In our recent full review of the Makita XDT14T impact driver kit, Steve noted that the world isn’t really desperate for another new impact driver. He’s right – there are almost as many impact drivers on the market as there are Democratic presidential contenders, making it hard to get excited when a new one comes along. After giving the little teal driver a workout, though, he was impressed with its power and some of its innovative features. In their relentless quest to offer even more control, though, the teal-clad engineers at Makita packed in even more features, and tossed the Makita XDT16 18V brushless impact driver into the fray. We’ll take a look, and see if these new features can have an impact on how you work.
Many of the specs on the Makita XDT16 are identical to those on the XDT14. Both drivers use an efficient electronically-controlled BL brushless motor. In case you’re unfamiliar with the benefits of brushless motors, they allow the tool to run cooler than a brushed motor, provide more power, and require much less maintenance.
The Makita XDT16 has four speeds and impact modes, vs. three on the XDT14. Both drivers can spin at variable speeds of 0-1,100, 0-2,100 and 0-3,600 RPM, with impact per minute (IPM) rates of 0-1,100, 0-2,600 and 0-3,800 IPM. The Makita XDT16 adds an extra intermediate speed and impact rate to the driver’s abilities: It can spin at 3,200 RPM, and bang away at 3,600 IPM, offering even more precise control over the tool. Have a look at the full list of specs and features on the Makita XDT16, and then we’ll take a closer look at some of them.
• Quick-Shift Mode™ uses the brushless motor’s electronic controls to find the best balance of speed and torque for each application for more efficient fastening
• BL™ Brushless Motor delivers 3,600 Max RPM and 1,600 in./lbs. of Max Torque
• 4-speed power selection (0-1,100/ 0-2,100/ 0-3,200/ 0-3,600 RPM & 0-1,100/ 0-2,600/ 0-3,600/ 0-3,800 IPM) provides precise fastening control for a wide range of applications
• Additional one-touch 4-speed power selector button under the chuck for added convenience
• Assist Mode (A-mode) feature helps eliminate “screw cam-out” and “cross threading” by driving at low speed until tightening begins
• Two Tightening Modes (T-mode) for faster tightening of self-drilling screws in thick or thin gauge metal; helps prevent damage to the screw or workpiece
• Reverse rotation auto-stop mode stops rotation and impact when fastener is loosened adequately
• Built-in L.E.D. lights on both sides helps eliminate shadows and illuminate a larger area
• Compact and ergonomic design at only 4-9/16″ long
• Weighs only 1.9 lbs. without battery for reduced operator fatigue
• Efficient BL™ Brushless motor is electronically controlled to optimize battery energy use for up to 50% longer run time per charge
• The BL™ Brushless Motor eliminates carbon brushes, enabling the motor to run cooler and more efficiently for longer life
• The electronically-controlled BL™ Brushless Motor efficiently uses energy to match torque and RPM to the changing demands of the application
• Features Extreme Protection Technology (XPT™) which is engineered to provide increased dust and water resistance in harsh job site conditions
• Convenient one-touch 1/4″ hex chuck for quick bit changes
• All metal gear housing for increased job site durability
• Rubberized soft grip provides increased comfort on the job
• Makita’s proprietary hammer and anvil impact mechanism is manufactured using the best raw materials with the highest quality steel and unique heat hardening process for maximum fastening and driving power
• Equipped with Star Protection Computer Controls™ to protect against overloading, over-discharging and over-heating
• Compatible with Makita 18V Lithium-Ion batteries with a Star symbol
• 3-year limited warranty
• Battery : 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion
• Power Type : Cordless
• Hex Shank : 1/4″
• Speed power selection : 4
• No Load Speed (var. 4 spd.) : 0 – 1,100 / 0 – 2,100 / 0 – 3,200 / 0 – 3,600 RPM
• Impacts Per Minute (var. 4 spd.) : 0 – 1,100 / 0 – 2,600 / 0 – 3,600 / 0 – 3,800 IPM
• Maximum Torque (in./lbs.) : 1,600 in./lbs.
• Overall Length : 4-9/16″
• Net Weight (without battery) : 1.9 lbs.
• Shipping Weight : 2.43 lbs.
Driving Through The Features On The Makita XDT16
Keen observer that you are, you undoubtedly noticed that there are a slew of features on the Makita XDT16 impact driver. Let’s get started with an overview of some of the basic features, then we’ll check out the sexy, high-tech smart stuff.
The first thing that’s apparent is how compact it is. One of the many sweet features of impact drivers is their ability to get into tight places, and the Makita XDT16, at just over 4-1/2” long, is about as small as they get. At 1.9 lbs. without a battery, it’s about as light as they get, too. Makita sent along a 2.0 Ah battery to use with the driver, and it provided plenty of power while adding very little weight.
Bit changes are fast and easy on the Makita XDT16. Simply push your bit into the ¼” hex chuck, and it locks into place. Pull outward on the collar, and you can slide the bit right out.
On either side of the chuck, there’s a bright LED light, which can be very helpful when you’re working in dark, cramped spaces. The twin LEDs are identical to those on the XDT14, and the thing that Steve was most excited about is the ability to turn the lights OFF. I’m inclined to agree – while the lights can be very handy when you need them, I invariably end up blinding myself with them the 80% of the time I DON’T need them. Toggling is simple – just push the LED light switch. It’s all about the control!
Getting A Grip On The Makita XDT16 Impact Driver
Despite its compact size, the Makita XDT16 is very comfortable to hold and use. Even with my largish hands, I had no trouble getting a good working grip on the tool. The tool looks good, and feels very solidly built.
The handle is covered with a rubber overmold, adding to the comfort, and lessening the odds the tool will slip out of your hand when you’re at the top of the 32’ ladder.
Another low-tech but handy feature is the reversible belt clip. Not the most exciting feature, obviously, but it’s very convenient for those of us with only two hands, and it’s a feature I frequently use.
Full Speed Ahead…Or Not
And now on to the “What can it do and how fast – or well – can it do it” portion of the feature set. If you’ve ever used an impact driver, you’re aware of the amazing ability these little tools have to drive large fasteners. My moment of enlightenment came several years back, and now an impact driver goes along with me on just about every job I do.
When impact drivers were first introduced several years ago, most had variable-speed triggers, and two or three speed/impact ranges. The Makita XDT16 has that covered, with a variable speed trigger and four speed/impact ranges, topping out at an impressive 3,600 RPM, 3,800 IPM, and 1,600 in./lbs. of torque. This means it has plenty of speed and power to handle even large fasteners.
There are plenty of impact drivers out there with good speed and power, though. Where the Makita XDT16 starts driving away from the pack is with its added control features. Impact drivers have a LOT of torque, and if you’re not paying close attention, you can quickly end up with a stripped or snapped fastener. Makita has some built-in functions that can help you precisely control the beast. Let’s check ‘em out.
The Makita XDT16 Impact Driver, Ready To Assist In T & A Mode
There are several modes available to help you harness the power of the Makita XDT16. First up is T-1 mode. T-1 mode is great for 20-gauge steel studs or other light gauge materials, and it’s designed to be used with self-drilling or Tek screws. The tool spins at full speed until it starts impacting, and then stops, to keep the screw from stripping the material.
Working with heavier-gauge materials, like 14-gauge header or footer tracks? Switch to T-2 mode. Also optimized for self-drilling screws, T-2 mode goes full speed ahead until the tool starts impacting, then slows down. This reduces the chances of stripping or breaking fasteners, but still lets you draw the materials together.
Driving long fasteners into wood? Switch to A (Assist) mode. A Mode drives the screws at a lower speed until tightening begins, which helps reduce cam-out and cross threading. When the screw has a good start, the Makita XDT16 puts the hammer down and finishes the job at full speed ahead.
Tired of chasing fasteners around the shop or job site when they go airborne after removal? Switch to Auto-Stop Mode. In this mode, the Makita XDT16 can sense when the nut or bolt has been loosened, and stops rotation before the fastener is completely free – and relocated to who knows where.
We Interrupt This Program…
To make it fast and easy for users to switch into a frequently-used mode, Makita’s tool designers added a handy button just above the trigger on the Makita XDT16. After holding a contest to name the sporty new feature, they came up with the catchy moniker “The quick mode-switching button.” Hey – they’re engineers, not marketing people.
Using the quick mode-switching button allows you to quickly change from whatever other mode you might be in to the mode you have programmed in, by just depressing the button. Pressing it again returns you to whatever mode you were in previously.
Programming the button is simple. Use the impact speed and/or mode selection buttons to put the Makita XDT16 into the mode you want to program in. Now press and hold the impact speed selection button and the quick mode-switching button at the same time. Hold them until the “customize” lamp (labeled C on the panel) and the indicator light by your desired application flash. Shazam – your program is set!
If your chosen mode falls out of favor, it’s easy to kick it loose. To program in a different mode, just repeat the previous steps. To ditch the programming altogether, just press and hold the LED light switch and the quick mode-switching button at the same time. The C light and the impact-force lights will blink, indicating the end of the program. When nothing is programmed into the tool, pressing the quick mode-switching button functions as a short cut to cycle through the four impact force levels.
Putting It To The Floor With The Makita XDT16
Project number one for the Makita XDT16 was firming up an out-of-kilter subfloor in an old house. A plywood subfloor had been added over the original tongue-and-groove pine subfloor, with shims ranging in thickness from 1/8” to almost 2”. Yep, this place had character up the wazoo.
The plywood had been nailed down, and nails were popping up everywhere. We pulled them out, and re-screwed the entire floor with 2-1/2” construction screws. Using a Torx bit, the driver sank the star-drive screws very quickly and effortlessly. We had no slipping or stripping, even though we were using a long extension, and we soon had a solid, squeak-free subfloor.
To test the driver’s power and speed, we sank a variety of fasteners, including 4” GRK R4 construction screws, 6” Timberlok screws, and a 6” x 3/8” lag screw. I sank several of the 6” Timberlok screws through four layers of 2X lumber. The Makita XDT16 didn’t break a sweat, and burying the big screws consistently took about five seconds.
Running the #10 x 4” screws in was even faster, fully sinking the screws in under two seconds. While I had the four-inchers handy and the T25 bit in the chuck, I fastened some 2X4s horizontally across widely-spaced studs, to support some upper cabinets being repurposed for my basement work shop.
Switching to shorter screws, I added new sacrificial tops to a set of steel sawhorses.
To test the might of the Makita XDT16, I chucked up a 3/8” socket adapter and an impact socket. I then ran a 6” long 3/8” lag screw through four 2x4s, with no pre-drilling. Even more impressive is that the lag screw was NOT a self-drilling screw.
The Makita XDT16 Goes A La Mode
Next it was time to get in the mood for modes. I started with A mode (wood mode) by sinking a couple of long Phillips-head screws through a tripled-up top plate. As advertised, the driver started out slowly, then quickly finished the job. The Makita XDT16 has so much power, it buried one of the screws about 3/16” sub-flush before I knew it. If appearance is a factor, a slower speed can help save you from yourself…
Next up was T-1 mode. I sank a couple of short self-drilling screws into some HVAC ductwork, and the driver again worked as advertised, stopping the tool shortly after impacting started.
In T-2 mode, I sank some self-drilling screws through heavy-gauge garage door brackets. The Makita XDT16 had plenty of power to get the job done, and reduced the RPMs as soon as the tool started impacting. I released the trigger, and then a couple of quick trigger pulls finished snugging up the fasteners.
Note: Especially with shorter screws, a slow speed will give you much better odds of controlling the driver, and stopping the rotation before stripping occurs.
To try out the Auto-Stop function, I selected it to back out the self-tapping metal screws. Although the Auto-Stop mode is intended for bolts or heavier fasteners, it worked great on the inch-long screws, stopping the rotation as soon as the screws were loose. Very slick!
Some Helpful Bits
Using ordinary driver bits with impact drivers is never recommended, as these tools generate an incredible amount of torque. With the exception of the big lag screw, all the fasteners were sunk using bits from the 26-piece Makita B-46919 impact bit set. The set contains a nice variety of bits, including Phillips head, Torx, square drive and nut drivers, all designed for use specifically with impact drivers.
All the bits worked well and fit snugly, with no cam-out or stripping, and they all held up well. A very handy added feature is the “Mag boost” sleeve, that instantly gives any driver bit an instant shot of magnetism. To help cut down on lost or dropped fasteners, the nut drivers also have powerful nut-grabbing rare earth magnetic inserts.
Ready To Change Your Mode Of Impact Driving?
There ARE a lot of impact drivers on the market today, and many of them are very capable. To gain or keep market share, the big tool makers are constantly innovating, adding features to make their tools more powerful, more durable, and faster and easier to use. The Makita XDT16 has several features that should be helpful to any pro or serious DIY user, along with plenty of power.
For anyone already on the Makita platform, with an 18V charger and 18V Star Li-Ion battery in your tool crib, the impact driver is available as a bare tool, as the Makita XDT16Z.
If you’re new to the brand, or want to beef up your battery supply at a discount, the Makita XDT16T kit contains the driver, two 18V 5.0 Ah batteries, a rapid charger, and a sturdy, fashionable molded teal case.
We received the bare-tool version of the Makita XDT16 to review, but Steve got the kit version of the XDT14, with the identical case, and he was very impressed. I really like the protection a well-made hard case provides, and wish they weren’t becoming such a rarity.
The Makita XDT16 has the look and feel of a solid, well-made, pro grade tool. Makita backs the tool, and the batteries if you get the kit, with a limited three-year warranty. If you’re tired of stripping, snapping, overdriving, and other undesirable impact driver antics, take the Makita XDT16 for a spin, and see what a little extra control can do for you.
Buy the Makita XDT16Z bare tool from Ohio Power Tool:
Buy the Makita XDT16T kit from Ohio Power Tool:
Buy the 26-piece Makita B-46919 Impact Bit set from the Home Depot, currently around $10:


Project MKVII Golf R: Part 1 – Introduction
I finally decided to give in and buy a German made car. Perhaps it’s the clever marketing that captured me this time, but I want to believe it was the clever engineering that drew me to the 2016 MKVII Volkswagen Golf R. While some of the rivals in the segment (WRX STI, and discontinued Evolution) have used the same stale drivetrain for several generations, Volkswagen has taken a different route and the result is a modern drivetrain package consisting of a direct injected turbo four-cylinder as well as a refined double clutch transmission and torque vectoring AWD system. This most recent addition to the MotoIQ project car fleet is a real wolf in sheep's clothing, and in this article we will take a look at some of the cool features of this project car.
Besides the sound engineering, I also found this car to be very refined in terms of the interior and ride quality. The leather is of amazing quality and feels better than what I’ve had in my Japanese cars. NVH issues are minimal especially compared to the 2015 WRX I previously used for daily driving duties. The doors shut with that solid thunk sound that is so uniquely German. Having been a die hard Japanese car owner, making the switch has left me with a few striking observations on the differences between the MKVII Golf R and the Japanese cars I’m used to driving. The primary difference from my initial impressions is that the Golf feels like a luxury car compared to the rental car feel of the WRX and Evolution interior compartments. The details on the trim give the Golf that little something extra that is sorely lacking in the Japanese cars. These observations are just my subjective experience with cars I’ve owned.
On to the more interesting bits. This car has a lot of great engineering features that reflect what a modern turbocharged AWD sports car can be. We will start by taking a look at some of the notable features of the EA888 engine. The EA888 engine has several variations which include 1.8L and 2.0L displacements. The MKVII Golf R EA888 was improved in a motorsport type development program with some performance oriented features including a different cylinder head material, different exhaust valves and camshafts, higher flowing injectors, strengthened connecting rods and pistons, and a larger turbo. All of these changes add up to a powerplant producing a very smooth 292 whp and 280 lb-ft of torque.
In addition to the Golf R specific changes, Volkswagen AG has gone to great lengths in this third generation of the EA888 engine in their efforts to improve efficiency and reduce emissions. This quest for improved efficiency has produced a properly modern engine. One of the stand out features of this engine is the cylinder head integrated exhaust manifold that has coolant passages around each exhaust runner. This allows for a reduction in EGT at the turbocharger inlet of up to 320* F.
Exhaust manifolds that are integrated into the cylinder head are not a new thing by any means with several manufacturers such as Honda already using this technique for their own cylinder heads. Where the integrated exhaust manifold really shines is in a turbocharged application. The ability to lower the exhaust temperature with cooling jackets surrounding the exhaust runners eliminates the need to enrich the fuel mixture at high engine loads to prevent knock. This is great news if you have a heavy foot. How much of a difference it will actually make in MPG when the vehicle is driven hard is yet to be determined, but it is still a noteworthy advancement in a turbocharged application.
VW added some fancy cooling system features to the EA888 that help extend turbo life as well as reduce engine warm up times. Not satisfied with the effectiveness of simple thermal siphoning for turbo cooling after engine shut off, VW decided to install a small circulation pump to run coolant through the turbo after the engine has been shut off. You can hear the pump run periodically for a few seconds at a time after the engine has shut down. The periodic coolant circulation helps to extract some of the built up heat in the turbo housings that would otherwise find its way to more sensitive areas of the turbo rotating components and lead to early failure.
VW uses an electronic thermostat that can isolate coolant flow to the cylinder head during engine warm up to get the engine up to operating temperatures quicker as well as warm up the interior cabin quickly. I have found that the passenger compartment heater starts producing heat in less than one minute which is very useful for those colder days.


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I had heard good things about this book so when the audio version came available at the library, I nabbed it. Unfortunately, my experience wasn't nearly as positive as many reviews had promised.
Before going into why it didn't work for me, I want to say that I enjoyed the narration. Lots of French in this book so I appreciated being able to hear proper pronunciations and a nice accent. I also found myself connecting with some of the characters and chuckling here and there or feeling some empathy for them. The mystery, itself, was sort of fun to follow. Even though I pegged the killer very early on, I didn't have much evidence. But to be fair, there wasn't much evidence to go on for that person.
Now for the things that made me groan and, at one point, move the book to my "quit but will go back" shelf. I dropped it for a couple of days but, in the end, wanted to find out why Jane had been killed.
First off, the jumping POVs drove me crazy. Some authors can make it work - I've heard JK Rowling is a head hopper with the Harry Potter series. (No, I've not read them - YET!) I don't remember it being an issue in her Robert Galbraith books or with Casual Vacancy though. Anyway, the head hopping is what ultimately made me put the book away. It still bothered me when I decided to keep going but I did my best to ignore it.
Another thing that bothered me was that some of the clues - particularly toward the end when it seemed pretty obvious how to identify the killer - were completely missed by the detectives. I understand that the reader gets more info than any individual character but it was right there.
So, I'm glad I finished the book but unless the POV switching was eliminated in later books in the series, I don't see myself reading another.

domain: library


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Gabby’s story was originally shared in the Clear the Shelters Adoption Story Challenge on ShelterChallenge.com. Create your own free Shelter Challenge account and vote for your favorite shelter or rescue group to win cash and prizes. Every time you vote we’ll give an extra donation to shelters!
Gabby was an emergent case. One of our local Animal Control Officers received a call in the middle of the night about a dog hit by a car. It was a serious situation with a decision needing to be made about whether the dog could be saved.
The Officer, not having the resources to provide emergent care, called one of our volunteers who made arrangements for the dog to go to the vet to receive life-saving care. Gabby, as she became known, stayed at the vet’s office for a little while to receive pain meds, IV fluids and x-rays, and made it through the accident with bruising to a lung, a swollen shoulder, broken teeth, a broken jaw, and required drain tubes to be placed. She was a tiny, but mighty girl with a long road ahead.
Lucky for Gabby, a foster home took her in so that she could receive the care she needed. She stayed in their care for a few months before being medically cleared to work towards finding her forever home — and it didn’t take long! One of our volunteers had a daughter seeking a companion for her small-breed dog. They decided to take Gabby as a foster to ensure that everything would work out and finalized her adoption a few months later. Her adoption served as a heartwarming story for all of our volunteers that put a lot of time into making sure that this sweet girl could pull through.
Story submitted by Paws of Hertford County.
Help Rescue Animals
Provide food and vital supplies to shelter pets at The Animal Rescue Site for free! →

domain: pet


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Do you have a dinosaur lover in your midst? National Geographic Kids celebrated DinoMAYnia in May and International Dinosaur Day on May 17th. Even if you missed International Dinosaur Day, you can find some great books below for readers of all ages.
National Geographic Kids also has an amazing DinoMAYnia website packed full of games, video shorts, facts, and even a dinosaur personality quiz!: natgeokids.com/dinomania
Little Kids First Board Book; Dinosaurs (ages baby – 3, hard cover, $7.99)
The prehistoric world comes alive with dinosaurs small, big, giant, and gigantic in this colorful book for the very youngest dinosaur lovers! Each spread in this sturdy book features a different dinosaur, along with super simple facts and lively, age-appropriate language to keep babies and toddlers–and their grown-ups–fascinated by every colorful page. Not only will readers learn about a variety of dinosaurs–and how to say their names, they can also find recurring shapes and patterns in the art, while adults can keep their eyes open for occasional funny commentary from the animals. Sidebar text offers additional learning for older siblings or those ready for more complex information. The Little Kids First Board Books mirror the beloved First Big Books while taking a fresh new approach to excite a baby’s sense of wonder and make learning about nature and science fun.
NG Kids Dinos Sticker Activity Book (ages preschool – 3, paperback, $6.50)
From T. rex to Stegasaurus, Diplodocus to Triceratops, this super engaging activity book is packed with mazes, spelling and pattern games, drawing activities, and more. Dino-crazy kids are sure to love these pages loaded with fun, learning as the go!
So Cool! Dinos (hardcover, ages 3-5, $6.99)
Those sharp, pointy teeth! Those terrifying claws! Those long necks and pointy spines! Let’s face it … dinosaurs are SO COOL! Blending dinosaur art with silly quips and Informational fact boxes about when dinosaurs lived on Earth, stats about dinos, dinosaur feathers, and more, this is the perfect little reader to get kids’ brains buzzing and keep them laughing while learning.
National Geographic Readers: T.Rex (ages 4-6, paperback, $4.99)
Giant teeth! Crushing bite! Slicing claws! And … feathers? Scientists have unearthed new knowledge about the king of the dinosaurs, and now you can, too. Travel back in time to the Mesozoic forests to meet the mighty Tyrannosaurus rex. Learn how their bodies were perfectly adapted for hunting, how T. rex parents guarded their nests, and just how much meat they could guzzle down in a single bite. Then explore some of the fascinating fossils―including Sue and Scotty―that have helped scientists make important discoveries (for example, T. rex may not have roared at all!). National Geographic Readers’ combination of expert-vetted text, brilliant images, and a fun approach to reading have proved to be a winning formula with kids, parents, and educators. This level 1 text provides accessible information for kids just beginning to read on their own, perfect to encourage the scientists and explorers of tomorrow!
Ultimate Dinopedia, 2nd ED (hardcover, ages 7-10, 296 pages, $24.99)
Big, beautiful and gift-worthy! The new edition of the popular Nat Geo Kids Dinopedia includes all the latest species and is the most complete, up-to-date dinosaur reference available. Find favorites, like the fierce T-rex and the gentle Brontosaurus, plus audacious new finds, like the Anzu, Kosmoceratops, and Yi. Every dino profile is colorfully illustrated and features descriptions of when they roamed the Earth, how they lived, what they ate, and more. There are more than 600 dinos featured in all, including 10 profiles of recently discovered dinosaurs and new entries in the Dino Dictionary. Reports from paleontologists present the latest news and insights from the field.
Dino Records: The Most Amazing Prehistoric Creatures Ever to Have Lived on Earth! (paperback, ages 8-12, 208 pages, $14.99)
Get ready to meet the record-setting creatures from the time when dinosaurs roamed the Earth, including the biggest, smallest, smartest, weirdest, deadliest, most notorious, and most mysterious of all time. Young paleontologists can explore fantastic firsts, including the first dinosaur fossils found and the first dinos in space. They’ll also meet other rad, remarkable creatures that lived before, after, and alongside them. Did you know that the largest fish, the largest turtle, and the largest flying animal that ever existed lived during the time of the dinosaurs? Or that mammals – no bigger than a small dog when dinosaurs roamed – eventually evolved into massive land animals? See who wins in head-to-head species smackdowns and enjoy games that complement the records.
1,000 Facts About Dinosaurs, Fossils and Prehistoric Life (ages 8-12, National Geographic Kids Books, Hardcover, $14.99)
T. rex, triceratops, pterosaurs, saber-toothed cats! This eye-catching, comprehensive, and “browsable” title is jam-packed with 1,000 fascinating facts about what these prehistoric creatures looked like, how they lived, and the evidence they left behind. Uncover amazing fossil facts about the first four-legged creatures; find out what it’s like to be on a dinosaur dig; and marvel at some of the fiercest, most fascinating claws and teeth. Learn how dinosaurs and birds are connected, find out the biggest prehistoric mysteries that scientists are still trying to crack, and sink your teeth into some seriously supersize dino stats.
National Geographic Dino Fossil Dig Kit (ages 8+, $9.99)
Your child will be able to do the work of a real paleontologist as they excavate a T. rex tooth replica from the large dig brick with tools similar to what paleontologists use in the field. This T. rex tooth is a very special item because it was molded from a real T. rex tooth fossil, so your child will have the chance to see, feel, and treasure an artifact from one of the most famous and fearsome dinosaurs yet discovered. A genuine coprolite (dino poop) fossil is also included.
One of my US readers will win a Nat Geo Kids DinoMAYnia Prize Pack, which includes all 8 items described above (ARV $92). Lucky you! To enter, fill out the form below.
Disclosure: Thank you to the sponsor for providing the prize for giveaway.


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An important presence, from 11 to 17th of May, for a community that wants to be treated like the others. Not unnatural, not against something else, but simply with their own identity and their own ideas, to confront those who still harbors deep prejudices. This is the meaning of the participation of Agedo (Association of parents, relatives and friends of gays and lesbians, bisexuals and transgender people).
In the Civil Society Pavilion Agedo is present with its own exhibition space on the first floor of the farmhouse and with a series of initiatives to reflect on the use we make of words in defining our identity. "Words prisoners" is the title of the project: a photographic exhibition and a series of meetings and workshops that will be held on days 15, 16, 17th of May.
"There is no family but several families - explains Rita De Santis, honorary president of Agedo - as well as the body is not outrageous, is simply the container of the soul. And the soul can be heterosexual or LGBTQ".

domain: sociology


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The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) on Thursday (22 July) issued a Port Marine Circular (No. 34 of 2021) updating a new volumetric fee on liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargo operations to support LNG bunkering and breakbulk activities in Singapore port.Details of PMC No. 34 of 2021 are as follows:
New volumetric fee on liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargo operations by MPA approved floating storage units/floating storage regasification units berthed at MPA approved berth to support LNG bunkering and breakbulk activities in port.
Port Marine Circular No. 28 of 2021 dated 1 July 2021 had informed the harbour craft and shipping community of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA)’s new harbour craft port dues concession to support the deployment of MPA-approved FSUs/FSRUs in Singapore for LNG bunkering and breakbulk activities.
To ensure a level playing field for the deployment of such MPA-approved FSUs/FSRUs in Singapore berthed at an MPA-approved berth, whether at a privately-operated wharf or public-licensed terminal, with effect from 23 July 2021, MPA will impose a new LNG volumetric fee1, which is as follows:
Private wharfage charges will not apply to such operations.
For queries relating to the LNG volumetric fee, please call the MPA hotline at 1800 272 7777 or email [email protected]
1 The ‘LNG volumetric fee’ will be imposed under paragraph 6A of the MPA (Scale of Dues, Rates and General Fees) Notification, which will come into effect on 23 July 2021. Please refer to the MPA (Scale of Dues, Rates and General Fees) (Amendment No. 2) Notification 2021.
2 No LNG volumetric fee will be charged on LNG cargo which is discharged from an MPA-approved FSU/FSRU to another vessel or to ISO tanks at the MPA-approved berth.
Photo credit: Marine and Port Authority of Singapore
Published: 23 July, 2021
Discussions around the need to develop methanol bunkering operations are taking place at numerous ports ahead of estimated demand of above 7M mtpa by 2030, says Chris Chatterton of Methanol Institute.
‘Economics of the shipping market will be the key driver enabling methanol to be adopted at a higher pace going forth over next couple years as market begins to return to more normal rates,’ states COO.
Integr8 Fuel injunction varied by Singapore Court to allow former employees to start work at Hartree Group in December 2022 following failure to produce evidence on biofuels development plans.
Variability of sources can affect the stability and performance of biofuel bunkers produced from these feedstocks, in turn leading to difficulties in meeting regulations and industry standards, shares Bryan Quek.
Top three positive movers in 2022 were Bunker House Petroleum Pte Ltd (+7), Eastpoint International Marketing Pte Ltd (+5), and Eng Hua Company (Pte) Ltd (+6); newcomer Sinopec Fuel Oil (Singapore) gets 19th spot.
Livestock carrier also involved in earlier bunker claim with Glander International Bunkering due to remaining unpaid fuel bill of approximately USD 116,000, according to court documents obtained by Manifold Times.

domain: news


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Men’s reticence to show vulnerability is seen as a source of male anger, and as a challenge to men’s ability to connect emotionally with others. But vulnerability takes many forms. Showing vulnerability to deepen his relationships is praiseworthy. But men’s vulnerability can also challenge society’s beliefs about gender, which can be discomforting for progressives as much as conservatives.
Charlie Brown’s Football
Advocates for men and boys point to the sex abuse scandal you’ve never heard of. The victims are boys in juvenile detention. But 95% of the perpetrators are women, and that contradicts what we think we know about sexual predators.
Unconscious gender biases play a role. One comment on a Good Men Project article (I forget which one) noted that talking about female perpetrators is more socially unacceptable than talking about male vulnerability.
Along the same lines, the Centers for Disease Control found that over a third of severe domestic violence victims are men, and men and women are equally likely to experience emotional abuse. Yet, many still deny that violence against men is a problem.
A man who openly talks about these issues is likely to find himself accused of playing the victim. He may find “ironic” hashtags waiting for him – #WhatAboutTehMenz, #MasculinitySoFragile, or #MaleTears.
Another comment on a Good Men Project article described this double bind as being like Lucy asking Charlie Brown to kick a football. First he says no, she’ll just pull it away and he’ll fall flat on his back. But she promises she won’t, so Charlie Brown agrees to kick the football. We all know what happens next.
No wonder men hide their vulnerability.
Quit Your Whining
One alternative is for men to frame their vulnerability in terms of masculinity’s affect on women. But men’s ability to speak authentically about their issues is limited if showing vulnerability must be carefully calculated to remain within other people’s comfort zones. So most men avoid gender issues like the plague.
But this comes at a cost. Boys are falling far behind girls in school, but little is being done to address it. And almost four in five suicides are male, but we resist talking about suicide as a gender issue. Instead, it’s pointed out that while women attempt suicide more often, men use more lethal methods. Which is as insightful as saying that people who drive faster get more speeding tickets.
We rarely ask why men use more lethal methods. After all, a suicide attempt is a cry for help. And a cry for help shows a belief that someone will listen. But if you don’t believe anyone will listen then you don’t attempt suicide – you commit suicide. Why don’t men think people will listen to them?
That people listen to men more than women is taken for granted. But that’s with impersonal things like sports or politics. Personal issues are a different matter. Advocates for men and boys point to Boko Haram as an illuminating example. When Boko Haram kidnapped girls there was an outpouring of international concern. But there was silence when boys were kidnapped – or even burned alive. This enormous empathy gap, however, is largely invisible.
Men Must Change
This whining is more than most us can take. Men are told to step up to the plate. The United Nations campaign is HeForShe, not HeAndShe. Its focus is gender equality, which means men doing something about violence against women and girls.
To show their vulnerability (but only in certain ways), men must change. Writer Ally Fogg describes this as the last great masculine delusion. He asks us to image telling women that to close the pay gap women must learn to change their behaviors. The problem, of course, is ignoring that our culture needs to change. This doesn’t deny women’s or men’s personal responsibility – it just acknowledges that social context matters and that responsibility is an interactive process.
But when the topic is male vulnerability, saying that men must change doesn’t strike the same discordant note. Rather, saying society first must change sounds off key.
Without looking at the larger picture, however, the vulnerability dilemma remains – being perceived as a whiny victim or as being strong and silent. We shouldn’t be surprised that men so often take the most socially acceptable option.
If you believe in the work we are doing here at The Good Men Project, please join like-minded individuals in The Good Men Project Premium Community.
We have pioneered the largest worldwide conversation about what it means to be a good man in the 21st century. Your support of our work is inspiring and invaluable.
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Photo Credit: Getty Images

domain: psychology


Auckland, New Zealand maintenance engineer Lance Abernathy employed his Ultimaker 2 desktop 3D printer to create what he believes to be world’s smallest working drill. The tiny 3D printed casing houses electrical innards including a hearing aid battery, which powers the minuscule drill bit. Abernathy was inspired to create the tiny tool by childhood stories.
I have always liked small things and have created small items since I was a little kid. I was with my work colleagues and was talking about mythical stories about one country making a twist drill and sending it to another. The other country returned it with a hole through the middle. Things like this easily challenge me and my idea was born.
images via 3DPrint.com


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4 National Parks in the UK You Can Visit in a Motorhome
Motorhomes are the perfect means of transportation for exploring your own (or nearest) country at your own pace. On the other hand, visiting National Parks is one of the most beneficial ways to explore the world’s natural environment in all beauty. And fortunately, Britain has many fantastic camping sites nearby Natural Parks, allowing you to combine both these points during your next trip.
In this article, we’ve listed several National Parks in the United Kingdom. All of them offer breathtaking sights, but nature and wildlife differ so that you can choose something close to your heart. So read on, get a motorhome (you can contact Oaktree Motorhomes to help you make a choice), and start planning your next adventure.
Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park
Situated in central Scotland, this spectacular park is famous for its sublime lochs and magnificent mountains. Moreover, it is one of the largest parks in Scotland, and it ranks sixth among all British national parks. So if you’re a fan of nature, if you want to breathe some fresh air and explore some breathtaking sights, come here for a trip of your life.
To enjoy a free visit here, use the National Cycle Route 7 as an access point. If you want to explore more of the UK, go south along this route and then turn to the national park of Lake District.
Dartmoor National Park
Dartmoor National Park is situated in south-western England. Due to its location in the wild and largely undeveloped countryside, nature here remains almost untouched. As a result, the landscape is unique, rich in antiquities and archaeology. One of the most interesting places here is Haytor – a granite hilltop know as tor. Its characteristic shape is a notable landmark, and you can see it from many places in the area.
Great walking routes are available here, so if you’re a nature lover, this place is definitely a must-see. Although the park is huge, exploring it on bike or foot won’t be very challenging. If you want to have some fun, Dartmoor offers various activities, including kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing, and even letterboxing and geocaching. In addition to that, the park covers several towns and villages and industrial areas and reservoirs.
If you want to explore more of Dartmoor, you can take advantage of the National Cycle Route 27, which runs through the park. Thanks to this route, you can also travel from coast to coast – just like in Scotland.
Lake District National Park
One of the most beautiful parts of England, Lake District National Park is famous for mountains, valleys, and lakes, including the largest lake in England – Windermere. Moreover, there are many famous mountain peaks here – for example, Helvellyn, reaching 950 m (3,120 ft) above sea level.
There are plenty of cycling routes in the Lake District National Park, so if you want to explore the area, we recommend bringing your bike along. If not, take a hiking trail or a public footpath and enjoy the spectacular landscapes and unique wildlife.
Cairngorms National Park
Located in the Scottish Highlands, this national park is known for its nature and its people – the Highland Scots. They have lived here for centuries and have been known for their fierceness. These days, there are just a few small villages left that the Highlanders inhabit, but you can still feel their spirit when you visit this beautiful part of Scotland.
Cairngorms National Park is the largest in the UK, covering an area of 4,528 km2. It has unique geology – some sands and rocks here date back to 500 million years ago! The moorlands are home to many rare plants, birds, and animals – all that you can see when exploring the park on foot.
If apart from enjoying stunning nature, discovering peculiar wildlife, and meeting friendly locals, you also want to have some fun – no problem. There are many activities here, such as cycling, climbing, skiing, and canoeing. Choose something that suits you, and don’t forget to put that into your plan. To enjoy a free visit to Cairngorms National Park, you can use various roads as access points, including A944 and A93. There are also many campsites nearby, so you’ll always be comfortable.
National parks in the UK: A Final Note
Motorhome travel is booming today, and there is a reason for that. Not only does it allow you to go on a trip while socially distancing, but it also gives you access to many fantastic places in your country. If you’ve never been to the UK national parks, now may be the best time to visit them.
Breathtaking nature, unique wildlife, various activities – that is something all the sights on our list have in common. However, they also differ quite a lot. Dartmoor National park, for example, will give you an insight into archaeology, while Lake District National park will allow exploring romantic valleys.
When choosing your destination, remember that there’s no right and wrong here. Moreover, it’s not your last trip. Go to the place that captured your heart and visit other parks some other time.

domain: travel


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It’s a question that’s raised once more as the BBC lead their bulletins with the results of an FOI request to DCAL that has revealed the local minister’s directions to the Belfast Festival. This morning’s BBC report explains:
The email is part of an exchange between the director of the Belfast Festival at Queen’s, Graeme Farrow, and the permanent secretary at DCAL. In an e-mail seen by the BBC Mr Farrow mentioned that he was preparing a paper for the minister’s attention.
The permanent secretary replied that the minister expected the paper to: “propose an audit over, say, the last five or six years of the range of views represented in political talks and debates in the festival and of the range of traditional music in relevant cultural events.”
The e-mail goes on to list two specific things which the minister wanted to see included in the festival. It said the minister would like to see “a view sympathetic to Israel in any relevant talk or debate” included in the festival programme and “some southern gospel music, which is immensely popular”.
In terms of context, a pro-Israel speaker at a Middle Easter discussion was uninvited at the last minute, which led to allegations of a pro-Palestine emphasis and a lack of balance. The Belfast Telegraph summarises:
Last year Professor Geoffrey Alderman, the lead columnist on the Jewish Chronicle, was invited to join a panel of speakers to discuss the Middle East conflict at the Belfast Festival at Queen’s. However, the invitation was withdrawn days before the academic was due to fly in to the province. Professor Alderman was invited to join the planned discussion after the Northern Ireland Friends of Israel group complained that the speakers on the panel, Avi Shlaim and QUB professor Beverly Milton-Edwards, were both critics of Israel, so the event would be unbalanced.
Interviewed on Radio Ulster this morning, Nelson McCausland pointed to large audiences at southern gospel concerts and suggested that the festival would benefit from the ticket sale revenue. Festivals aren’t all about putting on popular shows.
A normal part of festival planning must be to offset the cost of most expensive or lower audience shows with money spinning events. Belfast Festival planners no doubt appreciate private programming suggestions from any quarter, and the minister’s comments were conveyed in an email exchange between the DCAL permanent secretary and Graeme Farrow, the director of the Belfast Festival.
On Good Morning Ulster, he said:
You can’t have a shared future based on discrimination and exclusion and simply, I was saying to them, make sure that your programmes, over a period of time, reflect balance, fairness and inclusion.
However, the minister has voiced some of these ideas in public before.
During a speech on the Friday night before the main DUP conference in late November, Nelson McCausland publicly expressed his views on the cultural diversity displayed in the Queen’s Festival programme.
Too often we have allowed our cultural traditions to be marginalised and excluded. And in many ways there is still a cultural establishment where unionists are under-represented and therefore it is easy for those organising events programmes festivals to forget about us or to ignore us. And that’s something we need to challenge.
As an example, he pointed to the absence of crowd-drawing gospel concerts from the festival programme and soon after blogged about it.
Was quality an issue? In an ad-libbed remark, he went on to say:
I did point out that one of the star turns in the Queens Festival this year was Hugo Duncan. So I reckoned that if Hugo Duncan was of high enough standard for the Queens Festival I think we should be all right.
You can hear his comments towards the end of the speech.
The DUP has opposed the discriminatory 50:50 recruitment policy since its inception, and therefore welcome the end of this policy.
Whilst I would like to see a police force which recruits from throughout the community, discriminating against candidates on the basis of religion or community background was wrong, is wrong and will always be wrong …
Northern Ireland has hopefully moved on, and I look forward to new recruits being judged on ability and merit, rather than on the basis of what religion they are.”
Reflecting that back onto the arts … whilst I would like to see arts festivals which include content from across the widest range of artistic and cultural talents, discriminating against events on the basis of musical genre or politics is wrong and will always be wrong. Northern Ireland has hopefully moved on, and I look forward to festival programming and events being judged on ability and merit, rather than on the basis of what genre or political bent they are.
Alan Meban. Tweets as @alaninbelfast. Blogs about cinema and theatre over at Alan in Belfast. A freelancer who writes about, reports from, live-tweets and live-streams civic, academic and political events and conferences. He delivers social media training/coaching; produces podcasts and radio programmes; is a FactCheckNI director; a member of Ofcom’s Advisory Committee for Northern Ireland; and a member of the Corrymeela Community.


text:
1. what does neon stand for in the periodic table?
1 of 5
Other questions in this quiz
2. why should you were goggles?
- safety issues
- because you dont damage your eyes
- because you get told off if you dont
- so chemicals dont get into your eyes
3. what does 'O' stand for?
4. what is a long tube called?
- test tube
- measuring cylinder
5. in the periodic table what does 'H' stand for?

domain: chemistry


text:
By Christine Bremer Muggli
From the moment we begin to learn, one common theme is drummed into our minds – it is wrong to lie. Many of us vividly remember what happened when we lied to our parents!
For over a century, this state has allowed injured homeowners to pursue a fraudulent misrepresentation claim in tort against the homeowner who lied about the condition of the home. Now the Court says that claim no longer exists.
Chief Justice Abrahamson, and Justices Butler and Bradley did not agree with the decision of the Court and for good reason. Writing for the dissent, Justice Bradley put it very clearly:
“According to the majority, a person selling a home can look the buyer in the eye, lie about the condition of the home and escape legal consequences in tort for the lie because of the economic loss doctrine.”
The economic loss doctrine was created by judges to prevent parties to a contract from pursuing a recovery in tort when the damages suffered were economic or commercial losses. It was thought to be a private matter between the buyer and the seller and the contract should control how the dispute is resolved. With the Court’s decision, this very narrow doctrine has now been expanded to prevent a private homebuyer from seeking remedies against a seller who lies to him.
The basic underlying purpose of tort law is to require each of us to act as a reasonable person to prevent harm to another. When a person lies, he violates this basic duty each of us owe one another. That is why the tort of fraudulent misrepresentation was created, to find a remedy for a serious wrong against community values.
This split decision of the Wisconsin Supreme Court is important for a number of reasons. For the first time, many victims of real estate fraud will go without any remedies against the seller.
The decision also signals a dangerous turn for the Court.
As Justice Bradley wrote in her dissent, good public policy that recognizes the need for truth in human relationships is no longer recognized by the Wisconsin Supreme Court.
This decision is bad for the welfare of Wisconsin consumers and bad for the real estate market which must operate in an environment of trust and honesty.
We must ask, is this the direction some members of Wisconsin Supreme Court will take in the future? Much is at stake. We all need to be much more vigilant, not only as purchasers of homes but as voters in the next Wisconsin Supreme Court election.
Christine Bremer Muggli is the President of the Wisconsin Association for Justice (formerly the Wisconsin Academy of Trial Lawyers), Wisconsin’s largest statewide voluntary attorney organization defending the civil justice system. Look for Christine’s columns each month.


Animal rights activists in San Francisco staged a second protest at the Nob Hill home of Susan Atherton, the co-chair of the Board of Directors of The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), over her refusal to acknowledge and address the animal welfare infractions at Project Chimps, an HSUS sanctuary in Georgia. During the protest, the activists announced that they plan to return “again and again” until Atherton and her colleagues on the board of HSUS improve the living conditions and veterinary care of the 78 chimpanzees at Project Chimps.
On May 4th, 2020, 22 people who worked for or volunteered at Project Chimps sent a letter to board president Bruce Wagman to voice their concerns about poor veterinary care, overcrowding, rushed chimpanzee introductions, a lack of sufficient enrichment and infrequent access to the outdoor habitat. At Project Chimps, the residents are held in concrete enclosures for all but 10 hours a week.
When Project Chimps and HSUS refused to acknowledge the welfare violations outlined in the letter, two whistleblowers, Crystal Alba and Lindsay Vanderhoogt, posted extensive evidence of the mistreatment at HelpTheChimps.org. On July 9th, National Geographic validated their allegations in an in-depth, investigative story.
“HSUS is the largest animal protection organization in the country with over $200 million in assets,” said Bob Ingersoll, a primatologist who organized the protest. “This organization must use the vast resources at its disposal to transform Project Chimps from a chimpanzee warehouse into a real sanctuary.”
In recent months, two prominent national animal rights organizations have spoken out publicly about the welfare issues at Project Chimps. On July 31st, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) posted a statement in support of the whistleblowers, and, on October 14th, the Nonhuman Rights Project (NhRP), issued a public statement demanding that HSUS and Project Chimps provide the chimpanzees in their care with daily access to the outdoors.
In its public statement defending Project Chimps, HSUS states, “Multiple reputable parties—including a primate expert with years of experience, a renowned chimpanzee veterinarian, a sanctuary-accrediting organization and several government inspectors—have visited Project Chimps, assessed the facilities, program and animals there and have concluded that the chimpanzees are well cared for.” HSUS failed to disclose conflicts of interest. It paid the primate expert a $20,000 consulting fee, and it is a founder of the “sanctuary-accrediting organization” that conducted an inspection.
On August 28th, Donny Moss of TheirTurn.net contacted the North American Primate Sanctuary Alliance (NAPSA) to express concern about the welfare of the animals at Project Chimps. In response, NAPSA’s Programs Director Erika Fleury stated that Project Chimps “meets NAPSA’s membership standards” and that “It’s clear that you and I are of different opinions about the things you mentioned. I, and NAPSA, trust that the outcomes of the inspections by numerous accrediting/licensing/independent bodies can speak for themselves. Based on what I know of the former employees’ [whistleblowers] activities, I’m going to decline to engage anymore on this topic.”
Dr. Steve Ross, the Director of the Lester E. Fisher Center for the Study and Conservation of Apes at Lincoln Park Zoo and an expert on chimpanzee behavior and wellbeing, is conducting an animal welfare assessment at Project Chimps. He anticipates releasing the findings of this assessment in November.
Animal rights activists have scheduled protests at the Los Angeles home of HSUS board member Steven White on October 31st and at the Manhattan home of board member Sharon Lee Patrick on November 7th. The activists are demanding that HSUS replace the Executive Director of Project Chimps with someone with extensive chimpanzee experience; hire a veterinarian with proven expertise in primate care; build new outdoor enclosures so that the chimps have daily access to the forest; and abstain from bringing in new chimps until these outdoor enclosures are built.
Filed under: Experimentation
Tagged with: chimpanzees, Humane Society of the United States, Jane Goodall, Project Chimps


NEW DELHI | MUMBAI: The government took the bold step of raising diesel, cooking gas and kerosene prices for the first time in one year and cut taxes on fuel, delivering a bonanza for cash-strapped oil retailing firms but upsetting budget calculations of households and the economy.
Diesel prices are up Rs 3 per litre, kerosene Rs 2 per litre and cooking gas about Rs 50 per cylinder. The timing is ironical as the steep rise comes a day after international crude prices fell sharply but justifiable as crude oil prices are much higher than June last year, since when prices have been frozen.
Petrol prices, which have been decontrolled and raised several times, were untouched. The government also withdrew the 5% Customs duty on crude oil, and cut excise duty on diesel by Rs 2.6 a litre, losing tax revenue of Rs 49,000 crore and further boosting the finances of oil firms.
It also cut the import tax on petrol and diesel to 2.5% from 7.5%. Petrol and diesel are usually not imported in India but the import price, which includes Customs duty and freight, is always used by fuel retailers to calculate "under-recoveries" or the notional loss by selling fuel below the landed price of imported products.
State oil firms would still suffer an "under-recovery" of Rs 120,000 crore in 2011-12. In other words, they would have together earned an additional Rs 1,20,000 crore in the current fiscal year if fuel prices had been raised to the level of landed cost of imported fuel.
The notional loss would have been higher if the Customs duty on petrol and diesel was not cut. The move would directly stoke inflation by 30-35 basis points but the cascading impact of higher transportation cost of virtually all goods produced in the country, would lead to a higher increase in inflation, economists said.
"So we're looking at a 100 basis points first and second round impact from these hikes today (Friday) over the next couple of months," Sajid Chinoy, economist, JPMorgan told ET NOW. But Kirit Parekh, who chaired the committee on India's integrated energy policy, said higher prices would encourage a more rational use of diesel, making the impact of the move less inflationary in the medium term.
Also, freezing fuel rates and increasing subsidy would also be inflationary, he added. "So this inflation impact is a slightly misconceived notion because no matter what you do, its going to be inflationary," he said. The government is walking a tightrope between staterun oil firms that are complaining that they deserve more, and consumers who are already battling stubbornly high inflation.
"I'm sandwiched from economists on the one hand and populists on the other hand. Economists will say it is too little and populists will say it's too much," oil minister Jaipal Reddy told reporters after the meeting of the Empowered Group of Ministers that is authorised to take decisions of pricing and taxation of diesel, cooking gas and kerosene.
The unexpected government move enthused Indian Oil Corp, Bharat Petroleum Corp and Hindustan Petroleum Corp, the state refiners which operate more than 95% of the country's petrol pumps and were fast approaching a point where operating with borrowed money would have been unsustainable, threatening the fuel supply for the economy.
"The government has taken a bold decision despite inflationary concerns which will help both oil marketing companies and the economy," P Goyal, IOC's director for finance, told ET. "It will help us reduce our borrowing cost which has climbed to Rs 68,000 crore. It will mitigate our losses, and with the cash compensation of Rs 11,000 crore expected to come from the government in the first week of July, our liquidity situation should improve considerably," he added.
SK Joshi, finance director, BPCL, said: "We were not expecting such a relief. For FY11-12, our under-recoveries had already climbed to Rs 41,000. With this hike, we will see a relief of Rs 11,000 crore. The under-recovery burden cannot vanish overnight."
It's a different story for the country's fiscal situation as the government is already struggling to meet the fiscal deficit target of 4.6%. It had provided Rs 23,000 crore in the budget for oil subsidies but most of it has already been exhausted to settle last year's dues. Sacrificing another Rs 49,000 crore would stretch the fiscal situation further. "Netnet, I would suspect that it will worsen the fiscal deficit," said Pronab Sen, principal advisor, Planning Commission.


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Anyone who watched last night’s season finale of Grey’s Anatomy has two different questions on their mind right now (and to not spoil it for anyone who didn’t, neither of them involves either IL- or anterograde amnesia). But tradition is tradition, and so you get to learn about two subjects for the price of one today.
What is it?
IL-(or by its long name interleukin- ) is a chemotherapy used to treat melanomas and kidney cancer.
How does it work?
Interleukins are molecules in our immune system. They help in our body’s response to infections.
The cells that fight infections in our body are the white blood cells. The interleukins attach to these cells by connecting to a special receptor on them, and by this they activate them.
The good news is that the white blood cells can kill not only bacteria and viruses, but also cancer cells. IL-causes the body to make more of the immune system cells and makes the cells more effective.
When is it used?
IL-is used to treat advanced stages of kidney cancer (called renal cell carcinoma) or melanoma, when these tumors metastasize (spread to other parts of the body).
How successful is it?
About 10-20% of people treated with IL-respond to the treatment. In a study done in , people with metastatic melanoma were given the treatment. 16% of them (
” title=”Convert this amount”>43 people) improved with the treatment. Another study was done in 2000, in which again 16% of people improved.
It’s important to understand, though, that only 6% of these people were completely cured with this drug, while in the others it only helped partially.
Danger level: Medium
What is it?
Amnesia is a Greek word which means forgetfulness or loss of memory. Anterograde amnesia is the inability to remember new facts.
Who gets it?
There are two types of things which can cause anterograde amnesia:
- Drugs – No, not the ones that make you high. A group of drugs called benzodiazepines (which are usually used for anxiety or to induce sleep) can cause you to forget things. This can be seen in people receiving them before undergoing surgeries, who can’t recollect the minutes around taking the drug.
- Physical damage to the brain – The damage can be the result of an injury (such as after an accident) or after a surgery to the brain. Such surgeries may be needed in some types of seizures, or when a tumor is in that part of the brain.
What causes it?
The area in our brain responsible for storing memories is called the hippocampus. Damage to the area of the hippocampus can cause a problem with learning new things and retaining them.
The hippocampus. Lose it and you’ll stop remembering new things.
How does it feel?
People with anterograde amnesia lose the ability to learn new facts. It’s important to understand, though, that they can learn how to do new things, such as talk on the phone. They won’t, whoever, remember who they talked to.
If the amnesia was caused by a drug, it usually goes away after a short time. If the amnesia is a result of damage to the brain, however, the chances of gaining the remembering ability back are much slimmer.
This video is a good example. It’s a part of a documentary about Clive Wearing, who suffers from anterograde amnesia:
How is it treated?
Unfortunately, once an area of the brain is damaged, there is currently no known way to recover that area.

domain: medical


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Revance Therapeutics' Botox rival succeeds in late-stage trial
- A pοtential rival fοr Allergan Plc’s blockbuster Botox has passed a late-stage study, putting drug developer Revance Therapeutics Inc οn cοurse to file fοr U.S. marketing apprοval next year.
Revance shares climbed as much as 13 pct to $23.60 οn Tuesday.
Mοre than 95 percent of patients administered with Revance’s lοng-acting neurοmοdulatοr injectiοn RT002 were fοund to have nοne οr mild frοwn lines after fοur weeks, accοrding to data frοm the third late-stage study.
The treatment, which requires two οr less doses a year, was effective in maintaining reduced wrinkle severity in patients fοr a median duratiοn of 24 weeks.
Revance Chief Executive Dan Brοwne said οn a cοnference call the treatment, if apprοved, cοuld receive a 24-week label.
Analysts have nοted that patients are keen οn lοng-lasting alternatives as oppοsed to treatments like Botox, which is labeled to be administered in 12-16 week οr lοnger intervals.
Revance said the market fοr nerve activity regulating neurοmοdulatοrs, which recοrded total global sales of $4 billiοn in 2017, remains underpenetrated as currently available prοducts do nοt address patient need fοr lοng-term results.
Revance’s treatment, which has a six-mοnth median duratiοn of effect, prοvides a meaningful advantage over cοmpetitive prοducts such as Botox, analysts said.
The trial lessened some cοncerns investοrs had with respect to repeat dosing, SunTrust Robinsοn Humphrey analyst John Bοris said in a nοte.
“Data was in-line with our expectatiοns and suppοrts premium pricing fοr RT002 when it’s launched in 2020,” said Bοris, who expects the drug to bring in sales of $400 milliοn in 2023.
Separately, Revance signed a license deal with China’s Fosun Pharma, cοvering exclusive rights to develop and cοmmercialize RT002 in mainland China, Hοng Kοng and Macau.
Accοrding to the deal, Revance will receive an upfrοnt payment of $30 milliοn and is eligible to receive additiοnal milestοne payments of up to $230.5 milliοn, besides tiered low-double-digit to high-teen rοyalty payments οn future net sales.

domain: economics


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Is Insomnia Making You Ill?Oct 02, 2023
It is common for insomnia clients to worry about the effect of insomnia on their health. This is largely due to the media (which loves nothing more than horrific tales of doom and gloom!)
We are repeatedly told that if we don’t get a minimum of 7 hrs sleep a night we will likely get Alzheimer’s, cancer or some other awful disease and die an early death!
How Much Sleep Do We Actually Need?
Never mind that hunter gather studies show the average human evolved on an average of 6 hrs of sleep or that the main man driving this 7-9hrs of sleep myth has never worked with a single insomnia client. Who needs logic when they have fear to drive them?
In reality, fear of not sleeping (and health fear in general) is a multi-billion-dollar business. Consider, all the supplement companies, sleep gadgets, specialty mattress and eye mask manufacturers, etc etc. How would any of these make money if we were not afraid there was something terminally wrong with us? If people weren’t literally spending for their lives?
Headlines Can Be Deceiving
Just look at the title of this blog. Why did you click on it? The fact of the matter is that no one would read an article titled “I Didn’t Sleep Last Night and Moved on the End”. Fear is an amazing business opportunity, and many companies are simply taking advantage.
I began my career as a nutritionist, and I spent years coaching clients in health and wellness. As such, I am often baffled by how many people refuse to take the steps necessary (things they can control) such as eat more vegetables or get exercise, and instead choose to focus on the 1 thing they can’t control (forcing the body to get more sleep).
It begs the question, are people actually worried about health or is it the lack of control that is the real problem?
What is Association?
Yes, there is an association between lack of sleep and mortality, just as there is an association between ashtrays and lung cancer but what does this actually mean?
Let’s say you are a researcher. If you did not know what we know today about cigarettes and you were trying to find out why lung cancer was on the rise, you might go to examine people’s living environments, to gather information. Upon examination, you notice most of the houses have ashtrays and think “Eureka! That must be the answer”.
Now obviously we all know that ashtrays themselves do not cause lung cancer, cigarettes do. The ashtrays just happen to be present because of the cigarettes. This is an association.
The same thing happens when researchers study insomnia and disease. Yes, they see that sick people often suffer with insomnia, but did insomnia cause the disease or is it a result of the stress of being ill? We all know stress causes insomnia, so this isn’t outside the realm of possibility.
In fact, there was a meta-analysis published in 2019 which reviewed seventeen studies, including a total of 36,938,981 individuals followed up for a mean of 11.6 years which showed that there was no difference in the odds of mortality for those individuals with symptoms of insomnia when compared to those without symptoms. Insomnia had no significant effect on the life expectancy of these people.
Yet we are still being bombarded almost daily with articles of doom and gloom. The fact is that nothing has been proven. Theories are not fact, and we still don’t know exactly how long we need to sleep or what the effects of getting less sleep are.
So, what can you do?
Focus on What You CAN Control
It is completely understandable that if you are not sleeping well, you would be worried about your health. Anyone would be. Even if the ill effects of insomnia haven’t been proven, they also haven’t been unproven, plus not sleeping doesn’t exactly feel healthy!
That said, how well has worrying and stressing and trying to force sleep been working for you? Has it helped you to achieve your desired results?
While sleep is still a grey area, the effects of stress are quite clear. As are the effects of a modern lifestyle filled with processed food and no exercise.
If health really is your biggest concern, what can you do in these areas (the things you can control) to help yourself to be even 1% healthier?
We can all do something. Even if you are someone who feels like they do everything right! I work with a lot of people who display perfectionist tendencies (control and insomnia often walk hand in hand).
If this sounds like you, then it can be helpful to flip the what can you do model on its head and ask “what can I do less?”
The point being none of us is perfect and it is ok to be scared, tired, angry, and confused. There is nothing wrong with wanting to take control of your health and do the best for yourself, this is an act of self-love.
The only thing that needs to change here is the focus. If you really want to live a healthy life, then I encourage you to take all this frustrated pressure that has been built up around attempting to force sleep and direct it towards something you can control. The results could surprise you.
If you would like to learn more or book an individual session, please visit the Memberships page.
In the meantime, I would like to leave you with this important message. You are not broken! You are whole, perfect, and healthy exactly as you are, and you CAN sleep!
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Enjoy your visit to Amish country, but be sure to follow the 'golden rule' and treat the Amish and their property the way that you would wish to be treated. This statement from a Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Visitor's Bureau brochure sums it up well: "While you talk and mingle with the Amish, please remember that they are not actors or spectacles, but ordinary people who choose a different way of life."
Whether you shop for local Amish-made goods and furniture, stay overnight at a quaint bed and breakfast tucked under an authentic Amish quilt, stop by local roadside stands set ...
"How do the Amish live?"
Read our comprehensive guide to why the Amish live the way they do. We offer a list of informative articles to help you understand their culture, and way of life.
We still smile when we recall the question from a lady who called to make reservations. It was in early May and she was making plans to come sometime later that year.
"Can you tell me what week you think will have the best weather between now and October?" she innocently asked.
The question caught me totally by surprise. Finally I replied, "Well, in Ohio there is a saying; "if you don't like the weather, wait an hour as a change will likely be coming"."
While it may not be that unpredictable, there are seasons in ...
Presenting bloggers from area businesses to keep you informed regarding events and more at their businesses and throughout Amish Country.
Summer isn’t the only season that’s about to launch with spectacular flair. The warmer weather also marks the start of a new show season in Amish Country. At the Carlisle Inn Sugarcreek, a sensational schedule of Broadway-style productions beckons visitors from across the state and beyond.
“We’re bringing back a fan favorite from last year as well as introducing an exciting new production,” said general manager Kristina Schlabach. “A lot of our theater guests take a one-day trip to the Dutch Valley campus to dine in our restaurant, then they meander over to our gorgeous theater to ...
What's new in Amish Country?
Be informed of all the recent developments in and around Amish Country. We've got the inside information. Check back often to get all the news.


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Thu, November 9Early release day for all students; end of quarter planning
Fri, November 10Early release day K-8
Fri, November 17Early release day K - 8Parent Conferences
Parent conferences will be held on November 17th from 1:15 to 7:00 pm. Additional details will be forthcoming.
See Outdoor Ed fees and other miscellaneous MLK student fees here.
New this school year, myMCPS Parent Portal will replace Edline as the primary communication tool from MLK to home.
Board of Education Adopts New Calendar for 2017-18 School Year
Click inside to view the MLK Drone capture video of students announcing that MLK is now an IB World School!
view the new Parent-Child Reunification Video under Quick Links. This
video will be shown to students during an emergency drill on April 6th. The video was designed to give a short explanation of the school process if
there is an emergency that makes it necessary for authorized parents or other authorized adults to pick up a child from our school.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School has become an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) World School offering the Middle Years Programme (MYP)
See inside for information regarding winter weather information including early dismissals, closings, etc.
Help support MLK and join the PTSA!
Please read the principal's information packet which includes bus schedules, cafeteria information, and lots more!
PrincipalMr. Christopher A. Wynne
Assistant PrincipalMs Maggie Jones
Assistant School AdministratorMs. Laura Marion
Address: 13737 Wisteria Dr.Germantown, MD 20874
©1995–2017 MCPS, 850 Hungerford Drive, Rockville, Maryland 20850


Some of our favourite TOWIE cast members joined TV stars alike to attended the star studded TV Choice Awards held at London’s plush Savoy Hotel.
Amy Childs was looking happy and relaxed being back in the company of her cast members. Amy wore a beautiful white tiered floor length gown from the Debra boutique in Chigwell.
True fashionista Lydia Rose Bright dazzled the red carpet like a Hollywood A lister donning a vintage themed black gown with gold accents.
Our blog has not seen a lot of the lovely Chlose Sims recently so we were happy to get this picture of her and tonight and she looked stunning in a the glitzy purple Harriet dress by Forever Unique Price £330.
Top marks for your red carpet glamour girls x


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The New Mom School, formerly OC Mommy and Me is a one of kind experience in Newport Beach, California for new moms seeking support, education and friendship. Alex came to me back in 2016 after finishing a rebrand that she loved, but felt still wasn't hitting the mark. While many businesses geared towards parents had a playful and upbeat feel, we set out to create something that evoked a soothing, maternal and comforting vibe. We also worked with Lindsay of Made to Thrive to develop her user friendly beautiful custom Wordpress website. Since then, we have continued to support NMS through email marketing design, social media planning, and website updates.
+ brand identity
+ web design
+ social media
+ newsletter design
+ email marketing design
+ ongoing social media and email marketing
Julia was the only designer I have worked with that completely understands the high-end quality of my brand and is able to bring my explanation using words into design. She has helped create a standout suite of collateral and unique brand materials that set us far apart from others in our space. I can't thank her enough for bringing my vision to life after working with multiple other designers to rebrand and eventually not using their work because it just wasn't right. Julia hit the nail on the head and continues to wow with her eye for design and ability to create material to keep us looking our best. We have worked together since 2016 and I hope many more years!

domain: artistic


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Clive Palmer could face criminal charges over the collapse of his company, Queensland Nickel, for the alleged use of aliases as the Australian Securities and Investment Commission said it had launched an informal investigation into the parliamentarian at a Senate hearing.
ASIC commissioner John Price told the Senate Economics Legislative Committee that the regulator had "a number of current inquiries around a range of issues with Queensland Nickel".
"We are working closely with the administrators," Mr Price said.
Queensland Nickel went into administration last month owing creditors, including hundreds of staff, about $100 million. Mr Palmer has been accused of being a shadow director of Queensland Nickel and using the alias Terry Smith in his dealings with the company.
"We're looking at issues around corporate donations. We're looking at allegations around shadow directorships. We're also looking at various issues around statutory reporting requirements. We are making independent inquiries to various matters," Mr Price said.
"It's far too early to come to a concluded view."
Aliases not an offence
Mr Price said that while using an alias in Australia was not an offence, there were "some exceptions" that could lead to criminal charges, including regarding information provided to ASIC about a company.
"Has there been a false statement that's been lodged with us where an alias has been used? There have been some indications that there have been aliases but we're still in the early stage of our inquiry," Mr Price said.
It is unclear if ASIC will pursue criminal charges against Mr Palmer with the regulator's informal investigation into Queensland Nickel and Mr Palmer's alleged use of an alias in its preliminary stages.
Mr Palmer's office did not respond to repeated requests for comment.


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Lunch break. Got my usual General Tso Chicken from the local Chinese place. Beats me why they don’t understand “hot please, extra spicy” when they can speak decent English and the menu says “we can adjust the level of hot and spicy as you wish” right on it. But no. Their range is from no spice and no heat at all, all the way up to no spice and no heat at all. And I’ve been asking for more than a decade. They just don’t listen.
I’ve been having some deep thoughts about this election, but I don’t know if they will make it into essay form. Disappointment doesn’t even begin to cover it. I read what Vilmar wrote, and I agree. I read what Alan Caruba over at Theo’s wrote, and I agree ( America Commits Suicide). And I read what my man the JerseyNut wrote (here and here) and I agree. It truly sucks, and if there is any chance of a chance left to save our country next time, we have to do better. We have to reinvent the message and the messengers, from the ground up.
Part of the blame lie with the candidate, and in allowing the media to pick him. AGAIN. Nobody really wanted Romney, just like nobody really wanted McCain last time. And while we got behind him, and he ran a decent campaign, he was nobody’s favorite (other than Ann Coulter) and he didn’t fight the big fight.
Find us a real Republican. A real Conservative, but not an unhinged one.
Fight the media. Fight the meme. Change the message. Republicans do not hate the earth. We are not in favor of rampant pollution. But we want the rules and regulations at the EPA to be sane, in order to allow businesses to thrive and compete in the global economy. Republicans do not hate babies. Or old people. Or gays. Or blacks. Or people of Spanish influenced heritage who immigrated legally. We don’t hate women. That’s asinine. At least half the party is women. Please. But we don’t fight the meme, and the media continues to lambast us. That has to stop.
We need to dump the RINOS. All of them. We need to dump the pussy Republicans. All of them. We need to thin down our platform and cut out the dead wood. Toss the stupid ass abortion plank overboard. It’s a lead albatross that weighs us down. We need a counter-meme for that one: while we may not agree with it, it is the law of the land, and no single candidate can do a darn thing about it. It will take a constitutional amendment which requires 2/3 of the states to agree. So untwist your knickers and chill the hell out. It isn’t going anywhere. Period. Next question.
We need to infiltrate any number of “leftist” movements. There is no reason they should own the Green movement. There is no reason theirs should be the only voices in academic circles. Nor should they be the only ones buying Priuseses. Etc. So on and so forth. Like I said, deep thoughts that aren’t ready to expound on yet.
we need every single state and county official to get on a “take pride in the vote” movement that demands - starting right now, not 3 years 11 months and 20 days from now - that EVERY voter roll in the nation be kept provably accurate at all times. Voting may be a right, but cheating on it is a felony. And to bring back respect for the government you need to start at the very very very bottom and bring back respect for the voting process. And that means clean rolls, bullet-proof vote handling procedures, and trustworthy voting machines. Heck, for a few lousy billion we could replace every machine in the country with some new modern gimcrackery electronic machine with a paper printout.
We need to defeat the media, because they are our enemy.
And we need to be willing to fight, hard and dirty, when necessary. This “old boys at the country club” nonsense is a loser, when the other side is slinging firebombs, mud, and shit, telling lies left and right, and sending their thugs around to intimidate voters at the polls. Which are decorated with Obama murals for heaven’s sake. Crivens. It’s gonna be a BIG job.
And it’s all of our jobs. Not just the elected folks and the official party officials.
By the time this term is over the debt will be 20 trillion dollars and no one will be willing to fix That shit so I will do my part and dodge paying “ my fair share” like as humming bird on Crack.Good luck with the fix up Drew, consider iron bars on the windows.
”....but not an unhinged one.”
We had one but he was viewed as a rich elite corporate raider. Unfortunately the left adores unhingedness.
“Dump Rinos” YES
“make every voter provable” Absolutely Until the “fill out this absentee voter form and we’ll take care of it for you.” (wink wink) Stops there will always be cheating. No more “Oops. Here’s a crate of ballots that I forgot was in the trunk of the car.” A deadline must be imposed for turning in all ballots.
Until we own the media anybody not towing the party line and parroting the talking points will be out of a job.
When the American voter gets an attention span longer than a squirrel’s and can stay focused on the REAL issues they will continue to vote stupidly.
Clean out party officials who aren’t doing their job.
Romney and McCain only got votes on two things: 1) those who ALWAYS vote R no matter the candidate and 2) on their VP pick they picked up people like me - who for their values and conscience can’t vote for a RINO but decided to chose hemlock over arsenic (Ann Coulter in 2008) simply because their second would be set up to run down the road. The big o will be dumping Biden (or Biden will ‘suddenly’ have a ‘health issue’(for the good of the party)) by the end of the year so that he can put in a an even bigger socialist to finish the job.
The party leaders (GOP) need to get off their high (entitled) horse and start looking at these young guns (they didn’t back Mandel here in OH - so Brown got back in) and really didn’t back Ryan because they know, it spells the end of the ‘go along to get along’ ‘settling for crumbs and scraps’ - but still being in the game. It is a shame that they don’t realize that the young guns will set the game back to a more equal ground.
Don’t expect the msm to come around. Back in the beginning of OIF a reporter called his home office - ‘we’re being attacked, it’s awful out there’. Boss: ‘It hasn’t come across the wire, so I don’t believe you’. Less than 5 minutes later, the AP sent the wire that that specific place was under attack, the boss called back and said, ‘Give me the scoop’. The guy said ‘Why should I, when I called you didn’t believe me.’ They are convinced that being the State Media will do away with all complaints and complainers against them.
I weep for America.
harley - the officials who should all be cleaned out - are the Dems in PA who allowed the bs - no GOP watchers, Obama gear & mural - and an end of 95% Obama with a +30% over registered voters voting. They all allowed it, they all probably encouraged it, but worse they all did nothing to stop it - and in the end - it is Election Fraud pure and simple. Stolen votes destroy the system - and only is just another brick in the wall to destroy America.
I also weep for the country I love. I can no longer bear the thought of bringing children into this world they would grow up in...so I hope the women I date from now on can understand and accept this.

domain: politics


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So there are these nights when I have usually had the day to myself and things are going pretty well. I’ve gotten dinner out before everyone has turned into hungry monsters and usually there are candles. And my husband gets water for everyone and beams at me across the table. And these are the nights where the kids put the napkins out when I ask them to, and when they say (get ready for this) Thank you mom for this beautiful dinner. Yes, it’s rare, but these nights come around every so often. And usually they coincide with the presence of chicken soup and dumplings. Because if there is one thing that you can be sure of, it is that kids+dumplings=happy.
So I know that we’ve all got our chicken soup recipes, but I find that chicken soup is all too often missing dumplings, so here’s my very own chicken soup:

domain: food