text:
|Publication number||US4734375 A|
|Application number||US 06/493,969|
|Publication date||Mar 29, 1988|
|Filing date||May 12, 1983|
|Priority date||May 27, 1980|
|Publication number||06493969, 493969, US 4734375 A, US 4734375A, US-A-4734375, US4734375 A, US4734375A|
|Inventors||Steven C. Charlton|
|Original Assignee||Miles Laboratories, Inc.|
|Export Citation||BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan|
|Patent Citations (20), Non-Patent Citations (15), Referenced by (22), Classifications (11), Legal Events (5)|
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet|
The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 347,265, filed Feb. 9, 1982, now abandoned, which is in turn a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 153,883, filed May 27, 1980 and now abandoned.
The present invention relates to the measurement of ions, in particular ions in aqueous solution, and to a test means or device for performing such measurements. The invention provides a quick, facile way of assaying such ions whereby results are available to the assayist momentarily after merely contacting a test sample solution with the test means or device and washing the test device. There is no need for cumbersome, expensive electronic equipment such as ion-specific electrodes, flame photometers, atomic absorption spectrophotometers or the like. Nor is it necessary to resort to time-consuming wet chemistry techniques such as titration and other laboratory procedures. The present invention enables the analyst to merely contact the test sample with a strip device or similar test means configuration, wash and observe any color change associated with the surface of the test means.
The determination of aqueous ion concentration has application in numerous technologies. In the water purification art, calcium concentration must be carefully monitored to assess the degree of saturation of an ion exchange resin deionizer. Measurement of sodium and other ions in seawater is important in the preparation of drinking water aboard a ship at sea. Measurement of the potassium level in blood aids the physician in diagnosis of conditions leading to muscle irritability and excitatory changes in myocardial function. Such conditions include oliguria, anuria, urinary obstruction and renal failure due to shock.
Needless to say, a quick, facile method for determining ion concentration would greatly enhance the state of these technologies, as well as any others where such rapid, accurate determinations would be beneficial. Thus, for example, if a medical laboratory technician could accurately measure the potassium or calcium level of a serum or whole blood sample in a matter of seconds or minutes, not only would such rapid results aid the physician in diagnosis, but also laboratory efficiency would increase manyfold.
Prior to the present invention, methods for determining ions in solution included flame photometry, atomic absorption photometry and ion-specific electrodes. The use of certain compounds and compositions which selectively isolate certain ions from the sample solution has become popular in ion-specific electrodes. These substances, known as ionophores, have the capability of selectively isolating ions from their counterions thereby causing a charge separation and a corresponding change in electrical conductivity in the phase containing the ionophore. Illustrative of the ion/ionophore phenomenon include ion assays utilizing membrane electrodes, liquid/liquid partitioning and fluorescence.
When two solutions having different concentrations of ions are separated by an electrically conductive membrane, an electrical potential (EMF) is generated. The EMF developed by such a system is a function of concentration or ionic activity. This phenomenon is expressed mathematically by the well-known Nernst Equation ##EQU1## in which ε is the EMF of the particular system, F is the Faraday Constant [23,062.4±0.003 calories (volt equiv.)-1 ], R is the gas constant, T is the temperature in °C. and γ and c are respectively, the activity coefficients and molal concentrations of the ion under study, the subscript 1 designates the solution on one side of the membrane, the subscript 2 denoting the solution on the other side, and n is the number of electrons transferred in the reaction.
In such membrane separation cells, the membrane can be a simple fritted glass barrier, allowing a small but measurable degree of ion diffusion from one solution to the other. Alternatively, a nonporous, electrically nonconductive film, such as polyvinyl chloride, impregnated with an ionophore can be employed. In the absence of the ionophore the film is an insulator and no EMF can be measured; when blended with an ionophore, charged ions are bound to the film and a small, measureable current can be induced to flow. Because the ionophore is selective in its affinity, and thus will bind only certain specific ions, such cells are ion selective. Any measurable EMF is due solely to the presence of those ions.
Thus, a cell for determining potassium ion can be produced through use of an ionophore specific for K+, e.g. valinomycin. In the presence of potassium (K+), valinomycin produces a conductive path across a membrane by binding and transporting K+, thus allowing a small current to flow. A reference concentration of K+ is placed on one side of the membrane and the test sample on the other. The EMF developed is measured and used to calculate the unknown concentration from equation (1). Because K+ binds to the valinomycin membrane, the conductive path only appears for K+. Therefore, the only EMF developed is attributable solely to the K+ concentration gradient across the membrane.
The current flowing across the membrance is so small that no significant quantity of K+ or counter-ion is transported through it. Electrical neutrality of the membrane can be maintained either by a reverse flow of hydrogen ions, or by a parallel flow of OH-. This anion effect can reduce the specificity of the electrode towards the intended ion and is an interference to be minimized.
A major difficulty in the use of such ion-selective electrodes has been the marked reduction of accuracy and speed of response over time. Further, small changes in ion concentration produce such small changes in EMF that sophisticated voltmeter equipment is required.
It has been known that certain antibiotics, such as valinomycin, have an affect on the electrical properties of phospholipid bilayer membranes (biological membranes), such that these antibiotics solubilize cations within the membrane, in the form of mobile charged couples, thereby providing a "carrier" mechanism by which cations can cross the insulating hydrocarbon interior of the membrane. Such complexes have the sole purpose of carrying the charge of the complex through the membrane such that a voltage differential can be determined between solutions on either side of the membrane.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,562,129 describes the use of porous membranes impregnated with macrocyclic derivatives of amino and oxy-acids in ion-sensitive electrodes. Materials used to form the membrane are glass frits and other porous membranes. Such electrodes are said to be effective in measuring ion activities.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,053,381, issued to Hamblen, et al. discloses similar technology, and utilizes an ion specific membrane having ion mobility across it.
Another known application of ionophores in ion determination is through liquid/liquid partitioning. In this procedure, a hydrophobic ionophore is dissolved in an organic solvent immiscible with water. Eisenman et al., J. Membrane Biol., 1:294-345 (1969) disclose the selective extraction of cations from aqueous solutions into organic solvents via macrotetralide actin antibiotics. This technique involves merely shaking an organic solvent phase containing the antibiotics with aqueous solutions containing cationic salts of lipid-soluble colored anions, such as picrates and dinitrophenolates. The intensity of color of the organic phase is then measured spectrophotometrically to indicate how much salt has been extracted. Phase transfer has also been studied by Dix et al., Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. Engl., 17:857 (1978) and in reviews including Burgermeister et al., Top. Curr. Chem., 69:91 (1977); Yu et al., "Membrane Active Complexones," Elsevier, Amsterdam (1974); and Duncan "Calcium in Biological Systems," Cambridge University Press (1976).
Sumiyoshi, et al., Talanta, 24, 763-5 (1977) describes another method useful for determining K+ in serum. In this technique serum is deproteinated by trichloroacetic acid, an indicator dye is added, and shaken with a solvent such as chloroform containing valinomycin.
Partitioning of a compound is rapid and effective between liquids, as shown by Eisenman, because of the mobility of the ionophore carrier and ions, which allows the transported species to diffuse rapidly away from the interface. Such a mechanism is normally impossible in the solid phase, because of the rigidity, immobility and essentially zero diffusion of materials in a solid phase.
Yet another approach to the measurement of ion activity in aqueous solutions utilizes fluorescent anions. Feinstein, et al., Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci. U.S.A., 68, 2037-2041 (1971). It is stated that the presence of cation/ionophore complexes in organic solvents are known, but that complex formation in purely aqueous media had theretofore not been detected. Feinstein, et al., demonstrated the existence of such complexes in water through the use of the fluorescent salts 1-anilino-8-naphthalene sulfonate and 2-p-toluidinyl sulfonate.
It was found that interaction of the ionophore/cation complexes with the fluorescent dyes produced enhanced fluorescence emission, increased lifetime and polarization, and significant blue-shift at the emission maxima of the fluorescence spectrum. At constant concentrations of ionophore and fluorophore, the intensity of fluorescence emission was found to be a function of cation concentration.
To summarize the background of technological developments leading up to the present invention, many methods are known for assaying ions in solution. Instrumental methods include such sophisticated techniques as ion-specific potentiometry, flame photometry and atomic absorption photometry. The use of ionophores which selectively complex with specific ions has led to three basic approaches: ion selective electrodes, liquid/liquid partitioning and fluorescence enhancement.
None of these approaches, however, affords the assayist simple, fast analysis results through contacting a test sample solution with a test means or device. The present invention, on the other hand, permits the assayist to merely contact the sample with a dip-and-read test strip or device of similar configuration, wash and observe a change in color or other detectable response associated with the surface of the test strip.
FIG. 1 is a graphical representation of the data using tris-2-ethylhexylphosphate as plasticizer, reported in Table 4.
FIG. 2 is a graphical representation of the data using di-2-ethylhexylsebacate as plasticizer, reported in Table 4.
FIG. 3 is a graphical representation of the data using Phloxine B as the counterion, reported in Table 5.
FIG. 4 is a graphical representation of the data using Orange IV as the counterion, reported in Table 5.
FIG. 5 is a graphical representation of the data, using Eosin Y as the counterion, reported in Table 5.
FIG. 6 is a graphical representation of the data, using 2,6-dichlorophenol indophenol (DCPIP) as the counterion, reported in Table 6.
The present invention resides in the discovery of a new test means for detecting the presence of a specific ion in aqueous test sample and to determining its concentration. The test means comprises a substantially nonpolar, nonporous carrier matrix which is incorporated with an ionophore capable of selectively forming a complex with the ion under analysis. In addition, the test requires the addition of a counterion reporter substance to the sample which is capable of producing a detectable response, such as a change in or appearance of color or fluorescence.
A test device incorporating the test means comprises an elongated support member, such as a plastic film, to one flat side of which is affixed the test means.
In use, the counterion reporter substance is added to the test sample, and the sample is contacted with the test means or device. After washing the test device, the presence and/or concentration of the ion is then determined by observing any detectable response associated with the surface of the test device.
The test means and device of the present invention provide rapid results, sufficient detectable response forming in most instances in at least a few minutes. Moreover, no cumbersome, expensive testing equipment is required in addition to the present invention. Moreover, it has been found that the color or other response produced in the test means is stable, in some instances for a period of days, such that a number of used test means can be set aside for reading at some future time.
Certain terms used in the present discussion should be mentioned. Thus, the following definitions are provided to clarify the scope of the present invention, and to enable its formulation and use.
6.1 The term "ionophore" includes molecules capable of selectively forming a complex with a particular ion to the substantial exclusion of others. For example the cyclic polypeptide, valinomycin, binds selectively to potassium ions in solution to form a cationic complex. Also included in the term are crown ethers, cryptands and podands.
6.2 As used herein, "substantially nonpolar" is intended as meaning that quality of a substance not to exhibit a substantial dipole moment or electrical polarity. In particular, it includes nonionic substances, and substances which are dielectric. 6.3 The term "nonporous" is intended to mean substantially impervious to the flow of water. Thus a nonporous carrier matrix is one which precludes the passage of water through it, one side to the other. For example, a polyvinyl chloride film would be considered for the purposes herein as being nonporous.
6.4 A "reporter substance" is a counterion which is capable of interacting with an ionophore/ion complex to produce a color change or other detectable response in the test means. Thus, the reporter can be an ionic dye such that when the dye is in its ionized state it is a counterion, i.e., opposite in charge, to the ion to be analyzed. Some examples of these are Erythosin B, and 2,6-dichloroindophenol sodium salt. The reporter also includes ionized form of phenolic compounds, such as p-nitrophenol, which are relatively colorless in the nonionized state, but which are colored upon ionization. The counterion reporter substance can also be one which can trigger a detectable response together with other components. For example, the iodide ion can produce a detectable response by interacting with the ionophore/ion complex in the presence of starch and an oxidizing agent in the test means.
6.5 By "interacting" is meant by coaction between a reporter substance and an ionophore/ion complex which leads to a detectable response. Where the reporter is an anionic dye added to the test sample, it interacts with the cationic ionophore complex leading to substantial transfer of anionic dye to the carrier matrix, despite the substantial nonporosity of the matrix, thereby producing a color in the matrix in response to the cation.
6.6 The expression "detectable response" is meant as a change in or occurence of a parameter in a test means system which is capable of being perceived, either by direct observation or instrumentally, and which is a function of the presence of a specific ion in an aqueous test sample. Some detectable responses are the change in or appearance of color, fluorescence, reflectance, pH, chemiluminescence and infrared spectrum.
The present test comprises three basic elements: a substantially nonpolar carrier matrix; an ionophore incorporated with the matrix; and a separately provided counterion reporter substance. When an aqueous test sample contains an ion capable of specifically complexing with the ionophore, the ion can then enter the matrix and the ionophore/ion complex can interact with the counterion reporter substance, thereby producing a detectable response associated with the matrix.
In order for the test means to provide a detectable response solely as a result of the presence of a specific ion, it is necessary that all other ions be excluded from entering the carrier matrix. This is because it is the ionophore/ion complex which causes the detectable response due to the association of the counterion reporter substance with the carrier matrix. Accordingly, the carrier matrix must be fabricated from a material which is both nonpolar and nonporous. Exemplary of such materials are films of such polymers as polyvinyl fluoride, polyvinyl chloride, vinyl chloride/vinyl acetate copolymer, vinyl chloride/vinylidene chloride copolymer, vinyl chloride/vinyl acetate/vinyl alcohol terpolymer, vinylidene chloride/acrylonitrile copolymer, and polyurethane. Of course, many other polymeric materials would be suitable for use in the present invention, and the identification of such materials would be well within the skill of the art, given the present disclosure. Preferred matrix formulations include plasticizers well known in the art such as diphenthyl phthalate, tris-2-ethylhexylphosphate and di-2-ethylhexylsebacate, used in the examples herein.
Likewise, it is required that the carrier matrix be nonporous and nonpolar, again because the ion should not be able to penetrate the matrix unless it is that particular ion for which the ionophore has complexing affinity. The concept of a nonporous matrix, of course, does not exclude microscopic porosity. It is clear from the foregoing remarks as well as the very nature of the invention, that some porosity could be possible, provided the analyte ion be precluded from permeation of the carrier matrix to a sufficient degree that no detectable response is formed unless the ionophore is present.
The composition of the carrier matrix in the present invention is to be carefully distinguished over prior art test means whereby porous materials such as paper were used. In that type of device, it is required that any test sample to which the device is exposed be capable of permeating the entire reagent area. Such test devices function on entirely different principles from the present one, and a paper carrier matrix is not considered as within the scope of the present invention unless such paper matrix be rendered substantially nonpolar and nonporous, i.e., such as by polymer impregnation.
Thus, the carrier matrix is one which is not wetted by water, i.e., one which precludes substantial penetration by the aqueous test sample. Moreover, it is intended that the ionophore becomes virtually insoluble due to being entrapped with the carrier matrix. The requirement of nonporosity of the carrier matrix is to preclude dissolution or leaching of ionophore as well as to prevent permeation by test sample components other than the ionic analyte.
The ionophore element of the present invention is indeed a concept which is broad in scope, as characterized by the definition of the term in paragraph 6.1, supra. It includes multidentate cyclic compounds which contain donor atoms in their cyclic chains. Such multidentate cyclic compounds can be monocyclic or polycyclic. Alternatively, the ionophore can be an open chain containing donor atoms. Thus, included in the term are monocyclic systems which are ion-specific, termed coronands; polycyclic ion-specific compounds known as cryptands; and open chain structures which are known as podands capable of selectively complexing with ions.
The coronands are monocyclic compounds which contain donor atoms which are electron rich or deficient and which are capable of complexing with particular cations and anions because of their unique structures. Included in this term are the crown ethers in which the monocyclic chain contains oxygen as the donor atoms. Other coronands are compounds which contain an assortment of electron rich atoms such as oxygen, sulfur and nitrogen. Because of the unique sizes and geometries of particular coronands, they are adaptable to complexing with various ions. In so complexing, the electron rich atoms, such as the oxygens in a crown ether, orient towards the electron deficient cation. The carbon atom segments of the chain are simultaneously projected in a direction outwards from the ion. Thus, the resultant complex is charged in the center but is hydrophobic at its perimeter.
The cryptands are the polycyclic analogues of the coronands. Accordingly, they include bycyclic and tricyclic multidentate compounds. In the cryptands, the cyclic arrangement of donor atoms is three dimensional in space, as opposed to the substantially planar configuration of the coronand. A cryptand is capable of virtually enveloping the ion in three dimensional fashion and, hence, is capable of strong bonds to the ion in forming the complex. Like in the coronands, the donor atoms can include such atoms as oxygen, nitrogen and sulfur.
Ions can also be selectively complexed with noncyclic compounds. For example, a linear chain which contains a regular sequence of electron rich atoms such as oxygen has the capability of associating with positively charged ions to form complexes, not entirely unlike the coronands and cryptands. The main structural difference between podands and the other two ionophores is the openness of the structure. Thus, podands can be subcategorized into monopodands, dipodands and tripodands, and the like. A monopodand, therefore, is a single organic chain containing donor atoms, a dipodand is two such chains capable of variable special orientation, and a tripodand is three chains attached to a central atom.
Some of the ionophores which have been found to be especially useful with the instant invention are tabulated herein along with the cations with which they are capable of selectively complexing.
______________________________________Ionophore Cation______________________________________Valinomycin K.sup.+4,7,13,16,21-Pentaoxa-1,10-diaza- Na.sup.+bicyclo[8,8,5]tricosane [Krypto-fix 221)4,7,13,16,21,24-Hexaoxa-1,10-diaza- K.sup.+bicyclo[8,8,8]hexacosane (Krypto-fix 222)4,7,13,18-Tetraoxa-1,10-diaza- Li.sup.+bicyclo[8,5,5]eicosane (Kryptofix211)12-Crown-4 Li.sup.+15-Crown-5 Na,K.sup.+18-Crown-6 K.sup.+Dibenzo-18-crown-6 K.sup.+Dicyclohexano-18-crown-6 K.sup.+______________________________________ Kryptofix is a registered trademark of E. Merck, Darmstadt, Germany.
Given the presence of the ion of interest in the test solution, it is the counterion reporter substance which provides the detectable response by interacting with the ionophore/ion complex. The reporter substance can range in composition from a single compound, such as a chromogenic counterion, to a mixture of reactive species which produce a detectable product when their reaction chain is triggered by the interaction of the counterion with the complex. Thus, it can be seen that when no analyte ion is present the reporter substance remains dormant; no detectable response associated with the carrier matrix is observed. Alternatively, when the particular ion under surveillance is present, it is enabled by the ionophore to enter the carrier matrix to form a complex, which complex interacts with the counterion reporter substance and induces it to associate with the carrier matrix and produce a detectable change in the matrix.
In the case where the reporter is a single compound, it can include a salt or other dissociable compound, such that upon dissociation a colored ionic species is formed. Depending on the charge of the analyte ion, an ionic reporter is chosen such that the colored ion is opposite in charge to the analyte. Also useful is a dissociable compound in which the counterion to the analyte is fluorescent. Examples of such chromophoric and fluorophoric reporter substances are the ionic forms of dichlorophenolindophenol, fluorescein and its derivatives, 8-anilino-1-naphthalenesulfonic acid, Erythrosin B, Orange IV, Phloxine B, and Eosin Y. Structures of Erythrosin B, Phloxine B and Eosin Y are given in "Aldrich Handbook of Fine Chemicals", Aldrich Chemical Company, Milwaukee (1983). The structure of Orange IV can be found in "The Merck Index", 9th ed., Merck & Co., Inc. Rahway (1976).
Where the counterion reporter substance triggers a mixture of reactive species the carrier matrix, great latitude is possible in selecting an appropriate combination of ingredients. For example, one system could be iodide ion, starch and an oxidizing agent. Such a system could be utilized in a test means in which the carrier matrix contains (in addition to ionophore) starch and the oxidizer. Iodide could then be added to the test sample. In the presence of an analyte ion, formation of the ion/ionophore complex would induce iodide to associate with the matrix, whereupon it would be converted to free iodine, thus indicating a positive test.
Yet another example of a reaction sequence useful as the reporter substance is one which involves the dissociation of a proton from a phenol, thus initiating a coupling reaction to form a colored product. The so-called Gibbs Reaction is typical of such a reaction sequence, in which 2,5-cyclohexadiene-1-one-2,6-dichloro-4-chloroimine couples with a phenol to form a colored reaction product ##STR1## In this reaction sequence R can be any 2,3,5 and/or 6 position substituent which will not hinder the overall reaction sequence. Thus R is H, lower alkyl or aryl, or R can form a fused ring system at either the 2,3- or 5,6-positions. By "lower alkyl is meant an alkyl group having 1-4 carbon atoms. Thus, R includes methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, sec-butyl, and tert-butyl.
Another utilization of the Gibbs chemistry involves compounds having a structure such as (III) as the counterion reporter.
The test means described above can be used by itself or it can be mounted at one end of an elongated support member, the other end serving as a handle. Such a test device can be held at the handle end, while the other end bearing the test means is contacted with the test sample.
Useful materials for the support member include films of a myriad of plastics or polymers. Examples include such polymeric materials as cellulose acetate, polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonates and polystyrene. The support can be opaque or it can transmit light or other energy. Preferred supports include transparent materials capable of transmitting electromagnetic radiation of a wavelength in the range of about 200 nanometers (nm) to 900 nm. The support need not, of course, transmit over the entire 200-900 nm region, although for fluorometric detection of analytical results it is desirable that the support be transparent over a band wider than, or at least equal to the absorption and emission spectra of the fluorescent materials used for detection. It may also be desirable to have a support that transmits one or more narrow wavelength bands and is opaque to adjacent wavelength bands. This could be accomplished, for example, by impregnating or coating the support with one or more colorants having suitable absorption characteristics.
To prepare a test device of the present invention, a small rectangle of the test means, i.e., a carrier matrix incorporated with an ionophore and possibly other ingredients, is affixed to an elongated support member having an upper substantially flat face, such as an oblong piece of polystyrene film. The test means piece is affixed to the flat face at one end, leaving the other end of the polystyrene to serve as a convenient handle.
The test means can be affixed by any means compatible with the intended use. A preferred method is by using a double faced adhesive tape between the test means, square and the support member. One such tape is known as Double Stick®, available from 3M Company.
The test means and device of the present invention can be adapted for use in carrying out a wide variety of chemical analyses, not only in the field of clinical chemistry, but in chemical research and chemical process control laboratories. They are well suited for use in clinical testing of body fluids, such as blood, blood serum and urine, since in this work a large number of repetitive tests are frequently conducted, and test results are often needed a very short time after the sample is taken. In the field of blood analysis, for example, the invention analysis for many of the ionic blood components of clinical interest.
The test means (and test device) is used by contacting it with the test sample in the presence of a counterion reporter substance, washing the test means and observing a detectable response associated with the surface of the test means. In a typical analytical procedure in which the reporter substance is first added to the test sample, a portion of test sample is placed on the test means for a sufficient period of time (such as several minutes). After that the excess sample, containing counterion not associated with the test means is removed, such as by washing in a gentle stream of water with subsequent blotting with tissue paper.
If the ion under analysis is present in the test sample, the complex of ionophore and ion in the carrier matrix will interact with the counterion reporter substance in the test sample, and a detectable response will appear associated with the matrix. Where the reporter substance, for example, is a dissociable salt producing a colored counterion of the analyte, an observable color will form in the carrier matrix. Where the reporter substance is a fluorophore such as fluoroscein, a fluorescence spectrophotometer can be utilized to measure the detectable response formed in the test means (here, the appearance of or change in fluorescence). Other techniques useful in observing a detectable response include reflectance spectrophotometry, absorption spectrophotometry and light transmission measurements.
When the test sample is blood serum, transmission techniques can be used to detect and quantify the presence of any reaction products, the formation of which serves as the detectable response. In this case radiant energy such as ultraviolet, visible or infrared radiation, is directed onto one surface of the test means and the output of that energy from the opposite surface is measured. Generally, electromagnetic radiation in the range of from about 200 to about 900 nm has been found useful for such measurements, although any radiation permeating the test means and which is capable of signifying the occurrence or extent of the response can be used.
Various calibration techniques are applicable as a control for the analysis. For example, a sample of analyte standard solution can be applied to a separate test means as a comparison or to permit the use of differential measurements in the analysis.
The following Examples are provided to further assist the reader in making and using the present invention. Thus, preferred embodiments are described in experimental detail and analyzed as to results. The Examples are meant to be illustrative only, and are in no way intended as limiting the scope of the invention described and claimed herein.
In the experiment described by this example, a test means was prepared and tested for its ability to quantitatively determine, as determined by reflectance methods, the presence of potassium in a liquid sample.
A solution was prepared containing the following components:
______________________________________ Final ConcentrationComponent Quantity (g/100 ml of solution)______________________________________Polyvinyl- 38.4 milligrams (mg) 3.84chloride(PVC)Dipentyl- 129.6 mg 12.96phthalate(DPP)Valinomycin 4.0 mg 0.4Tetrahydro- 0.87 milliliter (ml) 89.0furan (THF)Total value 1.0 ml 100 mls______________________________________ DPP served as a plasticizer for the PVC.
One ml of this solution was placed on a sheet of transparent, water impervious, polyester film, Gel Bond™ (marine Colloids, Inc.), and spread to a depth of 0.254 mm using a conventional doctor blade. Scotchpar 70 GAB 2S (3M Corporation) could be used in lieu of Gel Bond. Other suitable support member materials are Eastman A150 polyester and acylonitrile copolymers, such as those comprising about 70% by weight of acrylonitrile, 20-30% of methyl acrylate or styrene and 0-10% of butadiene. Other suitable support members include cellulose acetate butyrate and cellulose acetate propionate. A film of approximately 30 square centimeters (cm) having a 25 microns thickness was produced. The film was air dried for approximately 30 minutes.
For reflectance measurements the polyester film was then cut into 1 cm squares and the uncoated side faced onto a light scattering polystyrene support (white Trycite®) with 3M brand double faced adhesive.
Test samples for use in assessing the performance of the test means were prepared by adding KCl to aliquots of a solution containing 35.6 mM (millimolar) tris-(hydroxymethyl)amino methane ("tris-HCl") and 8.80 mM Erythrosin-B (pH 7.2). These solutions had potassium concentrations of 0.133, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.75, 0.9 and 1.1 mM, respectively.
The efficacy of the test means in detecting potassium in the test sample was studied. A portion of each solution sufficient to provide a dome of liquid was placed on a respective square of the test means film. After 4 minutes the excess liquid was removed by a gentle stream of water and the element gently blotted with tissue paper. The retained dye, associated with the test means, was quantified from percent reflectance (%R) measurements at 530 nanometers (nm) using a reflectance spectrometer. Readings taken on test solutions of 0.2 and 0.5 mM potassium concentrations were used to calibrate the spectrometer.
The readings obtained by this analytical procedure were in the form of % R units which were mathematically converted to potassium concentration using the Kubelka-Munk equation and the calibration values, (K+ units). The observed reflectance measurements and their corresponding K+ concentrations are reported in Table 1.
TABLE 1______________________________________Actual ObservedK.sup.+ (mM) (% R) K.sup.+ (mM)______________________________________0 62.9 0.030.133 40.5 0.190.2 36.2 0.240.3 30.7 0.350.4 27.1 0.440.5 24.9 0.510.6 23.0 0.580.75 19.4 0.760.9 18.4 0.831.1 15.9 1.02______________________________________
As can be seen from the data, the observed K+ concentrations based on reflectance measurements correlate well with actual K+ concentrations, thus showing that the test means is capable of providing a quantitative detectable response to each of the aliquots tested.
An experiment was conducted to determine whether the test means of Example 10.1 is selective for K+ and not interfered with by the concurrent presence of sodium ion in the test sample.
A test means was prepared as described in Example 10.1 except that it was not affixed to a light scattering support. Test samples were prepared containing KCl and/or NaCl by adding quantities of those salts yielding the concentrations listed below in Table 2 to aliquots of water containing 5 millimolar (mM) Erythrosin B and 50 mM tris-acetate (pH 7.2).
TABLE 2______________________________________Solution K.sup.+ (mM) Na.sup.+ (mM)______________________________________1 0 42 0 103 0 204 0 505 0 1006 2.2 0______________________________________
The analysis of the above-prepared test solutions was performed by the same procedure used in Example I, with the exception that the detectable response was quantified by measuring light absorbance through the test means at 553 nm. Three measurements were made with each solution and the mean value determined.
These were measured in absorbance units which were mathematically converted to potassium concentrations (K+) units, using the first and last entries as calibrating values. These readings and respective observed concentrations are reported in Table 3.
TABLE 3______________________________________Actual Actual Absorbance ObservedK.sup.+ (mM) Na.sup.+ (mM) (553 nm) K.sup.+ (mM)______________________________________0 4 0.063 00 10 0.062 00 20 0.063 00 50 0.060 -0.010 100 0.057 -0.032.2 0 0.547 2.2______________________________________
The resultant data shows the test means to provide a quantitative detectable response specifically to the potassium concentration of each of the aliquots tested, whereas no detectable response to sodium alone was observed.
An experiment was conducted to determine the utility of plasticizers other than that used in Example 10.1, i.e., dipentyl phthalate. Accordingly, test means were formulated using, as plasticizer tris-2-ethylhexylphosphate (TEP) and di-2-ethylhexylsebacate (DHS) respectively.
The test means films were prepared in accordance with the procedure of Example 10.1 using the following ingredients, in which the plasticizer was TEP or DHS:
______________________________________ Final ConcentrationComponent Quantity (g/100 mls solution)______________________________________PVC 40 mg 4Plasticizer 100 mg 10Valinomycin 1.5 mg 0.15THF 0.9 ml 90Total value 1 ml 100 ml______________________________________
Test samples for assessing the performance of these test means were prepared by adding KCl to aliquots of an aqueous solution of 40 mM tris-Cl and 10 mM Erythrosin B (pH 7.2). These solutions had final potassium concentrations of 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8 and 1.1 mM, respectively. One aliquot containing no potassium was set aside as a control.
These test samples were assayed using the test means described above. The procedure was the same as in Example 10.1 except that %R measurements were taken at 540 nm, and the spectrometer was calibrated for readings taken with those aliquots containing 0.4 and 0.8 mM K+. Tests were performed in triplicate and the mean values for each test are reported in Table 4, below, as well as K+ concentrations calculated from the observations.
TABLE 4______________________________________Actual TEP DHSK.sup.+ (mM) % R K.sup.+ (mM) % R K.sup.+ (mM)______________________________________0 39.8 -0.23 62.8 00.2 33.0 0.18 41.7 0.210.4 29.4 0.47 34.1 0.370.6 27.5 0.67 28.4 0.550.8 25.9 0.86 24.4 0.711.1 24.3 1.07 20.3 1.02______________________________________
The data of Table 4 is plotted graphically in FIG. 1 (TEP) and FIG. 2 (DHS).
The results of this experiment indicate that test means prepared using TEP or DHS as plasticizers were effective in quantitatively measuring the presence of K+ in a test sample.
Experiments were conducted to assess the performance of various reporter substances used as additives to the test sample. The reporter substances tested were ionic forms of 2,6-dichlorophenol indophenol (DCPIP), Orange IV, phloxin B and Eosin Y.
Test means specific for potassium ion were prepared as in Example 10.3 except that dipentylphthalate was used as the plasticizer. Test samples for studying the performance of the test means with various reporter substances were likewise prepared as in Example 10.3 except that four series of aliquots were prepared, each containing a different reporter substance in place of the Erythrosin B of Example 10.3, i.e., 10 mM of DCPIP, Orange IV, Phloxine B and Eosin Y, respectively.
Each series of aliquots was tested for potassium using the test means as in Example 10.3. Depending on which reporter substance was used in the test sample, %R was measured at the following wavelengths:
Phloxine B--550 nm
Orange IV--430 nm
Eosin Y--550 nm
The results of this experiment are listed in Table 5 and show excellent correlation between measured and actual K+ concentration with each of the reporter substances studied. The data is presented graphically in FIGS. 3, 4, 5 and 6 for Phloxine B, Orange IV, Eosin Y and DCPIP, respectively.
TABLE 5__________________________________________________________________________Actual Phloxine B DCPIP Orange IV Eosin YK.sup.+ (mM) % R K.sup.+ (mM) % R K.sup.+ (mM) % R K.sup.+ (mM) % R K.sup.+ (mM)__________________________________________________________________________0 59.7 0.06 52.3 -0.16 65.1 -0.1 64.7 -0.460.2 57.0 0.26 35.3 0.10 49.9 0.17 60.9 0.210.4 55.7 0.36 25.5 0.45 42.5 0.41 59.4 0.510.6 52.7 0.63 22.0 0.66 38.8 0.57 58.8 0.630.8 51.6 0.74 20.3 0.79 34.0 0.84 57.6 0.901.1 48.1 1.13 17.0 1.12 30.9 1.08 57.5 0.91__________________________________________________________________________
An experiment was performed to study the efficacy of ionophores other than the valinomycin of Examples 10.1-10.4. Specifically, the ionophore Kryptofix® 222 was used to make a test means specific for K+ and the ionophore Kryptofix K 221 was used for a Na+ specific test means.
A solution was prepared containing the following ingredients
______________________________________ Final ConcentrationComponent Quantity (g/100 mls solution)______________________________________PVC 38.40 mg 3.84DPP 64.80 mg 6.48Ionophore 2.40 mg 0.24THF 0.935 ml 93.50Total value 1 ml 100 ml______________________________________
Test means were prepared by the procedure described in Example 10.1.
Two series of test samples were prepared for use in assessing the test means for K+ and Na+. One set of samples contained KCl in aqueous 5 mM Erythrosin B and 20 mM tris-Cl (pH 7.2) to provide K+ Concentrations of 0, 0.1, 0.3, 1.0, 3.0 and 30 mM. The second set of test samples contained NaCl instead of KCl, and were prepared at the same concentrations. These solutions were tested in triplicate and the mean values are reported below. The reflectance readings and their corresponding ion concentrations are tabulated in Table 6 and 7.
The results indicate that the ionophore Kryptofix 222 demonstrates a specific affinity for K+ (Table 6), and a test means incorporating it provides a useful tool for quantitative analysis of potassium ion. Similarly, Kryptofix 221 (Table 7) provides a test means specific for, and capable of providing quantitative results for sodium ion.
TABLE 6______________________________________Actual Observed Actual ObservedK.sup.+ % RM) K.sup.+ (mM) Na.sup.+ (mM) % R Na.sup.+ (mM)______________________________________0 54.1 0.04 0 54.6 0.030.1 50.6 0.1 0.1 53.4 0.050.3 46.1 0.25 0.3 53.3 0.051.0 28.1 1.0 1.0 54.3 0.063.0 9.97 5.2 3.0 51.5 0.08______________________________________
TABLE 7______________________________________ ObservedActual Observed Actual [Na.sup.+ ][K.sup.+ ](mM) % R [K.sup.+ ](mm) [Na.sup.+ ](mm) % R (mM)______________________________________0 54.7 .10 0 54.6 .16.1 56.3 0 .1 54.7 .10.3 54.2 .18 .3 52.5 .471.0 54.7 .10 1.0 47.8 1.43.0 57.9 0 3.0 30.2 8.410.0 56.6 .14 10.0 28.0 1030 53.6 .31 30.0 18.6 21.5______________________________________
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|U.S. Classification||436/74, 436/79, 436/172, 436/169, 422/420|
|International Classification||G01N33/52, G01N33/84|
|Cooperative Classification||G01N33/84, G01N33/526|
|European Classification||G01N33/84, G01N33/52C2|
|May 12, 1983||AS||Assignment|
Owner name: MILES LABORATORIES, INC., ELKHART, IN, A CORP. OF
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST.;ASSIGNOR:CHARLTON, STEVEN C.;REEL/FRAME:004130/0830
Effective date: 19830512
Owner name: MILES LABORATORIES, INC., ELKHART, IN, A CORP. OF
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:CHARLTON, STEVEN C.;REEL/FRAME:004130/0830
Effective date: 19830512
|Nov 27, 1987||AS||Assignment|
Owner name: MILES INC.
Free format text: MERGER;ASSIGNOR:MILES LABORATORIES, INC.;REEL/FRAME:004797/0813
Effective date: 19870901
Owner name: MILES INC.,INDIANA
Free format text: MERGER;ASSIGNOR:MILES LABORATORIES, INC.;REEL/FRAME:004797/0813
Effective date: 19870901
|Sep 3, 1991||FPAY||Fee payment|
Year of fee payment: 4
|Sep 5, 1995||FPAY||Fee payment|
Year of fee payment: 8
|Sep 28, 1999||FPAY||Fee payment|
Year of fee payment: 12


text:
Sometimes I'm not in the mood to hem, or I want to use a fabric that requires a little more patience. When that happens I skip hemming and add a band instead! I knew I wanted a Blade Tank in Malone honeycomb, but because of the texture of the fabric it can be a little more finicky to hem so I decided a band would be a perfect way to finish my tank.
When the NSCS released I added a band to the bottom of one of mine so I could show off more of the print I used. For that one I did not make any adjustments to the pattern pieces: you can read about it on my blog post. This time I decided to shorten my bodice pieces from the bottom so that the finished length was about the same as my hemmed options. Because I did not need to adjust the length of my pieces to account for my torso length I simply cut my front and back bodice pieces a little shorter.
I use a projector to cut my patterns out so I used a long quilting ruler to shorten my bodice. I shifted my fabric to reduce waste, laid the ruler down, using the pattern hem as a guide, then cut. If using a paper pattern you can fold your pattern piece up by how much you want to shorten or shorten after cutting (but that creates more fabric waste). You can also leave the pattern unaltered, but that will create a longer top. I shortened my pattern about 2.25"
Next I sewed up my Blade following the instructions, omitting the hem. Once I was ready to band I lad my tank flat and measured across the bottom to determine how long I needed my band to be. I didn't want my band to be super tight so I cut my band at 88% plus seam allowances. My tank laid flat was about 26", so when I used my calculator to subtract 12% and add in my seam allowances (.25 x 2) I get a little over 23" but I rounded down for easier cutting. If I wanted a more fitted band, which would be beneficial for using the this pattern for swimming, gymnastics or other activities where you want the bottom to stay put.
If I wanted my tank to be exactly the same length as my hemmed ones I would need to figure out the height of my band by doubling the amount I shortened my bodice pieces by and adding in seam allowances. I shortened 2.25" and since there are 3 layers in a banded seam I would need to add my seam allowance 3 times. (2.25 x 2) + (.25 x 3) = 4.5 + .75 = 5.25. I decided I didn't need my tanks to be exactly the same length so I just cut a band as tall as my ruler, which is 6". I cut my band on the fold 6" tall by 23" wide.
Next I put the short ends of my band right sides together and sewed. After that I folded my band along the length, wrong sides together and found my quarter points. I also found the quarter points of my tank bottom. The front is slightly narrower than the back, so do not use the side seams as quarter points if you want your band even all the way around. Pin or clip the band to your tank opening, right sides together, then sew or serge around. Fold your band down and topstitch if desired.
Now go show off your fancy new Blade Tank!

domain: artistic


text:
Remote-controlled drones are not just good at spying on your neighbors, but also take stunning images, which now form a new genre in aerial photography. Social network Dronestagram and National Geographic have teamed up to announce the winners of the first ever competition dedicated to drone photography.
The 2nd place prize went to Jericsaniel’s “dronie” (a selfie taken by a camera-mounteddrone) in Manila, Philippines.
Site founder’s viewpoint
“Drone photography depicts a new vision of the world. It provides a new ‘layer’ between ground photography and satellite or airplane imagery,” says Eric Dupin, blogger and founder of the Dronestagram website.
Third place honors was won by Drone Capture System’s pic of the sun setting over the town of Annecy in south-eastern France.


Bengaluru, July 06: The resignations by 11 MLAs from the ruling coalition in Karnataka clearly shows that the BJP’s game plan is right on track. While last week two Congress MLAs resigned, today, 8 quit their membership. In addition to this 3 from JD (S) too tendered their resignations.
While taking into account all these numbers, one must also bear in mind that Congress MLA, Roshan Baig stands suspended. OneIndia had reported in May 23 that the BJP would be looking to bring down the House strength in order to form the government.


text:
Mostrando ítems 1-10 de 38
Effect of different tillage and seeding methods on energy use efficiency and productivity of wheat in the Indo-Gangetic plains
Conservation agriculture (CA) based crop management technologies specially zero- or minimum-tillage are being rapidly adopted by the farmers in intensively cultivated wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production systems of South ...
Potassium Fertilization in Rice-Wheat System across Northern India: Crop Performance and Soil Nutrients
Rice (Oryza sativa L.)-wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cropping in South Asia is under stress due to widespread removal of plant nutrients in excess of their application. We evaluated K, S, and Zn application to rice and wheat ...
Relay planting of wheat in cotton: an innovative technology for enhancing productivity and profitability of wheat in cotton-wheat production system of South Asia
Cotton?wheat (CW) is the second most important cropping system after rice?wheat in South Asia. Sowing of wheat after cotton is usually delayed due to late pickings coupled with time needed for seedbed preparation, resulting ...
Productivity and sustainability of the rice-wheat cropping system in the indo-gangetic plains of the Indian subcontinent: Problems, opportunities, and strategies
Rice and wheat are the staple foods for almost the entire Asian population and therefore they occupy a premium position among all food commodities. The era of the Green Revolution started during the early 1970s with wheat ...
Introduction and exchange of improved bread wheat germplasm in the eastern gangetic plains of South Asia
Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) yield must be increased in the Eastern Gangetic Plains (EGP) of South Asia to improve the livelihoods of poor farmers. The International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) and its ...

domain: geography


text:
Don't quit your day job: 50 Cent forgets 'Twelve's' Joel Schumacher on 'great directors' list
Aug 03, 2010 | 4:00 AM
Two movie premieres in one week were too much for 50 Cent. The rapper-turned-actor attended premieres in New York for "Twelve" on Wednesday night and "Gun" last Friday. But by the time he hit the latter event, he'd already forgotten crucial information about the first - such as the name of his director, Joel Schumacher.
"I've always surrounded myself with great directors like Jim Sheridan, Irwin Winkler, Jon Avnet," 50 Cent told us before drawing a blank. "Why can't I think of their names?" he wondered aloud, after failing to jar Schumacher's name from his memory.
Then, with a smile, the newly slim 50 Cent added: "This is the kind of stuff that'll get you kicked out of the film business - when you don't remember everybody's name. They're going to come out and say, 'You take your ass back to rapping, 50!'"
Judging from the good word circulating about his performances in both films, we think he's here to stay.
"Eat Pray Love" ... Drink Wine? Thanks to Brad Pitt, that's exactly what Julia Roberts, Javier Bardem and the rest of the cast and crew of "Eat Pray Love" did last Friday in Napa Valley. In town for a press conference at the Bardessono Hotel, a source tells us the movie gang was rewarded for their hard work promoting the film with a dinner at a private residence there. The home was decorated to resemble a Bali villa that's featured in the film.
Pitt, who produced the picture, doubled as sommelier for the evening. The renaissance man requested 48 bottles of a 2008 Fumé Blanc from nearby Robert Mondavi Winery for the 125 guests.
Oddly enough, Cuomo, who received $2,000 to sign with Branch Rickey's Pittsburgh team in 1951, got more than Aaron, who reportedly received a cardboard suitcase as a bonus when he signed with the Milwaukee Braves in the 1950s. Cuomo also did better than Mickey Mantle, who got only $1,500 when he signed with the Yankees.

domain: celebrity


text: Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida, under the direction of Ballet Master Vladimir Issaev ends its season with the return of Vladimir Issaev's exciting neo-classical ballet "Shostakovich Suites" and an all time favorite from Venezuelan choreographer Vicente Nebrada "Pentimento". Shostakovich Suites is an exhilarating choreographic piece by Vladimir Issaev, inspired by the music of this Russian composer who was a revolutionary in contemporary composition while suffering the brutal despotism toward talented artists during Stalin's era. "Pentimento", created by choreographer Vicente Nebrada, includes excerpts from Johann Sebastian Bach's Four Suites for Orchestra. The ballet is a bold, abstract work that is based on the art form of painting called pentimento. The artist changes his or her mind about the composition of his painting during the process of painting, and then changes it. This ballet applies the same approach to dance: the concept for the dances and costumes change throughout the performance. Using masks, flowing fabric and creative lighting to create a mystical effect, the piece develops through layers of movement, color and light. Adding to mystical effects is original costuming by Cristina Gianinni.


A bright idea.
Smart tunable white and colour LED lighting.
A seamless introduction to smart lighting. Experience the richest, most vibrant colours and a wide range of white temperatures with simple personalised control.
PLAY THE VIDEO
It’s as easy as changing a light bulb. Gain full control over the light in your life. Set the mood. Change the ambience. Feel different. This is what Netatmo Essentials can do.
Improve your well-being, concentration, sleep and mood.
The sun is a great regulator of our mind and our body, so Nanoleaf recreated that experience for you to enjoy inside your own home. Circadian Lighting automatically adjusts your lights to match the colour temperature based on the time of day. This helps to balance your natural circadian rhythm to keep your body ready for work, play or sleep.
One of the first Thread-enabled smart lights with improved reliability for a fast and stable smart home experience. Stepping up from Bluetooth to this upgraded technology means no more dropped connections and instant control, all with one compatible Thread border router (like Nanoleaf Lines, Shapes and Elements Controllers, Apple HomePod Mini or Apple TV 4K). Bluetooth control directly from your smartphone is also available.
Thread is a lightning fast, stable network technology built to elevate your smart home. Say goodbye to delays, dropped connections and hubs – and say hello to a smarter home.
– Change colours or create colour Scenes
– Adjust brightness and white colour temperature
– Set personalised Schedules
The finer details
Dimensions & Fitting
|Dimensions:||2.4 in x 4.4 in | 6.1 cm x 11.1 cm|
|Diameter:||2.38 in | 6 cm|
|Fitting base:||Bayonet B22 or Edison Screw E27|
|Communication protocol:||Bluetooth, Thread|
|Compatible Thread Border Routers:||Apple HomePod mini, Apple TV 4K (2nd generation), Nanoleaf Shapes Controller, Nanoleaf Lines, Nanoleaf Elements Controller, Apple HomePod mini eero pro, eero beacon, eero Pro 6, eero 6|
|Max bulbs paired via Thread:||30 on iOS with max performance | 8 on Android with max performance|
|Max bulbs paired via Bluetooth:||Unlimited on iOS | 8 on Android|
|Dimmability:||Yes (via app or voice control)|
|Average brightness:||806 lumens|
|Max brightness:||1100 lumens|
|Colours:||16M+ (colours and tunable white)|
|Colour temp.:||2700 - 6500K|
|Colour Rendering Index:||>90|
|Wattage:||9W = 60W|
|Standby power:||0.17W(120V), 0.26W(230V)|
|ENERGY STAR Certified:||Yes|


Flipfont™ changes the user interface font on your phone.
FBBlue is a Korean font with a mix of hand drawn geometric shapes and marked with a pleasant naïveté. It is both friendly and easy to read.
Last comments from Android Market
just bought it, looked for the install description or the app icon, couldnt find it, so refunded it; where the hell the install guide is,
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Find more Android apps and games
Androlicious.com is a website that shows applications and games from Android Market. You can download and install apps and games directly from Android Market using an Android phone or by using WebConnect mobile application.


text:
Dates are native to hot, dry desert regions of the world, particularly the Middle East and North Africa. In the United States, date palms grow abundantly in the area around Palm Springs, California. Prized for their high sugar content, the semidry varieties of dates grown in California are naturally dried and used most often for cooking and eating. Medjool dates are deep red with thick flesh, little fiber, and a rich flavor. The concentration of the fruit provides just the right sweetness to balance the vinegar and curry in this chutney.
Chutneys add a depth of flavor when mixed with an assortment of grains or vegetables and make an ideal accompaniment when served over a rich-tasting fish or poultry.

domain: agronomy


text:
Journey to Nowhere
(Henry Holt and Co. (BYR) May 15, 1997)
, 1st edition
It is the spring of 1815, and eleven-year-old Remembrance "Mem" Nye is leaving the comforts of her farm in Hartland, Connecticut, to settle in the wilderness of western New York. Lured by the promise of a better life in the Genesee Country, Mem and her family set off in a covered wagon.
Here is the story of Mem's unforgettable journey as she becomes separated from her family and then, after being reunited, almost loses them in a flood. The book illustrates the hardships of travel in the early pioneer days, when the wilderness was more thickly populated with bears, wolves, and mountain lions than with human beings. As Mem helps her family establish a foothold in the new land, she learns the importance of community and strong family connections.
One of Bank Street College of Education's Best Children's Books of the Year
- Remembrance Nye (Book 1)
- 0805049223 / 9780805049220
- 13.6 oz.
- 6.4 x 0.8


text:
Kaleida Health Headlines
|Release Date||Article||<< Previous 30 Days | Next 30 Days >>|
|4/1/2021 1:18:42 PM||National Autism Awareness Month|
Kaleida Health joins the world in celebrating National Autism Awareness month. Autism is a complex, lifelong developmental disability that affects essential human behaviors such as social interaction, the ability to communicate ideas and feelings, imagination, self-regulation, and the ability to establish relationships with others.
|3/31/2021 2:17:29 PM||Enhanced Visitation Policy: Effective April 1, 2021|
Kaleida Health has updated its visitation policy effective April 1, 2021.
|3/26/2021 3:28:05 PM||WATCH NOW: Healthy U - Colonoscopy: A Lifesaving Tool|
If you missed the live "Healthy U - Colonoscopy: A Lifesaving Tool" on March 25 with Dr. Timothy Adams, a recording is available to watch.
|3/24/2021 12:27:11 PM||Oishei Children’s Hospital and the Buffalo Prenatal-Perinatal Network Launch Fatherhood Training Program to Support New Dads|
The Buffalo Prenatal-Perinatal Network and Oishei Children’s Hospital today announced the launch of the Fatherhood Training Program. This initiative will provide much needed educational resources and support services for new and expectant fathers.
|3/24/2021 11:57:50 AM||Gates Vascular Institute Broadcasts Live Case to Japan and South Korea in Teaching Demonstration|
Gates Vascular Institute, in partnership with the Jacobs Institute and a medical device company, today broadcast a live case to Japan and South Korea, reaching over 150 physicians and health care professionals. The virtual proctorship broadcast, led by electrophysiologist, Chee Kim, M.D., F.A.C.C., was a step-by-step demonstration of cardiac resynchronization therapy, in which a small pacemaker device was inserted to restore the normal timing pattern of the patient’s heartbeat.
|3/24/2021 9:01:26 AM||Medically Speaking 11-Day Power Play Special Edition Featuring Amy Lesakowski|
Hear Amy Lesakowski, co-founder and executive director of the 11-Day Power Play, explain how the fundraiser began and the various organizations it benefits including the Cancer and Blood Disorders Program at Oishei Children’s Hospital. Amy discusses this year’s event with host Mike Hughes, chief administrative officer of Kaleida Health and participant in this year’s game.
|3/22/2021||Drake Named Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Site Financial Operations at Kaleida Health|
Matt Drake, MBA, CMA, FHFMA, has been named vice president and chief financial officer (CFO), site financial operations for Kaleida Health.
|3/16/2021 9:01:50 AM||Hagerman Named Chief Clinical Informatics Officer for Kaleida Health|
Kristen Hagerman, MS, BNI, RN-BC, has been named Chief Clinical Informatics Officer for Kaleida Health.
|3/15/2021 9:58:02 PM||Maternal-Fetal Medicine Center Awarded AIUM Ultrasound Practice Accreditation|
The Ultrasound Practice Accreditation Council of the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) has recognized the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Center at Oishei Children’s Hospital as an accredited ultrasound practice through December 1, 2023.
|3/15/2021 10:24:47 AM||Buffalo NAACP Health Committee Hosts Virtual Event on March 18: COVID-19: Maternal and Pediatric Health|
On Thursday, March 18 at 6:30 p.m., the Buffalo NAACP Health Committee will host a free community virtual session titled, "COVID-19: Maternal and Pediatric Health." Oishei Children's Hospital's Drs. Sarah Berga and Fred Archer will both be guest speakers during the event.
|3/15/2021 9:58:06 AM||WNY COVID Working Group: Notes on the Vaccines|
The WNY COVID Working Group - a group of more than 20 healthcare and health-related organizations - released information today about the COVID-19 vaccines.
|3/11/2021 9:24:47 AM||Kaleida Health Family Planning Center Awarded Best STD Testing Organization in Buffalo by Testing.com|
Testing.com, a trusted informational guide for medical lab testing and at-home screening, has recognized the Kaleida Health Family Planning Center as one of the best community-based organizations in Buffalo for providing vital services, such as free or low-cost STD testing and treatment, to fight the growing STD epidemic.
|3/11/2021 8:30:00 AM||Gates Vascular Institute Celebrates Landmark 2,000th Transcatheter Heart Valve Procedure|
The structural heart team at Gates Vascular Institute recently completed their 2,000th transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedure, a significant innovation that has shifted valve replacement from operating room to catheterization lab, dramatically reducing procedure and recovery times as well as mortality risk for thousands of patients with heart valve disease.
<< Previous 30 Days | Next 30 Days >>

domain: medical


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A fantastic set of Indian wooden printing blocks, the set contains 6 Paisley designs *please be aware the small blocks may vary*
This block printing set is worth £39.00 if all the blocks were purchased separately, and each set is contained in plastic protective box.
The printing blocks in this set have been selected as they can be used all together to create a pattern or separately when used for printing on Fabric, Card, Papers and Clay. All the blocks in the set are extremely versatile and there is endless fun to be had in exploring different ways to use the mixture of designs for hand printing with!
The blocks in this set range from approx 2cm to 8 cm


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By Julia Williams
The wildfire season is really heating up. Wildfires wreak havoc on the land, on people’s homes and businesses, and their pets too. According to U.S. Fire Administration statistics, wildfires torch 4 to 9 million acres every year, forcing all living things in their path to flee for their lives. Residents must evacuate not knowing if they will have a home to come back to when the fire danger has passed.
Although our first thought might not be about the pets of wildfire evacuees, the devastation affects not only them but the area’s animal shelters, rescue groups and pet food stores. Shelters scramble to find enough space for the influx of newly homeless pets that need a safe place to stay until the evacuees can return to their homes. The shelters also scramble to find enough food to feed these pets, since many of their owners are facing loss of property or business income and are unable to help with the cost of caring for their pets during this difficult time.
Thankfully, compassionate pet food companies like CANIDAE exist, companies who quickly answer the call for help and get huge pallets of food delivered where it’s needed most. Last week, it was needed in northern New Mexico, where the Las Conchas Fire started on June 26 near Los Alamos. This wildfire is New Mexico’s largest to date; it’s scorched nearly 150,000 acres thus far, and is still burning today. So far, more than 400 homes were threatened by the fire, and 63 homes were destroyed.
I spoke with Lisa Gipe, the Shelter Manager at Espanola Valley Humane Society, who informed me that the residents of Las Alamos are now being allowed back into the area. When the wildfire swept through the area last week, her shelter took in a staggering 108 pets of the evacuees in just a few short days.
To make room for this large influx of temporary guests, the shelter staff found foster homes for their resident pets. Lisa explained that it works better to keep the evacuated pets housed at the shelter instead of fostering them out, because it’s less traumatic for the pets and much easier to coordinate their care. Keeping the evacuated pets at the shelter also allows the owners to come in and spend some time with their pets if they can. This helps both the pet and their owner to not feel so stressed out during this challenging time.
As you can imagine, providing enough food for all of these suddenly homeless pets is not an easy feat. Lisa said her shelter quickly ran through the food they had on hand for their resident pets, and they were very much in need of aid. “The large donation of pet food we received from CANIDAE helped us tremendously,” she said. “We were so relieved that we wouldn’t have to worry about being able to feed the evacuees’ pets. We’re very grateful to CANIDAE for their support and generosity.”
Nina Chiotasso, a shelter employee involved in community outreach for the Espanola Valley Humane Society, posted updates on their website about the wildfire and subsequent aftermath. In one update she thanked all of the shelter’s supporters, whose donations of money and pet food would help them offset some of the cost of caring for the evacuated pets, which she estimated was about $120 for each animal. “Before this, we had to take weekly inventory to make sure we had enough food and litter for the coming week, and right now we do not need to worry about that. Our food sheds are full and our animals are comfortably bedded,” she said.
As the residents of Los Alamos, New Mexico can attest, wildfires are wickedly destructive beasts that can change lives forever. The greatest threat of the Las Conchas Wildfire may be over, but its aftermath will linger. Fortunately, the evacuated pets were all kept safe and well fed while the fire raged. Although these animals don’t know who was responsible for their full bellies, I’m sure they appreciated the food nonetheless. Thanks CANIDAE – you rock!
Photo by Joe Duty
Read more articles by Julia Williams
The personal opinions and/or use of trade, corporate or brand names, is for information and convenience only. Such use does not constitute an endorsement by CANIDAE® All Natural Pet Foods of any product or service. Opinions are those of the individual authors and not necessarily of CANIDAE® All Natural Pet Foods.

domain: pet


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Index Chaotica (Background Books)
Index Chaotica are a series of background books published online by Games Workshop, beginning in October 2013.
Though the Chaos Space Marines were once heroic defenders of Mankind, each has sold his allegiance to the Dark Gods in return for surreal and twisted powers. The Index Chaotica series explores their fall from grace, their fell abilities and their bloodthirsty wars, along with the violent champions that lead them in their search for eternal glory.
Books in the series
Index Chaotica: Apocrypha

domain: literature


The Associated Press reports:
New York City’s buildings regulator launched investigations at more than a dozen Kushner Cos. properties Wednesday following an Associated Press report that the real estate developer routinely filed false paperwork claiming it had zero rent-regulated tenants in its buildings across the city.
The Department of Buildings is investigating possible “illegal activity” involving applications that sought permission to begin construction work at 13 of the developer’s buildings, according to public records maintained by the regulator. The AP reported Sunday that Kushner Cos. stated in more than 80 permit applications that it had zero rent-regulated tenants in its buildings when it, in fact, had hundreds.
The false documents allowed the Kushner Cos. to escape extra scrutiny during construction at 34 of its buildings, many which showed a sharp decline in rent-regulated units following the work. Housing Rights Initiative, a watchdog group that uncovered the false filings, says that made it easier for the Kushner Cos. to harass the low-paying, rent-regulated tenants so they would leave, freeing up apartments for higher-paying tenants.


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'The bigger picture'
Boxing transforms lives of Golden Gloves fighters from Sakwamdo Boxing Club
Keith Walton had trained to be a boxer since he was 12 years old.
When you are the son of boxing coaches, it is a natural place to be — and Walton was loaded with talent.
But after a promising start to his boxing career, at age 18, he was nowhere to be found at Sakwamdo Boxing Club, or any other club for that matter.
It was the beginning of a dark path that led to drug usage as Walton's life began to spiral out of control.
“A lot of abusing drugs, I am not going to lie. But I got past it. I don't want to be in that predicament anymore. It happens to a lot of kids, but you can get past it,” he said.
Coach Sakwam Heath watched in pain as Walton's life began to lose control.
“It was tough because we saw what he was going through. He had been training since he was 12 years old. It wasn't until God came into his life that he was able to see the bigger picture. We are so happy he is on the right track now, because there is no telling where he could have ended up,” Heath said. “It is a beautiful thing. God changed our lives and he changed our son's life. It has been seven years since he last fought. Now his life is focused. This means a lot to him. If he can dedicate his life like this, it is going to be a great benefit.
“It happens to a lot of people and they can hopefully see from him that you can change your life, through boxing or getting something focused through discipline.”
The biggest factor helping Walton drag himself out of the cycle of abuse is his 4-year-old daughter, Azaria.
“God gave me a lot of talent and I didn't want to waste it. Plus my daughter likes that I box, so I want to do it for her,” he said. “I am working and taking care of her. It is a different kind of motivation.”
So is winning.
Walton made it to the West Michigan Golden Gloves finals and advanced to the state tournament this weekend at the DeltaPlex in Grand Rapids. He is one of four Sakwamdo boxers to qualify.
“The last fight didn't go my way, but I am going to keep pushing. It was by points. It went the full three rounds. It was a good learning experience. I know what to do next time,” Walton said. “It means a lot, it really does. I love boxing. I have a passion for it. Golden Gloves gives you more exposure. It helps a lot of people really want to do something. Something just hit me one day. I have this passion and I have been here dedicated and sober ever since.”
Boxing is what is seen from the community, but Sakwamdo Boxing Club is a non-profit centered around giving people a second chance through a sport, relying on donations from the community to continue its service — which has been considerable in the Holland area.
“Boxing does save lives,” coach Ruby Heath said. “We have seen it with so many kids. We have helped kids who were bullied. We have helped kids who wanted to commit suicide and were able to prevent that. It has changed so many. We want to continue to do that work in Holland. If we save one, it saves a community.”
3 other boxers to compete for state titles
Sakwamdo Boxing Club will have four boxers competing at the Michigan Golden Gloves state tournament this weekend at the DeltaPlex in Grand Rapids after performing their annual volunteer service of loading tulips for Tulip Time.
Todd Sok, 25, a West Ottawa graduate, won the West Michigan Golden Gloves regional title last week.
“Boxing was something I should pursue so I decided to train for the Golden Gloves since I was in shape. I am just seeing where it takes me from here,” Sok said. “I was really relaxed throughout the day (at regionals), so that really helped. I brought that into the ring. My speed and quickness led to the TKO. It was exciting. I am excited that all of that hard work is paying off.”
Makaya Lathers, 18, is a two-time defending West Michigan Golden Gloves champion and is looking to defend her state title this weekend.
“It is always a good feeling to have knowing you did something and are trying to do it again,” she said. “This place means the world to me. I am here whenever I can. The sport changed my whole life.”
Lathers, a Black River senior, is planning to go to Lake Superior State to study fire and science to become a paramedic and firefighter. She had a walkover to win the title with no fighter in her weight class to challenge.
“It is always disappointing to prepare and not get a fight — but now you are prepared for the next one,” Lathers said. “There is always a chance at a walkover, especially as a female.”
Evan Moreno, 17, from Robinson Township, also had a walkover.
“This weekend I get to fight,” he said. “I have been working on a lot of jabs. The jab is what gets you in. You find your range with it, and once you start clocking with your jab, you can get your power in there. The jab sets up your other punches.”
Moreno said he got into physical sports from a young age.
“My sister used to beat me up when I was little. I couldn't have my sister beating me up,” he said. “I usedto do tae kwon do, then Greco-Roman wrestling, but my coach left town. I wanted a sport where I could compete and I found this gym and this is where I want to be.”

domain: news


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For some time, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) has refused to discuss at length Sen. Joe Manchin III’s demands relating to President Biden’s proposed $3.5 trillion domestic spending package, appearing visibly annoyed as reporters peppered him with questions about the moderate Democratic senator’s conditions.
In particular, Sanders targeted Manchin’s view on the role that the government should play when it comes to health care, child care and other programs, criticizing the senator’s comments uttered hours earlier that he “did not believe that we should turn our society into an entitlement society.”
“Is protecting working families and cutting childhood poverty an entitlement?” Sanders asked. After rattling off similar rhetorical questions, he concluded: “Perhaps most importantly, does Senator Manchin not believe what the scientists are telling us, that we face an existential threat regarding climate change?”
Sanders later insisted that “I’m not here to disparage Senator Manchin.” But the 15-minute news conference at the Capitol spilled into the open some of the private frustrations that Democratic senators have had for weeks about Manchin (W.Va.) and his conditions on the $3.5 trillion package — a price tag that Democratic leaders from Biden on down have conceded will shrink dramatically.
Also clearly irritating Sanders was the opaqueness of Manchin’s various demands related to the spending package, which Democratic leaders want to pass using a special budget procedure in the Senate called reconciliation that lets them avoid a Republican filibuster.
“Senator Manchin has been extremely critical of the $3.5 trillion proposal that many of us support,” Sanders said. “The time is long overdue for him to tell us with specificity — not generalities, but beyond generalities, with specificity — what he wants and what he does not want, and to explain that to the people of West Virginia and America.”
He later added that “it’s not good enough to be vague” and that a few outliers in the Democratic caucus should not have such power to sway what most Democratic lawmakers and what Biden want.
“I could, in five minutes, go to Chuck Schumer, the Senate majority leader, and say, ‘Chuck, I can’t support this bill unless you have a Medicare-for-all provision.’ But I’m not going to do that,” Sanders said. “It is wrong and it is really not playing fair that one or two people think that they should be able to stop what 48 members of the Democratic caucus want, what the American people want, what the president of the United States wants.”
He added: “Two people do not have a right to sabotage.”
Responding to Sanders, Manchin said in a statement, “Respectfully, Senator Sanders and I share very different policy and political beliefs. As he and I have discussed, Senator Sanders believes America should be moving towards an entitlement society while I believe we should have a compassionate and rewarding society.”
Sanders also said he would “absolutely” like to see more specific demands from Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.), the other pivotal moderate who has perhaps been more secretive in public about her views on the reconciliation package. But the bulk of Sanders’s frustration was clearly reserved for Manchin.
In his news conference Wednesday, Sanders also made clear that he was not willing to concede that the agreed-upon top-line spending level of $3.5 trillion would have to come down, even as Biden has been telling Democratic lawmakers in recent days that the package will have to shrink to about $2 trillion.


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What is surgery?
Surgery is a method of treatment that physically removes tissue from specific sites in the body. Cancer cells, tumours and surrounding tissue are cut away using instruments like scalpels or lasers.
Many cancers, especially if detected early, can be successfully treated in this way. The other two main methods of treating cancer are:
* Radiotherapy - High energy radiation is used to destroy cancer cells in a particular part of the body.
* Chemotherapy - Anti-cancer drugs are given as tablets or injections so they can circulate throughout the body. These drugs are capable of killing or damaging cancer cells wherever they may be found.
Surgery is often the treatment of choice for many solid tumours such as cancers of the bowel, breast, head and neck as well as many other solid tumours.
The surgeon uses a small sharp knife called a scalpel to cut away cancer cells or tumours from the body while the patient is under local or general anaesthetic. (See Pg 9). A margin of normal tissue surrounding the cancer is also included and frequently, a sample from the adjoining lymph glands (also called lymph nodes). For example, some lymph glands under the arm are often removed during surgery for breast cancer. Lymph glands are filters for the removal of harmful agents like bacteria and toxins as well as cancer cells.
All the tissue removed is sent to the laboratory to be analysed for the presence of cancer cells. The doctor can determine from the results what further treatments, if any, need to be planned. If the lymph glands are found to be positive (contain cancer cells), the cancer has spread beyond the organ in which it originated.
What is surgery?


Man Shot Multiple Times In Northwest Baltimore On Christmas Eve
BALTIMORE (WJZ)— Baltimore City are investigating a shooting on Christmas Eve in Northwest Baltimore.
Officers responded to the 3800-block of W. Belvedere Avenue around 11:35 p.m. Tuesday and found a 36-year-old man with multiple gunshot wounds to his body.
He was transported to an area hospital for treatment.
Detectives from the Northwest District are investigating this incident.
Anyone with information is asked to call 410-396-2466.
Other Local News:
- Amtrak Threatens Shutdown If Congress Does’t Act
- Carjacking Suspect Who Crashed Into Ft. Meade Gate Hid In Storm Drain Overnight
- Mayor Talks About Baltimore’s Future As Freddie Gray Trials Loom
- Environmentalists Return From 30-Day Kayak Voyage On Delmarva & Chesapeake Waterways
- Lana Del Ray Vinyl Mix-Up Brings Baltimore Band National Attention


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domain: design


I am looking for a flat top M4 upper with standard front sight tower. Barrel must be threaded, and can be 14.5-16" long. Will consider 14.5" barrels w/ permanantly attached FH. Don't need B/C/CH or carry handle. Will consider uppers with flip-up sights. Thanks!
Will buy outright, or I have the following guns to trade for the M4 upper:
-Glock 27 .40 cal
-Ruger Blackhawk .357
-Ruger Single Six .22LR/Mag
-Ruger Super Redhawk .44 w/ 2x Leupold
-Ruger Mark II .22LR 4" w/ fixed sights
-Rock River 16" SS bull barrel upper 1/8


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Midnight Pain - Poem by Soul Writter
Its 2: 30am I sit here look out. the window stare at the stars. And remember those cold nights that lingered in my mind those kisses that meant so much but then yet a little bit. My eyes are dried from all those tears that I cried, I cried you the seven seas, I got on my knees and told you oh baby please don't leave I begged for you to stay and I also got on my knees and pleaded for your attention and affection and a reason why your love for me had finished and you just turned your back at me and walked away, my face fell on the floor as I couldn't keep on holding my tears no more. I began sobbing your absence, my heart got shredded into 2million pieces, my flesh was weak, and my soul was hurting, my mind was running faster than a lion running for its pray. I felt crippled and useless without your love ' I loved you so much and trusted you like a poor innocent child and for what, you only destroyed my heart took it out and hanged it on the wall.. as I finish my testimony' I got to say this.. love is red, I was once blue for you. My heart has been healing slowly and turned dark for you. No I don't hate you I forgive you but I do feel sorry for you because you'll want me back sooner than later when we walk in different shoes. God bless you amen.
Comments about Midnight Pain by Soul Writter
Read this poem in other languages
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
- Still I RiseMaya Angelou
- The Road Not TakenRobert Frost
- If You Forget MePablo Neruda
- DreamsLangston Hughes
- Annabel LeeEdgar Allan Poe
- IfRudyard Kipling
- Stopping By Woods On A Snowy EveningRobert Frost
- Do Not Stand At My Grave And WeepMary Elizabeth Frye
- I Do Not Love You Except Because I Love YouPablo Neruda
- TelevisionRoald Dahl


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Weekly Gem #126 Angelic Gazebo
Location: This 'hidden gem' is located in the Fredricksgade circle in Copenhagen, Denmark (see the Clue Me! Map). The "Marble Church" (officially Frederick's Church) is a gem that almost didn't happen.
Started in 1749, they were just getting momentum when the lead architect died. The second architect felt the design wasn't grand enough, proposed something far too grand (i.e. radically over budget), and when his own design wasn't approved, pushed the whole project to his back burner. A dozen years later, with almost nothing done and a new king, the plug was pulled. Fast forward 30 years, the decision was made to resume. A new architect produced new plans. Got the go-ahead. Died. The plug was pulled. Fast forward 70 more years. The partially built marble walls were literally a moss and grass-covered ruin. Finally a person who wanted to build houses nearby was given approval to do so on the condition that he also complete Frederick's Church. He finished 20 years later, almost 150 years after the foundation stone was laid.
In the end, the marble church turned out to be beautiful, inside and out. For those who want a unique view of Copenhagen, they can make their way up to the gazebo atop the dome (although access is limited and there is a fee). That is a very interesting climb in itself, working through the inside of the dome (which has quite a number of historical artifacts in view), then up some extremely narrow, steep, and well-worn steps to the top. It is one of the few places where visitors can get a bird's-eye view of the imposing equestrienne statue of Frederik V (standing about 40 feet tall) that is just down the street.
It took a long while, but the result was good.
Here's the hidden gem entry from our Clue Me! map.
The open platform at the top of the Marble Church, from which you see all of Copenhagen
Why It's Interesting
Looking at the dome from the inside and outside, you wouldn’t necessarily think there’s a large space inside the dome where people can walk the entire circumference. That large space leads upwards through a series of winding steps that quickly becoming very steep and cramped. The view is spectacular once you reach the top. The space in the dome also has quite a few interesting historical artifacts.


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Prison is supposed to be an awful place where inmates live their whole lives in dark, dark cells with the torturous behavior of prison guards. But all these things go way back now. Advancing an inspiring work culture is much like what Jaipur Central Prison is focusing on with other prisons to come. Located at Jaipur Agra Road near Ghat Gate, Jaipur Central Jail is completely a Sudhar Grah that transforms the lives of inmates by imparting vocational skills with the aim of getting a better life after their release. The unique initiative of Jaipur Central Jail, Aashayein, the first prison shop of its kind in Rajasthan where artifacts are made by prisoners under the training of master craftsmen and renowned designers like an expert in the textile industry Martand Singh, painter Yashwant Shrivastav, leading fashion designers Bibi Russell from Bangladesh, design duo Abraham and Thakore, and professors from the National Institute of Design in Ahmedabad, among others. The store was inaugurated by Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje Scindia and Rajasthan Home Minister Gulab Chand Kataria. Located outside the prison premises in the city market, when I entered the store, the atmosphere was so splendid. I was fascinated to see the beautifully painted front wall by the inmates.
Most of the items in the shop were made according to the needs of society. The shop has two sections, one where quilts, bedspreads, tablecloths, lehengas, tote bags, skirts, tie-dye dupattas, towels, pickles, spices, jars, envelopes and handmade paper bags made by women prisoners are on display and in the section other products such as furniture, coolers, murals, carpets and organic vegetables designed by male prisoners were featured. These items are available at very nominal prices and the price range varies from a Rs 10 envelope to a Rs 10,000 mural. It should be mentioned that the prisoners themselves design their prison clothes. The items are designed not only by male and female prisoners of Jaipur Central Jail but also by inmates of Bhilwara, Ajmer, Jodhpur and Udaipur prisons. Not only that, near the Aashayein shop, the Pink City prison department, in collaboration with the Indian Oil Corporation, opened a one-of-a-kind “Aashayein gas station” in 2020, the gasoline pump which is operated by the prison inmates who were transferred here from various prisons in Rajasthan. The goal of the initiative is to provide inmates with the opportunity to earn money. The prisoners are trained by the Indian Oil Corporation and receive Rs. 300/- per day. Revenue generated from the pump goes directly to the Prison Development Council for various prison rehabilitation programs. In an interview with me, Jaipur Jail Superintendent Rakesh Mohan Sharma said, “We are successfully running this petrol pump with petrol, diesel and CNG sale of Rs. 11-12 lakh per day. After their release, these prisoners have the opportunity to work outside thanks to the training that we give them and the experience that they acquire thanks to these companies. So far, we have released more than 100 trained prisoners and they have engaged well in their hometowns, as salespeople in various gas pump retail outlets. The sole reason behind these initiatives is to occupy the inmates and help them earn a safe living. Prisoners sentenced to life imprisonment or charged with more than 7 years of imprisonment have the opportunity to work at the gas pump or display their products in the shop. The income generated is used for the welfare of convicts or the development of prison infrastructure.
Previously, these inmates, after a whole day of hardship, earned a very small amount of only 20 rupees as daily wages. But, thanks to the Aashayein initiatives of the prison department, these prisoners receive between 100 and 300 rupees a day. Thanks to this money, the inmates feel safe and also meet their needs with other family members. This pioneering effort by prison authorities is fully supported by the government of Rajasthan. “In managing these businesses, our goal is that whenever the prisoner returns to society, their integration into society is very seamless,” said Rajeev Dasot, Managing Director of Jail (Rajasthan). Gulab Chand Kataria said, “The initiative has built a positive image of the prison authorities among the public and a feeling of compassion for these prisoners has also been created. The strong involvement of prisoners shows their degree of satisfaction. The inmates at the Jaipur prison premises also produce organic vegetables and also make them available to the inmates. These inmates, based on their good behavior and involving themselves in these factory jobs, get a rebate from 4 days to 3 months and then have the option of spending time in open prisons as well. True to its name, Aashayein brings a new ray of hope into the inert lives of prisoners that will ultimately lead them to a dignified and stable life through the vocational skills imparted to them.

domain: law


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Mortgage rates rose slightly this week as low inflation kept interest rates fairly stable. The Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. reported that 30-year fixed-rate mortgages averaged 8.41 percent, up from 8.38 percent last week. The interest on 15-year fixed-rate loans also rose slightly, to 7.99 percent from 7.96 percent. Adjustable-loan rates rose to 6.41 percent from 6.37 percent.
Copyright © 2018, Chicago Tribune

domain: finance