fetch_array($result1)) {
$ii++;
echo $_POST["$ii"];
if(isset($_POST['$ii'])){
echo "accepted "; echo $_POST['$ii'];
$updateEmp = "update applied_leaves set status='".$accept."' where id='$ii' " ;
$uresult = mysql_query($updateEmp) or die (mysql_error());
if($uresult != null){
echo "Assignment Added successfully<br>";
?>
<a href="updateassignment.php">View Added Details</a>
<?php
} else {
echo "error";
}
}
}
?>
but when run i get
Notice: Undefined offset: 1
Notice: Undefined offset: 2
.
.
.
.
.
.
like that.
Please help me solving the problem.
Thanks in Advance
EDIT
the new code that is causing exception is
$iii=0;
while($rows1 = mysql_fetch_array($result1))
{
$iii++;
if( $_POST["accpt".$iii] ) {
echo "accepted ";
$updateEmp = "update applied_leaves set status='".$accept."' where id='$iii' " ;
$uresult = mysql_query($updateEmp) or die (mysql_error());
if($uresult != null){
echo "Assignment Added successfully<br>";
?>
<a href="updateassignment.php">View Added Details</a>
<?php break;
}
}
}
A:
I think your main error lies here:
<input type="submit" name="<?php $rows1['id']; ?>" value="accept"/>
Here you do not echo $rows1['id'], so if you have a look in the generated code, the name should be empty.
Correct this to
<input type="submit" name="<?php echo $rows1['id']; ?>" value="accept"/>
Furthermore in leaveactions.php you have the following code:
// ...
echo $_POST["$ii"];
if(isset($_POST['$ii'])){
echo "accepted "; echo $_POST['$ii'];
// ...
Here you should first check, whether the variable (here it is $_POST[$ii] - no " needed) before doing the output.
As a result of the previous error, $_POST[$ii] is not set, thus you get the notice on the first echo and never enter the if-clause afterward.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "StackExchange"
}
|
Let y = -12 - -6. Let v be 344/28 - y/(-21). Suppose -4*d = k - 3, -8*d = -3*d - 4*k + v. Solve d*f - f + 5 = 0 for f.
5
Suppose 0 = -8*j + 6 + 34. Solve -j*n - 25 = -0*n for n.
-5
Let j(q) = -q**3 + q + 20. Let w = 8 + -6. Suppose -2*f = -5*d, 7*d = w*d + 5*f. Let i be j(d). Solve -4*h - h - i = 0 for h.
-4
Let h(g) = 4*g**2 - g. Let k(y) = -13*y**2 + 4*y - 1. Let t(w) = 7*h(w) + 2*k(w). Let z be t(2). Let b = -7 - -7. Solve b = -v - v - z for v.
-4
Let g = 9 + 11. Let x(j) = -2*j**3 - j**2 + 6*j + 10. Let v be x(-2). Solve v*y = 5*y + g for y.
4
Let i(p) = -p + 6. Let o = -1 + 1. Let u be i(o). Let w = -36022 - -36022. Solve w = -x + u*x + 20 for x.
-4
Suppose 0*m + 4 = m. Suppose -3*z - n + 3*n + m = 0, 5*n + 10 = 4*z. Solve z = 2*v - 0*v + 2 for v.
-1
Suppose 16 - 6 = 2*z. Let m(k) = k**2 + 48*k - 93. Let v be m(-50). Solve -v - z = 4*f for f.
-3
Let w = -81 + 84. Let t be (4 - w) + -1 + 3 + 0. Solve 0 = t*s + 2*s - 5 for s.
1
Suppose 2*v = 5*y - 5 - 6, 4*y - v = 10. Solve j - y*j = -2 for j.
1
Suppose 4*x = 3*r - 72, -x - 5 = -2. Let b = -51 - -56. Suppose 0 = -4*u + 3*q - 12, -u - b*q = 2*u - r. Solve o - 5*o + 16 = u for o.
4
Let y(i) = -i**3 + 19*i**2 + 21*i - 14. Let b be y(20). Suppose b*f - 5*r - 3 = 2*f, 5*f = 3*r + 7. Solve -f*s - s - 9 = 0 for s.
-3
Let a be (2 - (-14)/(-6))*(14 - 5). Let s = a + 7. Solve -s*q = -1 + 5 for q.
-1
Suppose -2*r = -5*x + 13, 4*r - 18 = r - 5*x. Let u(d) = d**2 + 15*d - 14. Let k be u(-16). Solve 0 = -t - r - k for t.
-3
Let j(w) = -2*w**2 + w + 7. Let c be j(3). Let h be -2 + c/(-3 + -1). Solve -5*d + d + 4 = h for d.
1
Suppose 5*m - 12 = -t, -2*m - 5*t = -t + 6. Let l(h) = -5*h - 23. Let x be l(-11). Let k = x - 32. Solve k = -3*v + m - 0 for v.
1
Let k = 884 - 879. Solve 5 - k = -f for f.
0
Let o = -303 + 306. Let j(f) = -4 + 0 - 3*f**2 - f**3 + 7*f**2. Let z be j(o). Solve 0*y + y = z for y.
5
Let c be 10/2 + 23 + -17. Let u be 0/(-8) + (-2)/(-1). Solve -3 = u*k - c for k.
4
Let x(f) = 8*f**2 - 4*f - 3. Let q be x(-1). Suppose 3*k = q*k - 12. Solve 2*n - k + 0 = 0 for n.
1
Let c be 4/46 + (-30316)/(-506). Solve -20 = 16*h + c for h.
-5
Let b(a) = 2*a - 10. Let o be b(6). Suppose 5*u + 10 + 0 = 5*v, -o = u. Suppose 0 = 3*l + 5*i - 30 - 18, -i = v. Solve -5*c + l = -c for c.
4
Let w(j) = -14*j + 71. Let b be w(9). Let c = b - -59. Solve -6*d = -c*d - 6 for d.
3
Let b be (15/6)/5 - 14/(-4). Solve -b*f = f for f.
0
Let s be (-8)/6*(-3)/2. Suppose -2*b - 5*t + 19 = 0, -6 = 3*t - 5*t. Suppose 2*m + 3*m - 21 = b*y, 0 = 4*y + 3*m - 23. Solve y*l = -s - 6 for l.
-4
Suppose -21*d = r - 20*d - 15, r - 2*d - 12 = 0. Solve 32*q - 25*q = r for q.
2
Let n = -10 - -15. Solve x + 4*x - n = 0 for x.
1
Let h be (-30)/5 - (-12)/2. Solve 0 = -6*i + 24 - h for i.
4
Let m = -71 - -74. Solve -m = -5*o + 6*o for o.
-3
Suppose u - 3*s - 6 = 0, s - 2 = 2*u + 2*s. Solve u*q - 4 = q for q.
-4
Let c(i) = 10*i - 197. Let n be c(20). Solve n*a - a + 6 = 0 for a.
-3
Let b(y) = -y**3 - 5*y**2 + 5*y - 3. Let w be b(-6). Let u be 0/w + -1 + 1. Suppose u = s + 4 - 7. Solve 0 = -5*r + 7 + s for r.
2
Suppose 0 = -3*p + 29*p - 26. Let b = 1 + 1. Solve -7 = b*z + p for z.
-4
Suppose -200 = -59*o + 34*o. Solve -o*f + 11 + 5 = 0 for f.
2
Suppose 206*y - 207*y - 2*x + 5 = 0, 8 = y + 5*x. Suppose 0 = 2*o + o - 6. Solve 0 = -o*g + y*g + 5 for g.
-5
Let f = 822 - 815. Solve -f*o + 69 = 34 for o.
5
Let t = -73 + 9. Let a be t/12*6/(-4). Solve -2*k + 0 - a = 0 for k.
-4
Let t(y) = -5*y + 263. Let c be t(52). Let n = 5 + -3. Let d be 40/n*1/2. Solve -c*f - d = -22 for f.
4
Let g(x) = -x**3 + 4*x**2 - 3*x + 1. Let c(j) = j**3 - j**2 - j. Let s be c(2). Let p be g(s). Solve -p*a + 4*a = 0 for a.
0
Let n be ((-8)/4 + -3)/(-1). Suppose n*s + 321 = -189. Let h be (s/119)/(2/(-14)). Solve -a + h = 2 for a.
4
Suppose g = -4*h + 4*g, -3*h = 4*g. Suppose h = 2*t + 10 - 26. Solve -t = 2*y + 2 for y.
-5
Let x be 16*8/(-16) + 8. Solve 4*r + 15 - 3 = x for r.
-3
Suppose 88 = 5*f - f. Suppose 0 = 3*b - b - 5*l - f, 4*l - 56 = -3*b. Solve -5*r = -1 + b for r.
-3
Suppose w - 19 = -2*b, -4*b + 39 = 2*w - b. Solve -6*c + 13*c = -w for c.
-3
Suppose -a + 0*h + 2*h + 5 = 0, 0 = -2*h. Suppose -2*q + 0*q - a*l = 20, 4*q - 3*l = 12. Solve q = -g + 1 + 2 for g.
3
Let b(y) be the first derivative of 5*y**2 + 64*y + 49. Let l be b(-6). Solve 0 = r + 7 - l for r.
-3
Suppose 3*k = 3 - 0. Let x(w) = w**3 - 21*w**2 + 55*w + 235. Let s be x(17). Solve -s - k = 3*m for m.
-5
Suppose -2*i = -15*r + 17*r - 4, -24 = -3*r + 3*i. Suppose h + 5*k - 50 = -4*h, -2*k = -2*h + 40. Solve -5*q = h - r for q.
-2
Let b be ((-2)/(-8) + (-221)/(-52))*10. Suppose 13*d = 10*d + b. Solve 5*u - d = -35 for u.
-4
Suppose 6 = 2*n + n. Let s be (4 - 5)*-1*3. Suppose -s*a = -2*i - 23, 6*a - 30 = a - 5*i. Solve -3*r = -n - a for r.
3
Suppose -11*p - 6*p = -32*p. Solve 3*m + p + 12 = 0 for m.
-4
Suppose 13*y - 4*f = 17*y - 40, 4*y + 3*f - 35 = 0. Solve y*b + 23 - 3 = 0 for b.
-4
Let t(j) = j**2 + 29*j + 324. Let i be t(-16). Solve i*g + 1 = 115*g for g.
-1
Let t = 3606 - 3606. Let c(j) = -j + 7. Let d be c(6). Solve -g = -d - t for g.
1
Let l be 10/(-8)*-1*(11 - -21). Solve 43*v - l*v + 9 = 0 for v.
-3
Let p(u) = -u**3 + 14*u**2 + 31*u + 23. Let z be p(16). Solve 2*s = 9*s + z for s.
-1
Let s be ((-9)/6)/(-4*(-4)/(-96)). Solve s*i + 1 = 10*i for i.
1
Suppose 0 = 5*j - 5*v + 50, j + 5*v + 6 = -2*j. Let r(y) = y**2 + 3*y - 25. Let d be r(j). Solve -d*b = -4*b for b.
0
Let m(g) = g**2 - 4*g + 3. Let r = 76 + -75. Let n be m(r). Solve n = -l - 1 - 1 for l.
-2
Let u(q) = 4*q + 24. Let v be u(-5). Suppose -1 = c + 2*y, 7 = -v*c + 3*y + 14. Solve c = -4*l + 5*l for l.
1
Suppose 1499 = 20*a + 99. Solve -a = -7*c + 21*c for c.
-5
Let d(n) = 13*n - 2. Let b be d(2). Solve b = -0*l - 6*l for l.
-4
Suppose 4*y - 16 - 16 = 0. Let m be (-8)/(55/50 - 1). Let s be ((-96)/m)/(6/20). Solve -s*f - 4 = -y*f for f.
1
Suppose 5*p = -10, -v - 55 = -4*v + 5*p. Let x = -29 + 47. Let o = x - v. Solve 0 = -4*b + o*b + 3 for b.
3
Let t be 2*(-2)/(2 - 4). Suppose t*j - 7*j + 35 = 0. Solve 0 = -j*n + 2*n + 25 for n.
5
Let z(q) = -q**2 - 9*q - 11. Suppose 20 = -2*p + 6*p. Suppose -p*b + 0*b - 35 = 0. Let c be z(b). Solve 0 = -w + c*w for w.
0
Let k(z) = z**2 + 5*z. Let y be k(-5). Suppose -2*v + y*i + 55 = 3*i, -10 = -v - 5*i. Let d = -25 + v. Solve 2*r + d = 4*r for r.
5
Suppose -4*s = -6*i + 11*i + 7, -4*s + 11 = -i. Solve s*y = 7*y + 15 for y.
-3
Suppose 395*o - 404*o + 72 = 0. Solve 7*s + 1 = o*s for s.
1
Let s(y) = 50 + 14*y + 7*y - 2*y**2 + y**2. Let f be s(23). Solve -10 = -f*u + 10 for u.
5
Let m = 5 + -7. Let c(y) = -y**3 - 3*y**2 - y + 2. Let t be c(m). Suppose t*v = -2*v - 4*j + 14, 0 = -3*v + j + 14. Solve 0 = -g + v*g for g.
0
Let u be (2/2)/((-5)/(-45)). Suppose 10*z - 12 - 8 = 0. Solve -j + u = z*j for j.
3
Let n(s) = -s + 28. Let h be n(26). Suppose -w + h = 3*r, -r = 3*r - w - 12. Solve d + 3 = -r*d for d.
-1
Suppose -4*t + 20 = 12. Suppose -t*b + 6*b = 0. Solve -4*i = -b*i + 16 for i.
-4
Let t = 1838 + -1825. Solve 0 = -t*u + 21*u - 24 for u.
3
Suppose -4*n = 2*d - 48, 2 = 4*d - 5*n - 55. Let r = 21 - d. Suppose 0*l = 3*l - 6. Solve r*i = -l - 7 for i.
-3
Suppose -106*w = -41*w - 845. Solve w*s + 4*s + 34 = 0 for s.
-2
Suppose -6 - 14 = -5*z. Suppose 5*h = -4*v + 30, 3*h + 6 = z*h - v. Suppose y - 3 = 5*w, 6*w - 2*y = 2*w - h. Solve -5*i + 34 - 9 = w for i.
5
Suppose -4*c - j + 7 = -4*j, -5 = -2*c + j. Suppose 18 = 5*a - g - 45, 47 = 3*a + c*g. Solve 3 = -5*t + a for t.
2
Suppose v = 2*t - 255 + 310, -v - 2*t = -55. Solve 0 = 3*r - 61 + v for r.
2
Suppose p = -4*p - 20. Let o be p*(38/(-4) - -2). Let x = -18 + o. Solve -x = -5*a + 13 for a.
5
Let r = 31 + -30. Let w = 4 + r. Solve w*g - 9 = 2*g for g.
3
Let s(m) = -3*m**2 + 24*m - 18. Let a be s(5). Solve 24*x = 93 + a for x.
5
Let h be (36/(-48))/((-2)/8). Suppose h*t = 3*z + 3, 3 = 4*z - t + 4. Solve 3*w - 7*w + 8 = z for w.
2
Let t be (-1)/(20/(-6) + 3). Suppose -4*d = 3*m - 3*d - 5, -2*d = -t*m + 17. Solve -2*j = -m*j for j.
0
Let f(l) = 2*l**2 - 2*l - 2. Let m be f(2). Let d(t) = -t - 4*t + 3*t + 3*t. Let v be d(m). Solve -z + v + 2 = 0 for z.
4
Suppose -3*x = -6, 4*x + 42 = 8*i - 3*i. Solve i*j + 0*j = 40 for j.
4
Let t be (-1 + 1)/(-1 + (2 - 3)). Solve t
|
{
"pile_set_name": "DM Mathematics"
}
|
#!/usr/bin/env python
"""Nagios plugin for Amazon RDS monitoring.
This program is part of $PROJECT_NAME$
License: GPL License (see COPYING)
Author Roman Vynar
Copyright 2014-2015 Percona LLC and/or its affiliates
"""
import datetime
import optparse
import pprint
import sys
import boto
import boto.rds
import boto.ec2.cloudwatch
# Nagios status codes
OK = 0
WARNING = 1
CRITICAL = 2
UNKNOWN = 3
class RDS(object):
"""RDS connection class"""
def __init__(self, region, profile=None, identifier=None):
"""Get RDS instance details"""
self.region = region
self.profile = profile
self.identifier = identifier
if self.region == 'all':
self.regions_list = [reg.name for reg in boto.rds.regions()]
else:
self.regions_list = [self.region]
self.info = None
if self.identifier:
for reg in self.regions_list:
try:
rds = boto.rds.connect_to_region(reg, profile_name=self.profile)
self.info = rds.get_all_dbinstances(self.identifier)
except (boto.provider.ProfileNotFoundError, boto.exception.BotoServerError) as msg:
debug(msg)
else:
# Exit on the first region and identifier match
self.region = reg
break
def get_info(self):
"""Get RDS instance info"""
if self.info:
return self.info[0]
else:
return None
def get_list(self):
"""Get list of available instances by region(s)"""
result = dict()
for reg in self.regions_list:
try:
rds = boto.rds.connect_to_region(reg, profile_name=self.profile)
result[reg] = rds.get_all_dbinstances()
except (boto.provider.ProfileNotFoundError, boto.exception.BotoServerError) as msg:
debug(msg)
return result
def get_metric(self, metric, start_time, end_time, step):
"""Get RDS metric from CloudWatch"""
cw_conn = boto.ec2.cloudwatch.connect_to_region(self.region, profile_name=self.profile)
result = cw_conn.get_metric_statistics(
step,
start_time,
end_time,
metric,
'AWS/RDS',
'Average',
dimensions={'DBInstanceIdentifier': [self.identifier]}
)
if result:
if len(result) > 1:
# Get the last point
result = sorted(result, key=lambda k: k['Timestamp'])
result.reverse()
result = float('%.2f' % result[0]['Average'])
return result
def debug(val):
"""Debugging output"""
global options
if options.debug:
print 'DEBUG: %s' % val
def main():
"""Main function"""
global options
short_status = {
OK: 'OK',
WARNING: 'WARN',
CRITICAL: 'CRIT',
UNKNOWN: 'UNK'
}
# DB instance classes as listed on
# http://docs.aws.amazon.com/AmazonRDS/latest/UserGuide/Concepts.DBInstanceClass.html
db_classes = {
'db.t1.micro': 0.615,
'db.m1.small': 1.7,
'db.m1.medium': 3.75,
'db.m1.large': 7.5,
'db.m1.xlarge': 15,
'db.m4.large': 8,
'db.m4.xlarge': 16,
'db.m4.2xlarge': 32,
'db.m4.4xlarge': 64,
'db.m4.10xlarge': 160,
'db.m4.16xlarge': 256,
'db.m5.large': 8,
'db.m5.xlarge': 16,
'db.m5.2xlarge': 32,
'db.m5.4xlarge': 64,
'db.m5.12xlarge': 192,
'db.m5.24xlarge': 384,
'db.r3.large': 15,
'db.r3.xlarge': 30.5,
'db.r3.2xlarge': 61,
'db.r3.4xlarge': 122,
'db.r3.8xlarge': 244,
'db.r4.large': 15.25,
'db.r4.xlarge': 30.5,
'db.r4.2xlarge': 61,
'db.r4.4xlarge': 122,
'db.r4.8xlarge': 244,
'db.r4.16xlarge': 488,
'db.r5.large': 16,
'db.r5.xlarge': 32,
'db.r5.2xlarge': 64,
'db.r5.4xlarge': 128,
'db.r5.12xlarge': 384,
'db.r5.24xlarge': 768,
'db.t2.micro': 1,
'db.t2.small': 2,
'db.t2.medium': 4,
'db.t2.large': 8,
'db.t2.xlarge': 16,
'db.t2.2xlarge': 32,
'db.m3.medium': 3.75,
'db.m3.large': 7.5,
'db.m3.xlarge': 15,
'db.m3.2xlarge': 30,
'db.m2.xlarge': 17.1,
'db.m2.2xlarge': 34.2,
'db.m2.4xlarge': 68.4,
'db.cr1.8xlarge': 244,
'db.x1.16xlarge': 976,
'db.x1.32xlarge': 1952,
'db.x1e.xlarge': 122,
'db.x1e.2xlarge': 244,
'db.x1e.4xlarge': 488,
'db.x1e.8xlarge': 976,
'db.x1e.16xlarge': 1952,
'db.x1e.32xlarge': 3904,
}
# RDS metrics http://docs.aws.amazon.com/AmazonCloudWatch/latest/DeveloperGuide/rds-metricscollected.html
metrics = {
'status': 'RDS availability',
'load': 'CPUUtilization',
'memory': 'FreeableMemory',
'storage': 'FreeStorageSpace'
}
units = ('percent', 'GB')
# Parse options
parser = optparse.OptionParser()
parser.add_option('-l', '--list', help='list of all DB instances',
action='store_true', default=False, dest='db_list')
parser.add_option('-n', '--profile', default=None,
help='AWS profile from ~/.boto or /etc/boto.cfg. Default: None, fallbacks to "[Credentials]".')
parser.add_option('-r', '--region', default='us-east-1',
help='AWS region. Default: us-east-1. If set to "all", we try to detect the instance region '
'across all of them, note this will be slower than if you specify the region explicitly.')
parser.add_option('-i', '--ident', help='DB instance identifier')
parser.add_option('-p', '--print', help='print status and other details for a given DB instance',
action='store_true', default=False, dest='printinfo')
parser.add_option('-m', '--metric', help='metric to check: [%s]' % ', '.join(metrics.keys()))
parser.add_option('-w', '--warn', help='warning threshold')
parser.add_option('-c', '--crit', help='critical threshold')
parser.add_option('-u', '--unit', help='unit of thresholds for "storage" and "memory" metrics: [%s].'
'Default: percent' % ', '.join(units), default='percent')
parser.add_option('-t', '--time', help='time period in minutes to query. Default: 5',
type='int', default=5)
parser.add_option('-a', '--avg', help='time average in minutes to request. Default: 1',
type='int', default=1)
parser.add_option('-f', '--forceunknown', help='force alerts on unknown status. This prevents issues related to '
'AWS Cloudwatch throttling limits Default: False',
action='store_true', default=False)
parser.add_option('-d', '--debug', help='enable debug output',
action='store_true', default=False)
options, _ = parser.parse_args()
if options.debug:
boto.set_stream_logger('boto')
rds = RDS(region=options.region, profile=options.profile, identifier=options.ident)
# Check args
if len(sys.argv) == 1:
parser.print_help()
sys.exit()
elif options.db_list:
info = rds.get_list()
print 'List of all DB instances in %s region(s):' % (options.region,)
pprint.pprint(info)
sys.exit()
elif not options.ident:
parser.print_help()
parser.error('DB identifier is not set.')
elif options.printinfo:
info = rds.get_info()
if info:
pprint.pprint(vars(info))
else:
print 'No DB instance "%s" found on your AWS account and %s region(s).' % (options.ident, options.region)
sys.exit()
elif not options.metric or options.metric not in metrics.keys():
parser.print_help()
parser.error('Metric is not set or not valid.')
elif not options.warn and options.metric != 'status':
parser.print_help()
parser.error('Warning threshold is not set.')
elif not options.crit and options.metric != 'status':
parser.print_help()
parser.error('Critical threshold is not set.')
elif options.avg <= 0 and options.metric != 'status':
parser.print_help()
parser.error('Average must be greater than zero.')
elif options.time <= 0 and options.metric != 'status':
parser.print_help()
parser.error('Time must be greater than zero.')
now = datetime.datetime.utcnow()
status = None
note = ''
perf_data = None
# RDS Status
if options.metric == 'status':
info = rds.get_info()
if not info:
status = UNKNOWN
note = 'Unable to get RDS instance'
else:
status = OK
try:
version = info.EngineVersion
except:
version = info.engine_version
note = '%s %s. Status: %s' % (info.engine, version, info.status)
# RDS Load Average
elif options.metric == 'load':
# Check thresholds
try:
warns = [float(x) for x in options.warn.split(',')]
crits = [float(x) for x in options.crit.split(',')]
fail = len(warns) + len(crits)
except:
fail = 0
if fail != 6:
parser.error('Warning and critical thresholds should be 3 comma separated numbers, e.g. 20,15,10')
loads = []
fail = False
j = 0
perf_data = []
for i in [1, 5, 15]:
if i == 1:
# Some stats are delaying to update on CloudWatch.
# Let's pick a few points for 1-min load avg and get the last point.
points = 5
else:
points = i
load = rds.get_metric(metrics[options.metric], now - datetime.timedelta(seconds=points * 60), now, i * 60)
if not load:
status = UNKNOWN
note = 'Unable to get RDS statistics'
perf_data = None
break
loads.append(str(load))
perf_data.append('load%s=%s;%s;%s;0;100' % (i, load, warns[j], crits[j]))
# Compare thresholds
if not fail:
if warns[j] > crits[j]:
parser.error('Parameter inconsistency: warning threshold is greater than critical.')
elif load >= crits[j]:
status = CRITICAL
fail = True
elif load >= warns[j]:
status = WARNING
j = j + 1
if status != UNKNOWN:
if status is None:
status = OK
note = 'Load average: %s%%' % '%, '.join(loads)
perf_data = ' '.join(perf_data)
# RDS Free Storage
# RDS Free Memory
elif options.metric in ['storage', 'memory']:
# Check thresholds
try:
warn = float(options.warn)
crit = float(options.crit)
except:
parser.error('Warning and critical thresholds should be integers.')
if crit > warn:
parser.error('Parameter inconsistency: critical threshold is greater than warning.')
if options.unit not in units:
parser.print_help()
parser.error('Unit is not valid.')
info = rds.get_info()
free = rds.get_metric(metrics[options.metric], now - datetime.timedelta(seconds=options.time * 60),
now, options.avg * 60)
if not info or not free:
status = UNKNOWN
note = 'Unable to get RDS details and statistics'
else:
if options.metric == 'storage':
storage = float(info.allocated_storage)
elif options.metric == 'memory':
try:
storage = db_classes[info.instance_class]
except:
print 'Unknown DB instance class "%s"' % info.instance_class
sys.exit(CRITICAL)
free = '%.2f' % (free / 1024 ** 3)
free_pct = '%.2f' % (float(free) / storage * 100)
if options.unit == 'percent':
val = float(free_pct)
val_max = 100
elif options.unit == 'GB':
val = float(free)
val_max = storage
# Compare thresholds
if val <= crit:
status = CRITICAL
elif val <= warn:
status = WARNING
if status is None:
status = OK
note = 'Free %s: %s GB (%.0f%%) of %s GB' % (options.metric, free, float(free_pct), storage)
perf_data = 'free_%s=%s;%s;%s;0;%s' % (options.metric, val, warn, crit, val_max)
# Final output
if status != UNKNOWN and perf_data:
print '%s %s | %s' % (short_status[status], note, perf_data)
elif status == UNKNOWN and not options.forceunknown:
print '%s %s | null' % ('OK', note)
sys.exit(0)
else:
print '%s %s' % (short_status[status], note)
sys.exit(status)
if __name__ == '__main__':
main()
# ############################################################################
# Documentation
# ############################################################################
"""
=pod
=head1 NAME
pmp-check-aws-rds.py - Check Amazon RDS metrics.
=head1 SYNOPSIS
Usage: pmp-check-aws-rds.py [options]
Options:
-h, --help show this help message and exit
-l, --list list of all DB instances
-n PROFILE, --profile-name=PROFILE
AWS profile from ~/.boto or /etc/boto.cfg. Default:
None, fallbacks to "[Credentials]".
-r REGION, --region=REGION
AWS region. Default: us-east-1. If set to "all", we
try to detect the instance region across all of them,
note this will be slower than you specify the region.
-i IDENT, --ident=IDENT
DB instance identifier
-p, --print print status and other details for a given DB instance
-m METRIC, --metric=METRIC
metric to check: [status, load, storage, memory]
-w WARN, --warn=WARN warning threshold
-c CRIT, --crit=CRIT critical threshold
-u UNIT, --unit=UNIT unit of thresholds for "storage" and "memory" metrics:
[percent, GB]. Default: percent
-t TIME, --time=TIME time period in minutes to query. Default: 5
-a AVG, --avg=AVG time average in minutes to request. Default: 1
-f, --forceunknown force alerts on unknown status. This prevents issues
related to AWS Cloudwatch throttling limits Default:
False
-d, --debug enable debug output
=head1 REQUIREMENTS
This plugin is written on Python and utilizes the module C<boto> (Python interface
to Amazon Web Services) to get various RDS metrics from CloudWatch and compare
them against the thresholds.
* Install the package: C<yum install python-boto> or C<apt-get install python-boto>
* Create a config /etc/boto.cfg or ~nagios/.boto with your AWS API credentials.
See http://code.google.com/p/boto/wiki/BotoConfig
This plugin that is supposed to be run by Nagios, i.e. under ``nagios`` user,
should have permissions to read the config /etc/boto.cfg or ~nagios/.boto.
Example:
[root@centos6 ~]# cat /etc/boto.cfg
[Credentials]
aws_access_key_id = THISISATESTKEY
aws_secret_access_key = thisisatestawssecretaccesskey
If you do not use this config with other tools such as our Cacti script,
you can secure this file the following way:
[root@centos6 ~]# chown nagios /etc/boto.cfg
[root@centos6 ~]# chmod 600 /etc/boto.cfg
=head1 DESCRIPTION
The plugin provides 4 checks and some options to list and print RDS details:
* RDS Status
* RDS Load Average
* RDS Free Storage
* RDS Free Memory
To get the list of all RDS instances under AWS account:
# ./pmp-check-aws-rds.py -l
To get the detailed status of RDS instance identified as C<blackbox>:
# ./pmp-check-aws-rds.py -i blackbox -p
Nagios check for the overall status. Useful if you want to set the rest
of the checks dependent from this one:
# ./pmp-check-aws-rds.py -i blackbox -m status
OK mysql 5.1.63. Status: available
Nagios check for CPU utilization, specify thresholds as percentage of
1-min., 5-min., 15-min. average accordingly:
# ./pmp-check-aws-rds.py -i blackbox -m load -w 90,85,80 -c 98,95,90
OK Load average: 18.36%, 18.51%, 15.95% | load1=18.36;90.0;98.0;0;100 load5=18.51;85.0;95.0;0;100 load15=15.95;80.0;90.0;0;100
Nagios check for the free memory, specify thresholds as percentage:
# ./pmp-check-aws-rds.py -i blackbox -m memory -w 5 -c 2
OK Free memory: 5.90 GB (9%) of 68 GB | free_memory=8.68;5.0;2.0;0;100
# ./pmp-check-aws-rds.py -i blackbox -m memory -u GB -w 4 -c 2
OK Free memory: 5.90 GB (9%) of 68 GB | free_memory=5.9;4.0;2.0;0;68
Nagios check for the free storage space, specify thresholds as percentage or GB:
# ./pmp-check-aws-rds.py -i blackbox -m storage -w 10 -c 5
OK Free storage: 162.55 GB (33%) of 500.0 GB | free_storage=32.51;10.0;5.0;0;100
# ./pmp-check-aws-rds.py -i blackbox -m storage -u GB -w 10 -c 5
OK Free storage: 162.55 GB (33%) of 500.0 GB | free_storage=162.55;10.0;5.0;0;500.0
By default, the region is set to ``us-east-1``. You can re-define it globally in boto config or
specify with -r option. The following command will list all instances across all regions under your AWS account:
# ./pmp-check-aws-rds.py -r all -l
The following command will show the status for the first instance identified as ``blackbox`` in all regions:
# ./pmp-check-aws-rds.py -r all -i blackbox -p
Remember, scanning regions are slower operation than specifying it explicitly.
=head1 CONFIGURATION
Here is the excerpt of potential Nagios config:
define host{
use mysql-host
host_name blackbox
alias blackbox
address blackbox.abcdefgh.us-east-1.rds.amazonaws.com
}
define servicedependency{
host_name blackbox
service_description RDS Status
dependent_service_description RDS Load Average, RDS Free Storage, RDS Free Memory
execution_failure_criteria w,c,u,p
notification_failure_criteria w,c,u,p
}
define service{
use active-service
host_name blackbox
service_description RDS Status
check_command check_rds!status!0!0
}
define service{
use active-service
host_name blackbox
service_description RDS Load Average
check_command check_rds!load!90,85,80!98,95,90
}
define service{
use active-service
host_name blackbox
service_description RDS Free Storage
check_command check_rds!storage!10!5
}
define service{
use active-service
host_name blackbox
service_description RDS Free Memory
check_command check_rds!memory!5!2
}
define command{
command_name check_rds
command_line $USER1$/pmp-check-aws-rds.py -i $HOSTALIAS$ -m $ARG1$ -w $ARG2$ -c $ARG3$
}
=head1 COPYRIGHT, LICENSE, AND WARRANTY
This program is copyright 2014 Percona LLC and/or its affiliates.
Feedback and improvements are welcome.
THIS PROGRAM IS PROVIDED "AS IS" AND WITHOUT ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED
WARRANTIES, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
This program is free software; you can redistribute it and/or modify it under
the terms of the GNU General Public License as published by the Free Software
Foundation, version 2. You should have received a copy of the GNU General
Public License along with this program; if not, write to the Free Software
Foundation, Inc., 59 Temple Place, Suite 330, Boston, MA 02111-1307 USA.
=head1 VERSION
$PROJECT_NAME$ pmp-check-aws-rds.py $VERSION$
=cut
"""
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Github"
}
|
Sample chronology of anarchist women's activity in Latin America 1884-1968
What follows is a short sample of some of the activities undertaken by women anarchists in Latin America between 1884 and the 1940s. The chronology is not exhaustive but provides signposts for further enquiry and investigation.
1884
Uruguay: Newspaper Lucha Obrera calls for the establishment of a women’s branch in the International WorkingMen’s Association chapter in Montevideo.
1895
Publication in Buenos Aires of the pamphlet Propaganda anarquista entre las mujeres (Anarchist Propaganda Among Women) over the signature of the Italian freethinker Ana Maria Mozón, tackling ideas such as free love, family, exploitation of manufacturing and the various forms of violence (conjugal, beatings, psychological bullying). “We seek liberation from the lust of the employer who exploits us, from the blandishments of the priest who fills heads with superstitions, the authority of the spouse that mistreats you”. It is reprinted by the newspaper La Questione Sociale.
1896
Newspaper La Voz de la Mujer (Woman’s Voice) in circulation, 1896-1897. A platform for the anarcho-communist outlook, it circulates among working women in Buenos Aires, La Plata and Rosario for the most part. Its first edition is greeted with hostility by some anarchist circles who describe its editors as “vicious tongues and pens” on account of the attacks they launch on attitudes that are inconsistent with anarchism when it comes to equality between men and women.
1890
Uruguayan anarchist Virginia Bolten heads the first march ever held in Rosario, Argentina to mark the 1st of May. She carries a red flag with this inscription in black: “First of May. Universal Brotherhood. We, the workers of Rosario, abide by the dispositions of the International Labour Committee in Paris.” She is the only woman to address the crowd.
1900
Uruguay: Spanish-born Belén de Sárraga, a teacher and freethinking journalist, decides to settle in Uruguay, reckoning that there she will be able to get on with her work without interference, on account of the liberal policies of the government headed by José Battle y Ordóñez.
1901
Mexico: In Guanajuato the first edition of the newspaper Vesper appears: it is published by the Mexican revolutionary and anarchist journalist Juana Belén Gutiérrez de Mendoza, its purpose being to combat Porfirio Díaz’s dictatorship. Despite several interruptions in the form of closures, the paper survives until 1936. Over the years Juana Belen endures political harassment and imprisonment.
Argentina: A significant number of unions affiliated to the anarchist-inclined FORA (Argentine Regional Workers’ Federation) back the slogan “Equal pay for equal work”.
Uruguay: Unions are formed among the women providing laundry, ironing, match-making and cigarette-making services.
1902
Peru: The anarchist review La Idea Libre launches a women’s section, including, among other articles, pieces by US suffragettes.
Argentina: The ‘Las Libertarias’ group is launched offering women alternatives ways to resist. Virginia Bolten begins a propaganda tour of several Argentinean cities.
Mexico: Juana Belén Gutiérrez de Mendoza’s paper, Vesper, begins publication in Mexico City. Juana Belén strikes up a connection with the brothers Ricardo and Jesús Flores Magón, core figures in Mexican anarchism and founders of the Mexican Liberal Party.
1903
Mexico: From prison, Elisa Acuña y Rosetti joins with Juana Belén Gutiérrez de Mendoza to launch the newspaper Fiat Lux. Elisa Acuña is a member of the ‘Ponciano Arriaga’ Co-ordinating Centre of the Confederation of Liberal Clubs. Their paper becomes the official mouthpiece of the Women’s Mutual Society.
Chile: Launch of the pro-anarchist Cosmopolitan Federation of Women in Resistance. Ángela Muñoz Arancibia is prominent in the launch.
1904
Mexico: In Laredo (Texas) Juana Belén Gutiérrez de Mendoza, along with journalists and political activists Elisa Acuña and Sara Estela Ramírez, resumes publication of Vesper, as well as of the newspapers La Corregidora and La Protesta Nacional.
Argentina: Juana Rouco Buela, a central figure in female Argentinean anarcho-syndicalism, addresses a FORA rally during the May Day celebrations.
1905
Chile: 10 September sees the release in Valparaíso of the very first edition of La Alborada “fortnightly champion of the proletarian classes” (1905-1907), a newspaper with anarchist leanings, founded and directed by the type-setter Carmela Jería, its purpose being “in particular to champion the cause of harried working women”. A year later, following the earthquake in Valparaíso, it resurfaces in Santiago with the sub-title “feminist publication”.
Puerto Rico: Luisa Capetillo, writer, journalist and anarcho-feminist trade unionist, gets involved at the age of 15 in a farming strike in her native village of Arecibo.
1906
Brazil: At the instigation of the anarchist activist Ernestina Lesina the Association of Bag Stitchers is set up. Lesina issues invitations calling upon the working women to join the fight to secure a cut in work hours. In São Paulo, Lesina launches the newspaper Anima e Vita. A lecturer and public speaker, she embraces the cause of female liberation.
In São Paulo the anarchist working women Maria Lopes, Teresa Fabri and Teresa Maria Carini launch a Manifesto addressed to working women. It is published in the anarchist newspaper Terra Livre, urging the women to get involved in the strike wave unleashed in São Paulo and urging them to denounce the dire working conditions they have to endure, the excessive working hours and the wretched pay they receive.
Chile: The Santiago Seamstresses’ Association begins publication of the newspaper La Palanca. It tackles issues such as the workers’ movement and carries specific articles on the condition of women and “male oppression”.
Argentina: Buenos Aires hosts the International Freethought Congress at which Belén de Sárraga is invited guest of honour.
1907
Argentina: Juana Rouco Buela, Virginia Bolten, Teresa Caporaletti and María Collazo launch the Anarchist Women’s Centre. At the same time, in Rosario, a ‘Louise Michel’ Anarchist Women’s Centre is opened to commemorate the French anarchist who took part in the Paris Commune in 1871. Juana Rouco and María Collazo speak at the massive march organised by the historic Tenants’ Strike Committee protesting at rent hikes and evictions. That strike gained the support of 100,000 people, most of them working men and women. It was crushed with bloodshed. As a result of the part they played, the government used the Residency Law to deport a number of anarchist leaders as foreigners: these include Uruguayans María Collazo and Virginia Bolten and Spaniard Juana Rouco Buela.
Puerto Rico: Luisa Capetillo champions working women’s entitlement to the vote and to organise into trade unions.
Mexico: Emergence of the ‘Hijas de Anáhuac’ (Daughters of Anáhuac) group made up of female textile workers from Tizapán who embrace the programme of the Flores Magóns’ Mexican Liberal Party.
Chile: Carmela Jería delivers a speech to the 40,000-strong crowd at the May Day celebrations.
1908
Uruguay: Appearance of the anarchist newspaper La Nueva Senda, launched by Virginia Bolten. María Collazo and Juana Rouco Buela and a team of male anarchists.
1910
Puerto Rico: Luisa Capetillo published the review Mujer (Woman).
The VI Labour Congress of the anarchist-inclined Free Workers’ Federation (FLT) passes a resolution to launch a women’s wing to its organisation.
Uruguay: A Women’s Amalgamated Trades Association is launched within the Anarchist Labour Federation of Uruguay.
Argentina: Belén de Sárraga takes part in the International Women’s Congress and is appointed honorary chair of the congress.
1911
Peru: Launch of the anarchist paper La Protesta, platform for a group of women tackling matters relative to women’s conditions.
1913
Chile: The Spanish-born anti-clerical, freethinking writer Belén de Sárraga arrives in Chile: she gives a series of talks on secularism and freethought. At her instigation, the Women Freethinkers’ League of Valparaíso is launched, as is the Women’s Anti-Clerical Centre. In Antofagasta, a ‘Belén de Sárraga’ Women’s Centre is opened. At the same time, similar centres open in Iquique and elsewhere in northern Chile.
Paraguay: The first working women’s organisations (Papermakers and United Perfume-makers, United Cigarette-makers, United Seamstresses) emerge. The women trouser-makers and waistcoat-makers join the Garment Workers’ Resistance Society.
1914
Brazil: Embroidery-worker Angelina Soares gets involved in the anarchist struggle, writing for the newspaper Germinal-Barricata published by her brother Florentino, in Portuguese and Italian. She also writes in different São Paulo anarchist press organs. She helps launch and leads the Women’s Education Centre.
Chile: The Iquique Anti-Clerical Centre lays on an evening event with Belén de Sárraga, generating much upset and outrage in clerical and conservative quarters in the town.
Peru: The Female Cooks’ Union is set up by way of a protest at an order issued by the governor banning working women from associating freely.
1915
Uruguay: In Montevideo, the newspaper La Batalla “a newspaper of ideas and criticisms” appears under the guidance of the campaigning anarchist María Collazo.
Belén de Sárraga’s America a través de un continente begins to circulate. The book is the result of her travels through Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Panama, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Argentina and Chile.
1916
Chile: A ‘Louise Michel’ Centre for the Instruction of Freethinking Women is launched in Iquique.
Mexico: The ‘Mujeres Acratas’ (Anarchist Women) group is formed: attached to the Casa del Obrero Mundial, it is headed by the seamstress Esther Torres.
1917
Mexico: Juana Belén Gutiérrez de Mendoza secures funding and land for an Experimental Communal Farming Colony. The project founders for want of trade union support. Puerto Rico’s Luisa Capetilla has a similar notion but she too fails to raise interest from the trade union leadership. Both projects are viewed as “overly idealistic”.
1918
Emergence of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) which proclaims that one of its essential missions is to end the differential pay rates for women and to create the appropriate conditions to “afford equal opportunity to all human beings, regardless of race, creed or gender”. The principle of “equal pay for equal work” will have to wait until 1951 and the convention passed by member states on the issue. But even now, implementation is awaited.
Brazil: Elvira Boni de Lacerda, an anarchist woman leader, joins with Elisa Gonçalves de Oliveira, Aida Morais, Isabel Peleteiro, Noemia Lopes, Carmen Ribeiro and others to found the Seamstresses’, Furriers’ and Allied Trades Union.
Mexico: 16 August sees the opening of the Women’s Radical Centre, part of the anarcho-syndicalist Casa del Obrero Mundial school of thought. The Centre brings out a newspaper El Iconoclasta that claims to be produced by “eager female fighters and designed to raise the consciousness of women enslaved by Roman vampirism” (a reference to Catholic clergy sucking on women’s blood?)
Peru: In the town of Huacho the ‘Luz y Libertad’ (Light and Freedom) Women’s Centre is set up. Of anarchist inspiration, it is chaired by Luzmilla La Rosa.
1919
Brazil: A seamstresses’ strike led by the Seamstresses’, Furriers’ and Allied Trades Union erupts, gaining improved pay and the 8-hour day.
Peru: An anarchist-inspired Women’s Campaign for Cheap Subsistence Committee is formed. It agrees to summon “a women’s hunger rally.”
Puerto Rico: Under the guidance of Emilia Hernández and Genara Pagán the First Congress of Puerto Rican Working Women meets, under the auspices of the Free Workers’ Federation (FLT). One resolution passed calls for equal rights for men and women, including the right to vote.
1920
Brazil: The III Brazilian Labour Congress, in which a delegation from the Seamstresses’, Furriers’ and Allied Trades Union takes part. Elvira Boni de Lacerda chairs the closing session.
1921
Argentina: A group of women headed by Juana Rouco Buela, launches the Argentinean Social Studies Centre which gives birth to the anarchist newspaper Nuestra Tribuna (1922-24), described as dealing with “Ideas, Art, Criticism and Literature”. This is the first anarchist publication that is international in character. Like La Voz de Mujer it comes in for a lot of criticism and triggers a controversy in anarchist circles. The publication also wrestles with funding difficulties and the refusal of a press to carry on publishing it as a result of police threats. The final edition appears in November 1923. Juana Rouco and her family are forced to quit Buenos Aires.
Chile: Launch of the Working Women’s Union Federation, backed by the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW).
1924
Argentina: Nuestra Tribuna resurfaces in Tandil on 1 November, albeit that it is short-lived. It grapples with lots of problems. The newspaper’s premises come under gun attack from a group opposed to its thinking. It ceases circulation.
1925
Bolivia: In the Oruro disrict the II Labour Congress is held. It draws only two women delegates - Angélica Ascui and María de Macedo - who denounce the exploitation of women and children in industry. They demand legislation in favour of pregnant working women, the establishment of people’s universities and schools for the working class.
Argentina: In Buenos Aires, Nuestra Tribuna embarks upon its third phase and publishes three issues. This is a difficult time for anarchism which is entering a decline.
1927
Bolivia: Establishment of the Women’s Labour Federation (FOF), a wing of the pro-anarchist Local Labour Federation (FOL), most of whose members are drawn from domestic service, women market traders and cooks. They agree to operate autonomously of the men’s organisations. In addition to raising a schedule of work demands, they call for absolute divorce, the setting up of nurseries and for all children of either sex to be equal before the law.
1936
Bolivia: Launch of the Women’s Florists’ Union. The female anarchist leader Petronila Infantes launches the Kitchen Staff Trade Union, demanding fixed hours. The Labour Congress meeting in La Paz agrees to lobby for “universalisation of Sundays off”, the 8-hour day, the inclusion of domestic servants in social legislation and the replacement of the term ‘domestic’ by ‘housework employee’
1937
Bolivia: During a FOL demonstration, anarchist leader Petronila Infantes opens her address with the words “To my proletarian women comrades”, invoking the exploitation suffered by women paid less than their male counterparts. “Women are shackled by the heaviest, blackest, foulest chains … And the remedy lies in rebellion.”
1940
Bolivia: At the end of the war in the Chaco, the FOF is relaunched with additional women’s trade union branches.
1947
Chile: With the Gabriel González Videla dictatorship at its height, the ‘Louise Michel’ Libertarian Athenaeum opens in Iquique to “address the needs of female weavers”, under the leadership of Flora Sanhueza, one of the most outstanding anarchists. She was arrested and ‘disappeared’ in 1973 during Augusto Pinochet’s dictatorship.
1964
Argentina: Publication of Juana Rouco Buela’s autobiography Historia de un ideal vivido por una mujer (The Story of an Ideal as Lived by a Woman).
1968
Argentina: Juana Rouco Buela dies at the age of 80.
From: www.rojoynegro.info/. Translated by: Paul Sharkey.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "OpenWebText2"
}
|
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell Addison (Mitch) Mitchell McConnellOcasio-Cortez to voters: Tell McConnell 'he is playing with fire' with Ginsburg's seat McConnell locks down key GOP votes in Supreme Court fight Video shows NYC subway station renamed after Ruth Bader Ginsburg MORE (R-Ky.) is moving to banking reform legislation — not gun control or other responses to the high school shooting in Florida — next week in the Senate.
McConnell has filed a motion to have a procedural vote Tuesday on legislation sponsored by Senate Banking Committee Chairman Mike Crapo Michael (Mike) Dean CrapoBottom line Davis: The Hall of Shame for GOP senators who remain silent on Donald Trump Top GOP senator urges agencies to protect renters, banks amid coronavirus aid negotiations MORE (R-Idaho). After that, McConnell hopes to move to legislation addressing sex trafficking, according to GOP sources.
ADVERTISEMENT
Legislation addressing the Florida high school shooting, the subject of contentious conversations between President Trump Donald John TrumpBiden leads Trump by 36 points nationally among Latinos: poll Trump dismisses climate change role in fires, says Newsom needs to manage forest better Jimmy Kimmel hits Trump for rallies while hosting Emmy Awards MORE and GOP lawmakers at a White House meeting televised live on cable news Wednesday, will wait.
A Senate GOP aide said a limited bill to strengthen background checks for firearms purchases could come to the floor at any moment as soon as Democrats agree to let it move forward.
McConnell on Tuesday blamed Democrats for preventing the proposal, sponsored by Senate Republican Whip John Cornyn John CornynCalls grow for Biden to expand election map in final sprint Bipartisan praise pours in after Ginsburg's death Chamber of Commerce endorses McSally for reelection MORE (R-Texas) and Democratic Sen. Chris Murphy Christopher (Chris) Scott MurphyDemocratic senator calls for 'more flexible' medical supply chain to counter pandemics The Hill's 12:30 Report - Presented by Facebook - Don't expect a government check anytime soon GOP chairman to release interim report on Biden probe 'in about a week' MORE (Conn.), from coming to the floor.
“We tried to get it cleared yesterday, but the Democratic leader objected,” McConnell said.
Democrats vigorously dispute that and say that conservatives led by Sen. Mike Lee Michael (Mike) Shumway LeeMcConnell shores up GOP support for coronavirus package McConnell tries to unify GOP Davis: The Hall of Shame for GOP senators who remain silent on Donald Trump MORE (R-Utah) objected to moving the Cornyn-Murphy bill.
Either way, that legislation is not seen as a huge step on gun violence by most lawmakers. It would give local and federal authorities more incentive to report relevant information to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). Trump on Wednesday suggested that additions should be made to the bill as he spoke with Cornyn.
Yet even that legislation has its opponents in the Senate.
Conservative Sen. Rand Paul Randal (Rand) Howard PaulSecond GOP senator to quarantine after exposure to coronavirus GOP senator to quarantine after coronavirus exposure The Hill's Morning Report - Sponsored by National Industries for the Blind - Trump seeks to flip 'Rage' narrative; Dems block COVID-19 bill MORE (R-Ky.) on Thursday said he had serious due process concerns over the potential that veterans diagnosed with post-traumatic stress symptoms could be blocked as a group from buying firearms.
“You can’t take gun rights away in bulk. If you say everyone that has PTSD that’s a veteran, all their data will be dumped into a database and it will show up on a background check, that’s a problem,” he said.
“I’m for taking away gun rights from violent people but you have to do it one at a time, you can’t do it in bulk,” he said.
Senate Democratic Leader Charles Schumer Chuck SchumerRepublican senator says plans to confirm justice before election 'completely consistent with the precedent' Video of Lindsey Graham arguing against nominating a Supreme Court justice in an election year goes viral Graham signals support for confirming a Supreme Court nominee this year MORE (D-N.Y.) says he supports the Fix NICS legislation but warned earlier this week that it falls far short of what is needed to stop mass shootings such a the one that left 17 people dead at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida.
“If that is all Congress does, we won’t have done our job to keep America’s families safe,” he said.
He called the bill “fine” but “certainly not enough.”
Republicans are divided over what to do on gun legislation.
Some Republicans such as Lee, Paul and Sen. John Kennedy John Neely KennedyMORE (La.) say the Fix NICS bill is flawed.
Other Republicans, such as Sen. Jeff Flake Jeffrey (Jeff) Lane FlakeJeff Flake: Republicans 'should hold the same position' on SCOTUS vacancy as 2016 Republican former Michigan governor says he's voting for Biden Maybe they just don't like cowboys: The president is successful, some just don't like his style MORE (Ariz.), want to go further by also raising the age requirement for buying rifles from age 18 to 21.
Sen. Pat Toomey Patrick (Pat) Joseph ToomeyAppeals court rules NSA's bulk phone data collection illegal Dunford withdraws from consideration to chair coronavirus oversight panel GOP senators push for quick, partial reopening of economy MORE (R-Pa.) thinks his bill co-sponsored with Sen. Joe Manchin Joseph (Joe) ManchinNames to watch as Trump picks Ginsburg replacement on Supreme Court Momentum growing among Republicans for Supreme Court vote before Election Day Gardner on court vacancy: Country needs to mourn Ginsburg 'before the politics begin' MORE (D-W.Va.) to extend mandatory background checks to include sales at gun shows and over the internet, should get priority.
Many Republican senators, however, say they oppose rising the mandatory age for buying rifles or requiring background checks for gun shows and online sales.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "OpenWebText2"
}
|
1. Introduction {#sec1}
===============
In a wireless ad hoc network, the nodes can communicate with each other without the support of infrastructure. Since the wireless channel is shared by all the nodes in the network, a medium access control (MAC) plays an important role in coordinating access among the nodes so that information gets through from one node to another \[[@B1]\]. Usually each node is able to communicate with each other\'s node when all nodes are spread around a geographic range. However, nodes could spread over larger geographic range than the communication signal can reach. In this case, the nodes could have communication over multiple hops. However, there is only one medium that is shared by all the nodes that are in the same radio communication range and the radio frequency bandwidth is limited. Furthermore, packet collisions are unavoidable due to the fact that traffic arrivals are random and there is nonzero propagation time between transmitters and receivers. Therefore, MAC schemes are used to coordinate the access to the channel in the network \[[@B2]\].
The tendency of the MAC protocols for wireless ad hoc networks is using adaptive systems to adjust the transmission parameters (multirate) and the objective is to maximize the throughput in the use of the channel. Rate adaptation is indispensable to optimally exploit the scarce wireless resources under instable channel conditions. Rate adaptation consists of assessing the wireless channel conditions and selecting the most appropriate data rate. Moreover, in the MAC protocols, the low throughput in the region of low traffic is because there is no more information for sending (this is not due to errors of the multiuser interference). So the system performance is limited by the access technique used in wireless ad hoc networks \[[@B3]\]. To address this problem, we use a rate adaptation to optimize throughput requirements. Then, the problem can be formulated as an optimization problem; that is, minimize the resources consumption considering the power, interference, data rate, and energy ensuring the signal to interference ratio in an ad hoc network. The multirate in ad hoc networks has been addressed in \[[@B4]--[@B9]\]; these protocols were proposed to maximize the throughput by adapting the rate based on the channel, but they do not address the energy issue.
The MAC protocol plays a critical role in a wireless ad hoc network considering bandwidth efficiency, resolving collisions, resources allocation, power transmission, interference, energy, data rate, and distance. In most standardized wireless ad hoc networks, such as in the widely deployed IEEE 802.11 networks, only one node is allowed to transmit in a given time slot, while in CSMA-CDMA (carrier sense multiple access-code division multiple access) protocol more than one node can transmit; that is, more than one simultaneous transmission can be achieved. Hence, CSMA-CDMA MAC protocol is employed for multihop wireless ad hoc networks \[[@B10]--[@B13]\].
Furthermore, power control is applied in a wireless ad hoc network to control transmission range (distance between the source and destination); on the other hand, it is useful to keep low interference levels to the neighboring nodes. Because CDMA systems are interference limited, power control also serves as a tool for interference management in CDMA systems to guarantee success of multiple concurrent transmissions \[[@B1]\]. Another parameter closely related with power transmission is the energy consumption. In critical environments such as military or rescue operations, where ad hoc networks will be typically used, conserving of battery power will be vital in order to make the network operational for long durations. Recharging or replacing batteries will not often be possible. The majority of work in the literature focuses on the protocol design and performance evaluation in terms of traditional metrics such as throughput, delay, power, energy, and distance. In this case, the literature analyzes these terms by separate. Some protocols related to these routing metrics have been proposed in \[[@B14]--[@B18]\].
In order to improve the performance (throughput) of an ad hoc network, we use a MAC protocol based on CDMA with an efficient evolutionary algorithm for transmission rate election. In this evolutionary optimization algorithm, we control the transmission rate and handle the spreading factor or processing gain (*P* ~*G*~) for a MAC scheme based on CSMA-CDMA ad hoc networks and we take a perfect control power into account.
Modern evolutionary optimization techniques have aroused great interest among the scientific and technical community in a wide variety of fields for the last years because of their ability to solve problems with a nonlinear and nonconvex dependence of design parameters. Several optimization techniques have emerged in the past two decades that mimic biological evolution or the way biological entities communicate in nature. Some of these algorithms have been used successfully in many electromagnetism and network problems with many constraints and nonlinear processes. The most representative algorithm includes genetic algorithms (GA) \[[@B19]\], among others.
Therefore, in this work, we present a genetic algorithm that solves the problem of power combining, interference, data rate, and energy ensuring the signal to interference ratio in an ad hoc network and we use Dijkstra\'s algorithm to make the search and discovery of the route.
The remainder of this paper is organized as follows. In [Section 2](#sec2){ref-type="sec"}, we introduce the model for the MAC protocol based on CSMA-CDMA considering a perfect power control. The operation of proposed protocol is presented in [Section 3](#sec3){ref-type="sec"}. [Section 4](#sec4){ref-type="sec"} presents the genetic algorithm for the transmission rate election. [Section 5](#sec5){ref-type="sec"} presents the simulations performed and the results obtained. Finally, we present the conclusions of our work in [Section 6](#sec6){ref-type="sec"}.
2. MAC Protocol Considering a Perfect Power Control {#sec2}
===================================================
In a system based on CSMA-CDMA, the CSMA protocol is used to access the channel and reserve it for a communication between two nodes. Instead, the function of CDMA is to assign a code to each node so they can transmit simultaneously.
The CSMA protocol operation is as follows: when a node wants to transmit its data, it monitors the channel state. If the channel is idle for a time period that is equal to a distributed interframes space, the node transmits the request-to-send (RTS) packet after a random period called backoff. If the channel is not idle, the node defers its transmission. If the destination node detects an RTS packet, it responds with a clear-to-send (CTS) packet. The transmission will only start after the CTS packet is correctly received. Moreover, the packets RTS and CTS carry the information of the duration of the packet to be transmitted. This information can be read by each node, which is then able to update their network allocation vector (NAV) containing the information of the period of time in which the channel will remain busy.
In the CDMA protocol, the simultaneous transmission of packet by different nodes is allowed. Therefore, it is necessary for a code assignment mechanism to assign distinct codes to different nodes. Several code assignment mechanisms have been previously proposed \[[@B20], [@B21]\] and we have used the receiver-transmitter-based mechanism.
Considering the previously mentioned, in this paper, the MAC protocol for ad hoc networks is based on CSMA-CDMA with different transmission rates. Furthermore, we consider a perfect control power and an error-free channel. The operation of the protocol MAC is as follows.
Assuming that node A has generated a packet and it needs to transmit to node B, thennode A contends for the allocation of a code. This code is selected randomly from a code table;node A sends a RTS message informing the neighboring nodes of its intention to transmit, code selected, transmission duration, and destination node (node B). Node A changes its state to receive the response message (CTS) from node B. If node A does not receive the CTS message, it assumes that there was a collision and applies the backoff mechanism. This step (Step 2) will run until it has received the reply from node B or until the lifetime of the packet has expired;node B receives the RTS message; it sends the reply message (CTS) and informs the neighboring nodes that will be occupied (attending node A);node A determines the number of active neighboring nodes. With this number, it can obtain an optimal transmission rate according to the genetic algorithm. Then, it sends data packet to node B;once B receives the packets, it sends an ACK (acknowledgement) message to inform node A that the packets were successfully received and the code is released;if A does not receive the ACK message, it returns to Step 2 until the transmission turns successful or until the packet expires.
Furthermore, we need to propose an algorithm to obtain the transmission rate for each node. Therefore, if a node needs to transmit a packet, it calculates the number of neighboring nodes trying to transmit in a time slot. With this number, it is possible to obtain the best transmission rate combination for each node \[[@B3]\]. This combination of transmission rates should maximize the throughput and it is based on the nodes that transmit at different rates as well as the bit error probability (*P* ~*b*~) or bit error rate (BER) as it is often called. The use of the Gaussian approximation to determine *P* ~*b*~ is based on the argument that the decision statistic and the multiple access interference may be modeled as a Gaussian random variable. Therefore, considering that the system is limited by interference and noise is neglected, the bit error probability used for a fixed rate of transmission is given by \[[@B22]\] $$\begin{matrix}
{P_{b}\left( n \right) = Q\left( \sqrt{3\frac{P_{G}}{n - 1}} \right),} \\
\end{matrix}$$ where *n* is the number of simultaneous nodes, *P* ~*G*~ is the processing gain and it is defined as the ratio of the transmission bandwidth to the information bandwidth, and *Q* is the error function given by $$\begin{matrix}
{Q\left( x \right) = \frac{1}{\sqrt{2\pi}}{\int\limits_{x}^{\infty}{e^{- {u^{2}/2}}du}},} \\
\end{matrix}$$ where ([2](#EEq2){ref-type="disp-formula"}) is in terms of *u*, and this indicates the variable of the function to be integrated and defined in \[[@B23]\].
The correctly detecting probability of a packet containing *L* bits is $$\begin{matrix}
{P_{d}\left( n \right) = \left\lbrack {1 - P_{b}\left( n \right)} \right\rbrack^{L}.} \\
\end{matrix}$$
In the CSMA-CDMA protocol, when the channel has a low traffic, a high processing gain is not necessary in the system because there is a low multiuser interference. Then, the processing gain (protection against multiuser interference) depends on the traffic conditions in the channel. Therefore, the system performance can be improved by using an adaptive transmission rate according to load conditions in the channel. Therefore, through genetic algorithms, it is possible to obtain the rate at which each node must transmit in an ad hoc network compared to \[[@B3]\] where it used exhaustive search.
Up to now, we have analyzed the CSMA-CDMA protocol with perfect power control to obtain the transmission rate for each node. In next section, we present the problem of power combining, interference, data rate, and energy ensuring the signal to interference ratio in a multihop ad hoc wireless network for the MAC protocol based on CSMA-CDMA as medium access technique with the ability to route packets.
3. Proposed Protocol {#sec3}
====================
3.1. Operation {#sec3.1}
--------------
Assuming that node A has generated a packet and it needs to transmit to node B, which is out of node A transmission range, thennode A contends for the allocation of a code. This code is selected randomly from a code table. If a primary collision is present, then the nodes use a backoff mechanism to retransmit \[[@B24]\];node A performs the route discovery based on the minimum distance, the same way as the link state routing protocol (Dijkstra). This means that the node source finds the route to its destination hop by hop through the minimum path until it reaches its destination node;once the route is obtained, the algorithm optimizes the power, interference, transmission rate, and energy of the nodes that forward packets to destination node B;node A sends the RTS message to the next node of the route. This process is repeated consecutively until it reaches node B. Node A changes its state to receive the CTS message;node B receives the RTS message and it responds with a CTS message;node A receives the CTS message and starts sending data packets. If node A receives no response from node B, it assumes that there was collision and retransmits the RTS message;once the RTS-CTS dialog is completed, B starts to receive data packets and responds with an ACK message to inform node A that the packets have been received successfully;if A receives no acknowledgement (ACK) from B, it waits for a random time to retransmit and repeat the process from Step 4;once B receives the packets, it sends an ACK message to inform node A that the packets were successfully received and if there are no more packets to send, the code is released.
3.2. System Model {#sec3.2}
-----------------
It is considered a wireless ad hoc network where there are *M* nodes participating in routing and *N* active nodes in the system. It should be mentioned that *M* nodes that participate in routing are determined in the phase of path discovery, and each node knows the neighbor nodes. This path discovery is assumed to be executed at the beginning of the simulation. We considered a link state routing algorithm, and all nodes know the detailed information of the network, topology, nodes neighboring, distance between them, and so forth. Moreover, the gain on the communication link between node *i* and node *j* is given by *g* ~*ij*~. All the *g* ~*ij*~ are positive. The transmission powers of node *i* and node *j* are denoted by *p* ~*i*~ and *p* ~*j*~, respectively. The current signal to interference ratio (SIR) \[[@B25]\] between node *i* and node *j*, *γ* ~*ij*~, is the ratio between the power received from transmitter *i* at receiver *j* and the received interference caused by neighboring nodes plus noise power at receiver *j*, and it is determined by $$\begin{matrix}
{\gamma_{ij} = \frac{W}{R_{ij}}\frac{g_{ij}p_{ij}}{\sum_{x = 1,x \neq j,x \neq i}^{N}{g_{jx}p_{jx} + \sigma_{j}}},\quad i = 1,2,3,\ldots,M,} \\
\end{matrix}$$ where *R* ~*ij*~ is the data rate used to transmit from node *i* to node *j*, *W* is the total spread spectrum bandwidth occupied by CDMA, *σ* ~*j*~ is the noise power at receiver *j*, and *p* ~*ij*~ and *p* ~*jx*~ are, respectively, the received powers of the transmissions between nodes *i* and *j* and nodes *j* and *x*.
On the other hand, if noise power at receiver *j* is neglected because its value is very small, then we have $$\begin{matrix}
{\gamma_{ij} = \frac{W}{R_{ij}}\frac{g_{ij}p_{ij}}{\sum_{x = 1,x \neq j,x \neq i}^{N}{g_{jx}p_{jx}}},\quad i = 1,2,3,\ldots,M,} \\
\end{matrix}$$ and the channel gain is determined by $$\begin{matrix}
{g_{ij} = d_{ij}^{- \propto},} \\
\end{matrix}$$ where *d* ~*ij*~ is the distance between nodes *i* and *j* and *α* is the attenuation coefficient.
We assume that each node should achieve the target SIR, *γ* ~*ij*~ ^*t*^, from node *i* along the route to node *j* as follows: $$\begin{matrix}
{\gamma_{ij} \geq \gamma_{ij}^{t},\quad i = 1,2,\ldots,M,\,\, i \neq j.} \\
\end{matrix}$$
A power vector **P** and a transmission rate vector **R** are used such that they satisfy the criterion expressed in ([7](#EEq7){ref-type="disp-formula"}), where the power vector must comply as follows: $$\begin{matrix}
{p_{\min} \leq p_{i} \leq p_{\max}.} \\
\end{matrix}$$
The **R** vector must satisfy the next criterion as follows: $$\begin{matrix}
{R_{\min} \leq R_{ij} \leq R_{\max}.} \\
\end{matrix}$$
Considering that each node can choose its rate transmission and power within *K* possibilities, one has $$\begin{matrix}
{p_{i} \in \left\{ {p_{i}^{1},p_{i}^{2},\ldots,p_{i}^{K}} \right\},} \\
{R_{i} \in \left\{ {r_{i}^{1},r_{i}^{2},\ldots,r_{i}^{K}} \right\}.} \\
\end{matrix}$$
4. Genetic Algorithm {#sec4}
====================
The main purpose of this study is to solve the problem of power combining, interference, data rate, and energy ensuring the signal to interference ratio in an ad hoc network. For this purpose, we propose to use a population-based stochastic procedure denominated genetic algorithm (GA) \[[@B19]\]. We chose this algorithm for its easiness of implementation. The procedure for the used GA technique ([Figure 1](#fig1){ref-type="fig"}) is described as follows.
The function Generate Initial Population randomly and uniformly generates a set of individuals.
The main idea in Classify Individuals is to rank the individuals according to their fitness value.
A selection scheme combining fitness ranking and elitist selection \[[@B19]\] is implemented instead of a common weighted roulette wheel selection.
The function Update Population assigns ranks to individuals in the population generated by the union of parents and children. This is in order to hold the best individuals in each generation. Golberg \[[@B19]\] explains the procedures involved in each step of this algorithm in detail. The individual representations as well as the crossover and mutation operators are explained in the following subsections.
4.1. Individual Representation and Decoding {#sec4.1}
-------------------------------------------
### 4.1.1. Perfect Power Control {#sec4.1.1}
For a number of desired transmission rate combinations, *t*, with a population *P* of size *n*, each individual (combination of transmission rates) is expressed as $$\begin{matrix}
{P = \begin{bmatrix}
C_{1} \\
C_{2} \\
\vdots \\
C_{n} \\
\end{bmatrix},} \\
\end{matrix}$$ where *C* ~1~ ⋯ *C* ~*n*~ represents each individual as potential solution. Moreover, *C* represents the combinations of transmission rates as individuals. Consider $$\begin{matrix}
{C = \left\lbrack {k_{1R}\cdots k_{tR}} \right\rbrack,} \\
\end{matrix}$$ where *k* nodes transmit at *t* times the basic rate (*R*).
On the other hand, the bandwidth, *W*, is given as $$\begin{matrix}
{W = P_{G} \cdot R,} \\
\end{matrix}$$ where *P* ~*G*~ is processing gain, *R* is the transmission rate, and the bandwidth (*W*) must be constant.
So the basic transmission rate is expressed in terms of processing gain as follows: $$\begin{matrix}
{R = \frac{W}{P_{G}}.} \\
\end{matrix}$$
Therefore, the individuals in ([11](#EEq12){ref-type="disp-formula"}) are encoded in binary form so that the individual of population ([12](#EEq13){ref-type="disp-formula"}) is transformed into a single binary string.
### 4.1.2. Power Combining {#sec4.1.2}
In this case, we consider the transmission rates and powers as individuals and potential solutions to the previously presented problem. Furthermore, they must comply with target SIR ([7](#EEq7){ref-type="disp-formula"}).
The vector **R** and vector **P** are transformed into binary numbers or strings; that is, they are encoded in a binary form. The chromosomes *A* ~*i*~ and *B* ~*i*~ are used to represent the vectors **R** and **P**, respectively, where *i* represents an individual. Moreover, *A* ~*i*~ = *a* ~1~, *a* ~2~,..., *a* ~*l*~, where *a* ~1~, *a* ~2~,..., *a* ~*l*~ is the binary representation of length *l* for the rate transmission *R* ~*i*~, and *B* ~*i*~ = *b* ~1~, *b* ~2~,..., *b* ~*l*~, where *b* ~1~, *b* ~2~,..., *b* ~*l*~ is the binary representation for power *p* ~*i*~ \[[@B25]\].
The individuals for power population and rate transmission population are given by $$\begin{matrix}
{A = \begin{bmatrix}
A_{1} \\
A_{2} \\
\vdots \\
A_{T} \\
\end{bmatrix},} \\
{B = \begin{bmatrix}
B_{1} \\
B_{2} \\
\vdots \\
B_{T} \\
\end{bmatrix},} \\
\end{matrix}$$ where *T* is the population size.
4.2. Genetic Operators {#sec4.2}
----------------------
The used genetic operators are standard; the well-known two-point crossover \[[@B19]\] along with a single mutation where a locus is randomly selected and the allele is replaced by a random number is uniformly distributed in the feasible region.
4.3. Objective Function {#sec4.3}
-----------------------
### 4.3.1. Perfect Power Control {#sec4.3.1}
The objective function (of) for maximizing the performance of the transmission rates combination is given by $$\begin{matrix}
{\text{of} = \max S.} \\
\end{matrix}$$
Evaluating the performance *S* (throughput) for a transmission rates combination *t*, considering a perfect power control, is determined as the average of the correctly detecting probability of each node that transmits with different rates \[[@B22]\] as follows: $$\begin{matrix}
{S_{t} = {\sum\limits_{t}^{t_{\max}}{n_{tR}P_{d,tR}L}},} \\
\end{matrix}$$ where *S* ~*t*~ is the performance for the given combination of transmission rates, *n* ~*tR*~ is number of nodes transmitting *t* times the transmission basic rate *R*, *P* ~*d*,*tR*~ is the correctly detecting probability of a packet transmitted at *t* times the transmission basic rate *R*, *L* is packet length, and *t* ~max~ is the maximum value that can increase the basic rate.
Therefore, the procedure to find the optimal transmission rate is as follows.Generate a population of random combinations of transmission rates.Calculate the fitness (*S* ~*t*~) of the population generated.Apply genetic operators to the population by keeping the fittest individuals (best solutions).Iterate Steps 2 and 3 the number of generations desired.
The result of this algorithm for each number of nodes is stored in a table. Therefore, depending on the number of the nodes that are transmitting in an instant of time, the nodes automatically will select the appropriate transmission rate.
### 4.3.2. Power Combining {#sec4.3.2}
The objective function (of) used to minimize the resources consumption in each hop is as follows: $$\begin{matrix}
{\text{of} = {{\min}\left( {\text{abs}\left( {\gamma_{ij} - \gamma_{ij}^{t}} \right) + E_{ij}} \right)}.} \\
\end{matrix}$$
To evaluate each individual (power and rate) and the energy consumed through a path, we apply ([19](#EEq21){ref-type="disp-formula"}) (fitness). This equation represents an evaluation function for each possible solution obtained from the transmission rate and power calculated by each node. It is important to mention that, through this formulation, the genetic algorithm will tend to choose those solutions that require lower power, lower energy, and higher transmission rate, depending on the quality of the link (SIR). Consider $$\begin{matrix}
{\text{Fit}_{i} = \text{abs}\left( {\gamma_{ij} - \gamma_{ij}^{t}} \right) + E_{ij},} \\
\end{matrix}$$ where *E* ~*ij*~ is the energy needed to transmit from node *i* to node *j*. To calculate the energy, we consider that the power transmission between nodes *i* and *j* is *p* ~*ij*~, *R* ~*ij*~ is the transmission rate used to transmit from node *i* to node *j*, *P* ~*d*~(*γ* ~*ij*~) is the probability of correctly detecting a packet, with *γ* ~*ij*~ being equal to the SIR of link (*i*, *j*), and *L* denotes the packet length. Moreover, the number of transmissions necessary to receive a packet correctly is a random variable, *D*. If all transmissions are statistically independent, *D* is a geometric random variable. So the expected value of *D* is *E*\[*D*\] = 1/*P* ~*d*~(*γ* ~*ij*~). The total transmission time required for correct reception is the random variable *DL*/*R* ~*ij*~. With the transmitted power *p* ~*ij*~, the energy expended is the random variable *p* ~*ij*~ *DL*/*R* ~*ij*~ with expected value *E*\[*D*\]*Lp* ~*ij*~/*R* ~*ij*~ = *Lp* ~*ij*~/\[*R* ~*ij*~ *P* ~*d*~(*γ* ~*ij*~)\]. Therefore, energy *E* ~*ij*~ is obtained by \[[@B26]\] $$\begin{matrix}
{E_{ij} = \frac{LP_{ij}}{R_{ij}P_{d}\left( \gamma_{ij} \right)}.} \\
\end{matrix}$$
Energy ([20](#EEq22){ref-type="disp-formula"}) is in function of the transmission rate, and *P* ~*d*~(*γ* ~*ij*~) is given by $$\begin{matrix}
{P_{c}\left( \gamma_{ij} \right) = \left( {1 - 2\text{BER}_{ij}} \right)^{L},} \\
\end{matrix}$$ where BER~*ij*~ is the bit error rate for the link (*i*, *j*). The BER is expressed as follows: $$\begin{matrix}
{\text{BER}_{ij} = {0.5e}^{- {\gamma_{ij}/2}}.} \\
\end{matrix}$$
Therefore, the main steps of the procedure of the proposed optimization algorithm are as follows.Generate populations of transmission rate (**R**) and power (**P**).Calculate the fitness of the population.Manipulate the individuals by genetic operators keeping the elite individuals.Repeat Steps 2 and 3 until the desired number of generations has been reached.
5. Simulations and Results {#sec5}
==========================
The first simulation is considering a perfect power control and the process of simulation was achieved by a program in MATLAB, on a personal computer, which considers a single hop ad hoc wireless network. We consider 160 nodes that are placed randomly in a square area of side length 150 meters. In this simulation, the nodes generate packets using a Pareto distribution. Additionally, we consider that the nodes are fixed. The preview concepts are applied to the simulation. Furthermore, a chip rate of 4.096 Mcps, four transmission rates (16, 32, 64, and 128 kbps), four processing gains (256, 128, 64, and 32), and the basic transmission rate of 16 kbps are employed.
For the genetic algorithm implemented, a population size of 50 individuals is used with 50 generations. Furthermore, crossover and mutation rates of 0.9 and 0.05 were used, respectively. These parameters have been selected following the recommendations of De Jong \[[@B27]\] and Grefenstette \[[@B28]\]. Furthermore, elitism is implemented in the genetic algorithm (GA) to ensure that the fitness of the population will not diminish from one generation to another. Elitism guarantees that the best individuals from the current generation are going to survive to the next generation. Therefore, with elitism is united the population of parents and children and half of them selected. The result of the simulation is shown in [Figure 2](#fig2){ref-type="fig"}.
[Figure 2](#fig2){ref-type="fig"} shows the throughput behavior with proposed genetic algorithm (GA) for transmission rate election, and we observe a better performance with respect to fixed rates and the throughput is normalized with respect to maximum capacity of the system. Furthermore, [Figure 2](#fig2){ref-type="fig"} illustrates that our proposed GA achieves improvement of 10% as compared with the basic scheme \[[@B13]\]. This is because the transmission rate with the basic scheme is obtained in the handshaking phase, where the node attempts to transmit with the maximum value of rate and if there is a fail in the handshaking phase, then the node decreases its transmission rate. When the node has success in the handshaking phase, it increases its transmission rate. Therefore, the basic scheme is a trial-and-error process. Unlike the basic scheme, in the proposed GA, the optimum transmission rate of each node is obtained and ensures that it will not affect the multiuser interference. Furthermore, during low traffic channel, nodes increase their transmission rates. As traffic increases, processing gain also increases, obtaining as a result a dynamic CDMA system bandwidth control.
The following simulation considers the combination of power, interference, data rate, and energy. The maximum power is 100 mW and the minimum power is 5 mW. The thermal noise is neglected. The target SIR (signal to interference ratio) was set to 3.918 dB. The attenuation coefficient *α* was set to 2. The channel gain only is in function of the distance. Therefore, fading is not considered. The transmission rates are 1200, 1800, 2400, 4800, 7200, 9600, and 14400 bps. The network was considered as a multihop network for this simulation, in which the routing technique used for routing data packets is based on minimum path. In this work, Dijkstra\'s algorithm for routing is implemented.
The genetic algorithm assigns powers and transmission rates considering the standard IS-95. The population size is of 50 individuals; crossover probability and mutation are of 0.95 and 0.05, respectively \[[@B27], [@B28]\]. The termination criterion is 50 generations. The individual length for the power was set to 7 bits and in the case of transmission rate is 3 bits.
An obtained result of the genetic algorithm is shown in [Figure 3](#fig3){ref-type="fig"}. This result confirms the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
[Figure 3](#fig3){ref-type="fig"} shows that when fitness decreases SIR approaches to the desired value; therefore, the node only uses the resource needed to reach the destination node without interfering with their neighbors. This is shown in [Figure 4](#fig4){ref-type="fig"}.
[Figure 4](#fig4){ref-type="fig"} illustrates the behavior of power with respect to generation number using genetic algorithms. It is observed how the power is minimized and thus the node does not cause interference to neighboring nodes or expend more energy than necessary. Furthermore, another consideration of the genetic algorithm is to increase the transmission rate, and this behavior can be seen in [Figure 5](#fig5){ref-type="fig"}. The behavior shown in [Figure 5](#fig5){ref-type="fig"} is the result of the genetic algorithm through 50 generations. In this graphic, we can see that the data rate is increased, while the power is decreased ([Figure 4](#fig4){ref-type="fig"}), which means that the SIR is fitted to a target with optimum parameters to achieve the best performance and throughput by the MAC protocol.
Furthermore, [Figure 6](#fig6){ref-type="fig"} shows the throughput of proposed protocol where codes are used to grant the channel access and genetic algorithms are applied to guarantee the signal to interference ratio (SIR) for a successful transmission. [Figure 6](#fig6){ref-type="fig"} shows the throughput behavior with proposed genetic algorithm (GA) for transmission multirate. The throughput is normalized with respect to maximum capacity of the system. Furthermore, during low traffic channel, nodes increase their transmission rates. As traffic increases, processing gain also increases, obtaining as a result a dynamic CDMA system bandwidth control. The proposed algorithm is compared with the CSMA-CDMA protocol without optimization. In CSMA-CDMA without optimization, as in \[[@B29]\], the nodes perform the RTS/CTS process and they adjust the power to reach their neighboring nodes but the SIR and the minimum energy are not guaranteed. Therefore, the CSMA-CDMA without optimization has a lower performance compared to our proposed GA (15%).
6. Conclusions {#sec6}
==============
This paper has presented a MAC protocol based on CSMA-CDMA considering a perfect power control. A genetic algorithm is used to obtain the optimal transmission rate for each node in an ad hoc network. In this proposed protocol, we control the transmission rate according to the offered traffic. The simulation results demonstrate that proposed MAC protocol performs better than traditional CSMA-CDMA with fixed rates and the proposed protocol outperforms conventional protocols for single hop. Moreover, a shortest path routing protocol is applied in this paper when the nodes communicate with each other using multihop links. The method of genetic algorithms is used to optimize the network resource. On the other hand, the paper presents an efficient MAC protocol based on CSMA-CDMA to achieve high performance.
Conflict of Interests
=====================
The authors declare that there is no conflict of interests regarding the publication of this paper.
{#fig1}
{#fig2}
{#fig3}
{#fig4}
{#fig5}
{#fig6}
[^1]: Academic Editor: T. O. Ting
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Central"
}
|
The purpose of our proposed study is to develop and test the feasibility and acceptability of the RHANI Wives intervention, a multi-session primary HIV prevention program for at-risk Indian wives. The RHANI Wives intervention will be adapted from HIV-IP, a U.S. women's HIV intervention with demonstrated effectiveness in promoting participants'sexual communication and condom use with main male partners. The project will be conducted in 2 phases. Phase 1 will involve adaptation and refinement of the RHANI Wives model and evaluation tools, based on formative research conducted with the target population and their affiliates, as well as a single cycle involving pilot testing a truncated version of the RHANI Wives model. Phase 2 of the study will involve assessment of the feasibility and acceptability of the RHANI Wives HIV prevention intervention for at-risk Indian wives via a cluster randomized trial conducted with 300 eligible women recruited from 12 neighborhood clusters within a single Mumbai slum community. The evaluation will involve assessment of intervention effects on a proximal likely safer sex-mediating behavior, marital sexual communication, via survey at baseline, posttest (6 weeks post-baseline) and at 3 month follow-up (4.5 months post-baseline), to determine the impact of the intervention versus the control on this variable. Exploratory analyses will be conducted to estimate the effect of the intervention on outcomes necessary for examination in an efficacy trial, women's marital condom use and STI. A process evaluation will also be undertaken to ensure quality control and to document program processes and participant response to program. Findings from this study will be used to support development of an NIH R01 for a larger efficacy trial of the RHANI Wives program.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "NIH ExPorter"
}
|
This invention relates to a lighting system, particularly one that uses a centralized light source and one or more light guides or light conductors to transmit the light from the light source to a remote location. More particularly, a high brightness light source is envisioned for use in the automotive field where one or more light guides will direct light from the source to various end uses such as headlamps, turn signal indicator lamps, tail lights, interior lamps, etc.
As will be described, the present invention finds particular applicability in retrofitting a conventional halogen incandescent headlamp assembly by using a substantial number of existing components and modifying the assembly to take advantage of the benefits of the centralized lighting system. It will be understood, however, that the invention may be advantageously employed in related environments and applications such as display lighting arrangements or the like without departing from the scope and intent of the subject invention.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,278,731 of Davenport and Hansler (the '731 patent) is assigned to the same assignee as the present application. The '731 patent describes a related retrofit lighting system, the details of the '731 patent being incorporated herein by reference. Generally, it discloses use of a planar mirror that directs light from the output end of a light guide to a curvilinear reflective surface, such as a parabola. The planar mirror is located at or near the focus of the parabolic reflective surface so that collimated light is reflected from the parabolic surface. The light then continues toward a lens that closes the headlamp assembly and the lens directs the light in a desired manner.
Glare is always a concern with regard to light emanating from a headlamp. Particularly, light rays directed from the headlamp and upwardly into the eyes of an oncoming motorist are generally referred to as glare. Therefore, it is necessary to effectively control or handle light rays that would otherwise contribute to glare.
Still another concern in the headlamp environment is to provide as much forward directed light or "punch" as possible. Small angled prisms on the lens provide only a slight re-direction of the light without a substantial loss in the brightness so that light that passes through these portions provides the "punch" to the light pattern. Lenticules, the lens-like elements provided on the lens, spread the light to complete the desired light pattern.
Headlamp design must also take into consideration the configuration of the reflective surface so that light that exits the light guide is effectively and efficiently reflected forward by the reflective surface. The low profile and aerodynamic design of automobiles does not always provide for a symmetric parabolic reflective surface. In those instances where an asymmetric parabolic arrangement is used, the distance from the light source (end of the light guide) to the edges of the reflective surface are not equal. The different dimensions to the parabolic reflective surface edges also result in unequal image sizing. Accordingly, special consideration must be given to this arrangement.
With all of these constraints, it is still necessary to provide an interim, retrofit arrangement that uses many of the optical components of existing headlamp systems. Only selected portions of a centralized lighting system are incorporated into known arrangements to minimize the cost of eventually converting to a complete, centralized lighting system in the future.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "USPTO Backgrounds"
}
|
2017 NFL Draft Player Profiles: Michigan St DL Malik McDowell
From now until the 2017 NFL Draft takes place, we hope to showcase as many prospects as possible and examine both their strengths and weaknesses. Most of these profiles will feature individuals that the Pittsburgh Steelers are likely to have an interest in, while a few others will be top-ranked players. If there is a player you would like us to analyze, let us know in the comments below
Malik McDowell/DL/Michigan State — 6’6”, 295 Lbs
The Good
-Elite, powerful hand usage along defensive line -Able to disengage quickly when locked up with OL to make plays -Great athleticism and closing speed for size -Good motor to track down ball carrier; motor revved high when locked in -Power to anchor against double teams and stuff gaps -Quick-twitch swim move to beat blockers when rushing the passer -Great frame with room to add bulk -Shown ability to play multiple positions along the DL; rush from three-point or standing up
The Bad
-Struggles with awareness along interior, can run past ball carrier -Pad level is hit or miss due to height; tends to stand up off the ball -Pass rush plan is mostly non-existent -Must develop secondary rush move to excel at next level -Tends to disappear for long stretches of play -Seemed to disengage last season due to ankle injury/lack of team success
Prior to the start of the 2016 season, Michigan State’s Malik McDowell was one of the early draft darlings for the 2017 NFL draft, considering how he dominated as a sophomore for the Spartans, playing a big role on one of the country’s best defenses that also happened to make an appearance in the College Football Playoff.
Unfortunately for Sparty, the eventual national champion Alabama Crimson Tide blew them out, but the hype train was starting to gain steam for McDowell at that point.
Despite being the big name heading into the fall, McDowell really didn’t take that next step forward that many were hoping he would, especially with a possible top 5 pick in the cards, should he have come out and dominated the college level for the second straight year.
Although he has the size, freakish athleticism and ideal tools to be a top 5 pick in this class and a future All-Pro defender, his junior season at Michigan State raised a lot of questions about his heart, work ethic and desire to be great as the 6-foot-6 defensive lineman often disappeared for stretches on a bad Spartan team.
That being said though, there’s plenty of solid tape available on McDowell, you just have to look closely, especially early in the year. As the season progressed, it seemed as though McDowell, dealing with an ankle injury, mailed it in. Can’t say I really blame him as the Spartans were disastrous this year and he had nothing to gain and everything to lose by risking further injury.
But when his motor is revved up and running hot, he’s a physical freak that is a serious problem for anyone lined up across from him.
McDowell has such a quick first step off the ball that he’s able to get onto the offensive lineman in a hurry. In the clip above, he’s able to knife through the gap, crossing the face of the Maryland offensive tackle for an unimpeded path into the backfield for the tackle for loss.
With his size, he shouldn’t be that smooth or move that fast, but it’s pretty crazy to see on tape when he’s locked in.
Against Furman, McDowell was a force all game long. While I understand that he should dominate an opponent like Furman considering his high level of talent, it’s nonetheless impressive to see him take over a game as a defensive tackle.
In the clip above, McDowell shows off his great hand usage right after the snap by understanding leverage and extension to keep the offensive lineman away from his body. Once he’s got enough room, he’s able to disengage, cross the face and show off his closing speed to bring down the running back behind the line of scrimmage.
This play alone had my jaw hitting the floor simply because of the closing speed from a guy standing 6’6” and weighing in at around 280 pounds. That’s just not right, especially from a defensive tackle.
Despite playing defensive tackle for much of his time at Michigan State, McDowell has the ability to play on the edge and in space due to his tremendous athleticism. In fact, take a look at hisspider charton athleticism. It screams “elite.”
When on the edge, he has the bend and lower body explosion to make something happen as a pass rusher despite not having much of a plan, or an arsenal of pass rush moves to work with.
Lining up across from Notre Dame left tackle Mike McGlinchey, a likely top 5 pick in the 2018 class, McDowell shows off his hand usage early, slapping away McGlinchey’s punch to then rip around his block. From there, McDowell is in run-the-arch mode to track down DeShone Kizer.
He might not look fluid here, but despite being off balance he runs the arch well to get pressure on Kizer.
Throughout his time at Michigan State, McDowell showed he could create pressure from the three-point stance, standing up or stunting. He just needs the right coaching at the next level to help him develop go-to moves that isn’t his swim move, which will likely get stopped repeatedly in the NFL due to his high pad level and linemen looking for it in pass-rush situations.
One area of McDowell’s game that I do have concerns with his is awareness. Too many times on tape during the 2016 season I saw him worrying more about his battle with the lineman across from him instead of disengaging to track down the ball carrier. It was almost as if he had a personal vendetta at times, which can be frustrating to watch when he’s playing around too much in the trenches.
This play from 2015 against Nebraska really stands out to me when it comes to his awareness issues.
While the running back is running right past him, McDowell is still in the middle of his rip move against the Nebraska lineman. You usually see this from guys with very limited chances at an NFL shot, not from someone who has the pedigree to be a top 5 pick in a draft year.
He has the ability to dominate whenever he wants.
Getting him to do it consistently is another thing.
Overall, I see McDowell as a top 5 pick without a doubt. He’s a guy that can be a game-changer up front, but with all that said, the questions about desire, work ethic and whispers about character concerns (despite never reportedly being in trouble off the field) will likely drop him into the middle of the first round.
Regardless of where he lands at the end of April, I expect him to make an impact immediately, much like former USC standout Leonard Williams — now a New York Jets defensive lineman — did.
When it comes to comparisons, that might be your best bet if you’re trying to peg McDowell.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
// Copyright (C) 2015 the V8 project authors. All rights reserved.
// This code is governed by the BSD license found in the LICENSE file.
/*---
es6id: 13.6.4.13 S5.n
description: >
Control flow during body evaluation should honor `break` statements within
`try` blocks.
features: [generators]
---*/
function* values() {
yield 1;
$ERROR('This code is unreachable (following `yield` statement).');
}
var iterator = values();
var i = 0;
outer:
while (true) {
for (var x of iterator) {
try {
throw new Error();
} catch (err) {
i++;
break outer;
$ERROR('This code is unreachable (following `break` statement).');
}
$ERROR('This code is unreachable (following `try` statement).');
}
$ERROR('This code is unreachable (following `for..of` statement).');
}
assert.sameValue(i, 1);
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Github"
}
|
The Bank Melli Iran (BMI) has dismissed a claim by US Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) that it has been funneling "billions of dollars" to its Iraqi branch in order to fund militias.
In a statement, Bank Melli said the OFAC 's claim about transferring money for Iraqi militias, which was cited by anti-Iran media outlets a few days ago, is "far from reality and unaccounted for."
Earlier this month, the OFAC sanctioned more than 700 individuals, entities, aircraft, and vessels as part of the US administration's re-imposition of anti-Iran sanctions that had been lifted under the 2015 nuclear agreement.
In its press release, the OFAC said it sanctions Bank Melli for "assisting in, sponsoring, or providing financial, material, or technological support for, or financial or other services to or in support of" the IRGC's Quds Force.
"As of 2018, the equivalent of billions of dollars in funds have flowed through IRGC-QF controlled accounts at Bank Melli," the OFAC claimed.
The Iranian bank, however, says the whole money transferred to and withdrawn from its branch in Iraq is far less than the amount claimed by the US Treasury.
"All the activities of the branch are according to the regulations of the Iraqi Central Bank," the bank's statement said.
The Bank Melli branches in regional countries and other parts of the world are operating in accordance with the international trade regulations and the rules of the host countries, the statement noted.
"The activities of these branches ... have been monitored by the central banks in these countries during the past seven decades," the statement said.
The Bank Melli Iran's branch in Iraq was established in 2007 in a professional move and as part of the bank's branch expansion policies, it added.
The branch was established in Iraq in a bid to offer conventional banking services according to legal procedures of the Arab country, the Bank Melli said in the statement. It added that so far, according to the audits of the host country, the bank's performance has been assessed as accurate and well-documented.
"Therefore, the OFAC 's false claim about transferring money for Iraqi militias ... ignores the consistent cultural, historical, social and economic relations between the two countries, and the fact that the huge number of pilgrims commuting between the two states need to use banking services," the statement said.
In its press release, the OFAC claimed the IRGC's Quds Force "has used Bank Melli to dispense funds to Iraqi Shia militant groups, and Bank Melli’s presence in Iraq was part of this scheme."
"Bank Melli has enabled the IRGC and its affiliates to move funds inside and outside of Iran," it added.
Bank Melli Iran is the first national and commercial retail bank of Iran. It is considered as the largest Iranian company in terms of annual income. It is the largest bank in the Islamic world and in the Middle East.
By the end of 2016, BMI had a net asset of $76.6 billion and a vast network of 3,328 banking branches; so it is known as the largest Iranian bank based on the amount of assets.
The Bank Melli has 3,328 active branches inside Iran and 14 active branches and four sub-stations abroad. The first foreign branch of BMI was opened in Hamburg, Germany in 1948.
A recent report by Germany’s business newspaper Handelsblatt claimed that Germany's part state-owned telecom provider Deutsche Telekom had cut off Bank Melli's Hamburg office.
However, Bank Melli announced in a statement that all of its overseas branches remained connected to phone and internet services.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "OpenWebText2"
}
|
Signaling pathways involved in antioxidant control of glioma cell proliferation.
Tumor cells are able to survive and proliferate despite the higher-than-average level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) they exhibit. This is generally taken as a clue as to the implications of ROS in cell proliferation. In fact many mitogenic intracellular signaling pathways could be redox regulated, more particularly those involving tyrosine kinase receptors (RTK). In the present work we use N-acetylcysteine (NAC)-a well-known antioxidant molecule-to study the implications of cellular redox state on rat C6 glioma cell proliferation. NAC is shown to decrease glioma cell proliferation, inducing a cell cycle arrest in the G(0)/G(1) phase and markedly up-regulating p21 expression. A rapid, and glutathione-independent, decrease in intracellular oxidants was observed as well. NAC also lowers Akt activity, extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2, and the redox-sensitive transcription factor NF-kappaB, all of which are ROS related and seem to be in close connection with cell proliferation. NAC effects apparently relate to protein kinase C (PKC) activity because 100 nM TPA-a PKC activator-induces a partial blockage of the NAC antiproliferative effect. Bringing our results together, it seems that intracellular reduction of oxidants in C6 glioma cells can induce inhibition of cell proliferation by modulating RTK-related intracellular signaling pathways.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Q:
How could I integrate Spring data source into Quartz?
I am trying to integrate the data source configure in Spring into Quartz scheduler. While I have gather few pieces of information from forums and mailing list on how this could be done, I am still not able to construct the whole piece.
I have the data source configure in Spring as following:
<bean id="dataSource" class="org.springframework.jndi.JndiObjectFactoryBean">
<property name="jndiName" value="jdbc/projectA"/>
<property name="lookupOnStartup" value="false"/>
<property name="cache" value="true"/>
<property name="proxyInterface" value="javax.sql.DataSource"/>
</bean>
And the Quartz-Spring configure like this:
<jee:jndi-lookup id="quartzDataSource"
lookup-on-startup="false"
proxy-interface="javax.sql.DataSource"
cache="true"
jndi-name="java:jdbc/projectA"/>
<bean class="org.springframework.scheduling.quartz.SchedulerFactoryBean">
...
<property name="dataSource" ref="quartzDataSource"/>
</bean>
This is not the correct configuration as I got the following error:
[ERROR ] SRVE0283E: Exception caught while initializing context: org.springframework.beans.factory.BeanCreationException: Error creating bean with name 'org.springframework.scheduling.quartz.SchedulerFactoryBean#0' defined in class path resource [job-authentication-spring.xml]: Invocation of init method failed; nested exception is org.springframework.jndi.JndiLookupFailureException: JndiObjectTargetSource failed to obtain new target object; nested exception is javax.naming.InvalidNameException: java:jdbc/projectA
at org.springframework.beans.factory.support.AbstractAutowireCapableBeanFactory.initializeBean(AbstractAutowireCapableBeanFactory.java:1422)
at org.springframework.beans.factory.support.AbstractAutowireCapableBeanFactory.doCreateBean(AbstractAutowireCapableBeanFactory.java:518)
at org.springframework.beans.factory.support.AbstractAutowireCapableBeanFactory.createBean(AbstractAutowireCapableBeanFactory.java:455)
at org.springframework.beans.factory.support.AbstractBeanFactory$1.getObject(AbstractBeanFactory.java:293)
at org.springframework.beans.factory.support.DefaultSingletonBeanRegistry.getSingleton(DefaultSingletonBeanRegistry.java:222)
at org.springframework.beans.factory.support.AbstractBeanFactory.doGetBean(AbstractBeanFactory.java:290)
at org.springframework.beans.factory.support.AbstractBeanFactory.getBean(AbstractBeanFactory.java:192)
at org.springframework.beans.factory.support.DefaultListableBeanFactory.preInstantiateSingletons(DefaultListableBeanFactory.java:567)
at org.springframework.context.support.AbstractApplicationContext.finishBeanFactoryInitialization(AbstractApplicationContext.java:895)
at org.springframework.context.support.AbstractApplicationContext.refresh(AbstractApplicationContext.java:425)
at org.springframework.web.context.ContextLoader.createWebApplicationContext(ContextLoader.java:282)
at org.springframework.web.context.ContextLoader.initWebApplicationContext(ContextLoader.java:204)
at org.springframework.web.context.ContextLoaderListener.contextInitialized(ContextLoaderListener.java:47)
at com.ibm.ws.webcontainer.webapp.WebApp.notifyServletContextCreated(WebApp.java:1975)
at com.ibm.ws.webcontainer.webapp.WebApp.initialize(WebApp.java:748)
at com.ibm.ws.webcontainer.webapp.WebApp.initialize(WebApp.java:5694)
at com.ibm.ws.webcontainer.osgi.webapp.WebGroup.addWebApplication(WebGroup.java:84)
at com.ibm.ws.webcontainer.osgi.DynamicVirtualHost.addWebApplication(DynamicVirtualHost.java:150)
at com.ibm.ws.webcontainer.WebContainer.addWebApp(WebContainer.java:571)
at com.ibm.ws.webcontainer.WebContainer.addWebApplication(WebContainer.java:521)
at com.ibm.ws.webcontainer.osgi.WebContainer.addWebContainerApplication(WebContainer.java:649)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.war.internal.WARApplicationHandler.install(WARApplicationHandler.java:153)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.StartAction.execute(StartAction.java:145)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.ApplicationStateMachine.changeState(ApplicationStateMachine.java:358)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.ApplicationStateMachine.changeState(ApplicationStateMachine.java:248)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.ApplicationStateMachine$StateChangeCallback.processChange(ApplicationStateMachine.java:138)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.ApplicationStateMachine$StateChangeCallback.changed(ApplicationStateMachine.java:120)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.LocateHandlerAction.arrived(LocateHandlerAction.java:91)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.lifecycle.ReferenceMapHolder.addListener(ReferenceMapHolder.java:191)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.LocateHandlerAction.execute(LocateHandlerAction.java:65)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.ApplicationStateMachine.changeState(ApplicationStateMachine.java:358)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.ApplicationStateMachine.changeState(ApplicationStateMachine.java:248)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.ApplicationStateMachine$StateChangeCallback.processChange(ApplicationStateMachine.java:138)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.ApplicationStateMachine$StateChangeCallback.changed(ApplicationStateMachine.java:120)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.ApplicationStateMachine$ResourceCallback.succesfulCompletion(ApplicationStateMachine.java:154)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.ResolveFileAction.findFile(ResolveFileAction.java:95)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.ResolveFileAction.initComplete(ResolveFileAction.java:135)
at com.ibm.ws.kernel.filemonitor.internal.MonitorHolder.init(MonitorHolder.java:325)
at com.ibm.ws.kernel.filemonitor.internal.CoreServiceImpl.setMonitor(CoreServiceImpl.java:211)
at sun.reflect.NativeMethodAccessorImpl.invoke0(Native Method)
at sun.reflect.NativeMethodAccessorImpl.invoke(NativeMethodAccessorImpl.java:39)
at sun.reflect.DelegatingMethodAccessorImpl.invoke(DelegatingMethodAccessorImpl.java:25)
at java.lang.reflect.Method.invoke(Method.java:597)
at org.apache.felix.scr.impl.helper.BaseMethod.invokeMethod(BaseMethod.java:227)
at org.apache.felix.scr.impl.helper.BaseMethod.access$500(BaseMethod.java:38)
at org.apache.felix.scr.impl.helper.BaseMethod$Resolved.invoke(BaseMethod.java:595)
at org.apache.felix.scr.impl.helper.BaseMethod.invoke(BaseMethod.java:476)
at org.apache.felix.scr.impl.manager.DependencyManager.invokeBindMethod(DependencyManager.java:1067)
at org.apache.felix.scr.impl.manager.DependencyManager.serviceAdded(DependencyManager.java:317)
at org.apache.felix.scr.impl.manager.DependencyManager.serviceChanged(DependencyManager.java:171)
at org.eclipse.osgi.internal.serviceregistry.FilteredServiceListener.serviceChanged(FilteredServiceListener.java:104)
at org.eclipse.osgi.framework.internal.core.BundleContextImpl.dispatchEvent(BundleContextImpl.java:861)
at org.eclipse.osgi.framework.eventmgr.EventManager.dispatchEvent(EventManager.java:230)
at org.eclipse.osgi.framework.eventmgr.ListenerQueue.dispatchEventSynchronous(ListenerQueue.java:148)
at org.eclipse.osgi.internal.serviceregistry.ServiceRegistry.publishServiceEventPrivileged(ServiceRegistry.java:819)
at org.eclipse.osgi.internal.serviceregistry.ServiceRegistry.publishServiceEvent(ServiceRegistry.java:771)
at org.eclipse.osgi.internal.serviceregistry.ServiceRegistrationImpl.register(ServiceRegistrationImpl.java:130)
at org.eclipse.osgi.internal.serviceregistry.ServiceRegistry.registerService(ServiceRegistry.java:214)
at org.eclipse.osgi.framework.internal.core.BundleContextImpl.registerService(BundleContextImpl.java:433)
at org.eclipse.osgi.framework.internal.core.BundleContextImpl.registerService(BundleContextImpl.java:451)
at org.eclipse.osgi.framework.internal.core.BundleContextImpl.registerService(BundleContextImpl.java:950)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.lifecycle.ServiceReg.register(ServiceReg.java:89)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.ResolveFileAction.execute(ResolveFileAction.java:110)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.ApplicationStateMachine.changeState(ApplicationStateMachine.java:358)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.ApplicationStateMachine.changeState(ApplicationStateMachine.java:248)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.ApplicationStateMachine$StateChangeCallback.processChange(ApplicationStateMachine.java:138)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.ApplicationStateMachine$StateChangeCallback.changed(ApplicationStateMachine.java:120)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.StopAction$1.succesfulCompletion(StopAction.java:56)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.StopAction$1.succesfulCompletion(StopAction.java:52)
at com.ibm.ws.threading.internal.FutureMonitorImpl$FutureMonitorInfo.notifyListener(FutureMonitorImpl.java:49)
at com.ibm.ws.threading.internal.FutureMonitorImpl.onCompletion(FutureMonitorImpl.java:93)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.StopAction.execute(StopAction.java:52)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.ApplicationStateMachine.changeState(ApplicationStateMachine.java:358)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.statemachine.ApplicationStateMachine.changeState(ApplicationStateMachine.java:248)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.monitor.ApplicationMonitor$EventType.executeEvent(ApplicationMonitor.java:314)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.monitor.ApplicationMonitor$ApplicationListeners.executeEvent(ApplicationMonitor.java:284)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.monitor.ApplicationMonitor$ApplicationListeners.access$600(ApplicationMonitor.java:183)
at com.ibm.ws.app.manager.internal.monitor.ApplicationMonitor$ApplicationListeners$1.call(ApplicationMonitor.java:268)
at java.util.concurrent.FutureTask$Sync.innerRun(FutureTask.java:303)
at java.util.concurrent.FutureTask.run(FutureTask.java:138)
at java.util.concurrent.Executors$RunnableAdapter.call(Executors.java:441)
at java.util.concurrent.FutureTask$Sync.innerRun(FutureTask.java:303)
at java.util.concurrent.FutureTask.run(FutureTask.java:138)
at java.util.concurrent.ScheduledThreadPoolExecutor$ScheduledFutureTask.access$301(ScheduledThreadPoolExecutor.java:98)
at java.util.concurrent.ScheduledThreadPoolExecutor$ScheduledFutureTask.run(ScheduledThreadPoolExecutor.java:206)
at java.util.concurrent.ThreadPoolExecutor$Worker.runTask(ThreadPoolExecutor.java:886)
at java.util.concurrent.ThreadPoolExecutor$Worker.run(ThreadPoolExecutor.java:908)
at java.lang.Thread.run(Thread.java:662)
Caused by: org.springframework.jndi.JndiLookupFailureException: JndiObjectTargetSource failed to obtain new target object; nested exception is javax.naming.InvalidNameException: java:jdbc/projectA
at org.springframework.jndi.JndiObjectTargetSource.getTarget(JndiObjectTargetSource.java:139)
at org.springframework.aop.framework.JdkDynamicAopProxy.invoke(JdkDynamicAopProxy.java:182)
at $Proxy20.getConnection(Unknown Source)
at org.springframework.jdbc.datasource.DataSourceUtils.doGetConnection(DataSourceUtils.java:111)
at org.springframework.jdbc.datasource.DataSourceUtils.getConnection(DataSourceUtils.java:77)
at org.springframework.jdbc.support.JdbcUtils.extractDatabaseMetaData(JdbcUtils.java:280)
at org.springframework.jdbc.support.JdbcUtils.extractDatabaseMetaData(JdbcUtils.java:320)
at org.springframework.scheduling.quartz.LocalDataSourceJobStore.initialize(LocalDataSourceJobStore.java:139)
at org.quartz.impl.StdSchedulerFactory.instantiate(StdSchedulerFactory.java:1318)
at org.quartz.impl.StdSchedulerFactory.getScheduler(StdSchedulerFactory.java:1509)
at org.springframework.scheduling.quartz.SchedulerFactoryBean.createScheduler(SchedulerFactoryBean.java:600)
at org.springframework.scheduling.quartz.SchedulerFactoryBean.afterPropertiesSet(SchedulerFactoryBean.java:481)
at org.springframework.beans.factory.support.AbstractAutowireCapableBeanFactory.invokeInitMethods(AbstractAutowireCapableBeanFactory.java:1479)
at org.springframework.beans.factory.support.AbstractAutowireCapableBeanFactory.initializeBean(AbstractAutowireCapableBeanFactory.java:1419)
... 87 more
Caused by: javax.naming.InvalidNameException: java:jdbc/projectA
at com.ibm.ws.jndi.url.contexts.javacolon.internal.JavaURLName.<init>(JavaURLName.java:83)
at com.ibm.ws.jndi.url.contexts.javacolon.internal.JavaURLNameParser.parse(JavaURLNameParser.java:36)
at com.ibm.ws.jndi.url.contexts.javacolon.internal.JavaURLNameParser.parse(JavaURLNameParser.java:48)
at com.ibm.ws.jndi.url.contexts.javacolon.internal.JavaURLContext$NameUtil.<init>(JavaURLContext.java:458)
at com.ibm.ws.jndi.url.contexts.javacolon.internal.JavaURLContext.lookup(JavaURLContext.java:299)
at com.ibm.ws.jndi.url.contexts.javacolon.internal.JavaURLContext.lookup(JavaURLContext.java:354)
at org.apache.aries.jndi.DelegateContext.lookup(DelegateContext.java:161)
at javax.naming.InitialContext.lookup(InitialContext.java:392)
at org.springframework.jndi.JndiTemplate$1.doInContext(JndiTemplate.java:154)
at org.springframework.jndi.JndiTemplate.execute(JndiTemplate.java:87)
at org.springframework.jndi.JndiTemplate.lookup(JndiTemplate.java:152)
at org.springframework.jndi.JndiTemplate.lookup(JndiTemplate.java:178)
at org.springframework.jndi.JndiLocatorSupport.lookup(JndiLocatorSupport.java:95)
at org.springframework.jndi.JndiObjectLocator.lookup(JndiObjectLocator.java:105)
at org.springframework.jndi.JndiObjectTargetSource.getTarget(JndiObjectTargetSource.java:132)
... 100 more
I wasn't sure what else is missing in this Spring configuration, hope you guys could share some light on this problem.
A:
I am not sure why this issue is happening, but here is what I did this to get it working:
First I extended org.springframework.scheduling.quartz.SchedulerFactoryBean to create my own implementation MySchedulerFactoryBean.
Then this was wired in the spring context xml:
<bean id="sessionFactory"
class="org.springframework.orm.hibernate4.LocalSessionFactoryBean">
<property name="dataSource" ref="myDS" />
<property name="annotatedClasses">
<list>
... your list of orm classes
</list>
</property>
</bean>
<bean id="transactionManager"
class="org.springframework.orm.hibernate4.HibernateTransactionManager">
<property name="sessionFactory" ref="sessionFactory" />
</bean>
<tx:annotation-driven transaction-manager="transactionManager" />
<bean id="myDS" class="org.apache.commons.dbcp.BasicDataSource"
destroy-method="close">
<property name="driverClassName" value="${database.driverClassName}" />
<property name="initialSize" value="${database.initialSize}" />
<property name="maxActive" value="${database.maxActive}" />
<property name="maxIdle" value="${database.maxIdle}" />
<property name="testOnBorrow" value="true"/>
<property name="testWhileIdle" value="false"/>
<property name="validationQuery" value="${database.validationQuery}" />
</bean>
<bean id="myQuartzSchedFactoryBean" class="com.scheduler.MySchedulerFactoryBean"
lazy-init="true" scope="prototype">
<!-- This datasource is initially passed as the default one, but later set internally in the code -->
<property name="dataSource" ref="myDS" />
<property name="transactionManager" ref="transactionManager" />
<property name="configLocation" value="classpath:META-INF/quartz.properties" />
<property name="applicationContextSchedulerContextKey" value="applicationContext" />
<property name="autoStartup" value="false" />
</bean>
Then where ever I want to schedule the job I get an instance of MySchedulerFactoryBean and use it like this
MySchedulerFactoryBean quartzSchedulerFactoryBean = //get the bean from spring
Scheduler scheduler = quartzSchedulerFactoryBean.getScheduler();
scheduler.schedule(...)
These are the quartz.properties entries:
org.quartz.scheduler.instanceName = MyScheduler
org.quartz.scheduler.instanceId = AUTO
org.quartz.threadPool.class = org.quartz.simpl.SimpleThreadPool
org.quartz.threadPool.threadCount = 30
org.quartz.threadPool.threadPriority = 5
org.quartz.threadPool.threadsInheritContextClassLoaderOfInitializingThread = true
org.quartz.jobStore.misfireThreshold = 60000
org.quartz.jobStore.class = org.quartz.impl.jdbcjobstore.JobStoreTX
org.quartz.jobStore.useProperties = false
org.quartz.jobStore.tablePrefix = QRTZ_
org.quartz.jobStore.isClustered = true
org.quartz.jobStore.clusterCheckinInterval = 20000
org.quartz.jobStore.driverDelegateClass = org.quartz.impl.jdbcjobstore.StdJDBCDelegate
And I am using Quartz 2.1.2
|
{
"pile_set_name": "StackExchange"
}
|
Please Don’t Give Up Social Media For Lent
Every Lent, I can count on a large number of my Facebook friends, Twitter followers, and fellow Snapchatters to fall silent for 40 days. Some announce their departure on Fat Tuesday, but most just log off unceremoniously and disappear. I get the rationale behind giving up social media for Lent. For many of us, our endless news feed scrolling represents a large consumption of time that could probably be better spent. Thus, for a certain age demographic, it seems to have replaced “giving up chocolate” as the default Lenten observance. But, I’m begging you, please don’t delete your apps this Lent. Instead, use your social media presence as a Lenten observance in itself, as a means of evangelization, and to aid in your own personal spiritual growth. Here are some suggestions that can help you make social media platforms an integral part of this coming Lent:
Share your own Lenten Journey
From Ash Wednesday to the Easter Vigil and a whole lot of Lent in between, so much of our Catholic tradition is on display like it is at no other time during the year. Social media is a great avenue to share our traditions with friends that may be unfamiliar with the faith. For example, in my home parish of St John / St Thomas Aquinas of East Lansing, Michigan, we have a candlelit Eucharistic procession between our two Churches that goes right down MSU’s sorority row on the evening of Holy Thursday. That is not something you see everyday! Social media can also serve as inspiration to those fellow Catholics that have been struggling with their own belief and practice in recent times.
Support your Catholic friends
To the above point, it can be intimidating to share your faith among many of your friends and followers who are not Catholic. Make it a point then to support your Catholic friends who are sharing their Lenten activities via social media. Retweet, like, share, comment on, or simply read the postings of your fellow Catholics that are accompanying you on this pilgrimage to Easter.
Use social media as an invitation
I have found that some friends may not take it upon themselves to initiate an act of charity, or attend a Church event, but they’ll join me if I invite them. Whatever extra things you are doing for Lent, invite your friends along. Whenever I donate blood, I always invite my online friends to do the same. Sometimes it’s just that little nudge of a Facebook post that sparks people’s interest. Whether you are volunteering with a charity, attending the parish fish fry, praying the Stations of the Cross, or going to an extra weekday Mass, see who else might want to come with you.
Clean your digital house
Over time, it’s inevitable that we accumulate voices in our social media feeds that take us further from Christ rather than closer. For me, it’s the classic car and hot rod sites that over time share more pictures of scantily clad women than vehicles. Or its the news commentators that exploit their platform to sow division and stir up controversy. Use this season of preparation to take a critical look at all of the content you scroll past on any given day, and unfollow, unfriend, or unlike any that are not a great influence in your life.
Follow your favorite Catholic accounts
Chances are, your favorite Catholic social media accounts have a lot of Lenten inspiration to go around! At Busted Halo, we have a lot planned for Lent that we don’t want you to miss out on. We will once again be running our popular InstaLent Photo Challenge and invite you to share your creative photos and reflections. Our #DailyJolts continue throughout Lent, and we’ll offer many other reflections, articles, and opportunities to learn about Catholic Lent traditions. Remember to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Hopefully the above gives you a few points that you can put in to practice as we enter this Lenten season. I’m looking forward to accompanying you on this journey online.
John Oliva has been surrounded by college students for most of his adult life. He spent the first half of his career as a university professor and now works as a licensed, professional engineer in the private sector. Along with his wife Lisa and their daughter, the Oliva’s are active in campus ministry and other service initiatives through their home parish of St John's Church and Student Center at Michigan State University. An aspirant deacon, John is in his first year of diaconate formation with hopes of being ordained for the Diocese of Lansing.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
In the past, most brushless DC motors used dedicated sensors such as Hall effect devices or optical sensors to determine the angular position of the rotor with respect to the stator. This information was then used to commutate the motor. More recently, the back EMF signals from the stator coils of the motor have been used to sense the angular position of the rotor with the advantages of reducing commutation timing errors and costs. However, when the motor is stationary there is no back EMF from the stator coils and so a special start system is required. This system is also required at low speeds as the drive currents cause voltages that can be much greater than the back EMF signals making their detection a problem.
Design Engineering October 1984, page 37 discloses a back EMF position sensing system for brushless DC motors. This article is not clear as to the details of the starting system used but describes a technique which only allows energisation of the motor coils during particular time periods which is incompatible with many applications.
EP-A-251785 discloses a method of producing feedback information concerning the rotational position of the rotor of a brushless dc motor without using sensing devices in the structure of the motor, when the motor is at a standstill or rotating only slowly. The phases of the motor are energised under the control of a microprocessor and current through the phases is monitored by the microprocessor. Periodically, from standstill to a first rotational speed, each of the set of motor phases is momentarily energised in sequence and the amplitude of the short current pulse that flows in each phase is monitored. The phase in which the highest current pulse flows indicates the position of the rotor. The momentary energisation of the set of phases is insufficient to generate sufficient torque to turn the rotor: each momentary energisation of the set of phases is followed by sustained torque-producing energisation of the particular phase which is appropriate to the rotor position indicated by the monitored current pulses which flowed in response to the momentary energisation. Monitoring the amplitudes of the short current pulses requires the use of an analogue-to-digital converter. Accordingly, the method disclosed in EP-A-251785 has the disadvantage of either restricting the choice of the microprocessor to one with an integral analogue-to-digital converter or requiring the use of a separate analogue-to-digital converter which would be accompanied by extra cost, power consumption and lower system reliability.
DE-C2-32 09 394 discloses a system of controlling a brushless DC motor in order to get the motor turning in the desired direction as soon as possible. With the motor at a standstill, a current pulse is applied to one of the windings and then the back EMFs in the windings are examined to determine whether the motor has begun to turn in the desired direction. If it has, the system runs the motor in a self-commutating mode. If the motor has begun to turn in the undesired direction, the system causes the windings to be energised so that the motor changes its direction of rotation. The system disclosed in this prior document is suitable where a load is not applied until the motor has reached its operating speed but is not applicable to an arrangement where the motor has a high starting load, such as in a record disk file drive.
The invention seeks to provide an improved method of starting a brushless direct current motor, particularly one having a high starting load such as one driving a record disk file.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "USPTO Backgrounds"
}
|
Many contemporary vehicles, especially those used for the transportation of passengers, are equipped with interior wall panels that are attached to a frame or other support structure of the vehicle. For example, the passenger compartments of most modern aircraft, trains, and buses are equipped with interior wall panels. Interior wall panels may improve the passenger's enjoyment by reducing noise or improving the aesthetic quality of the passenger's environment.
FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an aircraft interior 10 prior to installation of wall panels 12 (not shown) in accordance with the prior art. As shown in FIG. 1, the aircraft interior 10 includes a plurality of elongated frame members 14, and a plurality of isolation mounts 16 are attached to each frame member 14. An enlarged isometric view of one of the isolation mounts 16 is shown in FIG. 2. The isolation mount 16 includes a mounting plate 18 having a pair of elongated slots 20 disposed therethrough. A floating nut 21 is clipped to the mounting plate 18 near each of the elongated slots 20. Mounting arms 22 (only one visible) extend from the mounting plate 18 along the sides of the frame member 14 and are secured to the frame member 14 by a fastener 24 (e.g. a rivet, screw, etc.). During assembly, a wall panel 12 is positioned beside the mounting plate 18, with a pair of hole 24 in the wall panel 12 aligned with the floating nuts 21. A mounting screw 26 is then passed through each hole 24 and secured to the corresponding floating nut 21, securing the wall panel 12 to the frame member 14.
Although desirable results have been achieved using the prior art panel mounting system shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, some drawbacks have been noted. For example, for installation of wall panels 12 into the aircraft interior 10, each wall panel 12 typically uses about eighty parts to secure into position, including ten isolation mounts 16 with two fasteners 24 per isolation mount 16, two floating nuts 21 per isolation mount 16, eight mounting screws 26, and various other components. In addition, the process of installing the wall panels 12 using the prior art installation may involve multiple tools and more than one person to accomplish. Consequently, there is an unmet need to reduce the number of parts, tools, and personnel, and associated expenses to install wall panels within the aircraft interior.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "USPTO Backgrounds"
}
|
A multi-residue TLC screening procedure for anabolic oestrogens and detection of oestradiol, DES or zeranol in chicken muscle tissue extracts.
A multi-residue HETLC (High Efficiency Thin Layer Chromatography) screening procedure for 17 beta-oestradiol, diethylstilboesterol (DES), zearalanol (zeranol), zearalenone and their metabolites oestrone, zearalanone, and zearalenol is described. The anabolic oestrogens were analyzed on HETLC plates coated with silica gel and were developed in methylene chloride:methanol: 2-propanol (97:1:2 v/v). The spots were visualized by exposure to iodine vapours and subsequently sprayed with 1% starch solution. Analysis of standards by HETLC at 4 degrees C as a seven-component mixture showed six discrete bands with mean Rfs of 0.37 (oestrone), 0.35 (zearalanone and zearalenone), 0.26 (t-DES), 0.23 (oestradiol), 0.17 (zearalenol and zearalanol), and 0.15 (c-DES). Chicken muscle tissues (1, 2.5, or 5 g) were extracted with 95% acetone. Extracts were then fortified with 50-250 ng each of the anabolic oestrogens, purified in alumina and ion-exchange columns and analyzed by HETLC. Oestradiol, zeranol or DES in fortified tissue extracts were clearly detected when an equivalent of 4 ng were analyzed by HETLC after purification in alumina and ion-exchange columns. The intensity of their bands suggested near quantitative recovery when compared to intensity of bands of known amounts of standards. The described extraction, purification, and TLC procedures can be used to screen these oestrogens at low ppb amounts in chicken muscle tissues and should be applicable to screen tissues of cattle and sheep.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
All right! This is my second try for Price of Freedom, I do hope you all like it!
Now, Price of Freedom is going to be long. Yes, quite long. It's also going to be fully posted in this thread, no more stopping-and-making-new-thread-because-it-sucks things. If I find I want to edit, I'll do just that, even if there are drastic changes. Price of Freedom is going to be finished here, so if you want to read everything, rest assured you WILL read everything. Bare with me, folks.
It is also the same basic plot as the last one, revised to a practically unrecognizable state. So, don't give anything away if you've read my first try. (I know it's hard!)
Now.
Let's play a game, shall we? It's the repeat after Chareon game! Now, repeat after me: This is not a journey fic. *waits for response* Okay, now: This is an original trainer fic/legendary fic. *listens to readers say "This is an original trainer fic slash legendary fic"* Heh. Now that you've learned those two lessons in a fun educational environment, let's move on.
***
PM List:
Chibi Pika
Blue_Mew22
Libie
Demi
shadowlight
duncan
***
Rating in General: I'd have to say... Pg 13. Maybe Pg 14, if it matters. Not much blood, no cursing (how vulgar), but maybe some romance. That remains to be seen.
Disclaimer: I do not claim to own Pokemon or anything, but I do claim my plot, characters, and some of my settings as my own. So no stealing. *bares fangs* Or I shall have to hunt you down.
So, here's the introduction. Yes, I know it's short. It's supposed to be. It's an introduction. You don't dive into introductions expecting them to be as long as chapters. Introductions serve to give BRIEF insight into the plot. Don't worry, the actual chapters will be long and juicy. ^_^
Oh, and those really long, boring looking paragraphs at the beginning of the intro? They really aren't boring. Or really that long, for that matter. Please, just read them!
Now, to the fun stuff!
***
Introduction
“I tell you, they are taking advantage of us!” A voice, filled with anger and hatred, rang through the woods like the song of a clear brazen bell. “We have to put a stop to this!” The follow up was softer, though, more pleading and more reminiscent of the wind rushing through the trees. The creature who had spoken was standing defiantly in the shadow of a towering pine tree, bristling with anger. Her angled eyes glinted, her blue and white speckled coat accentuating their deep amethyst color. Her twin tails rippled along either side of her as if by an invisible wind, as well as the violet cape sprouting from the nape of her neck. She shook her head irritably, her blue, diamond shaped crest glittering. Her slender wolf-like body and condescending air proved her the incarnation of storms, of waves, of wind.
“I know,” came the response, a deep earthshaking growl, “Too long has this gone on. But what can we do? There are only three of us.” He stood in the sunlight, reveling in the heat of the day. His thick brown legs seemed as trees sprouting from the earth, pillars holding up his mighty body. The crown sprouting from his brow added to his majestic bearing, his red plated whiskers and long, luxurious mane as well. As with the wolf standing near him, a cape billowed out by his back, white and cloud-like; his was not stirred of his own doing, though. Pale, spiky ridges, like mountains, sprouted from his sides. He was the incarnation of fire, of earth, of anything between.
“We could recruit our cousins, any of them. I’m sure they are feeling the same way.” The she-wolf spoke again, her voice a growl.
“Never.” The last of the trio finally spoke up, in a mellow voice that held just an edge of an electric crackle that could strike out at any time. His power held sway over the leftovers of the other two, the incarnation of lightning, of light, of the power in thunder. His yellow and black striped body was configured more like a cat, with sharp claws and long, knife-like fangs. Catlike eyes peered past the stiff white whiskers and the black, helmet-like forehead of his face, while a purple cape and white zigzag tail completed his features. “What would our Mother say if she heard such things? Never shall we go against the people. This is only temporary, to be waited out by those smart enough to understand!”
“Mother isn’t here right now!” The wind stirring the wolf’s cape became a violent storm, centered around her. Not a bit of her wind struck the tree next to her, though, for her wrath was her own for now. “She’s probably hiding under the ocean, or in a cave, or something of the like! She could care less about us and our problems!”
“Not true!” the lightning-cat shot back. “She would never leave us when we’re in trouble. You know she always appears to straighten things out!” His voice crashed like thunder around the clearing.
The fire-dog stepped forward. “Maybe not this time. Perhaps she will sleep too long.”
“Exactly,” the storm wolf cried. “We can’t always rely on her. We can always fall back on her if we must, but we have to step out on our own! Even Entei agrees with me, we must do what we see fit!” The fiery dog nodded calmly in acquiescence.
“Mother will fix it, if we just be patient and wait. We mustn’t do anything brash, Suicune,” the tiger had calmed down somewhat, and was now trying to appeal to the wolf’s rational side. “Not everything in the world can be fixed by a fight.”
For the first time, Suicune looked speechless. She opened her mouth as if to respond, but instead, she snapped it shut and looked thoughtful.
“This can,” Now the brawny dog gave Suicune a glance that put the spark of rebellion back in her eyes, causing her to forget her rational thoughts. “You know it too, Raikou. You know we are right.”
“Let us summon our cousins, and make our plans for war!” howled Suicune, as easily swayed as the waves by the wind.
Raikou looked back and forth between his insistent brother, Entei, and his eager sister, Suicune. Finally, with a sigh, he nodded his assent.
The war had begun.
***
She opened her eyes, knowing the time had come. The Mother, the Creator, the Protector, all names that did not befit the small figure they applied to. Her name did, though. Mew.
That name definitely suited her. The noise a baby cat makes as it squirms and wriggles by its mother’s side. Or at least, the sound it made before the cataclysm. Now it would be the sound a baby meowth makes near its mother’s side.
She stretched and yawned, her slender, pink, cat-like body as supple as a whip. Yet she heaved a sigh, one filled with all the sorrow of a mother thinking of her lost young ones. Because that’s what she was. That’s what she was doing.
She pushed those thoughts away, focusing on the present. She had work to do. Lots of work. And she couldn't be late in doing it. The unrest had already begun to spread.
She closed her large, cerulean blue eyes, opening her other eye, her minds eye. She peered out into the world, searching for one mind in particular.
There! She found it. The mind was undeveloped, the kind that usually belonged to a small child. Which it did. A star-crossed young girl of about six.
Mew smiled to herself, happy. It was perfect. She knew exactly what to do. She turned her mind’s eye to the future, following the path she wanted to take out to the end. She flinched as the ending hit her like a stone wall. It would work, oh yes, it would work.
But was she really willing to pay the price?
***
SO LIKE.
THE INTRO'S OVER.
*cough* Ahem... anyways.
Like it? No? Reply, please, constructive criticism is welcome!
As soon as I get more readers, I will also start a Private Message list, in case you want to be notified when each chapter goes up. Just let me know in your posts if you do!
Yay! Revisions are fun!
;196; ~Chareon
Yami Ryu
6th July 2006, 9:05 AM
Hm I've always seen Entei as a lion, but it's nice someone writing about the trio does aknowledge Raikou is a tiger/sabertoothed cat. So kudos to you for that.
Overall this seems to be an interesting story, or atleast the makings of it. I don't see many errors, and it flowed pretty well throughout the fic ... so keep up the good work.
Chareon
6th July 2006, 6:52 PM
Hmm... Entei as a lion... Nice thought. Later in the story, he is more leonine than canine, but as of now, he's a dog. Yes, other than his mane, his configuration hints towards dog.
Thanks for the review. Thanks muchly! *smiles* Good reviews for intros are good, foreshadows well for the rest of the story.
The next chapter will be a while coming, though. Maybe two weeks or so.
Yar.
;196; ~Chareon
Demy
7th July 2006, 7:05 AM
this is a lot better then the frist intro Chareon, keep going.
Demy
Chareon
14th July 2006, 12:10 AM
Uhh... Thanks, Demy, but... Please make your replies longer and more in depth. It makes me happy to know you still like my fic, but I would like to know WHY you like it, what parts are good, and what parts need work. That's what authors look for and are delighted with.
But thank you for the reply, and I look foreward to your future reviews.
Chapter One will be up this weekend.
;196; ~Chareon
Demy
14th July 2006, 11:56 AM
Ok , sorry I was sort of skimming though it sorry I was tied when I was reading it.
Silentvibrava
15th July 2006, 9:29 PM
Hello there, you have a good fanfiction. I was delighted with the whole story.
“Not everything in the world can be fixed by a fight.”
Do you mind if I put this in my signature, with a link to your story with it? This is something that I've been trying to tell people for a long time.
Individual Description
I never see a lot of people pull off description with metaphors, and similes. Kudos for that, my fellow writer. Best of all, it was understandable. It wasn't too much, or too little. You have a good grasp of description.
Plot
It is too early to judge the plot, because it hasn't been thoroughly revealed yet, but everything so far was interesting.
Grammar
You have a good grasp of grammar as well. I didn't find one mistake, but I was too much in the story to notice.
Character(Development)
I could already see that Raikou is loyal, and the other two of the legendary trio think differently than it. Keep making differences in the characters, like you are doing.
Advice
All I can say is learn some new, yet comprehensible, words.
For an example:
plead=beseech
violent storm= turbulent storm
Also, try some adjectives as well as sensory details
For example:
“I know,” came the response, a deep earthshaking growl,
Let us add one adjective to deepen the effect it will have on the reader.
“I know,” came the response furiously, a deep earthshaking growl,
That is all the advice I have to offer.
I'm wondering why you haven't had anymore reviews. The way this story is written is so individual, yet acceptable, that everyone would love it if given a try.
Chareon
21st July 2006, 2:48 AM
Hello, Silentvibrava!
Do you mind if I put this in my signature, with a link to your story with it?
Sure, go ahead. :3 I like that quote too...!
“I know,” came the response furiously, a deep earthshaking growl,
That'll be a good idea in the future, except that in this scene, Entei isn't furiuos. He rarely DOES get upset. That's just the way he talks. But I'll keep your idea for more adjectives in mind.
I'm wondering why you haven't had anymore reviews. The way this story is written is so individual, yet acceptable, that everyone would love it if given a try.
Heh. Yes, I agree... </endconceitedness> Just kidding. But anyways, thanks. You're a good morale booster.
The next chapter will be posted as soon as I get one more review... *hinthint*
;196; ~Chareon
Chibi Pika
21st July 2006, 6:56 AM
Okayokayokayokay!!! Sorry it took so long!!! *crashes into thread on giant mystic Lugia plushy.*
Silverwing;249;: So...might I ask why you're replying NOW, at midnight, when you just as easily could have a week ago when Chareon was standing right next to your computer?
...
Okay, okay, enough nonsense, on to the review!!!
I said it before and I'll say it again: your descriptions = <3 I never use metaphors because I can never handle them effectively.
I still think the first paragraph should be split. *shot* Yeah, just so other readers can know, I was the reson behind that "pargraph explanation" thingy. *shot again.* xP
Plot!!! WAR!!!!! *spazz attack* Okay, I'm done. I can't remember what I thought the war was about before we had out little midnight secret plot discussion thingy...
It's funny how the Legendaries from both PoF and LC have the same goal, but they just...go about it differently...with different intentions.
Silverwing;249;: Chibs, might I bring up this quote:
CHIBI PIKA, how dare you put an ALMOST spoiler in MY thread!? That's just mean. Very very mean. 'Cause this is my thread. Myaaa! *sticks out tongue*
Silverwing! That almost spoiler in CoF was your fault. And what I said here reveals nothing; NOTHING, I tell you!!! Mwahaha!
I like the Mew part. I know you told me that one part was filled with plotty goodness, but you know me--Plot Bits make my head confuzzled. @_@
Silverwing;249;: Do you realize how contradictory that is? I swear, there is no way that you're LC's author.
Myaa! >=P
BTW, is it just coincidence, or am I thinking too hard? Miyah sounds like myaa. Or meow...if you say it really fast.
Silverwing;249; I bet you can't say it five times fast.
Argh!!! No more spam, Silver!!!
Zion;157;: Chibi, you suck--this wasn't a review so much as incoherent rambling.
Wow... er... thank's for the review, Chibi Pika... I guess... Just kidding! Really, thanks. You say the first paragraph should be split? Where? As far as I can tell, my paragraph has the sam epurpose throughout, therefore making it a true-to-grammar paragraph... but perhaps it would flow better... *mumbles and goes to edit*
Okay, men. And women. This is it. The big one, the one we’ve all been waiting for...
(that’s from Harry Potter, in case you couldn’t tell. which you probably should, considering everyone has read those books. it fit... I just had to use it... *is knocked down a notch for using a Harry Potter quote in pokčmon fan fiction thread*)
Er... anyways...
READ THIS STUFF OR I SHALL HAVE TO THROW A PINEAPPLE AT YOU.
Before I post chapter 1, I need to explain the way I do things. I suppose you all know how grammar works, but I shall go in to this anyways:
When I was naught but a munchkin, my teacher told me that when you write ‘my mom,’ you don’t need to capitalize ‘mom’. But when you use the title ‘mom’ as a name, it just becomes ‘Mom’.
I consider pokčmon animals, in a different sort of way, which you should also know.
You are probably now wondering how these have any effect on each other, so I will explain now. You don’t write animal ‘Animal’ (capitalized) unless it is at the beginning of a sentence. Say I was to name an animal of any type ‘Animal,’ it goes without saying that I should capitalize it. So... When a pokčmon is called by its breed, say, ‘the charizard,’ I do not capitalize it. But if that was what I called it, as some trainers will do, I WILL capitalize it. Thus, ‘Use flamethrower, Charizard!’ No offence to the pokemon company. It's their stuff, and I'm not diminishing their products and creations in any way.
This is just how I write. Yes, it is a change from the original Price of Freedom, but that is another reason I did a revision in the first place. The way I do this HAS AN EFFECT ON THE PLOT LATER ON. So, please, don’t criticize it.
BUT... If you see an incorrect capitalization that goes against the aforesaid, don’t hesitate to notify me.
One more thing. This is not a journey fic. Do you all remember that? Good. Please, don’t think I’m bossy or anything ‘cause of this. I’m just trying to cover all the bases so I don’t have to say it over and over again.
^^^^^ THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT. IF YOU SKIMMED OVER THIS PART, GO DIRECTLY TO JAIL. DO NOT PASS GO, DO NOT COLLECT 200 DOLLARS. NOW, ROLL DOUBLES AND READ IT AGAIN. Good job. Now you can read onward.
*gets tomatoes thrown at for using a Monopoly line in a fan fiction thread* At least I didn’t get knocked down a notch... *gets knocked down a notch* Dang it!
^^ You don’t have to read that, though. I’m just babbling.
All that being said, here’s the chapter.
Rating: FIVE STAR!! Just kidding. It’s PG.
Also, this chapter is a long‘un. Just thought I ought to mention... *gets tomatoes thrown at for delaying chappie post* Aargh... Okay, okay, here it is! (sheesh. such impatience...)
CHAPTER 1
“Happy Birthday, Miyah!” I nearly fell out of bed as I was rudely awakened by a extremely unwelcome shout. I sat up, blinking the sleep from my eyes.
“Wh—what? Whozzat?” I peered groggily at the people who had awakened me from my slumber.
“Happy birthday,” my dad repeated, a huge grin plastered across his features. His smile was somewhat like the words painted on the banner on my wall across from my bed, which stated the same announcement in bright, cheery letters. I was surprised to see it, for it meant that someone had been in my room without me hearing them. Usually I awoke with a start at the sound of anyone opening my door.
“Rise and shine,” my mother added, “someone very special is here to see you!”
I looked around. No, it wasn’t my grandpa, he lived with us. As I was about to ask who when my mom stepped aside, revealing a girl about my age who had a smile rivaling my fathers on her face.
“Jaymi!” I yelled happily, leaping out of bed to snag her in a huge hug. Being 6 months older than me, she had left on a quest on her fifteenth birthday and I had not seen her since. She brushed a strand of her wispy blond hair out of her face and laughed at my surprise. One of the things I had always loved about Jaymi was her laugh. People say yawns are the most contagious thing there is, and I agree, but Jaymi’s laugh is a definite runner-up. I finally released her from my embrace, smiling.
“Wow, you look so different! Have you caught any pokčmon yet? When did you get here? Where have you been? Oh, I’m so glad to see you!”
Her eyes widened slightly, teasingly, at my bombardment of questions. “Oh, I don’t know,” she said lightheartedly. “I think I forget...”
“Hey!”
She looked on the verge of telling me everything when my dad interrupted. “Hey, how come we don’t get a hug?” He gestured to himself and to my mom and grandpa, who were trying their best to look depressed. They weren’t doing a very good job though, because they were overjoyed at how excited I was to see Jaymi. I rushed over and gave them each a big hug in turn.
“So,” my grandpa said when I hugged him, “are you ready for some big adventures?”
“Yeah,” my mom agreed, “what starter pokčmon are you gonna get?”
Now it was my turn to go on a quest, like all fifteen year-olds. Three years and a few months ago, the old law had stated that twelve was the youngest age anyone could become a pokčmon trainer. That had changed. Now the minimum age was fifteen, and I was devastated. From that time onward, I had raided the public library and bookstore for any pokčmon books I could lay my hands on, determining that I would be the best trainer ever.
It was only when my father had gently reminded me that there was more to being a trainer that books that I had dropped it, leaving my room a cluttered mess of books and magazines.
My room was my pride and joy, the only thing I would be sorry to leave behind when I departed. The light sea foam green walls, the sky blue curtains, the ivy patterned bedspread, the many posters hung upon my walls, my lime green clock, the white lamps, doors and windows; all I would miss. I had even picked out my favorite pillow that I would bring along the previous night so I could have some memory of my bedroom. My parents had dubbed it “the den”, since I had spent most of my time locked up in it, with the windows and door shut, reading.
“I’m not sure,” I answered, “probably a water pokčmon, though.” Water types had always been my favorite.
“Ooh, like me?” Jaymi said. “I got a Squirtle as my starter pokčmon.”
“Can we carry on with this discussion later?” My grandfather interrupted. “Miyah has some birthday presents to open!”
“Cool!” I exclaimed as the five of us trooped out into the living room. I gasped when I saw that the entire coffee table was covered in presents, some even overflowing onto the beige carpet.
“Happy fifteenth!” Jaymi said simply, grinning at the stunned look on my face.
“It’s a special birthday, the day you leave us, so we wanted you to be well prepared,” added my dad. “Go ahead, open them up!”
I did so with gusto, ripping off the wrapping paper to expose the presents within. Slowly, I revealed a new backpack with a bunch of handy pockets, a new belt with clips to hold pokčballs, six pokčballs, four potions, and antidote, some new clothes, and last of all, a pokčdex.
I sighed as I cut it out f its plastic cover. I had been looking forward to getting one for so long that it almost seemed like a dream to finally be holding my own.
“It’s perfect,” I murmured to myself, delighted. “Thank you!”
“Now I can show you my pokčmon,” said Jaymi in the pause that followed, pulling out four pokčballs. “Come on out: Splash, Skitty, Wingull, Murkrow!”
First to pop out of a pokčball was the squirtle, Splash. It was a small turtle-like creature, with a blue body and a hooked beak. In my opinion, it was quite ugly, but I held my tongue.
In the next three flashes of light, a cute pink cat, a seagull, and a crow popped out, all at the same time. I looked at the skitty and wingull with interest, but when I turned to the murkrow...
I had a strange feeling... almost like hatred combined with fear. It was almost like I had hidden instincts which decided to come forth at that moment. The middle of my forehead started to ache, making me dizzy. I closed my eyes, and when I opened them, a shroud of blue mist blinded me, and I knew no more, except for an intense fury, and a strange burning sensation in my eyes...
***
I regained consciousness slowly. I tried to move, to sit up and open my eyes, but to no avail. Deciding that I had nothing better to do, I started thinking.
I couldn’t fathom what had happened, and strangely, I didn’t care. All I could think of was my dream. It felt like some unseen force was pushing me to think about it. So I did.
The previous night, I had a dream. I had always had a dream the night before my birthday, the same one. It all started on my seventh birthday, when I had a dream about a girl walking through a forest. I thought nothing of it at the time, that is, until my next birthday.
Then I had another dream about a young girl walking in a forest, the same exact dream, except in that dream, I got to watch a little longer. And so it continued, up until now, my fifteenth birthday. Now I knew that I had finished the dream.
A young girl, possibly six in age, was walking in a forest. It was impossible to tell who she was because she was walking away, with her back turned. Suddenly, a pink, flying, cat-like pokčmon flew out of the trees and confronted her, giggling. As the awed girl reached out with her hand to touch her, Mew took her by surprise by ducking under her hand and poking her in the middle of her forehead with one stubby arm. As Mew flew away, giggling again, the words echoed around in her mind: “You are marked. We will meet again someday”. Suddenly the girl became frightened, and as she turned around to run away...
...I realized that it was me. I was the girl in my dream, in the dream that wasn’t a dream at all. It was a memory, my memory, of when I was six years old.
I had run away, angry with my parents for some trifle. I had gotten lost in the woods, wandering around, and trying to find my way back. I was on the verge of tears when I heard a rustling noise. I walked over to check it out, and was confronted by Mew.
I was pondering this, wondering what it meant and how it affected what had just happened just now, when I heard voices. They must have been arguing, because now they were louder than before, the reason I could hear them.
Suddenly, I realized I could see slightly through the all enveloping blackness, though it was just a slit at the top of my face. I could also move. I was about to reach up and remove the blindfold when I heard voices.
I had never really eavesdropped before but I figured these circumstances could warrant a little bit of it.
I heard Grandpa laughing fit to burst, and this stood out to me the most considering my parents’ tones of voice.
“She has the power!” gasped my grandpa in between bursts of laughter.
“No, she doesn’t, she can't!” my dad disagreed.
“How can you be so blind? You saw what happened!”
“There must be another explanation!”
“There isn't! Just face it, your plans didn’t work!”
“Then what are we going to do?” added my mom, finally butting in.
“There’s nothing we can do except have grandpa explain everything to her, I suppose.” My sighed, a sign that he had given up.
I just couldn't take the suspense any more. I ripped off my blindfold and sat up, at which time everyone gasped in surprise that I was awake. “Explain what?” I demanded, “What’s going on here?!”
My mom, who it turns out, was sitting next to me on the bed, stroked my sweaty forehead and brushed a few wet strands of hair out of my dark brown face. “Honey, just let Grandpa explain, okay? Everything will make sense in a little while.”
I turned to Grandpa. “Well?”
Grandpa wiped the tears of joy from his face and smiled at her. “This will take a while, so you might as well sit back and relax.”
I obliged. I was too curious to do anything else; plus, my fluffy pillow was just the right treatment for my aching head.
“Long ago...” My grandpa started to tell his tale with these exact words; the same he had started every other story he told me with. “...a group of scientists got together and figured that they could make a race of super humans by implanting pokčmon DNA in them. Everything failed, until one scientist mentioned that perhaps they should use the DNA of all pokčmon and inject it into humans. Everyone scorned the idea because they knew if you went and put too much DNA that wasn’t a human’s into a human, they would develop traits undesired for humans to have. The scientist who proposed this left the others in search of the one pokčmon who could fulfill his wish. Can you guess which that one was Miyah?”
“Mew,” I breathed, finally understanding. They say Mew is the mother of all Pokčmon, holding all of the different pokčmons’ DNA within her small body.
“Yes,” my grandpa smiled, proud I had worked it out so fast. Of course, I had just been thinking of her, so I suppose I cheated. He continued. “The scientist succeeded in getting a bit of Mew’s DNA and injecting it into three unrelated embryos. But the scientist’s work failed you see, or so he thought. The three embryos turned out to be normal humans, and the scientist died thinking his life was a failure. But, the three people’s children, on the other hand, each had an element that they had a sort of control over, just like pokčmon.”
“Oh, I see, so I’m one of the people who have pokčmon powers? That means...” I tried to think around my aching head. “... so do you! What element did you get?”
He smiled, raised his hand, concentrated hard, formed an ice cube in midair, caught it in his hand and handed it to me.
“Ice, I assume?” I said, chomping on the ice cube. “What type am I then?”
“You, my dear, are the one and only psychic-type human!”
“What’s so special about psychic?” I asked. “And how come I am the only one?”
“You’ve already answered your first question.”
It was then that I realized how stupid my first question was, although I didn’t show how embarrassed I felt as I asked, “Well then what about my second question?”
“Alas,” came his answer, “I have no idea.” Such a helpful answer!
I thought for a second about what I had forgotten to think about earlier, and then asked, “What happened earlier? I can't remember.”
“You went berserk,” he said simply. “All pokčmon of one type will always have a deep-rooted hatred for any pokčmon whose type is stronger than its own, such as fire hating water. Your instincts were aroused by the feeling of a dark-type pokčmon weaker than you, so you tried to attack it. Your parents are explaining everything to Jaymi as we speak, so she shouldn’t be that mad at you for nearly savaging her murkrow.”
“I see,” I said, “but what exactly happened? What could I have done to a Pokčmon?”
“Well...” said my grandpa, chewing on his shirt collar, just as he always did when he’s agitated. Whatever I had done, must have been really bad! “Your eyes started to glow, the blue glow of a psychic Pokčmon powering up. Then everything in the room was lifted up and started swirling around the room in a vortex around you and Murkrow, then you kind of...” He trailer off, swallowed, then said, “... directed all of the furniture and such at Murkrow, burying it, then you turned on us and the same thing would have happened to us if your mom hadn’t snuck up behind you and blindfolded you. Then you just kind of... fainted, just like an overworked Pokčmon, so we brought you back here, to your room.”
“I'm sorry,” I said pathetically.
“Don’t worry,” said my grandpa with a grin, “when I first encountered a low leveled fire Pokčmon, I froze everyone and everything around me in a twenty foot radius.”
“So it’s normal?” I asked, relieved.
“That part is.” said grandpa, “Here’s is the catch though: some scientists would kill to experiment on us, which we can't let happen. You must never tell anyone about or show anyone your powers.”
I sat there, kind of just thinking about everything, until I realized my Grandpa was staring at me expectantly, although I didn’t quite know what he expected.
“Okay, enough with the boring story-telling; let’s boogie down to the Professor’s and get you started on your journey!” said my dad, barging in, always the awkward silence saver.
“Yay!” I said, happy once again, “but where’s Jaymi? I want to apologize.”
I found Jaymi in the wrecked living room, perched on the edge of an overturned sofa. I approached her cautiously, suddenly afraid.
The moment she turned around and saw me, I burst into uncontrollable tears and rushed over to her and hugged her, sobbing and apologizing over and over again.
As we drove north to see the Professor, I was still trying to decide which starter I wanted. I knew that mudkip would be one of my top choices, along with cyndaquil. Although I didn’t much like cyndaquil, I loved its evolution, quilava.
The Professor that we were going to was special. Instead of carrying just the three native starters for his continent, like the other Professors, he carried all nine. Even though the drive was longer to see him than the original Professor of Johto, Professor Elm, my family decided it was worth it to have all of the choices for me.
“Aren't we there yet?” Ever the impatient one, my grandfather complained for what seemed the hundredth time.
“Actually, yes,” our navigator, Jaymi, surprised us by saying. “His driveway is just a couple miles away to the right.”
“Finally!” I said, excited to be one step closer to leaving on my journey.
A couple of minutes later, we had pulled up to the professor’s house after crunching along his long, winding gravel driveway.
As soon as I jumped out of the car, I ran up to the Professor’s door and knocked excitedly three times.
“Yes?” He said as he opened the door. “Ah, Miyah, I presume? Come on in.”
I grinned at my parents as we walked into a foyer-like room.
“Miyah, come with me. The rest of you are free to make yourself at home right here,” the Professor said, beckoning me to follow him into an adjoining room.
“Sit right there,” he ordered, pointing to an old velvet peach colored chair, “while I release the pokčballs in front of you.”
“Okay,” I said, smiling at him.
He returned the smile before turning and taking some pokčballs out of a box. His smile immediately disappeared as he counted them. “Um, I believe I'm missing cyndaquil, is that okay? If you want, I can reorder one but it will take me a couple of weeks.”
“That’s okay, Professor,” I said. Even though cyndaquil was one of my top choices, I didn’t want to have to postpone my journey for one.
“Oh, good,” the professor said, releasing the first five pokčballs at once, “Well, take your time!”
The first pokčmon to emerge was a chicorita, a small, light-green colored dinosaur pokčmon with a leaf on its head and a necklace of flower buds sprouting on its neck.
Next to emerge was a blue bipedal crocodile pokčmon. As soon as the totodile came out, the chicorita turned and whacked the totodile harshly on the head with its leaf. After blinking a couple of times to clear its head, the totodile turned and clamped its sharp teeth on the chicorita’s leg.
While this was happening, the three Hoenn starters had emerged from their pokčballs and also started fighting; the torchic used ember on the treeko, the treeko used bullet seed on the mudkip, and the mudkip used water gun on the torchic.
Since these attacks were all super-affective on the pokčmon they were used on, all three Hoenn starters winded up fainting.
“Oh, dear!” exclaimed the Professor, “I'm so sorry! I forgot to send this batch out one at a time!” As the Professor said this, he dropped the last three pokčballs on the ground, and cursed loudly as they popped open.
Out of one of the pokčballs came a bulbasaur, a blue frog with a bulb on its back. The bulbasaur immediately sent out long vines and started to try to pull the totodile and chikorita apart.
Out of the next came a squirtle. To my disappointment, it turned its back on the melee, curled up, and started sleeping.
Last to come out was a bipedal orange lizard with large expressive eyes and a small fire on the end of its tail. Unlike the rest of the pokčmon, the charmander turned its attention to me. Its expression seemed to say, “Please pick me! Just get me away from them, and I promise I will do anything for you! I will love you, and if it is your wish, I will fight for you until my last breath leaves my dying body!”
I gasped as I heard this, for I realized that the charmander really had said that. I was just wondering why I understood, because I had never taken any pokčspeech lessons, but some loud laughing behind me interrupted my thoughts.
I turned around to behold that my family and Jaymi had heard the ruckus and come to see what was happening.
I tried my best to make myself heard over their laughter as I called, “Professor!” then louder, “PROFESSOR!!”
At which point he stopped chasing the chikorita around the room and panted, “Yes?”
“I’ll take the charmander,” I said, deciding on the spur of the moment.
“Phew,” he sighed, recalling the other pokčmon. “Now I can get you your license for your Pokčdex. Come on, you two, follow me.” He beckoned to Charmander and me.
Charmander shot me a look of pure happiness and gratitude as we made our way into the next room, which contained boxes of pokčdexes along with two computer-like machines. The Professor walked over to one of the machines and started typing.
“How do you spell your name?” he asked, still typing.
“M-i-y-a-h,” I said, then, as an afterthought, “A-s-e-n-t-i”
“Okay,” he said, “When is your birthday?”
“March 1st, 2021”
“Hold on.” The Professor had been typing all of this information down on the computer as I spoke. A whirring sound was emitted from the machine, and then a disk popped out of it. The Professor took the disk, took my proferred Pokčdex, and proceeded to scan the disk into it.
I stared at the number on the screen for a moment before I realized that the first part of the number was my birthday. The Professor noticed me staring blankly at the rest of it.
“You are the thirteenth person (13) to get a charmander (004) from me (7).” He explained, pointing to each part in turn.
“Why are you seven?” I asked, befuddled.
“No idea,” he responded, chuckling. “The other Professors are one through three, but I just up and get some random number. Such is the curse of my prowess!” He put a hand to his forehead, feigning weariness.
He then recalled the charmander to its pokčball and held it out in front of the pokčdex. The pokčdex made a beeping noise as the charmander’s stats were shown. A strange female mechanical voice read them off, “Charmander, male, level 5, moves known: Scratch, Growl, and Tackle. Charmander is the Lizard pokčmon. Obviously prefers hot places. When it rains, steam is said to sprout from the tip of its tail.”
“Could you turn the voice off for me before we go please? It’s quite annoying.”
The Professor laughed as he turned a switch at the back of the pokčdex. “Sure thing. Come now, its time for you to go. I have another appointment in a couple of minutes.” He escorted me back into the foyer-like room, which now seemed to me to be a cleverly disguised waiting room. My family and Jaymi had evidently come back in after seeing the ‘incident’ and were now standing up and shaking the Professor’s hand.
“Bye!” We waved as we got into the car and began the long drive towards home.
***
^^ FIN.
Well, What do you think? Good, no, maybe so?
Like I said, this is a long chapter. One of the longer ones. But most of them are around six page on Microsoft Word, the lowest so far being four pages, the longest, ten. Without the entering between paragraphs, that is. So maybe some of them will have to be in two posts. That remains to be seen.
Bwahahaha!!! *crashes into thread yet again.*
Silverwing;249;: Geez, at this rate the thread'll collapse by the third chapter.
Speaking of the third chapter, you combined the first three into one this time around! The chappie didn't seem too long to me.
And...and...you stole my pineapple!!!!!!
Anywho, you already explained the whole capitalizing thing to me, and I didn't notice any inconsistancies. ... ...I always felt like I should have not capitalized Pokemon, but was too lazy to change. My excuse is that Talking Animals' species are captialized in Narnia, so...yeah.[/crappyexcusethatChibiuseswaytoooften] Actually, I captalize way to many things. >< Rockets, Legendaries as a term, Pokemon elements,
Harry Potter quote!!! That I remember. But that I can't remember which part or book it's from! ><
Rating: FIVE STAR!! Just kidding. It’s PG.
xD That quote ftw. Best line ever.
*Points and laughs* You got knocked down two notches! xD And now people are throwing tomatoes at you...you stole my tomatoes, too!!!
Silverwing;249;: I can't believe what I'm hearing. >> *knockes Chibi down three notches.*
Alright, now to write something of quality.
I actually had the old thread open while reading the new one so that I could pick out the new stuff. Its weird how sticking the three chapters into one, completely rewriting thee intro, moving the dream, and spoofing the desciption here and there made so much of a difference! In any case, when new readers come and see this instead of the original, they'll be much more likely to stick around.
Unless they gets scared away by the super-human paragraph. People are fruits like that. >< Heck, JADE once got accused of mary-sue-ism. Readers are paranoid of that sort of thing. So... Anyone who flees of assuptions of 'sue-ism will have ME to seal with!!! Sic 'em, Zion!!!!
Zion;157;: *Snarls rabidly and shoots flames everywhere.*
*Backs away slowly.*
Silverwing;249;: Brilliant Chibi, now you sent her on a rampage and scared away all the other readers.
Ack, no!!! I can fix it! Everyone come baaack!!
Chikorita got misspelled once.[/Random]
Rereading the beginning makes the whole embryo thing make more sense now. *brain still spiraling from the mayor's lab explantaion.* So, a question--she's descended from one of the original experimental humans. How many generations back was that?
Ahahahaha!!!!! Continuity issue!!!! *immature spazz* In the new one, she opens hew b-day presents and gets a Pokedex. But she also gets a Pokedex from the Professor, just like in the old one! xD
Having the age limit at 15 makes way more sense than 12 *dies* Actually, the only reason I set the age limit at 12 for LC, was because anything higher would make some other characters too old. Even still...for quite awhile I've considered chagining it to 13. I just wondered how everyone would respond. ><
Heehee, I like the "Radnom-number-Professor" quote. xP
Now that you've explained Blaze's personality, his first quote is that much funnier. ^^
Anyway...I can't wait to see how the rest ends up getting revised! ^^
~Chibi~;249;;rukario;
Chareon
23rd July 2006, 5:21 AM
Yay! Chibi Pika's long review of doom! I've been dying for one of those for a long time!!
Speaking of the third chapter, you combined the first three into one this time around! The chappie didn't seem too long to me.
Yeah... :3 Most of my chapters are either two in one or three in one now. I've just found better places to cut them off, that's all. *chuckles* Except for one. You know, the ten page one that was randomly inserted into the four page average PoF thread? I left that alone. *purrs*
And...and...you stole my pineapple!!!!!!
*glances around slyly* So what if I did? You gonna make sumthin' of it?
In actuality, I've been saying "Or I'll whack you over the head with a pineapple" quite often. *gigglesnort* (<- heh. that's yours too!)
*Points and laughs* You got knocked down two notches! xD And now people are throwing tomatoes at you...you stole my tomatoes, too!!!
*is puzzled* I don't remember you having tomatoes thrown at you... I thought that came from Garfield?
Ahahahaha!!!!! Continuity issue!!!! *immature spazz* In the new one, she opens hew b-day presents and gets a Pokedex. But she also gets a Pokedex from the Professor, just like in the old one! xD
*screams* Oh no!! How could this happen? I've read and reread and revised and edited and double checked so many times that I could probably recite the whole fan fic by heart AND I MISS THAT???? *dies* *revives long enough to scurry away and fix error*
Now that you've explained Blaze's personality, his first quote is that much funnier. ^^
Hey, now... No subliminally bragging that I've told you WAYY too much about PoF! And ESPECIALLY no giving away stuff that the readers shouldn't know yet! *tsk tsk*
Well... Now that I've responded to and analyzed every bit of Chibi Pika's post, does anyone have any questions? I can't answer things that are past chapter one, as of now, but feel free to clear things up if you need. A lot of things that aren't clear now will be later on, though, so I may tell you to wait! xP
Also, anyone for the PM list? As of now, there are 0 people on it... Just tell me at the end of your posts if you want to be notified.
By the time we had driven home, dusk was beginning to fall. I was especially glad to get out of the car, because although like the others I wanted to stretch my legs, my mom wouldn’t let me take Charmander out of his Pokčball in the car.
“His tail flame will set the car on fire!” she had said.
So now that I was home, I released him into the newly cleaned living room.
“Charr!” he said, popping out of his Pokčball. Then, he said in real words, “I wonder where I am?”
“You’re at my house er... Charmander,” I answered, not knowing exactly what to call him.
Charmander gave me a surprised look. “You took pokčspeech lessons?” he asked. “You were supposed to tell the Professor if you had. He’s taking a poll of all of the people who have, you know.”
“I know,” I said, “Its part of the registration process. ‘It is the trainer’s responsibility to inform the pokčmon Professor that you get your starter pokčmon from if you have taken any introductory pokčspeech or pokčspeech courses.’” I had memorized this information way back when I was twelve. “I didn’t do my duty because I really never have taken any lessons.”
Charmander looked even more surprised at this, although he looked slightly relieved at the same time. “Oh. Well then, why do you know pokčspeech?”
I then related to Charmander all that had happened today, and what my grandfather had explained to me.
“Wow, I had always hoped for a special trainer, but I had never imagined anything like this! Although,” he added as an afterthought, “for a second there I thought I had gotten a lying trainer!”
I laughed, which must have wiped away any remaining doubt he had left, for he grinned, a broad grin which exposed his pointy charmander teeth.
“So,” I said, suddenly curious, “what about you? Now you know some stuff about me, so I want to know some stuff about you!”
“Well,” he told me, “I'm just a normal charmander from a normal family. Nothing special like you. I was the eldest of three other siblings, two males and a female. They and I used to talk a lot at night when we should have been sleeping about what an ideal trainer should be. Our ideas got wilder and wilder, such as being trained by a legendary pokčmon, until our mother, who by then obviously knew of our discussions, told us to ‘shut up and go to bed’. Once I got to level five, my mommy flew me to the Professor’s. There I waited with those other tyrannical pokčmon, excluding bulbasaur of course, until you came. I'm guessing you know the rest,” he finished with a laugh.
“Charmander,” I said, struck by a sudden thought, “what’s your name? I'm not sure I want to call you Charmander all the time. It gets kind of old, hearing other people calling their pokčmon by their breed all the time, you know what I mean?”
“Glad you mentioned it, I don’t much like the thought of that either. My name’s Blaze.”
“Cool!” I said.
Throughout the time that I was talking with Blaze, my parents and Jaymi apparently had packed all of the stuff for my journey that was to begin the next day, and now came filing into the living room, collapsing on the other sofa.
“Thanks guys!” I said, upon hearing of their accomplishment.
“Oops!” said my mom randomly, smacking herself with her hand, “Miyah, dear, the only thing we forgot is the money for you. Could you go get it?”
“Of course, Mom,” I said, “Where is it?”
“In the dresser in my room— the one that’s the same as the one you have, top shelf.”
I got up and walked into my parent’s room, closely followed by a curious Blaze. I spotted the dresser in question almost immediately. As it was dark in the room, even with the small table lamp on, I couldn't see into the drawer. Reaching in confidently, (having reached the same way into my own dresser for years) I was surprised when my hand hit the bottom much earlier than expected.
“Ouch!” I exclaimed sucking on my jammed fingers. “Hey Blaze, could you jump up here and use your tail flame as a light for a second please?”
He obliged, and with the newly added light, I saw the money almost immediately. I grabbed the many bills, and as I did, I saw a small finger-sized hole in the bottom of the drawer under the spot where the money had been.
“Look!” I said excitedly to Blaze. I removed the rest of the junk that had also been in the drawer, stuck my finger into the hole, and lifted. There, in the real bottom of the drawer, was a yellowed scrap of paper, which upon closer inspection was revealed to be a newspaper article, dated three years ago:
Scientists discover way to merge people with Pokčmon!
For a long time, writes Lisa Carson, people have been wondering what the scientists in Kounei forest have been up to. Now, at last, we know! “We've been working on this for years,” one scientist explains. “Although we know exactly how to merge people with pokčmon, it will take a couple of years for us to find someone who is enough like a certain pokčmon that we can merge them.” The scientist further explained that the pokčmon and human who are to merge have to have similar characteristics and both have to agree to the merging. None of the scientists, however, would tell exactly how they could achieve this, for fear of their idea being stolen by their rivals in...
Continued on B4
And that was all there was. I flipped it over, but there was only an advertisement for a coin laundry.
“Miyah! What happened, did you get lost?” my mom shouted from the living room, while everyone else laughed at her quip.
“Coming!” I yelled, quickly replacing the article, the false bottom, and all of the junk. Blaze followed me as I quickly walked back to the living room.
“Sorry,” I said, knowing that even if I didn’t want to, I had to lie, “I was just astonished by the amount of money you guys are giving me! There’s like...” I started to count the pokčdollars in my hand but my mom interrupted.
“... Twenty-five hundred,” She finished, “We know that you have five hundred saved so you can start off with three thousand.”
“Wow,” Jaymi remarked, “I only had two! But look,” She pulled out her pokčdex, “There's a compartment on the back for your money!” she pulled it open, revealing some bills. “And your pokčdex will keep track of the money in there for you.”
“Cool,” I said, pulling out my own Pokčdex and adding the money my parents gave me, before dashing off to retrieve my own from my room, followed, yet again, by Blaze.
“Is this your room?” he asked, looking surprised.
“Yeah,” I said, “why?”
“It’s just that,” he paused, then continued, “you didn’t seem like a very smart trainer, yet you have so many encyclopedias and such.”
“Oh,” I said, slightly abashed, “After they changed the age limit for beginning trainers, I decided to try and become the best trainer ever. I studied for almost a year before my dad gave me a talk about how ‘a good trainer isn’t made from books’. I haven’t really studied since.” I walked to my dresser, grabbed my Sproink bank, smashed it on the ground, and grabbed the pokčbucks that were scattered amongst the shards.
“Hmm...” Blaze looked at the shards of ceramic on the ground.
“What?” I asked.
“Do you think you could fix that with, you know, your powers?”
I frowned. “Lemme try.” I concentrated as hard as I could, but nothing happened.
“Maybe if you imagine the pieces reassembling?” Blaze suggested.
This time, I concentrated hard while imagining the pieces floating in midair.
Suddenly, the spectrum took on a very bluish tinge as the pieces lifted up into the air. I reassembled them in midair, holding them there, while asking Blaze, “Could you sort of melt this back together?”
Blaze nodded, and by grabbing his tail and blowing the flames towards the held together pieces of ceramic, he welded the pieces back together.
I laughed, grabbing the newly fixed, but slightly funny looking sproink bank and putting back on my dresser. “We did it!” I exclaimed. Then I looked up at the clock. “We should get some sleep,” I said. Blaze and I walked out into the living room to say good night to my parents and Jaymi, explaining that we wanted to get an early start the next morning.
As I got into bed, I heard a “Good night!” from Blaze. I smiled, replying, “Good night!” as I recalled him to his pokčball.
The next morning, I woke up very early, grabbed my new belt, with Blaze’s pokčball on it, and backpack, with all of the new stuff in it, put on my bandana, and left while my family was still sleeping. I had never been one for goodbyes, so I avoided them at all costs.
I had decided last night, after viewing the newspaper clipping, that I would seek out the scientists and see if I qualified to be merged with a pokčmon.
I set out into the woods near my home; they were a branch of the Kounei forest, and followed a trail that had been cut through the forest from years of forest pokčmon following it. I knew it had to lead somewhere, so I followed it, calling Blaze out of his Pokčball to keep me company.
We walked along in silence for a while, savoring the quiet of the deep woods. Suddenly, as we stepped into a clearing, we saw what looked to be a young, deer-like pokčmon chewing on a clump of sage. It appeared to be a stantler, but as soon as it looked up, I could tell that it wasn’t one. I whipped out my Pokčdex and scanned it. ‘Fawneer, the fawn pokčmon. Fawneer is a pre-evolved form of stantler. Fawneer are reclusive Pokčmon, who like to live in deep forests.’ I read.
When the fawneer saw me, it turned, which exposed the pale spots on its back, and started to run away.
“Wait!” I called, “Want to battle me?”
The fawneer stopped running and turned, shaking its head before bounding off into the forest.
“Darn,” I said, “I was hoping to have our first pokčmon battle.”
“Next time,” Blaze laughed, “challenge it to a battle before it starts to run away.”
“Oh,” I said, “I forgot about that.” Then, I laughed, “I wasn’t thinking; I guess I was too excited.”
We continued to walk along the path, sometimes encountering and battling wild pokčmon, but no others that I might want to try and catch.
Then, as we rounded a bend in the path, a wild eevee leapt out of the bushes and stood right in the middle of the path.
“Battle me!” it said, although I figured that it didn’t know I could understand.
“Sure thing,” I replied, “Go! Blaze!”
Blaze leaped out in front of me, calling out, “Charrrr!!”
“Blaze, use tackle!” I shouted, as Blaze charged at the eevee. As Blaze got close, the eevee jumped out of the way, and used its own headbutt attack which hit Blaze squarely in the side. Although the attack winded him, I could tell that he wasn’t hurt too badly.
“Er,” I said not entirely sure what to do next, “Use scratch while its close!” I yelled, hoping that Blaze wouldn’t miss.
Sure enough, Blaze scored a direct hit on eevee’s back leg with his sharp little claws as it tried to get away from the attack.
The eevee limped away quickly so Blaze couldn't get a chance to scratch it again. It turned and with surprising speed launched a quick attack towards Blaze.
“Blaze, step aside and use scratch again when it gets closer!”
Yet again, Blaze scored a direct hit on the eevee, this time on its face. Purely by accident, the Eevee’s momentum after the quick attack was so much so that, even skidding along, it ran straight into a tree. As the eevee was staggering around, trying to clear its head, I grabbed an empty pokčball from my belt and tossed it at the eevee. The ball rocked as the eevee tried to escape, once, twice, thrice! Then, it was still.
“YES!” I shouted, “I caught my first wild pokčmon! Nice work Blaze!” I said as I let out the eevee.
“You did all the work,” he said modestly, but he was interrupted by a loud wail.
“NOO!!” another pokčmon came running into the clearing, obviously distraught. “After all of the warnings I gave you, you just had to battle someone, didn’t you Kara, and now look what happened! You got caught!” By now I recognized the cream colored, fiery dog that was yelling at Eevee, who was obviously its pup. It was a flareon, the fiery evolution of eevee.
“I'm sorry, mom,” said the eevee in an obviously female voice, “But the only reason I did run off and fight a battle was because you never let me do anything. I have no regrets that I got caught, because now I can get away from you and all of your stupid rules!” The eevee turned to me, “Thank you for capturing me, now, can we go?” it asked.
“Of course,” I said, “But only after you apologize to your mom, and say goodbye.” Eevee glowered, but did as I ordered.
“Sorry mom, see you around,” it said before turning away.
“Thank you,” said the flareon, and as it said this, I heard a sizzling noise. The noise turned out to be flareon’s tears evaporating as they hit her fiery fur.
“J-just take good care of her,” she said, before turning and bounding off, crying harder than ever.
“Sorry I made you do that, Eevee, but I didn’t want you to have any regrets later, you know what I mean?”
“I know,” said Eevee, “But please do call me Kara. By the way, how did you learn pokčspeech?”
“I’ll explain while we eat lunch,” I said, setting out a picnic blanket that my parents had given me.
After explaining everything to Kara (who had a very good appetite and ate all of her own food plus half of Blaze’s) she said, “Prove it, put away all of the picnic supplies.” I did, resulting in a very happy Kara when I picked her up too.
“Whee!” she cried happily, “I’m flying!”
“Me too,” shouted Blaze, holding his arms up, so I picked them both up and flew them around for a while.
“I can’t wait until I'm a charizard and can do that on my own!” said Blaze, when I set them back down.
“Oh, yeah, that reminds me,” I turned to Kara, “What do you want to evolve into? I know eevees can evolve into jolteon, flareon, vaporeon, espeon, and umbreon, and I was wondering which you liked.”
“I think I like vaporeon, but I guess we’ll see. I don’t want you to have to spend money on me, you know, for a water stone.”
“Don’t worry, Kara, I’ll spend the money if that’s what you want, but for now, I don’t quite think you're ready to do anything other than think about it.”
“Oh,” she said, looking thoughtful before turning and limping towards the path.
“Hey Kara, get back here,” I said, picking her up and floating her back. I reached into my backpack and pulled out a potion, squirting some on both her and Blaze. “There,” I said, before walking out onto the path with both of them walking happily after me.
We walked for another day before anything happened. Kara pointed out that the trees seemed to be thinning slightly, and when we rounded a bend in the trail, the three of us stopped dead, too astounded to speak.
There, before us was the most beautiful lake I had ever seen. The surface of the lake was so still it reflected the trees on the other side.
“Beautiful, isn’t it?” said a voice from behind us. We whipped around, ready to fight, but it was only a guy that was perhaps a smidgeon older than me, smiling disarmingly.
“Er, yeah,” I said hesitantly, then, in a much more confident voice, “Who are you?”
“I'm Rick,” he stated simply. “And you are...”
“Miyah, and this Blaze and Kara.”
“Cool,” he grinned devilishly, “fancy a battle?”
“Two on two?” I asked.
“Sure!” he took out two Pokčballs. “Go, Chikorita and Metapod!”
“Go and kick some butt, Blaze and Kara!”
“Metapod, harden up, Chikorita, use a vine whip and throw that eevee for a loop!”
“Kara, avoid the vines and headbutt the metapod! Blaze, tackle the chikorita and then while its stunned try an ember!” I yelled, praying that the ember attack would work; it was our only advantage that could lead to victory.
Kara meanwhile was avoiding one of the long, leafy tendrils that Chikorita was maneuvering about very well until the other one snaked around behind her and grabbed her, hauling her straight up into the air. Chikorita had just started to twirl Kara in circles when Blaze tackled her. Kara was dropped, rather than thrown; therefore she immediately ran up to the metapod and headbutted it, looking at me for more instruction when nothing happened.
“Keep headbutting!” I shouted.
Blaze, while this was happening, was trying to figure out how to use ember as Chikorita tried to regain her wind.
“Imagine yourself doing it Blaze!” I shouted, feeding his words back at him.
Once more, he tried, and succeeded magnificently, burning the Chikorita with a cluster of flamey embers that he spewed from his mouth. To his astonishment, the Chikorita got back up.
Kara stopped headbutting Metapod as it was suddenly picked up by Chicorita’s vines. Chikorita swung Metapod along the ground at a high speed.
“Jump, Kara!” I shouted, and Kara obeyed with alacrity, jumping over the
Metapod, regaining her feet as Chikorita swung Metapod around again.
“Keep jumping!” I shouted, and would have laughed at the strange jump-rope game if I didn’t have more pressing matters on my mind.
“Blaze, burn the vines!”
Timing it just right, Blaze shot out more embers at the swinging metapod, which, although they didn’t really hurt the metapod, snapped the vines holding it. The metapod went sailing through the air majestically, only to be stopped by a tree.
“Metapod, return!” Rick called, as his chikorita drew its vines back in, panting.
“Kara, headbutt, Blaze, use ember while it’s distracted.”
Kara ran towards the seemingly done for Chikorita, excited by her first pokčmon battle and the upcoming win. But the Chikorita had one more trick up her sleeve. It swung its head around and released a razor sharp leaf from off its head, right into Kara’s face. Although Kara fainted, her distraction proved a winner as Blaze caught Chikorita in another devastating ember attack.
Rick and I recalled our fainted Pokčmon at the same time, congratulating each other on the well played battle.
“Good job, Blaze!” I said as I called Kara back out of her pokčball to heal her.
When she came out, she looked utterly depressed.
“Kara,” said Blaze, ever the one to cheer someone up, “You do realize that I
couldn't have won the battle if you hadn’t distracted the Chikorita, right?”
“I know,” she replied, “but I still wish I hadn’t fainted.” She still looked sad.
“I know what will cheer you up!” I said, “A picnic lunch! Want to join us Rick?”
“Sure,” he replied, releasing his three Pokčmon (Chikorita, Metapod and Pikachu) to join in, as the ever hungry eevee perked up.
“So,” I asked Rick while we cleaned up after the picnic, conventionally of course, “How far is it to the nearest town?”
“Only about a half of a day’s journey on the same path you’re traveling on now. The town’s a small one, not on any maps or anything; it’s called Brookdale.”
“Cool,” I said, happy at the idea that we could refresh our supplies and get cleaned up. “Are you headed that way?” I asked him, “You’re welcome to join us if you want.”
“Sure, I guess. I wasn’t originally headed that direction, but its not too far out of the way to escort a pretty trainer like yourself.”
“If you think I’m pretty you must be a cross-eyed politoed!” I replied. I had never been too good with compliments. “So what’s this lake called anyways,” I asked, changing the subject abruptly.
“The Lake of Reflection,” he said, still smiling slightly at my comeback.
“Wow,” I said sarcastically, “I wonder how it got that name?”
“I dunno,” he said, playing along, “maybe some old guy who likes to think a lot named it.”
We broke out into laughter as the two of us and our pokčmon set off towards Brookdale.
***
Well? What do you think? I had to re=space the paragraphs, so if there's a really wierd separation, be sure to point it out... xD I'm pretty sure I got them, but... Heh.
;196; ~Chareon
Libie
25th November 2006, 9:37 PM
ARGH, my computer is so annoying. It didn't lag today, but decided to randomly log me out when I tried to post a reply. *is very close to hitting screen but knows that no computer is worse than slow computer. Marginally*
Okay, right, phew. Firstly, I think some bits sound rushed, as if you're racing to get it done on time. (I can't exactly talk, but I think I only end up with typos/small grammar errors.) For example, the Pokémon Professor isn't named or described, which could be fine if you'd made the dialogue more *tries to think of a synonym for 'descriptive' and fails* descriptive, ie with more personality/character, like with Rick. I know the Professor's only a minor character but it helps to flesh out the story *cringes at saying - been watching too much Torchwood*.
Secondly, I think the main character (Miyah? read story yesterday and forgot destails -_-''') develops her powers AMAZINGLY quickly. I mean, repairing a piggy-bank just when she's discovered her powers? We've all seen how small some bits of shattered pottery/glass can be, right? Unless she's got a male brain (or a rather huge testosterone surge), she wouldn't have anything near the spacial ability to consciously replace the pieces. I understand that it's fiction, but it bugs me. Soz. Oh, and the fact that she can lift an Eevee, I accept, but Charmander too? It'd be like holding them both with one hand, which, to be honest, would be quite heavy. Nevermind flying them around.
Oh, and just a suggestion, but I don't think the elements inside the special people do ANYTHING to their personalities. I mean, for someone who could freeze 'everything around [him] in a twenty foot radius', he seems rather 'normal,' the sort of grandpa that'd lie on the ground yelling at kids that he hasn't had his dose of caffeine (although I'm not quite sure, since he doesn't make too much of an appearance). Either make their personalities really affected (ie make Miyah a bookworm lacking severely in social skills (Aspergers? *been reading "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time", or whatever it's called*), or her Grandpa really cold and aloof, although 'tis a bit late for that), or polar opposite to their element (ie Grandpa have a really short temper, smoke coming out his nostrils when he's angry). It'd make everything really interesting.
Finally, good points. Yipee!
(1) Big dose of originality. VERY good reason for how she can communicate with Pokémon (she can read their minds. Full stop. Clean and efficient).
(2) Well written, although (yep, more crit *waits for readers to groan*) Miyah appears to be something of a Mary-Sue (Eevee, pretty (?), sympathetic and caring towards her Pokémon and not (yet) showing any bad traits), and I have to tut you for that. *Tuts*
(3) Good character development of Charmander and Eevee! With full background stories and stuff! Although why would Charizard give their young to humans? If they did wouldn't PokéLabs overflow with babies? Expansion on PokéBehaviour = GODLY.
(4) Interesting plot, that newspaper cutting will come back to haunt us, in your own words, I believe ;)
(5) Oh yeah, another point about originality: nice description of the new PokéRegion (yay for words beginning with Poké!). And great stuff with the Legendary *Whatevers*, although I suspect some person somewhere will be mortified at the descriptions of Entei as a dog, Suicune as a wolf and Raikou as a tiger. I usually avoid using them even though I luff Suicune for this reason only. I personally heartily agree *ducks flying vegetables thrown by angry readers* with you, though (apart from Entei. He is SO a lion!), as well as the genders *ducks another volley of assorted fruitables (fruit+vegetables = tomatoes! No, not really, fruitables, I mean)*
(6) Stuff about the Mother is nice, always thought of Mew as a child, but this radically changes my perception. Good interpretation! Although the Mother stuff sort of less impresses me now because of AEON, lol. Still great concept, though ;)
Right, I'll stop now. Hope I haven't forgotten anything!
Chareon
25th November 2006, 10:06 PM
Okay. So, at the moment, I am madly in luff with you, for I thought that this thread would wither and die and sink into the abyss. Thanks for reviewing!
-dances-
Okay, down the business.
Secondly, I think the main character (Miyah? read story yesterday and forgot destails -_-''') develops her powers AMAZINGLY quickly. I mean, repairing a piggy-bank just when she's discovered her powers? We've all seen how small some bits of shattered pottery/glass can be, right?
It's pottery, first of all - it wouldn't be that small, but... Yeah, I can fix that. I'll say when she broke it it like, split into four pieces or something. -mumbles and wanders off to fix-
Oh, and the fact that she can lift an Eevee, I accept, but Charmander too?
And yeah, the point of her throwing pieces of furniture around with telekenisis is to show how their powers come to them in one giant surge, and once they get them, all they have to do is refine them to use them. Also, in a lot of thing that have people with psychic abilities, they can lift themselves, can't they? If Miyah could lift herself, she could definately lift a Charmander, if that gives you more perspective.
Either make their personalities really affected (ie make Miyah a bookworm lacking severely in social skills (Aspergers? *been reading "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time", or whatever it's called*), or her Grandpa really cold and aloof, although 'tis a bit late for that), or polar opposite to their element
I thought about that when I first started writing the fic, but the position that her grandfather plays in relation to the plot and such is so important that I just couldn't have him be all "cold and aloof". So, if I couldn't do it to him, I couldn't do it to Miyah. -shrugs- It's too late to fix it anyways.
Miyah appears to be something of a Mary-Sue (Eevee, pretty (?), sympathetic and caring towards her Pokémon and not (yet) showing any bad traits), and I have to tut you for that. *Tuts*
Did I really say she was pretty? -can remember, goes off to reread- Meh. Yeah, my cousin warned me about that. I have no idea who this Mary-Sue is that you speak of, but I understand your point. She does have downsides (especially with the charisma thing. you'll see that later), and of course she's caring towards her pokemon! They're her friends! Don't you care about your friends? -tuts at readers who think Miyah is a Mary-Sue thing- So if someone likes pokemon, they are Mary-Sue? That doesn't leave a very broad range of character traits left open... But maybe if someone told me who she was, I'd understand better.
Big dose of originality. VERY good reason for how she can communicate with Pokémon (she can read their minds. Full stop. Clean and efficient).
Thanks muchly! -bows-
(apart from Entei. He is SO a lion!)
Aww, I got that earlier, too. -feels outnumbered- But do you really think I should change those descriptions? One of those Legendaries is quite a major character... -shuts up- Anyways, I think on that account, I'll leave that be. Author's opinion, you know.
Well, thanks again for reviewing. Shall I Pm you for the next chapter? At the moment, my Pm list is down to one... (last revision there was like six O.o) ...so it's okay if you don't want me to.
Good character development of Charmander and Eevee! With full background stories and stuff! Although why would Charizard give their young to humans? If they did wouldn't PokéLabs overflow with babies? Expansion on PokéBehaviour = GODLY.
I forgot this bit. Thank you muchly! I love Kara's personality. -winks- She's funny. Kind of a foil is you know what I mean... xD
Alright, done now. The next chapter is almost done, just got some editing to you. In the meantime, au revoir!
-flies away-
;196; ~Chareon
Libie
25th November 2006, 10:45 PM
Mary-Sues are 'prefect' (ie pretty, intelligent, talented) women. In Pokémon fics, I believe that includes the fact that they possess rare Pokémon as well.
Oh, and that stuff of powers all coming at one is cool. But if they were so powerful (as they should be... no?), wouldn't they overwhelm her, at least? But your explanation makes sense ^_^
Oh, I luff you too. French is so cool. *jumps around the room*
Chareon
2nd December 2006, 2:09 AM
Oh, and that stuff of powers all coming at one is cool. But if they were so powerful (as they should be... no?), wouldn't they overwhelm her, at least? But your explanation makes sense ^_^
Uh huh! They do - that's why she faints!
And thanks for clearing up that dratted Mary-Sue deal for me...
In Pokémon fics, I believe that includes the fact that they possess rare Pokémon as well.
O.o Ooh..... Well, then. People aren't going to like a chapter or so later on if that's the case. BUT. Later on, it is explained why, though, so don't jump to conclusions, all of you (closet or not) readers!
French is so cool.
Juez sue anana! Man, I think my spelling stinks... But pronounce it!
I am a pineapple!
Yay!
shadowlight
5th December 2006, 1:19 AM
I enjoyed this chapter a lot.
I liked how rick hit her pokemon with a metapod.
Kara seems like a good charactor.
I was wondering if you were going to use the 4th gen pokemon.
And if you would use a 4th gen Eeveelution.
Can I please be put on the PM list.
I can't ait for the next chapter.
Chareon
20th December 2006, 2:11 AM
Thanks so much, shadowlight! I've been working on this for so long, that it's nice to have new people read it and comment. On to you questions...
I was wondering if you were going to use the 4th gen pokemon.
And if you would use a 4th gen Eeveelution.
No and no. I started writing this before all of that and will continue without such things. I hope this will not make you falter in your future reading. I can assure you - this is still a good fic without them! xD
I don't know when the next chapter will be up. What did I say last time? I don't remember. Look at that, it'll probably be the same plus a week. OR. I think I'll post it as a WINTER HOLIDAY present. Yes.
For the past few months I've been telling myself "it's only one chapter, I can read and review it tomorrow," only...'tomorrow' never came...
Silverwing;249;: ?Tomorrow! Tomorrow! I'll--? *Clobbered.*
*Cough* Anywho!
Ya HAH! Told you people were paranoid about 'sue-ism. *Nods* In fact, if it weren't for the background and character development yada, that same Eevee-catching scene would have been poison in a n00b fic. And yet, only because it's Eevee...? It's weird how things like that work, and I don't even care whether or not a Pokemon is "overused." (I HATE it when people complain about that!)
I still love the battle between Rick and Miyah, although it, like before, feels rough in transition. Like one minute they're talking and the next, battle! I don't mean that it wasn't introduced well, because it was, but... From the time the Pokeballs are opened to the second set of instructions, there's no action, so it still felt like part of the conversation, if that makes sense.
No and no. I started writing this before all of that and will continue without such things. I hope this will not make you falter in your future reading. I can assure you - this is still a good fic without them! xD
Heh, I like your resolve. I'm so flimsy that I ran LC through the meathacker to make it completely 4th gen.
Silverwing;249;: I thought you said you didn't have to change anything.
Er, that is...all the changes were in my head. ^^;
I forgot this bit. Thank you muchly! I love Kara's personality. -winks- She's funny. Kind of a foil is you know what I mean... xD
*Falls on floor laughing at the...um, blunt description of Kara that you told me. xD
Btw, I don't mind being on the PM list. Just clarifying that. ^^; You're on mine, anyway. =P Although mine is sorta unofficial.
So...yeah, uh hurry up with the chappie! Don't be like me! xD
And by the way: Merry Christmas: Clicky (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v607/ChibiPika/PFbanner.jpg)
Silverwing;249;: Christmas isn't until Monday you dolt.
I know, but I can't wait to give it to her, it took so long to make!
Silverwing;249;: By "so long" meaning Chibi was bored this afternoon and needed something to do. >>
Well? Suprised? I wasn't sure what to have as the tagline, so I browsed the prologue and found something simple and concise *coughunlikeminecough*. And...I realize I'm not as good as the banner masters, but it is only my second one.
~Chibi~;249;;448;
Chareon
21st December 2006, 5:16 AM
OH MY GAWD! Thanks so much! -fondles new banner-
It's so pretty...
Guess again!
You know, when I clicked open this thread and spotted that you had posted, I actually shouted "Oh my God!" And then I said it again with my Christmas present! -cuddles-
So...yeah, uh hurry up with the chappie! Don't be like me! xD
If I ever had so long between chapters as you, I'd need to start like 8 more fanfics. But then again... I don't have a job. Neither am I packing anything. /referencetoconnections
xD
Heh. Of course, I write short stories in my spare time, when I should write PoF. -whacks self over head-
So. I'll probably come back here monday... You'll see why... ;]
-flies away on CP's left behind mystical lugia plushie-
Hahaha I stole it from you!
;249; ~Chareon
Chareon
1st January 2007, 11:40 PM
Yeah, so I think this is Chapter 3.
-dashes off to check-
Yup. Okay, here it is! Sorry for the delay. Happy New Year!
Oh, and just a warning? This chapter is cliche, and sappy, and all of those things I don't like. I redid it, but it still isn't my favorite. Ah, well. Tell me what you think!
Rating: Pg13?
Chapter 3
“How much further is it?” asked Clover, Rick’s Chikorita. “We’re way off course you know! It’s almost morning again! You said it would be less than a day!”
“Hush, Chikorita,” responded Rick in Pokčspeech, figuring I couldn't understand, “We’ll be there soon. Besides, we still have a week to get there.”
Chikorita snorted, turning and muttering under her voice to Pikachu.
“What are you talking about?” I asked, remembering my grandpa’s words about not revealing my powers, which included Pokčspeech without studies.
“Don’t you know?” he asked, looking surprised, yet strangely relieved, “You work so well with your Pokčmon; I'm surprised you can’t understand.”
“I understand mine fairly well, just not other people’s. Besides,” I added with a look at Clover, “you don’t seem to get along very well with your Pokčmon even with Pokčspeech.”
“Oh, her? She’s just jealous that you get more attention than she does.”
“Why don’t you tell her the truth?” said Clover harshly in Pokčspeech, “That I'm not actually your Pokčmon and that if it wasn’t my master’s wish I wouldn’t be within ten miles of you!”
“Shut it!” hissed Rick through his teeth (in Pokčspeech of course), “I’m not sure I trust her, and I'm sure you don’t at all. I just want to see her safely through these woods. When she gets to Brookdale and hears about the ‘guardian’ from those superstitious villagers, she won't be coming back this way. We can’t let her discover either of the labs!”
“We should just let the guardian get her!” responded Clover.
“You know the guardian is a fake!” he laughed.
“What's up?” I inserted, feeling wary of my ‘new’ traveling companions, though I did my best not to show it. We had been walking this whole time throughout Rick and Clover’s conversation, and I had just started to feel uncomfortable eavesdropping. Besides, I would be lost without Rick and couldn't risk a confrontation now.
“Clover just has a bit of a stomach ache,” he replied, while the Chikorita attempted a pained face. Knowing what actually occurred, the grimace seemed to be very fake, although I probably would have believed them in other circumstances.
“That sucks,” I said, then, “Where are we?”
I had stopped walking and looked around. We had been traveling through flat woodlands for most of the day before, but the landscape had become increasingly uneven, with more and more valleys, cliffs, and hills. Without Rick, I would have been so lost. As it was, he had led us fairly well, taking the flattest routes and avoiding most of the major obstacles.
“Um,” Rick stopped and looked around. “We’re a bit off course, but if we just walk through this thicket over here...” he turned and walked off the right.
“Wouldn’t it be smarter to go around the thicket?” asked Chikorita incredulously.
“Shouldn’t we go around the thicket?” I asked to save Rick translating.
“No,” he said, “It’s easier to get off course if you don’t go in a straight li—aaaaaaaaaaaahhh...!”
All the pokčmon and I gaped in astonishment at the place where Rick had just disappeared.
“Rick!?” I called out, moving forward to investigate.
“Careful,” said Kara, looking worried.
When I got to the spot where Rick had vanished, there suddenly wasn’t any ground beneath me!
“Eeeeekk!” I screamed, falling off of the edge what appeared to be a cliff, like the ones I had seen around but hadn’t stopped to worry about. Obviously, I should have. All this I thought in the millisecond before I really started to fall. But when gravity took its toll, my only thoughts were to grab on to something, anything... when suddenly, I did. The most wonderful, beautiful, best placed tree root I had ever seen in my life was suddenly in my hands, stopping my descent.
After a moments pause, my head had cleared enough to take in the situation. I was hanging from a tree root coming out of a small ledge about fifty feet down the side of a cliff, with a hundred or so more feet between me and the valley floor below. To my surprise, when I looked down, I could see Rick hanging in the same fashion as I from a tree root about ten feet below me and ten feet to my left.
“A little assistance please?” he called plaintively.
“Hold on,” I said, swinging up onto the ledge. As soon as I had secured myself onto the branch, I desperately tried to use my powers, but to no avail. I opened my pack and started digging around frantically for my rope. I had just gotten my hands on it when I hear a loud CRACK! From below me.
“HURRY!” shouted Rick in a panic as his tree root snapped and he was left suspended from the fraying bark.
I hurriedly pulled out the rope and fastened it to my far more secure tree root. I then threw the rope down to him. Unfortunately, his tree root was about ten feet to the side of me, so the rope didn’t get remotely near him.
“Oh no!” I moaned, quickly pulling the rope back up.
***
All throughout this ordeal, I could hear our Pokčmon’s voices drifting down to us from above, although I tuned them out because there were more pressing matters at hand.
After the first moments of panic before I caught hold of the tree branch, they were discussing how to get us back up.
“Clover, use your Vine Whip!” shouted Pikachu, “We’ve got to get them back up here!”
“Do you seriously think my Vine Whip is that long!?” she said, “I couldn't reach them even if I wanted to!”
“As a Bayleef my vines wouldn’t be any longer,” said Clover; then speaking for the mute Metapod, “And a Butterfree wouldn’t be of much help either, seeing as they can’t lift anything heavier than a toothpick...”
“Raichu?” said Pikachu, “Wouldn’t be any more helpful. Besides, I’d need a thunderstone...”
“If I could skip Charmeleon, Charizard would be helpful, but, seeing as I can't...”
All of the pokčmon turned to look at Kara, an eevee.
“I’d need a stone to evolve,” she said, looking utterly depressed. “Darn it!” she wailed suddenly, “my master’s life depends on me and I can’t do anything!! AARGH!”
Suddenly, she started to glow with a shimmery light, which at first the other Pokčmon contributed to the sun, casting the first rays of dawn onto the ground; before they realized that she was evolving.
“She’s evolving with friendship!” exclaimed Blaze, “she’ll either turn into an Espeon or an Umbreon, depending whether it’s night or day, but with it being like this, she probably gets to choose for herself!”
The Pokčmon gasped as, a few moments later, Kara reappeared into the sun-bathed morning in all the glory of an espeon.
***
I tied the rope around my waist, cinching it as tight as I could before jumping off of my branch. I rappelled down to just about the same height as where Rick was.
“Hold out your hand!” I called as I started swinging back and forth, getting closer and closer to Rick each time. The branch above me swayed and groaned threateningly, but not nearly as loud as Rick’s tree root.
The root he was clinging to had snapped, then frayed, down to its last miniscule fibers. As I swung towards him on my last swing, almost there, the root broke. Rick seemed to hang there, in midair, for an hour, a millisecond, I wasn’t sure. With my last ounce of strength, I dove towards him, reaching out for his outstretched hand as he started to fall...
“Gotcha!” I shouted triumphantly as I caught Rick by the hand. Laughing (somewhat hysterically), I painfully pulled him up to where he could reach the rope. He then proceeded to climb up to the stable tree branch. I climbed up after him, and when I got close to the top, he reached down and offered me his hand. He pulled me up, and we sat there on the small ledge, where I wrapped my arms around him so he would not fall again. I had the rope, so I had no thoughts for my own safety. We were just grateful to be alive.
After a few minutes of just enjoying life (and the wonderful view), Rick turned to me. “You saved me!” he said, with awe in his voice, “Thank you.”
“I-it was nothing,” I said, faltering as I realized how close he was and how deeply grateful he was. I hadn’t even meant to do it, or thought about doing it, it had just happened.
“But it was something! I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for you,” he said looking into my eyes, “Have I ever told you how wonderful you are?” he asked.
“Um, yeah, I-I'm pretty sure...”
“Miyah!”
We both started and looked up. It was Blaze. “We have a way to get you up!” he shouted, grinning slightly, thinking that he’d interrupted.
“What's that?” I called.
“Kara,” he said simply as a dainty purple cat-like face peeked over the edge of the abyss. With long, silky ears and long, elegant whiskers, she was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen.
“Oh, wow,” I whispered softly to myself, then I shouted up, “Kara, I'm glad you evolved and all, but you still can’t use Psychic or anything helpful like that. You aren’t a high enough level.”
“Oh, really?” she said, sounding amused. Even her voice was different, more of a tinkley sound rather than rough like it was. “You never scanned me into your Pokčdex, Miyah, how would you have any idea what level I am?”
She was right; I never did scan her in. “What level are you then?”
“You'll just have to fly up here and find out!” she said as her eyes started to glow blue. Suddenly, we were both lifted up into the air, as if there was no more gravity in the space around us. Pulling a pocketknife out of my pack, I severed the rope and we drifted freely upwards to come to rest on the patch of clear ground the Pokčmon had found not too far away from the edge of the cliff. As soon as she released us, I pulled out my Pokčdex and scanned her ball into it.
“Twenty-four!” I exclaimed, “How, how...”
“When Pokčmon evolve, they gain ten levels,” she explained.
“But Blaze is only five!”
“Twelve,” coughed Blaze, shooting an odd look at Kara.
“Oh!” I was astonished. I never thought Pokčmon could gain levels so fast.
“I need to go home...” said Rick suddenly. “I almost died back there. Miyah, the trail is due east, you can’t miss it.” He recalled his Pokčmon, standing there awkwardly, shaking like a leaf. “I really want to repay you, but... Well, I’ll do it later. I guess I’ll see you around!”
He turned and started to walk away, but then he stopped. He turned, walked back and threw his arms around me and kissed me on the cheek. “Thanks again for saving me,” he said, winking, “That should go towards paying you back.” And with that, he was gone.
***
Blaze giggled. “Shut it,” I said blushing.
“But it’s so funny,” said Kara, giggling as well.
“Miyah’s got a boyfriend,” they both chanted, squealing as I started chasing them along the path. “When I catch up to you guys, I swear I’ll bash both of your heads together,” I yelled, but then even I started laughing as Blaze tripped over a tree root, skidding along the ground, with the ‘graceful’ espeon crashing full on into his backside.
“HA!” I shouted, tackling them both in one pounce, getting grass stains all down my front, not to mention a mouthful of dirt.
“Is that any way for a young lady to be acting in the Mayor of Brookdale’s back yard?”
The three of us froze, looking to see where the voice had come from.
An old man, perhaps seventy-five years old or so was standing nearby. He wore a dapper grey suit with quite a clashing tie (yellow with red polka dots). Overall, he wasn’t too much taller than I was. Despite his stern tone of voice, he had a smile on his wrinkly face, his eyes crinkled under his thick glasses.
I got up, dusting myself off (spitting out some dirt and grass blades too) before apologizing, “Sorry, sir, I didn’t realized the trail ended. I don’t normally tackle my pokčmon on people’s back lawns.”
“Don’t worry, it happens all the time,” he said reassuringly. “Wait,” he said, realizing his mistake as Blaze, Kara and I started giggling. “I don’t normally have people tackling pokčmon on my back lawn, but people walk right into my backyard all the time.”
“Oh,” I said, still laughing slightly.
“Here, you look like you’ve been traveling for a while. Why don’t you come into my house and freshen up? I don’t normally have visitors, but I love it when I do,” he said, gesturing for us to follow before turning and walking off.
“Sure,” I said without hesitating.
Blaze gave me a stern look. “Seriously, you are way too trusting.”
“He seems nice enough,” I said, following him.
Blaze rolled his eyes before following Kara (who was also quite trusting) and I after the man.
To our surprise, the man led us right into the adjoining house. “Oh,” I exclaimed, surprised, “You’re the mayor!”
“Nice, Miyah,” said Kara sarcastically, waving her long forked tail in amusement.
“Heh,” I said, laughing at my own stupidity.
As soon as we had entered the house, a mouthwatering aroma greeted our noses. “Mmm... What’s that smell?” I asked.
“I bet you’re hungry. It’s mushroom pizza, do you want some?”
“Yes, please!” the three of us chorused at the same time.
***
“So,” asked the mayor, watching us stuff ourselves, (he had already eaten) “What brings you into our neck of the wood?”
“Well,” I said, after a considerable amount of chewing to finish my bite enough to speak, “It was my birthday, and my friend Jaymi brought out her Murkrow and I went berserk and my grandpa told me I had this special power...” I randomly decided to spill my guts to a perfect stranger, (much to Blaze’s dismay) but to his surprise, the Mayor quite understood.
“And you clearly overheard the boy say that the guardian is a fake?” he asked.
“Of course,” I affirmed before starting to stuff my face again.
“You see,” he said, explaining everything, “there are two labs around here, and both work on the same thing; genetics. Ever since I can remember, they have been rivals, racing each other to come up with the better ideas first. I read the article you mentioned; as soon as it came out, people flocked from all over to see if they could be merged with Pokčmon. No one fit the right description until one boy came along. Soon after, both of the labs refused visitors, as they were too delighted with the discovery of the boy to deal with anyone else. To discourage anyone who might try to spy on them, the two labs joined together for the first time in centuries and selected a guardian. The guardian’s job was to keep all travelers off of the path leading to the labs, and to keep the rivals away from each other.”
“So both of the labs got to share the boy?” I asked.
“No,” said the mayor, “The lab known as Lab-S got the boy, the other lab, Lab-that-isn’t-S, were only kept happy because of some top-secret information the boy imparted on them as an ‘I'm sorry for choosing the other lab’ sort-of-thing.”
“What did the ‘S’ stand for?” I asked, smiling slightly at the name of the other lab.
“Scyther, the pokčmon the boy merged with.”
“Oh.” I said, before asking, “What was the ‘top-secret’ information?”
“That there are two other people out there who could definitely qualify to be merged with other pokčmon.”
“That makes sense!” I exclaimed, “My grandfather told me that there were three unrelated embryos that started off with the power. If the powers kept to each line descending from those people, that means I’m one of the other ones!!”
***
This chapter kinda De-Mary-Sueifies Miyah, or at least it's supposed to. She's not the smartest grape in the bunch, just impulsive.
So. Um. Let me know what you think!
Chibi Pika
20th February 2007, 11:43 PM
*Walks into thread, due to lack of plushie.*
This is gonna be a short review cause I can't think of much to say. But then, my reviews aren't ususally very substantial when you consider that it's mostly Silverwing blabbing.
Silverwing;249;: It's not my fault that you say stupid things I have to comment on.
One thing I definately noticed was how much better the cliff scene was. The parts leading up to it helped smooth things over and make it less random.
I also liked the lab explanation and how Miyah's line on the end was changed ever so slightly to clarify that she descended from one of them. (I still love the name "the-lab-that-isn't-S" it's just fun to say. xD
Darn...I can't remember enough about the original to effectively comapre it to the revision...oh well.
*Steals back plushy and flies off.*
~Chibi~;249;;448;
Chareon
25th February 2007, 10:05 PM
Yay!
-claps for review-
That's okay if it's short, I really don't mind.
Actually, I'm debating on putting spelling mistakes in on purpose, so people have reasons to review! xD
ANYWAYS.
One thing I definately noticed was how much better the cliff scene was. The parts leading up to it helped smooth things over and make it less random.
I'm SO glad about that. -wipes forehead- ...I tried so hard to make sure it wasn't...
I also liked the lab explanation and how Miyah's line on the end was changed ever so slightly to clarify that she descended from one of them. (I still love the name "the-lab-that-isn't-S" it's just fun to say. xD
-grins- Yeah, the name's definitely in there for comic relief. So is Scrap. But... -looks around- Oops. SAY NO MORE.
Here is the next chapter, I'm too lazy to wait to post it.
Chapter 4
I woke up the next morning to the sounds of the Tailows chirping and the Pidgeys cooing. Soft morning sunlight streamed in through the window of the spare bedroom the mayor had lent us for the night. I yawned and stretched, lying down, too comfy to get up. With my movement, Kara also awoke. She had been sleeping curled up at the foot of the bed, and now she stretched as well. Standing up, she stretched, daintily and gracefully, fore and aft.
“It’s like suspended reality,” Kara explained, “you remember coming in, then you come out as if no time passed, healed to whatever degree depending on how long you ‘slept’.”
“Oh,” I replied, just as a knock sounded at the bedroom door.
“Come in!” I called.
“Ah, I see you’re all awake,” said the mayor, walking in. “Did you sleep well?”
“Yes, wonderfully,” I answered gratefully as Blaze snorted.
“Great,” he said, smiling. “I'm guessing you'll want to stock up on supplies before you set off for the labs? There’s a great Mart down the street that’s got everything you'll need. I’m just warning you though; it might be a little bit crowded, with it being Sunday and all.”
“Thank you,” I said, getting up out of bed as he smiled and walked away.
“Um,” I looked at him uncomfortably. “I never really thought of that.”
“Well, it makes sense now that Kara evolved and all. She’s Psychic now too. Of course,” he said, looking at Kara, “if you had any objections, then...”
“Blaze,” said Kara, “you know I wouldn’t. It’s you who might!”
“Why would I?” he asked incredulously.
I now realized where Kara was heading with this.
“Well,” said Kara hesitantly, “you were her first pokčmon and I was hoping you wouldn’t feel jealous or left out or anything...”
“I...” Blaze cut himself off and paused for a moment. “I’ll be fine. I know you weren’t thinking of this when you evolved, Kara, and I know that I will be able to continue to be Miyah’s friend and companion no matter what happens.”
After a hearty breakfast (pancakes), the three of us meandered down the road to the Mart. As soon as we walked through the sliding doors, the number of people there stunned us in such a small town.
“The whole village is here, huh?” said Blaze.
“Looks like it,” I said, raising my voice slowly over the hubbub.
“What’s on the list?” asked Kara. “We are getting some of those squishy white thing-a-ma-bobbers, right?”
“You mean the marshmallows? Of course, they’re on there. You’ve been badgering me to get more since we ran out two days ago.”
“Good,” said Kara, a look of rapture in her eyes.
“We aren’t going to last long in the woods on just marshmallow, Kara,” said Blaze, slightly accusingly. “We need things slightly more substantial.”
“Like what?” Kara replied as I grabbed a shopping cart. “Just because you burn the marshmallows into ashes before eating them doesn’t mean they aren’t yummy. I bet you can’t even taste them!”
“We charmanders always like our food well done. You barely even get it warm!”
“Guys, guys, rather than arguing over how to properly roast a marshmallow, let’s go restock on supplies, okay?” I turned and walked off, pushing the cart in front of me. Blaze and Kara shot each other quizzical looks before turning and following suit. After making an exaggerated show of not seeing the marshmallows (over which Kara started to get frantic because she couldn’t reach), I proceeded to grab some staple foods, along with matches, water, evaporated milk, toothpaste, a brush for Kara’s silky fur, and some ointment to keep Blaze’s scales from getting flakey.
“Anything else?” I asked, checking the list. “I think that’s all.”
“No,” said Blaze thoughtfully, “that’s not all. You ought to get yourself something special. You already got Kara and me something, so why not treat yourself?” He gestured to the brush and ointment.
“Ooh, yes, great idea Blaze! Get something cool, Miyah!” Kara bounced up and down in quite an unseemly way for an Espeon.
“Hmm, okay, I guess I could do that, if you guys insist. But what should I get?” I looked around thoughtfully. My eyes came to rest on a display of reading material.
“Hey, you know what? I had forgotten, the next book in the series I like just came out...” I wandered over and started looking through the books.
“What is it called?” asked Kara curiously.
“Umm, let’s see, I thing the last one was number twenty or so, called The Prophesy... no wait, the last one was called The Revival...”
“Yes, but what is this one called?” Kara asked impatiently.
I strained my memory, trying to remember. Finally, it came to me. “The Guardian!”
Suddenly, the silence was absolute. The ruckus of everyone doing their Sunday shopping of half of a second before was gone. All of the shoppers had stopped in their tracks, looking at me with a sudden fear in their eyes.
“What did you say?” asked the clerk in a hushed voice.
“Er, The Guardian? Do you have that book? It’s supposed to be quite go...”
“Shh!” said a man standing near me, while a woman nearby covered her young daughter’s ears. Realization suddenly dawned on me.
“What’s wrong with me saying guardian?”
“DON’T say it!” said the man who had shushed me previously, his eyes widening in fear. “They say he has ears everywhere, the sound of that word draws his attention, spies, spies, he’ll kill our young ones!!” The man’s eyes now had a maniacal glint to them. “Leave, leave our town! Don’t come back! Maybe he’ll just take you. Maybe he’ll spare us over this sacrifice! SACRIFICE!” He screamed, spittle flying out of his mouth as he pointed a shaking finger at me.
I suddenly began to be afraid as I noticed that most of the other villagers looked like they agreed with him, the same maniacal look in their eyes. “Can’t I just finish buying my stuff first?” I asked warily. “I’m just about to leave anyways...”
I started as I heard the clerk’s voice in my ear, “Just take the stuff, leave. This isn’t the first time this has happened. Leave the cart at the second turn in the path in the woods, I’ll get it later.”
He had scarcely finished speaking when Kara, Blaze and I were out the door, the shopping cart making a loud, clattering noise over the cobblestones as we sprinted away like mad creatures, out of the fear-tainted town.
Chibi Pika
5th March 2007, 7:52 PM
Short chappie. Yet definately one of the most hilarious of them. xD
“Umm, let’s see, I think the last one was number twenty or so, called The Prophesy... no wait, the last one was called The Revival...”
Typo. Only error I caught.
Actually, I'm debating on putting spelling mistakes in on purpose, so people have reasons to review! xD
XDDDDDD That is the most hilarious ploy to get readers i have ever heard.
“Guys, guys, rather than arguing over how to properly roast a marshmallow, let’s go restock on supplies, okay?” I turned and walked off, pushing the cart in front of me. Blaze and Kara shot each other quizzical looks before turning and following suit. After making an exaggerated show of not seeing the marshmallows (over which Kara started to get frantic because she couldn’t reach), I proceeded to grab some staple foods, along with matches, water, evaporated milk, toothpaste, a brush for Kara’s silky fur, and some ointment to keep Blaze’s scales from getting flakey.
xDDD Was the "exaggerated show" line in the original? Cause if so, then I can't remember it, while it definitely caught my attention this time. xP I can see it now...
Miyah: "Where oh where are the marshmallows? I sure wish I could find them, but if not, then I guess we can go without them."
I strained my memory, trying to remember. Finally, it came to me. “The Guardian!”
Suddenly, the silence was absolute. The ruckus of everyone doing their Sunday shopping of half of a second before was gone. All of the shoppers had stopped in their tracks, looking at me with a sudden fear in their eyes.
“What did you say?” asked the clerk in a hushed voice.
“Er, The Guardian? Do you have that book? It’s supposed to be quite go...”
You know I always loved that part. xD Especially the confused/naive sort of feel to Miyah's last line.
“DON’T say it!” said the man who had shushed me previously, his eyes widening in fear. “They say he has ears everywhere, the sound of that word draws his attention, spies, spies, he’ll kill our young ones!!” The man’s eyes now had a maniacal glint to them. “Leave, leave our town! Don’t come back! Maybe he’ll just take you. Maybe he’ll spare us over this sacrifice! SACRIFICE!” He screamed, spittle flying out of his mouth as he pointed a shaking finger at me.
He sounds like some sort of ancient tribal spirit-banisher, or something. XDDD
And augh!!! I wondered on Friday if I had forgotten if it was Wednesday, but then I couldn't get on over the weekend, so then I had to check today, but now it is Monday, you see??? *_*
Zion;157;: What in the hell are you babbling about Chibi? >>;
Argh! *dies*
ZOMG HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!111111111one 8P
*Sneaks in really quick and hides life-size plushies of Blaze, Kara, Scrap, and Cael in various parts of your room.*
And so what has this review proved?
Silverwing;249;: That you laugh too easily?
Zion;157;: That you're a moron.
NO. >>
I love Chapter 4. =3
~Chibi~;249;;448;
Chareon
1st August 2007, 7:01 PM
HOKAY.
So. In case anyone was wondering, (doubtful, at best) I have not posted on here for quite some time due to several reasons, the first and foremost of which being the most annoying. Serebii is just not working for me. The site's lag is so bad that it takes 10 minutes for the page to load, and that's only when it works. So I'm taking advantage of this lil moment of fastness to post and say that as soon as my computer is fixed, (hopefully the hard drive is okay) the one with PoF on it, I will be posting like mad, reviews or no.
MMKAYTHANKSBYE.
;196; ~Chareon
SapphireRose
2nd August 2007, 10:11 PM
Don't worry, Serebii isn't working for me either...*grumbles because Serebii forums are favorite site on computer*
As for your fic, one word: "WOW!" This is the kind of fic I always wanted to write, but I just can't seem to make it work. You have just written the best fic I have read here so far. I can't get over how well put together it is, how descriptive it is, and how, how...*moseys over to thesaurus looking for proper adjective*
Literally no mistakes, no grammar "issues", perfect plot...*rambles on and on about how more fics need this kind of quality*
Anyway, you got me hooked and now I must continue reading. Nice title, BTW...
Can I be on the PM list, please?
Keep on truckin'!
myu_2
12th August 2007, 4:20 PM
sweet fic. you know my charizard's name is blaze =D
*givescookie*
Chareon
21st September 2007, 5:54 AM
-stumbles into thread like a weary desert nomad-
-eats cookie-
HOKAY. In case anyone was really wanting to hear my excuses, though to me they are mere reasons and to you they are b.s., here goes:
I just got PoF off of my hard drive, finally, thanks to a wonderful physics teacher who is working on fixing it completely, though with not much success yet.
Secondly, the obvious lack of a working computer has left me without the tools to keep writing. Fortunately, I'm far enough ahead of myself on my lovely Price of Freedom that there's no need to panic. ^.^
Rating: Five stars, as usual. Ahem. No, really, it's about PG 13 because it has a very yummy battle and a bit of hatred. You'll love it. ^.^
Chapter 5
Finally, we slowed down, panting hoarsely after our run.
“Any idea where the second turn in the path was, guys?” I asked, looking around. We were still on a trail, a dirt trail, a little like the one we had taken to get into Brookdale, although this one was much less trodden upon. The noon sun spilled through the canopy, creating waterfalls of sweltering heat.
“I dunno,” said Blaze. “I forgot to count them. If I had to make a guess though, I’d say we passed it already.”
Kara hopped up into the shopping cart, landing in the part where you put little kids, and began grooming her face. “Yuck, I'm all sweaty! Don’t worry guys, we haven’t gotten there yet.”
Blaze gave her a curious look. “And how exactly do you know that?”
“I’m psychic. Of course I know.” Kara looked primly down at Blaze from her perch in the cart’s basket.
“Well, it doesn’t really matter how she knows, Blaze, as long as she does. Here, let’s pack away all of this stuff.” The three of us stuffed all of the cans and things into my backpack. “Uff!” I said as I hoisted it up onto my back. “This is heavy!”
“Sorry I can’t help, Miyah,” said Blaze.
“It’s okay, it’s not that bad. About half as light as my school backpack was!” I joked. “And if you really want to help, the two of you can push the cart!”
We continued walking, me, trudging along with the heavy backpack, Kara and Blaze both pushing the cart by the bar at the very bottom. The clattering of the cart broke the stillness of the forest. I looked over at it, worried.
“I bet every creature in the entire forest can hear that. I hope we can drop it off soon.”
“You’re worried about the guardian, huh?” asked Blaze perceptively.
“A little,” I admitted. “Even though Rick said the guardian was a fake, what if we can't get past him? Then what will we do?”
We dropped off the cart in the woods as the path made a second turn, altering its course more westward. We followed the trail, glad to be rid of the noisy cart, but slightly unnerved at the stillness of this part of the forest. The sounds of our feet made crunching noises on the dead leaves that littered the ground, while there was an occasional ping of Blaze’s claws striking a rock. The canopy above us became thicker as we continued northwest, with only occasional patches of sunlight to be seen, pillars of light holding up the leafy canopy.
Finally, we came to the edge of a clearing in the trees, a lake of sunlight amidst the shade.
“Can we eat, please? Lunchtime was three hours ago!” I could hear Kara’s stomach gurgle, reminding me that I was hungry too.
“Sorry, Kara, since you weren’t complaining as usual, I figured you weren’t hungry yet. Sure, we can eat.” I smiled as the irrepressible Kara bounded into the center of the clearing, stopping near a nice sized rock.
“Here, we can use this as a table!”
“Cool!” I walked into the clearing, with Blaze following close behind me. When I reached the rock, I set down the pack with a groan, rolling my shoulders to relieve the ache. Almost as an echo of my groan, a hugely magnified growl shook the clearing around us, shattering the tranquility of the dell.
“WHO DARES AWAKEN THE WRATH OF THE GUARDIAN!?” The sound seemed to coming from all around us.
My eyes widened with fright, and I could feel my pulse quickening. Out of the corner of my eye, I could see Kara shaking freeze. Gathering up my courage, I shouted, “Uh, Mr. Guardian sir, we just um, wanted to get to the labs. Is that all right? Please?”
“NONE SHALL PASS!”
As the next rumbling proclamation occurred, I noticed that Blaze was no longer behind me. Looking around, I saw him creeping out of the clearing towards a large oak tree. When he saw my puzzled glance, he held a clawed finger to his lips and winked. My fear dissipated immediately. Understanding that he wanted me to distract the guardian, I turned back and shouted, “Well, that’s just great, Mr. Guardian dude, because to answer your first question, my name is None. May I go now?”
As I watched, Blaze reached the tree and started scaling it. As he reached the lowest branch, he reached into the leafy foliage and pulled out a small black box with cords hanging out of it. As the guardian shouted again, I realized it was a speaker!
“NO!!” Blaze winced and rubbed his ear, or the place where his ear should be, considering his apparent lack of appendages. Frantically, I gestured to him that he should pull the cord out. He shook his head and hopped out of the tree, still holding the speaker. Then, he started following the cord, signaling me to follow. With Kara following behind me, I crept after him, out of the clearing and towards a thicket of tall bushes. Blaze grinned at me, exposing his small pointed canines. I mimed us jumping into the clearing and started counting down on my fingers: three, two... one! We leapt into the thicket, shouting, only to stop in surprise at whom we saw there.
“How... what... why...?” I stuttered, shocked. Blaze and Kara looked as shocked as I felt.
Looking slightly ridiculous sitting in a swivel chair at a desk with a computer and stereo equipment on it in the middle of a forest was the Mayor. He cursed loudly when he saw us, leaping up from his chair, sending it rolling to the edge of the concrete slab that the small sound studio was sitting on.
“You’re the guardian?” I asked incredulously.
“Did you listen to anything I told you? I’m a fake! A fake! The point of all of this scam is to keep people away from the labs!”
“Well, you know why we want to go there, and I'm sure we’d be welcomed at the labs. Aren’t I exactly what they’ve been looking for this whole time?” I queried.
“Well, you see, there’s a problem. Lab-that-isn’t-S wants you, but Lab-S doesn’t want Lab-that-isn’t-S to have you. I just so happen to get paid more by Lab-S, a little bonus if I can keep people like you away from Lab-that-isn’t-S... So you see, I just can’t let you pass.” The light of greed danced in his eyes, so different from what I remembered of him before.
“And how’s that? And old geezer like you couldn’t stop all three of us!” Blaze clenched his paw into a fist in from of him, his threatening pose conveying his meaning perfectly, even if the Mayor couldn't understand.
Surprisingly enough, he could. “I think it’s more like three on three!” He reached down and opened a drawer to his desk, and as he did, I could hear a rolling sound. He reached in and pulled out two Pokčballs, shouting, “Go, Bayleef, Houndoom!”
In twin flashes of light, a green, leafy dinosaur popped out, the evolved form of a chikorita, the main difference being size; and a large, dog-like Pokčmon. It was black, with a tan muzzle and belly flattering its pelt. The most shocking part of its form was the twin horns sprouting from the top of his head, in place of its ears. Matching off-white bands striped its back, like ribs. It also had a necklace type bone coming around the back of its neck, meeting in the center of its chest with a skull, which complimented the double bone bracelets on each of its four paws.
I felt a familiar rage in my stomach, like when I had first seen murkrow, I closed my eyes, hoping not to go berserk, but surprisingly, nothing happened. I remembered that Grandpa had said it only happened if the pokčmon’s level was lower than mine was, so I inferred it was a rather high-leveled pokčmon.
The houndoom looked around, slowly acquiring a morose look as it took in its surroundings, putting its spaded tail between its legs as it saw the Mayor, whimpering. “Shut up, pathetic thing!” snapped the Mayor, kicking out at it harshly.
It leaped back, yelping, barely avoiding the tip of his boot. The bayleef looked at him scornfully, saying, “I agree!” in a voice I recognized with a jolt, though it was deeper than I remembered.
“Clover!? It’s you! Where’s Rick?” Kara looked up at me, shocked, before turning to scrutinize the bayleef, looking more and more surprised when she began to recognize her.
“He returned me to my real owner, thankfully. Although, he was an unpleasant surprise when I returned.” She nodded her leaf topped head towards the houndoom.
“Oh, so that’s who you guys were talking about that one day! The Mayor is your owner?”
“You can understand me? You know Pokčspeech?” Clover looked scandalized. She cursed. “You heard all that about the guardian? And that’s why you’re here, to see if it’s true?”
“Not exactly, Clover,” said the Mayor, “but I’m sure I’ll have plenty of time to explain after we kick their butts! Houndoom, use Shadow ball on that espeon!”
I belatedly remembered that espeons were at huge disadvantages to dark type houndooms. Kara obviously had known that from the start, for she immediately looked to me for instructions. “Um, Kara, use Reflect, Blaze, get behind it too.”
The houndoom meanwhile rose its muzzle to the sky, letting loose an ear-splitting howl as an orb of darkness formed over his snout. His howl trailed off, and he brought the sphere down, aimed for Kara and spat it towards her.
The pulsating black globe floated towards her like a dandelion seed while she concentrated her powers and created an invisible glass-like wall about four feet in front of her.
Blaze meanwhile hadn’t gotten behind the shield. He looked at me, panicked. Quickly he ran towards Kara. The shadow ball had just reached the shield and rather than being deflected as I thought it would, it floated right through. “Kara, dodge it!”
Kara stepped a few feet to the side as if to let it float past, but it altered course and continued drifting towards her. By now, I had panicked as well, completely out of my realm. Clover was lying on the ground nearby, rolling around and laughing fit to burst at our attempts.
The ball was about to hit Kara when Blaze jumped in front of her, his back to Houndoom and pushed her away, taking the attack in the back for her. I watched him convulse, horror registering on Kara’s face as she realized he was taking this for her. “Blaze! NO!” I yelled, distraught. He shrieked in pain as the darkness ate away at him.
Suddenly though, a bright light seemed to radiate from within him, causing the blackness to shrivel away into wisps of smoke.
“Wha...?” Then I realized what was happening as his form, now completely engulfed in light, grew larger. The light faded, revealing my new charmeleon.
Now he was about three feet high, with bigger claws and teeth than he used to have. His large expressive charmander eyes had been replaced with smaller and more angular ones, giving him a perpetually angry look. He also had a new horn sprouting on the back of his head, the same burnt orange color as the rest of him.
“Oh,” I said in wonder, as he looked at me and said, “Now I can carry the backpack!” His eyes radiated pride before he closed them and fell over in a faint. “Blaze, return.” His new charmeleon body dematerialized as I wondered what to do. Kara wasn’t going to last long with the houndoom there, and my only hope had just blacked out.
Suddenly, the bushes to my left rustled and a small teal and cream colored figure bounded out in front of me and started speaking to me, so fast I couldn’t understand it. “Wait, wait, speak more slowly please! I can’t understand you!” I said, quite loudly to make myself heard over its jabbering.
“Oh, sorry sorry didn’t mean it just wanted to fight for you gotta get that houndoom. Ooh, gotta get’im gotta git’im he killed my little brother he did, killed him dead dead as a doornail, didn’t even think twice oh no please please lemme fight?” This was still delivered at a blistering speed, but it was at least understandable. The little quilava looked up at me, his burgundy eyes begging me as he clasped his ferrety paws in front of him.
I looked to Kara, and she nodded vigorously, realizing we desperately needed the help. I turned back to the quilava. “If you want to, go right ahead!”
The quilava squealed in happiness, jabbering a bunch of what I guessed were ‘thank you’s’ as he bounded out onto the battlefield, loathing in his eyes as he looked at the houndoom. He stomped his foot and fire suddenly flared up like quills on top of his head and on his rump.
“Er, Kara, use Psychic on Clover, Quilava, use, um...” I realized I didn’t know any of his moves but I could only hope he had what I read he should have. “Use Dig on Houndoom!”
Kara’s eyes glowed blue as Quilava jumped up and dove into the earth as if it were water. The bayleef, who had probably broken a rib from laughing so hard earlier, was lifted into the air, the spectrum around her going blue. She thrashed about, yelling. Meanwhile, Houndoom was looking uneasy, looking at the ground to see where Quilava had went.
Quilava popped up out of the ground and up into the air. “Flamethrower!” I called, as Quilava heard and let loose a stream of fire from his mouth, which engulfed the houndoom from behind. He yelped as the flames washed over him in waves of burning pain. The acrid stench of burnt fur reached my nose as Quilava dove back underground. “Keep doing that, Quilava!” I called as I redirected my attention to Kara and Clover.
Kara was bashing the Bayleef against a tree with Psychic while doing an odd tap dace to avoid the razor sharp leaves Clover was hurling at her from her head-leaf at high speeds. “Bash her against the ground too!” I encouraged. I looked at Kara, and realized that her eyes were blazing with something more than just the blue that accompanies a Psychic attack. Loathing was etched onto her features, contorted into a snarl of hatred, directed at Clover. I briefly wondered why before I realized that not all was going according to plan in Quilava’s half of the battle.
Instead of continuing to wear down at Houndoom as I had directed, Quilava had jumped out of the ground right in front of Houndoom and giving him a piece of his mind. He was speaking too fast for me to understand, but Houndoom obviously did, by the look of horror on his face. He looked like he was on the verge of apologizing when the Mayor shouted, “Use Flamethrower!” With a look of the purest regret, he took a deep breath and (“Quilava, you too!” I shouted) blasted a torrent of flames towards Quilava who responded with his own version. The twin streams of flame met between them, spewing out sideways as they connected in the middle. Kara foresaw this, and, dropping the long since unconscious Clover, set up another Reflect.
Quilava and Houndoom continued to fight it out, the place where the two flamethrowers met fluctuating back and forth, as one or the other renewed their efforts. “You can do it Quilava!” I cried, willing him to push himself just a little bit harder...
The flames coming from Quilava’s mouth suddenly widened and shot towards Houndoom’s now wimpy looking Flamethrower, pushing it back, slowly at first, then faster and faster until it engulfed Houndoom, throwing him backwards, end over end where he smacked into a tree and the flames cut around either side before slowly reducing in strength. Houndoom slowly slid down the tree, flopping limply on the ground at his master’s feet.
“Stupid dog! Stupid, stupid thing, and to think I spent so much time training you! Take that, and that!” The Mayor kicked the already half dead Houndoom, viciously, over and over again. “Worthless fool!” he half screamed, spittle flying from his mouth in his rage.
“Stop, stop it, please, it’s not his fault!” I cried, but the mayor kept on kicking. I snapped. I ran over to them, pushing to old man with all the strength I had, causing him to fall back and crack his head painfully on the tree. I knelt down and wrapped my arms around the houndoom, comforting it. “Oh, poor baby, my poor baby, are you okay?” I cradled his head on my lap and glared up at the Mayor accusingly. He took the Pokčball out of his pocket, throwing it on the ground and stomping on it furiously, breaking it.
“Worthless scum!” he spat before recalling the half savaged Bayleef and storming off in the direction of Brookdale.
I gathered up the pokčmon, all of them fainted except for Kara, and healed them all. Blaze’s damage was immaterial, but it still needed a potion to fix it, Quilava was just exhausted, and Kara’s feet were cut up. Houndoom took two potions and some salve made for burns to fix, but he turned out okay, except for being mentally scarred from being beaten. At first, Quilava wouldn’t even sit next to Houndoom, but then, after he apologized, Quilava and he eventually fell into a deep discussion about the pros and cons of being fire type. Kara’s bond with Blaze seemed to have strengthened as well, I thought, they rarely left each other’s sides while I was setting up camp for the night. I filled in Quilava and Houndoom about our adventures so far. It was unanimous that we should rest up before Kara, Blaze and I set off for the lab the next day.
“Hey Kara! I’ve got marshmallows!” I called as I got the fire going. “Kara?”
“Huh? Oh, coming!” Kara bounded up, followed by the rest of them. I handed them all sticks that I had previously cleaned and put marshmallows on, except Houndoom and Kara, for whom I put them into their mouths to wield.
Blaze and Kara rediscovered their squabble over how to cook the marshmallows and were arguing happily, but Houndoom and Quilava were both just sitting morosely, gazing into the fire, their marshmallows untouched. “What’s wrong, Quilava, Houndoom?”
“Please call me Scrap,” said Quilava, looking up.
“Please call me anything but Houndoom!” said Houndoom pleadingly. “That’s what the... he called me. Anything else will do, just not that.”
“Hmm...” I thought for a second. “I'll call you Cael.” I had remembered my Latin lessons. I had thought of calling him Umbra, or shadow, but people would just think I was talking about an Umbreon, so I decided on just the opposite, heaven. Heaven was caelum in Latin, so Cael seemed perfect.
“Good enough for me!” he grinned, but his grin soon faded, and he continued to look morose, as did Scrap. Scrap threw him a look, so he stood up on his four midnight black paws, his bone bracelets glinting in the firelight. He looked up at me hesitantly. “Do, do you think...” he trailed off, looking to Scrap for assistance.
“We were wondering if we could um yeah uh well go with you tomorrow maybe you know to the uh the labs,” Scrap spilled out rapidly.
“It sounds like fun!” Cael interjected. “And then you could be my new master! I'm sure you would never kick me or...”
Everyone grinned broadly as I pulled out two pokčballs. “This’ll just take a second...” I said, touching the Pokčball gently to Cael’s nose. As he dematerialized, the ball held still for three counts before the light glowed on the front. I took my Pokčdex out of my pocket and scanned him in. Quickly I read through his details while releasing him from the ball. He was level twenty, and his moves were Shadow ball, Flamethrower, Bite and Confuse Ray. As I looked into the information, I realized my mistake in the battle earlier. Shadow ball was a ghost type move, not a dark move, as I had guessed. That’s why the reflect didn’t do anything.
I picked out another Pokčball and touched it to Scrap’s nose in the same fashion. Surprisingly, the ball rocked once while I waited, before stopping and sitting still for two more counts. I scanned him into my Pokčdex as well, his level being twenty-one and his moves being Flamethrower, Dig, Smokescreen, and Sunny Day. I let him back out.
“What happened? You struggled.” I asked, curious.
“Sorry I’ve just never been in a thingy... uh Pokčball before yeah. I didn’t mean to I just sorta freaked out sorry.”
“Its fine, it doesn’t matter.” I ‘picked’ up the marshmallow bag and floated it slowly past Kara’s nose. She swatted at it with her paw, just like a kitten. When she realized she missed, she pounced on it, lashing her tail and glaring around as though daring anyone to take it from her. I took up the challenge. By the time I had gotten the bag from her, everyone was laughing, including me. I counted the marshmallows. Five! Perfect!
I unrolled one of the sleeping bags, spreading it out so the pokčmon could sleep out of their pokčballs, and clambered into my own. I called out goodnight and received four replies. I smiled to myself in the partial light of the half-dead fire. Soon, I would be at the labs. Soon I would know if I was truly special to the world. Soon. All was good.
-----
So. That was it. Like? No like?
I'm not sure personally if I like this chapter. I think I don't. It has comedy, a battle, new charries, and a plot twist, but... I think I like the next few better. Oh yesh.
Review!
-goes to PM people a day late-
;196; ~Chareon
Chibi Pika
21st September 2007, 9:35 PM
>>
...
Wanna hear -my- story of the day?
Alright, very late last night, while everyone else in Gaming club was either playing Magic or stabbing their brain with 4-way modified Chess, I decided to come hear, and actually yelled "Yay, Chareon!" when I saw PoF at the top of my subscriptions list.
So I came here, typed up a review, yada yada.
And *somehow* (God knows how <<) I managed to hit Ctrl+W. Try it for yourself...with a blank window preferably. It took me a few seconds to register what had happened. So now, thoroughly annoyed, because retyping things is my worst pet peeve in the world, I started out my new review with "I. HATE. CTRL. W."
And then my computer froze. Froze, froze. It died so bad I had to get a new one on loan while they fix it. *_*
…Who the hell came up with ctrl+w anyway?!?! Isn’t Alt+F4 bad enough? T_T
To discourage anyone who might try to spy on them, the two labs joined together for the first time in centuries and selected a guardian.
I just remembered this. Centuries? The Labs have been around that long? The study of genetics had been around that long?
Understanding that he wanted me to distract the guardian, I turned back and shouted, “Well, that’s just great, Mr. Guardian dude, because to answer your first question, my name is None. May I go now?”
...
...You know what I'm gonna say.
Yeah, you know.
Best. Fic. Quote. Ever
At first, Quilava wouldn’t even sit next to Houndoom, but then, after he apologized, Quilava and he eventually fell into a deep discussion about the pros and cons of being fire type.
That's one of those parts that I think would have worked better if shown instead of put in the transition paragraph.
“Good enough for me!” he grinned, but his grin soon faded, and he continued to look morose, as did Scrap. Scrap threw him a look, so he stood up on his four midnight black paws, his bone bracelets glinting in the firelight. He looked up at me hesitantly.
On the other hand, I quite liked this part. Very pretty.
Oh yeah, and...I like Clover. x3 I don't know why, but just...how she is in this chapter, combined with reading through Chapter 3 again...I just like Clover. =P
Blaze meanwhile hadn’t gotten behind the shield. He looked at me, panicked. Quickly he ran towards Kara. The shadow ball had just reached the shield and rather than being deflected as I thought it would, it floated right through.
Okay...Miyah thought it was a Dark attack--makes sense. But either way, why'd she have Kara use Reflect? An attack like that would surely be Special, requiring Light Screen. Although...in 3rd gen, Shadow Ball actually was physical, in which case Reflect would have worked (although 3rd gen special/physical was illogical).
“Not exactly, Clover,” said the Mayor, “but I’m sure I’ll have plenty of time to explain after we kick their butts! Houndoom, use Shadow ball on that espeon!”
Yeah...there's something about a man in his seventies saying "kick their butts" that just sounds...out of place.
“Oh, sorry sorry didn’t mean it just wanted to fight for you gotta get that houndoom. Ooh, gotta get’im gotta git’im he killed my little brother he did, killed him dead dead as a doornail, didn’t even think twice oh no please please lemme fight?”
Would a wild Pokemon know the expression "dead as a doornail"?
Come to think of it...where did that expression come from, anyway? :p
Btw, over-rating. I dun think it was PG-13. Would take a fair bit more violence, and Cael's burns weren't particularly grotesque.
So yeah...this is the part where I don't remember what happens next. Did I even read what happens next ever? Ah well, keep it up.
~Chibi~;249;;448;
Chareon
22nd September 2007, 4:08 AM
I decided to come hear, and actually yelled "Yay, Chareon!" when I saw PoF at the top of my subscriptions list.
I bet you got some pretty strange looks. xP
Fortunately, I was secluded in my room when I squealed, "FWEE!" when I saw that it was you posting!
-dances in happy circles-
I just remembered this. Centuries? The Labs have been around that long? The study of genetics had been around that long?
Hmm. Well, I guess in my brain, the existence of Miyah's kind and labs studying them both being the same length of time just kinda clicked in my brain, but you have a point. I really need to go back and word this chapter a bit more eloquently, I was just so excited to have PoF back al safe and sound that I just HAD to go and post the next chapter. ^.^ I'll look into it.
Oh yeah, and...I like Clover. x3 I don't know why, but just...how she is in this chapter, combined with reading through Chapter 3 again...I just like Clover. =P
Oddly enough, I like Clover, too. I think I put just a bit of my own 'bad side' in her on accident. O.o she's made to be Kara's foil, too, so maybe it's the contrast?
Come to think of it...where did that expression come from, anyway?
We think so alike, it's creepy sometimes.
I was totally debating on changing that as I skimmed the chappie over before posting. But I was like, "nah. too lazy."
Next time I'll listen to the little Chibi Pika in my head.
xDDD
Oh, and bytheway, I shall be posting the next chapter quite soon, within a week or two, depending on reviews and whatnot.
Thanks for reading, dear cousin!
;196; ~Chareon
duncan
26th September 2007, 10:43 PM
Finally I get to post! I've spend the last two days trying to read this all, but every thirty seconds or so I got cut off... Anyway, it's working now.
Okay, my first impression is that this is pretty good. But I can also tell that it's a rewrite (the reason being that I've done way too many rewrites myself). I didn't read the first one, but I can tell you did a good job. I have nitpicks, but those'll come later. First, the good.
The plot is pretty good so far, but we're not far enough in for me to say much about that just yet.
The description is well above average. You do a good job building the world up and explaining who does what, etc. But always remember, there's room for improvement (though probably not much in a rewrite).
Miyah is a fairly interesting character so far. It's always hard to comment on someone's personality, espescially with it being fairly early and all, but Miyah seems to be a good base to write a story with.
Now to my quotes:
In the next three flashes of light, a cute pink cat, a seagull, and a crow popped out, all at the same time. I looked at the skitty and wingull with interest, but when I turned to the murkrow...
I had a strange feeling... almost like hatred combined with fear. It was almost like I had hidden instincts which decided to come forth at that moment. The middle of my forehead started to ache, making me dizzy. I closed my eyes, and when I opened them, a shroud of blue mist blinded me, and I knew no more, except for an intense fury, and a strange burning sensation in my eyes...
The description in this paragraph was excellent. You really get a good sense of what she was feeling. Good job!
“Oh, I see, so I’m one of the people who have pokčmon powers? That means...” I tried to think around my aching head. “... so do you! What element did you get?”
This part annoyed me. I really can't see how she would just accept that she had powers that quickly, and not be worried at all about it. That's probably my main gripe in this whole fic.
Out of one of the pokčballs came a bulbasaur, a blue frog with a bulb on its back.
One of the more interesting descrptions of Bulbasaur I've seen.
Anyway, overall I like this. Rewrites are difficult to do, and kudos to you for making this so interesting and fun to read. I'm defintely interested, and would be grateful if you'd add me to your PM List.
Chareon
4th October 2007, 2:51 AM
CHAPTER 666666666666
Pg 13.
On the fifth day of our journey north, we came to a rocky outcropping near the edge of the woods.
“This is a perfect place to set up camp for a few days,” commented Blaze as he peered around the clearing.
I immediately agreed. There were probably plenty of caves in the rocks, and if not, a towering pine tree could provide some sort of shelter from the elements.
I set down my backpack and was about to open it up when a growl issued from the top of the jumble of rocks. The earth shook at the sound, the very ground quaking in fear. Looking up, I was startled to see the silhouette of a huge pokčmon that was looking down at us, the fires of the sun shining from behind it.
“Blaze...” I started to become wary, recognizing the pokčmon, recognizing the danger.
“I know,” he answered, knowing it too. We had stumbled upon a legend, and nothing good was going to come of the encounter.
Entei leapt down from the rock, landing with a jolt that made the ground shudder once more. “What is a filthy human doing on this sacred land?” He demanded, his voice roaring like the fires in a blacksmith’s forge.
I was about to stammer a response when he interrupted. “No matter, you won't be here long.”
Blaze recognized the threat in his words, as did I. He jumped out in front of me, his battle cry issuing forth from his mouth, as at the same time, I pulled out my other three pokčballs.
Blaze didn’t wait for my instructions. He shot a stream of fire at the huge legendary, trying to catch it off guard.
But to no avail. Entei watched the seemingly puny flamethrower come towards him, until the last instant, when he leapt straight up into the air, avoiding it and coming down right in front of Blaze.
Blaze bravely lashed out with his claws, but one blows from one of Entei’s hefty paws and he was out cold.
I knew I didn’t have the time to recall him, so I sent out Kara.
“Reflect!” I shouted, and she complied, setting up a psychic shield that I figured would hold him off for a minute.
I quickly recalled Blaze, then grabbed Cael’s ball. But I hesitated. Entei was watching me, completely ignoring Kara and her reflective shield.
I knew at that moment that sending out two of my pokčmon would be cheating, and that no matter how bad the circumstances, I couldn't do it. I just couldn't bring myself to do it.
Kara shot me an understanding glance before turning back to more pressing matters. “Kara, use psychic!” I cried, hoping to hold off Entei for a while.
I should have known better. Kara’s eyes glowed blue, and a halo of blue light glowed around Entei as well. He snorted in disgust, and with one shake of his head, broke off the attack completely.
I stared, astounded. I was straining to think of another attack when Entei drew in a deep breath.
“Brace yourself, Kara!” I shouted, barely in time. Kara heard me and concentrated hard, the red gem on her forehead flashing as she strengthened her shield.
Entei spat out a ball of molten flames at Kara, a veritable meteor.
Kara’s shield shattered at the impact, barely slowing the progress of the fiery blast at all. She tried to jump out of the way, but she wasn’t fast enough.
I quickly recalled her, before the fire had even died out. “Go, Cael!”
Now I was afraid. I knew that if Entei won, he would not hesitate to kill me. I could tell my pokčmon knew that too, for they fought twice as hard as I had ever seen them do.
“Shadow ball, flamethrower,” I cried, hoping Cael would understand. He did. He gave a howl, towards the not yet visible moon, his howl going silent as a black pulsating orb formed over his muzzle. He had barely spat it out at Entei when he unleashed a huge stream of fire, pushing the shadow ball at Entei as fast as it could go.
Entei jumped out of the way, only just in time. I could smell the scent of scorched fur from where the flames had scorched his side, could see him quiver slightly with the effects of the ball of darkness.
“Do it again, Cael!”
But Entei was not to be outdone. He let loose a huge flamethrower, the largest I had ever seen, straight at Cael.
I recalled Cael and sent out Scrap, my last chance of survival.
He shot out of his ball, chattering wildly. “Dig!” He dove underground at my command as if the ground was made of water.
But Entei simply stomped on the ground, causing an earthquake. I had seen smaller actual earthquakes. I was thrown to the ground, holding onto a weed for dear life until the shaking stopped.
I immediately knew that the underground Scrap wouldn’t have stood a chance. I got to my feet as I recalled him, facing Entei, prepared.
I thought I was to die, but Blaze had a say in the matter. In a flash of light, he popped out of his ball, looking all the worse for wear.
“I won't let you kill her!” he growled at Entei, his growl seeming quite small in comparison to Entei’s. But he tried.
“Foolish charmeleon, why do you bother defending this weak creature? I’m sure you have better things to do. Why don’t you just give up? If you let me kill this insolent human, I swear upon my honor that I’ll let you live.”
“Never!” growled Blaze. “What type of pokčmon would I be, what type of friend would I be if I turned on Miyah like that?! She would do the exact same thing that I'm doing for her if she could. I would give my life for her!”
“So be it!” roared Entei, stung by his refusal. But as Entei sucked in a breath to shoot Blaze with a fire blast, Blaze quickly spewed out a flamethrower, right into Entei’s mouth.
Entei choked, then started coughing. As he did, Blaze dashed up, sinking his claws into his side and hoisting himself onto Entei’s back.
By this time, Entei had recovered sufficiently to roar his hatred to the skies, rearing back onto his hind legs like a horse, trying to shake off Blaze.
But Blaze held on grimly, the light of determination sparkling in his eyes. He sunk his claws deeper into Entei’s back, blowing a flamethrower at the back of Entei’s head.
Entei sprinted around the clearing as fast as he could, the ground trembling as he did so, still trying to get Blaze off his back. Blaze continued to gouge at his back and scald his neck. Finally, exhausted, Entei stopped running, and stood panting in the middle of the clearing. Once more, he reared up on his hind legs, but he didn’t stop at vertical this time. He toppled over backwards to land with a sickening crunch on Blaze.
I recalled him again, shocked. I faced Entei once more, but this time, I wasn’t ready to die. I would go down fighting, just like my loyal pokčmon. I quickly reached down and picked up a handful of dirt in one had, a rock in the other.
As Entei advanced, I threw the dirt in his face, momentarily blinding him. Then I threw the rock, as hard as I could at him.
It bounced off of his yellow crown with a crack to land with a thump at my feet. I was about to reach down and pick it up once more when Entei charged, knocking me down onto my back.
I groaned at the pain, but desperately tried to sit up. Suddenly, I felt a huge weight on my chest as Entei put his foot down, pinning me to the ground. I glared up at him, defiant, as he drew in his breath for the final time, to smote me from this planet.
Stop! A voice echoed around the clearing. Or rather, around the minds of all those in the clearing. Even the trees held still at the sound of the voice.
Entei’s eyes widened, he looked almost fearful.
Are you going blind, my son? Or does your hatred veil your vision?
Now Entei was definitely afraid.
Do you not see the mark upon her brow?
Entei was forced to look at me, forced to agree. He nodded meekly, daunted by the voice echoing though his head. I briefly wondered who could made a legendary submit to their power before the voice continued.
Have you no faith in me, my son? Did you think I had abandoned you? Or did you think I was gone forever, never to return?
“No, never!” Entei stammered. “I just though you wouldn’t come in time! Suicune was the one who thought you wouldn’t come at all, not me!”
And was it Raikou who believed I would come. Was he right?
“Yes, Mother,” Entei bowed his head in shame. “I understand. What do you want me to do?”
But the presence was gone, as if the breeze had brushed it away. I felt empty without that voice in my head. It was like having your clothes taken away in the snow.
“Forgive me, blessed one,” Entei said to me, “How may I be of service?”
“Wh- what? I- I don’t know... I-”
Entei saw the confusion in my eyes, and his own eyes softened in return. “I know,” he said, looking at something on the ground a few steps in front of me. He walked over to the object, which I saw at the last minute was a pokčball. One of my empty ones must have fallen out of my pocket during the fight.
He leaned down over it, gently touching his nose to the ball.
I watched in disbelief as the pokčball blinked three times before sitting still. I walked up to it, bending down and picking it up respectfully.
I released Entei. “Why did you do that? Why do you call me blessed one? Who—” But he cut me off.
“All will be explained in time. But for now, I suggest you get on my back. We need to get help for your charmeleon immediately. I’m afraid I hurt him quite badly.”
I picked up my backpack before I walked to his side, pulling myself up onto his back. I settled down just behind his shoulders, just in front of his billowing cape and the ridges on his sides. I wasn’t sure what to do with my hands, though, for I didn’t want to hurt him by touching the deep scratches and burns on the back of his neck.
“Grab my mane,” he instructed. I complied, amazed at how soft and silky the brown fur on his head was.
“Now hang on tight!” he roared, bounding forward.
It was a wild ride. I clenched his mane between my hands as tight as I could, and squeezed my legs around his torso, but it still didn’t keep me from bouncing up and down horribly. A few times, as well, the spiky ridges on his side stabbed me in the backs of my legs, but I thought nothing of it.
After a while, I settled down enough to realize we were headed west. “Where are we going?” I called out to him.
“Goldenrod!” He shouted back between breaths.
I was worried for a moment, thinking that being seen riding on a legendary pokčmon’s back might bring unwanted attention, but my worry for Blaze overrode all others. Grimly, I tightened my hold on his mane and silently urged him to faster speeds.
A half hour later, Entei and I arrived at the outskirts of Goldenrod. I would have stopped to marvel at the city’s skyline, if I didn’t have more pressing matters to deal with. Pushing aside my thoughts of my first trip to a metropolis, I clung as well as I could to Entei’s mane as we galloped into the city.
At first no one noticed us, perhaps because there weren’t many people about to do so. But as we made our way deeper into the city, to where the pokčmon center was bound to be, I could hear shouts. And I could see why they were shouting.
The greatly feared Entei, a human killing legendary, dashing wildly through the crowded streets of Goldenrod with a dazed and injured human clutching his bloody mane was bound to catch attention.
We dodged around cars, people, anything stupid enough to get in our way. Finally, we arrived at the center.
I hopped off of Entei’s back. He gave me a knowing look as I whipped out his pokčball. He would be killed if I left him outside. I hastened in, holding Blaze’s pokčball in my hand, not caring that the cuts in my hand were bleeding onto it.
The nurse at the counter was obviously alarmed at my appearance but maintained her composure. “What can I do for you, er, miss?”
“Fix him!” I practically shouted at the poor lady in my haste. Frantically, I shoved Blaze’s pokčball into her hand. “He’s been badly injured! Hurry!”
Thankfully, the nurse took my rudeness for panic and turned to a nearby chansey. She ordered the fluffy, pink nurse pokčmon to fetch the doctor, gesturing at me to follow before turning and scurrying away.
I followed her into a operating room that was filled with gadgets and the like. The nurse released Blaze onto the table that stood in the middle of the room just as the doctor walked in.
Blaze was in a horrible shape. He was covered with bruises, cuts and burns on every inch of his body. His tail flame was decreased to a slight ember, and his left arm was obviously broken. His head too, lay at a grotesque angle.
The doctor and nurse both gasped in unison. I had expected something like this, so I wasn’t as surprised. The nurse turned on me.
“What have you done to this poor pokčmon!?” She shrieked loud enough for the entire hospital to hear.
“I’ll explain when you fix him! All you need to know is that I didn’t do this, it happened in a battle!”
Fortunately, the doctor was unruffled and immediately began to inspect Blaze thoroughly, every inch of his battered body.
I realized that tears were running down my cheeks just as the doctor finished up. “Missy, I’m afraid there isn’t much I can do. His neck is broken, his skull fractured, there’s a deep, six inch long gouge in his side and he has a broken arm,” the surgeon looked at me sympathetically, “His tail flame shows just how weak he is. He’s lost a lot of blood, as well. If we don’t put him down, he’ll probably pass on tomorrow at around noon.”
Suddenly, the room was swimming before my eyes, my tears flooding my eyes and splashing down my face. Blaze, my beloved Blaze, was dying? My Blaze who had given everything to defend me, so I could live? No, there was no way Blaze could die. He was too courageous, to special to me to die! No!
With a sob, I somehow made my way to the side of his bed, his deathbed. Perhaps the nurse helped me. I grasped his left paw in my hands, the only part of him somewhat unscathed. I stroked his hand, wishing there was something I could do. I reached for my powers, hoping beyond hope that I could do something.
The spectrum turned blue as I concentrated. I could hear the gasps of the two other people in the room, but I ignored them, siphoning as much of my life energy into Blaze as I could.
When I was done, I could tell it didn’t work. Nothing had changed, except perhaps that I had lengthened the time of his suffering. I cried harder, ignoring the doctor as he hesitantly offered to put Blaze out of his misery.
I sat with him through the night, never leaving his side, not even when the nurse came in to make me come and get my own wounds cleaned up. I refused, tears pouring silently down my cheeks in streams as I watched Blaze slowly wither away.
Just before dawn, I had the mind to let Kara out. She had known him the longest out of my other pokčmon, and I figured she would relish a chance to say goodbye.
“Blaze...” She padded lightly over to the bed, tears running down her cheeks as well. “I’m going to miss you. I’m sorry I never got to tell you...” Kara cut herself off, a light flaring up in her eyes.
“Miyah...” I wiped my eyes and looked at her, suddenly hopeful. “I have an idea.”
“What is it?” I asked, my voice hoarse from weeping.
“Do you know of the pokčmon move, morning sun? It’s a psychic type attack, so I’m sure I can do it. I think we should take him outside, before the sun rises. When it does, we could have Scrap and Entei both use the move sunny day to strengthen the sunlight. Just before we commence, you try to contact Blaze.”
“How do I do that?” I interrupted frantically.
“Telepathically. Reach out for him. All you need to do is convince him to evolve.”
“But he’s much to low of a level to do that! There’s no way!” I was crushed. Here I thought that Kara had the beginnings of a great plan, all but for one major flaw.
“You don’t understand! Pokčmon use levels as a guideline. But if we truly want to, we can evolve whenever we want. Like when I evolved to save you and Rick! Remember?”
I did. Now it all made sense. I was yanked from my pool of despair so suddenly that it left me shivering and wet in the cold, cruel wind of hope.
Now I knew what to do. I knew that now I could try, try to save Blaze’s life, to repay him as well as because I would do it without any reason. Blaze was my friend, my first pokčmon. I couldn’t let him die.
Kara’s eyes glowed blue as she carefully lifted him up, trying not to jostle him at all. My vision tinged blue as I chipped in, helping to carry him. We made our way into the garden in back of the Pokčmon center, just as the sky was beginning to turn pink. I called Cael, Scrap, and Entei out of their balls and began to explain everything to them.
“We know.” Cael interrupted me.
I didn’t question how, I just accepted the fact. Then I began my part.
I knew I would have to hurry, to contact Blaze before the sun rose. I stretched my mind out beyond it’s mental cage, into the nothingness beyond. I grabbed Blaze’s left paw blindly, trying to find where he was, mentally as well as physically.
But I couldn’t. It was as though someone turned out the lights of my brain, and of Blaze’s, sending me to drift away. I pressed the back of his paw to my brow in anguish. That was when it happened.
It was like someone had opened the floodgates to his mind. All of his memories swirled around me, combining and distorting themselves to an unrecognizable state. I searched around, seeking his consciousness, brushing aside past thoughts and recollections with a mental hand until I found him. It was like a hot stone was in the corner of his mind, frightened and lost. A little glowing sphere that was Blaze. I reached out to him, feeling the very cores of our beings touch. His confusion seemed to swirl through my mind, so I focused on one word.
Not the word itself of course, but the blatant, true meaning of it. I sent it echoing around his mind, like the call of an eagle in a canyon: evolve!
I pulled away sharply, leaving me gasping for breath. I looked at Kara. “Now!” I wheezed.
Everything happened at once. Kara’s eyes glowed just as the first rays of the rising sun struck Blaze’s prone form. Scrap, Entei, and surprisingly, Cael, all opened their jaws to the heavens, sending a combined, huge pillar of light towards the horizon, towards the sun.
The sun rays strengthened, as if a godly being had held up a huge magnifying glass. The pool of sunlight surrounding Blaze glowed bright white with the combined forces of all of my pokčmon pouring out energy into him. Just before I added my own strength to Kara’s morning sun, I noticed that Blaze was glowing with his own light, not just from the sun.
I poured out my dwindling energy, making the light unbearable to look at. I closed my eyes, tipping out the last of my usable strength just as Kara, Cael, Scrap, and Entei stopped as well.
I opened my eyes to behold my Blaze, my charizard, good as new except for a thin pale scar across his side.
Entei leapt down from the rock, landing with a jolt that made the ground shudder once more. “What is a filthy human doing on this sacred land?” He demanded, his voice roaring like the fires in a blacksmith’s forge.
Hur hurr, so she wandered into sacred land...will that area have later significance? Or is it just taken as "sacred"?
I thought I was to die, but Blaze had a say in the matter. In a flash of light, he popped out of his ball, looking all the worse for wear.
“I won't let you kill her!” he growled at Entei, his growl seeming quite small in comparison to Entei’s. But he tried.
“Foolish charmeleon, why do you bother defending this weak creature? I’m sure you have better things to do. Why don’t you just give up? If you let me kill this insolent human, I swear upon my honor that I’ll let you live.”
“Never!” growled Blaze. “What type of pokčmon would I be, what type of friend would I be if I turned on Miyah like that?! She would do the exact same thing that I'm doing for her if she could. I would give my life for her!”
While Blaze was great here, I think Miyah's emotions (or rather, reactions) should have been more pronounced, whether the fear in the beginning, or her reaction to Blaze's loyalty.
“Forgive me, blessed one,” Entei said to me, “How may I be of service?”
“Wh- what? I- I don’t know... I-”
Entei saw the confusion in my eyes, and his own eyes softened in return. “I know,” he said, looking at something on the ground a few steps in front of me. He walked over to the object, which I saw at the last minute was a pokčball. One of my empty ones must have fallen out of my pocket during the fight.
I liked how this was handled. Mew's intervention made everything quite plain and logical to happen.
“You don’t understand! Pokčmon use levels as a guideline. But if we truly want to, we can evolve whenever we want. Like when I evolved to save you and Rick! Remember?”
Well, Espeon is friendship evolution, and with her, wasn't there also some thing with her saying her level was lower than it really was?
Either way, a bit deu ex machina-y, but meh.
But yeah...Mew involved! Entei captured! Blaze evolved! Zomg!
~Chibi~;249;;448;
SapphireRose
4th October 2007, 5:25 AM
Haha!
Chareon, excuse moi, but I don't recall Cael or Scrap coming into this. What breed are they?
Yes, yes, Chibi Pika, "ZOMG's" all throughout this one... Indeed...
ZOMG, now I sound like a guru atop a mountain. O_O
Whoa, Entei just caught himself. W-I-E-R-D. But, I should think, neccessary(sp?) to the fic, as it is a revamp.
Me tinks Chibi Pika doth coveredth it all...
-checks-
Yup, yup, done here.
P.S. Do ya remember me, Chareon? ;196;
Chareon
4th October 2007, 6:14 AM
ZOMG!
Ahahaha. FIRSTLY. -pokes you with the stick of 'spoiler tagging'-
Put this:
Well, Espeon is friendship evolution, and with her, wasn't there also some thing with her saying her level was lower than it really was?
in tags! Silly, you aren't supposed to know that!
Anywho. (I might just call you to tell you that. xP)
Either way, a bit deu ex machina-y, but meh.
-sighs- Damned if you do, damned if you don't with levels, huh? Well, Kara does have levels issues, but that's not in the story yet. So if I get more responses after that chapter, I'll fix something (as of yet unknown) then! -writes a sticky note and sticks it to head-
Hur hurr, so she wandered into sacred land...will that area have later significance? Or is it just taken as "sacred"?
Ooh, I guess I can say this now, it's already been significant, you see!
It's the same place as the first scene, in the prologue! Ahehehehehehe. -devious-
I liked how this was handled. Mew's intervention made everything quite plain and logical to happen.
Yay, thank you! xD
I was hoping that this would be the case, otherwise people are like, 'legendaries? no way? say what?' and that's no bueno. x3
P.S. Do ya remember me, Chareon?
Yeah, I do! You've reviewed at the beginning and on the last version, too, right?
Chareon, excuse moi, but I don't recall Cael or Scrap coming into this. What breed are they?
They come in in Chapter 5, Scrap is a Quilava, and Cael is a Houndoom. (Before you judge, go see the circumstances. ^.^)
Whoa, Entei just caught himself. W-I-E-R-D. But, I should think, neccessary(sp?) to the fic, as it is a revamp.
Hehehe. Yeah, I actually wrote this part AFTER all the revamping, but I bet if I wrote it before it would be WAYHARD to edit. x.x -faints at thought-
Cool new chapter! Wow, this was sure filled, wasn't it? First of all, I loved Entei's part. The way he tried to kill Miyah, then Mew told him not to and he just captured himself? Good stuff! I wonder where Raikou and Suicune are... Anyway, I loved the part where Blaze evolved. I really though he was a goner, but I'm really glad he isn't.
“Blaze...” I started to become wary, recognizing the pokčmon, recognizing the danger.
“I know,” he answered, knowing it too. We had stumbled upon a legend, and nothing good was going to come of the encounter.
Entei leapt down from the rock, landing with a jolt that made the ground shudder once more. “What is a filthy human doing on this sacred land?” He demanded, his voice roaring like the fires in a blacksmith’s forge.
*shakes head* I knew we should have taken a left back there...
A half hour later, Entei and I arrived at the outskirts of Goldenrod. I would have stopped to marvel at the city’s skyline, if I didn’t have more pressing matters to deal with. Pushing aside my thoughts of my first trip to a metropolis, I clung as well as I could to Entei’s mane as we galloped into the city.
At first no one noticed us, perhaps because there weren’t many people about to do so. But as we made our way deeper into the city, to where the pokčmon center was bound to be, I could hear shouts. And I could see why they were shouting.
Now that's a vivid image. I love it!
Great chapter, definitely my favorite! Keep it up!
Chibi Pika
4th October 2007, 7:32 PM
ZOMG!
Ahahaha. FIRSTLY. -pokes you with the stick of 'spoiler tagging'-
Put this:
Well, Espeon is friendship evolution, and with her, wasn't there also some thing with her saying her level was lower than it really was?
in tags! Silly, you aren't supposed to know that!
Anywho. (I might just call you to tell you that. xP)
Wait...that was spoiler-ish? But I thought that one of the other Pokemon shot a suspicious glance at her, and that was how--
Or maybe you told me, and I'm just thinking of that part, even though I didn't figure it out from there. Eh heh... xP
~Chibi~;249;;448;
momo1204
18th June 2008, 6:40 AM
Hello...
i happend to stumble on your story "Perish Song" and loved it. But this is about "Price of Freedom" not that 1.
Here is my review of all of the chapters (A.K.A. chapters 1-4 couldnt review other chaps yet too sleepy) since i wanted to wait till i read all of the current chapters. So here it is!
*drumroll*
Review
“Never.” The last of the trio finally spoke up, in a mellow voice that held just an edge of an electric crackle that could strike out at any time. His power held sway over the leftovers of the other two, the incarnation of lightning, of light, of the power in thunder. His yellow and black striped body was configured more like a cat, with sharp claws and long, knife-like fangs. Catlike eyes peered past the stiff white whiskers and the black, helmet-like forehead of his face, while a purple cape and white zigzag tail completed his features.
Great description. I could see this perfectly in my mind.
The first pokčmon to emerge was a chicorita, a small, light-green colored dinosaur pokčmon with a leaf on its head and a necklace of flower buds sprouting on its neck.
Next to emerge was a blue bipedal crocodile pokčmon. As soon as the totodile came out, the chicorita turned and whacked the totodile harshly on the head with its leaf. After blinking a couple of times to clear its head, the totodile turned and clamped its sharp teeth on the chicorita’s leg.
While this was happening, the three Hoenn starters had emerged from their pokčballs and also started fighting; the torchic used ember on the treeko, the treeko used bullet seed on the mudkip, and the mudkip used water gun on the torchic.
Since these attacks were all super-affective on the pokčmon they were used on, all three Hoenn starters winded up fainting.
“Oh, dear!” exclaimed the Professor, “I'm so sorry! I forgot to send this batch out one at a time!” As the Professor said this, he dropped the last three pokčballs on the ground, and cursed loudly as they popped open.
Out of one of the pokčballs came a bulbasaur, a blue frog with a bulb on its back. The bulbasaur immediately sent out long vines and started to try to pull the totodile and chikorita apart.
Out of the next came a squirtle. To my disappointment, it turned its back on the melee, curled up, and started sleeping.
Last to come out was a bipedal orange lizard with large expressive eyes and a small fire on the end of its tail. Unlike the rest of the pokčmon, the charmander turned its attention to me. Its expression seemed to say, “Please pick me! Just get me away from them, and I promise I will do anything for you! I will love you, and if it is your wish, I will fight for you until my last breath leaves my dying body!”
once again great description. one of my favorite parts of the story.
Great charicter(sp?) development. i could easily see their personalities.
Im gonna stop quoting before this gets too long.(too late!)
Sorry but i seem to run out of good words to describe this story. there are many good things but it is getting late for me and im kinda sleepy. there are probably more reviews coming but probably when i find more words.
well... here is some final words (Brakes open the "Emergency Words" box).
this is one of my most favorite stories that i have read.
Keep up the good work!
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
}
|
It could have been worse. Much worse.
The Bruins are in eighth place in the East coming out of the All-Star break and still in jeopardy of missing the playoffs for the first time since 2007. But that seems unlikely after the club played significantly better in the weeks before the break, with a 9-2-4 stretch that lifted them into the final playoff slot.
If the B’s continue to play as they have recently, they should edge higher in the standings.
But just think of the predicament the team could be in if it had not managed to survive surprisingly well without the injured Zdeno Chara (19 games), David Krejci (17), Adam McQuaid (18) and others during November and December.
Credit Providence blueline call-ups Joe Morrow, Zach Trotman and David Warsofsky for filling in quite well for the missing D-men — and various forwards for stepping up in Krejci’s absence.
“Despite all the injuries we’ve had a decent record,” said B’s coach Claude Julien in December. “If we’d collapsed this last month, we’d be in trouble. But we held tight, we battled. It wasn’t always pretty, but we always found ways — with character, determination and perseverance — we found ways to win.
“We can look back at those games and say maybe they weren’t pretty wins, but look how valuable they are now.”
True. But it was not pretty. The Bruins managed to stay close to .500 despite having few, if any, of their key regulars playing well.
So logic would have dictated that the B’s should have been in trouble with the injuries and sub-par play. But they hung around, not too far out of the top-eight, and, when they finally woke up and started to play better late last month, turned their season around.
Had the turnaround not occurred, the individual grades for the first part of the season would have been abysmal — nothing better than C’s, and plenty of D’s and F’s. As it is, most of the marks are at least respectable, with most individuals, like the team as a whole, still having plenty of room for improvement.
GOALIES
Tuukka Rask B
The defending Vezina Trophy winner struggled early with uncharacteristic numbers (2.69 GAA, .901 save percentage after 13 starts) and was rightfully unhappy with the D-zone play in front of him. He did let in some weak goals, however. But he has looked like the Rask of old the past month, with an 8-1-4 mark since Dec. 20. The team GAA in January was 1.60, compared to 3.00 in December.
Niklas Svedberg C+
The 25-year-old Swede has been an adequate backup, going 5-5-0 in 12 games, with a 2.22 GAA and .922 save percentage, giving the B’s a chance to win most nights. He’s been good on initial shots, but allows too many dangerous rebounds.
DEFENSEMEN
Dougie Hamilton B-
Sometimes he looks like a fast and talented star-in-the-making No. 1 defenseman — with 8-18-26 totals, two GWGs and four PPGs. And sometimes Hamilton looks like a 21-year-old kid still learning the job and prone to errors of decision-making or execution. Either way, he seems on his way to stardom, and his first pro fight last week in Denver is a good sign.
Torey Krug B-
Ideally a third-pair, power-play specialist, Krug’s had to do more this season — averaging 19:11, sometimes in the top pair — and has produced 9-15-24 (8 PP points) numbers and a plus-6. The RFA-to-be probably already has a $3 million-a-year deal locked in.
Adam McQuaid B-
The hard-luck D-man missed 18 games with a broken thumb, and team defensive-zone play improved noticeably after his return Jan. 3. The B’s were 7-7-4 without him in the lineup. He’s solid, tough and reliable, but a UFA who could be squeezed out by B’s tight cap.
Zdeno Chara C
The captain was playing so-so when he injured his knee in Game 9, then missed 19 games. The team went 11-7-1 without him. Chara struggled with skating and puck-handling for weeks after returning Dec. 11, but did look more like the tough, shutdown D-man of old in the last several games before the break. Turning 38 March 18, he still has three years and $16 million left on his contract.
Dennis Seidenberg C-
Coming back from major knee injury, he has struggled at times to be the defensive stalwart he was. Looking back, the idea than he might have played in the latter rounds of last year’s playoffs seems farfetched. But Seidenberg has gradually improved in recent weeks, averaging 22:07 of ice time and contributing 3-6-9 with a plus-3.
Kevan Miller C
The solid, strong stay-at-homer has quietly done his job pretty well, with a team-leading plus-13 and 1-4-5 totals in 17:53 of ice time.
Matt Bartkowski D
He was a top-four D-man last year after Seidenberg went down just after Christmas. But via bad turnovers, missed coverages and ill-advised decisions, he’s been in and out of the lineup, playing 20-of-48 games (0-4-4).
Incomplete:
Joe Morrow (15 games; 1-0-1; +3)
David Warsofsky (4 games; 0-1-1; +1)
Zach Trotman (17 games; 0-4-4; -1)
FORWARDS
Carl Soderberg B+
The big Swede has probably been the B’s most consistent forward, with 10-21-31 and plus-7 numbers in 48 games. He was the de facto No. 2 center in Krejci’s absence, but is better suited for the No. 3 role. He’s produced well on power plays, with four PPGs and seven assists.
Patrice Bergeron B-
After 18 games, the B’s top two-way center had just three goals and — more significantly — a minus-2, more even-strength goals-against than ever before. This from a guy who was plus-38 last season. Now, though, after 47 games he has 11-21-32 and a plus-7. He’s remained very good on faceoffs, leading full-time centermen with a 58.9 win rate.
Craig Cunningham B-
The unsung, 24-year-old plays only 10:40-per-game, but plays every second hard and at full speed. Lately he’s fit in at RW on the Krejci-Lucic line. Has modest 2-1-3 totals in 23 games, but could have a future as the B’s fourth-line center.
David Krejci B-
He displayed his obvious value when he returned from injury and the top line began to play much better — heck, all the lines did. Krejci has played only 17 games since the start of November. He’s having a pretty good faceoff year at 53.7 percent.
Chris Kelly C+
His versatility has come in very handy, as he has played both on the wing and, in Krejci’s absence, in the middle. Kelly has 5-16-21 totals and a plus-6.
Loui Eriksson C
As Tyler Seguin soared, Eriksson offered little early this season, with just three goals in his first 27 games. Lately, though, he’s bounced back and has 11-18-29 numbers in 47 games and finally resembles the player the B’s thought they were getting from Dallas. Had overtime GWGs Dec. 17 (Minnesota) and 21 (Buffalo).
David Pastrnak C
With only 12 games, he’d normally get an incomplete, but he’s potentially a very important player for the rest of the season. Pastrnak dazzled with recent back-to-back two-goal games vs. Tampa and Philly, but lately has looked out of step — pushed off pucks and knocked down too easily. But when he has time and room to move, his speed and offensive skills can make the top line — and the team — better.
Brad Marchand C
The pesky winger also started very slowly, with just one goal in the first 11 games. At the break he has 13-12-25 totals and is plus-12, but he needs a productive final stretch to reach last year’s totals of 25-28-53, plus-36. He’s been hit with too many unfair “reputation” penalty calls, but fully deserved his two-game suspension for a slew-foot.
Milan Lucic C-
Another key guy who contributed little in the first five weeks, with only three goals in the opening 22 games — and really an inconsistent scorer all season. The prolonged absence of Krejci seemed to render him mediocre. At the break he has 9-16-25 totals and is plus-7. He needs a big finish to reach last year’s numbers (24-35-59; plus-30). He’s fought three times.
Seth Griffith C-
After starting the season at Providence, the 21-year-old quickly found himself as the B’s No. 1 line right-winger and did a decent job. He scored one of the top goals of the year vs. New Jersey Nov. 10. His role diminished and he is back in the AHL, but he contributed 6-4-10 in 30 games and should have an NHL future as a third- or fourth-line guy.
Reilly Smith C
Being a no-show for the first half of training camp took a toll, as the winger’s timing and hands seemed off and he scored only four goals in the first 26 games. He has 9-14-23 and plus-5 totals, after going for 20-31-51 and plus-28 last year. Fast, with a good two-way work ethic and strong on the puck, he’s in line for an RFA salary bump to some $3 million.
Gregory Campbell C-
His fourth line did not offer much over the first few months, and he had just 1-0-1 in a 24-game span from Oct. 30-Dec. 23. But the center has been better lately, netting the game-winning goal in Dallas last week. He’s still a key to the 12th-ranked (82.8) penalty-kill unit and had a team-high four fights.
Daniel Paille D+
The veteran winger has played only 11:33 per game, and his 1-7-8 production is unacceptable for a guy who skates as well as he does. He’s netted as many as 19 goals in a season and averaged just under 10 the past three seasons. His minus-8 adds to the bleak picture.
Simon Gagne D
The B’s gave the oft-injured 34-year-old a job off a so-so training camp, hoping he’d get better in time. Just as he began to show hints of improvement, he left the team to be with his gravely-ill father. Then, after his dad died, opted not to return even though the B’s wanted him back.
Incomplete:
Jordan Caron (6 games; 0-0-0; -1)
Alex Khokhlachev (3 games; 0-0-0; -2)
Bobby Robins (3 games; 0-0-0; E)
Matt Lindblad (2 games; 0-0-0; E)
Ryan Spooner (5 games; 0-0-0; -2).
COACHING — A
Claude Julien and his staff have had to do more line-juggling than ever in search of offense, and incorporate several AHL call-ups as blueline regulars. Through it all, the B’s have found ways to grind out enough wins to stay in the playoff picture. The team now seems to have regained its confidence and identity.
MANAGEMENT — D
GM Peter Chiarelli is renowned for his patience on personnel moves, but his trade of Johnny Boychuk was premature and brought back too little (two reduced-value second-round choices from the much-improved Islanders). You never know the details of trade talks, but shouldn’t Boychuk have gotten the B’s at least a legitimate top-six forward? We’ll see if Chiarelli can acquire a needed winger in the coming weeks. And then how he handles another crushing cap crunch next summer.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "OpenWebText2"
}
|
package workflow
import (
"database/sql"
"time"
"github.com/lib/pq"
"github.com/go-gorp/gorp"
"github.com/ovh/cds/sdk"
"github.com/ovh/cds/sdk/log"
)
// ExistsStepLog returns the size of step log if exists.
func ExistsStepLog(db gorp.SqlExecutor, id int64, order int64) (bool, int64, error) {
query := `
SELECT octet_length(value) as size
FROM workflow_node_run_job_logs
WHERE workflow_node_run_job_id = $1 AND step_order = $2
`
var size int64
if err := db.QueryRow(query, id, order).Scan(&size); err != nil {
if sdk.Cause(err) != sql.ErrNoRows {
return false, 0, sdk.WithStack(err)
}
return false, 0, nil
}
return true, size, nil
}
//LoadStepLogs load logs (workflow_node_run_job_logs) for a job (workflow_node_run_job) for a specific step_order
func LoadStepLogs(db gorp.SqlExecutor, id int64, order int64) (*sdk.Log, error) {
log.Debug("LoadStepLogs> workflow_node_run_job_id = %d", id)
query := `
SELECT id, workflow_node_run_job_id, workflow_node_run_id, start, last_modified, done, step_order, value
FROM workflow_node_run_job_logs
WHERE workflow_node_run_job_id = $1 AND step_order = $2`
logs := &sdk.Log{}
var s, m, d pq.NullTime
if err := db.QueryRow(query, id, order).Scan(&logs.ID, &logs.JobID, &logs.NodeRunID, &s, &m, &d, &logs.StepOrder, &logs.Val); err != nil {
if err == sql.ErrNoRows {
return nil, nil
}
return nil, err
}
if s.Valid {
logs.Start = &s.Time
}
if m.Valid {
logs.LastModified = &m.Time
}
if d.Valid {
logs.Done = &d.Time
}
return logs, nil
}
//LoadLogs load logs (workflow_node_run_job_logs) for a job (workflow_node_run_job)
func LoadLogs(db gorp.SqlExecutor, id int64) ([]sdk.Log, error) {
query := `
SELECT id, workflow_node_run_job_id, workflow_node_run_id, start, last_modified, done, step_order, value
FROM workflow_node_run_job_logs
WHERE workflow_node_run_job_id = $1
ORDER BY id`
rows, err := db.Query(query, id)
if err != nil {
return nil, err
}
defer rows.Close() // nolint
var logs []sdk.Log
for rows.Next() {
l := &sdk.Log{}
var s, m, d pq.NullTime
if err := rows.Scan(&l.ID, &l.JobID, &l.NodeRunID, &s, &m, &d, &l.StepOrder, &l.Val); err != nil {
return nil, err
}
if s.Valid {
l.Start = &s.Time
}
if m.Valid {
l.LastModified = &m.Time
}
if d.Valid {
l.Done = &d.Time
}
logs = append(logs, *l)
}
return logs, nil
}
func insertLog(db gorp.SqlExecutor, logs *sdk.Log) error {
now := time.Now()
logs.Start = &now
logs.LastModified = &now
query := `
INSERT INTO workflow_node_run_job_logs (workflow_node_run_job_id, workflow_node_run_id, start, last_modified, done, step_order, value)
VALUES ($1, $2, $3, $4, $5, $6, $7)
RETURNING ID `
return sdk.WithStack(db.QueryRow(query, logs.JobID, logs.NodeRunID, logs.Start, logs.LastModified, logs.Done, logs.StepOrder, logs.Val).Scan(&logs.ID))
}
func updateLog(db gorp.SqlExecutor, logs *sdk.Log) error {
now := time.Now()
logs.LastModified = &now
logs.Done = &now
query := `
UPDATE workflow_node_run_job_logs set
workflow_node_run_id = $3,
last_modified = $4,
done = $5,
value = value || $6
WHERE workflow_node_run_job_id = $1 AND step_order = $2`
if _, err := db.Exec(query, logs.JobID, logs.StepOrder, logs.NodeRunID, logs.LastModified, logs.Done, logs.Val); err != nil {
return sdk.WithStack(err)
}
return nil
}
|
{
"pile_set_name": "Github"
}
|
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.