Dr Catia Costa
Academic and research departments
I was awarded my postgradute degree on the "Detection of cocaine and respective metabolites using fingerprints" from the University of Surrey in April 2017.
Currently working at the University of Surrey's Ion Beam Centre (http://www.ionbeamcentre.co.uk/) as a Liaison Fellow. Here are the Ion Beam Centre we are world leading in the field of ion beam modification and ion beam analysis.
Areas of specialism
University roles and responsibilities
- Surrey's Ion Beam Centre Liaison Fellow
Affiliations and memberships
Elemental and molecular imaging play a crucial role in understanding disease pathogenesis. To accurately correlate elemental and molecular markers, it is desirable to perform sequential elemental and molecular imaging on a single-tissue section. However, very little is known about the impact of performing these measurements in sequence. In this work, we highlight some of the challenges and successes associated with performing elemental mapping in sequence with mass spectrometry imaging. Specifically, the feasibility of molecular mapping using the mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) techniques matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) and desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) in sequence with the elemental mapping technique particle-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) is explored. Challenges for integration include substrate compatibility, as well as delocalization and spectral changes. We demonstrate that while sequential imaging comes with some compromises, sequential DESI-PIXE imaging is sufficient to correlate sulfur, iron, and lipid markers in a single tissue section at the 50 μm scale.
Characterizing proton beam damage in biological materials is of interest to enable the integration of proton microprobe elemental mapping techniques with other imaging modalities. It is also of relevance to obtain a deeper understanding of mechanical damage to lipids in tissues during proton beam cancer therapy. We have developed a novel strategy to characterize proton beam damage to lipids in biological tissues based on mass spectrometry imaging. This methodology is applied to characterize changes to lipids in tissues ex vivo, irradiated under different conditions designed to mitigate beam damage. This work shows that performing proton beam irradiation at ambient pressure, as well as including the application of an organic matrix prior to irradiation, can reduce damage to lipids in tissues. We also discovered that, irrespective of proton beam irradiation, placing a sample in a vacuum prior to desorption electrospray ionization imaging can enhance lipid signals, a conclusion that may be of future benefit to the mass spectrometry imaging community.
Metabolic flux is the final output of cellular regulation and has been extensively studied for carbon but much less is known about nitrogen, which is another important building block for living organisms. For the tuberculosis pathogen, this is particularly important in informing the development of effective drugs targeting the pathogen's metabolism. Here we performed 13C15N dual isotopic labeling of Mycobacterium bovis BCG steady state cultures, quantified intracellular carbon and nitrogen fluxes and inferred reaction bidirectionalities. This was achieved by model scope extension and refinement, implemented in a multi-atom transition model, within the statistical framework of Bayesian model averaging (BMA). Using BMA-based 13C15N-metabolic flux analysis, we jointly resolve carbon and nitrogen fluxes quantitatively. We provide the first nitrogen flux distributions for amino acid and nucleotide biosynthesis in mycobacteria and establish glutamate as the central node for nitrogen metabolism. We improved resolution of the notoriously elusive anaplerotic node in central carbon metabolism and revealed possible operation modes. Our study provides a powerful and statistically rigorous platform to simultaneously infer carbon and nitrogen metabolism in any biological system.
The metallome has been involved in the pathological investigation into ocular tissue for decades; however, as technologies advance, more information can be ascertained from individual tissue sections that were not previously possible. Herein, a demonstration of complementary techniques has been utilized to describe the distribution and concentrations of essential metals in both wildtype (WT) and rhodopsin (Rho−/−) ocular tissues. The multimodal approach described is an example of complementary datasets that can be produced when employing a multifaceted analytical approach. Heterogenous distributions of copper and zinc were observable within both WT and Rho−/− tissue by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), and the distributions of further trace elements notoriously problematic for ICP-MS analysis (phosphorous, Sulfur, chlorine, potassium, calcium, iron, and aluminum) were analysed by particle-induced X-ray emission (PIXE).
Metabolic flux is the final output of cellular regulation and has been extensively studied for carbon but much less is known about nitrogen, which is another important building block for living organisms. For the tuberculosis pathogen, this is particularly important in informing the development of effective drugs targeting the pathogen's metabolism. Here we performed 13C15N dual isotopic labeling of Mycobacterium bovis BCG steady state cultures, quantified intracellular carbon and nitrogen fluxes and inferred reaction bidirectionalities. This was achieved by model scope extension and refinement, implemented in a multi‐atom transition model, within the statistical framework of Bayesian model averaging (BMA). Using BMA‐based 13C15N‐metabolic flux analysis, we jointly resolve carbon and nitrogen fluxes quantitatively. We provide the first nitrogen flux distributions for amino acid and nucleotide biosynthesis in mycobacteria and establish glutamate as the central node for nitrogen metabolism. We improved resolution of the notoriously elusive anaplerotic node in central carbon metabolism and revealed possible operation modes. Our study provides a powerful and statistically rigorous platform to simultaneously infer carbon and nitrogen metabolism in any biological system. Synopsis Bayesian 13C15N‐MFA is an approach for simultaneous quantification of intracellular carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) metabolic fluxes in any living system. It is applied to Mycobacterium bovis BCG to measure the first CN flux map, highlighting glutamate as the central node for nitrogen metabolism. Bayesian 13C15N‐MFA allows for simultaneous quantification of intracellular carbon and nitrogen fluxes in living systems. BMA resolved the most likely operation modes of the anaplerotic node in M. bovis BCG. Glutamate was confirmed as the central node for nitrogen metabolism in M. bovis BCG. Bayesian 13C15N‐MFA is an approach for simultaneous quantification of intracellular carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) metabolic fluxes in any living system. It is applied to Mycobacterium bovis BCG to measure the first CN flux map, highlighting glutamate as the central node for nitrogen metabolism.
Liquid Extraction Surface Analysis (LESA) is a new, high throughput tool for ambient mass spectrometry. A solvent droplet is deposited from a pipette tip onto a surface and maintains contact with both the surface and the pipette tip for a few seconds before being re-aspirated. The technique is particularly suited to the analysis of trace materials on surfaces due to its high sensitivity and low volume of sample removal. In this work, we assess the suitability of LESA for obtaining detailed chemical profiles of fingerprints, oral fluid and urine, which may be used in future for rapid medical diagnostics or metabolomics studies. We further show how LESA can be used to detect illicit drugs and their metabolites in urine, oral fluid and fingerprints. This makes LESA a potentially useful tool in the growing field of fingerprint chemical analysis, which is relevant not only to forensics but also to medical diagnostics. Finally, we show how LESA can be used to detect the explosive material RDX in contaminated artificial fingermarks.
Paper spray mass spectrometry is a rapid and sensitive tool for explosives detection but has so far only been demonstrated using high resolution mass spectrometry, which bears too high a cost for many practical applications. Here we explore the potential for paper spray to be implemented in field applications with portable mass spectrometry. This involved (a) replacing the paper substrate with a swabbing material (which we call “swab spray”) for compatibility with standard collection materials; (b) collection of explosives from surfaces; (c) an exploration of interferences within a ± 0.5 m/z window; and (d) demonstration of the use of high-field assisted waveform ion mobility spectrometer (FAIMS) for enhanced selectivity. We show that paper and Nomex® are viable collection materials, with Nomex providing cleaner spectra and therefore greater potential for integration with portable mass spectrometers. We show that sensitive detection using swab spray will require a mass spectrometer with a mass resolving power of 4000 or more. We show that by coupling the swab spray ionisation source with FAIMS, it is possible to reduce background interferences, thereby facilitating the use of a low resolving power (e.g. quadrupole) mass spectrometer.
We have calibrated on-site WD-XRF (wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescence) measurements of GeSbTe:N (GST:N) stoichiometry with off-site accurate ion beam analysis (IBA). N is determined by elastic backscattering spectrometry (EBS) using the resonance at 3.7 MeV in the 14N(a, a)14N reaction. Ge and Sb+Te are determined by Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS) separately but self-consistently with the resonant EBS: the Sb/Te ratio can be determined by RBS but not with useful precision. The XRF instrumental function is determined using pure metal standards and the spectra are quantified using Fundamental Parameters code. We find that, as expected, for both Ge and (Sb+Te) the heavy elements are determined accurately by XRF (within the uncertainties), but for N the standardless XRF has non-linear errors around 10%. Using the absolute N content determined by IBA a calibration curve is obtained allowing N determination by WD-XRF at a precision of about 1% and an absolute accuracy (traceable through IBA) of about 4 % for GST films with N content between 4-20 at%. The IBA measurement precision of the N content of the GST-N XRF calibration samples is 0.4 at% (that is, a relative precision ranging from 10 % to 2 % for N contents between 4-20 at%).
Surface mass spectrometry methods can be difficult to use effectively with low cost, portable mass spectrometers. This is because commercially available portable (single quadrupole) mass spectrometers lack the mass resolution to confidently differentiate between analyte and background signals. Additionally, current surface analysis methods provide no facility for chromatographic separation and therefore are vulnerable to ion suppression. Here we present a new analytical method where analytes are extracted from a sample using a solvent flushed across the surface under high pressure, separated using a chromatography column and then analysed using a portable mass spectrometer. The use of chromatography reduces ion suppression effects and this, used in combination with in-source fragmentation, increases selectivity, thereby allowing high sensitivity to be achieved with a portable and affordable quadrupole mass spectrometer. We demonstrate the efficacy of the method for the quantitative detection of cocaine and benzoylecgonine in urine and oral fluid. The method gives relative standard deviations below 15% (with one exception), and R2 values above 0.998. The limits of detection for these analytes in oral fluid and urine are
ollection of finger sweat is explored here as a rapid and convenient way of monitoring patient adherence to antipsychotic drugs. Finger sweat samples (n = 426) collected from patients receiving treatment with clozapine, quetiapine and olanzapine were analysed by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry, including a subgroup of patients with paired plasma samples. Finger sweat samples were also analysed from a negative control group and patients who had handled antipsychotic medication only. The finger sweat test (based on the detection of parent drug in one donated sample) was 100% effective in monitoring adherence within commonly prescribed dosing ranges. In comparison to participants who handled the medication only, the test could distinguish between contact and administration through monitoring of the drug metabolite, or the level of parent drug. Additionally, in a subgroup of patients prescribed clozapine, a statistically significant correlation was observed between the mass of parent drug in finger sweat and plasma concentration. The finger sweat technology shows promise as a dignified, noninvasive method to monitor treatment adherence in patients taking antipsychotics.
Direct analyte probed nanoextraction (DAPNe) is a technique that allows extraction of drug and endogenous compounds from a discrete location on a tissue sample using a nano capillary filled with solvent. Samples can be extracted from a spot diameters as low as 6 µm. Studies previously undertaken by our group have shown that the technique can provide good precision (5%) for analysing drug molecules in 150 µm diameter areas of homogenised tissue, provided an internal standard is sprayed on to the tissue prior to analysis. However, without an isotopically labelled standard, the repeatability is poor, even after normalisation to and the spot area or matrix compounds. By application to tissue homogenates spiked with drug compounds, we can demonstrate that it is possible to significantly improve the repeatability of the technique by incorporating a liquid chromatography separation step. Liquid chromatography is a technique for separating compounds prior to mass spectrometry (LC-MS) which enables separation of isomeric compounds that cannot be discriminated using mass spectrometry alone, as well as reducing matrix interferences. Conventionally, LC-MS is carried out on bulk or homogenised samples, which means analysis is essentially an average of the sample and does not take into account discrete areas. This work opens a new opportunity for spatially resolved liquid chromatography mass spectrometry with precision better than 20%.
The use of synthetic stimulants, including designer cathinones, remains a significant concern worldwide. Thus, the detection and identification of synthetic cathinones in biological matrices is of paramount importance for clinical and forensic laboratories. In this study, distribution of mephedrone and its metabolites was investigated in fingerprints. Following a controlled human mephedrone administration (100 mg nasally insufflated), two mass spectrometry-based methods for fingerprint analysis have been evaluated. The samples deposited on triangular pieces of chromatography paper were directly analysed under ambient conditions by paper spray-mass spectrometry (PS-MS) while those deposited on glass cover slips were extracted and analysed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The LC-MS/MS method was 5–6 times more sensitive than PS-MS but required sample preparation and longer analysis time. Mephedrone was detected in 62% and in 38% of all post-administration samples analysed by LC-MS/MS and PS-MS, respectively. Nor-mephedrone was the only metabolite detected in 3.8% of all samples analysed by LC-MS/MS. A large inter- and intra-subject variation was observed for mephedrone which may be due to several factors, such as the applied finger pressure, angle and duration of contact with the deposition surface and inability to control the ‘amount’ of collected fingerprint deposits. Until these limitations are addressed, we suggest that the sole use of fingerprints can be a useful diagnostic tool in qualitative rather than quantitative analysis, and requires a confirmatory analysis in a different biological matrix.
The finding that drugs and metabolites can be detected from fingerprints is of potential relevance to forensic science and as well as toxicology and clinical testing. However, discriminating between dermal contact and ingestion of drugs has never been verified experimentally. The inability to interpret the result of finding a drug or metabolite in a fingerprint has prevented widespread adoption of fingerprints in drug testing and limits the probative value of detecting drugs in fingermarks. A commonly held belief is that the detection of metabolites of drugs of abuse in fingerprints can be used to confirm a drug has been ingested. However, we show here that cocaine and its primary metabolite, benzoylecgonine, can be detected in fingerprints of non-drug users after contact with cocaine. Additionally, cocaine was found to persist above environmental levels for up to 48 hours after contact. Therefore the detection of cocaine and benzoylecgonine (BZE) in fingermarks can be forensically significant, but do not demonstrate that a person has ingested the substance. In contrast, the data here shows that a drug test from a fingerprint (where hands can be washed prior to donating a sample) CAN distinguish between contact and ingestion of cocaine. If hands were washed prior to giving a fingerprint, BZE was detected only after the administration of cocaine. Therefore BZE can be used to distinguish cocaine contact from cocaine ingestion, provided donors wash their hands prior to sampling. A test based on the detection of BZE in at least one of two donated fingerprint samples has accuracy 95%, sensitivity 90% and specificity of 100% (n = 86).
BACKGROUND: Recent publications have explored the possibility of using fingerprints to confirm drug use, but none has yet dealt with environmental contamination from fingertips. Here we explored the possibility of establishing an environmental cutoff for drug testing from a single fingerprint. METHODS: Fingerprint samples (n=100) were collected from the hands of 50 nondrug users before and after handwashing to establish separate environmental cutoff values and testing protocols for cocaine, benzoylecgonine, heroin, and 6-monoacetylmorphine. The cutoff was challenged by testing the fingerprints of drug-free volunteers after shaking hands with drug users. Fingerprints from patients who testified to taking cocaine (n = 32) and heroin (n = 24) were also collected and analyzed. RESULTS: A different cutoff value needed to be applied, depending on whether the fingerprints were collected as presented or after handwashing. Applying these cutoffs gave a 0%false-positive rate from the drug-free volunteers. After application of the cutoff, the detection rate (compared to patient testimony) for washed hands of patients was 87.5% for cocaine use and 100% for heroin use. CONCLUSIONS: Fingerprints show enhanced levels of cocaine, heroin, and their respective metabolites in patients who testified to taking the substances, compared with the population of naı¨ve drug users surveyed, and a cutoff (decision level) can be established. The cutoff is robust enough to account for small increases in analyte observed after secondary transfer.
The use of a low aerosol dispersion ablation chamber within a LA-ICP-MS set up allows for high-resolution, high-speed imaging of the distribution of elements within a sample. Here we show how this enhanced capability creates new analytical problems and solutions. We report the distribution of platinum at the cellular level in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) explant models after treatment with clinically relevant doses of cisplatin. This revealed for the first time a correlation between the platinum signal and the presence of carbon deposits within lung tissue. We show how complementary ion beam analysis techniques, particle induced X-ray emission (PIXE) and elastic backscattering spectrometry (EBS) can be used to explore potential matrix effects in LA-ICP-MS data. For these samples, it was confirmed that the enhancement was unlikely to have resulted from a matrix effect alone. Thus, the presence of carbon deposits within tissue has potential implications for the effective distribution of the cisplatin drug.
BACKGROUND: Paper spray mass spectrometry6 is a technique that has recently emerged and has shown excellent analytical sensitivity to a number of drugs in blood. As an alternative to blood, fingerprints have been shown to provide a noninvasive and traceable sampling matrix. Our goal was to validate the use of fingerprint samples to detect cocaine use. METHODS: Samples were collected on triangular pieces (168 mm2) of washed Whatman Grade I chromatography paper. Following application of internal standard, spray solvent and a voltage were applied to the paper before mass spectrometry detection. A fingerprint visualization step was incorporated into the analysis procedure by addition of silver nitrate solution and exposing the sample to ultraviolet light. RESULTS: Limits of detection for cocaine, benzoylecgonine, and methylecgonine were 1, 2, and 31 ng/mL respectively, with relative standard deviations of less than 33%. No matrix effects were observed. Analysis of 239 fingerprint samples yielded a 99% true-positive rate and a 2.5% false-positive rate, based on the detection of cocaine, benzoylecgonine, or methylecgonine with use of a single fingerprint. CONCLUSIONS: The method offers a qualitative and noninvasive screening test for cocaine use. The analysis method developed is rapid (4 min/sample) and requires no sample preparation.
Direct analyte-probed nano-extraction (DAPNe) is a method of extracting material from a microscale region of a sample and provides the opportunity for detailed mass spectrometry analysis of extracted analytes from a small area. The technique has been shown to provide enhanced sensitivity compared with bulk analysis by selectively removing analytes from their matrix and has been applied for selective analysis of single cells and even single organelles. However, the quantitative capabilities of the technique are yet to be fully evaluated. In this study, various normalisation techniques were investigated in order to improve the quantitative capabilities of the technique. Two methods of internal standard incorporation were applied to test substrates, which were designed to replicate biological sample matrices. Additionally, normalisation to the extraction spot area and matrix compounds were investigated for suitability in situations when an internal standard is not available. The variability observed can be significantly reduced by using a sprayed internal standard, and in some cases, by normalising to the extracted area.
The radical ring-opening polymerization (RROP) of thionolactones provides access to thioester backbone-functional copolymers but has, to date, only been demonstrated on acrylic copolymers. Herein, the thionolactone dibenzo[c,e]oxepane-5-thione (DOT) was subjected to azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN)-initiated free-radical homopolymerization, which produced a thioester-functional homopolymer with a glass-transition temperature of 95 °C and the ability to degrade exclusively into predetermined small molecules. However, the homopolymerization was impractically slow and precluded the introduction of functionality. Conversely, the reversible addition–fragmentation chain-transfer (RAFT)-mediated copolymerization of DOT with N-methylmaleimide (MeMI), N-phenylmaleimide (PhMI), and N-2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorophenylmaleimide (PFPMI) rapidly produced well-defined copolymers with the tendency to form alternating sequences increasing in the order MeMI ≪ PhMI < PFPMI, with estimated reactivity ratios of rDOT = 0.198 and rPFPMI = 0.0078 for the latter system. Interestingly, defects in the alternating structure were more likely caused by (degradable) DOT–DOT sequences rather than (nondegradable) MI–MI sequences, which was confirmed through the paper spray mass spectrometric analysis of the products from aminolytic degradation. Upon the aminolysis of backbone thioesters, maleimide repeating units were ring-opened, forming bisamide structures. Conversely, copolymer degradation through a thiolate did not result in imide substitution but nucleophilic para-fluoro substitution on PFPMI comonomer units, indicating the ability of DOT–MI copolymers to degrade under different conditions and to form differently functional products. The RROP of thionolactones has distinct advantages over the RROP of cyclic ketene acetals and is anticipated to find use in the development of well-defined degradable polymer materials.
Fingerprints have been proposed as a promising new matrix for drug testing. In previous work it has been shown that a fingerprint can be used to distinguish between drug users and non-users. Herein, we look at the possibility of using a fingerprint to distinguish between dermal contact and administration of heroin. Fingerprint samples were collected from (a) 10 patients attending a drug rehabilitation clinic (b) 50 non-drug users (c) participants who touched 2 mg street heroin, before and after various hand cleaning procedures. Oral fluid was also taken from the patients. All samples were analysed using a liquid chromatography – high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) method validated in previous work for heroin and 6-AM. The HRMS data was analysed retrospectively for morphine, codeine, 6-acetylcodeine and noscapine. Heroin and 6-AM were detected in all fingerprint samples produced from contact with heroin, even after handwashing. In contrast, morphine, acetylcodeine and noscapine were successfully removed after handwashing. In patient samples, the detection of morphine, noscapine and acetylcodeine (alongside heroin and 6-AM) gave a closer agreement to patient testimony on whether they had recently used heroin use than the detection of heroin and 6-AM alone. This research highlights the importance of washing hands prior to donating a fingerprint sample to distinguish recent contact with heroin from heroin use.
RATIONALE: Paper spray offers a rapid screening test without the need for sample preparation. The incomplete extraction of paper spray allows for further testing using more robust, selective and sensitive techniques such as liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Here we develop a two-step process of paper spray followed by LC-MS to (1) rapidly screen a large number of samples and (2) confirm any disputed results. This demonstrates the applicability for testing medication adherence from a fingerprint. METHODS: Following paper spray analysis, drugs of abuse samples were analysed using LC-MS. All analyses were completed using a Q Exactive™ Plus Orbitrap™ mass spectrometer. This two-step procedure was applied to fingerprints collected from patients on a maintained dose of the antipsychotic drug quetiapine. RESULTS: The extraction efficiency of paper spray for two drugs of abuse and metabolites was found to be between 15-35% (analyte dependent). For short acquisition times, the extraction efficiency was found to vary between replicates by less than 30%, enabling subsequent analysis by LC-MS. This two-step process was then applied to fingerprints collected from two patients taking the antipsychotic drug quetiapine, which demonstrates how a negative screening result from paper spray can be resolved using LC-MS. CONCLUSIONS: We have shown for the first time the sequential analysis of the same sample using paper spray and LC-MS, as well as the detection of an antipsychotic drug from a fingerprint. We propose that this workflow may also be applied to any type of sample compatible with paper spray, and will be especially convenient where only one sample is available for analysis.
Elemental and molecular imaging play a crucial role in understanding disease pathogenesis. To accurately correlate elemental and molecular markers, it is desirable to perform sequential elemental and molecular imaging on a single tissue section. However, very little is known about the impact of performing these measurements in sequence. In this work, we highlight some of the challenges and successes associated with performing elemental mapping in sequence with mass spectrometry imaging. Specifically, the feasibility of molecular mapping using the mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) techniques matrix assisted laser desorption ionisation (MALDI) and desorption electrospray ionisation (DESI) in sequence with the elemental mapping technique particle induced X-ray emission (PIXE) is explored. Challenges for integration include substrate compatibility, as well as delocalisation and spectral changes. We demonstrate that whilst sequential imaging comes with some compromises, sequential DESI-PIXE imaging is sufficient to correlate sulphur, iron and lipid markers in a single tissue section at the 50-micrometre scale.
Abstract The majority of metabolomics studies to date have utilised blood serum or plasma, biofluids that do not necessarily address the full range of patient pathologies. Here, correlations between serum metabolites, salivary metabolites and sebum lipids are studied for the first time. 83 COVID-19 positive and negative hospitalised participants provided blood serum alongside saliva and sebum samples for analysis by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. Widespread alterations to serum-sebum lipid relationships were observed in COVID-19 positive participants versus negative controls. There was also a marked correlation between sebum lipids and the immunostimulatory hormone dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate in the COVID-19 positive cohort. The biofluids analysed herein were also compared in terms of their ability to differentiate COVID-19 positive participants from controls; serum performed best by multivariate analysis (sensitivity and specificity of 0.97), with the dominant changes in triglyceride and bile acid levels, concordant with other studies identifying dyslipidemia as a hallmark of COVID-19 infection. Sebum performed well (sensitivity 0.92; specificity 0.84), with saliva performing worst (sensitivity 0.78; specificity 0.83). These findings show that alterations to skin lipid profiles coincide with dyslipidaemia in serum. The work also signposts the potential for integrated biofluid analyses to provide insight into the whole-body atlas of pathophysiological conditions.
Porphyry-type deposits are the world’s main source of copper and molybdenum and provide a large proportion of gold and other metals. However, the mechanism by which mineralising fluids are extracted from source magmas and transported upwards into the ore-forming environment is not clearly understood. Here we use field, micro-textural and geochemical techniques to investigate field relationships and samples from a circa 8 km deep cross-section through the archetypal Yerington porphyry district, Nevada. We identify an interconnected network of relatively low-temperature hydrothermal quartz that is connected to mineralised miarolitic cavities within aplite dykes. We propose that porphyry-deposit-forming fluids migrated from evolved, more water-rich internal regions of the underlying Luhr Hill granite via these aplite dykes which contained a permeable magmatic crystal mush of feldspar and quartz. The textures we describe provide petrographic evidence for the transport of fluids through crystal mush dykes. We suggest that this process should be considered in future models for the formation of porphyry- and similar-type deposits.
The processes routinely used by police forces to visualise fingermarks in casework may not provide sufficient ridge pattern quality to aid an investigation. Time of Flight-Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) has been proposed as a technique to enhance fingermark recovery. The technique is currently designated a Category C process in the Fingermark Visualisation Manual (FVM) as it shows potential for effective fingermark visualisation but has not yet been fully evaluated. Here the sensitivity of ToF-SIMS on three common exhibit-type surfaces - paper, polyethylene and stainless-steel was compared to standard processes. An adapted Home Office grading scale was used to evaluate the efficacy of fingerprint development by ToF-SIMS and to provide a framework for comparison with standard processes. ToF-SIMS was shown to visualise more fingerprints than the respective standard process, for all surfaces tested. In addition, ToF-SIMS was applied after the standard processes and successfully enhanced the fingerprint detail, even when the standard process failed to visualise ridge detail. This demonstrates the benefit for incorporating it into current operational fingermark development workflows. Multivariate analysis (MVA), using simsMVA, was additionally explored as a method to simplify the data analysis and image generation process.
The rapid emergence of antibiotic resistant bacterial pathogens constitutes a critical problem in healthcare and requires the development of novel treatments. Potential strategies include the exploitation of microbial social interactions based on public goods, which are produced at a fitness cost by cooperative microorganisms, but can be exploited by cheaters that do not produce these goods. Cheater invasion has been proposed as a 'Trojan horse' approach to infiltrate pathogen populations with strains deploying built-in weaknesses (e.g., sensitiveness to antibiotics). However, previous attempts have been often unsuccessful because population invasion by cheaters was prevented by various mechanisms including the presence of spatial structure (e.g., growth in biofilms), which limits the diffusion and exploitation of public goods. Here we followed an alternative approach and examined whether the manipulation of public good uptake and not its production could result in potential 'Trojan horses' suitable for population invasion. We focused on the siderophore pyoverdine produced by the human pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa MPAO1 and manipulated its uptake by deleting and/or overexpressing the pyoverdine primary (FpvA) and secondary (FpvB) receptors. We found that receptor synthesis feeds back on pyoverdine production and uptake rates, which led to strains with altered pyoverdine-associated costs and benefits. Moreover, we found that the receptor FpvB was advantageous under iron-limited conditions but revealed hidden costs in the presence of an antibiotic stressor (gentamicin). As a consequence, FpvB mutants became the fittest strain under gentamicin exposure, displacing the wildtype in liquid cultures, and in biofilms and during infections of the wax moth larvae Galleria mellonella, which both represent structured environments. Our findings reveal that an evolutionary trade-off associated with the costs and benefits of a versatile pyoverdine uptake strategy can be harnessed for devising a Trojan-horse candidate for medical interventions.


«Kazakh Invest» held a series of meetings with the British and Irish state agencies
Deputy Chairman of the Board of «Kazakh Invest», Rustam Issatayev discussed investment cooperation with representatives of state agencies of Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland.
In London, Rustam Issatayev met with the representative of the Department for International Trade Andrew Keir. This organization is the government department of the UK responsible for concluding and expanding trade agreements between the United Kingdom and non-EU countries. The parties discussed the possibilities of joint implementation of investment projects in the territory of Kazakhstan.
Besides, a meeting was held with the leadership of UK Export Finance, which provides state support to exporters and investors by providing insurance and guarantees for banks. The issues of attracting funding through the UKEF were discussed at the meeting.
Also, there were consultations and exchange of experience on attracting investments with «IDA Ireland» Irish state agency in Dublin. Formed in 1949, IDA has 28 offices on all continents of the world, engaged in attracting foreign investment in Ireland.
It is worth noting that these meetings were organized in preparation for Kazakhstan Global Investment Forum, which will be held on October 2, 2018 in London. The forum will bring together more than 150 leaders of the largest companies of the region.


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Sicicla Bike MTB Rental offers an exhilarating way to explore the stunning landscapes of Palermo, Sicily. With a Trek alloy mountain bike, travelers can set off directly from the city and discover the wonders of northern Sicily at their own pace.
Whether you choose to explore the scenic Capo Gallo to the north or the captivating Capo Zafferano to the south, you are guaranteed breathtaking views and unforgettable moments.
Spice up your visit to Palermo with Sicicla Bike MTB Rental and embark on an adrenaline-filled adventure.
- Sicicla Bike MTB Rental offers the opportunity to explore Palermo and its surrounding areas in a fun and adventurous way.
- Renting a mountain bike allows you to enjoy nature and appreciate the stunning landscapes at your own pace.
- The best time to visit Palermo for biking is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and tourist crowds are smaller.
- Must-visit locations for mountain biking in northern Sicily include Capo Gallo and Capo Zafferano, which offer breathtaking views and routes suitable for all skill levels.
Benefits of Renting a MTB in Palermo
Renting a MTB in Palermo offers travelers the opportunity to explore the city and its surrounding areas in a fun and adventurous way. There are several advantages to mountain biking in Palermo.
Firstly, the city is surrounded by lush hills and scenic coastline, providing breathtaking views and diverse terrain for riders to enjoy. Plus, renting a mountain bike allows travelers to set off directly from the city and discover the beauty of northern Sicily at their own pace.
There are also recommended trails and routes in the area that cater to different skill levels, ensuring that everyone can find a suitable adventure. From exploring Capo Gallo to the north, to cycling through the rolling inland countryside, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while mountain biking in Palermo.
Exploring the Scenic Surroundings of Palermo on Two Wheels
With a Trek alloy mountain bike from Sicicla Bike MTB Rental, travelers can explore the scenic surroundings of Palermo on two wheels. Here are three reasons why biking in Palermo is a must:
Enjoy nature: Biking allows you to fully appreciate the stunning landscapes that surround Palermo. From the rolling countryside to the picturesque coastline, you can experience the beauty of northern Sicily up close and personal.
Flexibility and freedom: With a bike, you have the freedom to choose your own route and explore at your own pace. Whether you want to visit Capo Gallo to the north or Capo Zafferano to the south, the choice is yours. Plus, you can easily stop and take in the breathtaking views whenever you please.
Best time to visit: The ideal time to visit Palermo for biking is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the tourist crowds are smaller. This allows you to enjoy the benefits of biking in Palermo without the heat of the summer or the peak season rush.
Itinerary Ideas for Your MTB Adventure in Northern Sicily
Embark on an unforgettable MTB adventure in northern Sicily and explore the stunning landscapes and trails that await.
While Palermo offers a variety of MTB trails, there are also many recommended bike routes in the surrounding areas that showcase the beauty of northern Sicily.
One popular option is to explore the Capo Gallo Nature Reserve to the north of Palermo. Here, you can ride along the rugged coastline, taking in breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Another recommended route is the Capo Zafferano trail, which will lead you south of Palermo along the picturesque coastline.
For those seeking a more inland adventure, the rolling countryside offers a peaceful and scenic ride.
Whatever route you choose, you’re sure to be captivated by the natural beauty of northern Sicily.
Must-Visit Locations: Capo Gallo and Capo Zafferano
Capo Gallo and Capo Zafferano offer stunning coastal views and are must-visit locations for anyone exploring northern Sicily by bike. Here are three reasons why these locations should be on your itinerary:
Breathtaking Views: Both Capo Gallo and Capo Zafferano boast picturesque coastal landscapes that will leave you in awe. From rugged cliffs to crystal-clear waters, the views are simply breathtaking.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to explore these locations is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer. This allows you to fully enjoy the natural beauty without feeling overwhelmed.
Difficulty Level: While both locations offer some challenging terrains, there are also routes suitable for all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cyclist, you can find a path that suits your abilities and enjoy the scenic ride.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the beauty of Capo Gallo and Capo Zafferano on your biking adventure in northern Sicily.
Cycling Through the Beautiful Inland Countryside
The cyclists can explore the beautiful inland countryside of northern Sicily during their bike ride. With its rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, the inland countryside offers a unique and immersive cycling experience.
There are several cycling routes to choose from, catering to different levels of difficulty and preferences. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cyclist, you can find a route that suits you.
To start your adventure, you can rent a high-quality mountain bike from one of the many bike rental shops in the area. These shops offer a range of bikes to suit different needs and budgets.
Real Traveler Experiences: Photos and Reviews
Many travelers have shared their memorable experiences and positive reviews of Sicicla Bike MTB Rental, providing a glimpse into the incredible adventures and breathtaking scenery they encountered.
Here are three reasons why biking in Palermo with Sicicla is a must-do:
Explore the Stunning Landscapes: Biking through Palermo allows you to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding hills and coastline. From the rolling inland countryside to the picturesque Capo Gallo and Capo Zafferano, every pedal stroke offers a new and awe-inspiring view.
Experience the Benefits of Biking: Not only is biking a fun and adventurous way to explore, but it also offers numerous health benefits. Enjoy the fresh air, get your heart pumping, and soak up the Vitamin D as you navigate the scenic trails and pathways.
Tips for a Successful MTB Adventure: When renting a mountain bike from Sicicla, you can expect top-notch service. The friendly owner provides maps, recommended itineraries, and helpful tips to ensure you have a successful and enjoyable biking experience.
Pricing and Booking Information for Sicicla Bike MTB Rental
Prices start at just £22.11, and booking information for Sicicla Bike MTB Rental can be easily accessed on their website.
Renting a mountain bike in Palermo offers several benefits. With a Trek alloy mountain bike, travelers can explore the lush hills and scenic coastline that surround the city. Set off directly from Palermo and discover the beauty of northern Sicily at your own pace.
When you pick up your bike, you’ll receive tips for itineraries and routes, ensuring a memorable biking experience. Some recommended biking trails in Palermo include Capo Gallo to the north and Capo Zafferano to the south. You can also enjoy the rolling inland countryside during your bike ride.
Don’t miss the opportunity to discover Palermo’s stunning landscapes on two wheels!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Is the Average Bike Rental Period at Sicicla Bike MTB Rental?
The average bike rental period at Sicicla Bike MTB Rental varies depending on the customer’s needs. It is best to contact the rental company directly to inquire about the specific rental duration.
Are Helmets Provided With the Bike Rental?
Yes, helmets are provided with the bike rental. Wearing helmets while cycling has many benefits, including protecting the head from injuries. When mountain biking, it’s important to choose the right helmet for maximum safety.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Renting a Mountain Bike at Sicicla Bike MTB Rental?
There is no minimum age requirement for renting a mountain bike at Sicicla Bike MTB Rental. They offer a range of bike sizes for all ages. The average rental cost varies depending on the duration of the rental.
Can I Rent a Bike at Sicicla Bike MTB Rental Without Prior Reservation?
Yes, you can rent a bike at Sicicla Bike MTB Rental without prior reservation. However, it is recommended to reserve in advance to ensure bike rental availability and to enjoy the benefits of a smoother rental process.
Are There Any Restrictions on Where I Can Take the Rented Mountain Bike in Palermo?
There are no restrictions on where you can take the rented mountain bike in Palermo. The staff at Sicicla Bike MTB Rental will provide recommendations for bike trails and ensure you have a great riding experience.
The Sum Up
To sum it up, Sicicla Bike MTB Rental offers an exciting and immersive way to explore the stunning landscapes of Palermo, Sicily. With a Trek alloy mountain bike, travelers can embark on their own adventure and discover the wonders of northern Sicily at their own pace. Whether you choose to explore the scenic Capo Gallo or the captivating Capo Zafferano, breathtaking views and unforgettable moments are guaranteed. So why not spice up your visit to Palermo and experience the adrenaline, nature, and exploration that Sicicla Bike MTB Rental has to offer?
If you’re craving more cycling adventures, you can also check out some other amazing cycle tours and experiences around the world. For a complete tour of Cracow, you can visit the Cycle Trip website. If you’re interested in a cultural cycling tour, the half-day tour is a great option. For a unique cycling experience in Hvar, be sure to try the Cycle Hvar Tour. And if you’re up for a thrilling adventure, the Maui Bombers offer an exciting cycle to the sea.
These cycle tours and experiences will surely add more excitement and variety to your travel itinerary. So why not make the most out of your trip and explore different destinations with the help of these amazing bike tours? Book your next adventure now and create unforgettable memories.

domain: geography


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If California’s statewide primary election feels a little, well, meh in this homestretch of the voting season, you’re not alone.
With only days left for candidates to make their case to voters, most Californians hardly seem to have noticed Tuesday’s contest to winnow the field of state, congressional and legislative candidates down to two finalists. It’s especially noticeable given that there are more opportunities to participate than in any other primary election in the state’s history.
In tracking the return of mail-in ballots, it appears that even a last-minute surge of interest might not keep the June 7 election from landing near the historical low point of voter turnout — in competition with 2014 for the lowest turnout of registered voters in California history.
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The conventional explanation among many political watchers for the anemic response from California voters is that there just aren’t any exciting races on the June 7 ballot.
But that doesn’t square up with the data, even from places with big contests up for grabs. In Los Angeles, home to a fiercely contested race for mayor, only about 9% of ballots had been returned as the week comes to a close. The numbers are slightly higher in San Francisco — 16% of ballots returned — as voters there are being asked whether to recall Dist. Atty. Chesa Boudin.
Early turnout has been weak, too, in the most competitive congressional races in California. District data largely track with what’s being seen on the statewide level, with a slightly better rate of ballot return in the Southern California race featuring incumbent Democratic Rep. Mike Levin and in a new Northern California district dominated by Republicans such as Assemblymember Kevin Kiley and Sacramento Sheriff Scott Jones.
Perhaps the reason for low turnout isn’t apathy but, rather, uncertainty.
“I think this is an incredibly difficult ballot,” said Kim Alexander, president of the nonpartisan California Voter Foundation. “It’s easy to fill out a ballot, but to make informed choices is a lot of work.”
Voters have been given a lot of ways to cast ballots — at home, in person, before election day, up until the last minute before polls close — but California lawmakers haven’t been as dedicated to providing the funding needed for more voter outreach and education.
“Our lawmakers love to talk about how we don’t put up the barriers to voting that other states do,” Alexander said. “But we’re also not inviting people to participate in the way that we need to.”
Campaigns certainly don’t provide consistent information. In fact, political organizations often based their efforts on whether a voter participated in the last election. Voters who might not participate, in those cases, don’t hear from the campaigns and then don’t participate this time around. And the cycle keeps repeating itself.
Keep an eye on an effort in this month’s state budget negotiations to boost funding for voter awareness efforts that are run by local elections officials. Supporters believe it’s a key step toward actually getting people to cast the ballots that, at least in this election, seem to be languishing in piles of mail and on kitchen tables across the state. (Full Story)

domain: sociology


Chagaev, Browne hit the scales in Grozny, challenger slightly heavier
Ruslan Chagaev and Lucas Browne made weight on Friday ahead of their WBA heavyweight title clash on Saturday night in Grozny.
The pair are ready to lock horns at the Colosseum Sport Hall with Chagaev scaling 248.5lbs and Browne coming in slightly heavier at 249.
Chagaev, 37, makes another mandatory defence of his title following on from his first round knockout of Francesco Pianeta last July.
Prior to that, the ‘White Tyson’ spent twelve months out of action after defeating Fres Oquendo to claim the belt via majority decision.
Challenger Browne brings a big threat to Chagaev’s reign as the 36 year-old is undefeated in 23 contests and has a KO ratio of 87%.


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Ruben Rochina may have to settle for a place on the bench at MK Dons in the Capital One Cup as he steps up his recovery from a hamstring tear.
- Related Content
Rovers' Spanish playmaker made his first appearance of the season as a second-half substitute in the 2-1 win against Leicester on Saturday and he was instrumental in setting up Morten Gamst Pedersen's winner.
Pedersen is in line for his second consecutive start alongside Nuno Gomes - who scored the opener on Saturday - with manager Steve Kean praising the efforts of both against the Foxes.
Gomes' claim for a starting spot is likely to hinge on the availability of Colin Kazim-Richards, who remains a doubt with a knee complaint which kept him out of action at the weekend.
Leon Best (knee) is a long-term absentee.
MK Dons' disciplinary woes continue as they are without three players through suspension.
Dean Lewington became the fourth Dons player in as many games to receive his marching orders at the weekend.
Lewington starts his three-match ban, while Alan Smith serves the second game of his suspension.
Antony Kay completes a three-game ban but Stephen Gleeson is back from his suspension and is expected to return to the midfield with Daniel Powell or Luke Chadwick dropping to the bench.
Shaun Williams could make his first start since the Capital One Cup first-round defeat of Cheltenham after he completed 48 minutes at the weekend following his return from an ankle injury.

domain: news


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Country Music: The Masters
Edited By: Marty Stuart
On November 18, 2008 we launched the first of our enhanced digital books. These are innovative digital products that allow the reader an immersion experience in the book—a digital book that delivers an enhanced reader experience, a book that integrates audio, video, and images into the text and creates for the reader a greater theater of the mind.
Our first title was Country Music: The Masters—a photographic love letter to the founders and legends of country music by four time Grammy winner, master musician and storyteller Marty Stuart.
On November 14th, 2008 the p-book (physical book) went on sale. Here is a description of that version of Country Music: The Masters:
On November 18th, 2008 we launched the digital version of Country Music: The Masters, which integrates and expands the experience. The book will have:
Images from Country Music: The Masters. Click on any image to view larger version:
King of the Road
About the Author
Marty Stuart has scored six top-ten hits, one platinum and five gold albums, and four Grammy Awards. He has collaborated with artists ranging from Lester Flatt to Bob Dylan. Stuart has delivered impressive work as a photographer, writer, and collector, and hosts “Marty Stuart’s American Odyssey” on XM radio.
Sourcebooks and its Sourcebooks MediaFusion imprint pioneered a new form of print book in 1998 with We Interrupt This Broadcast, the first book to truly integrate audio content with the printed work. With tracks on accompanying compact discs, the audio, text, and photos were intended to work together, rather than being supplemental or merely complimentary.
The full, true experience of the book was only obtained by using both media--and it was a goosebump-inducing, New York Times bestselling experience at that. Since then, Sourcebooks has innovated numerous mixed-media projects in the areas of poetry,

domain: library


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Cape Girardeau County health officials confirm second positive case of COVID-19
The Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center has confirmed the second positive case of COVID-19, which was reported by a commercial laboratory in Cape Girardeau County. The individual is a male in his 40ís and is in isolation. Public health officials are investigating the situation and tracing any close contacts to the case. The method of transmission is likely travel related. The case will continue to be monitored by the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center.
We would like to remind everyone that the number of cases we see in our community can be reduced significantly by adhering to public health recommendations such as, social distancing, washing hands, and staying home when ill.
Residents with questions about COVID-19 or any individual with symptoms should call the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Servicesí 24-hour hotline at 1-877-435-8411, their private provider or call the St. Francis Nursesí Hotline at (573)331-4200 to discuss the possibility of testing.
Due to increased testing capabilities reporting on individual cases will become difficult. Therefore, going forward, Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center will release the total reported case in Cape Girardeau County at 4:30 PM each day through a news release, social media, and our website.

domain: medical


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If you’ve been alive for more than a second, you’ll know that the most famous actors are in more than just one of your favorite movies. Although some of the most successful men in Hollywood can get by playing the same character in every movie, some work hard to perfect their craft and really become the person they are portraying on the silver screen.
We have a list of 50 of the best actors in Hollywood. We’ll name off three movies that they’ve appeared in, and you can see if you know which actor we’re thinking about. You’d be surprised by just how many actors are in the same movies together! Do you think you can pass this quiz? There's only one way to find out!

domain: artistic


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The Hong Kong Federation of Insurers (HKFI) released a circular on 22 April 2013 introducing new measures to enhance disclosure relating to the sale of investment-linked assurance schemes (ILAS) products.
The new measures require all insurance companies selling ILAS products to provide the policy holders an “Important Facts Statement” (IFS) which highlights various important facts about the ILAS product. It is noted that the IFS specifically includes a statement explaining that the intermediary will receive remuneration from the insurer which may be borne out of the charges the policy holder pay and policy holders are encouraged to consult their intermediary regarding its remuneration.
In this connection, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) also released a circular on the same day requiring authorised institutions (e.g. banks) to make pre-sale disclosure in writing of monetary and non-monetary benefits receivable by an authorised institution and/or any of its associates from the insurer in connection with the distribution of the ILAS product to policy holders. In particular, authorised institutions that distribute ILAS products for insurance companies within their group are required to ensure that the level of remuneration the institutions receive from their group insurance companies from the distribution of ILAS products should be determined on arm’s length basis and be commercially justifiable.
The measures introduced by the HKFI and the HKMA must be implemented by the insurance companies and the authorised institutions respectively by 30 June 2013.
Details of the circulars can be found at: http://www.hkfi.org.hk/pdf_publications/ILAS_requirements_20130630.pdf and http://www.hkma.gov.hk/media/eng/doc/key-information/guidelines-and-circular/2013/20130422e1.pdf
Source: HKMA and HKFI

domain: finance


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R-22 Refrigeration (Freon) Price Increase
As you may know R-22 is a refrigerant that is being phased out due to its harmful effects on the ozone. It is being replaced by R-410a which is an environmentally friendly non-ozone depleting refrigerant.
Since the EPA has mandated a phase-out of R-22, production has been reduced by over 75% and will continue to decrease. What does this mean for you as the consumer? Due to the depleted stocks of R-22 and increased demand the price has gone up astronomically.
This is the time to seriously consider upgrading your system especially if your coil is leaking. Adding R-22 to “charge” the system is no longer a cost effective approach.

domain: economics


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The World Eleven side will play three T20 games on September 12, 13 and 15 in Lahore after holding a two-day camp in Dubai.
The World XI for the Independence Cup is: Faf du Plessis (captain) (South Africa), Hashim Amla (South Africa), Samuel Badree (Windies), George Bailey (Australia), Paul Collingwood (England), Ben Cutting (Australia), Grant Elliott (New Zealand), Tamim Iqbal (Bangladesh), David Miller (South Africa), Morne Morkel (South Africa), Tim Paine (wicketkeeper) (Australia), Thisara Perera (Sri Lanka), Imran Tahir (South Africa) and Darren Sammy (Windies).
"The team has been selected keeping in mind the conditions and the recent performances of some players in the domestic and worldwide tours", said chief selector Inzamam ul Haq. Du Plessis said he had played "very exciting" matches against Pakistan in the past, but this would be his first match before a home crowd.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Friday named a 16-man squad for the Independence Cup in September, which will see a visiting World XI take on the host team in three T20Is in Lahore.
"This will be an auspicious moment for Pakistan cricket and I am positive that it will serve to open the doors of worldwide cricket in Pakistan".
"Recently, we successfully organized the final of the PSL's second edition in Lahore, which proved to be a catalyst in gaining the confidence of the worldwide community to come and play here". While Faheem Ashraf was retained after his impressive show during Pakistan's crucial win against Sri Lanka in the ICC Champions Trohy, 2017.
"I am delighted that Pakistan will be hosting a high- profile series, which features several top global cricketers from a number of ICC Members. The rehabilitation of my injured shoulder is progressing well and I am confident of being fit for the matches".
"The PCB's plans for the tour will include comprehensive security arrangements for the safety and security of the players, officials, media and spectators".
"We now look forward to playing some exciting cricket so that we can entertain the Lahore crowd, which has waited long enough to see local as well as worldwide stars live in action in their backyard".
"It (World XI) is great combination of players and we will be delighted to welcome them in Pakistan as global cricket is returning here after nine years since 2009", he said. "I am confident that following the success of these matches, Pakistan will not only host regular worldwide series but at other global cricket centres as well", he said.


20 years ago, I had to develop a new programming language, a new in-memory database, my own load- balancing tech and manage all the hardware, operating systems and databases. All this just to get started. It took 4 people 6 months just to tool up.
All of that got handled last night in 3 hours..
Remind me again how it’s too expensive to build a product?


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United States interest in post-Cold War Latin America and the Caribbean hearing before the Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere Affairs of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, House of Representatives, One Hundred Second Congress, first session, February 19, 1991.
|Main Author:||United States. Congress. House. Committee on Foreign Affairs. Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere Affairs.|
U.S. G.P.O. : For sale by the Supt. of Docs., Congressional Sales Office, U.S. G.P.O.,
iii, 82 pages ; 24 cm.


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In honor of National Career and Technical Education Month, the City of Springfield will present Ozarks Technical Community College with an official proclamation recognizing the College for its leadership in providing valuable career and technical education for the citizens of Springfield and the surrounding communities. Mayor Pro Tem Bob Stephens will present the proclamation on Thursday, February 2, at 10 a.m., during the College’s Career and Technical Education Celebration. The event will be held in the Atrium of the Industry and Transportation Technology Center, located at the corner of National Avenue and Central Street on the OTC Springfield Campus.
“We are honored that the City of Springfield has chosen to recognize National Career and Technical Education Month, and the importance of that kind of education,” said Dr. Hal Higdon, chancellor of Ozarks Technical Community College. “The students who complete their training through our technical programs leave OTC fully prepared for careers in a wide variety of fields — fields that are constantly in need of those qualified workers.”
The College has a variety of activities planned for National Career and Technical Education Month. On Friday, February 10, OTC will host the district competition for SkillsUSA, a national organization serving trade, industrial, technical and health occupation students in public high schools, career and technical centers and two-year colleges. District winners will advance to state competition in March, followed by national competition in June. Additionally, OTC will be represented at the Missouri Association of Career and Technical Education Legislative Day in Jefferson City on Wednesday, February 15.
College Director of Communication
Coordinator of Public Information


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A medical license is required for a doctor to practice medicine in a particular state. Requirements vary by state but most require, at a minimum, post-graduate training in the doctor’s specific specialty. An NPI number is a national identifier unique to an individual health care provider and is managed by the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
Learn more about Dr. Kenneth Seiber:
View the full profile to get information on:
- What's important to you
View full profile
The overall average patient rating of Dr. Kenneth Seiber is Good.
|Ease of Appointment||
|Spends Time with Me||
|Follows Up After Visit||
Prepare before visiting Dr. Seiber
Endometriosis Patient Education Read about common symptoms and treatments by reading our endrometriosis patient education guide to endometrial implants.Before Visiting Dr. Seiber Learn More
Specialties & Research
Dr. Kenneth Seiber, MD is board certified in Orthopaedic Surgery.
- He has special expertise in 3 areas:
- Hip Osteoarthritis
- Knee Osteoarthritis
- Osteoarthritis (Hand and Wrist)
Education & Awards
Dr. Seiber graduated from George Washington University.
Dr. Seiber has 7 hospital affiliations:
- Kaiser Foundation Hospital - Martinez/Walnut
- Stanford Hospital and Clinics
Similar doctors nearby
- Additional Information
- Dr. Kenneth Scott Seiber MD is a male Orthopaedic Surgeon, has 9 years of experience and practices in Orthopaedic Surgery.
- Where does Dr. Kenneth S. Seiber practice?
- Dr. Kenneth Seiber has 2 office locations.
Dr. Kenneth Seiber practices Orthopaedic Surgery near Walnut Creek, CA.
Additional practice locations include: Palo Alto, CA.
See Walnut Creek Surgeons.


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The Ulla Johnson store is located on a landmarked block of Bleecker Street in the NoHo Historic District, located in Manhattan's Greenwich Village.
The design team used many elements and proportions taken from residential interiors to create a space that would feel familiar and comfortable while adding custom elements that will hold up for commercial use. The long and narrow storefront was broken into a more residentially proportioned space with front and rear "parlors" connected by a decorative pass-through, while providing two dressing rooms off of the rear parlor and a bathroom for staff beside the sales desk.
Carefully considered finishes include a green marble base that wraps the perimeter of the store and transitions into the floor surface of the decorative pass-through between the main rooms. The high ceilings were emphasized with exaggerated tall mirrors and soft coved crowns where the walls meet the ceiling. The appearance of taller windows was created by building new tall frames with artificial light installed behind window coverings. Soft, muted tones with varying textures provided by stone, wood, and plaster were carefully selected to highlight the clothing, accessories, and palette of Ulla Johnson's collections. The oval custom sales desk is composed of oak dowels that are hand-wrapped with Danish cord. Brass caps at the tops of the dowels can be seen through the glass countertop where jewelry is displayed. The historic, copper storefront was polished and then left to patina for 24 hours before sealing it in order to capture the perfect color to complement the interior of the store and Ulla Johnson's collections.


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A girl simply identified as Amanda was found dead early this morning at Otokutu along DSC express road in Delta state.
Sympathisers who simply identified her as Amanda claimed she operates a salon at Okumagba in Warri, according to gossips around the scene of crime she was alleged to dropped there by a Venza car owner.
Though no trace of the removal of any body part the cause of her death still remains a mystery.
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Children’s University is a charity that works in partnership with schools to develop a love of learning in children. We do this by encouraging and celebrating participation in extra-curricular activities in and outside of school. The impact of these activities is proven to be positive which is why we’re committed to creating a level playing field of opportunity and opening up access to children of all backgrounds.http://www.childrensuniversity.co.uk
Find an organisation for further help
Latest news and blogs
Apprenticeships & social mobility: you can help apprenticeships reach their social mobility potential
The Social Mobility Commission’s new toolkit: ‘Apprenticeships that works for all’ has been launched today (14 October). This blog explores the current apprenticeship landscape and sets out why we developed this toolkit. View the toolkit We hosted a virtual toolkit launch event on Thursday 14 October, where a panel of experts explore key challenges around […]
Comedian Rob Beckett has spoken up about the class divide in comedy and his heroes "imagining what a working-class person’s life is."
Rob reflects many working class people’s experiences entering the creative world, including being unable to work for free.
We know the creative industries are heavily skewed towards hiring and progressing people from more privileged backgrounds. But it is vital they stay in tune with and reflect their audiences.
Our Creative industries toolkit is designed to help the industry be more #CreativeAndDiverse. Take a look 👇Find out more


Rishi Sunak is too savvy an operator to declare victory in the battle against unemployment because the past 18 months have shown that the unexpected can happen, and often does.
Yet while noting that there could still be “bumps in the road”, the chancellor is certainly relieved by how well the UK labour market has recovered from the effects of the Covid pandemic.
The latest jobs bulletin from the Office for National Statistics showed the employment rate up and the unemployment rate down. Job vacancies hit 1m for the first time in July and the number of hours worked a week – while still below their pre-crisis levels – passed 1bn for the first time since early 2020. Without question, this was an extremely strong report.
Three big imponderables remain. The first is whether the labour market will be knocked off course by the large number of daily cases of the Delta variant of the virus being reported in recent weeks. Thus far, the boost to employment from reopening the economy after its winter lockdown has outweighed any headwinds from the “pingdemic” or consumers becoming more nervous due to fears of falling ill.
The second issue looming is whether unemployment will start rising now the furlough scheme is being phased out. Wage subsidies have been – along with the development of vaccines – one of the two main success stories of the past 18 months and the TUC says it is premature to bring them to an end next month.
Sunak thinks the furlough scheme can be phased out relatively painlessly because half the people still on the scheme are on flexi-furlough, working some hours in their old jobs.
The ONS said there was no evidence of redundancies increasing before employers having to make a contribution to the costs of the furlough in July, which supports the chancellor’s view that firms are less likely to make people redundant if they are paying a share of their wages.
To find out more about how we can assist you with your Second Charge Mortgage please click here
Even so, the continued problems of certain sectors and the structural changes to the economy since the start of 2020 – more working from home and an increase in online shopping, for example – mean some dislocation is inevitable.
Finally, there is the question of what the Bank of England does in response to a labour market in which there appears to be little spare capacity. In the three months to June, annual growth in average earnings reached 8.8%, up from 7.4% in the three months to May and the highest since the current series began 20 years ago.
On the face of it, there is a case for immediate action from Threadneedle Street to prevent a wage-price spiral.
Appearances can be deceptive, however. Most of the annual increase in earnings was due to weak wage growth during the spring of 2020 and the fact that job losses were concentrated in low-paid sectors such as hospitality. Underlying pay growth once these factors are stripped out is running at 2%, according to Ruth Gregory, a senior economist at Capital Economics. Threadneedle Street has no need to rush into a decision: it has time to see how things pan out in the next few months.
By Larry Elliott
Source: The Guardian
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4 Weather Alerts //
- Weather Alert 1 - Winter Weather Advisory issued December 10 at…
- Weather Alert 2 - Winter Weather Advisory issued December 10 at…
- Weather Alert 3 - Winter Weather Advisory issued December 11 at…
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - A Facebook page supporting the injured Grand Haven High School students grew substantially over the weekend, a time when one of the girls remains in critical condition but two others were released from the hospital.
Brittney Olds remains in a medically induced coma because of a head injury, though school officials said her condition had stabilized.
Olds, Emily Bogner and Madison Case were unbuckled in the back seat of the SUV and were ejected during the crash along I-96 near Alden Nash around 11:30 a.m. Friday.
Bogner and Case were said to be improving over the weekend.
Hannah DeVecht, who family members said was in the front passenger seat, and Danielle Michaels, who was driving the vehicle, escaped critical injuries because they were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash.
In a Sunday afternoon posting to Olds' care page, loved ones said they were overwhelmed by the "outpouring of support for Brittney."
"Brittney had a stable night which is good news. She is still in a medically induced coma and is expected to be kept there for a number of days. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers," the posting said.
DeVecht posted a thank you to her supporters on her Facebook page late Sunday night.
"It's amazing how strong and united our community is and how supportive everyone has been," she wrote. "Thank you to everyone for all the prayers and thoughts."
But DeVecht clearly hasn't forgotten about her classmates who continue to combat serious injuries sustained in the crash.
"I miss my girls and I never stop worrying for them," she wrote. "Please keep up the prayers. We all have a long road to recovery, mentally and physically."
Tracy Wilson, the principal of Grand Haven High School, drove up on the crash and said she's visited every girl at the hospital since, reassuring them that the community is there for them.
"It was my kid. All of the kids in this building are my kids," said Wilson. "So my instinct and my feelings in my gut were different because they're not my blood, but it was no different in the fact that I still have to take care of them, every single one of them."
Grand Haven Public Schools Superintendent Keith Konarska said that he has been encouraged by the girls' recovery thus far. Konarska said counselors will be on hand for students as they return to school Monday.
The school will give each family a banner filled with well wishes this week and all the students will be wearing blue and gold ribbons on their backpacks in honor of the students involved in the crash.
The girls' were on their way to see the Grand Haven High School girls basketball team play in the state semi-finals at the Breslin Center in East Lansing when the crash happened.
The team won their game Friday before learning of the crash afterward. The girls played again Saturday and won that game as well and took home the Class A state title . DeVecht said she was watching.
"I watched the whole game on Saturday and I can't even explain how happy I was to see the win," she said. "I never doubted you guys for a second, I knew you were taking home that trophy. All you girls are truly amazing."
The community support for the crash victims continues to grow. The Facebook group Prayers For 5 Grand Haven High School Students grew to more than 2,200 members over the weekend.
"There's healing rain falling down upon these girls," the page administrator wrote. "Thank you Lord for your love, healing and comfort."
As a show of support at Saturday's game, someone held up a sign that read "For the 5 girls. In our prayers." Championship celebrations were reportedly cancelled as students focus on supporting their classmates who continue their recoveries.
"I've never felt so blessed and thankful for the people in my life," DeVecht wrote.
Ten people have filed a class action suit against Mercantile Bank, alleging the bank discriminated against minority business owners.
A camera mounted on a tow truck caught an example of a common incident Tuesday: a vehicle sliding off the road.
Officers from multiple law enforcement agencies worked together Tuesday evening to chase down an alleged van thief, despite slippery roads.


text:
The life and words of john f kennedy, by james playsted wood, published by scholastic book services first printing, 1965, awesome pictures, wonderful addition for homeschooling or any history buff. Watch video follow the success story of nba star lebron james, who led the miami heat to nba championship victories in both 2012 and 2013 “basketball is my life. Can you summarize the book of james who wrote james what is the book he focuses on the truths of jesus’ words in the sermon on. James melton publications (wwwav1611org/jmelton) much can be said of a person's character by the way they use their tongue. James maitland stewart was born on may 20 - imdb mini biography by: he had the enthusiasm for life that would make a high school football star envious.
Words of wisdom about life - william james courage doesn't always roar sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying. Read, listen to, and search the scriptures of god from the church of jesus christ of latter-day saints, including the holy bible and book of mormon. Daily questions for james chapter 1 day one 1 james addresses we face in life map the words or concepts of james chapter 1 verse 3 and romans.
Welcome to these inspirational words of wisdom quotes and sayings words of wisdom about life can alter his life by altering his attitude - william james. James madison, america's fourth president (1809-1817), made a major contribution to the ratification of the constitution by writing the federalist papers. James pennebaker is an internationally recognized social psychologist, whose research explores the connection between langugage and pscyhology his book, the secret life of pronouns, is about how the way we use common, everyday words, can reveal our.
Find the life and words of john f kennedy by wood, james playsted at biblio uncommonly good collectible and rare books from uncommonly good booksellers. Lyrics to 'you're beautiful' by james blunt my life is brilliant / my life is brilliant / my love is pure / i saw an angel / of that l'm sure / she smiled at. The life and words of john f kennedy by james playsted wood 1964 ebay the life and words of john f kennedy by james playsted wood 1964.
Another known documentary is the film william tyndale: his life, his legacy the 2-hour channel 4 documentary mcgoldrick, james edward (1979). The life and words of john f kennedy by james playsted wood published by: scholastic book services - 5'th printingaugust 1967 condition: good: paperback covers in good condition with wear and creases on edges, corners and covers some small tears and a small piece torn off back cover pages have significant yellowing. He said, “death and life are in the power of the tongue” (prov 18:21) words have the potential to produce positive or negative consequences (v 20) they have the power to give life through encouragement and honesty or to crush and kill through lies and gossip. Lyrics to god is by james cleveland: verse 1 / god is my protection / god is my all in all / god is my guide and direction / god is my.
The book of james is a general epistle (apostolic letter) james the half-brother of jesus wrote it approximately 48-49 ad it was likely the first new testament book (letter) to be written. The life and words of john f kennedy by wood, james playsted, 1905-publication date 1966 topics kennedy, john f (john fitzgerald), 1917-1963.
Bible verses about words of my mouth words of my mouth bible verses in the king james version (kjv) about words of my mouth a tree of life. William shakespeare: the life and legacy of england’s bard introducing up to 300 words and dozens of well-known phrases james shapiro on the building of. James wolfe: james wolfe, commander of the british army at the capture of quebec from the french in 1759, a victory that led to british supremacy in canada the elder son of lieutenant general edward wolfe, he was commissioned in the royal marines in 1741 but transferred almost immediately to the 12th foot.
Here is a wonderful memory of president john f kennedy in pictures and words celebrates the life of the thirty-fifth president, describing his childhood, education, family, and political development. Free james baldwin papers james baldwin's life in notes of a native son - cycles of hatred this quotation by james arthur baldwin helps to bring. John was the brother of the apostle james after a time, the disciples wearied at always hearing the same words, asked, master, why do you always say this. The jesuswalk bible study series is designed to engage serious followers understanding the meanings of the words as well as life of james jesus and the.


Apr 26, 2011, 11:58 PM EDT
Chase Hughes and I will have another live edition of Beltway Baseball tomorrow at 1:30 p.m. on CSNwashington.com (also live-streamed here on NatsInsider.com). And this week we’ve got a new twist: We’ll be answering a few questions from all of you.
If you’ve got a topic or a specific question you’d like us to address, put it in the comments section of this thread. Obviously we won’t be able to get to them all, but we’ll pick the best ones and use them during tomorrow’s show.
Make sure to tune in at 1:30 p.m. tomorrow to find out if we selected your question.
ON THE RADIO
As ESPN-980 AM's Nats Insider, Mark makes daily appearances on the station's various shows. Here's the 2014 schedule (subject to change)...
MON: 12:45 p.m.
TUE: 2:30 p.m.
WED: 4:30 p.m.
THU: 2:30 p.m.
FRI: 1:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m.
SAT: 10:30 a.m.
*All times Eastern. You can also listen to the station on 94.3 FM, 92.7 FM and online at ESPN980.com. Click here for past audio clips.
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- Bumgarner, Giants beat KC 3-2 in Series Game 7
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- Giants, Royals battle in Game 7 for 2014 World Series title
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- Nationals roster review: Jordan Zimmermann
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text:
On his first day as the state’s superintendent of public instruction, newly elected Chris Reykdal withdrew the department’s involvement in a lawsuit against a handful of Washington school districts.
The lawsuit, filed by previous Superintendent Randy Dorn, alleges that seven school districts, including Evergreen Public Schools, unlawfully spent local levy dollars on teacher, administrator and classified staff salaries.
Such practice, Dorn argued, violated the state Supreme Court’s 2012 McCleary decision, which compels the Legislature to fully fund basic education by 2018.
“The court, however, has never held that school districts are prohibited from using local levies for employee compensation,” Reykdal wrote in an OSPI statement. “During the 2017 legislative session, it will be critical for the Legislature to both amply fund basic education and clearly define in statute what basic education compensation is and is not.”
Dorn’s lawsuit was filed in King County and also named Seattle, Everett, Bellevue, Spokane, Tacoma and Puyallup districts.
Gail Spolar, Evergreen district spokeswoman, said the district’s focus Wednesday was on responding to the week’s snowstorm. But, she noted, because there are other plaintiffs, “this doesn’t mean that it’s done.”
In a statement, Reykdal urged the remaining intervening plaintiffs — four citizens who joined the lawsuit after it was initially filed — to withdraw their support for the lawsuit.
“This approach is an unnecessary cost for taxpayers,” he wrote.
John Deeder, superintendent of Evergreen Public Schools, wasn’t available Wednesday, but told The Columbian last summer that the lawsuit was “a tactic” by Dorn to pressure the Legislature into coming up with a solution to fully funding K-12 education.
Pressure indeed is on the Legislature this session to come up with a plan to comply with the McCleary decision — though if the first few days of the legislative session are any indication, that won’t happen easily.
A bipartisan task force charged with recommending legislation reached a stalemate Monday, dividing along party lines on coming up with a proposal.

domain: politics


text:
The recent explosion of unsolicited material written for the world's
greatest, sexiest entertainment medium has largely produced a mountain
a wasted paper. Truth is, the many people who write from scratch, no
mater how talented, have more chance of winning the lottery than
creating an excellent script. The few who achieve success do so
because they have shed the blood, sweat and tears necessary to master
the elaborate art and craft of screenwriting.
This book explodes
the myth that a screenplay is the easiest literary form to master,
navigates a relatively painless path through the screenwriting
labyrinth, and offers an easy to digest step-by-step guide to writing a
script from inception to completion.
What's in it? The main
areas covered are: Motivation & Ideas; Research & Development;
Genre; Story & Plot; Synopses; Outlines & Treatments; Drafts;
and Marketing. There's also a glossary of commonly-used jargon to
further demystify the process, and a large list of books, magazines,
organizations and websites what will help you develop your craft.
Costello is a Film and Media Studies lecturer and teaches Screenwriting
classes at several Midlands universities. He is the author of the
Pocket Essentials on David Cronenberg and Science Fiction Films.


Baseball Cap, Snapback Hat, Promotion Cap manufacturer / supplier in China, offering Customed Sports Headband and Wristband with Embroidery, Wholesale Knit Beanie Slouchy Skull Caps Winter Warm Caps and Hats with Woven Label, Fashion Acrylic Winter Hats Beanie Wholesale Custom Knit Toque Jacquard Ski Skull Cap with POM POM and so on.
|Main Products:||Baseball Cap , Snapback Hat , Promotion Cap , Cotton Cap , Sports Cap , Trucker Cap|
|Number of Employees:||30|
|Year of Establishment:||2018-11-19|
|Management System Certification:||ISO 9000|
|Average Lead Time:||
Peak season lead time: one month
Off season lead time: one month
Capwindow international Co., Ltd. is a cap and hat manufacturer with a history of more than 15 years, which is located in dongguan city, guangdong province. There are more than 400 skilful workers. Our factory was equipped with over 260 sewing machines and 8 embroidery machines. Our monthly production capacity is around 50000 dozs. We have strict quality control system to make sure all the goods are in good quality before shipment.
Our main products include traditional baseball cap, bucket hat, visor, bandanna hat, beanie, knitted hat, scarf and gloves, polar fleece cap and scarf. We also can make items as per the client′s design. Our products were exported to USA, Europe, Australia and Japan.
We respect good relationship with our present customers and also keen on to develop with our new customer, explore new markets.
Our professional merchandiser teams can provide satisfactory service, your inquiries will got answered within 24 hours. Our sample lead time is around 5-7 days for regular caps/hats, 10-15 days for special designs. Our production lead time is around 25-30 days after sample approval.
We are always at the forefront of new technology and catch new pop styles on the market. Our professional knowledge experience and prompt delivery will bring excellent service to you.
|Company Name||Country/Region||Products You Supply|
|Product Name||Units Produced (Previous Year)|
|baseball cap||1000000 Pieces|
|bucket hat||500000 Pieces|
|sun visor||5000000 Pieces|
|snapback baseball cap||1000000 Pieces|


text:
Bring the lush green hues of spring to your table with a gorgeous moss centerpiece that looks as if it were the product of a foraging adventure in the forest. The earthy greens lend whimsical woodland vibes to your spring (and summer, and fall, and winter) gatherings, while candlelight instantly gives all the warm and cozy feels. Because the moss is preserved, it'll last much longer than flowers—and it's seriously such a cinch to make. These centerpieces are perfect for a rustic wedding, or for the center of your dining room table any time of year.
Things You’ll Need
Large shallow bowl
Dry floral foam
Candles, various sizes
Preserved Spanish moss
Preserved forest moss
Craft glue dots (optional)
Start with a large shallow bowl. I used a rustic wooden dough bowl because I love how the earthy tones of the wood pair with the verdant moss. However, you could use any bowl shape, serving tray, wood crate, or even a casserole dish. Choose a bowl or dish with a flat bottom; if anyone or anything bumps into the centerpiece while the candles are lit, you don't want the bowl to roll at all. Make sure the sides of the container are at least as tall as the foam block you're using.
Place a brick of dry floral foam in the center of the bowl. Dry floral foam (versus wet floral foam) is designed especially for holding items upright in floral arrangements, and it comes in many shapes; blocks, bricks, spheres, etc. For longer bowls like the one I used, a brick worked best. You may need to use multiple blocks for a large centerpiece.
If necessary, use a floral foam knife to trim the bricks and make them fit into your container.
Twist the candles firmly into the foam until they stand upright. Make sure they are secure and twisted deeply into the foam, as you don't want them accidentally falling over if someone were to bump the table. Use a combination of taper candles and votive candles of varying colors, heights and thicknesses for visual interest. Stagger the rows to add dimension from all sides of the centerpiece. Plan out where you want to put the candles before pushing them into the foam, since you can't fill in a hole once created.
Depending on the size of the candles you use, the depth of the foam block and the shape of the bowl, your candles may not seem very stable once they're pushed into the foam. For obvious reasons, you don't want to light candles if there's any chance they'll fall over. If they seem unstable, push candles all the way through the foam and use craft glue dots to adhere the candles to the container.
Fill the bowl with Spanish moss. This will add a lot of volume, and it's also much cheaper than filling the entire bowl with forest moss. You may still be able to see the foam through the Spanish moss, which is okay.
Place forest moss on top of the Spanish moss until it's completely covered. Make sure to strategically place the forest moss between the candles so that it also conceals the floral foam. Use all green moss, or create an eye-catching centerpiece using colored reindeer moss in a shade like fuchsia.
Now light the candles and enjoy the glowing green vibes of spring!
Never leave this centerpiece unattended when the candles are lit. If you have kids or pets in the house and are concerned about candle safety, you can use realistic flameless candles for this centerpiece.


text:
One of the non-profits that I am involved in is the local license of
Please take a moment to read the following and if you can find it within your hearts to help out a little it will go a very long way. I also promise to post the results here of the latest reading marathon. So if you are here in
Together we can improve prospects and opportunities for children’s education in
Your support can make a difference.
In 1997 Fundación Leer signed a license agreement with “Reading Is Fundamental, Inc” in the
For the fifth year running Fundación Leer invites children and youngsters, with their families and the rest of the community to enjoy the magic and joy of reading for a day.
October 5th is the date set for thousands of children in schools, community centers, clubs, libraries, soup-kitchens, hospitals and health centers, to share multiple activities based on reading: narrations, theatre productions, workshops, reading in parks, amongst others.
Through this free and non-competitive initiative, we propose to create an awareness in the community as to the importance of awakening children´s interest in reading, and to afford all children equal and enriching opportunities for literacy.
Using “Enjoy Reading, share a book with a friend” as our motto for this year´s
Reading Corners are informal, happy areas, furnished with books, where children and youngsters are able to select their favorites, touch, leaf through and read them at will. They are created as literacy-promoting environments by the school community, aided by volunteers, and following experts’ guidelines. The Reading Corners offer the chance of bringing community members together, inviting them to be a part of the proposed literacy-promoting activities. The Reading Corners are created specifically as spaces for children and youngsters to read, based on the fact that reading is a key element in their personal development.
The participating schools will take part in a draw for 200 new books to set up Reading Corners.
The winning establishments will receive new books and attend a training session run by Fundación Leer team for guidelines as to the creation of Reading Corners and ideas as to possible activities to carry out in the pursuit of motivating reading.
In this way, Fundación Leer proposes to motivate reading and promote literacy of children and youngsters nationwide, generating a long-term positive impact on their personal development, and easing their full insertion in society.
Your donation contributes to increasing the number of Reading Corners to be raffled at the close of the 5th edition of the National
How to contribute
In order of being able to receive donations from other parts of the world, Fundación Leer signed an alliance with Help Argentina. If you would like to contribute please enter the following link: http://www.helpargentina.org/spanish/ongs_success.php?id=71 and click “donate”.
What is your contribution worth?
US$ 12 equals 2 new books for a Reading Corner.
US$ 100 equals 18 new books for a Reading Corner.
US$ 500 equals 90 new books, making up a full Reading Corner.
US$ 1100 equals 200 new books, making up a full Reading Corner.
You may assign your contribution to a specific locality.
Should you carry out the donation of a full
To find out more about this possibility, please contact us at email@example.com
Some results from the 4th National
120.684 adults (teachers, parents, community leaders, paediatricians, nurses, librarians)
23 provinces and the City of Buenos Aires
20 Declarations of Interest: from the National Ministry for Science and Technology, and from
15 Provinces and the City of Buenos Aires

domain: literature


text:
TN Area 52 Al-Anon Assembly
June 4-5, 2022
At the 62nd World Service Conference, the Global Electronic Area was admitted as the 68th Area.
This has not happened since Alaska was admitted as a new Area in 1987, thirty-five years ago. There was no internet, no wireless connectivity, cell phones were the size of a shoe.
Cathy M, a member of the Task Force for the Global Electronic Area, gave us a history of Alaska becoming the previously last paneled Area of the WSC.
When Alaska was admitted to WSC Structure, the groups were not connected to each other nor were they connected to AL-Anon. Some groups went to the AA international where an Al-Anon Trustee was invited to speak. The groups decided to hold an interim Assembly and to vote for a Delegate. Cathy said she voted no because she thought the person who could be Delegate just wanted a free trip to NY.
After the vote, there were questions about policy with electronic groups. Sue P would point out where those questions could be directed. After a time, we all realized Ozzie had been waiting in the hall for quite some time.
After voting, Ozzie was welcomed back in the room to a standing ovation. He told us he fully expected to be told the vote had been no because he waited so long.


text:
Symptoms of tonsillitis in adults are similar to symptoms in children, and may include: sore throat; pain when swallowing; red, swollen tonsils.
Talk with your doctor if you have very painful swollen tonsils. In adults, some specific tonsil symptoms may indicate tonsil cancer.
Signs and symptoms of tonsillitis include swollen tonsils, sore throat, a factor that may account for the rare cases of tonsillitis in adults.
Adults who have the surgery typically have had several sore throats over the past 1 to 3 years or have had a sore throat and swollen tonsils.