text:
The search for the next University of North Carolina system president has finally concluded. Margaret Spellings, secretary of the U.S. Education Department during George W. Bush’s second presidential term (2005-2009), was unanimously elected by the system’s Board of Governors last Friday. She’ll take the helm in March 2016 with a starting salary of $775,000 (a substantial raise over the $600,000 received by outgoing president Thomas Ross).
Spellings is a moderate Republican, but one who shows some promise of developing into a reform-minded university leader—a very welcome possibility. She opposes what she calls universities’ “send us the money and leave us alone” approach, and some of her views on higher education challenge those of the academic establishment.
She was perhaps best known during her time as education secretary for her vigorous support of the No Child Left Behind Act. That policy, featuring extensive testing of K-12 students, was highly controversial and criticized by both left and right.
More important as an indication of the direction she will take atop the UNC system is her Commission on the Future of Higher Education. She convened the commission (which included former North Carolina Governor Jim Hunt, a Democrat) during her first year as Education Secretary, and tasked it with finding ways to increase college access and improve affordability, quality, and accountability.
The result was a 2006 report entitled A Test of Leadership: Charting the Future of U.S. Higher Education. Its major recommendations called for policymakers to:
- “Dramatically expand” access to higher education while reducing the need for remediation;
- Encourage colleges to embrace online technology and learning innovations;
- Provide a “significant increase in need-based financial aid” while “streamlining” the financial aid application process;
- Improve learning outcomes by urging the use of “value-added” assessments such as the Collegiate Learning Assessment;
- Expand collection of student and institutional data to create a “consumer-friendly” web tool to help students and parents make more informed college decisions;
- Increase federal funding in science, technology, engineering, and math fields.
Other recommendations were aimed at improving colleges’ finances and eliminating unnecessary costs. They targeted burdensome federal and state regulations of higher education, administrative bloat, and anticompetitive accreditation processes.
One proposal to cut red tape was intended to spur innovation. It called for:
accreditation agencies to act in a more timely manner to accredit new institutions and new programs at existing institutions, while focusing on results and quality rather than dictating, for example, process, inputs, and governance, which perpetuates current models and impedes innovation.
A Test of Leadership, in other words, was a mixture of ideas. That’s partly because it represented the views of the Commission’s various members, who included university and business leaders such as James Duderstadt (former University of Michigan president), as well as more conservative reformers, such as economist Richard Vedder.
Spellings approved the recommendations and urged action on the part of universities. Additionally, she drafted Education Department regulations that would have required accreditors to consider learning outcomes during their reviews—in effect tying colleges’ ability to accept federal student aid dollars to the educational results of their students.
Establishment higher education lobbyists vehemently fought the proposed regulations. They compared their potential impact to that of No Child Left Behind and said that they amounted to a de facto federal takeover of higher education curricula.
Critics came from the conservative side of the aisle as well. The National Association of Scholars’s Peter Wood, a supporter of the liberal arts and more rigorous core curricula, said that the Education Department’s emphasis on assessment was “a distraction and, at worse, a menace” that presumed that experts could correctly identify which skills should be obtained from a given course.
But perhaps the biggest dagger to Spellings’ regulatory reform proposal came from Senator Lamar Alexander—a former Education Secretary and former president of the University of Tennessee. In a statement to Spellings, he said that, even though he agreed that accountability was important, Congress had the constitutional authority to regulate such matters, not the Education Department.
The political momentum opposing the regulations proved to be overwhelming; Congress eventually scrapped Spellings’ proposals, including one that would have created a federal database of student information based on retention rates, graduation rates, and transcripts.
In another controversy during Spellings’ tenure at the Department of Education, Diane Auer Jones, a senior official, resigned in protest in 2008. Jones cited concerns about the department’s lack of appreciation for the liberal arts and excessive emphasis on satisfying the narrow needs of businesses.
Shortly after resigning, she told the Chronicle of Higher Education that Spellings had adopted a relatively loose approach to accreditation reform, preferring that colleges develop their own standards and be critiqued accordingly. Other top officials, however, preferred “bright-line,” top-down standards, which created departmental tension.
Jones was especially upset at the department’s treatment of the American Academy for Liberal Education (AALE), a conservative-leaning accreditation body that, since the early 1990s, has emphasized Western civilization, the humanities, and rigorous general education requirements. Most important, it permitted new schools an alternative route to accreditation, enabling them to receive federal aid.
In 2007, the department stripped AALE of its federal authorization on the basis that it had inadequately measured student performance via graduation rates, test scores, and so forth. The ban was eventually lifted, but it nonetheless delivered a significant blow to AALE.
That is not to say Spellings’ tenure at the Education Department came entirely to naught. For instance, the creation of the Voluntary System of Accountability (VSA) was motivated largely by the Spellings Commission.
The VSA is a consortium of roughly 300 colleges and universities that has pushed for greater transparency in higher education, including better student learning outcomes. It operates College Portraits, a website that keeps tabs on a variety of information, including results from employer surveys and “competency-based” tests such as the ETS Proficiency Profile and Collegiate Learning Assessment. Such tests measure students’ broad learning gains over time, and demonstrate how well colleges are preparing them for the white-collar workforce.
Other than her support for outcomes and accountability, what views does Spellings hold in regard to higher education? Her responses from a 2010 debate at the National Press Club that focused on the resolution, “To remain a world class economic power, the U.S. workforce needs more college graduates,” offer illumination:
- “As our country grows more diverse, we must do what we Americans have never done before—and that is find ways for more people of color to enter and successfully complete college.”
- On socioeconomic affirmative action vs. traditional, race-based affirmative action: “I think both can be used. We need to make sure every kid of every color is academically prepared to be successful in whatever they want to do in life, including choosing college. And we’re a long way from doing that.”
- “We have to get beyond this idea that we’re going to have a veterinary school or an education school or a medical school or a law school or a Spanish program on every street corner in America. We can’t do it like that anymore. We’ve got to use technology and be economically sensible about how we offer coursework.”
Spellings, a University of Houston graduate (bachelor’s in political science) and former member of the Apollo Group’s board of directors (Apollo is the parent company of the University of Phoenix), told reporters last Friday that she supports online higher education alternatives.
“You name it, we need it,” she said. “Because we have lots of work to do to reach the kind of [degree] attainment that we need. So I don’t think we should be threatened by that. That industry [online for-profit colleges] invented higher education that was more convenient for many working adults, [and] many in traditional higher education have responded.”
As Spellings prepares to take the reins of the UNC system, she’ll have to navigate a fractured state higher education system. At her press conference, however, she showed signs that she may not grasp how deep the divisions go or how limited her initial support may be.
For one thing, she may face intense faculty resistance. But Spellings rejected that possibility: “I expect the faculty to react well to my appointment. And I have skills that are different from theirs. I’m not an academic and I’m not a teacher. I’m not a researcher. I’m somebody who understands public policymaking. I understand advocacy and how to bring people together around a shared mission…. I’d ask [faculty] to give me a chance. I’m thrilled to be working with them,” she said.
But her “different skill set,” along with her long association with the Bush family and her involvement as a board member of a for-profit university, are not likely to endear her to UNC’s largely left-leaning faculty.
For example, at last Friday’s Board of Governors meeting, Altha Cravey, a geography professor at UNC-Chapel Hill, referred to Spellings as a “political hack” who wants to turn the UNC system into a vocational training system.
Furthermore, Spellings’s emphasis on learning outcomes is viewed very negatively by many faculty. Stephen Leonard, the head of the UNC system’s Faculty Assembly, has suggested that it could create conflict in the future.
And she may also be mistaken about how the UNC system is supposed to work. When asked about her perception of the role of the Governors in the UNC system, she told the Pope Center that, going forward, she plans to “work with the Board of Governors to bring them together around shared goals, [and] to be about results over process.”
Disregard for the importance of process is not what is needed in a new UNC president. Processes are how a system curtails executive excesses, and there is a raging public debate about that very topic at this very moment—in a large part over Spellings’s appointment. It would be best if she listened to those on the board who believe that maintaining good procedures with proper checks and balances is essential to good governance of a university system. Her road could be very rocky if she fails to give more voice to dissident members of the board.
Still, in many ways, Spellings brings a breath of fresh air to a system that badly needs change in a broad range of issues. We wish her the best and hope she can quickly surmount any initial difficulties.

domain: politics


text:
An international matrimony, transnational marital relationship or worldwide marriage, may be a legally binding marriage associating two people from different areas. People who are preparing to get married over and above their own nation usually opt for a transnational marriage ceremony since the with legal requirements and rewards are practically similar to those of national marriages. To a overseas observer, both bride and the groom mimic they emerged straight from the neighboring country.
There are a lot of reasons why people choose to be married overseas: to get a overseas name, to escape cultural limitations, to have a international education or knowledge, to start a fresh life in a different region, or to easily get love. However , international relationships pose some particular problems for the foreign-born associates. While currently being newly wed might seem just like a privilege, there are a variety of issues to consider when planning these kinds of marriages.
When ever couples enter an international relationship or romantic relationship, they may choose to cancel their particular native relationship plans in order to get married once and for all. This is certainly problematic as it deprives their children of the probability to come from their native land and stay raised with a pair of hitched parents. In a few cases, the lovers even will not return to their house country to witness the actualization of this marriage. In such instances, it is very challenging to undo the international divorce issues. Even if the husband and wife later opt to proceed considering the divorce, generally there won’t be any certainty that their children will ever see their home country once again.
Another significant problem with overseas marriages would be that the couple has to travel a lot to meet up with one another frequently. A current survey implies that marriages between foreign-born people often fail because of this. Many those that belong to completely different countries generally don’t know how much time they have to associated with flight to go to their loved ones. This may lead to several problems, which includes long separations that lead to separations.
If you are a foreign-born individual and then you’re planning to marry, there are several basic steps you asian mail order bride can take to be able to prevent this condition from developing. First, make an effort to make your spouse realize that the separation is definitely not a serious option. You can not just give up him/her and move to a further country if you don’t want to be collectively. This is a note that you must convey to your partner in order to prevent complications and misunderstandings via arising during the process of the international marriage. Additionally it is important for you to contact your country’s consul instantly when you plan to get divorced. The consul will be able to give you info on your legal rights and help you file for the divorce.
Some foreign-born people try to cover their identification so as not to ever be discriminated against when it comes to their function and casing opportunities. Some even try to fake all their identity to be able to hide their particular marital data. For this reason, it’s very important that you consult with your land departments and let them know about your intention to get divorced. The property departments will then prepare your documents and make necessary arrangements towards your divorce papers. After receiving the notice, you must immediately signup in a local court and start the process of under legal standing getting your divorce.

domain: sociology


text:
ROCK SPRINGS — The first serious winter storm will be dropping into Wyoming over the next several days with rain turning to snow and high impact travel conditions through Friday afternoon.
According to meteorologist Don Day, strong winds and winter storm conditions will blanket the Cowboy State and much of the Rocky Mountain Region beginning this afternoon. The east, north and central parts of the state will see the highest impacts from this storm, but the Wyoming Department of Transportation is sending early warnings for travel all around the state.
Make sure you plan ahead if you’re traveling this weekend, and check the WYDOT Travel Information Service link often.
Here is the latest Road Impact Report from WYDOT. Safe travels!

domain: travel


This is how excited Peace are to be coming to Australia this year for Groovin The Moo 2015. Pay no mind to their artfully blank expressions and deadpan delivery, these UK indie rockers are frothing to hop a plane Down Under. So much so that they’ve penned a special heartfelt sonnet just for us and it’s, uh, well, it’s really something.
In the freshly Facebook-uploaded video for their ode to all things Aussie, the quartet wax lyrical about Australiany things such as Vegemite and Tim Tams, while chilling out with some scaly blue-tongue lizard mates, as well as superimposed koalas, emus and what’s probably the Great Barrier Reef.
Watching frontman Harry Koisser draped in an Australian flag like some kind of patriotic trauma victim while crooning choice lyrics such as “Vegemite incites delight on English tongues / triple j’s flooding my eardrums”, it’s difficult not to be somewhat perplexed by this strange and perhaps unnecessary tribute to our nation’s proud stereotypes. But still, far be it from us to spurn the attention.
Peace are headed to our shores this month for Groovin The Moo and have recently announced a run of headlining dates on the back of the roaming outdoor festival.
So, is their love song to Australia just a cute, tongue-in-cheek show of affection or something more akin to finding out that the creepy kid at school has a secret shrine to you inside their locker? You be the judge. Either way, thanks, Peace. We really needed the confidence boost today.
Watch: Peace – ‘Sup Australia
Australia. This is how much we're looking forward to our upcoming tour. X
Posted by Peace on Thursday, April 9, 2015


|By PR Newswire||
|February 27, 2013 05:00 AM EST||
ARMONK, N.Y., Feb. 27, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- To help communications service providers meet increasing network traffic demand, lower costs and reduce the time needed to deploy new services, IBM (NYSE: IBM) today announced its support for the virtualization of network infrastructure that will extend the benefits of a cloud delivery model to communications networks.
Separating network functions from purpose-built hardware can speed the deployment of new services while reducing the economic burden on clients, a key goal of IBM's Smarter Communications initiative. To achieve this goal, IBM is working with Business Partners as they create new solutions tailored for telecom. For example, Australian mobile carrier Optus recently tested a new mobile network capacity solution from Connectem Inc. running on IBM PureFlex.
"The IBM PureFlex platform is uniquely suited to enable virtualization of network functions that are implemented as software applications running on elastic, on-demand infrastructure in 3G, 4G or Wi-Fi wireless networks," said Jacqueline Woods, global vice president of Systems Software & Growth Initiatives, IBM Systems & Technology Group. "We continue to support our partners as they develop and bring to market innovative solutions on the PureFlex platform."
The IBM PureSystems family offers carriers an alternative to current enterprise computing models, where multiple and disparate systems require significant resources to set up and maintain.
The Virtual Core for Mobile (VCM) is a software solution from Connectem, an IBM Business Partner, which has the potential to deliver higher network performance during peak usage periods, where millions of customers could be accessing a mobile network via smartphones or tablets. A virtualized solution can rapidly switch computing resources to deliver incremental capacity on-demand. As a result, customers experience lower network latency even during periods of peak network activity.
The Connectem VCM software running on IBM PureFlex platform is a part of a key initiative that can dramatically reduce the time to deploy new services as software applications on general-purpose computing platforms. Australia's Optus is looking at the new technology to explore opportunities that cloud services can enable in delivering outstanding customer experience.
"As we continue to expand Optus 4G across Australia, we are also exploring ideas such as flexible network infrastructure and how that can potentially fit into our long-term network strategy to deliver even more benefits to our customers," said Gunther Ottendorfer, Managing Director of Networks at Optus.
Connectem VCM architecture and software have been developed to comply with the best practices to meet the strict service requirements expected of the Mobile Broadband carriers. This new software architecture, combined with the powerful, high-performance virtualization built into the PureFlex platform, will help enable the quick adoption of new services and business models which are critical for Mobile carriers.
"Connectem looks forward to working with IBM," said Barry Hill, VP Sales & Marketing, Connectem. "We are excited about the potential to re-define the economics and innovation in the Mobile Broadband market with this solution running on the IBM PureFlex platform."
For more information on IBM PureSystems visit: www.ibm.com/press/pure
For more information on Connectem Inc. visit: www.connectem.net
IBM, the IBM logo, ibm.com, PureSystems, PureFlex, PureApplication, PureData, Smarter Planet and the planet icon are trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. Other product and service names might be trademarks of IBM or other companies. For a current list of IBM trademarks, please see www.ibm.com/legal/copytrade.shtml.
All other company, product or service names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of others. Statements concerning IBM's future development plans and schedules are made for planning purposes only, and are subject to change or withdrawal without notice. Reseller prices may vary.
IBM Global Communications
IBM Systems and Technology Group
Join us at Cloud Expo | @ThingsExpo 2016 – June 7-9 at the Javits Center in New York City and November 1-3 at the Santa Clara Convention Center in Santa Clara, CA – and deliver your unique message in a way that is striking and unforgettable by taking advantage of SYS-CON's unmatched high-impact, result-driven event / media packages.
May. 26, 2016 06:00 PM EDT Reads: 2,262
Internet of @ThingsExpo, taking place November 1-3, 2016, at the Santa Clara Convention Center in Santa Clara, CA, is co-located with the 19th International Cloud Expo and will feature technical sessions from a rock star conference faculty and the leading industry players in the world and ThingsExpo New York Call for Papers is now open.
May. 26, 2016 06:00 PM EDT Reads: 1,751
In his keynote at 18th Cloud Expo, Andrew Keys, Co-Founder of ConsenSys Enterprise, will provide an overview of the evolution of the Internet and the Database and the future of their combination – the Blockchain. Andrew Keys is Co-Founder of ConsenSys Enterprise. He comes to ConsenSys Enterprise with capital markets, technology and entrepreneurial experience. Previously, he worked for UBS investment bank in equities analysis. Later, he was responsible for the creation and distribution of life ...
May. 26, 2016 06:00 PM EDT Reads: 1,860
18th Cloud Expo, taking place June 7-9, 2016, at the Javits Center in New York City, NY, will feature technical sessions from a rock star conference faculty and the leading industry players in the world. Cloud computing is now being embraced by a majority of enterprises of all sizes. Yesterday's debate about public vs. private has transformed into the reality of hybrid cloud: a recent survey shows that 74% of enterprises have a hybrid cloud strategy. Meanwhile, 94% of enterprises are using some...
May. 26, 2016 04:45 PM EDT Reads: 3,040
SYS-CON Events announced today that Commvault, a global leader in enterprise data protection and information management, has been named “Bronze Sponsor” of SYS-CON's 18th International Cloud Expo, which will take place on June 7–9, 2016, at the Javits Center in New York City, NY, and the 19th International Cloud Expo, which will take place on November 1–3, 2016, at the Santa Clara Convention Center in Santa Clara, CA. Commvault is a leading provider of data protection and information management...
May. 26, 2016 04:45 PM EDT Reads: 2,974
The IoTs will challenge the status quo of how IT and development organizations operate. Or will it? Certainly the fog layer of IoT requires special insights about data ontology, security and transactional integrity. But the developmental challenges are the same: People, Process and Platform. In his session at @ThingsExpo, Craig Sproule, CEO of Metavine, will demonstrate how to move beyond today's coding paradigm and share the must-have mindsets for removing complexity from the development proc...
May. 26, 2016 04:30 PM EDT Reads: 1,857
SYS-CON Events announced today that Tintri Inc., a leading producer of VM-aware storage (VAS) for virtualization and cloud environments, will exhibit at the 18th International CloudExpo®, which will take place on June 7-9, 2016, at the Javits Center in New York City, New York, and the 19th International Cloud Expo, which will take place on November 1–3, 2016, at the Santa Clara Convention Center in Santa Clara, CA.
May. 26, 2016 04:30 PM EDT Reads: 2,212
SYS-CON Events announced today that Enzu, a leading provider of cloud hosting solutions, will exhibit at SYS-CON's 18th International Cloud Expo®, which will take place on June 7-9, 2016, at the Javits Center in New York City, NY. Enzu’s mission is to be the leading provider of enterprise cloud solutions worldwide. Enzu enables online businesses to use its IT infrastructure to their competitive advantage. By offering a suite of proven hosting and management services, Enzu wants companies to foc...
May. 26, 2016 04:15 PM EDT Reads: 2,172
SoftLayer operates a global cloud infrastructure platform built for Internet scale. With a global footprint of data centers and network points of presence, SoftLayer provides infrastructure as a service to leading-edge customers ranging from Web startups to global enterprises. SoftLayer's modular architecture, full-featured API, and sophisticated automation provide unparalleled performance and control. Its flexible unified platform seamlessly spans physical and virtual devices linked via a world...
May. 26, 2016 04:15 PM EDT Reads: 2,005
The IoT is changing the way enterprises conduct business. In his session at @ThingsExpo, Eric Hoffman, Vice President at EastBanc Technologies, discuss how businesses can gain an edge over competitors by empowering consumers to take control through IoT. We'll cite examples such as a Washington, D.C.-based sports club that leveraged IoT and the cloud to develop a comprehensive booking system. He'll also highlight how IoT can revitalize and restore outdated business models, making them profitable...
May. 26, 2016 04:15 PM EDT Reads: 2,737
SYS-CON Events announced today that BMC Software has been named "Siver Sponsor" of SYS-CON's 18th Cloud Expo, which will take place on June 7-9, 2015 at the Javits Center in New York, New York. BMC is a global leader in innovative software solutions that help businesses transform into digital enterprises for the ultimate competitive advantage. BMC Digital Enterprise Management is a set of innovative IT solutions designed to make digital business fast, seamless, and optimized from mainframe to mo...
May. 26, 2016 04:00 PM EDT Reads: 2,039
As cloud and storage projections continue to rise, the number of organizations moving to the cloud is escalating and it is clear cloud storage is here to stay. However, is it secure? Data is the lifeblood for government entities, countries, cloud service providers and enterprises alike and losing or exposing that data can have disastrous results. There are new concepts for data storage on the horizon that will deliver secure solutions for storing and moving sensitive data around the world. ...
May. 26, 2016 04:00 PM EDT Reads: 1,214
SYS-CON Events announced today that ContentMX, the marketing technology and services company with a singular mission to increase engagement and drive more conversations for enterprise, channel and SMB technology marketers, has been named “Sponsor & Exhibitor Lounge Sponsor” of SYS-CON's 18th Cloud Expo, which will take place on June 7-9, 2016, at the Javits Center in New York City, New York. “CloudExpo is a great opportunity to start a conversation with new prospects, but what happens after the...
May. 26, 2016 03:45 PM EDT Reads: 980
With major technology companies and startups seriously embracing IoT strategies, now is the perfect time to attend @ThingsExpo 2016 in New York and Silicon Valley. Learn what is going on, contribute to the discussions, and ensure that your enterprise is as "IoT-Ready" as it can be! Internet of @ThingsExpo, taking place Nov 3-5, 2015, at the Santa Clara Convention Center in Santa Clara, CA, is co-located with 17th Cloud Expo and will feature technical sessions from a rock star conference faculty ...
May. 26, 2016 03:45 PM EDT Reads: 2,490
Customer experience has become a competitive differentiator for companies, and it’s imperative that brands seamlessly connect the customer journey across all platforms. With the continued explosion of IoT, join us for a look at how to build a winning digital foundation in the connected era – today and in the future. In his session at @ThingsExpo, Chris Nguyen, Group Product Marketing Manager at Adobe, will discuss how to successfully leverage mobile, rapidly deploy content, capture real-time d...
May. 26, 2016 03:45 PM EDT Reads: 1,490
SYS-CON Events announced today the How to Create Angular 2 Clients for the Cloud Workshop, being held June 7, 2016, in conjunction with 18th Cloud Expo | @ThingsExpo, at the Javits Center in New York, NY. Angular 2 is a complete re-write of the popular framework AngularJS. Programming in Angular 2 is greatly simplified. Now it’s a component-based well-performing framework. The immersive one-day workshop led by Yakov Fain, a Java Champion and a co-founder of the IT consultancy Farata Systems and...
May. 26, 2016 03:30 PM EDT Reads: 3,937
IoT generates lots of temporal data. But how do you unlock its value? How do you coordinate the diverse moving parts that must come together when developing your IoT product? What are the key challenges addressed by Data as a Service? How does cloud computing underlie and connect the notions of Digital and DevOps What is the impact of the API economy? What is the business imperative for Cognitive Computing? Get all these questions and hundreds more like them answered at the 18th Cloud Expo...
May. 26, 2016 03:30 PM EDT Reads: 2,189
SYS-CON Events announced today that EastBanc Technologies will exhibit at SYS-CON's 18th International Cloud Expo®, which will take place on June 7-9, 2016, at the Javits Center in New York City, NY. EastBanc Technologies has been working at the frontier of technology since 1999. Today, the firm provides full-lifecycle software development delivering flexible technology solutions that seamlessly integrate with existing systems – whether on premise or cloud. EastBanc Technologies partners with p...
May. 26, 2016 03:00 PM EDT Reads: 2,069
Companies can harness IoT and predictive analytics to sustain business continuity; predict and manage site performance during emergencies; minimize expensive reactive maintenance; and forecast equipment and maintenance budgets and expenditures. Providing cost-effective, uninterrupted service is challenging, particularly for organizations with geographically dispersed operations.
May. 26, 2016 02:30 PM EDT Reads: 1,815
What a difference a year makes. Organizations aren’t just talking about IoT possibilities, it is now baked into their core business strategy. With IoT, billions of devices generating data from different companies on different networks around the globe need to interact. From efficiency to better customer insights to completely new business models, IoT will turn traditional business models upside down. In the new customer-centric age, the key to success is delivering critical services and apps wit...
May. 26, 2016 01:00 PM EDT Reads: 1,075


text:
The Court of Special Appeals recently reviewed various factors to consider when determining the appropriate forum for pending matters. Appellants Tracy Scott and her minor son, Charlie Scott appealed the judgment granting transfer of their claim from the Circuit Court for Baltimore City to the Circuit Court for Calvert County under the theory of forum non conveniens. The Court of Special Appeals held that the transfer was improper, and reversed and remanded the case to the forum that was originally selected by the plaintiffs.
Appellants Tracy Scott and Charlie Scott filed suit in Baltimore City Circuit Court alleging negligence on the part of Raja I. Hawit, M.D., Johns Hopkins Hospital and Johns Hopkins Hospital employees Carolyn J. Ogborn, M.D. and Tyler Reimschisel, M.D in a medical malpractice action. The claims against Ogborn and Reimschisel were subsequently dismissed. Dr. Hawit is a pediatrician that provided medical care to Charlie as a newborn and years thereafter at Calvert Memorial Hospital. Mr. Hawit’s practice is located is Hungtingtown, Calvert County. Johns Hopkins Hospital’s principal place of business is in Baltimore City.
In the Complaint, Appellants alleged that Dr. Hawit diagnosed Charlie Scott with jaundice and ordered tests for bilirubin on June 3, 2001, the day after Charlie’s birth. The test results placed Charlie in the “medium to high risk for developing kernicterus” category. Complications such as brain damage and hearing loss may occur when extremely high levels of bilirubin are found in the body. Charlie was tested again the next day and results indicated that he was placed in the “high risk category for development of kernicterus.” On June 8, 2001, Charlie was admitted to Calvert Memorial Hospital for double phototherapy and eventually discharged for administration of the treatment at home. On June 9, 2001, Dr. Hawit advised against the continuation of the at-home treatment and instructed Mrs. Scott to bring Charlie in for a follow up visit in three to four weeks.
Charlie was subsequently seen by Dr. Ogborn and Dr. Reimschisel and Johns Hopkins Hospital. Drs. Ogborn opined that Charlie was “a normally developing and healthy child” and stated that she and Dr. Reimschisel agreed that he did not require further evaluation or treatment.
By August 21, 2001, Charlie’s condition had worsened. Charlie was admitted to Children’s National Medical Center for seizures. Plaintiffs filed suit in Baltimore City Circuit Court alleging that Charlie’s injuries were permanent and due to inappropriately treated elevated bilirubin levels.
Dr. Hawit and John Hopkins Hospital responded to the Complaint by individually filing motions to transfer the action to Calvert County Circuit Court pursuant to Maryland Rule 2-327(c). A hearing regarding the motions took place in January 2012. The factors considered were: (1) plaintiffs’ residency in Calvert County, (2) Dr. Hawit’s medical office and residence were located in Calvert County, (3) the alleged tortious act took place in Calvert County, (4) Dr. Hawit does not regularly practice in Baltimore City, (5) Hopkins’ principal place of business is in Baltimore City, (6) the alleged negligence on the part of Hopkins’ agents took place in Baltimore City, and (7) venue was proper in Baltimore City. At the conclusion of arguments, the Circuit Court granted the motions to transfer, finding that the factors weighed strongly in favor of the case being tried in Calvert County: the residency of the plaintiffs, Dr. Hawit’s location and where the majority of the care at issue occurred.
The Court of Special Appeals held that the case could have been heard in either Baltimore City or Calvert County. The Court cited the Court of Appeals’ opinion in Nodeen v. Sigurdsson:
“Although the court generally has wide discretion in deciding whether to grant the motion [to transfer], it is an abuse of that discretion for the court to disturb a plaintiff's choice of venue when the balance does not weigh strongly in favor of the proponents of the transfer.”
Nodeen v. Sigurdsson, 408 Md. 180-81, 968 A.2d 1075, 1081-82 (2009).
The Court in the instant matter held that there was a meaningful connection to Baltimore City: it is the situs of one of the alleged torts said to produce Charlie Scott’s ultimate harm as well as the situs of the principal place of business of one of the defendants. The only factor that pointed solely toward Calvert County was the residence of the plaintiffs, yet the plaintiffs had been traveling from Calvert County to Baltimore City for treatment for several years. The Court further held that Baltimore City and its jurors would have an interest in the quality of medical care rendered there just as a Calvert County jury would. Although plaintiffs were “foreign” as Calvert County residents filing suit in Baltimore City, this factor did not tip the balance to support the holding that the "balance weighed strongly in favor of Calvert County.”
The Circuit Court judgment was reduced and the case remanded for further proceedings.
Article contributed by Danielle Williamson

domain: law


The DASA Registry is the primary contact point or communication method for the receipt and dispatch of official correspondence and nominated products into and out of DASA. This ensures documents are appropriately registered, tracked and passed to the correct appointment/s. Email: email@example.com
Please review DASA Function Group Mailboxes listed on this page for direct line of enquiries/correspondence/submissions.
Enquiries To be submitted to DASA as per email address identified in the "Submit Form" section of the Form itself.
Aerodromes, Heliport and Shipborne Heliport Certification
Enquiries related to Aerodrome, Heliport and Shipborne Heliport Certificates (Technical), or requests for technical advice and products can be submitted to the DASA Aerodromes Group email: firstname.lastname@example.org.
Air Navigation Support Providers (ANSP) and Aerodromes (AD) Operations
ANSP/AD provides regulatory training and promotion, and oversight & enforcement to support DASR ANSP and AD (DASR 139), including organisational approvals for ANSP and AD Accountable Manager organisations and Approval of Certified Aerodromes.
Group email: email@example.com.
Air Operational Review and Approvals
For enquiries pertaining to Air Operations please email: firstname.lastname@example.org.
For enquiries pertaining to Air Operational Reviews and Approvals please email: email@example.com.
Aircraft Certification and Production
Enquiries related to the following can be submitted to the DASA Type Cert Mailbox firstname.lastname@example.org:
- Applications for MTC, MSTC, MRTC, Major Change Approvals.
- Product certification process.
- Issue of MPTFs and approval of Flight Conditions.
- Issue of CoA.
- MTC holders and obligations.
Enquiries regarding feedback on the DASDRM can be submitted to DASA DTS Enquiries Mailbox email@example.com.
Enquiries regarding design technologies and standards can be submitted to DASA DTS Enquiries Mailbox firstname.lastname@example.org.
Enquiries related to design organisations and production can be submitted to the DASA.DIA Pt21 Mailbox email@example.com.
Aircraft Safety and Investigations
For incidents and accidents – Contact the ASR Service Desk for all ASR related support - firstname.lastname@example.org or 02 6128 7476.
For reportable occurrences to the Authority, please submit to: DASA Occurrence Reporting email@example.com.
For DFSB Investigation enquiries – Contact the DFSB Duty Officer for all Investigation related support – DFSB.firstname.lastname@example.org or (02) 6144 9199.
Airworthiness Board Coordination
For enquiries pertaining to Airworthiness Coordination and Policy please email: email@example.com.
Aviation Safety Management Systems
Enquiries related to the Aviation Safety Management Systems (ASMS) can be submitted to the DASA ASMS Mailbox firstname.lastname@example.org.
DASA Stakeholder Feedback
To provide stakeholder feedback to the Defence Aviation Safety Authority email: email@example.com.
DASA Training and Education
For enquiries regarding DASA training and education programs please e-mail: firstname.lastname@example.org.
For enquiries regarding DASA training governance please e-mail:
To provide feedback related to the Defence Aviation Safety Regulations (inclusive of AMC and GM) email: email@example.com or submit a DASR Query Form 110.
DAVENG Design and SME Advice
In the first instance, contact your desk officer. If unable to make contact please email the DAVENG group Mailbox firstname.lastname@example.org.
For any general enquiries relating to Non Destructive Testing and Composite Technologies, please contact email@example.com
Defence Aviation Safety - Annual Report
For enquiries pertaining to Defence Aviation Safety - Annual Report (DAS-AR): email firstname.lastname@example.org placing DAS-AR in the subject line.
DFSB Education and Training
For all DFSB Education and Training enquiries– Contact the E&D team for all related support – email@example.com.
Newsbreak Subscription and Website Feedback
To sign up to our information subscription service to receive up to date notification of events and document releases email: firstname.lastname@example.org..
To provide website feedback click here: Website Feedback.(Opens in a new tab/window)
Publishing and Multimedia
For all Publishing and Multimedia enquiries – Contact the P&M team for all related support – email@example.com or submit a Task Request Form.
Enquiries related to space activities can be submitted to the Director Space via the firstname.lastname@example.org group mailbox.
Uncrewed Aircraft Systems
Enquiries related to Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) can be submitted to the DASA.UAS Mailbox email@example.com.


With advancements in automotive technology, dash cams have become increasingly vital for drivers seeking peace of mind and enhanced security. This blog post will show you the latest improvements in dash cam technology, with new features that improve driving. We will explore how these advancements can change the way we operate.
The Rise of Dash Cam Technology: A Glimpse into the Past
From Analog to Digital – The Evolution of Dash Cams
Dash cams started as simple cameras that recorded blurry videos. Now, we are in the middle of a significant technology change. New dash cams are modern and have many features that do more than just record. They help drivers in different situations and are very advanced.
360-Degree Protection: The All-Seeing Eye of Modern Dash Cams
The time when dash cams only filmed the road ahead is over. The newest technology records every angle around the vehicle with 360-degree coverage. This comprehensive view helps drivers see everything around them, which makes driving safer. It’s also helpful for figuring out how accidents happen.
Intelligent Collision Detection: Beyond Recording to Preventing
Predicting the Unpredictable – Collision Detection Reimagined
New dash cams don’t just record; they also protect. These devices can analyze how people drive and the information from sensors to predict and stop crashes. This new feature improves safety by stepping in when it’s most important.
Cloud Connectivity: Real-Time Monitoring and Beyond
The Connected Drive – Dash Cams in the Cloud
Say bye to the storage limits on your device. Cloud connectivity has changed dash cam abilities a lot. Now, they can be monitored in real-time, footage can be accessed from far away, and important events can be shared easily. This feature makes things easier and allows people to work together to make roads safer.
Artificial Intelligence at the Wheel: Smart Dash Cams in Action
Beyond Recording – AI as Your Co-Driver
Artificial Intelligence (AI) makes dashcams even better. Now, dash cameras can analyze videos as they are happening to recognize things like objects and road signs. They can also respond to voice commands. This smartness helps with driving safety and shows what fully self-driving cars are like in the future.
Innovative Power Management: Efficiency Meets Sustainability
Eco-Friendly Cruising – The Power Behind Modern Dash Cams
As the world focuses on being more eco-friendly, dash cams are also becoming more environmentally friendly. Sophisticated energy management systems help your device use less power, which makes the battery last longer in your vehicle. This new idea helps the environment and ensures your dash cam is always ready to record when you want it to.
Dash Cam Night Vision: Making the Darkness Brighter
Shining a Light on the Unseen – dash cam Night Vision Takes the Stage
Driving at night has always been difficult, but now, with dash cam night vision technology make it easier to see in the dark. Infrared sensors take good pictures in the dark, which helps you see better and stay safe when driving at night. It changes the game for those who like to have adventures at night.
The Road Ahead: What’s Next for Dash Cam Technology
Anticipating Tomorrow – The Future of Dash Cam Innovation
As we enjoy the new improvements, dash cam technology will bring even more exciting possibilities in the future. From fancy screens that show more than reality to connecting with communication systems in cars, cool new things are coming that will change how we think about safety while driving.
Conclusion: Driving into the Future with Confidence
There are no limits to creative ideas in the fast-changing world of new dash cam technology. These devices have changed a lot. They can now see all around and detect when there might be a crash. They also use AI to help keep us safe on the roads. They are more than just cameras now; they can help prevent accidents. As we progress with technology, driving will not just change; it will be even better, with a future where every road is driven confidently and every moment is captured clearly. Fasten your seatbelt; we’re just starting our journey
into the future.


text:
Bad Librarian: The New Dash Shaw Comic Book Is Out Today, Too
It's called Cosplayers 2: Teuzkon. It should probably a bigger news story that a talent with Dash Shaw's combination of potential and pedigree is doing a serial comic book, given the scattershot nature of any alt-comic being published in these times. This is $5 for 32 pages. I'm not sure that everyone was aware this would be a series as opposed to a one-shot. Now you know.

domain: entertainment


New York Times correspondent Peter Baker should know better than to parrot GOP talking points. The filibuster is not constitutional. The Senate chose to slow itself down.
As part of a six-month investigation, The Times synchronized and mapped thousands of videos and police audio of the U.S. Capitol riot to provide the most complete picture to date of what happened — and why.
We constantly intervene in the elections around the world where elections are rigged or a despot does not leave after defeat. Could it be time that we get foreign countries to intervene in America similarly?
Online readers of the New York Times might have been forgiven if, when they got to the editorial section on June 24, they thought they had accidentally jumped to the website of Socialist Action.
New York Op-Ed Columnist Michelle Goldberg had sort of a freak-out on MSNBC’s All In with Chris Hayes as she discussed Trump’s dereliction of duty.
Is the New York Times repeating the Iraq reporting fiasco perpetrated by their star reporter Judith Miller on Venezuela? You be the judge.
For almost 20 years, the paper has suggested that Israel/Palestine risks devolving into an apartheid state if it continues to rule over Palestinians in the territories.
President Donald Trump has already shown an alarming escalation of irrational behavior during times of distress. He is a clear and present danger.
Purposefully sloppy reporting about single-payer Medicare for all is a more significant hurdle to overcome than the transition to the program itself.
Americans’ desire for Progressive values is being challenged by the New York Times. The Plutocracy is now in fear on one of its flanks.


text:
All listings for this product
About this product
- DescriptionWith his rich evocation of the Italian Renaissance-like realm of Landfall, his uniquely appealing way with flawed yet empathic characters and his ability to write gripping scenes of both action and subterfuge, Den Patrick has already established himself as a new favourite for fans of Scott Lynch and Robin Hobb alike. Ten years have passed since the disappearence of Lucien and his protege, the young swordsman Di, is struggling to live up to Lucien's legacy. Sworn to protect the silent queen Anea as she struggles to bring a new democracy to Demesne, Di finds himself drawn into a deadly game of political intrigue as the aristocratic families of Landfall conspire to protect their privilege. Always ready to prove himself as a swordsman Di is anguished to discover that in order to fulfil his vow he must become both spy and assassion. And all the while the dark secret at the heart of Demesne is growing towards fulfilment.
- Author BiographyDen Patrick worked as a comics writer for Titan, a copywriter and as a bookseller before becoming a writer full time. His War Manuals were published by Gollancz in 2013, followed by THE BOY WITH THE PORCELAIN BLADE in 2014. He lives in south east London.
- Author(s)Den Patrick
- PublisherOrion Publishing Co
- Date of Publication08/10/2015
- SubjectScience Fiction & Fantasy
- Place of PublicationLondon
- Country of PublicationUnited Kingdom
- Weight290 g
- Width137 mm
- Height200 mm
- Spine28 mm
- Format DetailsB-format paperback
Best-selling in Fiction Books
Save on Fiction Books
- AU $14.24Trending at AU $14.43
- AU $7.43Trending at AU $13.80
- AU $13.21Trending at AU $15.11
- AU $14.94Trending at AU $19.85
- AU $11.92Trending at AU $16.07
- AU $19.23Trending at AU $23.93
- AU $19.94Trending at AU $23.06
This item doesn't belong on this page.
Thanks, we'll look into this.

domain: artistic


text:
Book Promo Days
Two things. First, I’ll be abbreviating Book Promotion Day to Book Promo Day – and yes, I’m going to leave out the apostrophe! I know it’s the wrong thing to do, but it suits me in this case. I’m sorry of I upset any apostrophe lovers out there. Second, a reminder that you need to get your submissions in by 9pm BST (British Summer Time) on a Wednesday! Remember – this is free advertising!
To Be A Writer
I was asked, recently, to write a recommendation for a fellow author, on LinkedIn. Now I would normally refuse such a request, unless I knew their work, had worked with them or knew them personally, rather than through the internet. On this occasion, however, the request got me thinking. Those thoughts are given below.
It only takes a whim to want to right a book, or say you would like to. It takes far more to actually write a book! And writing is far from the end of the affair. Tenacity, emotional strength and faith in yourself are essential. Without them, a book remains a pile of paper or a computer file, never seeing the light of day. That a person has the three essentials should tell you much about them! There’s something else that’s true of many writers – they’re chasing a dream, often one that they have held for many years. That puts an enormous burden of desire on them. I say ‘many writers’ because there are writers less interested in the written word than in the profit it could bring them. Particularly since the internet came into being, the world has been subjected to a constant stream of books about how to make huge sums of money, achieve every dream you could possibly hold (including some you never knew you had), become the epitome of ‘the body perfect’, cure every disease known to Man (and then some) and various other such matters. It seems that we could cure the world of all its ills and create a perfect species out of ourselves, if only we would read, and follow the advice of, these hundreds,or thousands, of books! Of course, there’s really one objective in the vast majority of these writer’s minds: making a fortune for themselves.
On a personal level, I admit to being a dreamer. I have been since before I discovered the need to write. A fairly solitary child in much of my play activities, absolutely anything could be imbued with a being. I had a large number of toy soldiers, from the delightfully numerous 1/72nd scale sets to the ordinary large, moulded plastic, toys. Despite this, I was too young to enjoy how long it took to move them for battles. As a result, nearly every battle my ‘puppets’ were involved in didn’t actually feature the toy soldiers at all. Instead, I would divide my excellent collection of marbles into two armies. Oh, how wonderfully swiftly they could move! Outdoors, in the seemingly endless heat of summer, I would occupy a very small patch of grass in the back garden. This had suffered, at some time, from being waterlogged, so that it was more patches and tussocks of grass than a lawn. The hard, clay soil that existed between the grassy patches (and there many of them, all interconnected) made wonderful roads for my toy cars to use. Now, my Dad is an accomplished gardener (he and his brother once worked for themselves as landscape gardeners) and always took a pride in the garden looking good, with neat lawns beautifully mowed and clipped. Seeing me play as I did on this scrap of grass, though, he never did anything to make it fit the character of a lawn, however small. There were many times that my imagination did more to occupy me than the toys I had at my disposal. When I discovered writing what I wanted to write, the consequences were inevitable!
At school, like all pupils, I was required to write essays. I admit that my work was far from satisfactory to my teachers! Very early on, I discovered that I just couldn’t write anything of any worth about a subject I had no feeling for. Sadly, that was most of the time. But, there were a few rare occasions when a subject caught my imagination or interest, and I would then write and write and write! The customary barely filled one side of paper I handed in would now be sheet after sheet, though the longer I wrote, the worse my handwriting got, as excitement drove me on. Eventually, I encountered an English teacher who recognised what was happening, and encouraged the creative spark, rather than trying to quench it as all others before had done.
Does this mean, then, that writing is painless and without effort for me? Far from it! There’s a very real pain involved in not writing, for one thing. There’s also a feverishness involved in writing, something that’s capable of burning you up, driving you to utter exhaustion. Even without deadlines, there come times when you just have to finish a part of your story. Then there are those frustrating times when the words just don’t come, or are unsatisfactory. There are moments when a word insists on being repeated too often and that wonderful thesaurus in your head refuses to help correct the situation, so you end up poring over a printed version to find much needed alternatives. And that’s just the beginning! When you write that last word and sit back, spent but happy, you have only a brief time to enjoy the accomplishment. The rereading, editing, rewriting and such must begin. And if you decide to go for publication… oh, the headaches are innumerable!
So can a writer recommend another writer, who they don’t know? The answer is yes. To a degree, that is. You can write a recommendation that never actually addresses the questions of how good a writer is, or how well they may adhere to deadlines, or what kind of person they are. It’s perfectly possible to write a recommendation that is based on the general character of any writer – on what it takes to be a writer.

domain: literature


text:
What does an Assessing Officer do?
An Income Tax Assessing Officer computes and processes your tax liability. She is also the first point of contact between you and the tax authority for any disputes or grievances. She has the power to ask for bookkeeping records, accounts etc. in order to verify income tax returns of a taxpayer.
What determines an Income Tax Officer’s jurisdiction?
Tax offices in a state are divided into areas, ranges, circles and then wards. An Assessing Officer is attached to a particular ward.
For the purposes of jurisdiction, the tax payer’s registered address as recorded in her PAN, determines where and who her AO will be.
Why do I need to know the jurisdiction of my AO?
The jurisdiction of an Assessing Officer becomes important in case there is a dispute or grievance with your income tax return. Communicating with this tax official is far easier and more convenient when done online. All notices, intimations, orders and other correspondence have easy online methods for resolution when you have e-filed your income declarations instead of having done it manually.
However, you can make applications for a pertinent tax matter directly to your AO.
For the Financial Year 2017-18, e-filing is compulsory where your annual income exceeds Rupees 500,000 or where you are seeking a refund of income tax or you are below 80 years of age and you cross the minimum threshold of income tax rate exemption.
There is also a penalty of up to Rupees 10,000 for failing to file your ITR from this Assessment year.
How Do I find my Jurisdictional Assessing Officer?
- To begin, go to the official income tax login portal.
- Under the Quick Links Section to the left, click on “Know your PAN/ TAN/ AO”. Make sure you click on “AO” only.
- Enter your PAN and mobile number to receive a One-Time Password. Click on Submit.
- Enter the password and click on Submit again.
- You will now see your Area Code, AO Type, Range Code, AO number, jurisdiction and the name of the building in which the AO’s office is located.
Can I inform my AO about a change in address?
When you change your address of residence you should apply to the Income Tax Department for updating this information. You can either write to your AO or you can update your address as registered with your PAN card. This may require other proof, like an updated AADHAAR card or other identification.
You must submit this application to the currently applicable jurisdictional tax officer.
You can update your PAN address by visiting the tin-nsdl portal after paying the requisite fee. In this case, you choose the option that says, “Request for New PAN Card Or/ And Changes Or Correction in PAN Data (PAN Change Request Form)”. Remember to note down the 15 digit acknowledgment number at the end of the netbanking transaction. It usually takes 15 days to receive a response and have the address change request processed.
Changes automatically get reflected in the IT Department database.
Are you tax prepared? We’re here to help.

domain: economics


USPS seeks increase in cost of stamps, to 49 cents
1 of 1
In this Feb. 7 file photo, U.S. Postal Service letter carrier, Jamesa Euler, delivers mail, in Atlanta.
Photos: Basketball: UH Senior Night, March 8
Photos: H.S. Softball: Punahou vs. Kamehameha, March 8
Photos: Softball: UH vs. Pacific, March 6
More Photo Galleries »


Weight loss due to dietary changes can improve sleepiness at any weight, says a study published by researchers from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania this month in the journal Sleep. The findings offer new insights into how weight fluctuations impact numerous aspects of sleep independent of body weight.
Previous studies have linked obesity with persistent sleepiness, lack of energy during the day, and poor sleep quality, all of which can be successfully combatted with weight loss treatment. But until now, researchers have known little about the link between excessive weight, poor dietary habits, and sleep/wake abnormalities.
Nearly 185 million adults and 24 million children in the United States are overweight or obese. In Philadelphia, an estimated 68 percent of adults are overweight or obese. Beyond impaired cognitive function, poor sleep is associated with a host of chronic health problems including depression, obesity, and hypertension. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 50 to 70 million U.S. adults experience sleep or wakefulness disorders.
In the current research, obesity was studied using diet-induced obese mice. Half the mice were randomly chosen to receive regular chow (RC) while the other mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD, more than three times higher in fat content) for eight weeks. At the end of that period, some of the mice were switched to the alternative diet for one week, causing newly-fed HFD mice to gain weight and newly-fed RC mice to lose weight, while the rest of the mice continued to consume their current diet.
After the ninth week, mice maintained on HFD weighed 30 percent more, slept more than one hour longer per day, and suffered from increased wake fragmentation (frequently slipping into sleep) compared to mice maintained on RC. The “diet switch” groups, however, had similar body weight at week nine, but completely different sleep/wake profiles when compared to each other.
“Our findings suggest body weight is a less important factor than changes in weight for regulating sleepiness,” said the study’s lead author, Isaac Perron, a PhD student in Neuroscience at the University of Pennsylvania. “Diet-induced obese mice that ate a regular chow diet for only one week showed the same sleep/wake profile as mice that ate a regular chow diet for nine weeks.”
The findings have implications for the lean population as well, since mice consuming the low-fat diet for eight weeks followed by only one week of HFD had similar sleep as those eating a HFD for nine weeks.
“The diet consumed during the final week was key to driving the sleep effects, independent of the starting body weight,” said Perron. “If you’re overweight and often feel tired, you may not need to lose all the weight to improve sleep, but rather just beginning to lose that excess weight may improve your sleep abnormalities and wake impairments.”
As individuals pursue these dietary changes, they may start to feel more awake during the day and be motivated to live a healthier lifestyle.
“This study has mapped a completely novel food and sleep interaction,” said co-author Sigrid Veasey, MD, DABSM, a professor in the division of Sleep Medicine and a member of Penn’s Center for Sleep and Circadian Neurobiology.
“That changing to a healthier diet can acutely improve alertness and sleep, is extremely important and certainly an interaction to now test in humans.”
Allan I. Pack, also from Penn, is a co-author on the study.
The work was funded by the T32 Sleep Training Grant (HL07953) and Research Program Project Grant (P01-AG017628).
Penn Medicine is one of the world’s leading academic medical centers, dedicated to the related missions of medical education, biomedical research, and excellence in patient care. Penn Medicine consists of the Raymond and Ruth Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania (founded in 1765 as the nation’s first medical school) and the University of Pennsylvania Health System, which together form a $5.3 billion enterprise.
The Perelman School of Medicine has been ranked among the top five medical schools in the United States for the past 17 years, according to U.S. News & World Report’s survey of research-oriented medical schools. The School is consistently among the nation’s top recipients of funding from the National Institutes of Health, with $409 million awarded in the 2014 fiscal year.
The University of Pennsylvania Health System’s patient care facilities include: The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania—recognized as one of the nation’s top “Honor Roll” hospitals by U.S. News & World Report; Penn Presbyterian Medical Center; Chester County Hospital; Penn Wissahickon Hospice; and Pennsylvania Hospital—the nation’s first hospital, founded in 1751. Additional affiliated inpatient care facilities and services throughout the Philadelphia region include Chestnut Hill Hospital and Good Shepherd Penn Partners, a partnership between Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network and Penn Medicine.
Penn Medicine is committed to improving lives and health through a variety of community-based programs and activities. In fiscal year 2014, Penn Medicine provided $771 million to benefit our community.


text:
The day is still fresh in my memory. This same day, one year back. The day that changed all the days to follow, till life abandons my physical being.
The year before was a calamity, I cannot find another word to describe it. The fights, the allegations and the spiteful environment was bound to suck the life off anybody. There was not a single person in the family who was untouched by it all. Kavi’s death, no, not death. I must begin to accept that it was indeed suicide no matter how many times I told myself that it wasn’t. Him committing suicide was not something any of us even thought about in our worst nightmare. We could not see why he took the step he did. My younger brother…you have not even met him… you would have loved him so much kiddo. He would have pampered you and gone to the ends of the world to make sure all your wishes were fulfilled. But alas, there is nothing you or I can do about it.
Amma and achan had me, but for many years they wished for a sibling for me. Even though I was too young to understand it, I could see the yearning in their eyes as if there was some piece missing in their life. One June, God answered their prayers. A new member was added to the family on the poornima night. The celebration that filled our home when we brought amma and him from the hospital is something no words can ever do justice to. Some one or the other would keep coming home to visit the newborn baby, their arms laden with gifts for him. Tiny shoes and soft cotton white dresses; blankets, tiny pillows shaped like U and generous quantities of Johnson & Johnson baby products.
He grew up too soon and we were proud of the fine young man he was turning into. Always a topper in his class, he loved singing as much as he was crazy about football. Once he entered his teenage, he would keep checking in the mirror if finally his moustache had begun to grow. It was too funny to see the same scene repeated day after day. We never got to see him with a proper moustache, you know? Time played the trick on us and he was gone before we realized.
The time after that was the darkest period of our lives. You were not even born at that time. We kept breathing because we had to. Achan stopped going for his morning walk, amma was bedridden for months together. We have never made paalada ever since your uncle left us.
During the last rainy season, Priya came to see me. She told me all about you, and in that very instant I knew, I knew that you were the missing peice of my life. You are the cure to this disease afflicting my family and that you are the answer to all my prayers. The days till August 5th, 2015 flew by quickly. All the legal formalities were over and we brought you home.
Slowly but steadily, you worked your magic on everyone at home. Now, more than being my achan and amma, they are your appooppan and ammoomma. My heart melts when I see them playing with you, dressing you up in white cottons and those tiny shoes that made squeaky noises when you put your foot down. It is because you hold his callused hand with your tiny little fingers that achan goes for evening walks. It is because you love it, that amma has finally started preparing all the delicacies that your uncle loved too. You may not know this now, but someday you will realize that you are the Sun of their universe.
Happy Birthday my darling.
I am blessed to have you in my life.
Tiny shoes is the prompt for the day 5 for BarAThon. Do read what the other bloggers have to say about Tiny Shoes here.


text:
— Tina Hayes, Studying to be a Healer
Carli’s retreat was life changing. Her raw honesty and commitment to our healing was so very apparent. I believe The Spinal Flow Technique can change anyone’s life.
I am pain free and sleep quite well for the first time in years. I am able to relax more often and feel seldom have anxiety and bouts of depression.

domain: medical


text:
On Sunday Chinese seismological center has registered a 6.3 magnitude earthquake in North Korea that was a "suspected explosion", China's Earthquake Administration said. In a statement on its website the administration said that the tremor occured at a depth of zero kilometres.
Yonhap news agency noted that South Korea was going to hold National security council following signs of Pyongyang's nuclear test.
The Japanese government is almost sure that North Korea carried out the sixth nuclear test, local media reported, citing a diplomatic source. According to the NHK broadcaster, the Japanese government convened the National Security Council meeting from 1:34 p.m. local time (04:34 GMT) at Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's office.
"There are almost no doubts that it was a nuclear test," the source told Kyodo news agency.
According to the NHK broadcaster, the Japanese government convened the National Security Council meeting from 1:34 p.m. local time (04:34 GMT) at Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's office.
A 6.3-magnitude "possible explosion" has been detected 22 kilometers (13.6 miles) east northeast of Sungjibaegam locality in North Korea, the data of the US Geological Survey (USGS) showed Sunday.
"Possible explosion, located near the site where North Korea has detonated nuclear explosions in the past. If this event was an explosion, the USGS National Earthquake Information Center cannot determine its type, whether nuclear or any other possible type," a statement on the USGS website read.
According to the USGS, the explosion occurred at a depth of 0.0 kilometers.
Later in the day the second earthquake on scale of 4.6 was registered around North Korean test site, according to China Xinhua News.

domain: geography


text:
A ride in a horse-drawn carriage at the turn? Only on this tiny island in Northern Michigan
Resort golf is full of unique places and experiences: great food, stunning views and quality courses are the reasons we pack our bags. But ferries, fudge shops and rides in horse-drawn carriage rides? Yeah, we thought you’d be interested.
You start by taking a 20-minute ferry ride from Michigan’s mainland to the island, where the only things on four wheels are horse-drawn carriages and golf carts. You’ll get very familiar with both, as the horse-drawn carriage will be your transportation to The Jewel’s two distinctly different nine-hole courses. Up at the hotel, you’ll be greeted by the longest front porch (literally) in the world. It’s over 660-feet long, was built in 1887 (the same year the resort opened) and is the perfect spot to take in a fresh breeze or view of the Great Lakes.
On the Grand Nine, the scorecard’s modest length (2,400 yards from the tips) might have golfers licking their chops. But in reality, the Golden Age design is protected by narrow fairways and challenging pin placements. But you’ll definitely want to play it a second time.
Enjoy the views of Lake Huron from an elevated tee box on the long par-3 7th hole, then test your nerves on the 9th when you play your final approach into a green that’s next to a bustling crowd of Grand Hotel visitors.
Then comes the most unique part: a 15-minute carriage ride that transports golfers to a different end of Mackinac Island — away from the busy downtown — to the aptly named Woods Nine. This side is longer, wider and more reminiscent of what you’d expect to find at a resort course. On this part of the island, you’ll catch glimpses of Lake Michigan.
“You get to see the front nine, which is a Golden Age-style golf course, very short, very scenic,” said Grant DeMoss, the hotel’s director of golf. “And then you go to the back nine and you get the woodlands and that carriage ride. I mean, where else can you see that?”
Plus, from a key battle in the War of 1812 to the filming location of “Somewhere in Time,” the island’s history is always on display. The hotel’s decor, much like the entire experience, is anything but minimalist. There are some rules, too, but we were happy to abide by them, like that formal wear is mandated after 6 p.m. in the parlor and main dining rooms. But this place is a throwback, perfect for those seeking something historic and charming and with scale. From yellow-striped wallpaper to old wooden libraries, every room in the hotel feels like stepping into a time machine.
“We don’t tie ourselves to any one era,” said David Jurcak, the Grand Hotel’s president of operations. “You’ll go to some historic hotels that love this period of time they like to talk about, but we want to celebrate the 136 years we’ve been here.”
Breweries (our favorite was Great Turtle), boutiques and fudge shops line Mackinac Island’s main strip, just a 10-minute walk from the Grand Hotel. The fudge is a big deal here — there’s a handful of different local companies each with a couple of shops in the span of a few hundred yards. (We enjoyed some on site and even shipped some directly to family members from the store.)
Mackinac Island is a perfect spot for families, and a large percentage of their guests are Midwesterners who’ve been coming for years, across generations. But a certain 20-something couple from the East Coast — that’s us! — certainly had a blast too.
“I spent every summer here growing up; I love this place,” said DeMoss, the director of golf. “It’s unlike any other place you can be.”


text:
Art therapy is a technique rooted in the idea that creative expression can foster healing and mental well-being. It helps people explore emotions, develop self-awareness, cope with stress, boost self-esteem, and work on social skills. Art therapy is not only known to reduce stress but also fosters positivity in people's lives.
Here is a Art Care Pack filled with fun art supplies to get your creative juices flowing as well as to take care of your mental and emotional health.
Each Art Care pack will be filled with a few items like a Coloring Book, Sketchbook, Markers, Drawing Pens, Crayons, Colored Pencils, Graphite Pencils, Stickers, Erasers, etc. based on the product availability and the pack you choose. Choose between various options for Adult or Kids Art Care Packs.
* Please not the items included might be different from the ones in the picture depending on what we have in stock. You can request items from our shop and we will try our best to include those in the Art Care Pack if in stock.
These gift packs are available for shipping within in the U.S, pick up at our Goshen retail shop and it you're local in the Elkhart county, you can select in-store pick up at check out.


text:
The only keygen which actually work. How To Fix\ Bypass GTA V Rockstar Social Club ACTIVATION Cracked% WORKING) : : : : Download the 3dm Crack from here. GTA 5 Serial Key Cd Key Activation Code Download From Bellow Link: http: / / tinyurl. You can create an account through account.
But there' s a problem you need around 67. So doesn' t really run it well, but has. Grand Theft Auto V GTA 5 for Download - NOTE: The game will be activated on Rockstar Social Club.Sony Interactive Entertainment LLC. Yatharth on GTA 4 Keygen Works great. Both, it has to do with the server thinking that you' re a different account trying to activate a code already taken. Purplegill10GTA: O Purplegill10 when it comes out[ S] 3 points4 points5 points 3 years ago ( 1 child).
To download activate Grand Theft Auto V follow these steps. Buy Grand Theft Auto V ( GTA 5) game key in best price it will take full advantage of the power of Personal computer with across- the- board graphical and techie improvements to deliver a. Click “ USE ROCKSTAR CODE” and enter your unique Rockstar Activation Code when prompted.I' m looking for some advice on what to do with my GTA 5/ SC account. Codes for Grand Theft Auto V for Xbox 360.
Dual Targeting of Oncogenic Activation and Inflammatory Signaling Increases Therapeutic Efficacy in Myeloproliferative Neoplasms. GTA Vice City free d. About This Game PLEASE NOTE: Microsoft no longer supports creating Games for Windows- LIVE accounts within Grand Theft Auto IV.
Try to search for crack with your version of GTA 5. Com/ GTA- 5- KeyGen- Download Download GTA 5 get Grand Theft Auto V Serial Key, Cd Key Activation Code Generator.
GTA Vice City Free Download Full Pc Game is one of the world' s best action adventure game. Activate your Xbox One Game Code on your XBox Live account to download Grand Theft Auto 5.The game with a code without actually buying the game. Com/ GTA5serialkeycdkeyactivationcodedownload/ http: / / gta5keysonline. If you don' t have an account, you will need to create one. Loj on Simcity 5 Keygen. Com and then log into your account in game. This mode is a remake of gta5- mods. The Grand Theft Auto V: Premium Online Edition - available for PS4 PC - includes the complete Grand Theft Auto V story experience, Xbox One , the ever evolving world of Grand Theft Auto Online all e. Click the Activate Grand Theft Auto on PC button at the bottom left corner of the page.
Buy GTA 5 CD KEY Compare Prices. Gta 5 activation code; gta 5 activation key; Gta 5 cd key;.
Download the latest GTA 5 Activation Key Free Full For PS4 Xbox 360, PS3, Xbox One for Windows. Together with the update 11 new vehicles, new clothes two new racing modes will be added to the game. Question: When I try to redeem my GTAV PC Activation Code I get an error message saying that it' s invalid or already used.
GTA 5 Activation Code. The site will ask you to confirm. Apr 19, · Grand Theft Auto V/ GTA 5 ACTIVATION REQUIRED PROBLEM FIX - How to play GTA V after 20th APRIL. The fictional world of grand theft auto 5 is mainly greater than the earlier version of this game, a map is bigger & several novel activation code items have been added.
Com/ / 05/ gta- 5- serial- key- cd- key- activation- code. It is also very famous all over the world. 5GB of internet to download the game so either buy the game search for a free WiFi zone. 1 Pro Activation Key Upgrade Product Key is world best Operating system.
Heists giving players the chance to team up to pull off a string of intense multi- part heists, raids robberies. Activation code for gta 5.
1 Pro Activation Key Upgrade Product Key is very eff. This tool enables you to activate GTA V and play the game for free! My brother recently bought the GTA 5 retail version on disc thinking that his computer would be able to run it without any problems. Save money and find the best deal.
Full Version Grand theft Auto GTA V free download full latest version Crack Serial Key. Find great deals on eBay for gta 5 activation code. You will need to sign in with a valid Social Club Account to activate your Rockstar Code or download a PC game client.
To activate any cheat codes for GTA 5 on Xbox 360 you should enter code during the game as codes for GTA 4 , meaning you don' t have to enter through the telephone this is good news! Activation code for gta 5.The GTA 5 activation cd key code is activated on Rockstar Social Club. Activation code for gta 5. In addition to increased draw distances higher resolution, players can expect a range of additions improvements. Basically it' s saying that this account has already activated it but the launcher requires a key to. Activate the CD KEY on your Steam client to download GTA 5. Now that we have finally finished the Grand Theft Auto 5 Keygen we are proudly releasing it to the public! GTA 5 Download Free PC Game setup in single direct link for windows.
Download Grand Theft Auto 4 ( GTA IV) Game For PC Full Version. 1 which includes the update « Southern San Andreas Super Sport Series» for GTA 5 Online. I need an activation code for GTA 5 but I don' t know how to get one < >.
Today we will be releasing the new GTA 5 Keygen!

domain: game


This is a year a lot of us could use more comedy living in the D.C. area. If you agree, we have just the thing to make your week: 10 pairs of tickets to see up-and-coming comic Lucas Bohn’s one-man show “Lesson Plans to Late Night” at 7PM this Thursday night at Drafthouse Comedy. The venue is located at 1100 13th St NW, Washington, DC 20005.
“Lesson Plans to Late Night” tells the hilarious story of Bohn’s journey from elementary-school teacher to stand-up comic. It combines live stand up comedy and visual images. The show has been compared to “Defending the Caveman” and was called “a comedic multimedia masterpiece” and “hysterical” by Parade magazine. If you’ve ever worked with or have children or grandkids, you don’t want to miss Bohn’s show.
Here’s a clip from the show:
More about Lucas Bohn: Lucas Bohn is energetic with an edge. The perfect blend of schoolboy charm and bad-boy charisma, his comedy is both smart and audacious. Known as the little guy who generates big laughs, Lucas has shared the stage with Dave Chappelle, Jimmy Fallon, and Kevin Hart. Lucas’ high-energy shows and hilarious impersonations make him an instant hit with audiences of all ages. In 2013 Lucas was nominated “Comedian of the Year” by Campus Activities Magazine. Lucas placed runner-up in the Magners Comedy Festival and was awarded Best of the Fest at the Detroit Comedy Festival. In addition to performing on stage, Lucas does voice-overs and has been featured on PBS, CBS, and Coastal Today. Follow Lucas on Twitter or Facebook.
To win a pair of tickets, just leave a comment saying why you could use a night of comedy.


A new chapter has begun in the history of Tanzania's Kihansi spray toad, listed as extinct in the wild since 2009. The toads, which were part of a 12-year international recovery effort conducted by WCS and partners, moved back into their native home in the Kihansi Gorge late last year.
The toads' plight began when construction of a dam – a much-needed source of electricity for Tanzania – dramatically changed their microhabitat in the waterfalls of the gorge. An extensive propagation program at the Bronx Zoo and Toledo Zoo, the management of an artificial misting system in the gorge by the Tanzanian government, and other collaborative efforts have gradually brought the tiny amphibians back from the brink. Learn more about the reintroduction effort in a new video.
Great News! Thank you Dianne for sharing such a wonderful bit of news with us.
Happy news indeed my friend. Just btw.. that color you picked doesn't show up very good, so it was hard to read. I tried to lighten it but couldn't. Thank you very much for contributing.
Dianne for the eye test.
Ya,that black on black has an astigmatism sufferer like me extremely challanged.
Interesting looking however.
This post was modified from its original form on 25 Jan, 20:31
aye, great news that dianne, thanks fur posting. Makes ye feel a whole lot better aboot the world eh!
I bet it was a wonderful homecoming for the frogs as well as the citizen of country.


text:
Phylogeny and classification of the bamboos (Poaceae: Bambusoideae) based on molecular and morphological data
Jonathan F. Wendel
Chloroplast ndhF gene sequences and morphological and leaf anatomical characters were analyzed separately and as combined data sets to reconstruct the phylogeny of subfamily Bambusoideae. The analyses further confirmed that the monophyletic bambusoid clade consists of only two monophyletic lineages: the woody bamboos, and the herbaceous olyroid bamboos. Buergersiochloa was resolved as the basal lineage in the herbaceous olyroids, whereas Pariana/Eremitis was sister to the rest of the olyroids. The woody bamboos were divided into two main groups: temperate woody bamboos and tropical woody bamboos; and the tropical clade was further subdivided along geographic lines into the Old World woody bamboos and the New World woody bamboos. Puelia was resolved as the most basal lineage of the 'higher grasses' and thus was excluded from the bambusoid clade. Streptogyneae joined the oryzoids, including the Oryzeae and Ehrharteae, to form another separate monophyletic clade. The results of this study indicate that the current Bambusoideae is not acceptable phylogenetically. Therefore a new circumscription of the Bambusoideae with two tribes is proposed in which only members of the bambusoid clade are included; the woody bamboos are classifed as one tribe, the Bambuseae, and the herbaceous olyroid bamboos are classified in another tribe, the Olyreae;In order to provide additional resolution of phylogenetic relationships within the bambusoid clade, an attempt to generate nuclear ribosomal ITS sequence data of bamboos was made. However, polymerase chain reaction amplification (PCR) led to the recovery of fungal instead of bamboo sequences. Phylogenetic analyses based on the 5.8S sequences indicated that all the sequences belonged to basidiomycetes and that none was an ascomycete. A diverse assemblage of basidiomycetes was isolated from different bamboo hosts and various fungi coexisted in the same host plant. No evidence showed that closely related fungi were associated with closely related bamboo hosts. True bamboo ITS sequences were obtained only after leaf surface sterilization before DNA isolation. This study highlights the possibility of inadvertent PCR amplification of "contaminating DNA" in molecular phylogenetic studies. The results also indicate that a close ecological association between epiphytic basidiomycetes and bamboo leaves may exist, but further study is needed.

domain: biology


With cutting-edged and innovative dynamic DR technology and unique dual detector design, the intelligent DR system offer both static and dynamic capture. Equipped with ANGELL patented technologies,Aurora is capable for high quality static and dynamic clinical imaging, providing with detailed two-dimensional anatomical image and soft organ functional image, which secures accurate diagnosis.
Static And Dynamic Quick, Accurate And Convenient
With static and dynamic dual flat panel detector, Aurora is capable for quick capture mode and position(Erect/Supine/Prone/Decubitus) switch, which significantly improve clinical efficiency.
New work flow
10.4 Inch Intelligent Touch Screen
By 10.4 inch HD intelligent touch screen, doctors and radiologists get access to control machine parameters such as radiation dosage:exposure parameter, GRID and etc as well as patient's information, in real-time.
Emergency Use And Physical Examination Record Artificial-intelligence-controlled collimator system will automatically match detector location and irradiate certain area according to the patient's position and SID information, saving adjustment time.
Automatic Exposure Control (AEC) Automatic Exposure Control function improves the image quality as well as reduces radiation dose
Intelligent Dose Manage Display
Intelligent dose data display can meet the quality control requirements of clinical radiographs.
Surround Light Belt Design On Bucky Stand
Intelligent lighting reminder design promptsthe device status in real-time.


text:
Friday, March 25, 2016
March 2016 Papertrey Ink Blog Hop
Papetrey Ink's March 2016 Blog Hop. I stitched "hello" using Papertrey Ink's Quick Stitch Sentiments hello die in Rustic Cream Twine (more visible in person, especially because of the texture). The pattern is stamped with lots of flowers from Peonies On Parade, then colored with Distress Markers (Spun Sugar, Tattered Rose and Squeezed Lemonade) then masked and stamped with the lace stamp from Waltzingmouse Stamps Faux Fun with Ranger Coffee Archival Ink, then the background was painted with Stormy Seas ink smooshed on nonstick craft mat applied with an aqua brush.

domain: design


php export template is a php export sample that shows the process of designing php export example. A well designed php export template can help people to design php export document.
php export basics
When designing php export, it is essential to consider php export layout. php export layout defines the overall appearance of php export, in the php export layout, you need to define general settings such as php export word, php export excel, php export font style, php export page margin, php export background color, php export background images, php export fills, effects and block style. Also, it is important to consider the different variations of your sample template, for example, perl export excel, perl export excel word, php mysql export excel, php mysql export excel word, php export excel format, php export excel format word, php export excel file, php export excel file word.
Many professional design tools such as Adobe Illustrator, InDesign or Photoshop can help produce php export template with professional style and effects, however, it is important to convert your php export design to an editable word template as most users do not know how to use advanced graphics-editing programs such as Photoshop or Illustrator. You can export the original php export design as png file, make sure that php export png design format is 300ppi or higher as Microsoft Word compresses all images that you place into it. After the png file is saved, you may create a Microsoft word php export document and insert the png file into Micrsoft word document to save the layout, design and effects. You need also consider the different applications.
php export template design
There is free php export template you may download. there are different types of php export template. During the process of design php export template, it is important to consider your php export template applications in various areas.
The first key section in the php export template is the introduction part. In the section, you need to give information on php export objectives and goals. You may also give information on php export layout, php export general requirements.
The second key section in the php export template is the main body. In the section, you may give information on export excel, exporting php, php export, excel, export, exporting.
The last key part in the php export template is the supplementary part. In the section, you may provide additional information on php export layout, php export outline, php export format, export excel, export excel word, exporting php, exporting php word, php export, php export word.


text:
Bigger fruit, bigger profit
With more insights into how fruit grows, researchers are hoping to learn how to genetically manipulate fruit size.
Fruit size has a great impact on the value of the crop, and researchers are working to understand what influences the size of apples in order to help growers maximize returns.
“If we can increase the size of every apple in your orchard by 20 percent, you have doubled your money,” Dr. Peter Hirst, horticulturist at Purdue University, Indiana, told growers at the Washington State Horticultural Association’s annual meeting. “There’s a pretty strong incentive to focus on fruit size.”
Fruit size is governed by three components: the number of cells, the size of cells, and the space between the cells. There is more air inside a larger apple than a small one, Hirst said. Since apples are sold by weight, cell size and number are more important than the space between them.
Fruit size is affected by the fruit’s genetic makeup (the cultivar), cultural practices in the orchard, and the environment. All those factors need to be optimized to produce larger fruit.Genetic traits have a very strong influence, Hirst said. For example, a crab apple will always be small, even with optimum pollination, fertilization, pruning, and light.
Cultural factors include pruning and thinning (the most important ones), but also tree training, nutrition, cropping history, soil management, and pollination. Environmental factors include soil, temperature, light, and moisture.
To study the processes that control fruit size, Hirst used the crab apple Hopa along with Pixie Crunch, Gala, Empire, and Golden Delicious. Typically, a crab apple weighs about 8 grams, and a Golden Delicious more than 200 grams. The other varieties are in between at around 120 to 130 grams.
Hirst discovered that the size of the fruit cells has a much smaller influence on final fruit size than the number of cells. Most varieties had a similar cell size. The crab apple had cells 128 microns in diameter, and the rest were around 150 microns in diameter. There was a much greater difference in the number of cells in the fruit. Golden Delicious had between 100 and 110 cell layers in the outer flesh, while the crab apples had only 30. The other varieties had between 75 and 90 layers.
The number of cells increases rapidly during the first four weeks of growth, and then the growth rate levels off, Hirst found. To compare the growth rates, he calculated what proportion of the cells were actively dividing at any one time.
Golden Delicious has a high rate of cell production for a fairly long period of time, whereas Gala cells divide at a lower rate for about the same period of time, resulting in a smaller apple. Pixie Crunch has a high rate of cell division for a shorter period of time, which also results in small fruit size.
These findings refute two commonly held beliefs regarding fruit growth, Hirst said. One is that cell division lasts for about 30 days and then stops. His team’s data show a slow and gradual decline in the proportion of cells that are actively dividing. The other is that fruit grows first by cell division and then by cell expansion with no overlap. Hirst’s data show a considerable overlap in cell division and expansion. Cells start to enlarge about 14 days after bloom, but the number of cells keeps increasing until at least 25 days after full bloom.
When Hirst compared Gala and Red Delicious apples, he found that the growth rates were the same. Red Delicious apples were larger at harvest because it was a later-maturing variety, and they were on the tree longer. So, harvest date can also be a determinant of fruit size.
Hirst studied the effect of temperature on fruit growth during the first 40 days after fruit set. To do this, he enclosed trees in poly houses at petal fall which raised the temperature inside the houses by 5° to 10°F.
He found that trees with a low crop load that were exposed to higher temperatures had the largest fruit, while the smallest fruit came from heavily cropped trees exposed to lower temperatures. Small differences in temperatures early in the season translated to big differences in fruit size at harvest. He deduced that the higher temperature affected fruit size by increasing the size of cells, not the number. Large and small fruit had the same number of cells.
The number of cell-division cycles is controlled genetically, but higher temperatures speed them up, he said. When it’s warm, the cell-division phase is completed sooner, leaving more time for cell expansion to take place.
Hirst said this phenomenon is different in apples than in stone fruits. In stone fruits, fruit size at harvest is usually smaller when temperatures are high after bloom.
Asked whether fruit size is influenced by seed count, Hirst said there is a weak relationship, but he is not sure if the seed number affects the cell number or cell size.
Hirst said now that more is known about what influences fruit size, he and his colleagues are working to identify the genes involved. It won’t be just one gene, as fruit size is influenced by more than one factor.
“Now we have made some headway in understanding how these changes in fruit size are played out in terms of cell dynamics, we’re in good shape to understand all the genetic influences and figure out how to manipulate them to get larger fruit size in your orchard,” he said.

domain: agronomy


text:
Sökning: "Wood Technology"
Visar resultat 1 - 5 av 794 avhandlingar innehållade orden Wood Technology.
Sammanfattning : This thesis deals with wood fingerprints and presents ways to track sawn wood products through an industrial process using cameras. The possibility to identify individual wood products comes from the biological variation of the trees, where the genetic code, environment and breakdown process creates a unique appearance for every board. LÄS MER
Sammanfattning : The wood products industry is important to Sweden's prosperity, and is currently facing several challenges by increased global competition. To avoid the gradual decline of the industry’s contribution to the country’s revenues and employment opportunities, the Swedish wood products industry needs to increase the proportion of the raw material that is refined. LÄS MER
3. Moisture-induced stress and distortion of wood : A numerical and experimental study of wood's drying and long-term behaviour
Sammanfattning : With the current advances made in three-dimensional modelling of wood, it is possible to provide an overall picture of moisture flow, and moisture-induced stress and deformations, whereas previously, experiments only provided local measurements. The main aim of the doctoral thesis is to investigate the possibilities of the developed three-dimensional numerical model to predict the behaviour of wood when simultaneously exposed to a mechanical load and a particular climate. LÄS MER
Sammanfattning : Hemicelluloses are a group of heterogeneous polysaccharides representing around 30 % of wood where the dominating types are xylans, glucomannans and xyloglucans. Hemicelluloses complex molecular structure makes it difficult to understand the relationship between structure and properties entirely, and their biological role is not yet fully verified. LÄS MER
5. Recalcitrance of wood to biochemical conversion : feedstock properties, pretreatment, saccharification, and fermentability
Sammanfattning : Lignocellulose is an inexpensive and abundant renewable resource that can be used to produce advanced biofuels, green chemicals, and other bio-based products. Pretreatment and efficient enzymatic saccharification are essential features of bioconversion of lignocellulosic biomass. LÄS MER

domain: chemistry


text:
Your dogs will love this flavor. Treat your dog without feeling guilty.
The powdered coconut milk used is organic and has amazing anti-inflammatory properties and is also known to help reduce hot spots, flea allergies and dry, itchy skin. The fatty acids in coconut milk also promote a soft, healthy coat.
Ingredients:Lactose-free whey protein, organic coconut milk powder, gelatine from 100% pasture-raised and grass-fed beef, pink Himalayan salt.
How to Use:
Pour the powder into a small blender or bowl.
Add 2/3 cup of room temperature water.
Mix until smooth.
Pour the mixture into the container and replace the lid.
You can also pour the mixture into the silicone mold for individual treats.
Freeze for 5 hours.
Thaw for 10-15 minutes for ice cream in a jar.
Stores in the freezer for up to 5 weeks.
*This product is not a complete meal and should be used for treat purposes only.

domain: food