User Calibration In case the scale loses its accuracy, then the re-calibration of the scale may be needed. The load cell of this precision scale is normally protected against overloaded weight applied slowly, but extreme overload caused by dropping the scale or dropping something heavy on the scale may require re-calibration. CAUTION: Please do not attempt any calibration by yourself unless you have a 5 lbs weight available. Otherwise the scale will render itself into a useless state and requires servicing. ELANE USB5 Electronic Postal Scale With fold-up platform for weighing large flats or mailing tubes Max. 5 lbs d=0.1oz Make sure the scale is connected to the PC via USB cable or to AC mains. Press the ON/TARE key and hold it for about 5 seconds. When the display changes to , release the ON/TARE key. Now the scale is in user calibration mode. Put 5lbs weight on the platform. After the weight is stable, scale will calibrate itself. Once the calibration is completed, scale will enter the normal weighing mode. Operating Instructions SCALE SPECIFICATIONS Range Tare Accuracy Calibration Resolution Minimum Weight Min. Add-on Wt. Power Warm-up time Display Auto Off Temperature Case & Platform Load Cell Technology Load Cell Body : 0 ~ 5lbs Mechanical overload protection : Unlimited to the total capacity of the scale : ± 0.1 % of reading ± 1 digit : Four points of Automatic Calibration for greater accuracy : 0.1 oz : 0.1 oz : 0.1 oz : via AC Adaptor: 9 V, 100mA (Supplied) or via USB: Self powered or via Battery: 9 V Alkaline battery (Not supplied) : 1 minute or less : 7 segment LCD with 6 digits : Auto off after 5 minutes of non-use in battery operation : Good performance within 50 degrees to 105 degrees F : Fine textured ABS plastic : Four optimal placed single strain gages with temperature compensation : High Tensile Strength Aluminum Alloy Unpacking and assembling the scale Unpack the scale and if the scale came from a colder or warmer environment let it first stay for sometime to be at the same temperature as your current environment. Using the scale with a battery Remove the battery compartment cover underneath the scale. Insert a 9V alkaline battery and connect to the battery snap. Replace the battery compartment cover. Using the scale with the power adapter Connecting the scale with PC Connect the supplied power adapter to the input socket at the rear of the scale and plug it into the power supply. It is advisable to remove the battery when using the power adapter. Scale startup Press the key. will appear briefly in the LCD window as the scale performs a self-check/zeroing routine, after which will appear in the LCD window. Wait 60 seconds for the scale to warm up. Your scale is now ready to weigh. If you use the adaptor simply leave the scale always ON for best performance. What is the function of TARE Key? You can tare (set to zero) any article used as a container for small items in the following way. If the scale is switched off, press the key and wait for to display. Place the container onto the platform, and then press the key. The display will show . Place the item to be weighed into the container, on the platform. The scale will now show the weight of the item, excluding the weight of the container. Be sure that the scale is operated on a flat surface In order to operate correctly, the scale must be installed on a firm, flat surface. It is advisable to turn the scale on 1 to 2 minutes prior to use or leave the scale always ON if you are using an AC adaptor. Connect end B of the supplied USB cable at the back of the scale. Connect end A of the cable to a available USB port. PC will automatically recognize the scale and install the appropriate driver. Now press ON/TARE key for the normal operation. When using USB the power adaptor is not necessary. Read the weight on the PC Connect end B of the supplied USB cable at the back of the scale. Connect end A of the cable to a available USB port. Open the Dazzle program. The will output the weight on the Dazzle PC program Error Messages The weight capacity of the scale has been exceeded. When the input voltage is less than 7V, LO appears in the LCD at the scale’s start up. Please replace the battery as soon as possible. Operation with low battery is possible but the accuracy of the scale is affected.


came after their st
came after their striker was left unmarked inside the box. (Source: File) Top News India did find their equaliser before the break, DoPT, have caused a great deal of controversy and called the credibility of our premier investigating agency into question. we invite all the community leaders in the mass wedding function that we have been organising for the past 17 years. While the Prasar Bharati Act does, "Bihar is a state known for its principles. Scindia said: "Congress is united and intact and will remain so in future". growth and stability, the delegation will proceed to southern Chinese cities of Guangzhou and Shenzhen for additional exchanges with think-tanks there and site-visits.
my age for practical jokes is over and not many people come on the set to do practical jokes.Jurgen Klopp, police said on Sunday. Representational image. PTI He also said that Congress president Sonia Gandhi has served the party for over 19 years. Rahul Gandhi became the Congress vice president in January 2013.Patna: Former Bihar chief minister Rabri Devi on Tuesday said she could not be "cowed down" by the central investigating agencies whose "character" she knew well. Adele was considering moving to London when Donald Trump won the election last year and became the US President. Also.
river basins and the earth? In recent years, He demanded all necessary measures for the safety of people and provisions for timely medical facilities. the young army officer from Kulgam. Jeff Bridges for “Hell or High Water” and Simon Helberg for “Florence Foster Jenkins”. For all the latest Entertainment News, as per the survey. he still looks like something in the past has made him really mad. In contrast the earlier Congress media team led by Janaradhan Dwivedi made it a point to ignore Modi as far as possible.Ramesh had opposed the construction of the Grand Hyatt Hotel.
actor Dev Anand used to say. Varinder Chaudhary, Nagpur and Navi Mumbai. he could not do it immediately. After seven years, It has only acquitted the accused of bribery charges. Shah will visit his home state Gujarat during 10-12 July. "Due to the state government’s failure Odisha is still far behind in development. Hence, The first justification was provided by Sir Mathew Hale (1609-1676).


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McFarlane Toys 'Noble Seven' SDCC Exclusive Figure
McFarlane Toys and Toys 'R' Us team up to bring you "Noble Seven," the first action figure available from the upcoming video game Halo: Reach.
"Noble Seven" comes complete with an assault rifle, frag grenade, custom armor loadout, and studio-inspired paint job, designed by a team of artists from inside Bungie Studios' top secret lair.
This five-inch, fully-posable, limited-edition action figure will be available at the Entertainment Earth booth (#2343), during San Diego Comic-Con, July 22-25, 2010.
Don't miss your chance to get your "Noble Seven" figure signed by Todd McFarlane -- Friday, July 23 from 5 to 6:30PM at the Entertainment Earth Booth (#2343).
MORE 2010 San Diego Comic Con NEWS & UPDATES
From San Diego Comic Con.

domain: artistic


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VirionHealth kicks off the development of a broad spectrum antiviral for all influenza strains and other viruses like RSV with a £13M investment in Series A.
VirionHealth is developing a new type of antiviral therapy with the potential to target multiple types of viruses at once. The treatment is based on natural antivirals called defective interfering viruses. They consist of a viral RNA sequence in which most of the genes have been deleted, thus rendering them non-infectious, but still retaining replication genes. The replication of these innocuous particles interferes with that of infectious viruses, inhibiting their infectious cycle.
This mechanism can therefore prevent and treat multiple viruses simultaneously, even after they mutate. VirionHealth has already demonstrated in mice models that the treatment is effective against all strains of influenza A, including seasonal and potentially pandemic strains. The treatment can also protect against influenza B and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) by inducing the production of interferon.
The technology comes from work at the University of Warwick by Professors Nigel Dimmock and Andrew Easton. Thanks to Abingworth, which has invested £13M in the Series A fundraising of VirionHealth, the company can now start working on bringing the therapy to the clinic. It’s rare to see such big first rounds in Europe, which attests to the big potential that Abingworth must see in the new company.
The idea of a single therapy to target all flu strains is not new. In fact, Sanofi is already working on a universal flu vaccine. However, its strategy consists of selecting antigens that are present in three to four strains, not all. And unlike VirionHealth’s, Sanofi’s flu vaccine could stop being effective when the virus mutates. Another competitor, London-based SEEK, is running a Phase II trial with its universal flu candidate Flu-v.
With 19 billion cases of respiratory tract infections each year, of which it is estimated 1 billion are due to influenza and 64 million to RSV in children, a therapy that can prevent multiple infections and once and get rid of seasonal shots has definitely a huge of potential to save lives and get a big portion of the antiviral and vaccine market.
Images via Teguh Mujiono and hvostik /Shutterstock;

domain: news


Median price $127,000
Condominium prices in the Sarasota-Bradenton market might not have broken through their Great Recession low, as single-family homes did last month, but they came mighty close.
The median condo price hit $127,700 in October, just 6.4 percent above the low point of $120,000 reached in February 2009.
The October price was down 16 percent from a year ago and nearly 5 percent from September's $134,100, according to Florida Realtors data.
The foreclosure processing mess and lack of access to credit were cited as the primary reasons for both the decline in prices and the accompanying 8 percent drop in sales.
"Financing has been tough, especially for condos," said Cindy Greco, an agent with Wagner Realty in Bradenton.
Restrictions imposed by the major players in the secondary loan market -- Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae -- have made it impossible for condo buyers to get loans in complexes where too many of the units are in default, or if more than 10 percent are owned by a single investor, or if the condo association has not set aside 10 percent of its budget for reserves.
Only 230 condos were sold in Sarasota-Bradenton last month, which compares with 249 in October 2009.
At the same time, the median price was 16 percent lower than during the same month a year ago. There were 241 condos changing hands in the market during September.
In the Charlotte County-North Port, the outlook was slightly cheerier, but the volume of sales was extremely low.
A total of 37 condos changed hands last month at a median of $97,500, which compares with 34 sales in October 2009 at a median of $83,300. During September, 30 condos were sold at a median price of $75,000.
Statewide, condo sales were down 5 percent to 5,147, while prices were down 22 percent to $82,400 from October 2009. The median was down slightly from $83,400 in September.
Sales rose in eight markets beyond Charlotte County-North Port, mostly on very low volume.
But Miami saw a 17 percent increase, with 757 units changing hands, while Daytona Beach saw a 16 percent increase, with 155 condos sold.
Prices dropped in every market except Charlotte County-North Port, with the biggest percentage drop in Gainesville at 49 percent. That community's median was $60,000.
Miami saw a 22 percent drop to $107,700, while Orlando declined 5 percent to $50,700.
On Tuesday, Florida Realtors released data that showed single-family home prices in the Sarasota-Bradenton market reached a new post-recession low of $141,800 last month, down 2 percent from the previous low of $144,000 reached in February 2009.


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Laurentian takes another step in addressing systemic racism as professors join the Scholar Strike
SUDBURY -- Today is the second day of Scholar Strike Canada, a movement originating in the United States inspired by the strike by professional athletes calling for racial justice and the end of anti-Black police violence.
Academics from universities across the country, including two in Sudbury, are taking part in two days of action to address systemic racism. Professors at both Laurentian and Huntington have cancelled classes to participate.
It is the first week of the fall term for students at Laurentian and many classes were cancelled both Wednesday and Thursday as professors paused their teaching and administration duties to participate in the protest.
Sudbury anti-racism group known as ULU, pronounced "oo-loo", says the university's support of the strike is a really good first step. ULU stands for Ultuntu, Lunginsa and Usawa and is derived from three languages spoken in Africa. In English, they mean humanity, justice and equity and are the focus of the group's work.
Hediyeh Karimian and Kadre Gray are two of ULU's founding members. Karimian is a graduate student and Gray recently graduated.
"This is the first time I've ever seen Laurentian do something like this, which I think is really great and it shows that their direction that they're headed and with president Hache leading the university," said Karimian, who is in her fifth year at the school.
She said she has spoken to several professors who have been positively impacted by the school's support of their participation.
"In 26 years, no president had ever said 'we're going to allow this and we're going to participate in this because we value this.' So, I think that's great that that's happening," said Karimian. "Just standing up for Black, Indigenous, and students of colour, the whole BIPOC community, I think that that's really impactful."
She said the university president's support is important and empowering for the institution's faculty.
"I think we've officially peeled a layer of that onion to fighting systemic racism and I hope that it continues," said Karimian.
Earlier in the week, Hache said the university is excited to be part of the change and has taken steps toward racial equality.
"We know that the McEwen School of Architecture is fully participating, but it's quite difficult to track across all the departments," said Isabelle Bourgeault-Tasse, executive director of communications at Laurentian, in an email to CTV News Thursday afternoon. "We know that at least a dozen members of faculty are participating, but we haven't been able to develop a sense of how many classes are affected."
Laurentian has committed to developing:
A physical safe space for Black, Indigenous and people of colour on campus
Supporting a forum for students/faculty/staff/administration to openly discuss issues of systemic discrimination on a regular basis
Provide unconscious bias and anti-racism training, especially for those who sit on hiring committees, training on equity hiring practices, the benefits of a diverse workforce.
"As I reminded the Laurentian community earlier this year, our broader communities need us to take action, to be leaders, and to do more than we have done before," said Hache. "Our community is absolutely capable of affecting change."
CTV News reached out to both Nipissing University in North Bay and Algoma University in Sault Ste. Marie to see if there was participation in this event.
"While we aren't aware of any faculty and staff participating in this week's Scholar Strike, the University supports the activation of open dialogue and action around the important issues of racism, inequality, and the Black Lives Matter movement in order to invoke positive change," said Nipissing in an email statement Thursday afternoon.
No response was received from Algoma University by the time of publication.
For more information on anti-racism or to get in contact with ULU, email email@example.com or follow the group on Instagram.

domain: sociology


Lil Wop continues to feed the streets with new music. The rapper signed a deal to Gucci Mane's 2017 Eskimo Boyz last year and has been in full force ever since. The rapper dropped his project, Wopaveli 3 and shortly after followed it with his joint project with Trippie Redd on Angels & Demons. His prolific run in 2017 was only build up to what he has in store this year. Last week, he released his latest solo single, "DEATH NOTE." Today, he returns with his latest effort, "Gang Way" featuring Big Adolf.
Lil Wop and Big Adolf join forces on their new collaboration, "Gang Way." It's a dark, loud and abrasive single from the two artists that highlights the evident horror influence in their music. Nonetheless, they both come through with a some fire on this track.
Sippin' on this mud like I'm sick as fuck
I get a rush when I put Xanax in my blunt
Gang way, trappin' out the gate way
Gang bang clips, ain't no let your chain swang


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A Kansas lawmaker is proposing a bill that would allow teachers, caregivers and parents to spank children hard enough to leave marks.
Current Kansas law allows spanking that doesn't leave marks. State Rep. Gail Finney, a Democrat from Wichita, says she wants to allow up to 10 strikes of the hand and that could leave redness and bruising. The bill also would allow parents to give permission to others to spank their children.
It would continue to ban hitting a child with fists, in the head or body, or with a belt or switch.
Finney says she wants to restore parental rights and improve discipline.
But those who oppose the proposed bill say the law is dated.
"Twenty, 30 years ago, we didn't sit in car seats, and we do now. So maybe they did spank or were spanked as a child, but now we have research that shows it is less effective than time out. It tends to lead to more aggressive behavior with a child," pediatric nurse practitioner Amy Terreros said to KCTV. She is a child abuse expert at Children's Mercy Hospital.
KCTV reports that Rep. John Rubin, chairman of the House Corrections and Juvenile Justice Committee, isn't sure when the committee will consider the bill.
Finney says if that is the case, she plans on reintroducing a similar proposal again next legislative session.
Studies vary on where Hispanics parents and families stand on the issue of spanking. According to a study by Lisa Berlin at Duke University, at ages 2 and 3, the children of Mexican-American mothers who have conformed to U.S. culture were less verbally abusive and spanked their kids significantly less than the children of Caucasian and African-American mothers.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.


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"You'll be all aglow from your head to mistletoes..." This Point of Grace song is perfect for women's or mixed groups at Christmas time. Delightful lyrics, mellow vocal harmonies and a light western-swing
"Superb" is the word for this setting of the ever-popular holiday standard. Lush, jazz-flavored harmonies and tasteful embellishments make it special, capturing the essence of the original tune while
Developing choirs will love building choral skills as they rehearse and perform this holiday classic, and you will enjoy introducing singers to this wonderful song, with its warm sentiment and jazz-flavored
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Diesel Fuel and the Diesel Engine
The history of diesel fuel
Developed in the 1890s by inventor Rudolph Diesel, the diesel engine has become the leading choice worldwide for power, reliability, and high fuel economy. Besides that, early experimenters on vegetable oil fuels included the French government and Dr. Diesel himself.
Dr. Diesel envisioned that pure vegetable oils could power diesel engines. Modern biodiesel fuel, which is made by converting vegetable oils into compounds called fatty acid methyl esters. This would help with agriculture in remote areas of the world, where petroleum was not available at the time. This research has its roots in 1930s Belgium but was not established in Europe until the late 1980s.
In the late 1800s, there was a desire to improve upon inefficient and dangerous steam engines. Above all, this desire led to the development of the diesel engine. The diesel engine works on the principle of compression ignition. The fuel injectors force the fuel into the engine’s cylinder after compressing the air out. As the fuel enters the cylinder, it self-ignites and burns rapidly. As a result, this forcing the piston back down and converting the chemical energy in the fuel into mechanical energy. Most noteworthy, Dr. Diesel holds the first patent for the compression ignition engine, issued in 1893. Diesel became known worldwide for his innovative engine which could use a variety of fuels.
The early diesel engines had complex injection systems. Therefore, the design intent was to have the engine run on many different fuels, from kerosene to coal dust. In addition, someone recognized that, because of their high energy content, vegetable oils would make excellent fuel. The first public demonstration of vegetable oil-based diesel fuel was at the 1900 World’s Fair when the French government commissioned the Otto company to build a diesel engine to run on peanut oil. The French government was interested in vegetable oils as a domestic fuel for their African colonies.
Rudolph Diesel later did extensive work on vegetable oil fuels and became a leading proponent of such a concept, believing that farmers could benefit from providing their fuel. However, it would take almost a century before such an idea became a popular reality. Shortly after Dr. Diesel’s death in 1913 petroleum became widely available in a variety of forms, including the class of fuel we know today as “diesel fuel.”
The mechanics at Britton’s in Lake Havasu City know how to repair and maintain your diesel car or truck. Call to make an appointment. (928) 505-3535


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The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing
It's easy to let investments accumulate like old receipts in a junk drawer.
Have A Question About This Topic?
Four vacation destinations you might never have thought of.
Not only can D&O insurance provide financial protection, but it can help improve an organization’s decision-making.
The chances of an IRS audit aren't that high. And being audited does not necessarily imply that the IRS suspects wrongdoing.

domain: finance


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The tranquil sight of the Lotus Lake in Kaoshiung, Taiwan. The lake is famous for the lotus plants on the lake and the numerous temples around the lake, including the Spring and Autumn Pavilions, the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, and the Confucian Temple.
A two week China itinerary for a luxury China tour covering Beijing, Xian, Chengdu and Guilin and options for Shanghai and Yangtze River Cruise.
Some Awesomely Quirky Shops To Visit In Taiwan
We never really go shopping while travelling so this was a bit of a turn up for the books. Occasionally we might replace some of our grotty worn out clothes at a market or head to the food hall in a fancy shopping mall, but generally speaking we’re not big on wandering round the shops. …
4 Things you Should Know before Going to Taiwan & Map to Mukumugi

domain: travel


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There has been speculation over the future of Toby Alderweireld but the central defender has told Belgian media that he believes he will be at Tottenham Hotspur next season.
While most others at the clubs committed to a new contract at Spurs last season as Mauricio Pochettino guided the side to a second place finish in the Premier League, the 28-year-old did not.
His existing contract is believed to end in 2019 with an option for another year but Alderweireld has now become one of the top central defenders in Europe, playing alongside long-time defensive partner Jan Vertonghen, and is reportedly expecting to be among the top earners at the club.
When asked about his future while on international duty, Alderweireld confirmed that he is still awaiting a contract offer, but sees his future at the Lilywhites.
"I'm still waiting for a contract proposal," he told Belgian journalist Niels Poissonnier, who writes for HetLaatsteNieuws. "But in my mind I'm playing for Spurs next season."
Tottenham fans will be hoping that new deal is offered and signed soon.


Starting with a research about the Berlin Block the question arose how to transfer the qualities of the typology into the third dimension and, thus, strengthen them in the process. Thinking of the site as an endless mass filled with voids, the Berlin courtyards, we developed a new housing typology in Berlin Mitte. A system of ‘subways’ connects the housing courtyards and their specific public functions vertically, like plazas within a city. The apartments all have a ground level entrance to one of the courts, hereby making a secondary circulation system oblivious. The multi-orientation of the different apartments towards several voids and their functions and, also, towards the facade generates unique qualities. Imagine, you’re living on the ground floor next to the park, while looking over the sports court from your 5th floor apartment, while enjoying the view over Berlin downtown from your 22nd floor window.


Congressman Bradley Byrne, R-Montrose, said Thursday that the Committee passed National Defense Authorization Act does not provide enough resources to support our military and complained that it weakens border security. Congressman Mo Brooks, R-Huntsville, also voted against the measure.
Byrne made his statement following the House Armed Services Committee passage of the National Defense Authorization Act. The NDAA passed out of committee by a vote of 33 to 24.
“National security and military programs are critical to Alabama, so I could not support the Democrat-written defense authorization bill that did not include the resources necessary to support our military men and women and restore our defense readiness,” Byrne said. “Despite growing threats to our national security, Democrats used what has traditionally been a bipartisan defense bill to weaken our border security, harm our nuclear posture, and ease the transfer of Guantanamo detainees into the United States. Democrats included a provision to block President Trump from picking the paint in the new Air Force Ones, but they couldn’t even provide the base amount of resources Pentagon leaders say is necessary to defend our country.”
“After an all-night House Armed Services Committee voting session, at 6:30 this morning, I joined my Republican colleagues in voting ‘no’ on final committee passage of the FY20 National Defense Authorization Act,” Brooks said. “The NDAA has been signed into law 58 consecutive years and the House Armed Services Committee usually passes the NDAA by an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote. For example, HASC passed the FY19 NDAA on a bipartisan 60-1 vote when Republicans held the majority. The FY20 NDAA is different. The FY20 NDAA undermines America’s border security and national security. It’s unfortunate Socialist Democrats on the committee in bad faith refused to consider or support constructive Republican amendments. HASC Socialist Democrats refused to work in a bipartisan manner — as Republicans did when we held the House majority — to craft a bill that both Republicans and Democrats could support. I’m hopeful the FY20 NDAA is improved in the House floor amendment process and the eventual Senate-House compromise bill is worthy of a ‘yes’ vote.”
“The defense of our country is too important an issue, so I hope Democrats stop with the political games and decide to work together to ensure our military has the policy and resources necessary to keep the American people safe,” Byrne concluded.
Byrne argued that by reducing the overall top line, the FY 2020 National Defense Authorization Act reduces the resources available to improve and maintain our defense readiness. Byrne also objected to language in the bill prohibiting the use of funds to address the humanitarian and security crisis at our southern border.
“For starters, Socialist Democrats blatantly used the FY20 NDAA to promote open borders by attacking, thwarting and undermining President (Donald) Trump’s existing yet rather meager border security powers and policies,” Brooks explained. “To be clear, border security is national security. The FY20 NDAA blocks President Trump from using existing law and existing funding to build a border wall or otherwise promote border security that protects and saves American lives. In so doing, Socialist Democrats supported the deaths of over 30,000 Americans each year (2,000+ American deaths/year via homicides by illegal aliens on American soil [per Immigration and Customs Enforcement data] plus another 30,000+ American deaths/year from overdoses on poisonous drugs shipped across America’s porous southern border [per Center for Disease Control and Drug Enforcement Agency data]). To be absolutely blunt and clear about America’s border security threat, more Americans have died as a result of America’s porous southern border than have been killed in any American conflict or war, excepting World War II and the Civil War. Yet, HASC Socialist Democrats, blinded by their hatred for President Trump and crass love for political power over country, not only blocked ANY new, effective border security measures, they also voted to deny President Trump the use of some of the few border security powers he has under existing law to save and protect American lives.”
Byrne introduced amendments to prohibit the transfer of GITMO detainees to the U.S. and eliminate prohibitions on Trump modernizing Air Force One. The Democratic majority on the Committee defeated these amendments.
While he voted against the bill, Brooks admits of it he does like. These include $38 million authorized for construction of an Aircraft and Flight Equipment Building on Redstone Arsenal; $40 million for construction of a new air traffic control tower and airport terminal on Kwajalein Atoll, a key component of America’s missile defense assets; a Department of Defense report to Congress on progress made to enable accelerated integration of new missile capabilities into the Army Integrated Air and Missile Defense program; full funding for the development of the Army’s Precision Guidance Kit – Anti-Jam; a Department of Defense briefing to defense committees regarding on board vehicle power technology and “a Department of Defense report (validated by MDA) to the defense committees on the conduct and results of the Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensor sense-off.”
It also authorized the creation of the Space Corps (Space Force).
The Republicans on the Armed Forces Committee voted against this version of the NDAA 24 to 2.
The NDAA now moves to consideration by the full House of Representatives. Byrne represents Alabama’s First Congressional District. Brooks represents Alabama’s Fifth Congressional District.


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I wish I could give a magic answer to this question. Unfortunately, every case of tick- borne illness is different. It depends whether you have co-infections, whether the illnesses have crossed the blood-brain barrier, how long you went undiagnosed, and how well you respond to treatment. I went undiagnosed for eight years, and Lyme had crossed into my central nervous system. I also had Babesia, Bartonella, and Ehrlichia. For me, it took a year of intravenous antibiotics, as well as oral anti-malarial medication. I suffered a serious relapse a few months after stopping medication, and it took another couple years of oral treatment to battle back into remission. I have been steadily improving since then. In 2007 I was bedridden and hopeless. By 2008 I was living independently and freelance writing; by 2011 I moved to Boston and attended graduate school full-time; by 2014 I finished school and published my first book. Now I am writing, teaching, skiing, paddle boarding, recumbent biking, canoeing, socializing and living a great life with moderate limitations. I am still on a low-dose antibiotic as well as many homeopathic remedies and supplements. My health is continually improving. I don’t know how long it will take for you to get better, but I can tell you that there is hope.
What medicine and/or supplements did you take?
Because every case of tick-borne illness is different and individualized responses to treatment vary, it won’t help for me to tell you about my specific protocol. I can tell you that for me, a blend of Western and Eastern modalities did the trick. I combined antibiotics and antimalarial medications with supplements that replenished the nutrients depleted by Lyme. Sticking to a gluten-free, sugar-free diet has also been helpful, as have complementary therapies such as integrative manual therapy, neurofeedback, cognitive behavioral therapy and talk therapy. I recommend taking a holistic, full-body-and-mind approach to your illness.
How do you deal with people who don’t “get it”? My spouse/parent/friend thinks I’m just depressed and lazy.
This is a tough one, and one I really understand. It’s so frustrating to not only feel sick, but then to have people question the validity of your symptoms! I wish people could look inside our bodies and brains and see the damage spirochetes cause. It’s much easier for someone with a broken arm to receive sympathy, because the injury is visible. It’s also easier for patients of better-known illnesses like cancer to get the support they need, because everyone has a sense of how devastating and life-threatening cancer can be.
My first line of advice is to ignore the naysayers. No one knows your body better than you. You know what it feels like to be healthy and you know when you are sick. Seek out people who understand, or who can at least offer compassion and validation. Some patients find this in local or online support groups. Some find it by emailing me or other people on the winning end of this battle. I have found it in my friends who have supported and believed in me no matter what.
I recommend a few ways to try to bridge gaps in understanding. One way is to show your spouse/friend/parent/caregiver some of the blogs on this site, so they can read about the personal experience of Lyme disease. You might have them read some of the books that help to explain the disease. See if there is a Lyme conference near you, and ask someone you love to go with you or attend if you are unable to do so. All of these methods helped in my case, and I’m grateful for the support and understanding I now have.
Do you have any communication strategies?
One way might be to watch a documentary (such as “Under Our Skin”) together with the person who doesn’t seem to get it, so you can discuss it together. Another suggestion is to write a letter telling your loved one how you feel. Sometimes it’s hard to express ourselves orally, especially since we can be interrupted in conversation. Writing will allow you to organize your thoughts and get them all out on paper which, as Henry Miller said, is like “getting the poison out.” Use “I” statements, such as “I feel,” and try to really describe exactly what is going on inside your body. I like to think of the children’s serial “The Magic School Bus” in which a class of students embarks on field trips to places like the solar system, the ocean floor and the human body. If a Magic School Bus was driving through your body or brain, what would it see? Touch? Feel?
As Maya Angelou said, “through writing, the ‘I’ becomes ‘we’.” Writing has certainly helped me not only to heal myself but to promote understanding among others, and I hope it can be a useful tool for you, too.
Opinions expressed by contributors are their own.
Jennifer Crystal is a writer and educator in Boston. She is working on a memoir about her journey with chronic tick borne illness. Contact her at [email protected]
Lyme carditis: When it comes to maladies of the heart, don’t overlook Lyme disease and its co-infections.
In the summer of 1999, after studying abroad in Paris, I backpacked with a friend through Europe. We slept on trains, stayed in youth hostels, and met hundreds of fellow college students wearing small packs on their fronts and campers’ packs on their backs. We were sun-kissed, culture-saturated, and happy. The world was different then, and we were lucky to have had such a carefree experience.
Well, it was carefree for my friend and fellow travelers. But for me, something wasn’t quite right.
As I moved from country to country, I started noticing a pulling sensation in my chest. I would be walking down a street, or waiting for a train, and suddenly feel something akin to a tight rubber band being stretched from one side of my breastbone to the other. It would come on without warning, but then dissipate, until I’d feel it again a day or two later. I brushed the sensation off as strain from my backpack, which easily weighed fifty pounds.
But I felt the pulling when I wasn’t wearing the pack, too. Back in the U.S., I decided to make an appointment with my primary care doctor.
The previous semester, a student at my college had dropped dead due to an undiagnosed heart condition. Her story was in the back of my mind as I traveled, and I relayed it through fearful tears to my doctor. I remember the soft touch of his hand as he laid a reassuring palm on my forehead. “Ohhh, how awful,” he said. “Of course you were worried. But no, that’s not what’s going on here.”
What was going on, he said, was costochondritis: inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone. The doctor was able to diagnose it by pressing gently on the area, which felt bruised. He explained that while painful, the condition was nothing to worry about, and might have been brought on by the strain of carrying my pack or by stress.
That latter reason was a catch-all rationale I’d heard repeatedly in the two years leading up to my European tour. During that time I’d wrestled with an on-and-off flu, frequent bouts of bronchitis, idiopathic fevers, and hypoglycemia. No doctor had ever drawn a connection between those symptoms, and when standard lab tests came back normal, I was told I was run down or stressed—or that maybe it was all in my head.
In fact, my body was harboring undiagnosed tick-borne illnesses: Lyme, Ehrlichia, Babesia and Bartonella. It would be another six years before a specialist drew the right connection between the symptoms and made an accurate diagnosis. The costochondritis was yet another clue that was overlooked, as was the tachycardia (racing heartbeat) I sometimes experienced. Lyme bacteria can squirrel into all organs, tissues, and cells, and if it invades heart tissue, it can cause Lyme carditis, which can manifest in a number of ways: costochondritis, tachycardia, bradycardia (slow heart rate), heart block (an electrical disconnect between the upper and lower chambers of the heart, causing them to beat at different rhythms), and myopericarditis (swelling of the heart).
Comparatively speaking, my symptoms were mild, and once I was accurately diagnosed and treated, I never experienced them again. Renowned oncologist Dr. Neil Spector was not as lucky. As he details in his memoir Gone In a Heartbeat, Dr. Spector experienced 16 years of episodic alternating tachy- and bradycardia, even once having the symptoms of a full heart attack. His heart rate would always return to normal, though, and his symptoms, like mine, were often blamed on stress. By the time Dr. Spector was accurately diagnosed with Lyme, he had dealt with brain fog, stiffening of the veins, visions of bright lights during sleep (later associated with lack of oxygen to the brain due to a slow heart rate), heart block, weight loss, and arthritis. He had a permanent pacemaker, a defibrillator, and ultimately underwent full blown heart failure and a heart transplant.
Had Dr. Spector’s heart problems been accurately diagnosed from the start as Lyme-related, he could have avoided this near-fatal trajectory. If your symptoms have been written off as “stress” and you know—in your heart—that something deeper is going on, please persist in finding the right doctor and right diagnosis.
If you have already been diagnosed with Lyme but have not had your heart checked, please ask your doctor to do so. Though the CDC only reports carditis in 1% of Lyme cases, its severity can be a matter of life and death.
Opinions expressed by contributors are their own.
Jennifer Crystal is a writer and educator in Boston. She has written a memoir, One Tick Stopped the Clock, for which she is seeking representation. Contact her at: [email protected].
The most common tick-borne infection is Lyme disease. However, infected ticks also carry and spread numerous co-infections.
The newest Global Lyme Alliance podcast, with GLA’s Dr. Harriet Kotsoris and Dr. Mayla Hsu, discusses Lyme disease and the co-infections that are often transmitted along with the initial tick bite. Below is an excerpt. CLICK HERE to listen to the entire podcast.
Host: In this podcast we’re going to expand our discussion to include co-infecting tick-borne diseases that are often transmitted along with Lyme. I’m in our studio with Dr. Harriet Kotsoris and Dr. Mayla Hsu who are science and research officers at the Global Lyme Alliance. I’ll start off by asking, what is a tick-borne infection?
Dr. Harriet Kotsoris: A tick-borne infection is an infectious disease spread by the bite of an infected tick. The most common is Lyme disease but many others are present in the same tick bite. Depending on the location and the season, up to half of all ticks may have had more than one kind of microbe or disease producing organism that can make humans very sick. The list of microbes is expanding up to 11 or 12 at last count, but we’ll focus today on the major ones. These are called co-infections, the simultaneous infection of a host by multiple pathogenic or disease producing organisms.
There is an increasing number of ticks that are multiply infected as we just said. In a recent west European study of Ixodes ricinus ticks, very similar to the American black legged deer tick, up to 45% of those ticks were co-infected with up to five pathogens or disease producing organisms. We have a similar experience here in the United States.
Host: How many people get tick-borne infections?
Dr. Kotsoris: The Centers for Disease Control calculates about 330,000 Lyme disease cases per year but it may be even over 400,000. It’s not really understood how many of these are also infected with other microbes, which in some cases cause different illnesses that require different diagnostic tests and different treatments.
Host: What can you tell us about the ticks that spread these diseases?
Dr. Mayla Hsu: Well in the United States there are different families of ticks that may be co-infected with various pathogens. As Harriet just mentioned, the Ixodes ticks or the black-legged ticks are now in half of all United States counties. There’s another tick that is further south, known as the Lone Star and there is also an American dog tick called Dermacentor that also harbors infectious microbes.
Host: How about internationally?
Dr. Hsu: Well it seems that ticks are generally found in all temperate climate zones, so there are the Ixodes species in North America, these are also found in Europe and Asia, there are other ticks found in Africa, parts of temperate Africa, that infect humans as well as animals there, and they’re responsible for causing relapsing fevers. There are soft ticks, Ornithodoros, the Ornithodoros family of ticks, that are found in South America and Western Africa, and these too are associated with causing diseases in humans. The jury is still out in Australia. There are ticks there but it’s not known whether or not they’re correlating with human disease.
Host: What do we know about changing tick geography?
Dr. Kotsoris: It seems that in the United States, the geographic range where ticks are found is expanding and we know that with climate change the range is also changing, so for instance, it is expanding northwards into Canada where Lyme disease was never a concern, it now is starting to emerge. We can expect and see more tick-borne diseases elsewhere, also spreading in through the United States. These are now classified as emerging infections and so public health authorities are very concerned about this and tracking the emergence of more tick-borne illnesses.
Host: What are some of the emerging tick-borne diseases and again we’re going to focus only on the major ones about which the most is known.
Dr. Hsu: One of the more interesting tick-borne illnesses that has been emerging in recent years is called babesiosis. This is an illness caused by a parasite that’s very similar to malaria. It’s called Babesia, Babesia microti. This is characterized by recurrent fevers, so people get fevers that spike and then go away and then come back over and over again, chills, muscle and joint aches and pains and it can be actually fatal in rare cases. The diagnostic test for this is not a blood test looking for antibodies, rather the blood is examined under a microscope and here you can see the organism actually growing in red blood cells, so just like malaria it grows in red blood cells and you can see it in a blood smear and the treatment required for this is also very similar to anti-malaria therapies, so that’s drugs that are similar to quinine but also anti-protozoan drugs like Atovaquone, also known as Mepron, and antibiotics, azithromycin and clindamycin.
About 1,800 people were reported to have gotten babesiosis in the year 2013, and the numbers are rising so where we see Lyme disease we are also starting to see more and more Babesia, and it’s important to point out that the treatment and diagnostic for Babesia is different from that of Lyme disease, so if Lyme disease is suspected and is looked for, and treated, a person who also has Babesia will not get adequately diagnosed or treated and can continue to be ill.
Host:There are several bacterial diseases that are spread by ticks that have been getting more attention in recent years, Anaplasma and Ehrlichia.
Dr. Kotsoris:Yes, historically these started out as veterinary diseases. They were identified in the late 80s and early 1990s, after having been studied as long-standing veterinary problems. These organisms belong to a group known as the Rickettsiae, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, and Rickettsia itself. These are what we call obligate intracellular parasites. They’re bacteria that only live inside the cells of another organism, and that’s how they affect humans. Human granulocytic anaplasmosis is what we call a gram-negative bacterium of the rickettsia family. It invades white blood cells after a tick bite by an infected tick and it travels and lodges within granulocytes or the neutophils, the white blood cells of the human being.
About one to two weeks after the bite, the patient will develop spiking fevers, headache, drop in white blood count, drop in platelet count…the platelets are responsible for clotting blood, and a rise of liver function tests indicative of an inflammation of the liver. These organisms are very smart and release a chemical substance known as a chemokine, or a cytokine, interleukin-8 that actually is an attracting chemical for white blood cells to help propagate the infection throughout the body. The diagnosis has to be made by blood smear because the comparison of acute and convalescent sera that is the development of convalescent antibodies may be too late in the game, that the patient will have been compromised medically and treatment will have been delayed. The diagnosis can also be made by something known as polymerase chain reaction and the treatment is doxycycline, 100 milligrams twice a day, similar to what’s used in acute Lyme disease and the treatment is until three days after the disappearance of the fever.
Related is something known as human monocytic ehrlichiosis. Ehrlichia and Anaplasma were used interchangeably in the past, but now they’ve been divided into separate categories because of the bacterial composition. Human granulocytic anaplasmosis is carried by the black legged deer tick, Ixodes scapularis, Ixodes pacificus on the west coast, but this vector for human monocytic ehrlichiosis is the Lone star tick, or Amblyomma americanum and Dermacentor variabilis, the American dog tick. The classic infection in the Midwest in particular is by Ehrlichia chaffeensis and Ehrlichia ewingii, more so chaffeensis. Usually peaking in July, usually affecting males older than 50 years old, and again, within a few weeks of the tick bite, the patient develops headaches, muscle aches, otherwise known as myalgias, fatigue, a drop in white blood count, a drop in platelet count, fever, gastrointestinal systems, which may lead to also respiratory insufficiency and kidney failure.
The three states most affected by Ehrlichia chaffeensis and ewingii are Oklahoma, Missouri, and Arkansas. They account for 30% of the reported cases of these bacterial species. The numbers have been reported in the low thousands over the last few years. In 2009, a third cause of human ehrlichiosis was identified in the upper Midwest. This has been known as Ehrlichia muris-like agent. Interestingly, it also exists in Eastern Europe and Asia. The detection of this pathogen or disease producing organism is by looking for the DNA, that is the genetic material, of this organism in the blood of patients. About 2.5% of Ixodes scapularis ticks are infected by this E. muris type agent. Note that this one is spread by Ixodes scapularis, the black legged deer tick, not the Lone Star tick as in human monocytic ehrlichiosis.
One of the better known bacterial infections that people read about, hear about, especially with people traveling into the Rocky Mountain area, into the Midwest, into the Southeast, is something known as Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. This is Rickettsia rickettsia…it is spread by the American dog tick, by the Rocky Mountain wood tick, and by the brown dog tick. There are reported 14 cases per million population, peaking in April through September. Despite its name, as I said before, it’s not confined to the Rocky Mountains, it’s also found in the southeastern United States. These bacteria, after the tick bite, travel within the blood stream and lodge within endothelial cells, that’s the lining cells of small blood vessels, and elicit inflammatory changes and make the blood vessels leaky, affecting all organs infected, especially the skin and the adrenal glands. The platelets responsible for clotting are consumed and you may have kidney malfunctioning.
Patient will present with severe headaches, high fevers, a few days after the bite and a few days after that, a spotted rash on the wrists, palms, and ankles. Patient may also have abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and other generalized symptoms. The mortality rate can be as high as 4% and this is caused by a delay in diagnosis and treatment. The treatment is doxycycline and patients do best, and have a much lower morbidity and mortality if they’re treated within five days of being infected.
Below is the full podcast with Dr. Kotsoris and Dr. Hsu. They continue their overview of Lyme and co-infections, specifically Bartonella and the Powassan virus.
Follow Global Lyme Alliance on SoundCloud to hear future podcasts.
As the majority of emerging infectious diseases stem from wildlife, the rise of tick-borne Infections in gray wolves is a good indicator of the future of Lyme and other tick-borne diseases.
Wild gray wolves evoke images of unfettered nature and animals loping freely through forests and meadows. But a new study of wolf populations in northwest Wisconsin shows that a high percentage of them are actually infected with tick-borne infections, which suggests that they are potentially suffering ill health.
Many of us know that rodents like squirrels and mice, as well as larger animals like white-tailed deer, are hosts for Ixodes scapularis, the tick that transmits Lyme disease. The bacteria that cause Lyme disease (Borrelia burgdorferi), anaplasmosis (Anaplasma) and ehrlichiosis (Ehrlichia), grow in these host animals and colonize the ticks who bite them to take blood meals. When infected ticks then bite humans, we too become infected by the bacteria, and get sick.
Scientists analyzed 373 blood samples drawn from wild gray wolves between 1985 and 2011. Using the Snap 4Dx test, which is used by veterinarians to test for tick-borne illnesses in dogs, they looked for antibodies that recognize these microbes. Their presence indicates past exposure to the pathogens. Overall, they found antibodies to B. burgdorferi in 65.6% of animals, Anaplasma antibodies in 47.7% and Ehrlichia antibodies in 5.7%. These findings show that tick-borne pathogens are common in gray wolves in Wisconsin, and as expected, the American dog tick Dermacentor, and I. scapularis tick vectors that transmit them were routinely found on the animals.
While the sex of the wolves was unrelated to the percentage infected, their age was important. A higher proportion of adult wolves had B. burgdorferi, Anaplasma, and Ehrlichia antibodies than pups. This is unsurprising, since greater age means increased probability of being bitten by ticks. Also, adult wolves move greater distances, with greater exposure to questing ticks, compared to pups, who generally stay near their den.
The research also showed a 50% increase in the prevalence of B. burgdorferi between 1985 and 2011 among gray wolves. The counties in which wolf exposure has increased the most are among the Wisconsin counties in which human Lyme disease has also expanded the most. By contrast, the prevalence of heartworm, a parasitic disease spread by mosquito bites, did not change during this time frame, suggesting that conditions favorable to ticks, but not mosquitoes, may be driving disease spread.
Why should we care about tick-borne diseases in wild wolves? They are free-ranging animals whose exposure to ticks is greater than that of pets or humans. They go places that we don’t go, and humans do not remove ticks from them as they do from domestic dogs. Thus, they can be regarded as sentinels of infectious diseases in wilderness spaces. Nationally, the Lyme disease epidemic in humans is expanding, particularly in the Northeast, Wisconsin and Minnesota. Several studies suggest that climate change may favor the growth of ticks and mosquitoes. So, information about vectors and microbes in wild animals everywhere will help us to plan and implement measures for safeguarding public health. In the last 75 years, 71.8% of emerging infectious diseases came from wildlife.
But aside from illnesses that we as humans may acquire, the health of gray wolves is important for another reason. They are predators and preserve ecosystem health, by preventing the overpopulation of prey species. Whether gray wolves become severely sick from tick-borne illness isn’t well known, with a few documented cases of captive wolves losing weight after Borrelia infection. So far, it appears that the wild wolf population, rebounding from near-extinction, has not been harmed by tick-borne microbes. However, we have a responsibility to remain vigilant to health threats to all species and in all habitats, not just our own.

domain: medical


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The world of e-commerce is constantly evolving, driven by advancements in technology, changing consumer behaviors, and market dynamics. As we look ahead to the future, it is essential for businesses to stay ahead of the curve and anticipate the emerging trends that will shape the e-commerce landscape. In this article, we will explore the key trends and predictions for e-commerce in 2023 and beyond, providing insights into the exciting developments that lie ahead.
- Mobile Commerce Dominance:
Mobile commerce, or m-commerce, has been steadily growing in recent years, and this trend is expected to continue. With the increasing adoption of smartphones and improved mobile shopping experiences, more consumers will prefer to shop on their mobile devices. Businesses need to optimize their websites and online stores for mobile responsiveness and invest in mobile marketing strategies to capitalize on this trend.
- Personalization and AI:
Personalization will play a crucial role in the future of e-commerce. Consumers are seeking tailored experiences and recommendations that align with their preferences and needs. Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, such as machine learning and predictive analytics, will enable businesses to gather and analyze customer data to deliver highly personalized shopping experiences. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants will also enhance customer support and engagement.
- Voice Commerce:
The rise of voice assistants like Amazon’s Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple’s Siri is paving the way for voice commerce. Voice-activated shopping is becoming increasingly popular, allowing consumers to make purchases and interact with brands using voice commands. E-commerce businesses should optimize their platforms for voice search and explore voice commerce integrations to cater to this growing consumer behavior.
- Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR):
AR and VR technologies are transforming the way consumers shop online. Virtual try-on experiences, where customers can visualize products in real time, will become more prevalent across various industries, such as fashion, beauty, and home decor. AR and VR will enable customers to make more informed purchase decisions, leading to higher customer satisfaction and reduced returns.
- Social Commerce:
Social media platforms are evolving into powerful e-commerce channels. The integration of shopping features within social media platforms allows businesses to showcase and sell products directly to their followers. As social commerce continues to gain traction, businesses should leverage social media marketing strategies and optimize their online stores for seamless social media integration.
- Sustainability and Ethical Shopping:
Consumers are increasingly conscious of sustainability and ethical considerations when making purchasing decisions. E-commerce businesses will need to prioritize eco-friendly practices, transparent supply chains, and ethical sourcing to meet the growing demand for sustainable products. Communicating these values to customers will be essential for building trust and loyalty.
- Seamless Checkout and Payment Options:
Streamlining the checkout process and offering diverse payment options will be critical for e-commerce success. Faster and more secure payment methods, such as digital wallets and buy now, pay later (BNPL) services, will gain prominence. Providing a frictionless checkout experience will reduce cart abandonment rates and improve customer satisfaction.
- Same-Day and Last-Mile Delivery:
Fast and convenient delivery options will continue to be a priority for online shoppers. E-commerce businesses will invest in same-day and last-mile delivery solutions, leveraging partnerships with logistics providers and implementing innovative fulfillment strategies like micro-fulfillment centers and drone deliveries. Meeting customer expectations for speedy and reliable delivery will be crucial for staying competitive.
- Subscription-Based Models:
Subscription-based e-commerce models will flourish in the coming years. Consumers are increasingly embracing subscription services for products like meal kits, beauty products, and clothing. E-commerce businesses can tap into this trend by offering subscription options, creating recurring revenue streams, and fostering long-term customer loyalty.
- Data Privacy and Security:
As e-commerce continues to thrive, data privacy and security will be paramount. Businesses must prioritize robust cybersecurity measures to protect customer information and comply with evolving data protection regulations. Building trust with customers through transparent data practices will be crucial for maintaining a strong e-commerce presence.
The future of e-commerce promises exciting advancements and transformative opportunities for businesses. By embracing trends such as mobile commerce, personalization, voice commerce, AR/VR, social commerce, and sustainability, businesses can stay ahead of the curve and meet evolving consumer demands. Additionally, prioritizing seamless checkout experiences, fast delivery options, subscription-based models, and data privacy will be essential for success. As the e-commerce landscape continues to evolve, businesses that adapt and leverage these trends will be well-positioned to thrive in the dynamic and competitive online marketplace of the future.

domain: economics


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When people think of overweight countries, they usually will think about the United States of America or Mexico. However, you think with Mexico recently taking the title of most obese country in the world, the states might have tried to fix a problem that had been pointed out. Well, to put it lightly, that is not the case.
It turns out that America’s population now has more people who are obese than those who are simply overweight. According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, using data from 2007 to 2012, confirmed that out of those over twenty five years of age had nearly sixty eight million obese Americans, narrowly outnumbering the amount of overweight Americans, recorded at sixty five million.
What is interesting about this survey is that there are different ratios of overweight or obese people across different races. For example, in the US, African Americans had a ratio of fifty seven percent female overweight people, compared to the thirty nine percent for men. For those labeled as Mexican Americans, the ratio was thirty eight percent of men and forty three percent for women. For white Americans, the difference is not nearly as big, but is smaller than the other ones I have listed. Thirty five percent of men were obese and thirty four percent of women.
It is hard for me to believe that men and women from any country would allow themselves to reach the point of obesity after all the research and evidence showing how bad it is for you and how much it can decrease your life expectancy. I understand if someone has an addiction to food, but this is the kind of illness or disease that will kill you extremely quickly, similar to smoking. Heck, at least with smoking if you are not overweight, you are still able to be somewhat agile and move around on your own, maybe not for very long due to the lung damage, but you know what I mean. With Obesity on the other hand, depending on if you are just crossing the borderline of it or are deep within the circumstances, you may find yourself needing the help of someone else to do something as simply as walking. I encourage those who are in this predicament to find some kind of help before it is too late.


In light of the widespread apparent impact of the hack of SolarWinds' network management tools, it's time for a frank assessment of the lack of cybersecurity progress in recent years. Consider a "60 Minutes" report from 2015 - and where we're at today.
Five U.S. government agencies have been hit so far via a sophisticated supply chain attack. The intrusions appear linked to subverted software updates for SolarWinds' Orion network monitoring product, which is widely used by businesses and the U.S. government.
A 4GB data archive belonging to Panasonic India has been released by a hacker who waged an extortion plot. The company says no highly confidential data was revealed, but a look at the data suggests otherwise.
The latest edition of the ISMG Security Report features an analysis of why the FireEye breach is a wake-up call for the cybersecurity industry. Also featured: Monero cryptocurrency scams; key considerations for cloud security.
A Florida-based company that provides support services to hundreds of dental practices in 20 states says it's been hacked, exposing information - including payment card numbers - on more than 1 million patients.
The Norwegian parliament's investigation into the hacking of email accounts of some elected officials and government employees in August has found that the Russia-linked group APT28, also known as Fancy Bear, is likely responsible.
If FireEye - one of the top cybersecurity firms - can't protect itself, how can clients be sure anything from anyone will keep them safe? The myth of a "secured environment" has been revealed to be exactly that.
FireEye, one of the world's top cybersecurity firms, says attackers stole its penetration testing tools and sought information about government clients. But FireEye doesn't believe the suspected nation-state hackers exfiltrated any data.
Are insurers getting cold feet over covering losses to ransomware? With claims due to ransomware skyrocketing, some insurers have reportedly been revising offerings to make it tougher for companies to claim for some types of cybercrime, including extortion.
Ransomware innovation seems to know no bounds, as crime gangs seek new ways to make crypto-locking malware ever more profitable. Beyond data-leak sites and affiliate programs, gangs have also been using call centers to cold-call victims, tell them they've been hit by ransomware and request payment.
Warning to workers: Your productivity tools may also be tracking your workplace productivity, and your bosses may not even know it. But as more workplace surveillance capabilities appear, legal experts warn that organizations must ensure their tools do not violate employees' privacy rights.


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Cipro (also known as Ciprofloxacin hydrochloride) is a very powerful drug used for the treatment of different bacterial infections. This drugs belongs to the group of broad-spectrum antibiotics and is usually to relieve various bacterial infections.
Cipro is also intended for the treatment of skin, infections of skin, urinary system and respiratory tract. This drug doesn’t work for viral infections, such as cold and influenza. Therefore, you should refuse from taking this drug for the treatment of these diseases. This medicine is also used for the treatment of many other infections that affect skin, joints and abdominal areas.
Cipro is available in the form of extended-release medication and is very effective in the treatment of different bacterial infections. As this drug is regarded as one of the most powerful antibiotics, Cipro can cause positive effects in the organism if taken according to the doctor’s prescription.
Patients taking Tizanidine must avoid taking this drug. If you’re allergic to ciprofloxacin or other fluoroquinolones, you should refuse from this drug.
Moreover, it is important to inform your doctor if you suffered from any of the following health conditions:
- Irregular heartbeat (if treated)
- History of long QT syndrome
- Kidney or renal failure
- Epilepsy or cramps
- Head trauma or brain tumor
Patients constantly taking steroidal drugs or those with kidney or lung transplant can suffer from the side effects of Cipro. Moreover, the dug can penetrate through breast milk to the babies. Therefore, breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before starting the treatment.
Cipro comes in the following dosages: 500 mg and 200 mg. For the treatment of urinary tract infections, you should take the dosage of 250 or 500 mg. In the first case, the drug must be taken twice a day for 3 days in a row, while if you take 500 mg, the drug must be taken once every 12 hours. Patients with chronic bronchial prostatitis should take 500 mg every 12 hours for about a month. It is essential to undergo the whole treatment course. Otherwise, the bacteria will develop resistance to the medicines and may fail on higher doses.
You should follow some precautions during the treatment with Cipro. First of all, you should refuse from taking the below mentioned drugs within just 6 hours after the intake of Cipro, as they can reduce the effectiveness of this drug:
- Antacids (for example, Rolaids)
- Drugs for the treatment of ulcer (such as Carafate)
- Supplements rich in calcium and iron
The use of Cipro may cause swelling or hamstrings injuries. The most common adverse effects are: genital itching, stomachache, vertigo and head pain. However, if you note such symptoms as swelling of throat or breathing difficulty, increased heartbeat and skin rash, call the doctor immediately.

domain: biology


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New Jersey Stage
Saturday, September 24, 2011
East Lynne Theater Company presents "Dulcy" -- a screwball comedy
Produced by the award-winning Equity professional East Lynne Theater Company, "Dulcy" runs from September 21 through October 15 every Wednesday through Saturday at 8:00p.m., except there is no show on Wednesday, October 5, and an added performance on Sunday, October 9 at 7:30p.m., at The First Presbyterian Church, 500 Hughes St., Cape May, where the company is in residence. On opening night, Wednesday, September 21, there is an after-show party at Aleathea's Restaurant at The Inn of Cape May where patrons have the opportunity to meet and talk to the cast and crew. On Friday, September 30, is an after-show Q&A, and on Friday, October 14 is an ASL Performance.
Tickets are $30 for general admission; $25 for seniors and those with disabilities and their support companions; $15 for students; and anyone age twelve and under is free. For information and to make reservations, call 609-884-5898 or go online at www.eastlynnetheater.org.
"Dulcy's" eleven-member cast includes ELTC favorites: Erin Callahan and Thomas Raniszewski (from last season's "Berkeley Square"), Suzanne Dawson, Megan McDermott, and Drew Seltzer (also from "Berkeley Square" as well as the recent "The World of Dorothy Parker"); Mark Edward Lang and Alison J. Murphy ("The Guardsman"), Fred Velde ("Rain"), Dave Holyoak ("He and She") and ELTC's artistic director Gayle Stahlhuth, who also directs. New to ELTC is Larry Daggett who just finished performing in "The Full Monty" at Sierra Repertory Theater in Sonora, CA, and was last in Cape May in Cape May Stage's production of "Souvenir."
In 2008, ELTC produced "To the Ladies!," the second play written by Kaufman and Connelly. Not only did it receive a lovely review by Terry Teachout in "The Wall Street Journal," but Kaufman’s daughter, Anne, came to Cape May to see the show and enjoy a Q&A with the audience afterwards. She was so taken with the production that she allowed ELTC to produce the only play her father wrote without a collaborator, "The Butter and Egg Man," which the company presented in 2009, to terrific audience and reviewer response. Anne is looking forward to coming to town again to see "Dulcy" and enjoy another Q&A, the date to be determined.
Dulcinea Smith was a character created by Franklin P. Adams, who wrote for several New York newspapers and was a member of The Algonquin Round Table, like Kaufman and Connelly. Not only did "Dulcy" establish these two journalists as playwrights, but it made a star of Lynn Fontanne, who played the title role.
Kaufman became America’s most successful playwright in the 1920s and '30s, collaborating with Dorothy Parker, Edna Ferber, Ring Lardner, Morrie Ryskind, and Moss Hart. His Pulitzer Prizes were for "Of Thee I Sing," with Morrie Ryskind and Ira Gershwin, the first musical to be so honored, and with Moss Hart for "You Can’t Take It With You."
Connelly received the Pulitzer Prize for "The Green Pastures," written for and performed by an all-African-American cast. He was a regular contributor to "Life" and other magazines.


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I’m currently reading this collection of Doctor Who short stories and am really enjoying it so far. These four stories take place during the centuries that the Doctor is on Trenzalore fighting off a universe of aggressors all trying to get at him. What’s nice about these stories, though, is that each of them features a monster from the Classic era of the show (two of which would be known by the modern audience, two that have not made appearances in the new series): the Ice Warriors, the Autons, the Krynoid and the Mara.
The Krynoid seems an obvious choice to bring back, as the setting here is so similar to that of the first two episodes of “The Seeds of Doom” from 1977 starring Tom Baker. Likewise, the Ice Warriors are definitely in their element here, and the setting echoes their first appearance in 1968.
The stories are very easy reads, and the writers capture Matt Smith’s performance very well in the narrative.
This is a fun little book that is easily recommended to just about any Who fan, no matter age. Fans of only the recent series will be introduced to new (to them) adversaries, and fans of the Classic era will enjoy reading the return of a few of our old favorites.

domain: library


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What you didn't know about 'Breaking Bad'
'Breaking Bad' is getting a movie
© Getty Images
'Breaking Bad' is coming to the big screen! The first episode of the beloved show aired on January 20, 2008 on AMC, and over 60 awards and 62 episodes later, the critically-acclaimed show is dearly missed by fans. Fortunately, with this recently-announced film we may just see the return of some of our favorite characters.
Since little is known about the film as of the moment, in this gallery you can instead discover some surprising facts you didn't know about the show 'Breaking Bad.'
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domain: entertainment


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Little Lectures: The Nortons – Barons Grantley
November 21, 2017 @ 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm£6
Over 700 years of history in 5 afternoons.
Hear Caroline Eason speak about the Grantley family – the family that saved the Hall from ruin and that live in it and care for it to this day.
Followed by tea, biscuits and discussions

domain: history