Click Here to View Price List And Options Currently Available
With their rich clear tone, distinctive beauty and workmanship, Fladmark Autoharps offer the best in sight and sound. Add the great value of a Fladmark autoharp, and you’ve got a quality investment that will return a lifetime of performance and satisfaction.
Each instrument is handmade by Tom Fladmark, an experienced craftsman and long time autoharp player. Tom chooses only instrument quality spruce for the sound board, hard maple for the frame, and select northern hardwoods for the back, bars and trim. The proper selection and use of these special woods help provide the incredible sound, structural integrity and striking elegance for which Fladmark Autoharps are known.
The innovative frame design and hand carved braces provides rugged strength and stability while also allowing maximum vibration of the sound board and back producing volume and rich tone like no other autoharp.
Other features include a comfortable rounded bar-end cover and arm rest. The bars ride on a Delrin plastic comb and spring assembly providing quiet, positive action and the contoured buttons allow control and comfort. Fladmark fine tuners are made of precision machined, anodized aluminum, weighing less than half of other brass fine tuners and are standard on all Fladmark Autoharps. The signature oval sound hole is always decorated with a beautiful abalone or mother-of-pearl inlay.
All Fladmark autoharps are fitted with custom strings made here at Fladmark Woodworks. These are premium quality strings that fit perfectly and sound great. Every tuning is carefully designed to provide optimum sound from bass to treble in every chord. Each string is sized to provide the best performance for the note and position on the autoharp. Not only does this insure the best possible sound from each string, it also provides a smooth transition from string to string and octave to octave, giving you more controlled picking and better dampening.
In addition to the technical advantages of a Fladmark Autoharp, its graceful lines and expert craftsmanship make it a truly beautiful instrument. Tom’s attention to detail goes from frame to finish, making this autoharp not only a joy to play but a joy to behold as well. Fladmark Autoharps are the choice of many professional and award-winning amateur musicians as well as beginners who want an instrument they will never outgrow. A Fladmark Autoharp will be enjoyed for generations and comes with a lifetime warranty.


2018 IDSA/HIVMA Elections—Look for Your Ballot Next Week
Elections for the IDSA and HIVMA Board of Directors are quickly approaching. Next week you will receive an electronic ballot for both the IDSA and HIVMA elections with the subject line "2018 IDSA/HIVMA Elections." The electronic ballot makes it easy for you to vote.
The IDSA section of the ballot will include slots for the vice president and three at-large board seats on the IDSA Board of Directors. The HIVMA section of the ballot includes slots for the vice chair and three board seats.
Biographical sketches and personal statements for each of the candidates will also be enclosed. Voting is an important way for every member to influence the future direction of IDSA and HIVMA. Please exercise your right to vote.


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By Shaun Cumming, Date: 30/6/13
Welcome to another issue of International magazine. It’s hard to believe that in four monthsâ€™ time, Cardiff will host the opening ceremony of the 2013 Rugby League World Cup. 14 Nations will be vying for the silverware, which England’s Jamie Jones-Buchanan is displaying on the front cover.
But before we turn our attention to the October and November tournament, the month of June has been chock full of news surrounding the international game.
The European Shield is in full swing, with Russia almost certain of securing the winner’s tag. In the division below, the European Bowl squads have been announced. Ukraine may head into the tournament as favourites, biut the Czech Republic will be hard to match. For the third team in the competition, Norway is somewhat of a surprise package. We await the results of the Bowl, with the winner progressing to the 2014 European Shield.
All your favourites are back for this June issue if International. Mark takes a look at player off-field behaviour while Shamrock turns his attention to State of Origin, albeit not as you know it. Sam takes a look at Italy’s road to the world cup and takes a peak at rugby league in the USA.
To round it all off, Louise has an intriguing interview with former Irish international Gareth Haggerty
Here’s hoping you enjoy the April issue of International.

domain: news


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- Travel Month:
- December 2015/January 2016
- Travel destination:
- Western Mediterranean
Questions about the Norwegian Epic
- How did you like your cabin no. 10065?
- Your comment about your cabin?
- We didn't like why was orginezed wc and shower in the cabin on Norvegian Epic.
- How did you like the entertainment program?
- Your rating of sports, fitness and wellness on board the Norwegian Epic:
- How do you rate the service in the restaurant, cabin and bars?
- Please give an overall rating of the ship Norwegian Epic
- Would you like to note some short remarks about the Norwegian Epic?
- We didn't like servise and quality of the food in the main restaraunt. We wrote claimes about bad servise in the main restaurant.
Questions about the tour operator Norwegian Cruise Line
- How well was the embarkation organized?
- How do you rate the extra expenses on board (1=very affordable, 5=very high)
- How do you rate the price/performance ratio of the offered shore excursions?
- Would you travel again with Norwegian Cruise Line?
Questions about seascanner.com
- This was the first cruise that I booked over the Internet
- How satisfied were you with the handling of your booking by seascanner.com?
- Would you book again with seascanner.com?
Was this rating useful for you?

domain: travel


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Jason Momoa and Eiza González’s rumored romance is already over
Jason Momoa dating Eiza González after Lisa Bonet breakup: report
Who will Jason Momoa date after Lisa Bonet split?
Magnus Lygdback is the celebrity trainer who makes Hollywood’s superheroes
Jason Momoa’s daughter, Lola, looked just like her mom, Lisa Bonet, while attending a Rolling Stones concert with her dad on Sunday.
The 14-year-old attended the London performance in a ripped denim jacket and a cropped top paired with fishnet leggings and a checkered skirt.
Momoa’s 13-year-old son, Nakoa-Wolf, also enjoyed the Hyde Park event.
Bonet, 54, was not in attendance as she and the 42-year-old actor, announced their split in January after four years of marriage.
The “Game of Thrones” alum posted footage from the show via Instagram on Monday, writing, “LAST NIGHT WAS INSANE.”
The Hawaii native went on to write, “I had to share with everyone. So beyond thankful to all my friends and new friends who made this possible I got to share this moment with my babies. The gods blessed this band.
“I can’t believe they are almost 80,” Momoa continued. “60 years together in hyde park. Mind blown. Enjoy. Gimme shelter.”
He and Bonet welcomed their daughter and son in 2007 and 2008, respectively.
The “Cosby Show” alum , who is also the mother of actress Zoë Kravitz with ex-husband Lenny Kravitz, wed Momoa in October 2017.
The former couple shared their breakup news in a joint statement earlier this year, explaining that they were “free[ing] each other” by calling it quits.
“We are parting ways in marriage,” the exes wrote in January. “We share this not because we think it’s newsworthy but so that as we go about our lives we may do so with dignity and honesty. The love between us carries on, evolving in ways it wishes to be known and lived.”
While Bonet has yet to publicly address their decision, the “Dune” star told Access Hollywood in March that they are “not getting back together.”
“We’re family forever,” Momoa explained at the time. “We have two beautiful children together.”
The “Baywatch” alum reportedly moved on with Eiza González in February, but the rumored couple sparked breakup speculation last month.
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domain: entertainment


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A proofread is the last edit you will need before publishing your book.
This is a final read-through of your manuscript before publishing, focusing on eliminating typographical errors.
A proofread is a mechanical evaluation of your manuscript, ensuring that it is free from errors. It is geared toward fixing
- Syntax (like fixing extra spaces or paragraph breaks)
- Anything that might have been missed in the comprehensive edit
At the end of the comprehensive edit, you will receive a Word document addressing each of the above elements, along with comments (if necessary) suggesting next steps.
Proofreading: $0.005/word USD

domain: literature


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Over the Easter bank holiday weekend, many consumers will have noticed the higher cost of Easter eggs compared to previous years. While the issue of inflation has received a lot of press coverage in recent months, a key ingredient for the Easter sweet treats has surged in price recently; sugar. ICE Sugar No.11 prices, the global benchmark for the commodity, had been trading at 5-year highs from early February and have continued to climb since then.
On 11th April, sugar prices climbed above the peaks of October 2016 and are now trading at the highest level since Spring 2012. This rise in the trading price of sugar has also been reflected on supermarket shelves in the UK. The Grocer reported that by January sugar reached an average price of £1.06/kg in British supermarkets according to the official Retail Price Index, which was already a 10-year high back then. Given the prevalence of sugar, and therefore its role in driving food price inflation for consumers, it is worth examining some of the key reasons behind its recent rise.
A Sugar Mill in Uttar Pradesh, India
Pressure on Sugar Supply
A key driver of recent bullish price movements for sugar has been cuts to production forecasts announced across various growing regions around the world. This has particularly been an issue in India, the world’s second-biggest exporter of sugar, where mills have had to close early due to a lack of available sugar cane. As noted by Reuters, 155 of 210 sugar mills in Maharashtra had closed production for the season by the end of March. The region produces over a third of India’s sugar and in the 2021/22 season there were mills operating until June, whereas almost all are expected to be closed by the end of April this year.
India’s reduced sugar production and its subsequent impact on global prices has been compounded by the reduction in planned exports of the commodity. The government has only allowed Indian mills to export 6.1 million tonnes of sugar this season, in comparison to 11 million tonnes in the previous year. Due to the high prices and short supply of sugar in India, it is also unlikely that this figure will be revised upwards. The combination of a smaller crop and reduced exports from a key player in the international sugar market has been a key factor in recent price rallies.
It is also important to note that supply side issues are not confined to India. In Brazil, the world-leader for sugar production and exports, heavy rain forecasts for April may delay harvesting the current crop and further pressure supply. Meanwhile in Europe, where over 50% of global sugar beet is grown, the European Association of Sugar Manufacturers announced in late 2022 that the 2022/23 sugar output from the EU would fall -7% y/y to 15.5 MMT, as reported by Barchart. Unusually warm weather across Europe over the past year has damaged the sugar beet crop through heatwaves and drought.
Market Forces Making an Impact
There are several factors relating to the sugar market, and less connected to the physical supply and demand, that have contributed to the recent rise in sugar prices. One market force that has caused further supply pressure in sugar has been the rally in crude oil markets following OPEC+’s announcement of a production cut at the start of April. When oil prices increase, sugar prices tend to subsequently rise as more sugar crops are diverted from mills to produce ethanol rather than refined sugar. This relationship between sugar and oil prices has been discussed in detail in this ChAI blog post, and is especially relevant in the two leading nations for sugar production; Brazil and India. This oil-sugar relationship has played a key role in boosting prices for the latter commodity in recent weeks.
Another market force that has supported prices is the lack of deliverable sugar ahead of the May contract expiry on Friday 14th April for ICE White Sugar Futures. As reported by Bloomberg, “large open interest signals that some traders without physical supplies may need to close out short positions, supporting prices.” While a different benchmark to the Sugar No.11 contract, this indicates the overall tightness in the global sugar market, as well as demonstrating the importance of tracking exchange data when formulating a market outlook.
Looking ahead, a key piece of bullish data that is driving ChAI’s forecast is Commitment of Traders reports. As shown by the graph below, the number of long positions has doubled since August 2022 while short positions have almost halved. In the coming weeks, attention will turn to the harvest from Brazil, and the country’s ability to export it efficiently, as a key driver for calming prices from their decade-high peaks.


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I am going to give your tips a try to see if I can get her to open her mind up to more veggies! Thank you, so many alternatives and they all sound delicious. Thank you so much. I mean, let's be honest, I probably like steamed vegetables … It’s quite lovely to be here, guest posting on Mostly Eating. Bring the water to the boil. Boiled Vegetables vs. Don’t have a zester or microplane on hand? 7. This steamed vegetables recipe with garlic and oil sauce makes it easy to eat healthy because it’s so good! This is a great article! That is how I remember it too, and it is kind of strange when you think about it. Steamed vegetables go wonderfully with any meat, can be served with a cheese or herb sauce, or even just as they are. Steaming is a quick and simple way to prepare your vegetables. Don’t like them? Add a Twist of Citrus. Transfer all your steamed vegetables onto a serving platter. I’m so happy to hear that you are exploring ways to introduce healthy foods to your kids. Your vegetables are now ready to serve. I think a lot of people understand that eating more vegetables is good for the health, but the stereotypical view of eating steamed vegetables is just so bland and boring that a lot of people are understandably put off from it. Eat raw or plain steamed vegetables is more healthy, but not if you only do it twice before abandoning the new diet. Copyright Mostly Eating. Boiled vegetables can be bland and soggy. I look forward to your comments. People eat fermented vegetables in salads, sandwiches, or as a side dish. Learn how your comment data is processed. Crush a clove of garlic, mix with a tablespoon of tahini and then whisk in enough water to make it a drizzling consistency. Season them to taste with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and add a splash of lemon juice for some extra zip. Vegetables are a healthy and inexpensive side dish to any meal. Love your idea of how at once we can pamper our taste buds and take care of our health too. Enjoy your experimentation as I am sure that it will yield delicious results. I made a mushroom and chicken sauce with cream over the top of vegies ..was delicious with little chicken stock. Give different varieties of lemons, limes, or oranges a try. I’ve gotta say, I’m nutty about nuts. But have a big trip to the Farmers market planned for this Sunday so will make sure I have at least one massive serve of veg each day.5. It’s such a versatile means for cooking. Peel the carrots and quarter lengthwise. My favourite is chard since I have learned that it doesn’t have the negative effect on the thyroid that kale and spinach do. “We should be eating a lot of raw foods each day, but to think that a diet that is 100% raw is better than one that has some steamed vegetables or soup in it is just a distortion of the science; it’s not accurate,” says Dr. Joel Fuhrman. Add a little bit of fresh citrus juice on top of freshly steamed vegetables to give them a uniquely tasty flavor. If you like a bit of spice, you might try adding a dried chili, just don’t eat it or you’ll get one really hot bite. I hope these tips have given you the inspiration to create your own tantalizing twists on many new dishes. Most … There are plenty of ways out there. A new steamer, good for you. Add a Twist of Citrus. Cook this in some olive oil in a frying pan, until golden brown. If your dog refuses to eat steamed veggies, try pureeing them in a blender before serving. You might consider chilling slightly steamed greens, like snap peas and serving them with a little dip. There is no harm in adding some little extras to add crunch,texture, spice or freshness to your steamed vegetables to make them a more enjoyable part of your meal. What I do is throw some rice noodles in a skillet (I don’t have a wok yet) and pan fry them. Great new ideas, This has really inspired to give my sad veggies a real make over. Sulforaphane is also present in other cruciferous vegetables, such as cauliflower, cabbage, and kale. Mix your choice of minced fresh herbs or other flavorful ingredients into softened butter. 3. FOODAL® IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF ASK THE EXPERTS LLC. Thank you, I think I love you. Salad dressings work really well on steamed vegetables. Anyway, the vibrant colors of the steamed veggies in the picture just makes me want to forget that I’m on a fast today! Thanks for the post “Bored with Steamed Vegetables? Adding spices and nuts sounds like a great idea though, I will try that. Although, since I showed no mercy, ha ha with my own culinary experimentation, my kids developed an extremely wide palette. Let it suffice to say that, for the larger part of my childhood, I believed all vegetables resembled onion flavored, dull colored mush. Let pan get smoking hot again, add third teaspoon of oil and place chopped white part of scallion. Today, I love steaming vegetables – it’s a great way to keep their bite, color, taste, and fresh integrity intact. Chili lime powder, red pepper flakes, or Sriracha sauce sprinkled on or folded into a dish is sure to add a little pep to your step (and tingle to your tongue)! Stomach bloating: Cut down on these six vegetables in your diet to beat the bloat A BLOATED stomach can often be caused by the food you eat, … While some might say that this is a great way to turn a vitamin-packed dish into something less healthy, the truth is, a touch of fat eaten alongside fresh produce actually helps us to absorb the fat soluble nutrients. If you’re in the market for one, check out Foodal’s guide to the best items on the market. For tender, delicious, hearty protein, we created this bariatric chicken recipe. I am working on getting through one extra hour each day before giving in. 6. Have a good time with your experimentation as I am certain you will discover delectable results. They then always poured out the water it came packed in and put new water in, salt and pepper and cooked it for way too long. I love adding fats, herbs and spices to these veggies. The goal of steamed vegetables is to cook the vegetables with a gentle heat until they are no longer raw, but still bright in color with a crisp texture. This leafy green tops the chart as one of the healthiest vegetables, thanks to its impressive nutrient profile. No need to push one type, just try jazzing up your favorites. Now, let’s explore how to perk up those flavors, to make each dish new and exciting. I also grew up with canned vegetables and overcooked mush. Bacon just adds so much flavor. Including plenty of fiber rich vegetables in your diet helps to increase your overall daily intake. Toast them in a dry pan for just a couple of minutes, to begin to release the flavorful oils. LOL3. 100 percent vegetable juice. Your vegetables are now ready to serve. Add a tiny bit of unsalted butter (about a 1/2 a teaspoon) and seasonings (Ms. It never really crossed my mind, but after hearing it somewhere and trying it once, I do it with everything now. I Tried All The Most Popular Pre-Made Chocolate Chip Cookie Doughs (And The Winner Was Clear) 19 French Holiday Recipes You'll Actually Want To Try This Christmas. Vegetables such as asparagus, griddled with a tiny bit of olive oil, can develop intense flavor and be quite healthy.
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domain: food


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From Ohio to Wisconsin to California, state budget battles over extravagant union privileges grabbed headlines and flooded airwaves throughout 2011. This year, however, the fight to restrain public-sector union bosses has shifted to a new venue. Tuesday, the Supreme Court weighs arguments about the limits of union officials’ power to spend compulsory union dues on politics.
In Ohio and Wisconsin, legislation limiting government union officials’ ability to collect forced dues triggered an immediate, Big Labor-instigated backlash. Union bosses know that their political influence - and, by extension, their massive, government-granted special privileges - rest on the power to use workers’ hard-earned dues to elect sympathetic politicians.
In the public sector, this cycle of influence peddling has led to a truly perverse state of affairs: Union politicos funnel workers’ dues to pro-Big Labor politicians, who then use their clout to further entrench unions’ forced-dues privileges. Until government-union bosses are stripped of their ability to extract forced dues from unwilling workers, this corrupt arrangement will continue to saddle taxpayers and local governments with a ruinous financial burden.
In Wisconsin, Gov. Scott Walker took the first step toward ending this vicious cycle by limiting government-union bosses’ forced-dues privileges. In Ohio, Gov. John Kasich’s reform efforts were reversed by a vicious union-backed campaign. But the fight has shifted to the highest court in the land, where the powerful Service Employees International Union (SEIU) faces a class-action challenge to its forced-dues collection racket.
In 2005, SEIU officials in California imposed a “special assessment” on all state civil servants in their bargaining unit - including those who were not union members - to defeat a ballot proposal that would have prevented public-sector unions from using forced dues for political contributions without employee consent. As in Wisconsin and Ohio, union operatives fought tooth and nail to protect their special privileges, but several courageous state employees didn’t take this scheme lying down.
With the help of attorneys from the National Right to Work Foundation, eight civil servants took SEIU bosses to court on the grounds that nonunion workers shouldn’t be billed for union political activism. In 2007, a federal district court ruled that union officials were required to allow employees to opt out of the “special assessment” and refund any dues collected to those who did, but that ruling was reversed later by the often-overruled 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.
State-level reforms in places like Ohio and Wisconsin are an important part of any effort to rein in out-of-control Big Labor bosses, but reaffirming nonunion employees’ First Amendment right not to fund union political activism is equally critical. If the Supreme Court fails to protect civil servants’ paychecks, government union operatives will have access to even more forced-dues cash to fight reforms and expand their special privileges. Meanwhile, taxpayers get stuck footing the bill.
Forcing civil servants to subsidize the political agenda of an organization to which they don’t belong should offend every American, regardless of political sympathies. Voluntary SEIU members may wish to financially support their organization’s political goals, but nonunion employees - many of whom disagree with the union’s agenda - are under no similar obligation. Freedom of association is a bedrock principle of American democracy, and no one should be compelled to support a group to which they don’t belong.
It’s vital that the Supreme Court take a strong stand to protect nonunion civil servants’ paychecks from being docked to fund union political activism. Not only will this help curb the onerous financial obligations Big Labor has exacted from state and local governments, it is critical to protect the freedom of association of public servants everywhere.
Mark Mix is president of the National Right to Work Foundation.

domain: law


The wide and open landscape of Haldorbu conservation area invites you to enjoy the view and let your mind wander. Here the landscape is open with its soft lines, gently sloping hillsides and lazy rivers. Near the conservation area extends Skaget (1665 m) and Northern Langsua (1,553 m) up over this good-natured landscape. You see
well from Storeskag or
You can experience Haldorbu by taking the car or bike into Storeskag. You can choose from several marked paths which also goes further into the national park. There are arches and lodges available for accommodation. Hunting and fishing opportunities are impeccable!


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The film tells the true story of Eric Lomax, who spent time in a Japanese prisoner-of-war camp in 1942 and, many years later, returned to confront his torturer.
In our exclusive clip, the older Lomax meets his wife-to-be, Patricia (played by Nicole Kidman) on the train to Scotland in the 1980s.
Watch it and swoon...
The Railway Man is released nationwide on 10 January. Watch our exclusive clip below and find more great movies in our film reviews.

domain: artistic


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Original News Posted 7/10/10
Sorry its a bit late...
The much-anticipated arrival of Update 3.0 is now upon us and it brings a new set of adventures, called 'Balance of Power', which was specially developed as a feature for the X Superbox. Also featured in the update is a long-awaited reward for completion of Operation Final Fury.
Update 3.0 also features the Dead-is-Dead gameplay mode for X3: Terran Conflict. This is only available to those players who play through the Steam client, but owners of the DVD version are reminded that they can register their DVD version with Steam to be able to enjoy this new feature in addition to Steam Achievements.
It also gives EGOSOFT great pleasure to announce that the X-Superbox, which contains updated versions of all of the X-Universe game titles to date, as well as a content-packed Bonus DVD and a PDF version of the 300-page X-Encyclopedia will be available for download from Steam as well as being available in boxed form from many leading retailers and EGOSOFT's online shop.
Steam customers will also, for the very first time, be able to purchase and download the standalone versions of X: Beyond the Frontier and X: Tension.
Terran Conflict players who bought their game from Steam are reminded that their Steam client will automatically update the game and that there is no need to download the patch from Egosoft.com.
Registered players of the DVD version of the game can, as usual, download the update from the site, using the link below.
There is additional information on X3: Terran Conflict 3.0, as well as other news, in Edition 41 of the X-Universe News.
Click here for the X-Superbox Trailer [HQ]

domain: hobby


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United States Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel received a tour of a China aircraft carrier on Monday, the only one currently in existence in the country. According to the New York Times, it is the first time a foreign defense official has conducted such a visit.
Hagel toured the medical facilities, living quarters and flight control station of the Liaoning aircraft carrier in Qingdao. He also walked along the flight deck while accompanied by aides. As the Times reports, the visit comes amid calls from the United States for greater transparency from the Chinese military.
Hagel is scheduled to hold talks with Chinese defense minister Chang Wanquan on Tuesday, as well as make a speech at China’s National Defense University.
According to the Times, military officials with Hagel said the visit was an important first step in bolstering the military relationship between China and the United States.
“It’s always good to get aboard a ship,” Rear Adm. John F. Kirby, the Pentagon press spokesman, told reporters after the tour. “It feels the same, it smells the same.”


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It´s almost here!
The Spain 10x Genomics User Group Meeting will be on the 23rd of May at Civitas Metropolitano, Madrid. This year, we are happy to announce our first User Group Meeting in Portugal that will be on the 25th on May, at Iberostar Selection Lisbon Hotel .
The User Group Meeting (UGM) is a one-day event intended for those new to single cell and spatial technology as well as seasoned 10x Genomics technology users. This highly informative series of scientific sessions will feature keynote presentations by leading researchers, expert panels, and networking opportunities with peers.
Save the dates & Stay Tuned!

domain: biology


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Paris: France’s parliament on Tuesday adopted a largely symbolic ban on parents smacking their children, a practice which though condemned by the UN still enjoys widespread support in the country.
The measure was unanimously approved in a final vote in the Senate, making France the 55th state to prohibit corporal punishment of children.
It will be written into the Civil Code and read out to couples when they exchange their marital vows, with newly-weds told that “parental authority is exercised without physical or psychological violence”.
The measure, which was adopted by MPs in November, had been expected to easily pass the Senate despite some lawmakers on the right railing against what they see as “interference” in family life.
Violence towards children is already banned under France´s penal code, but a 19th-century addendum to the Civil Code´s definition of parental authority made allowances for parents when “disciplining” their children.
According to France´s Childhood Foundation, 85 percent of French parents admit to smacking their children.
Attempts by previous governments to ban the practice have run afoul of conservatives, but resistance has softened in recent years.


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The Latest: Feds say canceling nuke plant could cost owners
ATLANTA (AP) — The Latest on cost overruns from construction at a nuclear power plant in Georgia (all times local):
The federal government is warning the owners of a troubled nuclear power plant in Georgia that any move to cancel a planned expansion would lead to demands for quick repayment of nearly $6 billion in federal loans.
In a letter to the plant’s three owners, the Department of Energy said late Friday that if the construction project is canceled, the government is prepared to enforce its rights under terms of a loan guarantee agreement, including repayment.
The letter says the two additional reactors being built at Plant Vogtle are a “linchpin” in the nation’s energy strategy.
The government has disbursed $5.6 billion of an $8.3 billion loan guarantee approved during the Obama administration.
The reactors are about 30 miles (50 kilometers) south of Augusta and are the nation’s first large-scale nuclear project in more than 30 years.
A group of Georgia lawmakers wants a “cost cap” in the construction of a nuclear power plant near Augusta, seeking to protect blown budgets from being passed on to consumers.
Two reactors being built at Plant Vogtle are billions of dollars over budget.
The plant’s owners recently learned another $2.3 billion was needed. That initiated a clause in the ownership agreement under which ninety percent of the ownership must agree to move forward or the project would be abandoned.
Georgia Power’s parent company pledged that its shareholders would absorb its share of the costs. That leaves other owners including Oglethorpe Power and Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia with a decision: pay up or pull out.
The lawmakers say the other organizations don’t have shareholders to absorb the costs and would likely need to increase rates.

domain: finance


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ASTM D4663 - 15 Standard Test Method for Polyurethane Raw Materials: Determination of Hydrolyzable Chlorine of Isocyanates
Citing ASTM Standards
Citation data is made available by participants in CrossRefs Cited-by Linking service. A comprehensive list of citations to this standard are listed here.
D1786 Standard Specification for Toluene Diisocyanate
D4661 Standard Test Methods for Polyurethane Raw Materials: Determination of Total Chlorine in Isocyanates
Referenced ASTM Standards
The documents listed below are referenced within the subject standard but are not provided as part of the standard.
D883 Terminology Relating to Plastics
D1193 Specification for Reagent Water

domain: chemistry


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In the first edition of The Daily this weekend, we focus on a study estimating that 13 percent of people have used digital coins for payments. We also look at the latest financial report from Nvidia indicating losses due to falling demand for chips used in cryptocurrency mining. Lastly, a broker suspends its crypto CFD offering.
Report: 1 in 10 People Use Cryptocurrency for Payments
The popularity of cryptocurrency as a payment method has been increasing despite the falling price of digital assets over the past year. According to a recent study conducted by cybersecurity company Kaspersky Labs, 13 percent of those surveyed have already used crypto to make purchases.


Detroit Diesel Electronic Control: Versions and Development
Your engine may run on diesel, but it's probably controlled by electronics (unless of course you run a much older engine). The ECU (electronic control unit) does exactly what it sounds likeit controls the systems in your engine, electronically. The rise of these systems have allowed for better control and monitoring of the failures within your engine, giving you a better idea of the problematic systems without nearly as much troubleshooting. These systems can be hooked up to a computer and technicians can read the failure codes to better identify what's going wrong. They also have allowed for improved engine function and features, like better horsepower and cruise control functionality.
While ECU's have been around for a while in the automotive market, Detroit Diesel is the company that really brought them into the diesel engine market with their Series 60 engines. Debuting in 1986, these engines were the first diesel engines to feature an electronic control system. This innovative system, the Detroit Diesel Electronic Control system, or DDEC, allowed for greater control of injection timing and maintenance monitoring. It also allowed for advancements that helped engines keep up with emission regulations put forth by the EPA.
Just as Detroit released several different engines in its Series 60 line, it came out with multiple versions of the DDEC throughout the years. Various changes were made to the systems, and the different versions came to be known as DDEC I, II, III, IV, V, and so on. Each variation brought with it new changes and engine capabilities, forever changing the way diesel engines run.
Overall, the changes made to the DDEC were meant to either improve engine performance or capacity, with increased horsepower being a common shift between versions, or to better meet new emission standards. Below is a brief overview of the differences between the releases of the DDEC.
The DDEC I, as you know, is the first version of Detroit's ECU. It was a 12 volt system, two box system, with an ECM in the cab and a EDM on the engine. It controlled timing and fuel injection, as well providing better system monitoring. It was, however, quickly replaced by the DDEC II.
This version has similar features to the DDEC I, in that it is a 12 volt system that controls injection and system monitoring. Detroit did, however, make the switch from two boxes to just one. It also came with a cruise control option that made for a more economical engine. The ECM has more functionality and can actuate the solenoids.
With the release of the DDEC III came improved horsepower. The system switched from a 12-volt to a dual-voltage ECM. It has improved adaptability as well. This version is significantly different from its predecessors. It operates via electronic inputs from sensors, which give the ECM the information it needs to control the engine. It has a more precise fuel timing control, using predetermined values. It has better control info and compatibility.
This version operates in a similar way to the DDEC III, but it's release also brought increased horsepower and torque. It came out at the same time as other improvements to the Series 60 line. Some changes were made to IV during its run, so early versions might operate a little differently.
DDEC V and on
More changes have been made to the DDEC systems recently, in order to increase engine efficiency and power, and as is the case with the DDEC VI, to meet new emission standards. These ECUs can be found in the later Series 60 14L applications, before the line was discontinued in 2011.
Despite its initial development for the Series 60, DDEC units are still being used in Detroit's DD line of engines. And Detroit no longer has the the only engines on the market with ECU's. Electronic control is the standard of modern diesel engines.
Need help with your DDEC, or any other component for your Detroit Series 60? Give our certified techs a call at 844-304-7688, orrequest a quote online.


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Apparently it’s National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day today. Usually I’m too late on all of these food holidays. I just don’t keep up. But today, it’s a good thing I have these in my pocket, ready to go for you. (Okay, not literally in my pocket – that would create a lot of crumbs!)
These are your traditional chocolate chip cookies, slightly soft, with chewy edges, but with a small twist. I had a partial bag of peanut butter chips in the freezer left over from making some treats for my co-workers, so I opted to use them in place of some of the chocolate chips.
What resulted was my favorite version of chocolate chip cookies, only better. There’s a lovely balance of chocolate and peanut butter in these beauties. My favorite part, though, has to be the texture. I’m very much a soft+chewy fan when it comes to chocolate chip cookies, and that specific texture is sometimes difficult to achieve when baking gluten-free. However, my friends, this seems to be the key.
Feel free to make these as written, or use all chocolate-chips for a traditional version. Unfortunately, peanut butter chips don’t come dairy-free (that I know of), so for a dairy-free version, use all dairy-free chocolate chips. They are, however, gluten-free, so you’re good to go there. Whether you make them with or without dairy, I’m sure you’ll be just as delighted.
Happy National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day.
Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Cookies (gluten-free, dairy-free options)
½ cup unrefined coconut oil, softened (can substitute butter)
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 tablespoon blackstrap molasses
1 egg yolk
1 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups superfine brown rice flour
¼ cup + 3 tablespoons tapioca starch
1 tablespoon gelatin
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
3 tablespoons water
6 oz chocolate chips or chunks (double for dairy-free – Enjoy Life chocolate chips are dairy-free)
6 oz peanut butter chips (omit for dairy-free)
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
Put the coconut oil/butter, sugar and molasses in a large mixing bowl of a stand mixer. Cream together on medium speed for about a minute. Add the egg, egg yolk and vanilla and mix again.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the brown rice flour, tapioca starch, gelatin, salt, and baking soda. Add the flour mixture to the sugar mixture and beat again on low speed until combined. Add water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. (you may not need all 3 tablespoons) Stir in the chocolate chips.
Scoop the dough into small balls (about 2 tablespoons each) and place on a parchment-lined (or silicone baking sheet lined) baking sheet, at least 2-3 inches apart. Flatten slightly with the palm of your hand.
Bake for 12 minutes or until the edges just start to brown. Remove from oven and allow to cool a few minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
Makes about 2 1/2 dozen.


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As we have told you before about Taylor Swift not getting on with her boyfriends Conor Kennedy‘s Nan Ethel Kennedy.
But after sitting down the Ethel and getting to know one and other the pair are not the best of friends. It has now been reported that Swift has splashed out on a $4.5 million on a house a street away from Ethel so she can be closer to her.
The 4,400 square foot home overlooks the ocean, has seven bedrooms, six baths, and an acre of land.
Robert Pattinson might be back with he cheating girlfriend Kristen Stewart, but he was spotted over the weekend with Sienna Miller In new York!
The actor was spotted out in New York on Friday night with Sienna. Sources have said that the pair went to the Monkey Bar, before re-locating to the Electric Room, and even LATER into the evening, the Dream Downtown Hotel!
But we think that it’s just a friendship and not a relationship.
She’s lost most of her friends and some of her family since it all came out about her affair but it looks like she has finally found a friend!
Kristen Stewart has finally found a friend in Hunger Games star Jennifer Lawrence.
Sources close to the pair have said that Jennifer was introduced to Kristen on Saturdays as the pair just clicked.
Insiders have said:
“After being introduced, Kristen and Jennifer were soon chatting like old pals. They were so excited to meet each other.”
Jennifer likes Kristen so much shes asked her to her party for her new movie in SoHo House later in the evening!

domain: celebrity


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My 2nd year photographing explorers, adventurers and their benefactors at the glamorous Explorers Club Annual Dinner, held this year at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City.
As seen in National Geographic (link at bottom)
The Monkey King Family
Richard and Laetitia are famous for dressing up in full outrageous outfits, and each year I look forward to photographing them.
Video game developer Richard Garriott de Cayeux is also known by his alter egos, Lord British in Ultima and General British in Tabula Rasa. A well-known figure in the video game industry, Garriott de Cayeux was originally a game designer and programmer, but now engages in various aspects of computer game development and business. He’s dressed here as Sun Wukong, also known as the Monkey King, a mythological figure who is featured in a body of legends tracing back to the period of the Song dynasty.
Laetitia Garriott de Cayeux is the co-founder of space-tech company Escape Dynamics. She is wearing the Chinese headpiece of the Miao people. The children’s outfits are celebrating Mongolia.
The Cave Explorer
C. William “Bill” Steele is a lifelong cave explorer who is preparing to lead an ambitious expedition to southern Mexico. The expedition, made up of cave explorers and scientists from five countries, totaling 45 people, will spend five weeks in a remote, mountainous part of Oaxaca, where native curanderos still conduct mystical pre-Hispanic magic mushroom ceremonies to commune with spirits.
Here Steele is dressed in Oaxacan curandero garb, seeking the right frame of mind to meet with a curandero to request that he communicate with “cave spirits” on the explorers’ behalf, to ease the concerns of native people that the spirits might get upset by humans trespassing into their eternal sanctuaries.
Steele and his colleagues have been exploring the cave system called Sistema Huautla since the 1970s. Though it has 20 known entrances and is 44 miles long, and is the deepest cave in the Western Hemisphere, there are other large, impressive entrances that explorers have not yet been permitted to enter due to the beliefs of local farmers. Most cavers who have ventured into Sistema Huautla have emerged saying it’s likely the world’s greatest cave. Mexican scientists in the fields of geology, biology, and paleontology will accompany this year’s monthlong expedition as they explore farther into the unknown reaches of inner Earth.
The Antarctic veteran and her handmade wool/silk dress
Kari Hyer spent 36 months in Antarctica (late 80′s-mid 90′s) – including a winter at both South Pole and McMurdo Station, her intention with this dress (designed by Cindy Ciarcia) was to honour Sir Ernest Shackleton – 2016 is the 100th anniversary of the end of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s Antarctic Expedition. I felt it fitting, especially considering the evenings theme. Most practically, she expressed her wish to stay warm!
A trained Biologist she’s had a lifelong passion for exploring nature and it’s relationships.
Randy (Randall) Hyer calls himself a ‘medical explorer’. He was the 40th winter over Medical Officer at McMurdo Station, Antarctica, ’94-’95. Randy has consulted with NASA using the Antarctic as an analogue for deep space missions, he helped pioneer the practical application of Telemedicine in remote areas and is a leading world expert in Risk and Crisis communication. He drafted the first comprehensive privacy legislation bill. Technically, he was a member of the Outbreak/Response team and the first full time civil military liaison at WHO.
The first to dive beneath the North Pole
This year’s The William Beebe Award recipient Dr Joe MacInnes was the first scientist to dive under the north pole
Joe is a medical doctor who’s pioneering research on undersea science and engineering projects earned him his nation’s highest honor—the Order of Canada. He’s worked under the Arctic, Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
His famous expeditions are too numerous to list here, but some notable ones include his dives to the wreck of the Titanic and as a key advisor to the team that discovered the wreck, his dives with James Cameron which resulted in the 3D film ‘Aliens of the Deep’.
Picture an explorer in a tiny deep-ocean submersible and it’s likely Dr MacInnes had something to do with it or was in it!
The Enigmatic Enchantress
A highlight of my yearly coverage, Alexandra Covert is responsible for the giant logistical network that dresses all the Louis Vuitton window displays around the world and takes a keen interest in exploration. Every year she’s one of my favourite subjects, always managing somehow to exactly work with my theme of set-design. It’s as if we coordinated it before hand.
Ocean Iron Man
His pose was inspired by a portrait I love of George Clooney—and David pulled it off beautifully.
David Gruber, the evening’s keynote speaker, a marine biologist, professor, National Geographic emerging explorer, and a recognized world authority in marine biology. His recent work includes the discovery and study of bioluminescent and biofluorescent marine animals, which are the subject of an upcoming 3-D IMAX film.
He deserves to be at the very top of this gallery.
The Benefactor Extraordinaire
Frederik Paulsen Jr, pictured here with his glamorous wife Olga Litviniukis is an established businessman, academic, philanthropist and explorer.
He spends most of his time and virtually all of his massive wealth planning expeditions and underwriting philanthropic projects that are, literally, all over the map.
Of everyone featured here, his bio is the hardest to encapsulate in a couple of paragraphs. Let’s just say that all other famous billionaire philanthropists don’t hold a candle to Mr Paulsen’s contribution to the world of exploration, both financially and through his own explorations.
Seriously, google him, he’s incredible.
The Harvard Professor of Neuroscience, and so much more
Dr. S. Allen Counter is a professional explorer who has initiated scientific research and cultural studies among the indigenous people of the Suriname South American rain forest. His explorations led to over a decade of major articles on the little known rain forest descendents of 17th and 18th century African slaves, in a variety of international periodicals including Newsweek, Time, New York Times, Boston Globe, Smithsonian, Dagens Nyheter (Sweden), Expressen (Sweden), as well asscientific journals.
He produced an award-winning documentary on the culture of the Rain Forest African-American people, I Shall Moulder Before I Shall Be Taken, which has been shown on television and screen throughout the world (including the ancestral villages in Africa). His research work with the Rain Forest African-Americans, and his films on their tribal customs and heritage have been the subject of a 90 minute PBS special entitled, I Sought My Brother, an ABC Television show called Rebel Slaves and a later PBS special called Vanishing Tribe.
He’s a fascinating character who charmed everyone in my team. Their enthusiasm for his work has infected me as well.
The Extracurricular Explorer
Gillian Driscoll works in the music industry and, like many others in attendance, has a passion for exploration without being an explorer herself. She’s wearing a mermaid-inspired outfit with a headpiece from the 1960s reminiscent of a starfish.
Along with Alexandra (above), they were the talk of the dinner and represent the future of the Explorers Club, a modern crowd merging creative pursuits with an interest in exploration.
The Exotic Chef
Internationally recognized exotic food expert Gene Rurka oversees the world-famous menu for the yearly gala. The food theme this year was “invasive species.” He’s pictured here with a deep-fried boa constrictor. Other items on the menu included deep-fried tarantulas, sautéed cockroaches, and many other invasive species.
Rurka’s work is an integral part of what makes the club’s annual event so special. Seeing the passion in his eyes as he talks about earth’s food future is inspiring. Hint: it includes lots and lots of insects.
The Underwater Dream Team
David Doubilet and Jennifer Hayes are both among the top underwater photographers in the world. They’ve both been shooting for National Geographic for decades. You’ve all seen their images.
They were utterly charming as portrait subjects. Jennifer remarked, ‘Do fish feel this way when I photograph them?’
The Scuba Pioneer
Carla Guicome was Mozambique’s first female scuba dive instructor. Ss president of Bitonga divers association, she train Mozambicans to become Professional divers! Her mission is to empower and provide opportunity to indigenous people, particularly women.
American marine biologist, explorer, author, and lecturer Sylvia Earle has been a National Geographic explorer-in-residence since 1998. Earle was the first female chief scientist of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and was named by Time magazine as its first Hero for the Planet in 1998. She won the Explorers Club Medal in 1996, and has been an active member of the club for decades. In 2013, she received the esteemed National Geographic Hubbard Medal.
The Polar Scientist
Geoscientist, ecologist, and meteorologist Frederick Roots, the recipient of the 2016 Explorers Medal—the Explorers Club’s most prestigious award—was honored for being a global force in polar, circumpolar, and biopolar research and discovery. He was part of the Norwegian-British-Swedish Antarctic Expedition from 1949 to 1952 and set the record for longest unsupported dogsled journey at 189 days.
I asked for an explanation of what the rock samples were all about, but alas, the response was ‘I just gave a 45 minute talk on this.’. I do know they have something to do with early modern navigational techniques that go way over my head.
Vintage fashion aficionada Colleen Manassa Darnell (wearing a Bill Gibb gown) is an Egyptologist with the Yale Peabody Museum and the University of Hartford, who is concentrating her current fieldwork on the exploration of a group of Late Roman “lost cities” that she and her expedition have discovered on ancient routes through the Eastern Desert of Egypt.
She floated onto my set and floated away again with an otherworldly grace.
The Executive Explorer
Maria Wilhelm is a board member of the Explorers Club and is the Executive Director of the Avatar Alliance Foundation and President & COO of CAMERON Companies (James Cameron)
Her sustainably-sourced, handmade jewelry is constructed from fragments of Paua shell found in the deep waters off of the South Island of New Zealand near the Antarctic, and was created by artist Libby Pool in Byron Bay, Australia. Paua have been used for centuries as art by the Maori, the indigenous people of New Zealand, as well as recognized by them for healing properties for anything from calcium deficiencies to hearing disorders. The Maori have also associated Paua with promoting clarity, wisdom and prosperity.
The Textile Explorer
Justin “Baron” Fornal is an explorer and filmmaker currently working on the National Geographic Explorer series. His newest expedition documents and repurposes indigenous textile production and dyeing techniques from around the world. The fabric of his outfit is from a traditional posahuanco made in Pinotepa de Don Luis, Mexico, and dyed using purpura snails (purple), cochineal (red), and indigo (blue). It is from the first stop of his fabrics expedition, showcasing vanishing ancient textile production techniques.
As his alter ego, Baron Ambrosia, he showcases America’s little-known ethnic enclaves on the Cooking Channel’s The Culinary Adventures of Baron Ambrosia.
The Rat Pack
l-r Mark Bezos, Steve Poore and Josh Bernstein together make up quite an accomplished group of friends.
Mark is the Senior Vice President of Development, Communications & Events at Robin Hood, the leading poverty-fighting charity in New York City. Mark tells me that essentially he’s ‘selling karma’, an apt way to describe his fundraising activities.
He’s also is the Assistant Captain of a volunteer fire company in Westchester County, New York.
I suspect Mark is getting more and more involved in his brother Jeff’s Blue Origin space technology development company. When I asked him to give me some inside info, he declined, with a cheeky grin, to give any information. They are up to something great, I can feel it.
Steve is the Direct of the Bezos Family Foundation, which supports rigorous, inspired learning environments for young people, from birth through high school, to put their education into action. Through investments in research, public awareness and programs, the foundation works to elevate the field of education and improve life outcomes for all children. Our focus includes early learning, strengthening the K-12 public education system and supporting young leaders.
Josh is an American explorer, author, survival expert, anthropologist, and TV host known as the host of Digging for the Truth and many other TV shows.
These three met at sea in 2013, when they spent almost a month at sea on the Apollo F-1 Engine Expedition (TEC Flag #132). The Explorers Club honored them and their shipmates with the Citation of Merit in 2014.
Together these guys are arguably connected to the top of the who’s who in exploration. Getting them all together in one photo was easy, getting them to leave the set was harder, they seemed to belong.
The Scarlet Philanthropist
Evva Fenison was on Explorers Club Flag Expedition #216, where she explored a Bioflourescent reef in Indonesia.
There’s no more perfect portrait her, a luminous aura surrounds her, the dress (by Canadian designer Wayne Clark) a perfect accompaniment.
The moment I saw her, I knew what pose we would be doing, and it worked.
The Afghan Educator
Sandra Cook is a national member of the Explorers club and spent close to 10 years on and off in Afghanistan, working on a foundation that built a library on the campus of the Kabul University. She served as the Vice President at the American University of Afghanistan.
She’s always getting up to some sort of adventure, most recently riding horseback across the Wakhan corridor to the source of the Oxus River. Make of that what you wish!
The hand-made ensemble includes an Afghan wedding hat, an Afghan dress over which is fitted a hand-embroidered Afghan vest, all procured at afghan markets. The dress is about 50 years old.
The TV wildlife expert
Jim Fowler is a world-famous wildlife expert and TV show host of the award-winning television show Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom and Animal Planet.
Much to my dismay I found out too late that Jim gave his speech at the dinner with a snake wrapped around his neck. The animal was taken away before Jim made it to my booth. My mad dash across the Waldorf Astoria to retrieve it ultimately ended up in disappointment. And no, it’s not the same animal you can see deep friend in the portrait of Gene Rurka above
The Master of Ceremonies
Ann Curry is an American television personality, news journalist and photojournalist. Curry has been a reporter for more than 30 years, focused on human suffering in war zones and natural disasters. Curry has reported from the wars in Syria, Darfur, Congo, the Central African Republic, Kosovo, Lebanon, Israel, Afghanistan and Iraq, among others. Curry has covered numerous disasters, including the tsunamis in Southeast Asia and the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, where her appeal via Twitter topped Twitter’s ‘most powerful’ list, credited for helping speed the arrival of humanitarian planes.
Embarrassingly I did not know any of this when I photographed her (I don’t watch much television), but she was amazingly sweet to my suddenly fawning crew. I noticed them all treating her with deference and whispered into her ear ‘you’re so nice these guys are all walking on egg-shells around you’.
Just another one of those moments when I have my foot firmly planted in my mouth.
My producer Allie said ‘that’s probably one of the most famous people you’ve ever photographed’ punched me in the arm and said ‘and you didn’t even realise it’. She’s clearly a fan and now so am I!
The Polar Queen
Tamara Mazur is the official Media Representative of Foundation Mamont. Through many years of experience in the fields of Marketing and Media Communication, Tamara Mazur has been supporting the mission of the foundation since September 2013 by promoting its research efforts in the Polar Regions, informed action to achieve a sustainable environment, thus duly enabling it to spread its scientific discoveries across the globe.
The Easter Island Archeologist
Chilean Archeoastronomer Edmundo Edwards, a 45 year resident of Easter Island, has devoted his life to the scientific study, survey of numerous sites and preservation of the archaeology and culture of the Polynesia. Co-founder the Pacific Islands Research Institute, Edwards works tirelessly towards continued discovery, analysis, documentation, restoration and understanding of South Pacific history and cultures. Co-author with his daughter Alexandra Edwards of “When the Universe was an Island”, a very thorough study of the history and cultures of Polynesia.
This year Edmundo was awarded the Explorers Club Citation of Merit.
The supporter of women explorers
Ashley Jurgensen, representing with the Wings World Quest with an outfit by Gary Graham.
Through the Fellows and Flag Carrier programs, WINGS creates community and showcases the groundbreaking work of women scientists and explorers, whose discoveries advance scientific inquiry, stimulate conservation, and lead to better understanding of our world.
WINGS’ outreach programs provide a platform for women scientists and explorers to share their work and inspire the next generation of intrepid explorers and global problem-solvers.
Constance Difede is the Vice President for special projects at the Club. This year she won a Sweeney medal for her work in the club. She has her fingers in many pies of exploration and is responsible for some of the most attention-grabbing projects at the Explorers Club over the years.
The Film Maker
Emily Driscoll is a science video director/producer and the founder of BonSci Films, a production company specializing in science and art documentaries. Her films about invasive species, restoring wild oysters to New York Harbor, the threats of microplastics, and preserving fireflies and darkness in the environment, have screened internationally at museums, universities and film festivals, and have aired on PBS stations in the U.S..
She’s one of the co-chairs of the Explorers Club dinner and was integral in finding a spot to squeeze our photo set somewhere between the submersibles, space suits and tables of deep fried snakes, cockroaches and tarantulas.
Backdrops by Violet Oliphant O’Neill
With thanks to everyone involved: The Explorers Club, The Waldorf Astoria Hotel, Adorama Rentals Company, Matt Richards, Alex Schaefer, Chaunna Michole, Allie Settle, Anne Mary Potts, Bill & Sharyn Runyon, Eric Zember.


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Here’s something I may throw at you now and then: a random music video. Well, maybe not so random to me as they will be you. Chances are I heard the song on XM, had it going through my head for a few days or just really dig the video.
Or it could simply be a guilty pleasure. And I promise–no RickRolls. Unless, of course, the subject is Mr. Astley himself.
Ready for today’s Totally Random Music Video? Click the link below!
“To Be With You” by Mr Big. This one was definitely inspired by my XM listening habits and I had one of those better-not-wreck-the-truck reactions when it started coming out my speakers. Released in 1992, Mr. Big was definitely riding on the coattails of yet another sappy acoustic love song, but these Aquanet lovers decided to take things to 11 by adding their own new twist–hand claps.
Like midgets and /or bacon, hand claps make everything better. And that made all the difference. But no matter how many times I watch that video (as I do admit to digging the song ever so slightly), I still want to sock that lead singer in the mouth. He’s too…quirky.
On the health front, this cold continues to kick my ass–and hard. Just when I thought I was feeling better, I get to work and immediately felt like shit on a stick. In fact I’m usually taking my one-mile walk at this [lunch] time but instead find myself blogging from my desk at work. I just don’t feel up to exerting any more energy than I have to. I just feel really crappy at the moment.
As a result, and this goes out to the Rosarito Boys, don’t be surprised by any typos I may have overlooked. Cold medicine is good for that, you know.


With the emergence of edge computing and 5G, networks are changing rapidly and requiring CSPs to instantiate multiple instances of a network, using network slicing architecture and a DevOps cycle of management. There is an increased focus on cloud infrastructures, (xNFs) i.e. Virtual Network Functions (VNFs) and Cloud-native Network Functions (CNFs).
IBM and Red Hat are taking the pain out of this transformation with IBM Telco Network Cloud Manager® V 1.3, which is now generally available.
IBM Telco Network Cloud Manager® V 1.3 aims to simplify, automate and optimize the end-to-end (E2E) network transformation and provides several key benefits:
- Deploy new network functions and services in an automated way leading to a very rapid time to market.
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Supports E2E orchestration and lifecycle management of network services to support cloud network adoption across all cloud domains.
Accelerates telco network service delivery and time to market by using an automated approach to onboard your network functions.
Uses (xNF) eco system certification program jointly administered and delivered by IBM and Red Hat, to certify the onboarding and service assurance.
Accelerates time to market with confidence, using the vendor VNF and CNF certification ecosystem.
Includes Kubernetes Virtualized Infrastructure Manager (VIM) driver.
Adds support for asynchronous communication between Telco Network Cloud Manager - Orchestration and resource managers.
Kubernetes operator based installation of Telco Network Cloud Manager – Orchestration replaces the Helm charts installation of earlier releases, enabling a more controlled and safe installation.
As a result of these capabilities you can expect to experience improved (xNF) lifecycle management, as part of the orchestration process. It offers an Intent-based orchestration approach designed to provide a significant decrease in effort needed in comparison to workflow-based procedures in the market.
The VNF certification process run jointly by IBM and Red Hat helps to ensure that the services offered can meet the predefined service quality levels of third-party VNFs, CNFs, and the Red Hat OpenStack and Red Hat OpenShift Network Function Virtualization Infrastructure (NFVi) layer of the network cloud.
Assurance via Watson AIOps NEW
Telco Network Cloud Manager now packages IBM Watson AIOps for IBM Cloud Pak for Data 2.0 and it utilizes AI Manager to analyze structured and unstructured data channels that pertain to applications, including IBM Watson AIOps Alert Manager for events and topology data, Humio, LogDNA, and PagerDuty.
Integrates with the following IBM Netcool offerings:
- Operations Insight
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- IBM Tivoli Netcool/OMNibus
Metric Manager analyzes performance and monitoring data (metric data) across silos, domains, vendors, and systems such as New Relic, AppDynamics, and SolarWinds. It automatically learns the normal operational behavior of the metrics in an organization's environment to automatically detect anomalies and offer a wide range of proactive outage avoidance capabilitie.
Event Manager uses correlation and analysis processes to deliver a robust analytics-driven alert and incident management solution that helps organizations collect, consolidate, and correlate events and topology data from virtually any source.
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- Self-service with user-friendly dashboard design tool to create new or customize out-of-the box dashboards.
Why not take a glimpse of the Network Slicing product tour that has been released recently: CSPs need to modernize their networks and enable enterprises to deliver new services at the edge.
- Chat to sales or schedule a consultation
Visit our IBM Telco Network Cloud Manager web page and reach out to one of our dedicated SMEs to address any questions that you may have. Alternatively, select the option to Chat with Sales for any of your sales-related questions.
Read our latest Announcement
Brian Kirwan & Carmel Burgess
IBM Telco Network Cloud Manager


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By John Celock
The mayor of Minnesota’s capital city has announced his intention to seek the governorship in 2018.
St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman (D) announced Tuesday that he will be entering the Democratic primary field to succeed Gov. Mark Dayton (D), who will not seek a third term in 2018. Coleman is the second Democrat to enter a gubernatorial race that is likely to be competitive.
“I am running for governor because I believe Minnesota is strongest when we work together. I believe we are at our best when we are true to ourselves. I believe that no one has to lose so that others can win. I believe Minnesota is the greatest state in the nation. These are my guiding principles,” Coleman said in a statement announcing his candidacy. “From small towns to larger cities, we all want good paying jobs, a strong future for our children, a sustainable environment and safe communities for our families. Here in Minnesota, we understand this only comes from hard work, a commitment to fairness and a willingness to make bold decisions.”
Coleman enters the race after state Rep. Erin Murphy because the first Democrat to announce her intention to seek the governorship. Murphy, a former state House minority leader, has outlined a vision based on her background as the daughter of an auto worker and as a nurse.
Several other Democrats are thought to be considering races for governor including Lt. Gov. Tina Smith, Attorney General Lori Swanson, state Auditor Rebecca Otto and former Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybek. Smith would likely have backing from Dayton and his inner circle if she entered the race to succeed him. Smith has been the state’s most visible and powerful lieutenant governor since she took office as Dayton’s second term running mate in 2015. A former chief of staff to Dayton in his first term, Smith has carved out a role as a top advisor to Dayton, different from many of her predecessors, who played a primarily ceremonial role as lieutenant governor.
On the Republican side, state House Speaker Kurt Daudt, U.S. Rep. Erik Paulsen, U.S. Rep. Tom Emmer, state Sen. Julie Rosen and state Rep. Matt Dean are considered possible candidates. No Republicans have officially entered the gubernatorial race.
The Minnesota governor’s race will be one of the few where Democrats will seek to retain a governorship in 2018. With Democrats trailing in gubernatorial office holding nationally, Democratic-leaning Minnesota will likely be a top national target for the party. Dayton was the first Democrat to win the Minnesota governorship in 20 years when he won his first term in 2010.


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Tractor and air check of private car
On 2016-11-27 13:31:04
The gauge is large and easy to see. There are things with air pressures of 1.0k or 1.2k or 2.0k or less for the rear wheels of large tractors, but it is very easy to use. It is a small gauge at the home center and it can not be done with coarse graduations. I am satisfied with very good things.
On 2016-10-10 21:17:11
Very easy to use, it is useful, but is the box small? At first, bending of the hose, we have to fix it.
On 2016-09-29 17:28:21
I am thinking about the durability of the hose. Ultraviolet light ... has it become strong?
Tire inflation time
On 2016-09-06 16:15:50
Usability is No. 1. I think that durability is also good.
On 2016-06-30 03:45:25
Necessities of a tire shop. I will insert a screwdriver or inner nut into the lever automatically. Do not imitate a good child.
Tire air adjustment
On 2016-03-23 16:11:57
Already about 20 years, air gauge must be Michelin!
On 2016-01-14 17:23:54
If the body has a one-touch coupler ...
It is used for tire air filling & measurement.
On 2016-01-11 15:24:47
It is truly a Michelin dine gauge. It is very expensive.
Tire air pressure adjustment
On 2015-01-31 23:02:19
I thought that it was a good thing, but I bought it but the needle shifted with about 20 times use. I have no choice but to use it as a guide. The needle is misaligned. Because I have seen that the other is also misaligned, it may be a product that tends to shift unless it treats it very carefully.


text:
Call for solidarity with Croatian shipyard workers by Croatian anarchosyndicalist group MASA.
Since the Croatian government and the existing political elites want to see Croatia as a member of the European Union, all the shipyards are soon to be privatized. The shipyards, employing around ten thousand workers, are indebted and robbed, and they are being selled for, literally, one Croatian kuna. Apparently, every buyer must keep the majority of the employees, and in that way, our government washes its hands. But, the workers know what to expect. They are aware of the fact that we will soon see the case of Poland repeating in Croatia, and they don’t like that at all. The workers are even more sinking into apathy and despair.
Rijeka’s local group of The Network of Anarcho-Syndicalists (MASA), whose members work in one of the biggest Croatian shipyards – 3rd May - which has over 3 000 employees, is trying to “shake up the workers”, and to offer them “a saving belt” form apathy, alienation and despair into which we are sinking more and more every day because of capitalism. We can see only one possible solution for this problem and that’s the direct action of the workers, through the idea of direct democracy and through organizing the workers’ plenum!
With their rebellion and with blocking their faculties, the Croatian students have used in practice one of the main anarchist ideas – direct democracy! They have achieved the emergence of this idea to the surface and, hopefully, this idea shall be use for other battles also. As an organization, MASA promotes the idea of direct-democratic organizing of society and production, opposing to the existing system that is combined of the state and capitalism.
But, it is not easy to organize the workers’ plenum. To make this idea effective, a lot of effort, work and struggle are required. So, writing this, we are calling for your action of solidarity.
We are asking from all the organizations, especially from those akin to MASA, that are promoting the ideas of direct democracy, to write a letter of support to the shipyard workers organizing the workers’ plenum. The letter of support doesn’t have to be long; it doesn’t have to be a work of art, what’s important is an act of solidarity with the workers, so they will know that they are not alone, they will know that their comrades are with them.
Send your letter of support to the following e-mail address: sec.international[at]masa-hr.org
So far, we have received letters of solidarity from comrades from syndicates: Priama Akcia (Slovakia), USI (Italy), Solidarity Federation (United Kingdom), CRAS (Russia), AIT (Portugal) and NSF (Norway). Thank you for your support.
We hope that workers will succeed in their attempts! We hope that together with them we will be able to organize the first workers’ plenum in Croatia.
Direct democracy and direct action!
Plenum’s to the workplaces!
International Secretary of MASA
1) Plenum - Term used by Croatian students in their blockades for direct democratic general assembly.
2) Picture used here's actually MASA's sticker which say: "Shipyards to the workers! Management into the sea!"

domain: sociology


text:
Saudi Arabia and non-OPEC Russia have decided to extend production cuts by another 9 months till March 2018 with the aim to tame the global crude oversupply that is still dragging prices down. Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih and his Russian counterpart Alexander Novak said in a statement that they would “do whatever it takes” to decrease the inventory overhang. The OPEC members are meeting at the end of this month to consider whether to prolong production cuts agreed in December 2016 between OPEC and 11 non-member countries, including Russia.
With this new extension the OPEC meeting, the cartel now has to persuade its members and some non-OPEC producers to support the move. OPEC member Iraq, whose output is rising fast, said that it would support the freeze only for another half a year. Non-OPEC member Kazakhstan said on Monday (15 May) that it would find it hard to join any new deal on the cold terms, as its own production was set to go up. Oman has already supported the extension of 9 months in full.
OPEC wants to decrease the world’s oil inventories to their five-year average but so far has struggled to achieve this goal. Stockpiles are currently near record highs, partly being driven by the rising output of the United States. “There has been a marked reduction to the inventories, but we’re not where we want to be in reaching the five-year average,” Mr. al-Falih told a briefing in Beijing while attending China’s summit on the One Belt, One Road initiative. “We’ve come to the conclusion that the agreement needs to be extended.” Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed that his country’s biggest oil companies would back up the 9-month extension as well.


Feb 10, 2014, 10:09 AM EDT
Barcelona manager Gerardo Martino has revealed that prior to Lionel Messi’s brace in the Blaugrana’s 4-1 win over Sevilla on Sunday, the Argentine’s pride had been affected by negative criticism over his recent form.
Leading up to last weekend’s contest Messi had played in three matches since returning from a two month layoff with a hamstring issue. During that three game spell Messi scored only once – a penalty in the 3-2 loss to Valencia – triggering widespread criticism of the forward’s form.
“Those that are negative do not realize they are affecting his pride,” Martino said. “When you do that to the best player in the world, this is what happens.”
“This,” as Martino refers to it, was the sensational double that Messi handed Sevilla. Both goals came on brilliant counter attacks in conditions that would’ve had Noah rounding up the animals.
The first came 44 minutes in with the score deadlocked at one apiece. A Marc Bartra tackle at the edge of the box was recovered by right-back Martin Montoya, who fed Xavi, who found a streaking Andres Iniesta. The Spaniard’s diagonal ball was met by Adriano at midfield, who played Alexis Sanchez wide left. The Chilean cut back at the top of the Sevilla box and served up Messi, trailing in the center of the park. With the water-logged pitch a nuisance, Messi brilliantly stabbed the ball into the air before rifling a left-footed volley into the far side-netting.
Without a doubt, it was one of the best team and individual goals in a long time.
The second came in the 55th minute when Sevilla’s Kevin Gameiro was met by a well-timed Gerard Pique slide tackle 10 yards outside the Barcelona box. Iniesta latched on to the ball and quickly found Xavi, who played out to Montoya, who then served up Alex Song in the center of the park. Song split the Sevilla midfield with a pass to Messi inside the center circle, who then fed a breaking Iniesta, who passed back to Messi 25 yards out from goal. As three Sevilla defenders quickly collapsed, Messi settled the ball with his right foot before unleashing a low, left-footed curler into the bottom corner.
Putting a cap on Martino’s musings was Iniesta, who reminded critics of one of Messi’s greatest tricks – the ability to lull opposition into believing he’s not into it: “Leo never goes missing, he is one of the few players in the world that in a few seconds or in a few meters can turn a game. He does it all the time and he did it again against Sevilla.”
Aug 2, 2015, 12:02 AM EDT
That’s 7 losses in 8 games for the Sounders. Meanwhile, the ‘Caps go top of the West.
Aug 1, 2015, 10:47 PM EDT
Another Royal Rumble between old rivals. While the rest of MLS went goal-crazy, these two did what they always do.
Aug 1, 2015, 9:33 PM EDT
The goals floweth over in MLS tonight. Cyle Larin scored his second straight brace for Orlando City.
Aug 1, 2015, 9:11 PM EDT
D.C. United and RSL combined for 10 goals at RFK Stadium Saturday night. Let the video do the talking.
Aug 1, 2015, 7:25 PM EDT
The Premier League season is here…almost. The final week of preseason has begun.
Aug 1, 2015, 6:25 PM EDT
The new seasons in Germany and France are underway following an afternoon full of Super Cup action.
Aug 1, 2015, 4:29 PM EDT
It’s not been the greatest week of Miguel Herrera’s life. He’s in legal trouble yet again.
Aug 1, 2015, 4:15 PM EDT
Another wild afternoon at Yankee Stadium ends in defeat for NYCFC. Pirlo made his first MLS start and Lampard made his MLS debut.
Aug 1, 2015, 2:45 PM EDT
Can Spurs crack the top four? Or will it be another season on the outside looking in at White Hart Lane?
Aug 1, 2015, 1:50 PM EDT
Wenger has never beaten Mourinho before, but he’ll have a chance to do so tomorrow in the Community Shield.
Aug 1, 2015, 12:56 PM EDT
Rodgers better hope his “bargain” buy scores a lot of goals for Liverpool this season.
Aug 1, 2015, 12:00 PM EDT
Coming off of their best-ever Premier League finish, Garry Monk has the Swans thinking about bringing European football to Wales.
Aug 1, 2015, 11:04 AM EDT
He still played in Shakhtar’s Champions League match this week, which could cause his club some troubles.
Aug 1, 2015, 10:07 AM EDT
Is Dimitar Berbatov on his way back to the Premier League? All the latest gossip, right here.
Aug 1, 2015, 9:10 AM EDT
In both of Watford’s two seasons in the Premier League, the club finished in last place. Can the newly promoted Hornets avoid relegation the third time around?
Aug 1, 2015, 8:15 AM EDT
A big blow for the Hammers as the Premier League kicks off a week from today.
Jul 31, 2015, 9:52 PM EDT
The leaked images of United’s kit were the real McCoy, and the Red Devils white-cuffed kits are pretty sharp.
Jul 31, 2015, 9:09 PM EDT
What’s 5,000 or so miles amongst fans?
Jul 31, 2015, 8:14 PM EDT
Guardiola can erase a minor Bayern demon with his first Super Cup win on Saturday versus Wolfsburg.
Jul 31, 2015, 7:08 PM EDT
In the PDL, Seattle Sounders U-23, New York Red Bulls U-23, K-W United and Ocala Stampede are left, while the NPSL has New York Cosmos B, Chattanooga FC, Indiana Fire and CD Aguiluchos USA remaining.
- MLS Snapshot: Seattle Sounders 0-3 Vancouver Whitecaps (video) 0
- MLS Snapshot: Orlando City SC 5-2 Columbus Crew SC (video) 0
- MLS Snapshot: D.C. United 6-4 Real Salt Lake (video) 0
- Premier League friendly roundup: Man City lose in Germany, Liverpool win in Finland 0
- Brendan Rodgers says $50 million for Christian Benteke was a bargain 0
- Saturday’s Transfer Rumor Roundup: Berbatov to Villa, Rahman to Chelsea 1


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For the user, the advantages of having a microprocessor-based sensor are many:
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