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This space may be updated throughout the day, so keep check back for more news.
Chrissy Teigen has declared her husband John Legend to be a DILF.
His response? “I’m glad at least one person wants to fuck me.” [Us Weekly]
Rose Byrne revealed that her breast milk was confiscated by the TSA during a Thursday, May 19, appearance on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert in New York City.
“I’ve been doing a lot of traveling too so I’ve been taking my breast milk everywhere with me,” she said.
“They wave this weird thing over the top of it and there’s this production going on,” she said of the officers scanning her milk. “I just stand there and smile and tell them that it’s really breast milk.”
“They take it very seriously,” she said.
Joe Jackson would like you to know that he is not dead. An update was posted to the 87-year-old talent manager’s website on Thursday, titled “I Am 100% Alive” where he shot down rumors of his death after being admitted to a Los Angeles hospital last Friday due to a high fever that occurred during a routine checkup.
— Joseph Jackson (@Joe5Jackson) May 19, 2016
“The rumors of my death have been greatly exaggerated,” the note reads. “Please ignore all the stupid false rumors from people who seem to find humor in such topics.”
The feud between Holly Madison and Kendra Wilkinson doesn’t look like it is going to end anytime soon, so Bridget Marquardt is finally speaking out about her thoughts on it. E! Online shared what Bridget had to say about Holly and Kendra not being able to get past their issues. Bridget, Holly, and Kendra were all on The Girls Next Door together and lived at the Playboy mansion with Hugh Hefner.
“It’s kind of sad. Like I feel like we have a bond, the three of us. It’s kind of like, it’s not like a sisterhood, it’s not like friends, I mean it is friends, but it’s something totally different than any other relationship you could possibly imagine,” the engaged reality star began to explain. [E! Online]


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Unlike American cinema where there is a separation among Hollywood and Indie films, in Vietnam, there is a different binary between state-sponsored and independent films (with independent cinema further divided into art and commercial cinemas). Due to their self-sufficiency with regard to governmental production and release systems, independent art films directly criticize socio-cultural and political issues. They challenge the narratives of government-sponsored cinema and often are subjected to public censorship. For this reason, independent art cinema in Vietnam has the ability to liberally discuss issues and supplement the ecological discourses found in state and independent commercial cinemas. Besides, in independent art cinema, concerns about the ecological environment, nature and the non-human world are increasingly manifest, almost in parallel with the rapid progress of urbanization and globalization recently. Based on the approach of eco-cinema, this talk tries to answer an important question: How does independent cinema with its unique visual language construct ecological discourses? Through examining both the subtle and energetic changes in eco-aesthetics, the talk also sets out the possibility of discussing about the eco-justice of those films in a critical and suggestive way. To clarify this assertion, I will analyze the movies of four independent directors that have won many international awards: Phan Dang Di, Nguyen Hoang Diep, Siu Pham, and Nguyen Vo Nghiem Minh.
Visiting Scholar TalksBetween Ideals and Reality: The Working Class‘s Role in China’s Education Revolution
Monday, December 11, 2023
Visiting Scholar TalksFactions in Flux: Intergroup Collaboration and Conflict in the Red Guard Movement
Tuesday, December 12, 2023

domain: artistic


On Wednesday morning, Game of Thrones author George R.R. Martin responded to Donald Trump being elected in a post titled “President Pussygrabber” on his Livejournal.
In it, GRRM calls Trump the “least qualified candidate ever nominated by a major party for presidency” and a “dangerously unstable player on the world stage.”
“Over the next four years, our problems are going to get much, much worse,” he continues. “Winter is coming. I told you so.”
The full text of the post reads:
There are really no words for how I feel this morning.
America has spoken. I really thought we were better than this. Guess not.
Trump was the least qualified candidate ever nominated by a major party for the presidency. Come January, he will become the worst president in American history and a dangerously unstable player on the world stage.
And the decimated Democrats, a minority in both House and Senate, do not have the power to hinder him.
Over the next four years, our problems are going to get much, much worse.
Winter is coming. I told you so.
Current Location: Slough of Despond
Current Mood: depressed
Well, there you have it. You heard it from the creator of Westeros himself.
BuzzFeed has reached out to GRRM’s publicist for comment.


Gas-phase olefin polymerization process The present invention relates to a process for the gas-phase polymerization of olefins in a fluidized bed reactor.
The development of catalysts with high activity and selectivity of the ~iegler-1lTatta type and, more recently, of the metallocene type has led to the widespread use on an industrial scale of processes in which the olefin polymerization is can-ied out in a gaseous medium in the presence of a solid catalyst. An example of said gas-phase polymerization processes involves the use of a fluidized bed reactor wherein a bed of polymer particles are maintained in a fluidized state by the upward flow of gaseous monomer. During the polymerization, fresh polymer is generated by catalytic polymerization of the monomer and polymer product is continuously withdrawn to maintain the bed at a constant volume. Industrial processes employ a distribution plate to dispense the fluidizing gas to the bed, and to act as a support for the bed when the supply of gas is cut off. The polymer product is generally withdrawn from the reactor via a discharge conduit arranged in the lower portion of the reactor near the distribution plate. The fluidized bed comprises a bed of growing polymer particles and catalyst particles. This reaction mixture is maintained in a fluidized condition by the continuos upward flow of a fluidizing gas which comprises recycle gas and monomer make-up. The fluidizing gas enters the bottom of the reactor and is passed through the distribution plate to the fluidized bed.
The polymerization of olefins is an exothermic reaction and it is therefore necessary to provide means to cool the bed to remove the heat of polymerization. In the absence of such cooling the bed would increase in temperature until, for example, the catalyst turns inactive or the polymer particles are partially fused. In a fluidized bed polymerization, the preferred method for removing the heat of polymerization is by feeding to the polymerization reactor a recycle gas stream at a temperature lower than the desired polymerization temperature.
Such a gas stream, while passing through the fluidized bed, allows conducting away the heat of polymerization. The recycle gas stream is withdrawn from the upper zone of the reactor, cooled by passage through an external heat exchanger and then recycled to the reactor. The temperature of the recycle gas can be adjusted in the heat exchanger to maintain the fluidized bed at the desired polymerization temperature.
According to this method of reactor cooling, the recycle gas stream generally comprises, besides the gaseous monomers, also inert and diluent gases, such as propane, and gaseous chain transfer agents, such as hydrogen. Thus, the recycle gas stream serves to supply the monomer to the bed, to fluidize the bed and also to maintain the bed at the desired temperature.
Monomers consumed by the polymerization reaction are normally replaced by adding make-up gas to the recycle gas stream.
It is well known that the space time yield, in terms of weight of polymer produced per unit volume of reactor and per unit time, in a commercial gas fluidized bed reactor is limited by the maximum rate at which the heat of polymerization can be removed from the reactor.
The rate of heat removal can be increased, for example, by increasing the velocity of the recycle gas and/or reducing the temperature of the recycle gas. However, there is a limit to the velocity of the recycle gas that can be employed in the industrial practice. Beyond this limit the bed can become unstable or even lift out of the reactor along with the gas stream, leading to blockage of the recycle line and damage to the recycle gas compressor. There is also a limit on the extent to which the recycle gas can be cooled in practice.
This is primarily determined by economic considerations, and in practice is normally determined by the temperature of the industrial cooling water available on site.
Refrigeration can be employed if desired, but this adds to the production costs.
Thus, in the commercial practice the use of cooled recycle gas as the only means of removing the heat of polymerization from the gas fluidized bed reactor has the disadvantage of limiting the maximum production rate. In order to overcome this disadvantage, different methods have been suggested for removing the heat of polymerization from a fluidized bed polymerization process.
EP 89 691 relates to a process for increasing the space time yield in a continuous gas fluidized bed process for the polymerization of olefins. t~ccording to this patent, the recycle gas stream is intentionally cooled to a temperature below the dew point of the recycle gas stream to produce a two-phase gas/liquid mixture under conditions such that the liquid phase of said mixture will remain entrained in the gas phase of said mixture. The heat of polymerization is removed by introducing said two-phase mixture into the reactor at a point in the lower region of the reactor, and most preferably at the bottom of the reactor to ensure uniformity of the fluid stream passing upwardly through the fluidized bed. The evaporation of the liquid phase takes place inside the polymerization bed and this ensures a more effective removal of the heat of polymerization. This technique is referred to as operation in the "condensing mode". By operating in the "condensing mode", the cooling capacity of the recycle stream is increased by both the vaporization of the condensed liquids entrained in the recycle stream and as a result of the greater temperature gradient between the entering recycle stream and the reactor. The specification of EP 89 691 states that the quantity of condensed liquid contained in the gas phase should not exceed about 20% by weight and preferably should not exceed about 10% by weight, provided that the velocity of the two-phase recycle stream is high enough to keep the liquid phase in suspension in the gas and to support the fluidized bed in the reactor. The recycle system described in this patent is such that all the condensed liquid is introduced in the lower region of the fluidized bed. As a consequence, the cooling capacity of the recycle stream in the upper region of the fluidized bed is very poor.
US 4,588,790 also relates to a polymerization process of olefins in a fluidized bed reactor by operating in the "condensing mode". This patent deals with the problem of the carryover of solid particles in the recycle stream. The smallest polymer particles, also called the "fines", are carried over by the gaseous stream and are recycled to the reactor together with the liquid phase so that they can create undesiderable "mud" inside the fluidized bed. This "mud" can be formed by the wetting of the fines, their agglomeration and accumulation as "chtuzks" in regions of relatively low velocity in the system, for instance near the gas distribution plate. In order to minimize the formation of "mud", the specification of US
4,588,790 states that the weight ratio of liquid to solids in the recycle stream should not be less than about 2:1. The higher is said ratio, the lower is the probability of formation of chunks when the "condensing mode" is adopted. As regards the introduction of the condensed liquid inside the fluidized bed, tlus patent discloses the possibility of splitting the two-phase mixture in more separated streams, and some of them can be introduced directly into the fluidized bed. However, the gases introduced below the fluidized bed must be sufficient to support the fluidized bed and to maintain it in a fluidization condition.
Accordingly, the major portion of the two-phase gas/liquid mixture must necessarily be fed at a point below the fluidized bed: this limitation makes ineffective the cooling capacity of the recycle stream in the upper region of the fluidized bed.
EP 699 213 relates to a continuos fluidized bed process for the polymerization of olefins operating in the condensing mode. According to this patent, after the cooling of the recycle stream at a temperature below its dew point, at least part of the condensed liquid is separated by the gas phase and introduced directly into the fluidized bed. In order to gain the maximum benefit in teen of cooling of the fluidized bed, the separated liquid must be introduced in the region of the bed that has substantially reached the temperature of the gaseous stream leaving the reactor. The introduction of the separated liquid may be carned out at a plurality of points within this region of the fluidized bed, and these points may be at different heights within this region. For example, the points of introduction of the liquid into the fluidized bed may be approximately 50-70 cm above the fluidization grid.
Injection means are required, preferably nozzles, arranged such that they protrude substantially vertically into the fluidized bed or may be arranged such that they protrude from the walls of the reactor in a substantially horizontal direction. The presence of said injection means could cause undesirable turbulence and serious risk of fouling due to the creation of dead spots in the vicinity of the nozzles or similar injection means. Another drawback of this process is due to the fact that additional equipment is required in the recycle line for separating the condensed liquid from the gas phase, in particular cyclone separators, demister type gas-liquid separators or liquid scrubbers.
Furthermore, a pump must be provided downstream the separator in order to allow the injection of the separated liquid along the axis of fluidized bed. As a consequence, the recycle system described in this patent increases the plant costs and the complexity of the plant setup.
Also the process of US 6,306,91 requires a separation step wherein at least part of the condensed liquid is separated from the gas phase by means of a separator.
According to the teaching of this patent, the separated liquid is transferred by a pump to the reactor and introduced peripherally in the upper portion of the fluidized bed at a location in proximity of the reactor walls. A film of liquid is formed which flows downward along the reactor walls. The vaporization of said liquid film cools the upper region of the fluidized bed without causing an undesirable turbulence in the central core region of the fluidized bed.
The process described in this patent improves the level of cooling of the fluidized bed, however also in this case both the gas/liquid separator and the pump along the recycle line increase the plant costs and the complexity of the plant setup.
According to EP X25 204, the gas/liquid mixture obtained by cooling the recycle stream is transferred to the bottom of a fluidized bed reactor, where the condensed liquid is separated from the gaseous stream in a separator which is integral with the fluidized bed reactor. The liquid is withdrawn from the bottom of said integral separator and is introduced into the lower part of the fluidized bed. Also this process requires the use of injection means, preferably nozzles, arranged so as to protrude substantially vertically into the fluidized bed or to protrude from the walls of the reactor in a substantially horizontal direction. The presence of said injection means can cause undesirable turbulence and serious risk of fouling due to the creation of dead spots in the vicinity of the nozzles or other injection means. Furthermore, also this process requires the presence of a pump, downstream the integral separator, for introducing the condensed liquid inside the fluidized bed and for maintaining a continuous circulation and stirring of liquid at the bottom of the integral separator.
It would be desirable to improve the process described in EP 825 204 by avoiding the use of liquid injection means directly protruding into the fluidized bed of polymer particles and, at the same time, simplifying the equipment involved in the recycle line.
It has now been found that a particular arrangement in the recycle line of the gas/liquid mixture allows to obtain a more effective cooling of a fluidized bed reactor with the advantages of reducing the complexity of the plant setup and avoiding the use of injection means directly protruding into the fluidized bed.
It is an object of the present invention a continuous process for the olefin polymerization in a fluidized bed reactor, said process comprising continuously passing a gaseous stream comprising one or more a olefin monomers through the fluidized bed in the presence of a polymerization catalyst under reactive conditions, withdrawing polymeric product and unreacted fluids from the reactor, cooling part of said unreacted fluids below the dew point to form a two-phase mixture of gas and condensed liquid and reintroducing said two-phase mixture into the reactor, the process being characterized in that:
said two-phase mixture is reintroduced under the distribution plate of the reactor so that a part of condensed liquid is separated from the gas and is successively fed above the fluidized bed through an external pipe connecting the bottom of the reactor to a point situated above the upper limit of the fluidized bed of polymer particles.
In the present invention the term "external pipe" is referred to a pipe running outside the fluidized bed reactor, the inlet of said pipe being placed at the bottom end of the reactor, the outlet of said pipe being placed above the fluidized bed of polymer particles.
According to an embodiment of the present invention, the two-phase mixture formed by cooling the unreacted fluids at a temperature below the dew point is reintroduced into the fluidized bed reactor along a direction which is tangential to the reactor walls. Due to this tangential inlet, a part of condensed liquid is separated from the gas by a "centrifugal effect" involved in the zone underlying the distribution plate. Generally, the inlet point of the two-phase mixture into the reactor is situated close to and just below the distribution plate in order to exploit all the space underlying the distribution plate to carry out the above separation.
According to another embodiment, the above separation is achieved by means of one or more baffles placed near the point of reintroduction of the two-phase mixture into the reactor. In this case, a part of condensed liquid is separated from the gas by coalescence of liquid droplets on said baffles and consequent fall by gravity.
In both the embodiments, the separated liquid collects at the bottom of the zone underlying the distribution plate before entering the external pipe. The amount of liquid entering the external pipe is generally comprised in the range of from 20 to 50~Jo by weight of the total condensed liquid. On the other hand, the remaining part of condensed liquid, generally comprised between 50% and ~0% by weight of the total condensed liquid, enters the fluidized bed passing through the slots of the distribution plate.
~nly a partial and raw separation of the liquid from the gas is carried out in the reactor zone underlying the distribution plate, so that a two-phase mixture enriched in liquid collects in proximity of the inlet of the external pipe and runs through said pipe, while a two-phase mixture enriched in gas passes through the distribution plate. 'The latter provides the fluidizing gas needed to keep the polymer bed in a fluidization state.
Many advantages can be accomplished by carrying out the process of the invention. In the first place, the introduction of condensed liquid above the fluidized bed improves the cooling of the upper region of the fluidized bed without causing any turbulence and interference with the fluidization conditions of the polymer bed.
Simultaneously, the remaining part of condensed liquid moves upwards through the distribution plate so as to effect a good cooling of the lower region of the bed. In order to obtain these advantages, it is essential to arrange a pipe comlecting the bottom of the reactor to a region of the reactor situated over the fluidized bed.
According to the present invention, the liquid flows upward in the external pipe without requiring pumping devices. In fact, the pressure gradient 0p existing between the zone underlying the distribution plate and the zone overlying the polymer fluidized bed causes freely the fluid to flow upwards along said pipe. In a manner unknown in the prior art embodiments said pressure gradient, which is made available by the recycle compressor, can be exploited to introduce the condensed liquid into the reactor without using additional pumps or similar devices.
As known, a fluidized bed reactor includes at its top a velocity reduction zone, which is generally of increased diameter compared to the diameter of the fluidized bed portion of the reactor. At the outlet of the external pipe, the liquid is preferably introduced into the fluidized bed reactor at a point situated above the upper limit of the fluidized bed and below the velocity reduction zone. The liquid can be simply poured onto the top of the fluidized bed or can be sprayed onto the top of the fluidized bed by means of injection devices, such as a plurality of nozzles. ~ne or more feeding points placed along a circumference overlying the fluidized bed can be provided.
It is preferred to operate in such a way that an annular flow of liquid is established inside the external pipe, while the central section thereof is preferably occupied by the upward flow of gas. By so operating, the liquid strictly adheres to the walls of the pipe so as to reduce the probability of clogging the pipe. In order to form said liquid annular film, the diameter of the external pipe should be suitably selected taking into account the liquid flow rate and the pressure gradient 0p existing between the inlet and the outlet of the external pipe. It has been found that the formation of said liquid annular flow is favoured when the liquid entering the external pipe is in an amount comprised from 10 to 20% by weight with respect to the amount of gas entering said pipe. As regards the diameter of the external pipe, this parameter is generally selected at a value of less than 0,15 DR, where DR is the diameter of the fluidized bed reactor. Above this upper limit, an excessive amount of gas enters the external pipe and, as a consequence, the gas passing through the distribution plate is not enough to support the fluidized bed of polymer. A suitable range for the diameter of the external pipe is from 0,01 to 0,15 DR, preferably from 0,02 to 0,0~ DR.
A further advantage of the invention is that the centrifugal effect involved by the tangential inlet of the recycle stream favours a concentration of the recycled "fines" at the bottom part of the reactor, so that most of the fines are forced to run the external pipe.
As a consequence, the process of the invention allows to by-pass the "fines" to the upper region of the fluidized bed reactor, thereby minimizing the amount of fines discharged via the product discharge valve located in the bottom region of the fluidized bed reactor. By doing so, the catalyst yield can be increased.
According to the invention, the gaseous stream which is continuously passed through the fluidized bed comprises one or more o~-olefin monomers. Suitable oc-olefin monomers are those of formula C~I2=CPIR, where I~ is hydrogen or a hydrocarbon radical having 1-12 car-bon atoms. Said gaseous stream can also include one or more alkanes or cycloalkanes as inert condensable gases. Preferably C4-C8 alkanes or cycloalkanes are used as inert condensable gases, in particular butane, pentane or hexane.
Generally, the recycle stream is cooled at a temperature under the dew point to a such extent that it is formed an amount of condensed liquid not exceeding 20% by weight of the total amount of liquid and gas. Preferably, the amount of condensed liquid does not exceed 12% by weight of the total amount of liquid and gas. The condensed liquid comes from the condensable monomers, e.g. propylene, butene-1, hexene-1, octene and the inert condensable gases, e.g. propane, butane, pentane or hexane.
The present invention is now described in detail with reference to the attached Figures 1-2, which are given for illustrative purpose not limiting the scope of the invention.
Fig. 1 shows a fluidized bed reactor comprising a reactor body 1 including a fluidized bed 2 of polymer, a fluidization plate 3 and a velocity reduction zone 4. The velocity reduction zone 4 is generally of increased diameter compared to the diameter of the fluidized bed portion of the reactor. The gaseous stream leaving the top of the velocity reduction zone 4 comprises, besides the unreacted monomers, also inert condensable gases, such as isopentane, as well as inert non-condensable gases, such as nitrogen. Said gaseous stream is compressed, cooled and recycled to the bottom of the fluidized bed reactor:
from the top of the velocity reduction zone 4 the gaseous stream is transferred via recycle line 5 to a compressor 7 and then to a heat exchanger 8. If appropriate, the recycle line 5 is equipped with a line 6 for feeding monomers, molecular weight regulators and, optionally inert gases. Passing through the heat exchanger ~, the gaseous stream is cooled below its dew point to form a two-phase mixture of gas and condensed liquid. Said two-phase mixture obtained at the outlet of the heat exchanger ~ is transferred to the bottom of the fluidized bed reactor via line 9. The inlet point of line 9 in the reactor is situated just below the distribution plate 3 and the direction of the inlet of said line 9 is tangential to the reactor wall. Said tangential inlet favours a "centrifugal effect" in the zone underlying the distribution plate 3 so that part of the liquid contained in the two-phase mixture is collected at the bottom part of said zone. As a consequence, a liquid/gas mixture enriched in liquid flows through the external pipe 10, while a liquidlgas mixture enriched in gas passes through the slots of the distribution plate 3. In this way an amount of upwardly flowing gas sufficient to maintain the bed in a fluidized condition is ensured.
The inlet of the external pipe 10 is placed at the bottom end of the fluidized bed reactor while the outlet of the pipe 10 is situated above the upper limit of the fluidized bed 2 and below the velocity reduction zone 4. No pumping devices are required to guarantee the flow of condensed liquid upwardly into the external pipe 10. At the outlet of the external pipe 10, the liquid is sprayed onto the top of the fluidized bed 2 by means of injection devices (not shown).
Generally, the various catalyst components are fed to the reactor through a line 11 that is preferably placed in the lower part of the fluidized bed 2. The polymer can be discharged through a line 12 placed at the bottom of the fluidized bed 2. Make-up monomers can be also introduced into the reactor in either liquid or gaseous form via line 13.
Fig. 2 is a sectional view of the reactor body 1 at a level situated just below the distribution plate 3 in correspondence of the inlet point of line 9 in the reactor: as shown, the direction of the inlet of line 9 is tangential to the reactor wall.
The process of the invention is operated with a gas velocity in the fluidised bed which must be greater or equal to that required for the fluidisation of the bed. The polymerisation is preferably carried out by using a gas velocity in the range 40 to 100 cm/sec, more preferably 50 to ~0 cm/sec. The distribution plate 3 can be of conventional design, for instance, a flat or dished plate perforated by a plurality of slots distributed more or less uniformly across its surface. Slots of rectangular shape and having a large opening, for instance 12 x 40 mm, are preferably adopted in the present invention: these slots foster the passage of a gas flow containing droplets of entrained liquid.
As it can be easily understood from the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the remarkable advantages of the process of the invention in term of reactor cooling are obtained simplifying the equipment arranged along the recycle line, which comprises only a compressor and a heat exchanger, and avoiding the use of injection means of condensed liquid directly protruding into the fluidized bed.
The process according to the present invention is particularly suitable for the manufacture of polymers or copolymers of a-olefins, such as high density polyethylene (HDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), polypropylene (PP), random copolymers (RACO) of ethylene and propylene, and of ethylene or propylene with other a-olefins, ethylene-propylene rubbers (EPR), ethylene-propylene-dime rubbers (EPDM), heterophasic copolymers (HECO).
The polymerization is generally carned out at a pressure of between 0.5 and 6 MPa and at a temperature of between 30 and 130°C. For instance, for LLDPE production the temperature is suitably in the range 80-90°C and for HDPE the temperature is typically 85-105°C depending on the activity of the catalyst system.
The polymerization process herewith described is not restricted to the use of any particular family of polymerization catalysts. The invention is useful in any exothermic polymerization reaction employing any catalyst, whether it is supported or unsupported, and regardless of whether it is in pre-polymerized form.
The polymerization reaction may be carried out in the presence of a catalyst system of the ~iegler-~Tatta type. ~iegler-IVatta catalyst systems are solid catalyst systems comprising the reaction product of A) a solid component comprising a titanium compound supported on a magnesium halide in active form and optionally an electron donor compound (inside donor);
E) an alkyl aluminum compound, optionally in the presence of an electron donor compound (outside donor).
Suitable titanium compounds are Ti halides (such as TiCl4, TiCl3), Ti alcoholates, Ti haloalcoholates. Such high-activity catalyst systems are capable of producing large amounts of polymer in a relatively short time avoiding the step of removing catalyst residues from the polymer.
Other useful catalysts are the vanadium-based catalysts, which comprise the reaction product of a vanadium compound with an aluminum compound, optionally in the presence of a halogenated organic compound. Optionally the vanadium compound can be supported on an inorganic earner, such as silica, alumina, magnesium chloride. Suitable vanadium compounds are VCl4, VCl3, VOC13, vanadium acetyl acetonate.
Other suitable catalysts are single site catalysts, i.e. compounds of a metal belonging to groups IIIA to VIIIA (ICTPAC notation) of the Periodic Table of the Elements, including elements belonging to the group of the rare earth, linked with a ~ bond to one or more cyclopentadienyl type rings, utilized with a suitable activating compound, generally an alumoxane, such as those described in EP 129 36~. As an example of single site catalysts, the "constrained geometry" catalysts can be used, such as those disclosed in EP 416 815.
Well-known constrained geometry catalysts are described in EP-A-0 416 815, EP-436, EP-A-0 671 404, EP-A-0 643 066 and WO-A-91/04257. Also Metallocene complexes can be cited as single-site catalysts, such as those described in WO 98/22486, 6, USP 5,556,928, WO 96/22995, EP-4.85822, EP-485820, USP 5,324,800 and EP-A-0 129 368. Heterocyclic metallocenes, such as those described in WO
98/22486 and WO 99/24446, can be also used.
Other useful catalysts are those based on chromium compounds, such as chromium oxide on silica, also known as Phillips catalysts.
The catalyst may suitably be employed in the form of a pre-polymer powder prepared beforehand during a pre-polymerization stage with the aid of a catalyst as described above.
The pre-polymerization may be carned out by any suitable process, for example, polymerization in a liquid hydrocarbon diluent or in the gas phase using a batch process, a semi-continuos process or a continuos process.


The nation’s deer, which have been blamed for causing huge damage to crops and forests, could number 5 million by fiscal 2025 — nearly double the figure in fiscal 2011 — if the capture rate remains unchanged, estimates by the Environment Ministry show.
The first projections of their kind, reported Wednesday at a ministry panel meeting, showed that the number of wild deer in fiscal 2011 stood at some 2.61 million.
Around 270,000 of the animals were caught that year, and the ministry used these figures to conduct simulations.
The projections indicate that if the capture rate remains at the 2011 level, the deer population will increase to 5 million in 2025. But if the rate increases 2.2-fold, the population will drop to 1.71 million, and if it rises 2.9-fold, deer numbers will fall to 840,000.
Behind the rapid increase in wild deer is a declining number of hunters amid Japan’s aging society. The number of licensed hunters, which stood at around 290,000 in fiscal 1989, had dropped to 190,000 by 2010. To alleviate the damage, the ministry is considering introducing a new system under which registered groups could conduct large-scale hunts.
Financial losses from deer-related damage to agriculture amounted to ¥8.3 billion in fiscal 2011, more than double the ¥3.9 billion reported in 2005.
In addition to the shrinking number of hunters, a ministry official explained that the changing environment that deer inhabit may also be a factor.
“Deer have a high reproductive capacity and live in areas where there are now no natural enemies such as wolves. Mild winters in recent years could have further reduced deer deaths due to food shortages,” the official said.
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Seniors who are enrolled in both Medicare and Medicaid are at risk for experiencing greater worsening of functional status following ICU hospitalization, according to research presented at ATS 2021.
Researchers sought to examine the association between socioeconomic disadvantage (indicated by dual eligibility for both Medicare and Medicaid), and functional decline in seniors following ICU hospitalization. They found that seniors eligible for Medicaid had 60% more disabilities compared to those who did not have Medicaid. After adjusting for variables such as age, gender, education and living alone, Dual Medicare-Medicaid status was still associated with a 30% increase in the number of post-ICU disabilities compared with those who did not have Medicaid.
“There are several possible explanations for our findings,” said Snigdha Jain, MD, postdoctoral fellow, Yale University School of Medicine. “Dual-eligible beneficiaries are often cared for in nursing homes of worse quality and receive home health services from agencies that are ranked lower in quality. In addition, due to the different coverage and payment policies between Medicare and Medicaid, dual-eligible beneficiaries often receive fragmented care delivery and less effective post-acute care. Furthermore, besides differences in post-discharge recovery care, worse in-hospital care could also contribute to this disparity since practices in ICU care like early physical therapy and delirium prevention can affect downstream changes in function.”
The researchers identified community-dwelling older adults in the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS), a nationally representative survey of Medicare beneficiaries age 65 and older, who underwent annual assessments of disability in seven functional activities. Statistical tests were used to evaluate the association between dual eligibility and the self-reported number of disabilities (0-7) following ICU discharge.
They found that dual-eligible beneficiaries were more frequently men, of minority race, who had less than high school level education, and lived alone, compared with those without Medicaid. “This has important policy implications,” said Dr. Jain. “The increase in disability and dementia among dual-eligible beneficiaries after ICU hospitalizations is likely to further drive up their high healthcare use and expenditure.
In addition, the high and inadequately met need of long-term support services among dual-eligible seniors can potentially increase after ICU hospitalization, having implications for the Medicaid program that supports the cost of these services.”
According to the authors, this study highlights the need to examine care coordination and post-acute care for seniors on Medicare and Medicaid, specifically related to ICU hospitalizations.

domain: health


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More often than not these days I’m hired to shoot an ad campaign that just seems to fit my personality and style. My recent Boone Tourism shoot is just one of those assignments. Clean Design in Raleigh, NC approached me with the following campaign concept and I was immediately on board. It’s a little quirky (like me) and at the same time demands a heightened degree of vision, style and finesse. It was critically important that the end photos were visually alluring and at the same time have an element of surprise that completed the concept.
“If you need a photographer who can take a campaign concept you love and execute it so brilliantly it becomes the centerpiece of your portfolio, then Jimmy’s the guy. That’s what he did for our Boone, North Carolina tourism campaign. He truly understands what an image needs to say, and he makes it happen with visual eloquence.”
– Scott Scaggs, VP Partner / Creative Director, Clean Design
Client: Boone, North Carolina Tourism
Agency: Clean Design
VP Partner / Creative Director: Scott Scaggs
Sr. Designer: Alice Brady
Copywriter: Mary Webster


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Camping with the Library: Stories, Singing, and Smores.
Saturday, October 5, 2019
Miss Brittany from our Cold Spring Branch will read stories and lead a sing a long as we make everyone’s favorite camping treat Smores!
This program will take place at A.J. Jolly’s campsite 5-15.
This program is part of the library’s Camping with the Library program at A.J. Jolly, however you must register for programs individually. It is not necessary to camp with the library to attend this program, however for those interested in camping you may view that event listing here: https://www.cc-pl.org/events/camping-with-the-library-campsite
We want to thank A.J. Jolly Park for helping to make this event possible!

domain: library


› Angle head / Speed increaser
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It multiplies the spindle speed by 6 times.
The low heat generation design greatly reduces the spindle's expansion.
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The long nose design is optimal for die & mold.
Copyright © 2000-2017 BIG DAISHOWA SEIKI CO., LTD. All rights reserved.


The worlds demand for perishables products is growing exponentially and the reefer trade is now outpacing the overall container trade. For the first time since the inception of the containerized trade reefer containers rates have surpassed and outperformed the dry rates. Here at Commodity Forwarders Inc., we have seen an upward trend towards increased reefer traffic as the carriers offer better and more sophisticated reefer units to the trade. At the same time the use of specialized reefer vessels is shifting to containers.
Commodities that were only sent air freight several years ago are now being sent by ocean freight. Avocados, Blueberries, and Lettuce are just a few of the commodities that shipper’s favor moving via ocean. As the Chinese and Indian middle class grow, so does their demand for perishables products. In particular the Europe to China market has seen an upsurge of perishable reefer containers moving. The only dark spot on the forecast are the trade disputes, which will account for a slowing in the growth of the reefer market anticipated at 3.6 % over the next 5 years. Many larger NVOCC’s have taken notice of this trend and are trying to break into this already competitive market.
In fact, according to Loadstar, the container markets are moving further apart as reefer rates have risen 3% over the last year and a half, while dry boxes have seen their rates fall 14% in the same time. “This demonstrates despite broader weakness in the container market, reefer rates have held, rewarding carriers that have chosen to invest in the cargo segment,” says a report by Drewery. “Meanwhile, time charter rates for specialist reefer vessels recovered in 2017 from the previous year’s lows but have since come under pressure and are expected to remain so.”
It is of the utmost importance to CFI that we remain up to date on the most crucial data that impacts our customers and their cargo. We continue to monitor the availability, price, fluctuations and information available regarding both the commodities they ship and the equipment necessary to the safe and proper care of those commodities. If you have questions or concerns regarding your perishable cargo or the containers necessary to ship, don’t hesitate to contact your CFI representative for assistance and guidance.


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PHILADELPHIA -- The University of Pennsylvania has received a $15 million gift from an anonymous donor to renovate the historic Arts, Research and Culture House, to create a center for campus life that builds on the cultural diversity of Penn students and offers a rich intellectual and social experience for the entire University community.
The building, located at 36th Street and Locust Walk in the heart of Penn’s campus, was built in 1928 and is listed in the Pennsylvania Register of Historic Places. It currently houses three cultural resource centers, La Casa Latina, Makuu: The Black Cultural Center and the Pan Asian American Community House; as well as the Center for Undergraduate Research and Fellowships; a classroom; an auditorium; and community spaces.
“This incredibly generous gift will transform a beloved landmark for new generations of students and help to ensure that arts, culture and undergraduate student research at Penn continue to thrive,” Penn President Amy Gutmann said. “The renovated ARCH building will be a campus hub, offering our students intellectual and artistic stimulation, state-of-the-art technology and spots to study, as well as opportunities to engage in diverse activities that define and distinguish the Penn experience. By providing this gift, our donor will enable us to greatly enhance the quality of the student experience.”
The renovation is designed to create a center that is used by a variety of groups from all over campus and introduce an even wider circle of students and Penn community members to the ARCH. When this project is completed in spring 2014, the ARCH will be a harmony of past and present -- beautiful architectural details enhanced by state-of-the-art technology.
New plans call for an outdoor terrace on Locust Walk and an indoor café with a nearby lounge and gallery. The new open plan for the first floor contains a common “living room” with comfortable seating, paneling, stone fireplaces and leaded glass windows that reflect the building’s historic provenance.
“We envision that this renovation will create a center that is used by a variety of groups from all over campus and will introduce an even wider circle of students and Penn community members to the ARCH,” Penn Provost Vincent Price said. “Penn students are eclectic, busy and plugged in. This reconfigured space will provide a variety of avenues in which they can explore interests and connect with other students.”
As part of the renovation the second-floor auditorium will serve as a premier classroom for large lecture courses of as many as 150 students. The space will contain an interactive teaching-learning environment where multi-media, access to digital information and interconnectivity is fully integrated. In the evening, the auditorium will be utilized for lectures, receptions, recitals and other programs.
Penn’s Center for Undergraduate Research and Fellowships is the University’s primary resource for undergraduate research, currently serving some 1,300 students. As part of the renovation, CURF will occupy larger, modernized spaces, enabling the program to accommodate more students.
The renovation of the ARCH building is a core priority of Penn’s Making History Campaign.
The project is based on a feasibility study conducted by architectural firm Saylor Gregg Architects. Saylor Gregg completed the historic renovations to Penn’s Fisher-Bennett Hall in 2006 and has extensive experience integrating leading-edge technology into historic buildings.

domain: design


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Miton’s multi-asset team has said it is likely to add to its renewable energy exposure, given the sector’s “compelling” price movements.
The team, headed by David Jane, said a long-term “inflection point” might be approaching in the renewables sphere.
“The most compelling metric is the cost of key renewable technologies, including photovoltaic solar and onshore wind generation, continuing to decline,” Mr Jane said.
But the manager added “a key obstacle to this is whether renewable energies are still an attractive investment after the collapse in the oil price in the second half of last year”.
Mr Jane said the price of renewable energy was more predictable than oil, given it usually offered greater security in terms of its source and was not dependent on “often unstable oil producing regions”.
“It is also important to recall the long-term environmental objective of limiting global temperature rises to below two degrees centigrade and how this requires a significant reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, a cost that is currently externalised but being increasingly considered,” he said.

domain: news


3 new projects from South East Europe get funding from the IFCD
The Intergovernmental Committee for the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, at its sixth Ordinary Session (Paris, 10-14 December 2012), approved the applications submitted by 3 cultural institutions from Croatia, Montenegro and The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, and decided upon their financial support from the International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD), a multi-donor Fund established under Article 18 of the 2005 Convention with the purpose to promote sustainable development and poverty reduction in developing and least-developed countries that are Parties to the Convention.
The Intergovernmental Committee approved 13 projects to be implemented in 12 developing countries for more than US$1 million in funding. Projects cover a wide range of activities – from capacity-building and cultural mapping to policy analysis and development, as well as entrepreneurship support and cultural industries consolidation. The IFCD is unique in that a majority of its funds go to support the work of non-governmental organizations working locally in the field of cultural policy and cultural industries.
The countries or INGO from South East Europe to benefit from the IFCD are Croatia for the project titled "Building the creative city: developing Zagreb's cultural industries"; Montenegro for the project "Cultural industries as drivers of development in Montenegro and the Balkans"; and finally, The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia for "Measuring the economic contribution of the audiovisual industry in FYROM".
Croatia ● Institute for International Relations ● State Party ● US$ 82,988
The Institute for International Relations (IMO), a prominent research institute in the fields of international relations and sustainable development in Croatia, proposes to: 1) map the potential of cultural industries in the city; 2) contribute to the formulation of cultural and economic policies in collaboration with local authorities through consultation meetings; 3) carry out capacity-building trainings and networking activities, including workshops and exchange sessions, to help implement the cultural policies adopted and 4) put in place a media campaign to enhance the visibility of Zagreb’s cultural industries.
Montenegro ● Association of Fine Arts of Montenegro ● NGO ● US$ 88,705
The Association of Fine Arts of Montenegro (AFAM) is a professional organization of artists and creators in Montenegro. Its project aims to contribute to improved working conditions for creators and proposes to improve cultural cooperation in the region by 1) developing network building activities and a study tour and 2) implementing awareness-raising activities, such as an exhibition and a roundtable, to promote the region’s cultural goods and services.
The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia ● School of Journalism and Public Relations - UNESCO Chair in Media, Dialogue and Mutual Understanding ● NGO ● US$ 74,740
The School of Journalism and Public Relations – UNESCO Chair in Media, Dialogue and Mutual Understanding, a non-profit higher education institution based in Skopje, proposes to map the audiovisual industry in The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia through questionnaires and interviews with relevant stakeholders, identify best practices and innovative experiences in the sector and explore the potential of the audiovisual industry to boost local and regional development through the organization of training workshops and exchange sessions. Their ultimate goal is to use the results to inform the forthcoming National Strategic Plan for the Audiovisual Sector in the country planned for the period 2013-2014.
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Modern Sacred Architecture in Ireland and Germany, 9-11 Oct., 2014
Supported by University College Dublin and Goethe-Institut Irland
Co-organised by Kathleen James-Chakraborty (UCD) and Lisa Godson (NCAD)
Themes included Modern German and Irish churches, Contemporary Mosque and Synagogue design, the conversion and re-use of sacred buildings.
Speakers included Kathleen James Chakraborty, Niall McLaughlin, Amandus Sattler, Christian Welzbacher, Lisa Godson, Ellen Rowley, Carole Pollard and Sandra O’Connell.


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WHAT’S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT? by Steffi Alte, Saskia Te Nicklin & Patrícia J. Reis
WHAT’S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT?
by Steffi Alte, Saskia Te Nicklin & Patrícia J. Reis
Opening: 29.9.2023, 19h
Midd opening: 14.10.2023, 19h
Finissage: 3.11.2023, 19h
Exhibition duration: 30.9 – 3.11.2023
Opening hours: Every Saturday from 14h to 18th
About the exhibition:
“A culture of domination is anti-love. It requires violence to sustain itself. To choose love is to go against the prevailing values of the culture. Many people feel unable to love either themselves or others because they do not know what love is.” Bell Hooks (1994)
In the light of the current situation deeply shaped by conflicts and disasters caused by anthropocentric politics, actions and practices, we ask ourselves the question: “What’s love got to do with it?”
In her writings Bell Hooks identifies Love as a blind spot within the human struggle for liberation, from oppression and exploitation. The white male supremacist domination of the planet attributed to love becoming a symptom of weakness, that love has no value. We might have forgotten what love really is or perhaps we’ve never really understood its meaning since it became capitalized and traded as a commodity-chain, sold as desire that can and should be consumed at a fast pace. Love in its true meaning is something that people might feel ashamed to relate with, as an old-fashioned concept, in the same way Tina Turner declined love in her musical success hit in 1984.
Loving is a verb that demands for action and for choice and can become an important tool to decolonize and to demystify systems of oppression. We need to critically question our position within the planet of beings and things. To love is to care for the others. Love is rooted in community, in exchange and democratic choices. In order to recover love we need social changes rooted in new love ethics. The exhibition “What’s love got to do with it?” aims to be an essay and a tribute to new love politics acknowledging caring as a crucial facet of Love for creating, repairing, and empowering our relations with the world.
Photo © Janine Schranz
With the kind support of:
About Steffi Alte, Saskia Te Nicklin & Patrícia J. Reis
Steffi Alte (*1980 (D)) is an installation and media artist. Based in Vienna (AT), she employs various formats and media to explore the mutual relationship between animals, humans, and other life forms. In her cinematic works, Steffi Alte continually recombines her sculptural and performative practices. At this intersection of performance, object, and the camera's gaze, she builds tensions and narratives rooted in her fundamental interest in experimentation.
Steffi Alte graduated in 2011 under the supervision of Heimo Zobernig at the Academy of Fine Arts Vienna. Since 2018, she has been working as an assistant in the Drawing Department at the Academy.
Saskia Te Nicklin
(*1979, Copenhagen) works with mixed media in her paintings and drawings. For the show, Saskia Te Nicklin’s charcoal drawings on the walls show beings and plants interacting with each other. The interactions could be perceived as lying in a gray-zone between caring and abuse, where conform roles change. On the floor, an old collection of insects and lizards are being carried around on a conveyor belt in an endless circle, reminding us of our mortality and consumerism. Some recent shows include, Wonnerth Dejaco, Den Frie Centre of Contemporary Art, Zina Gallery and Kunstraum Schwaz.
Patrícia J. Reis
(*1981, Lisbon) is a media-installation artist whose practice encompasses different formats and media to question and expand human-machine affinities through new materialism and feminist hacking lenses. In her installations she often appeals to the visitor’s sensoriality in an intimate and sensual way, encouraging them to become active participants. Her work was just recently exhibited at the Havana Biennial in Cuba, at the Kunstraum pro art, Hallein and at the Group Show „RGB EXPIRA: 2022“, Castelo e Paço dos Condes, Ourém, Portugal. In 2021 was awarded with the Outstanding Artist Award in Media Art by the Austrian Chancellery for Culture.


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why regulate plastic bags?
Plastic bags are harmful to the environment and costly to taxpayers. Regulation minimizes windblown litter, marine impacts, issues with waste management, and more.
From the blog
Jennie Romer explains why the flaws of New York State’s new Bag Waste Reduction Act conflict with recommended practice.
New York environmental organizations and advocates recently sent a letter to Governor Cuomo urging him to amend the plastic bag ban proposed in his executive budget
A Fast Company World Changing Idea
New York City Residents use and discard about 10 billion plastic bags every year. The city is in serious need of a plastic bag law. We teamed up with Papel & Caneta to create an award winning video about the issue, featuring bodega owners from the 5 NYC boroughs. Watch and share the #VoteWithYourTote video today, then learn more about how to get involved.


In a surprise announcement at the Tokyo Auto Show, Mazda revealed that it intends to resurrect the iconic rotary engine, previewing the possibility in a new concept car that also showcases an evolution of the brand’s current design language.
Dubbed the RX-Vision concept, it shares some of its basic profile with the departed RX-8 coupe. Unlike the RX-8, the RX-Vision did not inherit that model’s awkward styling and incorporates many of the cues that made their initial debut on the Kodo concept. This is especially true when viewing the front fascia which adopts the concept’s shield shaped grille as well as its thin headlights. The rear fascia features four round taillamps that incorporate a razor thin spoiler with dual round exhaust tips rounding out the package. Overall it is a massive improvement over the RX-8 while also evoking memories of the RX-7 at the same time.
The interior of the RX-Vision was designed with driver-centric ergonomics and performance in mind with seating for only two passengers available. The cabin itself features only the bare essentials, and tosses many typical luxury features to the curb. Mazda designers opted for a retro theme with a meaty deep dish steering wheel and three pod gauge cluster loudly broadcasting its performance intent. A slick metal gear shifter rises from the center stack while leather door pulls substitute for formal door handles in a bid to shed precious ounces. The interior features red and black upholstery with subtle splashes of carbon fiber adding a dash of contrast to the overall aesthetics.
Details about the performance hardware for the RX-Vision are a little murky with Mazda opting to keep many technical aspects under wraps. What we do know is that the engine is an evolution of the brand’s iconic rotary engine dubbed the SkyActiv-R. It’s unknown how many rotors it has, nor the overall displacement of the engine itself. But the use of SkyActiv technology would seem to suggest that the engine will produce better fuel economy and fewer emissions than its predecessors. Mazda was also quick to point out that development of the new rotary is still moving forward, and shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon.
After it serves its time under the lights in Tokyo, look for this concept to possibly make its debut in the U.S. at either the Los Angeles Auto Show, or the North American International Auto show in January.


New Delhi: US President-elect Donald Trump addressed the media for the first time since winning 2016 presidential elections. In his address, Trump said he is picking VA undersecretary David Shulkin to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The US President-elect conceded that Russia was behind the hacking of Democratic institutions during the presidential election.
Calling it a `blot’ on Russia’s record, Trump said that intelligence agencies may have leaked dossier on his ties with the country.
Trump said that he has “no deals, no loans, no nothing” with Russia on the heels of the publication of an unverified report that alleged Moscow has supported him for years.
Trump tweeted that Russia “has never tried to use leverage over me. I have nothing to do with Russia — no deals, no loans, no nothing!”
Here are the highlights:
* It’s not a fence, it’s a wall, says Trump on Mexico wall
* Obamacare is a complete and total disaster, says Trump
* Trump says his business empire would be run by 2 sons and they won’t discuss issues with him
* As a president, I could run the Trump organisation and run the country, I would do a good job, but I wouldn’t do that, says Trump.
* President-elect Donald Trump says he picks VA undersecretary David Shulkin to lead Department of Veterans Affairs.
* Donald Trump says intelligence agencies may have leaked dossier on his ties to Russia, says it would be `blot’ on their record.


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Elevate your style with our captivating bronze-colored Bee Pendant, a stunning piece of jewelry that exudes elegance and nature-inspired charm.
This exquisite pendant features a beautifully crafted bee design in a rich, bronze-colored finish. Measuring 2.9×4.5cm, it’s the perfect size to make a statement while still remaining versatile enough to complement a variety of outfits and occasions. Let this pendant become the centerpiece of your jewelry collection, adding a touch of sophistication and whimsy to your ensemble.
The intricate details of the bee pendant showcase the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into its creation. From the delicate wings to the intricate body, each element is carefully crafted to capture the grace and beauty of these remarkable creatures.
Crafted with high-quality materials, this bee pendant is designed to stand the test of time. Its durable construction ensures that you can enjoy its beauty for years to come, making it a cherished keepsake that can be passed down through generations.
Versatile and eye-catching, this bronze-colored bee pendant is suitable for a range of occasions. Whether you’re attending a formal event, going out for a casual outing, or simply want to add a touch of nature-inspired elegance to your everyday attire, this pendant will effortlessly enhance your style.
Additionally, this bee pendant makes for a thoughtful and meaningful gift. Whether you’re surprising a nature enthusiast, a lover of unique jewelry, or someone who appreciates the beauty of bees, this pendant is sure to impress. It’s a perfect gift for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion that calls for a touch of elegance and nature’s charm.
Indulge in the timeless beauty of our Bronze-Colored Bee Pendant and let the bee’s symbolism of hard work, community, and transformation inspire you. Wear it with pride and embrace the wonder of nature wherever you go.


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Jun 21, 2021
Trent surprised me with this beautiful rose! It’s perfect encouragement during my editing—especially since I’m working on the end of The Snow Queen. He saw the violet edging on the petals and knew I had to have it. Don’t miss the conclusion of the Snow Queen and the wrap of Season 3 this Friday!

domain: hobby


Dogecoin Co-Founder Calls for Calm Amid Price Drop
Billy Markus asked supporters to stay cool
The recent market volatility has left lot’s of doge holders worried. Dogecoin has been dropping under the recent market volatility last year
Billy Markus, Dogecoin co-founder, has asked crypto enthusiasts to remain cool in the face of the cryptocurrency failing to move in an upward trajectory in the new year. He asked holders to stop any crazy narratives, and toxic behaviors, citing that those traits could devalue the brand.
He mentioned that should the negative traits continue, companies will stop using dogecoin. He also added that Dogecoin investors will leave the toxic environment.
“It’s important to match your output with our goals,” he said. “Keep trying to be positive, kind, and fun, despite everything there is out there.”
Dogecoin has dropped since the start of the year. According to CoinMarket, Dogecoin was trading at a sizable loss from its ATH. For those who do not know, the Dogecoin was birthed in 2013 by Billy Markus and Jackson Palmer as a better and fun alternative to Bitcoin.
It started like a joke on the numerous fraud coins that came up at that time, and it takes lots of inspiration from the Shiba Inu meme that went viral a few years back.
Elon Musk has been a fan and supporter of Dogecoin. He has used his Twitter feed to show support for Dogecoin on numerous occasions.
Earlier this week, Musk tweeted that he will eat a McDonald’s Happy Meal if McDonald starts accepting Dogecoin as a form of payment. In addition, Musk announced that Tesla will accept Dogecoin for merchandise on a test basis.
“Tesla will make some merch buyable with Doge and see how it goes,” he said. Currently, Tesla sells merchandise like mini models of vehicles, belt buckles, Cyberquad (a quad bike for kids), and so on.
“The transaction value of Bitcoin is low and the cost per transaction is high. At least at a space level, it is suitable as a store of value. But fundamentally, Bitcoin is not a good substitute for transactional currency,” he had said in a recent interview. He added that even though Dogecoin was created as a meme, it is better suited for transactions. He has mentioned that when it comes to transactions per day Dogecoin was better “The total transaction flow that you do with Dogecoin is transactions per day has much higher potential than Bitcoin,” he was quoted as saying.


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I am importing MD5 meshes and anims. The problem is that with even just a few animated guys, the app starts to slow down really bad. Is this something inherent with the MD5 support? If I don't add the anim to the MD5Controller (so it is just rendering the mesh with no anim) it SCREAMS along. As soon as I start animating though I can maybe display 5 dudes before slowdown.
I dont know why this happens, I only have mild experience with jMonkey and md5 and 3d in general. When I load like 6 guys also in different jme instances and having each client for each player then I also get some weird slowdown, but I thought this just happens since I have 3 JME's running + eclipse + JGN server + 2 JGN clients on same computer. I have a good computer though.
You can try exporting the meshes and animations to binary by following a md5Importer example, what i've read it's supposed to boost loading time a lot, I havent tried it yet.
Btw, are you using md5Importer?


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In the ever-evolving world of online gaming, creating a successful game that captures the hearts and minds of players is a daunting task. While trends come and go, there are fundamental principles that underpin the success of any online game. Understanding these principles is essential for game designers and developers who aspire to create engaging and enduring experiences for gamers.
1. Player-Centric Design
At the core of successful game design lies the player. A game should be designed with the player’s experience in mind, catering to their interests, motivations, and expectations. This means understanding what drives players to play games, what kind of challenges they enjoy, and what rewards they find satisfying.
2. Clear Goals and Objectives
Players need to know what they’re trying to achieve in a game. Clear goals and objectives provide direction and purpose, motivating players to engage with the game mechanics and progress through the experience. Whether it’s completing quests, defeating bosses, or achieving a high score, clear goals keep players engaged and invested in the game.
3. Balance Challenge and Skill
A well-designed game strikes a balance between challenge and skill. The game should be challenging enough to be engaging and rewarding, but not so difficult that it becomes frustrating or overwhelming. By gradually increasing the difficulty as players progress, the game maintains a sense of challenge and accomplishment.
4. Reward Systems and Feedback Loops
Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in game design. Reward systems provide players with feedback for their actions, reinforcing desired behaviors and motivating them to continue playing. Rewards can come in many forms, such as in-game currency, experience points, unlockable items, or social recognition.
5. Emergent Gameplay
Emergent gameplay arises from the interaction of game mechanics and player behavior. It refers to unexpected and unplanned situations that occur when players experiment with the game’s systems. Emergent gameplay adds an element of surprise and excitement to the game, making it more replayable and enjoyable.
6. Narrative and Immersion
A compelling narrative can elevate an online game qq alfa from mere entertainment to an immersive experience. A well-crafted story can draw players into the game world, connect them to the characters, and make them feel invested in the outcome. Immersion is created through a combination of storytelling, environmental design, and sound effects.
7. Accessibility and Inclusivity
Successful online games cater to a diverse range of players, including those with disabilities. Accessibility features, such as customizable controls, colorblind modes, and text-to-speech options, ensure that players of all abilities can participate and enjoy the game.
8. Aesthetics and Atmosphere
The visual and auditory elements of an online game play a significant role in creating a memorable and engaging experience. A cohesive art style, appealing character designs, and a fitting soundtrack all contribute to the game’s atmosphere and immersing players in the game world.
9. Interactivity and Agency
Players should feel like they have agency and control over their actions within the game world. Interactivity allows players to explore, interact with objects, and make decisions that affect the game’s progression. This sense of agency empowers players and makes them feel invested in the outcome.
10. Iteration and Playtesting
Game design is an iterative process that requires continuous feedback and refinement. Playtesting is essential for identifying and addressing any issues that may hinder the player experience. By gathering feedback from a diverse group of players, developers can refine the game’s mechanics, balance, and overall experience.
In conclusion, creating a successful online game requires a deep understanding of player motivation, game mechanics, and narrative

domain: entertainment


Johnson & Johnson Off Campus Drive 2022
Johnson & Johnson has released information for off campus drive 2022 for the position of Graduate Engineer Trainee for location Aurangabad/ Mumbai, India. The eligible candidates meets the requirement criteria those can check out the details of role and responsibilities, qualification, selection process and apply link from the given below. Fill form before the form get expired.
The combination of new technologies and your expertise enables amazing things to happen. Teams from J&J’s consumer business are creating digital tools to help people track the health of their skin. Those working in medical devices are 3-D printing artificial joints personalized for each patient, while researchers in pharmaceuticals use AI to discover lifesaving drugs. Imagine what the rest of our team of 134,000 people at 260 companies in more than 60 countries across the world is accomplishing. We redefine what it means to be a big company in today’s world.
Position – Graduate Engineer Trainee
|Company Name||Johnson & Johnson|
|Graduates batches||2020, 2021|
|Eligibility||B.E. / B.Tech/ M.Pharm|
|Job location||Aurangabad/ Mumbai|
|Job Type||Full Time|
|Salary- CTC||Not disclosed|
Job Description for Johnson & Johnson Off Campus Drive 2022
- To assist in planning & execution of preventive and corrective maintenance programs.
- To assist in planning & execution of calibration program.
- Lead technicians for machine troubleshooting, root cause analysis and implement effective countermeasures.
- Using Continuous Improvement (JJPS/Six sigma ) tools and methodologies to improve machine’s reliability, reduce downtime and maintenance cost.
- Design training material and provide training to peers and technicians.
- Work closely with Engineering team and maintain good working relationship with peers, quality and production staff to achieve the required reliability and performance of the machines to achieve manufacturing goals.
- Identify and implement cost reduction, quality, safety and ergonomic improvement ideas of limited scope.
- Investigate, gather, analyze data and implement solutions to improve processes.
- Engineering degree in Instrumentation/Control system/ Mechatronics/Electronics/ Electrical/Mechanical
- Good academics
- No Active backlog.
The Selection process of Johnson & Johnson includes the multiple round of interview.
- Online Assessment
- Multiple round of Technical Interview
- HR Interview
- Starting Date of Apply – 21/06/2022
- Last Date – N/A
- Test Date – Will be notified
How to Apply ?
Others Important Vacancies


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In today’s issue of women today, we look at women in extraordinary fields of employment. Is it true that a woman can’t do manual work?
Read on and find out. People always appreciate a hardworking woman who carries herself with pride in whatever she does. In this edition, we try to encourage women everywhere to seize the opportunities around them.
A true woman takes care of her self and the people around her. She is the backbone of the family. In this edition, we reinforce what we already know and that is women are loving and kind people with a desire to make others happy.
Do not be afraid to be yourself. Nobody can put you down unless you let them. Stand strong and tall and be the best that you can be. Do not underestimate yourself because God gave us all one and the same power. Be confident. Be smart. Be a woman!
Life can get slippery sometimes, but you just have to hang on. Do not let go even when you are clutching onto the last branch. Take your relationship, career, or whatever goal it is you are fighting to achieve one step at a time. Women today shows you just how you can do that.
Enjoy your reading!

domain: sociology


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Global online payments processor PayPal is finally dipping its feet in the blockchain pool following a recent foray to participate in a Series A funding of a blockchain startup.
PayPal has invested an undisclosed amount of money into Cambridge Blockchain, a startup seeking to use the distributed ledger technology to give users more control over their digital identities.
Despite the fact that neither PayPal nor Cambridge Blockchain is unwilling to share the details of the investment, a recent filing with the SEC has revealed that the startup raised as much as $3.5 million in this extension of a Series A funding round which began in May 2018. In its first round, it raised $7 million through Taiwan tech equipment manufacturer Foxconn’s HCM Capital.
According to Forbes, PayPal could be looking into ways of allowing its users to prove their identities without necessarily exposing their real identities to nefarious online hackers. Think about how Facebook or Google’s Login applications work. That way PayPal users will get to decide who gets to see the information that reveals their identities and also control how that information is used to verify them. A PayPal spokesperson speaking to Forbes said that,
“We made an investment in Cambridge Blockchain because it is applying blockchain for digital identity in a way that we believe could benefit financial services companies including PayPal.”
Prior to its investment on Cambridge Blockchain, PayPal has only had a fleeting interaction with the distributed ledger technology. Back in March last year, the $121 billion company filed for a patent for an innovation that would allow for blockchain scalability and introduce employee incentive system that will encourage participation through tokens issued on a blockchain.
Cambridge Blockchain revealed that it will use its capital mainly on attracting talent and on research and development. So far the company has 15 employees, with 11 based in Boston headquarters, another 3 in Paris and one in Taiwan working in collaboration with Foxconn in a number of early-stage projects. Speaking to Forbes, Cambridge Blockchain’s CEO, Matthew Commons said that,
“We envision a future where users have a lot more direct control over their personal data, and we also believe in open, interoperable architectures. We want to get away from a world where people are really locked into one specific platform and are stuck with that.”


Ghana anti-GMO activists seek court ruling to stop commercialization of GM rice and cowpea, but scientists, farmer groups and biosafety officials say the case has no merit.
Ecomodernists want to see science fully applied in agriculture so that farmers can do their job of growing food in the most sustainable and productive way they can.
Nigerian scientists are taking a “home grown” approach in using biotechnology to improve five of the nation’s staple crops in order to feed a rapidly growing population.
South African farmer Tepsy Ntseoane wants other female farmers in her country to turn to biotechnology for increased yields.
The anti-vaccine and anti-GMO movements — driven by similar conspiracist fears about big corporations, ideological preference for "natural" alternatives and opposition to modern science generally — are increasingly overlapping. The scientific community needs to get its act together if it is to successfully fight back.
Maddox Prize judges say scientists are under attack globally and need more institutional support.
Japanese doctor wins global Maddox prize for standing up for science in the face of a lawsuit, media blacklisting and other harassment by anti-vaccine activists.
GMO crops in Uganda are expected to provide economic and food security benefits, say researchers and agriculture agencies.
Nigerian officials say "agitation about GMOs" has decreased as a result of educational outreach on the safety and benefits of crop biotechnology.


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MK Czerwiec’s (pronounced sir-wick) new book Taking Turns (Penn State University Press) shares the story of Unit 371, a shining example of excellence in the treatment and care of patients. Unit 371 was a community for thousands of patients and families affected by HIV and AIDS and the people …
Stink Eye #1
34p, b&w, 5.5"x8.5"
A riot of a first issue aimed at upping the ante, Kansas City. Half part a sexuality and gender glossary, half discussion of sexism in punk scenes, decorated throughout with vegan recipes, homemade brainbusters and general rowdiness. -EF


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The economy is undoubtedly to blame to a certain extent, but is there something else that is driving down campaign spending in Western Massachusetts political races?
In the video below, political consultant Anthony Cignoli talks about the trends in campaign spending in the Western Massachusetts primaries, races that oftentimes fielded candidates with surprisingly low campaign funds.
Cignoli says that many candidates, particularly in the Hampden District Attorney race, focused too heavily on Springfield city center, and not enough on the outlying towns.
Watch Cignoli's analysis with Wayne Phaneuf, Executive Editor of The Republican. Click here for more Primary Analysis from Tony Cignoli.


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Is Delta 10 Legal In North Dakota? A Comprehensive THC Guide
Is Delta 10 Legal In North Dakota? You may ask this question as you explore ways to experience the benefits of hemp-derived cannabinoids without stepping over any legal lines. And that's exactly what we'll delve into today: sifting through complex laws and regulations surrounding this elusive compound known as Delta-10.
Instead of sifting through dense legal jargon or unreliable online resources, we've done the hard work for you. Brace yourself for an in-depth exploration of everything from how state laws deal with Delta-10, to its comparison with CBD. Let's get started Is Delta 10 Legal In North Dakota?
Understanding Delta-10 and its Legal Status in North Dakota
If you're curious about the question, "Is Delta 10 legal in North Dakota?" we've got answers. The world of THC products can be a bit tricky to navigate.
The Basics of Delta-10 THC
Delta-10 is one form of THC, found naturally but only in small amounts. Users report feeling a mildly intoxicating "head" high with this substance. But what's interesting here is that North Dakota law defines hemp and other plant materials on a weight basis.
The Current Legal Status of Delta-10 in North Dakota
Currently, Delta-10 is illegal in North Dakota due to the state's strict laws regarding THC and its derivatives. Although CBD products with 0.3% THC or less on a dry weight basis, as well as other hemp products within the acceptable THC level, are permitted in the state, the usage of Delta-10 THC is prohibited under Section 4.1-181-043 of the North Dakota Century Code. This law prohibits the sale of hemp products that are created by isomerizing cannabinoids to produce additional THC isomers, such as Delta-8, Delta-9, and Delta-10 THC.
It is important for consumers to be aware of the legal status of cannabinoids in their state and to always purchase products from reputable retailers that adhere to state laws and regulations.
The Legality of Hemp Products in North Dakota
An examination of how hemp products are regulated under North Dakota law.
Hemp Laws in North Dakota
Hemp laws in North Dakota are intricate and closely aligned with federal regulations. The state defines hemp as any product containing hemp that exceeds the allowable total THC limit. Federal law dictates that industrial hemp should have no more than 0.3% THC on a dry-weight basis.
Any derivative from Cannabis Sativa with THC exceeding this limit is deemed a controlled substance. This strict stance applies to all Cannabis Sativa derivatives, encompassing CBD, Delta-10 THC, and vape cartridges containing these compounds. Despite the stringency, there may still be room for engagement within the legal framework.
Buying Legal Hemp in North Dakota
In North Dakota, legal hemp products, including certain delta derivatives, can be purchased online or from local stores if they meet specific criteria outlined by federal and state regulations. To ensure legality, consumers are advised to choose CBD products from certified industrial hemp growers who adhere to proper cultivation practices specified in North Dakota's comprehensive regulatory framework for the Industrial Hemp Production Program.
The Difference Between Delta-10 and CBD in North Dakota
Delta-10 THC and CBD are both hemp-derived cannabinoids, but they differ significantly. Most notably, their legal statuses in North Dakota vary.
Delta-10 vs. CBD: What's the Difference?
In terms of effects, users report that Delta-10 offers a mildly intoxicating "head" high. CBD does not cause any intoxication and is instead often used for wellness purposes.
The difference also lies within their legality in North Dakota. According to FDA guidelines, only those CBD products meeting certain criteria can continue being sold until further action by them.
Legal Status of Delta 10 & Hemp-Derived Cannabinoids in ND
In North Dakota, the legal status of Delta-10 and other hemp-derived cannabinoids is closely tied to hemp laws. The state defines hemp in a way that prohibits products with THC levels exceeding the allowable limit and those that are chemical synthesis. This has direct implications for cannabinoids like Delta-10, Delta-8, etc., as their legality hinges on THC levels.
However, the challenge lies in the state's limited recognition of new molecules like Delta-10, creating a legal gray area. Despite this, it's acknowledged that rules can change, and there's a growing acceptance of cannabis sativa plants, suggesting potential regulatory shifts concerning all forms of THC in North Dakota may happen sooner rather than later.
Understanding THC Levels and Regulations in North Dakota
In the world of hemp laws, understanding total THC on a dry weight basis is crucial. In North Dakota, regulations surrounding this are strict.
In North Dakota, hemp is legally defined as any plant material containing a total THC concentration of 0.3% or less. But what happens when we talk about chemically synthesized products?
Total THC and North Dakota Law
While other hemp products like CBD that fall within the acceptable THC level are legal in North Dakota, it's important to note that the sale of hemp products created using the isomerization of cannabinoids is prohibited under Section 4.1-181-043 of the North Dakota Century Code. This includes the creation of additional THC isomers like Delta-8, Delta-9, and Delta-10 THC.
Legal Limitations on THC in North Dakota
If you're asking "Is Delta 10 Legal in North Dakota?", it's essential to understand how its legality ties into these limits.
THC Regulation in ND
This makes buying Delta products online tricky for residents wanting to experience mild intoxication without crossing lines with federal level or state-controlled substance lists.
You see, states have some wiggle room here - but only if their own definitions of cannabinoids fall within certain parameters established by the 2018 Farm Bill. Unfortunately for fans of this psychoactive cannabinoid variant, current interpretations mean that right now: nope. You can't legally purchase Delta-10 in North Dakota.
The Future of Delta-10 and Other Cannabinoids in ND
North Dakota is reevaluating its stance on cannabinoids, particularly Delta-10, a psychoactive compound derived from the hemp plant. House Bill 1045 restricts products with high THC levels, including Delta-10, which is chemically converted from hemp and faces bans in North Dakota and other states. The evolving regulations around Delta substances could create opportunities for consumers and businesses, contingent on navigating the state's THC definitions accurately.
If legalized, this could significantly impact not only online THC buyers but also North Dakota's hemp growers, opening a potentially lucrative market within the federal legal framework. Despite challenges, the future appears promising for the cannabis industry in the state. The unfolding developments will determine the trajectory of Delta-10 and other cannabinoids in North Dakota.
Is Delta 10 Legal in North Dakota?
Currently, no. Delta-10, along with other hemp-derived cannabinoids like Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC, is not explicitly allowed in North Dakota and is considered a controlled substance.
Is Medical Marijuana Legal in North Dakota?
Indeed, the use of medical marijuana is permitted in North Dakota. However, it is only available to patients with qualifying conditions and requires a prescription from a licensed physician.
Can I buy Delta 10 THC products online?
No, you cannot legally buy Delta-10 THC products in North Dakota due to the state's strict THC laws and regulations on total THC levels.
What is hemp flower?
Hemp flower refers to the buds of the hemp plant, which contain a variety of cannabinoids like CBD and THC. It is often used for medicinal or recreational purposes, but its legal status can vary depending on state laws.
Navigating the legal landscape of Delta-10 in North Dakota is a bit like threading a needle. So, Is Delta 10 Legal In North Dakota? The answer is no, yet this doesn't mean all hope is lost for cannabinoid enthusiasts in ND.
Hemp products are regulated but remain an option if they adhere to total THC limits. Keep your eye on federal law versus state law, as their contrast often creates confusion.
CBD and Delta-10 differ not only by effects but also legally within ND's borders - CBD maintains legality under certain conditions while D-10 does not.
With our enhanced comprehension of: Is Delta 10 Legal in North Dakota? Always remember: buying and using THC products need due diligence from you to avoid any potential trouble with the law!
Looking for a reputable online store to purchase high-quality hemp products like Delta 8, Delta 10, THC-P, and HHC products? Discover our collection of top-notch brands like Bad Days, Dot, Flurish, Hixotic, Litto, Modus, Purlyf, Torch, Urb, and more. Burning Daily offers an unparalleled selection of premium hemp products.

domain: law


We provide fixer services for documentary and film productions.
We have worked for many productions from large budget blue-chip nature documentaries to smaller productions with only a few days to shoot. Our fixer services have aided productions that have aired on channels including BBC, Discovery, National Geographic, History Channel, and Animal Planet. Efficient, organized and versatile- we are simply the perfect company to help you with all your production and media needs.
We offer Travel Arrangements, including vehicle, hotel and aircraft travel
Our company collaborates with clients to help them realize their production goals. We handle the smallest budget projects to the largest programs with equal care and professionalism. With years of expertise in all facets of production, broad industry resources and proven experience in the entertainment, commercial, print, film and television industries, Albatross is the right choice to make smooth progress of local production. In creative and production support, we are uniquely positioned to utilize the right people, skills, alliances, and technologies that will guarantee you success and satisfaction.
Our Projects aired on:
The British Broadcasting Corporation is a British public service broadcasting statutory corporation. Its main responsibility is to provide impartial public service broadcasting in the United Kingdom, the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man.
- Discovery Channel
Discovery Channel is an American basic cable and satellite television channel that is the flagship television property of Discovery Communications, a publicly traded company run by CEO David Zaslav.
- National Geographic
National Geographic, formerly the National Geographic Magazine, is the official magazine of the National Geographic Society. It has been published continuously since its first issue in 1888, nine months after the Society itself was founded.
- History Channel
History is an American basic cable and satellite television channel that is owned by A+E Networks, a joint venture between the Hearst Corporation and the Disney–ABC Television Group division of The Walt Disney Company.
- Animal Planet
Animal Planet is an American basic cable and satellite television channel that is owned by Discovery Communications. It carries documentary programming focused on or relating to animals. Originally focused on more educationally-based television shows, the network focused on reality programming since the late 2000s.


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Buying a slow feeder for a horse
It is best for a horse to consume food in smaller quantities, which is why a slow feeder is recommended for a horse. In nature, horses do not eat large amounts of food, but rather eat small portions during the day. However, if you own a horse, you will tend to feed your horse in greater quantities. Whether this is better for the animal remains to be seen. That's why slow feeders are a good idea for a horse.
Order your slow feeder for your horse via our site
If you want to buy a slow feeder for a horse, our site is the right place. This way you can easily feed your horse in a dosed manner. This can be done in the barn, but a slow feeder can also be used on the go. This way you can be sure that your horse will consume smaller portions in a natural way. This is healthier for the horse. If you order your slow feeder via our site, you can choose from many variants. Of course these are available for the best prices.

domain: pet


HPE 32gb HDD – P00924-B21
P00924-B21 provides these features:
– HPE DDR4 3200 MT/s Smart Memory provides improvements in bandwidth in comparison to DDR4 2933 MT/s memory modules.
– HPE DDR4 Smart Memory delivers improvements in latency at 3200 MT/s in comparison to DDR4 2933 MT/s memory modules.
– Hewlett Packard Enterprise tests and qualifies HPE DDR4 Smart Memory modules on all HPE server platforms to deliver the highest level of signal integrity.
– HPE DDR4 Smart Memory prevents unnecessary DIMM replacement and reduces server downtime with advanced memory error detection technology.
– HPE uses the highest quality materials for its DDR4 server memory, reducing issues that may affect signal integrity and increasing system reliability.
– HPE provides server memory that performs above industry standards, enabling customers to increase the performance of their servers without having to increase the amount of memory purchased.


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Mental Illness: Fighting the Stigma
Every person is unique, and so what might work for one individual may not be suitable for another. Families and loved ones in particular are often faced with extremely difficult decisions about how to care for their partner, parent, sibling or child who is suffering from a mental illness. Schizoaffective disorder and schizophrenia are extremely complex illnesses, and no one person can ever hope to manage it on their own.
Because of the stigma and misunderstanding that surround mental illness and schizophrenia in particular, I believe that people suffering from these illnesses often don’t want to admit that this is what they may be dealing with. Depression is fairly common these days, and isn’t too difficult to accept and get treatment for, but illnesses such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, paranoid schizophrenia and others have all kinds of stereotypes that people don’t want to be associated with.
I recommended NAMI as a wonderful resource for people suffering from mental illness and the families who care for them. The NAMI national website even has a StigmaBuster program (http://www.nami.org/template.cfm?section=fight_stigma) to help combat inaccurate and hurtful representations of mental illness on TV, film and other media.
Even though I’ve had my blog for over a year now, I still don’t mention my illness to very many people that I meet in person. I’ve shared my experiences with my family, my husband’s family, and my Buddhist group first and foremost. Now, I’m starting to open up, and worry less about the stigma and what other people might think of me.
Sometimes I think that other people might view me as incompetent due to my diagnosis in the sense that my thought process and intellectual faculties might not be up to par. I’m getting to the point now where I’m not really concerned about this so much anymore. It’s too much trouble trying to separate my illness from the rest of my life. I’ve found that most people are supportive and understanding, and although I haven’t worked in the traditional sense in a couple of years, I am finding other ways to be productive and hopefully earn a living with my writing. As with my blog, I am finding that writing my memoir is a way for me to share my experiences, and encourage others.

domain: literature


NEWORLEANS-- The Ice Bucket Challenge is flooding social media sights to raise awareness and cash for awareness for Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease.
Celebrities and people you may know are hopping on board. But, is the viral craze really doing good?
Eyewitness New asked local and national ALS organizations, and they say yes.
'Its really, really made a difference locally and the people that we're trying to help, and obviously on the national level with millions of dollars coming in,' said Tom Capella with Team Gleason.
If you've logged onto Facebook, Twitter or Instagram lately, seeing people douse themselves with ice water is hard to ignore.
Celebrities and athletes like Drew Brees added their special touch. Even Gov. Bobby Jindal is joining the cause.
'I want to thank Drew Brees for challenging me to take the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge,' Jindal said on a YouTube clip posted on his Facebook page.
Thousands are taking the ice-cold challenge to help raise awareness and money for ALS.
The campaign started with with Pete Frates and his family. Once captain of Boston College's baseball team, the 29-year-old is unable to speak today and is confined to a wheelchair because of ALS.
'We never would have ever thought that something that would have stayed within the family and friends would go viral. Now we're in the middle of this storm and its exciting,' said John Frates, Pete's father.
The storm is catching on complete with a rainbow. The national ALS Association says in a two-week period the organization and its chapters have received $5.7 million in donations, breaking records.
Team Gleason was started by former Saints player Steve Gleason, who is also battling the disease. Team Gleason has seen an uptick in support that will benefit both ALS patients and research.
'Locally we know from Team Gleason our donations have doubled in the last two or three weeks since the ALS ice bucket challenge has blown up,' said Capella.
Gleason, of course, accepted the frigid challenge in his birthday suit, joining the masses willing to clench their teeth and for a worthy chill.
Eyewitness New reporter Tania Dall took the challenge passing it on to the WWL-TV News night team. If you'd like to support the cause visit teamgleason.org.