text:
The capital of Germany is Berlin. This is one of the main points of attraction for tourists. It come for excursions, for business or just for fun. The city has about 500 hotels for every taste. Holidays in Germany, you can call in cities such as Leipzig, Schwerin, Weimar, Hamburg.
Well popular among tourists Dresden. Even though the vast destruction during the last war, there remained a large number of pre-war places of interest. Nuremberg - the birthplace of the famous artist Dürer. Famous for its breweries in Munich - a great place to start your adventures in Bavaria.
In Germany you can not only relax, but also to improve their health by visiting the spa resorts with mineral springs. There are many interesting towns, which, unfortunately, it is difficult to see at one time. But on the other hand, it is even better - will be another reason to come back here to open each time for myself interesting tourist routes: Düsseldorf, Freiburg, Heidelberg, Tübingen, Bonn, Cologne, Trier, and others. Some hotels are located in Germany ancient restored palace with amazing views from the windows, but the cost of rooms in them large enough.
Products of German industry have always been high quality and reliability. Germany is one of the world's leading industrial countries. Such brands as BMW, "Volkswagen" and "Mercedes" known to every motorist. In the state of decent wages and high living standards.
One of the financial centers called Frankfurt. It built the tallest skyscraper in Europe. The Germans know a lot of alcoholic beverages and foods. In addition, each region of Germany tries to keep the traditions of the past, offering something the new. In the outback, you can visit the village fair and try unsophisticated food. In large cities, better book a table in advance to dine at some expensive, elegant restaurant.
Wine and beer are highly valued, so here are made of various types of drinks. In this country are born talented people such as Beethoven, Bauhaus, Dürer, Goethe. Here the river is flowing wine and beer, and snacks are fried to a crisp Bavarian sausages, in the winter you warm local mulled wine - all this deserves to be at least one eye to see the wonderful country in the heart of Europe.


text:
Application Note: Analysis of Free Bromate Ions in Tap Water using an ACQUITY UPLC BEH Amide Column
12 April 2013
Bromates found in drinking water pose a toxic health risk to humans if ingested in significant quantities. This application note describes the analysis of free bromated ions in tap water using an ACQUITY UPLC BEH Amide Column. Results demonstrate the feasibility of analyzing bromate ions in tap water using the HILIC separation mode and flexible LC-MS instrumentation that already exists in many laboratories worldwide.

domain: chemistry


text:
Westpac’s annual profit has slumped by two-thirds after it was fined $1.3 billion for 23 million breaches of money laundering laws.
The big bank says full-year net profit fell by 66 per cent to nearly $2.3 billion for the year to the end of September because of writedowns and the economic recession.
Cash earnings fell 63 per cent from nearly $6.9 billion in 2019 to $2.6 billion in 2020.
Westpac took a $3.2 billion dollar hit from the money laundering fine and the impact of the coronavirus recession, compared to a writedown of $794 million last year.
The bank’s chief executive Peter King said it had been a difficult year.
“2020 has been a particularly challenging year and our financial result is disappointing,” he said.
“Our earnings have been significantly impacted by higher impairment charges, increased notable items and the sharp decline in economic activity.”
Dividends restart but slashed
The bank paid a dividend to investors for the second half of the financial year after no payout for the first half.
However, their final dividend was cut by nearly two-thirds from last year to 31 cents a share, fully franked.
Big banks have been ordered by the banking regulator APRA to limit their dividend payouts to half of annual net profit to preserve their capital buffers.
Westpac’s share price has slumped 26 per cent so far this year.
Record fine over money laundering and facilitating child abuse
In September, the bank agreed to pay a $1.3 billion fine to settle a case brought by the financial crimes regulator Austrac.
The regulator uncovered 262 customers who made suspicious transactions to the Philippines, other parts of South-East Asia and Mexico, exhibiting signs of engaging in overseas child exploitation.
Mr King said the bank had started a comprehensive program to strengthen its risk culture, which included significant investment in training.
“We have taken accountability for our mistakes and commenced a process of fundamental change, which has included refreshing the board and management and elevating oversight of financial crime, compliance and conduct,” Mr King said.
The bank also paid out $280 million to customers in compensation for financial scandals.
Customers start making loan repayments
Westpac says more home loan and business loan customers have started repaying their mortgages again, after being granted a repayment holiday because of coronavirus.
Mr King said more than two-thirds of mortgage customers had restarted paying their loans.
The number of home loans in deferral fell from 146,000 loans worth $54.7 billion six months ago to 41,000 accounts worth $16.6 billion.
Small business loans that were deferred dropped from 32,900 worth $10.1 billion to 4,300 accounts worth $1 billion.
Mr King said he expected to see an improvement in the bank’s mortgage book next year.
However, he warned that while the bank’s economists expect growth to improve over 2021 and 2022, unemployment would remain high for some time.
“We remain in an uncertain environment, however the recent budget has provided significant stimulus to businesses and households,” he said.
Last week, ANZ saw its annual net profit drop 40 per cent to $3.6 billion.
National Australia Bank will release its annual profit results later in the week.
The Reserve Bank is expected to cut official interest rates to a record low of 0.1 per cent at its meeting tomorrow.

domain: news


text:
Can you name Barca’s top ‘not Messi’ scorer for every season since 2000?
Lionel Messi was Barcelona’s top scorer in 11 out of the 12 seasons between 2009 and 2021 – but can you name their top scorer for every campaign this millennium not including the Argentina international?
You should still be getting 100% on this even without the Messi gimmes so kudos only really comes in doing it ridiculously fast. Our time to beat on this one is
“We are witnessing the best player in every sense,” his manager Pep Guardiola said after he became the club’s all-time top goalscorer at the age of 24 back in 2012. “He does everything, and he does it every three days.”
“I’m sorry for those that want to sit on his throne, but this lad is the best. Hopefully we can enjoy his football for many more years.”
However, Messi isn’t the only great forward that Barcelona have boasted in the 21st century – as the names in this quiz attest.
If you want a slightly more difficult challenge, see if you can name the Barcelona XI that beat Real Madrid 6-2 in 2009?
If you’ve not already, sign up for a Planet Sport account to access hints for those tricky answers, to reveal the ones you’ve missed, and to register your score on the leaderboard. Registering is free, fast, and gets you access to old articles as well as site personalisation and competitions.
In the meantime, good luck with this quiz, and don’t forget to tweet us your scores @planetfutebol.

domain: sports


text:
Chapter 46: Imminent Disaster
Translator:?EndlessFantasy Translation??Editor:?EndlessFantasy Translation
Yodel, Gilbert and the worried Jines—who kept turning her head back—silently left the hall with different paced footsteps.
In the hall filled with Everlasting Lamps, Thales could be seen sitting at the host’s seat. Morat was sitting at a distance behind the banquet table.
The place was silent.
But there was nervousness in the air.
Thales pretended to relax his shoulders, and he gave a smile that he usually carried while he was a beggar.
However, he still felt the biting gaze of the old man in black clothes, which were trained unwaveringly on him.
Thales felt uneasy from the abnormal atmosphere. His mind grappled firmly with the little information available.
‘The Chief of the Secret Intelligence Department.
‘Chief of Intelligence.
‘He also knows about my previous identity as a beggar as well as Red Street Market and… the Mystic.’
Morat seemed to have lost his patience. He abandoned his soft demeanor and spoke harshly in an extremely sharp voice, “I will get straight to the point, child. I just want to know about the night you escaped from Red Street Market and what the Mystic said to you when you met him.”
‘How did he know that Asda talked to me? Did Yodel betray me?’
Thales’ brain was spinning quickly, but there were too many variables and too much information to deal with.
‘What did Yodel say to him? How much did he say?
‘How much does Morat know about Asda, about Blood Bottle Gang and about my mystic power running out of control?’
Thales’ apprehensive mind came to a conclusion. ‘Whatever happens… I have to first ensure my own safety.’
Since that night Quide came to the sixth house looking for his hidden copper coins, the beggar and heir, Thales had been accustomed to his involuntary, precarious, and lonely fate. He had always tried his utmost to survive.
Thales expressed doubtful excitement. He then said, “What?” Oh, that Mystic! You are talking about the legendary boss of Blood Bottle Gang?”
Morat gently narrowed his eyes, looking puzzled and hesitant.
Thales then held his head, as though he was recalling the incident. “I remember that there was confusion everywhere that night. The boss of Blood Bottle Gang said—”
However, things did not go as he expected.
Morat was expressionless as he leaned against his walking stick. His voice resounded in Thales’ ears.
Morat’s eyes widened and he looked straight into Thales’ eyes, causing Thales to feel a chill run down his spine. “You have an innate talent for lying and acting. However, what I want to ask you is about… your old friend, Asda Sakern.”
“I will ask again. What did Asda say to you before Yodel appeared and sealed him?”
Morat’s eyes seemed to burn as he waited for Thales’ answer.
Thales, who had been interrupted, stopped and lowered his head.
‘What does he know? Does he know that I met Asda? Did he see through me?
‘Either way, this is not good.’ He felt apprehensive.
Thales tried his best to calm down. ‘This old man… is probably the most difficult person I have ever dealt with. However, since he is asking me about this, he must not know about what Asda said to me.’
Thales gritted his teeth. ‘In particular, he does not know that I am the same kind as Asda.’
In spite of that, Morat’s following words once again smashed his thoughts into pieces.
“Let me remind you again, boy.” Morat laughed unpleasantly.
“Did Asda not find a newly born Mystic?”
At that moment, Thales felt his heart turn cold in fear.
The boy thought in alarm. ‘Yodel… What did Yodel tell him? Why is he so certain?’
“Hahaha.” Morat broke out in a strange laughter. “People fear me for a reason.”
The old man moved forward step-by-step with his walking stick and approached Thales.
At that point, Thales had the urge to escape.
“I am a Psionic. Although I do not like this ability, it helps me a lot.”
A discouraging thought flashed through Thales’ mind.
“There is no need for you to lie anymore concerning the Air Mystic.
“I can clearly see into your mind. Asda, that handsome, pretty boy clothed in blue. My god, he is still so young!”
Morat’s words were like a hammer hitting Thales’ chest.
However, the engrossed Morat was not done. His words made Thales shiver as he uttered his words one after another.
“What is that in Asda’s hand, a blue ball? I can see three balls of flesh there. He still likes to squash humans into little meatballs, eh?
“Why is it so dark around the both of you? Where exactly are the both of you?”
Morat looked pleased as though he was reading an interesting travel log.
Thales’ mind turned blank and he instinctively trembled.
‘Clothed in blue?
‘Handsome, pretty boy?
‘Squashed human flesh?
‘A dark location?
‘How does he know this? How could he have known this?’
Thales even felt his breathing hitch.
Morat looked very tired. He lowered his head and rubbed his nose. “Ah, it is really strenuous to use this ability. I cannot use it so often.”
He then lifted his head and laughed, revealing an ugly and wrinkled smile. He looked at the now pale Thales and said, “That is why the others call me the ‘Black Prophet’.”
Thales was so shocked he was speechless. Morat then opened his mouth and said the most malignant thing to the boy.
“That is right, child.
“I can read minds.”
This time, Thales truly felt that he was facing an imminent disaster.
“What do we do now?” Standing at the corridor on the second floor, the first-class, female official, Jines looked at the two men in front of her with a dreadful expression. “You all know of Morat’s ability and capability. He uses secrets, information, scandals and everything you can think of to control anybody he wants to control.”
Jines took a few steps and added scornfully, “Are you going to just let that child… He is very smart, very mature and he has potential… but that is the Black Prophet in there with him!
“The omniscient Black Prophet!”
Gilbert said in a serious tone, “I am aware of his ability. Without the help of the Secret Intelligence Department, how could we have managed to sign the Fortress Treaty?”
“Yet, you still allowed him… That bastard Kessel. What is he thinking?” Jines angrily slammed down on the railings with her palm. The huge force caused a dent in the railings, which were made out of cedar wood.
At this moment, Gilbert frowned and turned around.[email protected]@@@[email protected]@@@@=======
Jines, who had discovered that something was off, also turned around while feeling puzzled.
Except for the motionless guards, only the two of them were in the corridor.
At some point in time, Yodel had disappeared again.
Meanwhile, at the Northern City Gate of the Eternal Star City, the guards and the city defense team on sentry duty had completed their day’s shift. They prepared to pull down the huge portcullis, closing the magnificent stone city gate.
‘This has been another calm day.’ The captain of the city defense team thought as he waved his hand and prepared to change shifts.
However, the keen-eyed sentries on the wall saw some figures on horseback in the distance riding quickly towards the capital.
Behind them, was a white flag.
One sentry on the wall shouted to his colleagues by the gate’s locks at the top of his voice, “Wait! Do not shut the gates! There are fast horses! They should be messengers!”
The captain felt uncertain and got up the walls. He saw the cavaliers from the distance.
When the group finally got nearer, the captain was surprised to see a white eagle flag in their hand.
‘The outpost five miles away did not stop them, so they should be important messengers, but…’
With a dignified expression, he stepped out to the front and roared.
“The capital is in front! Slow down immediately!”
“City defense team, interception formation!”
Dozens of soldiers from the city defense team immediately shouted below the city wall. They readied their swords and formed a barricade with their shields, shining like the stars and blocking the gates; a battle array formed against the advancing cavalry.
“Knights! Slow down immediately! Reveal your identity and business!” The captain shouted out from the gates.
The knights below then looked up, but continued to ride at the same speed. They raised a scroll and anxiously shouted, “This is an urgent message from the Mayor of?Cold Castle, the Guardian Duke of the Northern Territory, Val Arunde! This is a Level 7 Emergency!
“Please confer the message directly to the King!
“No one shall block the way! The Duke is on his way!
“This is his personal seal of command!”
As the knights spoke, he raised his hand. The scroll, which was tied to a stone, flew towards the gate, and it was caught firmly in the supra class captain’s hand.
‘This man is a master and is truly worthy to be a knight of the Northern Territory,’ the captain thought as he felt the power from the scroll slamming into his hand.
The captain removed the lacquer seal, then looked at the signature and stamp. He nodded his head and scrambled up the battlement to shout to the array below.
“Everyone, disperse the formation! Let them pass immediately!”
“I cannot thank you enough!” Below the city wall, the knights rushed past the soldiers who had given way. They desperately whipped their horses and galloped towards the center of the capital, surprising many passersby.
“Quickly! Faster, faster!” The lead knight had a frenzied expression as he urged his entire team ahead without any regard for the horses’ wellbeing.
The captain looked at the distant knights with a foul expression. “Do not close the gates yet. If what he says is true, we still have the Guardian Duke of the Northern Territory to greet.”
‘A Level 7 Emergency?
‘Ever since I assumed office, the most urgent reports or letters I have ever encountered were ones from the United Army led by His Majesty. I believe there was a war report on the decisive victory against the Barren Bone people and the orcs. I remember that was a Level 6 Emergency.
‘So, what just happened?’ He was very puzzled.
The captain hesitated for a moment. He then turned his head and asked one of his colleagues behind him.
“When was the last time we had a report declaring a Level 7 Emergency?”
The city defense team looked at each other, feeling uncertain.
“Do we even have a Level 7 Emergency?” a young soldier scratched his head and asked.
There was a moment of silence.
“There was a Level 7,” a somber voice answered. The soldiers all turned around to see a veteran, who was at the innermost area.
The veteran looked ghastly pale as though he had recalled a frightening memory.
His lips turned pale as he muttered, “The last time… was twelve years ago.”

domain: literature


text:
Who Was Born on My Birthday?
Born on My Birthday
Cause of Death
Date of Death
Year of Death
Age of Death
Photo from 'The Friendly Rivalry of the Brothers DiMaggio'
Joe DiMaggio (center) with fellow All Stars in 1937. Photo from the U.S. Library of Congress
More: The Friendly Rivalry of the Brothers DiMaggio

domain: library


Biometric identification cards are similar to existing ID cards, but they include biometric information. Most people are familiar with traditional identity cards that include basic details about an individual, such as a photograph, name, reference numbers, or other information.
Biometric id cards are often issued to staff members at large and small companies, to students at high schools and universities, or to citizens and employees by governments around the world.
First, you need to understand biometric information before you can understand how biometric id cards work.
Understanding Biometric Information
Biometric information is information about an individual’s body. Height and hair color are both examples, although these things are not very useful for identification, since they can change.
One of the most commonly used forms of biometric information for identification is the fingerprint. It has thought that no two individuals have the same fingerprints, and the patterns change very little over time.
Other types of biometric information that may be used for identification include iris scans, hand scans, and facial recognition.
How Does Biometric Information Get onto the Biometric ID Card?
Today it is easy to store a significant amount of information in a small space. Biometric information can easily be stored on magnetic strips or on microchips within these ID cards.
These very technologies have already been employed on credit cards for many years. The biometric information stored on biometric cards may vary, depending on how and by whom the cards are being used.
How is Biometric Information Used?
Many people are concerned about how the information from a biometric ID card may be used. It is often difficult to say how this information will be used.
However, it is important to understand a couple of important facts. First, simply having a card will not do anything, since the cards only have a purpose if they are used and checked.
Second, the biometric information on these cards will need to be checked against a list. Because this list is stored somewhere, using the card will allow your activity to be traced, monitored, and tracked.
How are These Cards Being Used?
Biometric identification cards are used in many different ways today, particularly by individuals and companies that may need greater security.
Companies that work within fields that are highly competitive may use biometric ID cards to provide extra security against theft and illegal duplication. Government sectors, schools, universities, and research institutions also find many benefits to using these identification cards.
Biometric ID Cards Across the World
Many countries are beginning to use biometric identity cards to help identify their citizens. Here is a look at some of the ways countries across the world are using these cards:
United Kingdom – The UK is working to establish a national ID card system that makes use of biometrics to identify citizens. The information is stored in a central database and accessible by multiple government sectors.
Spain – Spain is using a social security card that uses biometrics along with a smart card chip that helps store this information.
Malaysia – A national ID system has been implemented in Malaysia, and it uses smart card chips, photos, and biometric fingerprint recognition.
France – France is also encouraging the implementation of an ID card system for citizens that will rely on biometrics.
Netherlands – An automated border crossing system is used in the Netherlands, and it uses biometric iris recognition, smart card chips, and photos.
United States – Many companies within the US are using biometric ID cards and some universities are switching to biometric identification cards as well.


text:
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Maple Turmeric Cashew Milk RecipeMaple Turmeric Cashew Milk RecipePrint
Maple Turmeric Cashew Milk
Prep Time:5 mins
Cook Time:5 mins
Total Time:10 minutes
Yield:1+ quart 1x
1 cup raw cashews
4 cups water
1 1/2 tsp ground dry turmeric
2 Tbsp maple syrup
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp cardamom
1/4 tsp fresh ground black pepper
1/8 tsp nutmeg
1 pinch salt
Soak the cashews in the water for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
When the nuts are fully soaked, blend them on high in an extremely powerful blender (Vitamix-type) for 1 minute, until completely smooth.
Add the remaining ingredients and blend for another 15 seconds.
Serve hot or cold, and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

domain: food


Long Island Solar & Storage Alliance
The NYSEIA Long Island Solar & Storage Alliance (LISSA) promotes a vibrant and ethical business environment for solar and energy storage companies operating on Long Island. LISSA's all-volunteer membership of renewable energy professionals donate their time to grow the local clean energy movement. Their work includes influencing and sponsoring solar-friendly policy at the local, state, and federal level, as well as community education and engagement.
What We Do
Participate in public policy and regulatory proceedings affecting the solar industry.
Organize meetings, networking, and other public events for the local solar industry.
Collaborate with renewable energy, environmental, and economic development groups to expand solar energy on Long Island.
Provide information on solar energy and the Long Island solar industry to local and state elected officials, the Long Island Power Authority, and other relevant agencies.
Support economically viable and environmentally responsible implementation of renewable clean energy systems, including solar PV electric power, solar thermal, solar hot water and concentrated solar.
Reduce consumer energy costs while preserving our beautiful environment for future generations.
Long Island Solar & Storage Alliance represents a subset of NYSEIA member companies that are active in Long Island solar policy and development. Learn more about our membership program and get involved.


text:
With the president locked in high-level meetings at a secluded hotel in Northern Ireland, first lady Michelle Obama and her daughters took the chance to investigate their Irish roots.
Every spring, I head to Europe ready to start afresh on a new season of travel.
Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, christened the Royal Princess cruise ship this morning in what is expected to be her last solo public engagement before baby.
With the due date for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s baby fast approaching, we bet the royal couple won’t be doing much travelling any time soon. But royal watchers might still be able to catch a glimpse of the young royals in few places where the royal family have been known to spend their childhoods courtesy of VisitBritain.
A lot of dads will be getting Father's Day presents this Sunday and chances are one of those gifts could be a necktie.
The Belgian village of Doel is facing its final battle for survival against plans to expand the adjacent port of Antwerp that will erase it from the map to make way for a new dock.
A Belgian tour operator is offering “sick notes” to families wanting to take their children on holiday before the end of the school term, in a tongue-in-cheek campaign that has drawn strong criticism from education authorities.
Star of songs, sketches and the silver screen for over a hundred years, the Eiffel Tower is now taking the lead role in a musical composition which will see the landmark speak for itself.
Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, will make her last official public appearance at the christening of the Royal Princess cruise ship on June 13 before she retreats from the public eye to give birth to her first child with Prince William in July.
One of the great joys of European travel is eating. If you let yourself tune into the experience, a meal is a travel thrill in itself -- as inspiring as visiting an art gallery and as stimulating as a good massage.

domain: geography


text:
Norwegian passengers may be affected by Stansted strike
Baggage handlers at Air France have staged a strike starting this morning, to last until 04:00 on Wednesday April 4. Pilots and cabin crews are not involved, but the airline’s management warn that limited problems are expected. The airline has not stated whether it has a contingency plan in place. Air traffic controllers at minor airports in France are also involved in the strike.
Meanwhile, baggage handlers are preparing to go on strike at London Stansted, with 150 baggage handlers working for the company Swissport ready to walk out from Good Friday (April 6) until Easter Monday (April 9). Swissport provides handling services to airlines such as Norwegian, Ryanair, Thomson Airways and Turkish Airlines.
EasyTravelReport / Wanderlust
[photo courtesy Air France]


text:
Description: This course covers fundamental baking skills for students who intend to specialize in baking and pastry making instead of general cooking. Production of yeast and quick breads, cakes, cookies, pies, and pastries, as well as decorating and icings are undertaken, with emphasis placed on more sophisticated items and gourmet specialties including cakes and pastries for weddings, birthdays and special occasions. Gourmet baked items and pastries are produced in a time restricted quality minded setting. This course is for students pursuing a certificate or degree in culinary arts/culinary management.
This course can help you earn the following degree(s) or certificate(s):


text:
EVER since Facebook made its stockmarket debut on May 18th, its new shareholders have had ample reason to grumble. The company’s shares have been trading for much less than the $38 at which they were first offered. The social-networking giant’s first quarterly results as a public company, unveiled on July 26th, did little to cheer shareholders up.
The numbers Facebook reported were in fact far from shabby. In the three months to June revenues were 32% higher than a year earlier, at $1.18 billion, much as expected. Facebook also boasted an increase of 29% in its number of monthly active users, to an astonishing 955m.


text:
Sgt. 1st Class Charles Martland, the veteran now infamous for beating an Afghan commander that raped a child, has struggled to get reinstated in the military since he was pulled out of Afghanistan. Though his appeal was at first rejected, Army Secretary John Mchugh granted Martland a 60-day reprieve to pursue an appeal for his discharge.
McHugh made his decision to give Martland more time to mount his appeal after hearing from Rep. Mac Thornberry, chairman of the House Armed Services Committee. Thornberry wrote in a letter to McHugh that Martland was a hero standing up for American values and that it was wrong to punish him for his actions.
“Congress cannot substitute our judgement for that of the military chain of command,” Thornberry wrote in the letter. “We are, however, responsible for ensuring that the processes in place are fair and adequate to the demands of an Army at war. In my review of SFC Martland’s case, I noted potential procedural errors in due process. I believe the best recourse now would be to allow SFC Martland to remain in the Army long enough for him to prepare an appeal with adequate military counsel and for the Army to act on such an appeal.”
While McHugh did not announce whether or not he agreed with Thornberry, he decided to grant Martland the reprieve “out of respect for Chairman Thornberry’s continued strong support for our military and his personal appeal.”
The relationship between American military members and Afghan soldiers has been put under a microscope ever since the New York Times published an expose accusing the Pentagon of ordering American troops to turn a blind eye towards sexual abuse in Afghanistan. Veterans, lawmakers and pundits alike have voiced their support for Martland and his colleague Capt. Dan Quinn for saving a ten year-old boy from his abuser.


Virtual Hold Technology positions themselves as one of the key players among top companies that cater to the technology needs of customer support requirements of businesses worldwide. VHT helps businesses enhance their customer support process with highly scalable solutions that provide innovative solutions for optimizing customer interaction. VHT’s patented Callback solution enables businesses to help its customers connect with live support without having to waiting on hold.
Eliminating wait times and enabling the contact center agent to be informed about the customer’s issue before placing a callback is very effective and results in great feedback from customers. This in turn contributes to “effortless customer experience,” the mission of many global enterprises, which VHT delivers with VHT Callback and complementary solutions that make up the VHT Solution Suite.
The complete solution suite consists of the following core offerings:
VHT Callback™ calculates and quotes the expected wait time and gives callers the option to receive a callback when it’s their turn, or to schedule a callback at a more convenient time.
VHT Notification Suite™ delivers a near real-time feed of events of the status of VHT Callbacks. CRM systems are updated, custom calling lists are built, and timely notifications are sent to callers via email or SMS.
VHT Agent Assist™ provides agents engaged with callers who require a transfer the ability to check wait times in available queues and offer scheduled callbacks convenient for customers.
VHT Conversation Bridge™ provides customers the ability to request a callback seamlessly through non-voice channels such as web or mobile.
VHT Navigator™ is customer outcome management software that captures and analyzes historical and real-time customer-specific data, navigating real-time decisions and effortless customer interaction towards desired outcomes.
The core reason for businesses opting for solutions offered by VHT is its ability to integrate to their existing communication environments. VHT solutions are able to support both native and hybrid Cisco environments across all Cisco ICM/UCCE/UCCX versions and continues to innovate delivering new features inside the already well established support channels. VHT is uniquely positioned to support customers in the transition process by supporting multiple Cisco environments within a single VHT instance. VHT has proven experience and scalability in supporting the smallest UCCX environment to the largest global UCCE deployments.
VHT targets the high growth segments to scale its business. VHT continues to win many large Cisco UCCE customers, as they seek to optimize their ability to delight their customers.
VHT and Cisco are jointly deployed in some of the world’s largest contact centers successfully managing call backs in all channels with technology solutions targeted at enhancing the customer experience while leveraging all the value that Cisco brings in the customer infrastructure. With twenty years of experience, VHT uses its knowledge to help customers and companies enjoy a positive interaction and reinforce their relationships. VHT work towards its mission of reducing customer effort, frustration and time by connecting phone, web and mobile customers to live assistance when they need it without making them waiting on hold and enabling centers to operate more efficiently matching call volume with available resources.


text:
What is Uzumaki about
In the outskirts of Japan, squeezed between mountain range and the sea, is a small town called Kurouzu-chou. This is the place that is about to be heavily infected by spirals. It started with one man’s obsession with spirals and quickly spread to everybody in town.
Small, isolated incidents involving spirals happen all over Kurouzo-chou. Hair that suddenly turns spiral, girl with spiral dig into her skull, lovers who twist together like a pair of snakes, talking babies, snail people, and lots of other crazy things happen until the town finally falls to ruin.
The story of Uzumaki
Premise. Uzumaki has one of the most bizarre premises that I’ve ever come across. A horror story built around spirals? what? Who would’ve thought about that? Well, Junji Ito did. The horror master is no stranger to weird premises, but the way he handles this one is simply out of this world.
Character development. The main character of Uzumaki is Kirie and I’m glad to say that there is a character development for her, albeit a bit subtle. It’ll be great if her character is explored a bit more in order to create a more rounded character. But well, it is still better than nothing I suppose.
World building. There’s not much world-building during the first half of the story. But thankfully the second half presents a much wider variety of settings and concepts. Especially near the end of the story where the character finally started to explore new places and meet new people.
Pacing. For the most part, the chapters within Uzumaki tell individual stories that follow a similar pacing structure. It started slow, picked up some pace in the middle, reached top speed, then hit a brick wall and abruptly ended. And the book as a whole is also following the exact same structure.
Story progression. Uzumaki feels like a collection of short stories that are based around the same theme that is collected under the frame of Kirie’s narrative. Kinda like Scheherazade in One Thousand And One Nights. So it’s not just a bunch of loosely-connected short stories. It does have a clear beginning, middle and end.
The art of Uzumaki
Anatomy and perspective. As expected from veteran mangaka such as Junji Ito, there is no noticeable issue when it comes to the anatomy and perspective drawings within Uzumaki. Even the deformities, no matter how crazy they are, are done in a believable, sort of, manner.
Expression. The expression in every Junji Ito’s manga always follows the exact same range. It goes from the default normal/indifference face to the look of utter terror. Uzumaki shows the whole spectrum of that range. But the most stand out one is of course his collection of spine-chilling faces.
Movement. Junji Ito has always been brilliant when it comes to depicting movement. But outside of the usual movements like walking, running and jumping, he is also a master when it comes to unusual movements. Such as squirming, the spider walking, slithering, etc.
Panel flow. For the most part, Junji Ito used conventional panels in Uzumaki. Occasionally, there will be a full page spread or transitional panels. And all of them flow nicely from one panel to the next. He also used quite a lot of dynamic angles to his drawings that enhance the flow of the panels even further.
Originality. If you ever see Junji Ito’s artwork before, you’ll instantly recognize it the next time you see one. Most of his characters have similar facial features and a gloomy atmosphere to them. And he also used a lot of shading and black tone in his panels, which is responsible for his trademark somber mood.
Where to get Uzumaki
Throughout the years, there have been several versions of Uzumaki published in English. The first one being the original three volumes format. But they don’t publish them any longer. So if you want them, there should be some on eBay.
The ubiquitous formats nowadays are the digital version and the hardcover 3-in-1 formats from Viz. Which one you should get depends highly on what kind of reader you are.
If you simply want to read it, then going for the digital version is the best option. It is cheaper, easier to read, you can read it on any device that has the kindle app, and it won’t take any physical space.
But if you want to add it to your collection, then you should buy the hardcover deluxe version. The size is bigger than usual manga and the quality of the paper is also better.
Manga similar to Uzumaki
Tomie by Junji Ito
Another masterpiece from Junji Ito, Tomie is the story of the mysterious girl named Tomie. She has an unrivaled beauty and could charm any men who laid eyes on her.
Many men would do her bidding to prove their love to her. They love her so much that they’re willing to destroy their own life. They love her so much that they would cut her up to pieces. And yet she keeps on coming back.
Similar to Uzumaki, Tomie is also made up of individual chapters that are built around the same concept. But if Uzumaki is all about an object, the spirals. Tomie is all about an individual, the alluring beauty called Tomie.
Hell’s Paradise by Yuji Kaku
Out of the three manga in this list, Hell’s Paradise is the most recent one. It is a story about a band of death row bandits that are tasked to obtain the elixir of immortality in a mysterious island in exchange for their life.
Unbeknownst to them, the island is filled with monsters and strange creatures. From a giant deformed monster to a humanoid creature that could change their sex at will. All are out to slaughter them.
Hell’s paradise bears a lot of similar themes with Uzumaki. Bizarre incidents, deformed humans, mysteries, and many more. But this one is a shounen manga, which means there will be action and adventure inside.
The Drifting Classroom by Kazuo Umezu
If the previous one is a recent manga, The Drifting Classroom is a classic horror manga series. And although it was first published in 1972, the terror is still alive and well within its pages.
As the story goes, a group of elementary schoolers are transformed into a wasteland filled with terrible monsters and bizarre occurrences. With no exit in sight, they find themselves trying to survive in this strange world.
One of the best story elements in Uzumaki is about the dark side of humanity. Well, The Drifting Classroom will take it up to eleven. Because in this dangerous world, even children have to be ruthless.
Out of every scary moment in Uzumaki, the one that stuck to me the most is the very first story. The tale of a man who’s become obsessed with Spirals to the point of taking his own life. You could even call it a story of an addiction.
One of my many vices is, as you might expect, reading manga. Whenever I come across a really good manga, I won’t do anything else until I finish reading it.
I don’t care how much money I have to spend or the time it takes to read the whole thing. At that moment, I was obsessed. You might even call me a manga addict at this point. There are times when it gets really bad and I find myself trying to stay away from manga entirely.
And that’s why that one story really struck close to home for me. Strip it out of its horror and supernatural elements, then it could very well be the path that every kind of addict would take. An erratic man who makes irrational decisions.
That is pretty much one of the reasons why I made this blog. At least this way I could channel my obsession into something that might be useful to other people. And I can have another source of income while at it, which is also a good thing.
For more on Uzumaki, check out my 10 creepiest moments in Junji Ito’ Uzumaki. And for more horrr manga, check out the Top 10 scary manga from 10 different horror subgenres.


|KIM, YIHYUN - Collaborator|
|HONG, SUKYOUNG - Collaborator|
|LEE, HOONYOL - Kangwon National University|
|BINDLISH, RAJAT - Science Systems, Inc|
|Kustas, William - Bill|
Submitted to: BARC Poster Day
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 3/22/2011
Publication Date: 4/27/2011
Citation: Kim, Y., Hong, S., Lee, H., Jackson, T.J., Bindlish, R., Kustas, W.P. 2011. Monitoring rice (oryza sativa L.) growth using multifrequency microwave scatterometers [abstract]. Abs. 24. BARC Poster Day.
Technical Abstract: Microwave remote sensing can help monitor the land surface water cycle and crop growth. This type of remote sensing has great potential over conventional remote sensing using the visible and infrared regions due to its all-weather day-and-night imaging capabilities. In this investigation, a ground-based polarimetric scatterometer operating at multiple frequencies was used to continuously monitor the crop conditions of rice. Polarimetric observations at X-, C- and L-band were made every 10 minutes to study the effect of weather conditions on the microwave observations at various growth stages. The polarimetric scatterometer components were installed inside an air-conditioned shelter to maintain constant temperature and humidity during the data acquisition period. Backscattering coefficients for the entire rice growing season (from transplanting to harvesting) were compared with biophysical measurements. Backscattering coefficients for all bands gradually increased in accordance with rice growth data and decreased with a reduction of leaf area index (LAI) and fresh biomass. X-band backscattering coefficients observed dual-peak characteristics during rice growth stage (peak 1: 68 days after transplant; peak 2: 137 days after transplant) and grain water content was closely related to the X-band backscattering coefficients. L-band observations were significantly correlated to rice growth after the heading stage (84 days after transplanting) due to the double bounce scattering effect (the additional scattering resulting from the signal being reflected by the standing water under the rice). We also analyzed the relationship between the backscattering coefficients of each band and the various rice growth parameters. The correlation between biomass and backscatter decreased with increasing frequency. L-HH is the most preferable channel for the monitoring of total fresh weight (r=0.97), LAI (r=0.96) and plant height (r=0.88) while X-VV was the best for grain dry weight (r=0.94) and grain water content (r=0.93). The results of this investigation will be useful in determining the optimum microwave frequency and polarization necessary to estimate rice yield.


text:
Delegate Gregorio Kilili Sablan (Ind-MP) said the Biden administration announced over the weekend that child care in the Marianas will receive $36.22 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding.
Sablan also disclosed in his e-kilili newsletter that the CNMI Department of Labor is getting $497,248 to speed up payments of unemployment assistance and develop an unemployment insurance program for the Marianas.
On child care funding, the delegate said the $36,220,162 will help child care providers stay open safely, keeping their employees on payroll and helping families with young children cover the cost of this service.
Sablan said that making sure pre-school-age children have a safe environment while parents are at work is one of his primary concerns as chairman of the U.S. House Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary and Secondary Education.
Sablan said the American Rescue Plan Act money for the Marianas comes from two sources—the Child Care Stabilization Fund and the Child Care Development Fund.
He said the Child Care Stabilization Fund supplies $22,282,113 to help providers in the Marianas reopen or stay open, maintain safe and healthy learning environments, keep workers on payroll, and get mental health support for educators and children.
The Child Care Development Fund, on the other hand, supplies $13,934,049 that may be used by the CNMI government to subsidize child care for families that need help, increase compensation for early childhood workers, and meet other care needs in the Marianas.
On funding to speed unemployment, he said that Congress set aside $497,248 for the insular areas in the CARES Act in March 2020 and that the U.S. Interior Department announced the award on Wednesday.

domain: politics


text:
United States District Court, W.D. Washington, Tacoma
ORDER ON DEFENDANT PRINCIPAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY'S MOTION TO DISMISS PLAINTIFF'S COMPLAINT
ROBERT J. BRYAN, District Judge.
This matter comes before the Court on Defendant Principal Life Insurance Company's ("Principal Life") Motion to Dismiss Plaintiff's Complaint. Dkt. 6. The Court has considered the pleadings filed in support of and in opposition to the motion and the file herein.
In this disability insurance coverage case, Plaintiff makes a single claim, seeking a declaration that the insurance policy between he and Principal Life "includes an extension of benefits for his life, " not merely benefits until age 65. Dkt. 1-1, at 4. Principal Life now moves for dismissal of the case, arguing that the application (as amended), the policy, supplements, and amendments to the policy explicitly exclude life time benefits. For the reasons stated below, Principal Life's motion should be denied.
Originally filed in Pierce County, Washington Superior Court, the Complaint alleges that on September 13, 1994, Plaintiff submitted to Principal Life an "Application for Disability Insurance, " and a "Supplemental Application for Disability Insurance." Dkt. 1-1, at 2. These documents are attached to the Complaint. Dkt. 1-1, at 6-8 and at 10-11 respectively. The "Supplemental Application for Disability Insurance" form has a section entitled "Other Benefits" and a box in that section labeled "Lifetime Extension" is marked. Dkt. 1-1, at 10.
On December 11, 1994, Principal Life issued Plaintiff the Disability Insurance Policy at issue. Dkt. 1-1, at 3. The policy is also attached to the Complaint. Dkt. 1-1, at 21-36. The policy provides, in pertinent part, that:
The policy ends on the Age 65 Policy Anniversary unless renewed. The owner may renew this policy on a year to year basis after this date for life if:
1. You are actively working outside your home full time at least 30 hours a week for at least 46 weeks a year, and
2. The policy is in force with no premium in default.
Dkt. 1-1, at 32. The "Age Policy Anniversary" is defined as the "policy anniversary on or next following the birthday designated. Example: If the policy date is June 5, 2001, and you are 65 years old on April 3, 2007, the Age 65 Policy Anniversary is June 5, 2007." Dkt. 1-1, at 25. The policy's "Data Page" indicates that "Maximum Benefit Period - to Age 65 Policy Anniversary." Dkt. 1-1, at 23. It further provides, in a section entitled "Entire Contract, " "[t]he policy, the attached applications, and any attached riders or endorsements make up the entire contract." Dkt. 1-1, at 34. The Complaint also has attached to it the policy's "Cost of Living Adjustment Rider." Dkt. 1-1, at 35-36. The rider indicates that it "ends on the first of: (1) Your Age 65 Policy Anniversary; (2) The Owner's written request to terminate it; or (3) Termination of the policy of which it is a part." Dkt. 1-1, at 36.
Plaintiff's Complaint alleges that on January 19, 1995, Plaintiff signed the "Acknowledgment of Delivery" form sent by Principal Life. Dkt. 1-1, at 2. This document, also attached to the Complaint, acknowledges receipt of the insurance contract. Dkt. 1-1, at 13. Plaintiff's alleges in the Complaint that he also received a document that outlined his coverage, and that was signed by his insurance agent on January 18, 1995. Dkt.1-1, at 2-3. Attached to the Complaint is the "Outline of Coverage for Disability Income Policy Form HH641" that Plaintiff received. Dkt. 1-1, at 14-19. The Outline of Coverage states:
READ YOUR POLICY CAREFULLY: This outline of coverage provides a very brief description of the important features of your policy. This is not the insurance contract, and only the actual policy provisions will control. The policy itself sets forth in detail the rights and obligations of both you and your insurance company. It is therefore important that you READ YOUR POLICY CAREFULLY.
Dkt. 1-1, at 14 (emphasis in original). This document also, provides, in part, "[i]f your Maximum Benefit Period is to Age 65 Policy Anniversary, ' and your loss occurs prior to that Anniversary, the Maximum Benefit Period will be extended to Lifetime' for benefits payable under the Disability Benefit section. Benefits will be paid as long as the loss continues." Dkt. 1-1, at 16. This document also has a box marked that states:
TOTAL DISABILITY LIFETIME EXTENSION RIDER. If the Maximum Benefit Period under the policy is "To Age 65 Policy Anniversary, " we will pay a proportion of the monthly benefit for Continuous Total Disability which begins before your Age 65 Policy Anniversary. Benefits ...

domain: law


text:
Aroma Housewares 6-Cup (Cooked) Pot-Style Rice Cooker and Food Steamer, Black ARC-743-1NGB
About this item
- Make sure this fits by entering your model number.
- Multi-functional use – whether you are in the mood for a hearty jambalaya, steamed veggies and rice, or even a fluffy cake (Yes, cake!) you can accomplish it all with Your arc-743-1ng cooker. The possibilities are as creative as you are.. Cord length : 38 Inches
- Item Shape: Round
- Included Components: This pot-style rice cooker includes a non-stick inner pot, an aluminum steam tray, rice measuring cup, and a plastic rice spatula.
- Fabric Type: Metal
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From the manufacturer
Striving to design and distribute a line of products that enhance and enrich lives.
6-Cup (Cooked) Pot-Style Rice Cooker & Food Steamer
Enjoy easy home cooking with the Aroma 6-Cup (Cooked) Pot Style Rice Cooker and Food Steamer. Restaurant-quality rice. Healthy steamed meals. Delicious one-pot dishes. Prepare all this and more at the flip of a switch! Aroma takes the 'cook' out of home cooking turning kitchen time into your time. Help the kids with homework, get creative at play time or pick up that novel you've been waiting to dive into. All while delivering hot, hearty and healthy meals the entire family will love.
Simple One-Touch Design
Cooking has never been easier. With the simple press of a button, you can cook incredibly fluffy rice in no time. We love this 'set it and forget it' concept and we know you will too!
The unique steam tray accessory allows for perfectly cooked veggies, poultry, fish, and more in one, compact cooker. Have a delicious meal without sacrificing quality any night of the week!
Whether you are in the mood for a hearty jambalaya, steamed veggies and rice, or even a fluffy cake (yes, cake!) you can accomplish it all with your ARC-743-1NG cooker. The possibilities are as endless as your creativity.
Everything You Could Need
This pot-style rice cooker includes a non-stick inner pot, an aluminum steam tray, rice measuring cup, and a plastic rice spatula.
Our Vision and Values
Listening to our customers is how we’re able to provide products that are convenient, innovative, and valuable. Ultimately, it’s how we provide products that offer life enriching experiences for our customers and their families-fostering greater harmony in the world we all share. Aroma’s core values stem from an unrelenting desire to create products that make your life easier, a whole-hearted dedication to the community and a focus on fostering meaningful and lasting relationships with others.
Enjoy easy home cooking with the aroma 6-cup (cooked) pot style rice cooker and food steamer. Restaurant-quality rice. Healthy steamed meals. Delicious one-pot dishes. Prepare all this and more at the flip of a switch! Aroma takes the "cook" Out of home cooking - turning kitchen time into your time! Help the kids with homework, get creative at play time or pick up that novel you've been waiting to dive into. All while delivering hot, hearty and healthy meals the entire family will love. Steam tray, rice measuring cup and serving spatula included.
Top reviews from the United States
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1. Wash rice a few times beforehand to minimize water spillage on your counter.
2. For the appropriate amount of water, fill water level to about the first knuckle of your index finger when touching the top of the rice (for jasmine rice). Plug in cooker (there is no on/off button) and press down button to begin cooking.
3. Rice will finish cooking in about 20 minutes. There's no warning except that the button to cook will automatically pop up to the warm function. Immediately unplug the cooker or the bottom of the rice will burn and be hard to clean. The warm feature is useless.
4. Do not remove the lid of the rice cooker right away or the rice will still stick to the bottom of the pot. It won't be burned a different color but it will still be difficult to clean without being soaked in water for over an hour. Instead, move the rice pot off the cooker burner, lid still on, and set it aside to cool for five to ten minutes. When you do remove the lid later to fluff up the rice, none of it will be stuck to the bottom, and the pot will be a breeze to clean.
And that's about it. Makes a good amount of rice for one or two people.
Will it cook rice? Yes.
Will it spray starchy water everywhere (i.e the floor, the counter, the cabinets, the wall, etc.)? Yes
Will it burn the rice to the bottom of the pot before if finishes cooking the rice?. Yes.
If you want to be annoyed and saddened every time you make rice definitely buy this rice cooker. Or spend a little more and get one that you do not want to smash with a hammer each time you use it. I wish I had. "Amazon" apparently never used this cooker before it made it an Amazon Choice.
The next worst is a cup+ of Forbidden rice. When I cook jasmine rice, the mess is mostly confined to the inside of the cooker, but I don't recommend using this without something behind it to catch all the spattering of starchy spray it sputters out.
In fact, I don't recommend this at all. I know that there are other brands of this size that are made exactly the same way, and they likely make a huge mess, too. The mandatory keep warm feature is not a feature, but a bug of a cheaply made product. It means that if you want to leave your house while it cooks, you can't. If you want to have it cool for use in other dishes, you can't. You have to stay home and set a timer so you can go turn it off (I keep mine plugged into a switch which is plugged into an outlet).
The worst part about this purchase, for me, was that I had and donated a perfectly good smaller cooker which did not make a mess and shut off when it was done, like you'd expect. I thought I would treat myself to something which cooked larger quantities. Which this does, making an even bigger mess.
Yuck. Just don't.
On the contrary, it's a breeze to clean and the rice does not stick to it! Even when the rice is slightly burnt it scoops right out. The rice-maker does spit out water from the little steam hole on the lid (when making rice only). I just cover the hole with a small heat safe tupperware container leaving a little space for the heat to escape to prevent the starch from getting all over my kitchen counter. Overall I am satisfied with my purchase!
Aroma Housewares 6-Cup (Cooked) (3-Cup UNCOOKED) Pot Style Rice Cooker and Food Steamer (ARC-743-1NGB)
Top reviews from other countries
It's hard to find one that makes one cup if rice, so the benefit of not throwing away 3/4 of every batch makes up for the potential for browning.
But it does start to brown the bottom rice immediately once the warm cycle kicks in. Unplug it right away and you'll be fine.
Now I'm going to glue a bell on the switch so I have some idea when the rice pops.
La vaporera lo malo es que escurre, entonces hay que poner algo para que no escurra al arroz que esta abajo, pero funciona super bien


text:
WARNING: The contents of this blog will make you never want to pump soap out of a bottle again. Intrigued? Keep reading…
Health authorities have been banging on about the importance of washing your hands since the first outbreak of COVID-19. Since then, hand sanitising stations have popped up in public spaces, encouraging people to clean their hands and protect themselves against the virus.
Many infectious diseases spread from person-to-person through contaminated hands. This includes gastrointestinal infections such as salmonella and respiratory infections such as influenza and COVID-19. From pushing a trolley to turning a door knob, person-to-person contact is unavoidable which is why it’s important to ensure you regularly wash your hands and contain the spread of the virus.
Clearly, this problem isn’t new, with statistics showing how appalling our country's hand hygiene really is. Hope the barf bag is ready, because these statistics are pretty damn disgusting.
- One in five Australians don’t wash their hands after going to the toilet
- Only 20% of people wash their hands before preparing food
- Only 30% of people use soap when washing their hands
- Elevator buttons harbour 22% more bacteria than a toilet seat
- 94% of bank notes have traces of faecal waste on them. Yuck.
Hand washing can reduce the risk of respiratory infections by 16%, so let’s all do our part to create a cleaner, safer and more hygienic community by regularly washing our hands with soap and water, or with hand sanitiser when soap and water is not available.
When to clean your hands?
- After going to the toilet
- Before, during and after preparing food
- Before eating
- After using a tissue or blowing your nose
- Before and after attending to sick children or family members
- After handling rubbish
- After handling animals
- When they are dirty
- After you sneeze or cough
- After prolonged use of objects known to harbour bacteria, such as mobile phones, door knobs and trolleys
How to clean your hands properly?
- Remove all jewellery, even rings, so you can reach all surfaces on your hands
- Wet hands with running water
- Apply soap (preferably using an automatic dispenser)
- Rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds
- Make sure you cover all surfaces, including the backs of your hands and in between your fingers
- Rinse hands, making sure you remove all soap
- Dry your hands thoroughly with a paper towel, a clean hand towel or an air dryer if you are in a public bathroom.
Interested in a more hygienic hand washing solution? Check out our range of touchless dispensers that reduce person-to-person contact, while supporting a local business.

domain: medical


With various claims circulating about the effect that immigration has on the receiving countries, this simple guide separates truth from myth.
Marietta Armanyous interviews Grant Lecky, winner of a 2017 Cybersecurity Excellency Award, looking at security alliances and other key cybersecurity measures.
$6,214 for one cancer treatment prescription? In Part II of this two-part series, Marietta Armanyous compares Canadian and American prescription drug prices, exploring why U.S. pharmaceuticals are so much more expensive than those of any other developed nation.
America is cracking down on drug deals… even the good kind! In Part I of this two-part series, Marietta Armanyous looks at why the U.S. Senate voted against Bernie Sanders’ Drug Pricing Amendment, which would have allowed less expensive pharmaceuticals to be imported from Canada.
China’s coal burning contributes a significant amount of the total CO2 and greenhouse gases in the air, but its government claims to be working towards reducing its emissions. Marietta Armanyous looks at whether China is actually making efforts to change its impact on climate change from a negative to positive one.


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Perinatal Periods of Risk (PPOR): Healthy Start, in collaboration with the Delaware County Child Death Review Team, conducted an Institutional Review Board-approved PPOR project at the county level.
The purpose of the PPOR project was to collect data and review fetal and infant deaths to better understand why infants are dying during certain periods of risk. The project has now looked at two sets of Delaware County data and will continue to monitor birth outcomes in our region using this framework.
The categories considered periods of risk are: maternal health and prematurity, maternal care, newborn care and infant health. In Delaware County, there were 13.9 deaths per 1,000 births in 2012-2016, which is a rate higher than in the surrounding a counties and a slight increase from the previous five year data set. Most of these deaths are related to risk factors in the maternal health and prematurity category.
The project focused on determining why black, non-Hispanic women in Delaware County have poorer birth outcomes when compared with other demographic groups, leading to a disparity in infant death rates. During the time period 2012-2016, Black, non-Hispanic women were about two and half times more likely than white women to experience a fetal or infant death (20.4 deaths/1,000 births vs. 8.2 deaths/1,000 births). Over the last several years, the project explored risk factors associated with maternal health, prematurity and low birthweight to develop additional strategies for reducing this disparity. These short-term and longer-term strategies can be found in the report under the Community Action Plan.
To learn more about the PPOR framework, please review this abbreviated graphic summary or you can read and share the full report. And for more information, please contact Joanne Craig, (610) 497-7344.


Rear and side-view mirrors used to be simple bits of shiny glass that let you see what was coming up behind your car. These days, they're full of all kinds of electronics that, unsurprisingly, can make them rather more fragile than they used to be. The Corvette C8 has fallen victim to this curse, with General Motors issuing a bulletin on the issue.
Update: 12/13/21 3:22 a.m. ET: The post has been updated below with comment from GM.
The problem concerns the driver's side mirror on 2020-2022 C8 Corvettes. As per GM's Techlink bulletin, the mirror "may have poor operation and appearance, including numerous lines shown in the mirror and a dim reflection at all times." The bulletin notes that the problem "may be caused by the installation of an aftermarket radar detector in the vehicle. Depending on the installation location, the aftermarket electrical device may cause higher voltage to the mirror."
Aftermarket radar detectors are often installed just below the rear-view mirror in the center of the interior. In the case of the Corvette, it is apparently common practice to tap in to a connector in this area to power the device. This then interferes with the power going to the driver's side mirror, causing the problem.
It's unclear as to the precise issue that causes the visual flaws in the mirror. One theory is that excessive voltage applied to the heating elements for the defrosting feature could cause cracking or other damage to the mirror, leading to the telltale pattern seen in the bulletin.
Alternatively, as seen in a forum post from 2020, the auto-dimming feature on the mirror could be the culprit. This consists of a special electrochromic gel placed between two glass plates in the mirror. The amount of light allowed to pass can be controlled by changing the voltage applied to the gel. If the wrong voltage is applied to the gel, this can cause damage.
The caveat is that this forum post does not contain any mention of a radar detector installation. Interestingly, others have had issues with mirror-mounted radar detectors blocking the light sensor for the system, causing the mirrors to dim all the time. A possible explanation could be that a blocked light sensor could cause the dimming system to run at an excessively high duty cycle, eventually "burning out" the electrochromic gel.
Either way, it seems that the "X1" connector that is commonly tapped into to supply voltage to radar detectors is not a suitable source of 12V power, as it can interfere with some electronics in the driver's side mirror. GM's bulletin instructs dealers should check behind the central rear-view mirror for an aftermarket jumper harness if the side-view mirror shows this type of damage. It also notes that such damage caused by the installation of aftermarket accessories is not covered under warranty.
The Drive has reached out to GM for further comment regarding the exact cause of the issue, as well as its prevalence in the wild, and will update as information becomes available. In the meantime, if you've got a radar detector installed in your C8 Corvette, consider checking that it's been installed in a safe and proper manner.
Update: GM has clarified the nature of the issue, with a spokesperson telling The Drive that installing a radar detector using the X1 connector "creates an issue with the dimming circuit, resulting in lines in the mirror and dim reflection at all times." Reportedly, GM has seen "very few" of these issues in the wild.
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Repeatedly in the Northeast - and indeed throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico - problems with an aging electrical infrastructure have been exacerbated by multiple storms dating back as early as the Hurricane of 1938; old utility poles and transformers that line the public way; overhead utility wiring that requires constant maintenance and repair; damage caused by falling tree limbs during storms; and power outages resulting in downed poles from traffic accidents. The public is then dependent on the utility company’s timely response to restore power when necessary by bringing in crews from outside the area to make emergency repairs. The cost of continuously repeating this process eventually is passed onto the American taxpayer.
The main problem within this region appears to be outdated infrastructure and the distance that wires travel from utility supply transformers to a home’s point of attachment; the additional length of the branch circuits within a home increases the amount of voltage drop significantly. Voltage drop starts at the transformer and cascades down to the farthest receptacle outlet.
Electronics are sensitive to voltage drop, and the overall performance can be affected by this poor power quality. Solar systems have been added with the intention to improve efficiency and lower our energy costs by reducing the amount of fossil-burning fuel to save the environment. According to scientists, changes in our weather are likely the results of global warming, with rising sea levels and warming ocean temperatures are affecting our weather significantly - as demonstrated by Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico.
In the United States, a lower 120/240-volt, split-phase system is typically used for residential customers. It is a multiple-source voltage system that provides dual voltages. However, 120 volts to ground, when used to supply 120-volt residential loads, cannot travel a very far distance over a wire from a utility supply transformer to provide reasonable efficiency. The National Electrical Code recommends a 5 percent limit for reasonable efficiency, but in most cases this limit is far exceeded.
Voltage drop is a major problem in housing throughout this region, most noticeable by the flickering of lights. It can cause electrical equipment to overheat and burn out. It is a leading cause of electrical fires in homes throughout the U.S. Yet not much has been done to address this issue.
In 1999, arc-fault circuit breakers were developed to help prevent against high-impedance arcing connections. In recent years, additional code regulations requiring more arc-fault breakers have fielded questions about the necessity and cost. With the increasing number of home electronics, including appliances, the compatibility with these breakers has been questioned, as the appliances are also sensitive to this poor power quality. Nationwide, it is costing contractors time and lost revenue through repeated callbacks by frustrated homeowners looking for answers.
Most infrastructure in other countries is buried underground and operates at higher, more efficient voltages, and codes require determination of high impedance that causes voltage drop. This type of safe circuit testing is not mandated here. These are all critical pieces of information needed to check the integrity of branch circuits.
On Cape Cod, the electrical system is affected by salt air and corrosion, which in turn affects the impedance in wire splices, causing additional voltage drop. Additionally, the electrical infrastructure in coastal zones is most vulnerable to higher wind velocities and cannot withstand these conditions. Modernization of the electrical systems will be needed to meet future demands.
In residential housing, functional checks are performed on branch circuits. However, this yields a limited assessment of the circuits’ condition. A measurement of the earth fault loop impedance is needed to determine how much voltage drop is present. A circuit impedance that is too high will lower the amount of available fault current needed to safely trip a circuit breaker. In addition, ground fault circuit interrupters that are required by the electrical code to prevent electrocution are also subject to this condition.
I believe we are not keeping pace with changes in technology. Modern electronics diagnostic tools will be needed to meet these future demands. This is becoming a major problem in housing across the region. Voltage drop is a leading cause of electrical fires nationwide and is a well-known problem across the industry, yet not much has been done to address this problem. Will we ever make the investment to address the deficiencies in our infrastructure?
Philip C. Waters of Pocasset is an electrical contractor.


PS1904 has a rouged silk bodice with crystals overlaying the top bust, the skirt is a mermaid shape with crystals bleeding onto the waist line.
Main Fabric: Full glitter fabric and a Power mesh lining. Stretch level is moderate
Lining: power mesh lining (95% Polyester/5% Spandex) Stretch Polyester lining.
Model is a size XS and is 174cm without heels
Item is cut to suit Portia and Scarlett size chart. Please refer to Portia and Scarlett size chart for the best fit. Colour may vary due to lighting on images.
By Portia and Scarlett


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America Ferrera was born on April 18, 1984 in Los Angeles, California. Of Honduran descent, Ferrera was raised in the San Fernando Valley. She signed with a talent agency at 16 and attended the University of Southern California. She made her film debut in Real Women Have Curves, earning the Jury Award for Best Actress at Sundance and landed the starring role in the ABC series Ugly Betty in 2006.
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Lacey Mosley was born on September 4, 1981, and grew up in Arlington, Texas. Throughout her earlier years, she was an outspoken Atheist. At age ten, she began dabbling in drugs, and at thirteen fell into it even worse. ”I was trying to figure out who I was and anything to separate me from my family, or to separate me from...
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- How long does Betadine take to kill bacteria?
- Is Iodine a good disinfectant?
- Is Iodine a disinfectant or antiseptic?
- What happens if you drink Betadine gargle?
- How long does iodine take to kill bacteria?
- Is Lysol a disinfectant or antiseptic?
- Do antiseptics kill viruses?
- Can Betadine be used as a disinfectant?
- Does Betadine need to dry to be effective?
- Does Betadine prevent healing?
- Which is better hydrogen peroxide or Betadine?
- Is isopropyl alcohol a disinfectant?
- Why is Betadine banned?
- How long can you use Betadine?
- What bacteria does Betadine kill?
- What if I drink Betadine?
- Is isopropyl alcohol a disinfectant or antiseptic?
- Does iodine kill water viruses?
How long does Betadine take to kill bacteria?
Sore throats ‐ Betadine sore throat gargles are proven to kill bacteria that can cause sore throats in as little as 30 seconds.
Is Iodine a good disinfectant?
Iodine presents broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, viruses, and fungi, and it has a rapid and substantive disinfecting effect .
Is Iodine a disinfectant or antiseptic?
Although less reactive than chlorine, iodine is rapidly bactericidal, fungicidal, tuberculocidal, virucidal, and sporicidal (184). Although aqueous or alcoholic (tincture) solutions of iodine have been used for 150 years as antiseptics, they are associated with irritation and excessive staining.
What happens if you drink Betadine gargle?
If signs get worse or last for more than 7 days, talk with the doctor. This medicine may cause harm if swallowed. If Betadine (povidone-iodine (topical products)) is swallowed, call a doctor or poison control center right away.
How long does iodine take to kill bacteria?
Iodine is capable of killing all types of pathogens including bacteria, virus, fungi, yeast, and protozoa. It can in fact kill 90 per cent of most of the bacteria within 15-30 seconds.
Is Lysol a disinfectant or antiseptic?
It is used as a disinfectant and antiseptic. Creosote is a mixture of phenols consisting mainly of cresol and guiacol.
Do antiseptics kill viruses?
Antiseptics are generally effective in killing or preventing the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
Can Betadine be used as a disinfectant?
Benefits of Betadine Antiseptic Solution: Promptly kills germs that can cause infection in minor cuts, scrapes or burns. Gentle on minor wounds and surrounding skin to support healthy healing.
Does Betadine need to dry to be effective?
A group of would-be mythbusters have confirmed the surgeons’ mantra that Betadine must be allowed to dry on the skin for a few minutes to have antibacterial efficacy.
Does Betadine prevent healing?
Povidone iodine’s broad spectrum of activity, ability to penetrate biofilms, lack of associated resistance, anti-inflammatory properties, low cytotoxicity and good tolerability have been cited as important factors, and no negative effect on wound healing has been observed in clinical practice.
Which is better hydrogen peroxide or Betadine?
Both the hydrogen peroxide and the Cinder Suds and Nitrotan were more specifically bactericidal for the P aeruginosa; that is, they were more effective at killing that bacterial type versus the S aureus. Betadine was equally effective against both bacteria.
Is isopropyl alcohol a disinfectant?
Isopropyl alcohol (2-propanol), also known as isopropanol or IPA, is the most common and widely used disinfectant within pharmaceutics, hospitals, cleanrooms, and electronics or medical device manufacturing.
Why is Betadine banned?
Background: In the spring of 2000, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a ban on the use of Betadine (povidone-iodine; Purdue Frederick, Stamford, Conn.) in association with saline breast implants, because data seemed to indicate a higher rate of implant deflation in association with Betadine.
How long can you use Betadine?
A: Betadine First Aid products are generally safe for daily use for up to 1 week as described in the product directions. If the condition persists or gets worse, or if you need to use Betadine® Antiseptic First Aid products for more than 1 week, stop usage and consult your physician.
What bacteria does Betadine kill?
BETADINE microbicides kill bacteria (both gram-positive and gram-negative), fungi, viruses, protozoa and yeasts. Microbicidal activity is maintained in the presence of blood, pus, serum, and necrotic tissue and is more prolonged than that of iodine.
What if I drink Betadine?
Ingestion can cause stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and burns of the gastrointestinal tract. In excessive doses, there is a risk for iodine toxicity, which can lead to kidney failure, changes in electrolyte concentrations, or other organ failure.
Is isopropyl alcohol a disinfectant or antiseptic?
Antiseptic. Rubbing alcohol is a natural bactericidal treatment. This means it kills bacteria but doesn’t necessarily prevent their growth. Rubbing alcohol can also kill fungus and viruses.
Does iodine kill water viruses?
Contact time, disinfectant concentration, and water temperature, turbidity, and pH along with other factors impact the effectiveness of chemical disinfection. Always follow manufacturer instructions. Chlorine dioxide, chlorine, and iodine have a high effectiveness in killing bacteria and viruses.