Friday's front pages feature stories on Brexit, the weather and a new male contraceptive.
BBC | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 23:07:20
The Speaker of Britain's House of Commons insists he's a neutral arbiter of the rancorous Brexit debate, even as he acknowledges championing voices in the bruising parliamentary battles over the UK's departure from the EU.
CNN | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 21:08:00
The FTSE 100 closed the last trading day of January higher by 0.39% to 6,968.85, despite a stronger pound, up vs the dollar by 0.14%, with traders ignoring the European Union's rejection of PM Theresa May's calls to reopen Brexit negotiations. EU's chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, proclaimed that the ...
FX Street | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 20:37:21
Jeremy Hunt says Britain's EU departure EU could slide beyond March 29
FT | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 19:57:59
Chief whip Julian Smith informed Conservative MPs they could still go away following unrest on the backbenches
Joe Watts / The Independent | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 19:41:00
Nick Clegg, Facebook's new global head of public affairs and the former U.K. deputy prime minister, gave his first public interview since starting at the social media giant. Speaking to Ryan Heath before an audience of 200 at Brussels' Bibliothèque Solvay on Monday, Clegg addressed the growing number of Facebook ...
Ryan Heath / Politico | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 19:40:06
Brexit could become the biggest peacetime emergency for the United Kingdom in almost a century. NBC Chief Global Correspondent Bill Neely joins Ali Velshi and Stephanie Ruhle to break down what kind of disruption this could cause and if there is anything
MSNBC | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 19:35:59
Transport Secretary Chris Grayling believes he is the subject of personal criticism because he is "a lightning rod for the anti-Brexit brigade".
Sky | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 18:56:00
His comments gained attention due to fears the country is not ready to leave
DANICA KIRKA / AP / Time | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 18:47:06
Anger in London at 'completely inappropriate' language in proposed EU law
FT | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 18:44:36
Spanish growers warn that the price of their tomatoes in the UK may increase if there is a no-deal Brexit, due to tariffs and other increased costs.
BBC | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 18:38:24
The cost of cherry tomatoes would rise immediately if there is a no-deal Brexit, say Spanish producers.
BBC | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 18:36:16
The United Kingdom is preparing for the possibility of leaving the European Union without a plan
Council on Foreign Relations / CFR | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 18:28:13
Ratifying one of the EU's founding treaties was 'treasonous,' Gerard Batten argues.
Emma Anderson / Politico | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 18:27:29
FT | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 17:56:46
Greece is looking for options to allow British tourists and expats to continue visit and stay in the country visa-free even if there is Brexit without deal. The Greek government aims to allow Britons to enter the country without visa after the UK exits the European Union. "A no-deal Brexit ...
keeptalkinggreece / Keep Talking Greece | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 17:46:27
Head of operations in Britain says government is as divided over policy as it is on Brexit The chief executive of one of Britain's biggest industrial companies, Siemens UK, has accused the government of being as divided over its industrial strategy as it is over Brexit. Jürgen Maier, who leads ...
Richard Partington / Guardian | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 17:42:11
Arj Singh / Huffington Post | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 17:25:30
Sir Graham Brady tells the BBC he would accept a short delay to Brexit day if a deal was in place.
BBC | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 17:25:03
Brexit: Labour MPs branded 'cowards' amid ferocious party infighting over backing for Theresa May's deal
The row erupted after an MP signalled he could accept funding to regenerate his constituency in return for backing the pm's deal in the commons
Joe Watts / The Independent | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 17:08:00
In this edition: we ask students protesting for climate change what they want changed, German sweet exports could be hit by Brexit and MEPs vote for more transparency over their expenses and lobbying practices.
euronews | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 17:01:36
Brexit news: Government accused of 'staggering from one week to the next' as MPs' break cancelled due to crisis
All the latest coverage from Westminster
Shehab Khan / The Independent | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 17:01:00
Kirsty Blackman / Huffington Post | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 16:30:10
Despite having her negotiated EU withdrawal deal soundly rejected in the House of Commons this month, British Prime Minister Theresa May is still in charge of the Brexit process. To avert a disastrous "no-deal" scenario, the bloc's leaders must continue to work with May on a compromise solution, whether it ...
Jean Pisani-Ferry / Project Syndicate | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 16:03:30
Britain and the EU must try to preserve the longstanding economic, political, and security links and, despite the last 31 months spent arguing over Brexit, they should try to follow a new path toward convergence.
Jean Pisani-Ferry / Bruegel | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 15:53:06
On Friday Labour MP Cat Smith was due to hold a public meeting promising to discuss Brexit with her constituents, a majority of whom voted to leave the EU. The meeting was due to take place in one of the highest voting wards in her constituency... Writing on Facebook the ...
Tom Harwood / Guy Fawkes' blog | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 15:39:31
(This Jan. 30 story has been refilled to corrects ING projection, update chart)
Reuters | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 14:53:07
Unilever says it is holding extra inventory of the ice cream bars in case of supply chain disruption.
BBC | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 14:51:55
To subscribe to the newsletter, please sign up here Dear reader, This is the last edition of the Brexit & Beyond newsletter, and we will soon begin sending you our daily What's News newsletter. It features the best of The Wall Street Journal, including Brexit and European news. You can ...
WSJ Staff / MoneyBeat | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 14:38:14
Prime minister seeks to solidify coalition behind Brexit deal
FT | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 14:20:45
British car production fell by 9 percent last year, the biggest drop since the 2008-9 recession, and investment slumped by nearly half due to fears about Brexit, an industry body said on Thursday.
Reuters | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 14:08:30
The Institute for Government warns that crucial laws needed for post-Brexit will not be in place. MPs must summon courage Shellshocked MPs of the sensible tendency are now seriously alarmed. You find them in a daze around Westminster and its news studio green-rooms stunned by Tuesday night's failure of the ...
Polly Toynbee / Guardian | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 14:05:15
George Bowden / Huffington Post | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 13:50:41
With Britain at risk of leaving the European Union without a divorce deal, many of its biggest companies have lost patience and started to restructure their operations to prepare for the chaotic fallout that could ensue.
Reuters | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 13:31:42
As things stand, Brexit is happening in 57 days.
CNN | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 13:24:35
The European Union's markets watchdog said it has approved an agreement on supervisory cooperation with Britain after Brexit to avoid disruption to cross border financial services like asset management.
Reuters | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 13:15:48
Company says it is importing extra supplies in the event that ports grind to a halt Unilever is stockpiling Magnum ice cream in the UK to ensure supplies do not run low if there is a no-deal Brexit.The ice-cream is produced in mainland Europe. Unilever's chief executive, Alan Jope, said ...
Zoe Wood / Guardian | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 13:13:46
The big retailers' business model has made food shortages more likely in the event of a no-deal Brexit "The shops will be empty" and "the lights will go out" are the staple warnings of commercial interests that have an axe to grind or are looking for public support. But the ...
Andrew Simms / Guardian | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 12:51:03
Sarah Wollaston has said that she would stand as an independent in a future election if she resigns the Conservative whip over Brexit. Wollaston said that she would resign from the Conservatives if the Government ended up heading for no deal, even if it was by default rather than by ...
Hugh Bennett / Guy Fawkes' blog | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 12:49:56
EPA/Facundo Arrizabalaga After decades of in-fighting, the Conservative Party has united in parliament over a Brexit strategy. But why is this so surprising? What is behind this sudden show of unity? And can we expect more of it in the future? Like Labour, the Conservative Party is a "broad church". ...
Christopher Fear, Lecturer in Political and International Relations, University of Hull / The Conversation | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 12:42:41
Geert Bourgeois requests a 'guarantee fund.'
Lili Bayer / Politico | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 12:20:20
BBC News at Six accidentally shows Battle of Britain footage when describing Theresa May's return to the EU
A hilarious and almost too-good-to-be-true miscue on BBC News led to footage of the 'Battle of Britain' being broadcast while Theresa May's return to Brussels was described.
The Independent | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 12:15:00
As Chances of No-Deal Brexit Rise, British Companies Scramble to Prepare Trump's Venezuela Sanctions Put Russian Billions at Risk PetroChina to Drop PDVSA as Partner [...]
Eddy Elfenbein / Eddy Elfenbein | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 12:12:08
The European Commission warned the UK that it must pay the £39 billion Brexit bill that forms part of the withdrawal agreement also if there the withdrawal agreement is not approved. The bill covers the budget until 2020 and Brussels insists that it is valid as all 28 members of ...
FX Street | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 12:08:00
The Netherlands' largest onion producer fears Brexit could leave her produce stuck in transit.
BBC | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 12:03:28
Jeremy Hunt has been slapped down by Downing Street after suggesting that Brexit may have to be delayed past the UK's legal exit date.
Joe Watts / The Independent | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 11:51:00
Despite a never-ending series of threats from giant EU-funded corporations and even warnings that 12,000 people will die from lack of fruit, the latest Sky Data poll has found that No Deal is still the most popular Brexit option. When asked to choose between the three options, 39% of voters ...
Hugh Bennett / Guy Fawkes' blog | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 11:50:47
British Prime Minister Theresa May will meet the group of MPs behind an alternative Brexit proposal later on Thursday, her spokesman said.
Reuters | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 11:37:53
Britain may need to delay Brexit to pass legislation to implement the split with the European Union, Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said Thursday. As the March 29 withdrawal date looms, the government is still trying to convince MPs to support a version of the divorce deal it has agreed with ...
Agence France-Presse / South China Morning Post | Thu, 31 Jan 2019 11:17:12


text:
Young is hammering out final details for the purchase of 105 acres on Seneca's western shore. The land, bordered by several vineyards, is a working farm, not currently used for grapegrowing, and came on the market just a few months ago.
Young and his friend John Martini, the owner of Anthony Road Wine Company (in which Young is a shareholder) on Seneca Lake, have been exploring possible sites in the Finger Lakes for more than two years, said Martini. Anthony Road will develop and manage the future vineyard, which is half a mile from its winery.
"We've been looking forward to this association for a long time, and we'll plant the grapes that do well here: Chardonnay and Riesling, as well as Pinot Noir, which is a promising grape in the Finger Lakes," said Alan Lefko, secretary-treasurer of Anthony Road. Lefko said the development would give Anthony Road an assured supply of high-quality fruit.
Robert Young founded his original vineyard in Sonoma County's Alexander Valley in the 1960s. His vineyards achieved fame when Richard Arrowood, then the winemaker for Chateau St. Jean, used his grapes to produce one of the first vineyard-designated Chardonnays, the 1975 Robert Young Vineyard Chardonnay. In 1997, Young's children decided to launch their own label, Robert Young Estate Winery, making a Chardonnay and a Bordeaux-style red blend called Scion.
Jim Young, Robert's son and vineyard director of Robert Young Vineyards, noted that the move brings his family full circle, back to its roots in upstate New York in the mid-1800s. "The Finger Lakes wine industry is expanding rapidly," said Young, "and there is a great demand for the kind of premium grapes we will be growing."
The deal is "a little bit of family history, a little bit of friendship and little bit of a good business opportunity," added Martini. "[The Finger Lakes] have good vineyard sites; we have the infrastructure and relatively low costs."
Vineyard land along Seneca, Keuka and Cayuga lakes sells for about $2,000 an acre, compared with $20,000 to $40,000 on Long Island, and as much as $200,000 an acre in Napa Valley, according to Jim Trezise, president of the New York Grape and Wine Foundation. Trezise said he has been fielding inquiries from several California wineries that are "serious enough to send people east to investigate possibilities."
Scott Osborn, proprietor of Fox Run Vineyard on Seneca Lake, noted that he has been visited by potential investors from southern California and France. Osborn believes the growing threat of vine-killing Pierce's disease in California's vineyards may be influencing growers to seek new sites. "Their visits," Osborn said, "are recognition that the Finger Lakes is a premium wine-producing region."

domain: geography


text:
For information on how to access this interview contact Reference Services.
An interview with Walter Hamady conducted 2011 June 16-17, by Robert Cozzolino, for the Archives of American Art's Nanette L. Laitman Documentation Project for Craft and Decorative Arts in America.
Quotes and excerpts must be cited as follows: Oral history interview with Walter Hamady, 2011 June 16-17. Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution.
Interviewee Walter Hamady (1940- 2019) was a bookmaker, assemblagist, artist, and writer in Mount Horeb, Wisconsin. Interviewer Robert Cozzolino (1970- ) is a curator in Media, Pennsylvania.
This interview is part of the Archives of American Art Oral History Program, started in 1958 to document the history of the visual arts in the United States, primarily through interviews with artists, historians, dealers, critics and administrators.
Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution, 750 9th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20001

domain: library


text:
When Pauline Marois speaks to gatherings of Parti Québécois members, she preaches to the converted. A such, she apparently presumes they will swallow whole hog anything she might say.
Judging from the enthusiastic applause with which her speech to a weekend PQ national council meeting was received, this is no delusion on her part. The delusion is rather on the part of her audience, which appeared to take at face value the nonsense she spouted.
It was hardly convincing, however, for the rest of us whose vision is not beclouded by sovereignist fantasy.
The slogan posted on the lectern at which she spoke was: “Let us make Quebec a rich country.” No surprise that to her mind all it would take to bring this about is to wrest Quebec from what she portrays as the impoverishing stranglehold of Canada.
She maintained Quebec is well on the road to richness, more so than in 1995 when Quebecers came close to a majority Yes vote in that year’s sovereignty referendum. Never have fewer Quebec families been without jobs or on social assistance, she said as evidence to that effect.
That may be so, but it glosses over the underperforming state of Quebec’s current economy, which lags behind the Canadian average in various key indicators.
Employment in Quebec is up over last year, but the rate of increase is half that of Canada as a whole. Statistics Canada also says that the unemployment rate in Canada, at last report, was 6.9 per cent, but 7.5 per cent in Quebec. Labour income in Quebec, meanwhile, is indeed up 2.2 per cent over last year, but 3.1 per cent nationwide. Average weekly earnings are up here, but by less than half the rate of increase nationwide.
In another bogus claim, she maintained that it costs Quebecers more to stay in Canada than it would if it were out, citing major federal contracts to a Halifax shipyard and the bailout of the Ontario-based auto industry for which Quebec taxpayers contributed a substantial share.
What this overlooks is that on the whole, Quebec benefits far more from federal spending in the province than it contributes to the national purse.
Most recent figures posted by the provincial government’s own Institut de la statistique du Québec show that in 2011, federal spending in Quebec exceeded revenues derived from the province by some $19 billion. This includes federal spending on goods and services, pensions, employment insurance, benefits to families with children, equalization and so forth.
Rather than decreasing, this imbalance has been steadily growing over the past decade, from slightly under $1 billion in 2004 to the present gap; since 2008, it has surpassed $11 billion, year in year out.
But then, barefaced assertions that are in glaring contradiction to reality are this government’s stock in trade, as in the case it makes for its wretched values charter, claiming it will unify Quebecers when in fact it has divided them and will continue to create even more division in the future.
There was no credible economic case for separation in 1995, and there is none to this day.

domain: finance


This looks totally safe.
“See that really skinny, rickety bridge? We should drive our two-ton truck, with two kayaks on the roof, while pulling a boat, over it. It’s totally safe.”
Were you gritting your teeth just waiting for the groaning bridge to give?
The background music just adds to the intensity. Will the thumbs-up guy make it?
Make it he does.
This thin wooden bridge is somewhere in Brazil and you just have to imagine that what was on the other side was worth the anxiety.
Maybe there was a lake filled with huge bass these boys were headed to.
I like this smart YouTube comment:
“From an engineering standpoint. Wood has a higher compression ration than steel. The Steel cables are what hold the bridge together. I do not know why people are amazed by this video. If a cable snaps they will get wet. Otherwise it is fine. The Cable Test is most likely around 2 tons, with 4 cables that would equal out easily.”
Fine, now it’s not even that cool.


text:
Both she and poet laureate Amanda Gorman have signed with the agency.
Find out her daughter's unique name.
The moody piece features looks from the brand's latest collection.
This is the only time Swift has approved the song for a campaign message.
Request an absentee ballot and check your registration status while you shop.
"[I felt] the need to show skin... I really don't think I was [that] person."
"You can't Tinder your way into a long-term relationship."
The state is experiencing record-setting devastation, as more than 250,o00 people have been displaced from their homes.
The first inevitable "bored in the house, in the house bored" show is upon us.
A 'Fleabag' reunion is upon us.
Channel a year's worth of stress into a weekend of shopping.
This isn't her first time being nominated at a major awards show, either...
Last weekend, rallies in Brooklyn, Chicago, and Los Angeles showed support for the Black trans community.
The latest phase of reform comes five years after the #OscarsSoWhite controversy.
On Wednesday, Julia Roberts, Kourtney Kardashian, and Gwyneth Paltrow's IG accounts will be used to amplify Black female voices.
Janet Mock and Indya Moore are among those who have spoken out about the brutal attack against Dior.
The singer also announced she and Global Citizen already raised $35 million for WHO.
The room where it happens is a theater near you.
Read the 2019 ELLE Women in Hollywood honoree's empowering speech.

domain: news


Search International and National Patent Collections
|1. (WO2018221361) LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY PANEL AND LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY DEVICE|
|Applicants:||SHARP KABUSHIKI KAISHA
|Title:||LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY PANEL AND LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY DEVICE|
The present invention provides a horizontal-electric-field-mode liquid crystal display panel that has excellent visibility in a bright place and suppresses light from leaking at the edges of an active region. The liquid crystal display panel according to the present invention has, from the observation surface side to the rear surface side in the following order, a first polarization plate, a first λ/4 layer, a first substrate, a second λ/4 layer, a liquid crystal layer, a second substrate, and a second polarization plate, wherein in an active region, the first substrate has a plurality of color filter layers including an edge color filter layer located at the edge of the active region, and in a non-active region, the first substrate has, from the observation surface side to the rear surface side in the following order, a black matrix and a dummy color filter layer which overlaps the black matrix and which is adjacent to the edge color filter, a step of at most 1.2 μm in height is provided between the surface of the edge color filter layer and the surface of the dummy color filter layer, and the second λ/4 layer overlaps a boundary between the edge color filter layer and the dummy color filter layer.


At last the long awaited climate plan. Originally scheduled for last fall, it was presented on July 22 by Minister of Ecology and Sustainable Development. The text of the statement is available at:
What about the directions being taken in this act?
The first observation to make is that the resolute Mr Lepeltier is temperate. Indeed, the initiatives taken have largely been corrected and hampered by the Ministry of Economy and the industry.
Nevertheless, the goals attached to it are clear and precise.
However it is regrettable lack of resolution regarding:
- The pollution emitted by vehicles already in service, with a maintenance obligation and mandatory tracking-related sanction for technical contrôel;
- Road transport, it lacks a strong policy of reducing emissions from trucks, and a park rejuvenation policy controls / sanctions and taxation;
- the renewal of the fleet and transport of the state with vehicles called "clean";
- Renewable energy, with a development of the feed-in of electricity generated by individuals.
On the other hand, it is important to congratulate the extension measure of the "energy labels" to other products outside the elecroménager. This will sensitize the consumer on energy and pecuniary savings.
We bet that the resulting action will be effective, that it is not there an announcement effect for a green painting of the government.
Environmental lawyer engineer
For those who want a more critical and not necessarily constructive point of view:


A company called Dial4Light is giving municipalities the option to put their street lighting on the control of residents’ cell phones. Essentially, the street lights stay off until a resident requests them via mobile on a per-street basis. I think I have that right – a person calls a central phone number, requests a particular street to be illuminated, and it stays illuminated for 10-15 minutes, then shuts down again. The approach seems to be solving the problem of control before solving the problem of efficient sources.
From Dial4Light’s website:
Your local municipalityis responsible for setting lighting times for public lighting. Dial4Light® assists the municipalities via this website, through optimising lighting times, i.e. by matching them to consumer demand. Residents and municipalities benefit from this scheme. Lighting times can be adjusteded within about two months after Dial4Light® is first installed. This period is required in order to collect and analyse a wide range of data (switching times, switching frequency per route etc.).
I’m not terribly sold on this concept quite yet, but I can see some positive benefits from it – energy savings, light pollution decrease, and maybe lamp savings. I could also see some very negative benefits from it, like safety.
What do you think? Post in the comments, please!


text:
Oats Production in the Summer Rainfall Region
Oats have been cultivated in the past mainly for grazing purposes and hay production. Grain production of oats makes a limited contribution to the developing breakfast cereal market, with the majority of grain produced used in the animal feed market. Human consumption of oats is currently the only organized market, with competitive grain prices being paid for a product with suitable grain quality.
There are however other attributes of oats that are of importance. The introduction and expansion of no-till practices and reduced cultivation systems necessitate the use of suitable cover crops to achieve significant ground cover. Oats is suited to this scenario due to the wide planting spectrum, wide adaptability and high biomass production, and can be planted with available cultivation equipment. Furthermore, oats have a depressing effect on soil-borne diseases, like take-all, in these crop rotation systems.
Grazing, silage and hay production
Oat grain is widely used by horse owners and other producers in feed mixtures. Well-fertilized oats produce high-quality hay and grain with a high nutritional value. Oat grain that does not qualify for suitable grades due to low hectolitre mass values, is also utilized in the animal feed market.
Oats plays a significant part in a balanced grazing availability program, with several cultivars suited for this purpose. The wide adaptability, nutritional value and regrowth characteristics of oats ensures available grazing over an extended period. Planting for this purpose can start in February and continue up to July.
For hay production under irrigation, cultivars can be planted from March to June at a seeding density of 50 kg seed/ha. SSH 421, SSH 423, SSH 491, SSH 4185 and SSH 4186 can be planted from May to June at a seeding density of 70 - 100 kg seed/ha.
The local consumption of oats for processing in the cereal market is approximately 40 000 - 50 000 ton. Due to the low quality of oats grain produced (mainly of a low hectolitre mass), a major part of this local grain production is not suited for commercial processing and the requirement of the market is filled via imports. Local cultivars, however, like SSH 491 and SSH 4185 have the potential to produce the required yield and quality oats.
The quality standards applied at present are directly related to the processing of the oats seed. To develop an understanding of these standards it is necessary to briefly note the most important processes through which oats goes during processing.
Firstly all impurities and foreign material such as chaff, stones, weed seeds, wheat and barley are removed. The groats or kernel is the economically valuable part of the grain, while the hulls have no commercial value. The hulls are removed by two rotating milling stones that are set fractionally closer to one another than the thickness of the grain, and literally, rub off the hulls. It is thus understandable that the hulls of twin oats cannot be removed and that naked oats will be damaged in this process. After this process, the oats undergoes specific processing for the purpose for which it is needed.
Large and well-filled groats/kernels are in big demand by the processors and hectolitre mass is an indication of this quality aspect. The minimum hectolitre mass depending on the grade is shown. Just as in the case of wheat and barley, the hectolitre mass of oats is determined during the grain filling stage. Abnormal leaf senescence prior to or during flowering and grain filling due to malnutrition, diseases or stress, causes low hectolitre mass. The deficiencies must be corrected before the flag leaf stage to ensure a positive effect on hectolitre mass.
Grading requirements for oats
Grade Minimum hectolitre mass (kg/hl)
Grade 1 53
Grade 2 48
Feed Grade 38
Groats: hull relation
The oats kernel is enclosed by two hulls that are worthless to the industry. More groats and little hull are thus required and processors require no more than 30% hulls against 70% or more groats. This characteristic is generally also reflected in the hectolitre mass and is environmentally, as well as genetically determined. In shrivelled oat grain, the hulls make out a greater percentage of the groats: hull relation and in this case is undesirable.
During processing the oats grain is sieved into different class sizes. This process is done very accurately, as an important quality component of the end-product relies on the effectivity of the sieving process. The largest seeds are more desirable, while the smallest grains are generally worthless. Uniform seed size is thus ideal. As the largest seeds ripen first and tend to fall out first, it is important not to delay harvesting.
Twin oat grain often occurs. This characteristic is cultivar specific but can also be the result of environmental conditions and the harvesting process. Twin oats are undesirable as they go through the sieving process as large seeds and are later separated as two small oat grains that later cannot be dehulled. The harvester must thus be set in such a way that a minimum of twin oat grains is harvested. Naked oat grains are the grain of which the hulls have been removed in the harvesting process and are totally undesirable as they are separated into the small and medium seed sizes in the sieving process and are then ground, not dehulled in the dehulling process. The adjustment of the harvester is thus critical and requires special and specific attention by the producer.
As with wheat, planting date, fertilisation, pest and weed control, timely harvesting and correct adjustment of the harvester is of critical importance to produce grain of high quality. Locally available oats cultivars do have the potential to produce suitable quality grain and this potential must be utilized. General production practices for oats in the summer rainfall area are similar to that for wheat production.
Irrespective of the crop rotation system followed, the main aim is to accumulate the maximum amount of soil water, alleviate compacted soil layers and prepare a seedbed that will ensure good germination and seedling establishment. Planting activities of oats are similar to those of wheat with regard to planting depth and row widths used.
Seed treatments for oats
The standard seed treatments against seed-borne diseases must be applied in grain productions, while it is optional in grazing and hay productions.
Cultivar choice, planting spectrum and seeding density
The producer must decide on the end-market for the production, that being grain, grazing or feed. Cultivars more suited for grazing and hay production have different characteristics, and a cultivar for grain production must be chosen in correspondence with the needs of the buyer and end-user of the product, but also fits into the production system of the farmer. Once this decision has been made, plant the chosen cultivar and optimise all production practices. Use certified seed to ensure that the correct cultivar is planted according to the proposed end-user, and to ensure good germination and seedling establishment.
Characteristics of oats cultivars
Cultivars Grain yield HM Lodging Plantheight (cm) Crown rust Stem rust Main use
SSH 4185 High High Good 90 MS MS Grain
SSH 4186 High High Good 80 MR MS Grain
SSH 4187 Ave Ave Good 90+ MS MS Grazing/Hay
SSH 491 High High Good 90 MR S Grain/Hay
SSH 405 Good Ave Good 85 S S Grain
SSH 421 Good Ave Ave 90+ MS MS Grazing/Hay
SSH 423 Good Ave Ave 90+ MS MS Grazing/Hay
SSH 39W Ave Ave Ave 100+ MS MS Grazing
MS = Moderately Susceptible MR = Moderately Resistant S=Susceptible R=Resistant ?= Unknown
Under irrigation target plant population (plants/m²) for the early planting is 175 - 200, for plantings in the middle of the spectrum 200 - 275 and for late plantings 275 - 350. Depending on the specific seed lot and thousand kernel mass the seeding density can range from 60 - 100 kg seed/ha.
The seeding density for dryland plantings is 25 kg seed/ha. The planting spectrum is based on available data. Plantings outside this spectrum are at own risk after assessing the possible production risks.
Oats generally have similar soil requirements as wheat with regards to the macro and micronutrients (Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn and Mo) that have a major influence on production. Soil acidity levels of (pH 4.8 to 5.5 (KCI)) are regarded as being optimal. Oats are more acid tolerant (up to 15% acid saturation) than wheat, but less saline tolerant than wheat and barley.
Nitrogen management of the oats crop is determined by soil and nutrient management strategies including the previous crop, soil water availability, soil nitrogen availability, yield potential, the risk of lodging, the timing of nitrogen applications and nitrogen sources available for use.
For hay production under irrigation 100 kg N/ha is recommended, with an additional 25 - 50 kg N/ha after each grazing and/or fodder harvest depending on the level of production. For grain production, the general recommendation is 90 kg N/ha, 25 kg P/ha and 20 kg K/ha for a grain yield potential of 4.5 ton/ha. The general guideline is 20 kg N/ton grain for soils with a low organic carb content <3% and of high-quality residue are available for utilisation, apply 30 kg N/ton grain yield potential. Phosphorus is important especially early in the growing season for the establishment, while sufficiently available potassium can reduce lodging and ensure uniform ripening.
Under dryland conditions in the high rainfall regions, a general recommendation of 40 kg N/ha, 10 kg P/ha and 10 kg K/ha (optional) is used. A maximum of 20 kg N/ha or a total of 50 kg N+K/ha can be seed placed safely and higher applications must be banded away from the seed. The phosphorus fertilizer recommendations (kg P/ha) at the yield potential levels and soil analysis value (mg/kg P-Bray 1), as well as the potassium fertilizer recommendations (kg K/ha) at the relevant yield potential levels and soil potassium analysis value (mg/kg K) currently used for dryland wheat production can also be applied for oats production. Keep in mind that the yield potential of oats is lower compared to that of wheat under both dryland and irrigated conditions. The same fertilizer recommendations can be used for grazing plantings, with the option of additional N applications after grazing events combined with rainfall occurrence.
Diseases and control
Oats is susceptible to crown and stem rust, and to “Barley yellow dwarf virus” which is spread by aphid infestations. It is economically viable to control diseases at yield potential levels above 4 ton/ha. Diseases generally lower the kernel weight and hectolitre mass, and discolour the grain, resulting in downgrading of the product resulting in a lower price per ton grain.
Under movable irrigation systems and supplemental irrigation applications, the current recommendation is five irrigations during the growing season if production is started on a full soil profile. These irrigations are applied at 5-leaf, early stem elongation, flag leaf, flowering and during the grain filling stages. Under centre pivot irrigation systems, a similar irrigation management program as for wheat is used. Irrigation during the later growth stages tends to disrupt uniform ripening, thereby delaying harvesting. Similar to the other small grains, oats are susceptible to high temperatures and water stress during grain filling, and these necessitate well-timed and effective soil water management.
Harvesting, storage and marketing
Oats can be harvested at a grain moisture content below 20%, but can only be stored safely at grain moisture below 12.5%. Shattering in the field can be a problem, and rain during harvesting can discolour kernels, resulting in downgrading of the crop. There are various options (including cleaning and sieving) to improve grain quality parameters, especially hectolitre mass, to attain better prices per ton of grain.
Problems in oats production
Grasses in oats production can be a huge problem as it cannot be chemically controlled, and these grasses and volunteer wheat must be controlled beforehand especially if take-all depression is one of the production objectives. Lodging of the crop causes yield losses and non-uniform ripening and hence difficulties in timely harvesting and can result in reduced grain quality. Lodging can be managed by cultivar choice, seeding density and nutrient management. In particular, seeding density is a major factor with regard to the incidence of lodging. Because of the lower kernel weight of oats seed, lower seeding densities (kg seed/ha) are needed to achieve target plant populations. Cultivars also differ in tillering capacity that can influence seeding density for a yield target. Bird damage is also a limiting factor in some areas.
Adapted from ARC (2019)

domain: biology


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In a meeting coinciding with the Afghan Women’s Summit for Democracy, women’s rights activists from around the world issued a Declaration of Solidarity with Afghan women in support of the Brussels Proclamation. Women from Belgium, Croatia, France, India, Italy, Jordan, Morocco, the Netherlands, Pakistan, Palestine, Somalia, Tajikistan, Tunisia, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States, including representatives from the Feminist Majority Foundation, announced their intention to assist in the successful implementation of the directives outlined in the proclamation to help ensure rights for women and the stability of Afghan society.
Working with the Gender Advisor to the United Nations Secretary General and the Executive Director of UNIFEM, the group of international women agreed to advocate on behalf of the proclamation in their own countries, provide political support for the Ministry of Women in Afghanistan, and encourage the UN to recruit more women into the UN agencies operating in Afghanistan and the surrounding areas.
Media Resources: Afghan Women’s Summit, Declaration of Solidarity
9/28/2015 World Leaders Commit to Ending Gender Discrimination at UN Summit - This weekend, on the 20th anniversary of the fourth world conference on women in Beijing, leaders from around the globe met in New York City to discuss concrete and measurable plans for eliminating discrimination against women.
The plans were announced and reviewed by over 80 world leaders over the weekend at the "Global Leaders" Meeting on Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment: A Commitment to Action," summit co-hosted by the UN and China. . . .


Election Year Fuels High-Flying Gun Stocks
Gun stocks are soaring once again, and the fight for the White House is expected to help fuel sales in 2016.
Shares of Smith & Wesson (NASDAQ:SWHC) and Sturm Ruger (NYSE:RGR) have enjoyed huge gains since President Barack Obama’s inauguration on Jan. 20, 2009. Smith & Wesson’s stock is up a whopping 957%, and Ruger has rallied 1,078%. By comparison, the broader S&P has risen 135% over the same period.
Since the start of 2016, Smith & Wesson and Ruger have jumped 23% as of Friday’s close. Vista Outdoor (NYSE:VSTO), the owner of Savage Arms and ammunition maker Federal Premium, is up 18.8%.
Both gun makers have reported a recent surge in demand, thanks in part to uncertainty over the presidential race and fears that new gun-control regulations could be coming. Those concerns resurfaced this year with President Obama’s executive orders expanding background checks and the death of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia.
During an earnings call last month, Ruger CEO Michael Fifer called the run-up to the November 2016 election a “big opportunity” for sales.
“I think we’ll see a step up in demand if a Democrat wins the election, particularly so if they win the Senate,” Fifer said.
Meanwhile, the fight for Scalia’s seat on the Supreme Court bench will be closely watched by gun owners. Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, one of the finalists in the Republican presidential primary, has made the Supreme Court a central issue of his campaign in recent weeks. “One more justice on the left and the Second Amendment is written out of the Bill of Rights,” Cruz has warned.
“Despite whether President Obama is successful in appointing a Supreme Court justice, it’s more than likely, based on age and health, that the next president will get several opportunities, and that could drive concerns about gun rights,” Fifer said.
The prospect of new gun restrictions is a significant factor in the industry’s outlook.
After the December 2012 school shooting in Newtown, Conn., lawmakers at the federal and state levels pushed a variety of gun control bills. What followed was a sharp increase in consumer sales and an ammunition shortage that affected popular calibers. Background checks conducted by the FBI—a measure of consumer firearm demand—surged to a record of 21.1 million in 2013.
Global terrorist attacks, urban riots and early 2016 election wrangling contributed to another recording-breaking sales pace in 2015, which included a blockbuster December. The FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System processed 23.1 million checks to set a new all-time high, while 2016 got started with monthly records for January and February.
The industry believes gun sales will continue at a brisk pace through the rest of 2016. Last week, Smith & Wesson raised its sales and earnings projections for the second time in two months, and the manufacturer said it will ramp-up production to meet demand. CEO James Debney noted that background check data is showing “robust consumer demand.”
In its fiscal third quarter ended Jan. 31, Smith & Wesson booked sales growth of 61% year-over-year to $210.8 million. Ruger said its revenue for the final three months of 2015 rose 24% to $152.4 million.


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By Alison Noon
In the First Amendment/Public Records session at APME's 2011 Conference, the idea of concealing sources behind a veil of irrefutable public records is presented as an ideal alternative to a subpoena.
Contributing greatly to the discussion of public records in modern journalism is Rocky Mountain Investigative News Network Editor Laura Frank.
The importance of records, she says, does nothing to inhibit attempts to restrict access to them.
Post-September 11, 2001, the security of federal documents has been tightened because, in Frank's experience, some information is being withheld for the supposed conservation of the country.
Privacy laws, too, she continues, are popping up and, "seem to trump all others."
Perhaps, then, pin-needle sources cannot be concealed in a haystack of public records?
Frank's examination of this situation offers optimism for reporters who find themselves in it:
Although there is no absolute protection to keep a reporter from having to testify, she suggests that government is actually moving in the right direction for the American journalist. Among other things, information is being recorded not more accurately, but more regularly.
So, how can reporters remain protected while also safeguarding their sources? The First Amendment panel states that making all ordinary reporting within a journalistic institution a consistent practice will be a first defense again any subpoena.
Such "consistency" of note-taking varies across the board of Associated Press Media Editors, even within the panel.
Dave Tomlin believes fully in the protection of notes, majorly for the use of the actual reporter.
Frank admits that she keeps her most valuable notes under the stairs within her home. Fellow panel member Steve Zansberg half-jokingly offers that cleaning out the alcove once it reaches capacity, much like a desk drawer, could be a consistent practice.
Zansberg states that while notes may be an irreplaceable part of the storytelling and fact-proving process, cellphone recording devices and landlines (let alone their online counterparts such as Vocaroo) are not secure methods. Despite privacy laws, the details of a phone conversation, location, or data are easily compromised by government and police officials.
It appears to me, then, that truly safe and effective note-taking must be done in its earliest form: the mighty pen.


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Here at QAccounting, we’re often asked by contractors what our accountancy packages include. In other words, what do you get in return for your monthly fee and what are we able to offer that makes us different from every other contractor accountant out there?
As it turns out, we believe there are a number of things that help our accountancy solutions stand out. So let’s take a look at what you’ll receive when signing up to one of our three contractor accountancy packages…
Full service accountancy
We only offer full service accountancy packages, which is rare in this industry. By full service, we mean they include everything you need to meet your legal obligations as a director of your own limited company, and then some.
From company formation (if you’re new to contracting) to bookkeeping services, VAT, payroll, end of year accounts and even the annual self-assessment tax return, we’ll take care of everything on your behalf for one fixed and affordable monthly fee. There are no hidden costs and if your records are up to date, switching to QAccounting won’t cost you a thing.
Offering all-inclusive accounting for contractors keeps things simple for everyone involved and ensures you know exactly how much you’re spending. Irrespective of whether you’re new to contracting or a veteran of independent working, transparency helps everyone budget and offers peace of mind.
Genuine contracting experts
We were founded as a specialist tax consultancy for contractors over thirty years ago and we’ve worked with independent professionals ever since. Our Account Managers and leadership team are genuine experts in the space and understand the evolving tax landscape. We believe this gives us an edge, and assists us in developing a range of innovative accounting solutions made for the changing world of work.
Accountants with personalities
Believe it or not, not all accountants are robots. The team here at QAccounting are a friendly bunch and will go out of their way to get to know you, your business, its strengths and weaknesses. We don’t do this simply for the sake of it, though. It helps us get an understanding of what matters to you, which, in turn, means we can provide a service suited to your exact needs.
Part of a family of contractor service providers
QAccounting belongs to one of the UK’s largest contractor service providers, Vantage and Partners. Not only does this mean we are bigger than the sum of our parts, but it also allows us to provide you with more, for less. This is reflected in our outstanding value and the range of additional services that we offer as part of our Assured IR35 and Assured Plus accountancy packages, such as business insurance and market-leading legal services.
QAccounting is one of the UK’s leading contractor accountants. To learn more about our trusted accountancy packages, which start from just £95 per month + VAT, please request a callback – one of our friendly and knowledgeable contractor accountants will be in touch.
The article helps self-employed sole traders and partnerships to understand how basis period reform will impact their business in the 2023/24 transitional tax year, and what steps need to be taken to ensure they do not lose any brought forward tax reliefs and remain compliant!
The article outlines the typical tax payment dates and methods of estimating the values of tax payable for each type of tax, including VAT, PAYE, NIC, CIS, Corporation Tax, and Dividend and Personal Taxes.


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Sort by Position Name: A to Z Name: Z to A Price: Low to High Price: High to Low Created on Display 3 6 9 12 24 per page
In Essential Affirmations, Mantras and Decrees you will discover how to use the power of sound to harness spiritual energy. Create positive change for yourself and the world around you.
This pocket guide is packed with full color images of the chakras, the threefold flame and the I AM Presence. Enjoy simple explanations and mantras for clearing and sealing your chakras and aura. A great introductory book that works well with study groups or to pass on to a friend.
Saint Germain, through many lifetimes as alchemist, adept and visionary, found the priceless ancient formulas like the violet flame. He comes again, revealing some of that knowledge to mystics like you.
Learn how to use the violet flame to transform negative patterns of thought or feeling into light. Restore the joy of God to your world!
These keys to spiritual and material prosperity give you step-by-step techniques to unlock your wealth and abundance potential. Turn dreams into reality.
Learn the amazing story of ascended master Hilarion's lives as Saints Paul and Hilarion and his spiritual keys and insight for healing body, mind and soul.
Meet the ascended master Saint Germain, spiritual alchemist, through his lifetimes and key teachings on the violet flame and the 9 Steps of Precipitation.
Ascended Master Afra addresses how we can make a universal brotherhood of man a possibility—not as idle dream or utopian future, but here and now.
Ever think of building a relationship with an angel? You can work with angels (and archangels!) to bring about miracles everyday into your life and world.
Use these spiritual insights, powerful affirmations and chakra visualizations to increase your energy flow and restore your body's energetic balance!
An audio abridgement of the pocket guide Soul Mates and Twin Flames on 2 CDs. A new look at love, karma and relationships.
Learn 7 fundamental principles for using prayers, affirmations, decrees and mantras to generate spiritual energy and bring you closer to your Higher Self.

domain: literature


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Living up to his name, Mugly has won the title of World's Ugliest Dog.
Like many of the previous title holders, Mugly is a Chinese crested. It's a breed known for being mostly hairless and prone to a few conditions that can make the tiny dogs heavyweights in an ugly contest.
Fresh Air Weekend highlights some of the best interviews and reviews from past weeks, and new program elements specially paced for weekends. Our weekend show emphasizes interviews with writers, filmmakers, actors, and musicians, and often includes excerpts from live in-studio concerts. This week:
Jeff Daniels: Anchoring The Cast Of 'The Newsroom': The actor stars in Aaron Sorkin's new HBO drama The Newsroom, playing an anchorman inspired to give up fluff pieces and return to hard-hitting journalism.
Alan Turing was born a hundred years ago today. He was a British mathematician and computer pioneer, and may have done as much as any soldier or statesman to win World War II. And his work continues to reveal itself in our everyday lives. WEEKEND EDITION's math guy Keith Devlin joins us from the studios of Stanford University, where he's also a professor.
Keith, thanks for being with us.
KEITH DEVLIN, BYLINE: Nice to be with you again, Scott.
This is Weekend Edition from NPR News. I'm Scott Simon. It's time for sports. We're joined by NPR's Tom Goldman.
TOM GOLDMAN, BYLINE: Hi, Scott.
SIMON: And, of course, Jerry Sandusky was convicted late last night for the sexual abuse of 10 young boys. A longtime assistant football coach at Penn State, a pillar of the community, known for his charitable work. You were in State College to cover the story when it broke.
Though Title IX encompasses many aspects of education, most people associate the law with athletics. Title IX's been credited with opening competitive sports to millions of American girls and women. For more now, we're joined by Nancy Hogshead-Makar. She's a three-time Olympic gold medal swimmer, former president of Women's Sports Foundation, and she's now a professor teaching federal gender-equity law at Florida Coastal School of Law in Jacksonville. She joins us on the line from Kenilworth, Illinois. Thanks so much for being with us.
So if you wanted a moose to come on over and join you for a latte, what would you say?
ROGER LAMBERT: You've got to speak the language, that's for sure.
SIMON: That's Roger Lambert who's the master guide of Maine Guide Services and emcee of the moose calling competition because today moose callers from around the world - that's to say the state of Maine and one Canadian - will compete in the first-ever International Invitational Moose Calling Competition, part of a new festival that Rangeley, Maine is hosting.
This is WEEKEND EDITION from NPR News. I'm Scott Simon. The presidential campaign shifted focus a bit this week as President Barack Obama and Republican Mitt Romney both reached out to the fast-growing population of Latino voters. The two men spoke to a national gathering of Hispanic politicians in Florida. Immigration, of course, is an urgent issue after Mr. Obama's decision last week to try to stop deporting some illegal immigrants who came to the U.S. as children.
We get two perspectives on President Obama's policy shift on immigration and the election year efforts to reach Hispanic voters. Host Scott Simon speaks with Rep. Charlie Gonzalez, co-chair of Obama campaign and head of Congressional Hispanic Caucus, and former Lt. Gov. Kerry Healey, who served alongside Mitt Romney when he was governor in Massachusetts and is now an adviser to the campaign.
This is WEEKEND EDITION from NPR News. I'm Scott Simon. With the eurozone crisis well into its third year, the leaders of the four major eurozone countries tried once again in Rome to reach agreement on how to try to salvage the single currency. For the first time, the focus shifted away from austerity to growth and job creation. But as NPR's Sylvia Poggioli reports, agreement was not reached on how to end the sovereign debt crisis.
The soccer game - they call it football - between Greece in Germany in Poland yesterday was always about more than just sport. Of course, there's friction between these two countries because of that eurozone crisis and both sides said they'd try to set aside politics for the day just to enjoy the entertainment. Now, of course, as has been widely reported, Germany won the game. They head to the semi-finals of the European championship. NPR's Philip Reeves was there and he sends us this account of an unusual day.
Former Penn State assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky spent what could be the first of many nights behind bars Friday after a jury found him guilty of sexually abusing 10 boys over a 15-year period.
In Bellefonte, Pa., Friday night, a crowd outside the county courthouse cheered when the guilty verdicts were announced.
The cheers continued as Pennsylvania Attorney General Linda Kelly praised the investigators and prosecutors at her side.
Forty years ago, President Richard Nixon signed Title IX, which said no person shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from any education program or activity. Vocational education courses that barred girls — such as auto mechanics, carpentry and plumbing — became available for everyone. But it's still hard to find girls in classes once viewed as "for boys only."
Zoe Shipley, 15, has a passion for cars and tinkering with engines.
"It's just kind of cool to learn how to fix a car or learn about it," she says.
The Rio+20 Conference on Sustainable Development was the biggest United Nations conference ever, but it may be one of the biggest duds. It produced no major agreements — just a vaguely worded declaration that has been widely derided.
More than 45,000 people registered for the event in Rio de Janeiro, but diplomats couldn't even agree about the meeting's objective until 2:45 a.m. on Tuesday, just before heads of state and other high-level delegates started arriving in Rio.
There are more than 5,300 inmates at the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola. Nearly 4,000 of them are serving life without parole. Last month, the Angola Prison Drama Club staged a play unlike any other in the prison's experience.
The Life of Jesus Christ featured 70 inmates, men and women acting together for the first time — in costume, with a real camel, performing for the general public. For the untrained actors, this production held special meaning as they saw pieces of their own lives revealed in the characters they played.
The Midwest is known for its roadside attractions — world's largest ear of corn, heaviest ball of twine, biggest truck stop.
But it's also home to one of the largest collections of grottoes in the world. Most of these man-made caves were created by immigrant priests at the beginning of the 20th century. And the mother of them all — encrusted in $6 million worth of semiprecious stones — is in West Bend, Iowa.
This weekend, the Grotto of the Redemption turns 100.
Ever wonder why you worked so hard to avoid the lasagna at dinner only to give in to your craving for not one but two helpings of cake for dessert? Well, new research may hold some answers to this vexing question. A new study in the Journal of Consumer Psychology confirms what we've been - what we've known for some time, and that is each of us has an internal reservoir of self-control. We have a reservoir of self-control that it depletes. Every time we resist a temptation, we use a little bit of it up.
Title IX, which turns 40 on Saturday, has helped reverse years of bias, banning sex discrimination in federally funded schools and colleges.
Its guarantee of equal access to sports was a small part of the original legislation. But it's become the most recognizable part of Title IX. That guarantee has not always played out, and the law has its critics. For four decades, however, it's played a huge part in shaping lives.
Coming a week after President Obama announced that he would defer deportation proceedings for many young illegal immigrants, it was safe to predict that he'd get an appreciative response from an audience of Latino leaders. They didn't disappoint.
You may not have heard of the special-effects studio Digital Domain, but you've probably seen their work. They sank the Titanic for James Cameron; they aged Brad Pitt backward in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. Most recently, their virtual likeness of the late Tupac Shakur performed in concert.
Having worked those wonders, they're tackling thornier challenges: fur and feathers.


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by YouTheDesigner . December 5th, 2007
10 Free Printing Samples From 10 Great Printers
Requesting Free Printing Samples from online printers has many benefits for designers. These free print samples not only give you an idea of the quality of work of each printer, but its also a great way to learn and discover the wide variety of different printing techniques available today.
You get to see and feel first hand what different papers and card stocks look and feel like. This will really help you when you need to select options for printing jobs. I often dig into my box of printing samples to refresh my memory of whats available and which printers do what best.
Here is a list of some great online printers that I have gotten free print samples from:
YouTheDesigner is a graphic design blog under the UCreative Network. We do features; give away brushes, icons, wallpapers, and other freebies; and bring you the latest news in the world of graphic design.

domain: artistic


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H&M in global markets push as fashion chain eyes more stores around the world
Discount fashion retailer H&M detailed its strategy for a global expansion push that will see more stores opened and give it access to new online markets.
The Swedish group, which has enlisted David Beckham to model a new clothing range, posted an 11 per cent surge in annual profits to £682million for the year to November 30.
The earnings hike came despite continued tough economic conditions and price-cutting among its rivals.
Star power: David Beckham models a new H&M clothing range
Sales across its 245 UK stores rose 3 per cent over the year, boosted by an 11 per cent increase in the final three months – including a 10 per cent rise in December.
Group-wide sales lifted 13 per cent in the fourth quarter, up 3 per cent in stores open at least a year, and H&M said the new financial year had ‘got off to a good start’.
H&M opened more than one store a day in 2013 and plans to add another 375 in 2014, extending its footprint to Australia and the Philippines and launching online in countries including France.
Most watched Money videos
- Range Rover races through the 99-turns of the Tianmen Road
- Should you buy a petrol or diesel car: Here's how to decide
- New Jaguar I-Pace takes on Tesla in race against the clock
- Tips to invest your Isa - and why it is worth doing
- Take a look at the brand new Jaguar I-Pace prototype
- Jaguar I-Pace prototype smart cones driving test in Geneva
- Where are the best places to invest in 2018?
- Can emerging markets continue to climb? We ask a top manager
- Jack Whitehall stars in Jaguar I-PACE promotional video
- Big Money Questions: What is diversifying?
- Why has the FTSE hit record highs and can they continue?
- Big Money Questions: Does tax have to be so complicated?

domain: economics


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The stock of Silver Spring Networks Inc (NYSE:SSNI) is a huge mover today! About 329,885 shares traded hands or 58.62% up from the average. Silver Spring Networks Inc (NYSE:SSNI) has risen 2.59% since April 27, 2016 and is uptrending. It has underperformed by 2.64% the S&P500.
The move comes after 9 months negative chart setup for the $723.93 million company. It was reported on Nov, 30 by Barchart.com. We have $13.40 PT which if reached, will make NYSE:SSNI worth $28.96M less.
Analysts await Silver Spring Networks Inc (NYSE:SSNI) to report earnings on February, 21. They expect $-0.12 EPS, down 1,100.00% or $0.11 from last year’s $-0.01 per share. After $-0.02 actual EPS reported by Silver Spring Networks Inc for the previous quarter, Wall Street now forecasts 500.00% negative EPS growth.
Silver Spring Networks Inc (NYSE:SSNI) Ratings Coverage
Out of 8 analysts covering Silver Spring Networks (NYSE:SSNI), 7 rate it a “Buy”, 0 “Sell”, while 1 “Hold”. This means 88% are positive. Silver Spring Networks has been the topic of 13 analyst reports since August 6, 2015 according to StockzIntelligence Inc. The firm has “Buy” rating by Wunderlich given on Wednesday, September 28. As per Tuesday, February 9, the company rating was maintained by Wunderlich. FBR Capital initiated the shares of SSNI in a report on Tuesday, November 8 with “Outperform” rating. The rating was initiated by Williams Capital Group with “Buy” on Monday, November 28. As per Monday, September 7, the company rating was upgraded by Pacific Crest. The stock of Silver Spring Networks Inc (NYSE:SSNI) earned “Buy” rating by Wunderlich on Thursday, December 3. The firm has “Overweight” rating given on Tuesday, September 8 by KeyBanc Capital Markets. The stock has “Outperform” rating given by Oppenheimer on Friday, September 11. The firm has “Strong Buy” rating given on Thursday, June 30 by Raymond James.
According to Zacks Investment Research, “Silver Spring Networks, Inc. operates as a networking platform and solutions provider for smart energy networks. It enables utilities to transform the power grid infrastructure into the smart grid. The Company supplies hardware, software and services that connect devices on the grid that deploys metering, demand response, distribution automation, and distributed generation. Silver Spring Networks, Inc. is headquartered in Redwood City, CA.”
Insitutional Activity: The institutional sentiment decreased to 1.26 in Q2 2016. Its down 0.79, from 2.05 in 2016Q1. The ratio dived, as 17 funds sold all Silver Spring Networks Inc shares owned while 24 reduced positions. 27 funds bought stakes while 57 increased positions. They now own 38.38 million shares or 0.26% less from 38.48 million shares in 2016Q1.
Frontier Mngmt Lc has 0.1% invested in the company for 1.02M shares. Globeflex Cap Ltd Partnership, a California-based fund reported 19,339 shares. Citigroup last reported 4,034 shares in the company. Trexquant L P holds 0.08% or 50,295 shares in its portfolio. Allianz Asset Mgmt Ag has invested 0% of its portfolio in Silver Spring Networks Inc (NYSE:SSNI). Electron Capital Limited Co accumulated 439,250 shares or 1.32% of the stock. Blackrock last reported 0% of its portfolio in the stock. Friedberg Investment Mngmt holds 70,750 shares or 0.41% of its portfolio. Rhumbline Advisers reported 36,482 shares or 0% of all its holdings. Schwab Charles Investment Management has 0% invested in the company for 123,175 shares. Sei, a Pennsylvania-based fund reported 6,278 shares. Moreover, Bank Of New York Mellon Corporation has 0% invested in Silver Spring Networks Inc (NYSE:SSNI) for 1.08 million shares. The Colorado-based Arrowpoint Asset Mngmt Ltd Liability Company has invested 0.15% in Silver Spring Networks Inc (NYSE:SSNI). Tudor Investment Corp Et Al, a Connecticut-based fund reported 19,200 shares. Us National Bank De owns 6,422 shares or 0% of their US portfolio.
Insider Transactions: Since May 31, 2016, the stock had 0 buys, and 6 selling transactions for $830,155 net activity. Arnold Richard S. Jr. had sold 8,621 shares worth $128,453. Shares for $71,806 were sold by Reeves Donald L. III. Shares for $582,821 were sold by Weiss Warren M on Tuesday, November 15. 144,542 shares were sold by Lang Scott A., worth $1.92 million on Friday, June 3. The insider Gianella Kenneth P. sold 682 shares worth $9,821.
More important recent Silver Spring Networks Inc (NYSE:SSNI) news were published by: Wsj.com which released: “Former Intel Gadget Specialist to Head Silver Spring Networks” on September 02, 2015, also Fool.com published article titled: “What Investors Need to Know About Silver Spring Networks, Inc.’s Q3 Earnings”, Benzinga.com published: “Recent M&A, Backlog Strength Encouraging Signs For Silver Spring Networks” on October 07, 2016. More interesting news about Silver Spring Networks Inc (NYSE:SSNI) was released by: Businesswire.com and their article: “Entergy Corporation Selects Silver Spring Networks for Smart Grid Program” with publication date: October 06, 2016.
SSNI Company Profile
Silver Spring Networks, Inc., incorporated on July 3, 2002, is engaged in creating, building and deploying large-scale networks and solutions enabling the Internet of things (IoT) for critical infrastructure. The Firm provides a networking platform and solutions that enable utilities to transform the power grid infrastructure into the smart grid. The Company’s networking platform enables clients to communicate with devices connected to the power grid. The Company’s networking platform comprises hardware, such as access points and relays; its SilverLinkOS network operating software, and its GridScape management and security software. The Firm offers an array of solutions built upon SilverLink Network and Data platforms, including advanced metering, distribution automation, demand-side management, street lights and wireless Internet protocol version 6 (IPv6) network service for the IoT, Starfish.
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Out of stock
our vegan board is a crudites lover's dream come true. pairs well with one of our classic boards to cater to the entire crowd!
- hand-picked variety of fresh, local produce including celery, carrots, cucumber, zucchini, tomatoes & so much more!
- variety of seasonal produce including fresh berries, figs, strawberries and golden berries
- 16oz container of our signature green goddess tahini
- 16oz container of our beetroot hummus (large & extra large only)
- variety of nuts including pistachios, walnuts and truffled marcona almonds sweet sesame cashews
- variety of dried fruit including apricots, figs, citrus & more
- fresh, seasonal garnish such as rosemary, florals, pomegranate seeds, etc.
- add-on: 4 oz side of crackers or a bread & cracker board (feeds 8-10)
* all boxes come in a 100% recyclable mailer on a wooden board with removal & storage instructions as well as all necessary utensils to enjoy. does not include plates or napkins.
- please note: all recommended serving sizes are intended as appetizer portions. If serving the board as the main meal, we recommend ordering one size up.
- your beauty & the board board will arrive in a recyclable board ready for serving!
- please note: variety and quantity are paired up/down depending on size.
- all of our cheeses, meats & accoutrements are 100% american sourced with a focus on supporting small makers and artisans. products are based on seasonal availability and may often be substituted.
- all beauty & the board boards are made with fresh, quality ingredients. we recommend grazing within 24 hours of delivery to ensure freshness and quality.
- keep the board in the refrigerator until 1 hour prior to serving.
we currently hand deliver our boards 7 days a week with a minimum of 48 hour advance notice. for orders placed after the 48 hour window, and only if availability remains, your order will incur a $25 rush fee. we deliver within a 40 mile radius of zip code 33312. your delivery fee will auto calculate based on location. this delivery fee goes directly to our dedicated courrier team! in addition, we offer free curbside pickup for all orders and nationwide delivery for all diy gifts & other specialty items.

domain: food


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Art classes: "Laying cloth ikebana natural ", sensory exercises. Possibility of "DISCHARGE" emotions, getting acquainted with a new technique, i.e. combining different ones plastic and natural elements.
Art classes: "Crunchy creatures" Creating from material food with a variety of characters and creatures. Formation creativity, imagination, new opportunities for learning and fun. perfect sensory fun.


Following the epic conclusion to the anime series Steins;Gate earlier today was a mammoth announcement of a Steins;Gate Movie! This came as a huge shock to fans, but an extremely pleasant one at that.
So far, little is known about the Steins;Gate movie other than that it will continue on from the anime series. I personally believe it may be a cinematic adaptation of the second Steins;Gate visual novel game. But that is pure speculation on my part.
The announcement trailer has made it’s way on to the web and you can check it out below for your viewing pleasure. Be sure to let us know what you think of the upcoming Steins;Gate film by leaving a comment.


Delaware County Times
The Chester Republican Party named Shepard Garner its chairman Wednesday.
Garner, a former city councilman, will launch a grassroots campaign to “redefine the image and message of the party,” according to a press release announcing his new role.
The Republicans lost control of City Hall during the 2011 municipal elections for just the second time in more than a century. The Democrats won every race they entered and now occupy the mayoral and four council seats. As of the last municipal election, the Democrats held nearly a 3-to-1 advantage among registered voters.
“There is a youthful and innovative presence in the party that is ready to work and increase opportunities for Chester residents,” Garner said in the release.
Garner, an accountant at DELCORA, served as a councilman from 2008 to 2011. He lost a bid for re-election during the 2011 municipal election.
The Chester Republican Party Executive Board also includes Vice Chairman Monir Ahmed, Treasurer Thomas Moore and Secretary Trina Byrd.


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Surgical Scissors – Blunt & Sharp
These blunt & sharp tip straight scissors are ideal for everyday use and are functional in a variety of clinical settings and situations.
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These blunt, straight surgical scissors are perfect for daily floor use in everyday clinical settings. Made from sturdy stainless steel, these straight scissors are convenient and dependable, making them ideal for a variety of urgent medical situations.
Medical scissors and surgical scissors have unlimited applications in clinical settings. In fact, they’re such necessary items required for everyday operations in OR’s, ER’s, ambulances, veterinary care, teaching hospitals and a variety of other clinical settings.
Scissors like these are such a staple of the medical industry that it’s hard to imagine daily hospital life without them. Easy to clean, disinfect, and meant for long-term, regular usage. Scissors feature precision fingertip grips, for use even in the most delicate surgical procedures.

domain: medical


Shirley Chauvin Breaux
Published: Thursday, September 27, 2001 at 6:01 a.m.
Last Modified: Wednesday, September 26, 2001 at 11:00 p.m.
Shirley Chauvin Breaux, 75, a native and resident of Houma, died at 8:10 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 25, 2001.
Visitation will be from 5 to 10 p.m. today at Chauvin Funeral Home, and from 8:30 a.m. to funeral time Friday at Maria Immacolata Catholic Church. Mass will be at 11 a.m. Friday at the church with burial in St. Francis de Sales No. 2 cemetery.
She is survived by her husband, Walter "Chick" Breaux of Houma; one son Terry Breaux of Thibodaux; two brothers, Frank Chauvin and Myron Chauvin; one sister, Emma Cottrell; and two grandchildren, Kristi Breaux and Katie Breaux.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur Chauvin and Victorine Carlos Chauvin.
She was a homemaker.
She was a parishioner of Maria Immocolata Catholic Church.
Chauvin Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Reader comments posted to this article may be published in our print edition. All rights reserved. This copyrighted material may not be re-published without permission. Links are encouraged.
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Ekta Kapoor who is known for introducing new formats in the television industry.
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MLA Students Place in Top 10 in International Design Competition
Mo placed in the top three (professional category) for the entry, "Envisioning the Future Queen City: A Green-Blue Loop to Address Ecological, Social, and Economic Inequity," which focused on reimagining the First Ward neighborhood of Buffalo, New York. Li placed in the top 10 (professional category) for the entry, "Cleveland Sanctuary," which focused on revitalizing one of Ohio's major cities.
Entrants, who hailed from more than 75 countries, were asked to select a city and suggest a design intervention that "could radically improve its sense of place and quality of life for residents + visitors."
The submissions, according to the ArcDeck website, "varied from radical designs for cultural to social to environmental interventions within cities around the world—which was exactly what we sought while launching this competition."


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The piece of MDF that I’m going to paint. Edges are your enemy when going for a mirror finish. With this little block you can sand in the middle of the wood pieces of your case without hitting the edges until you want to. Any high gloss spray paint should work. How to Paint Wood (mdf) to a High Gloss Mirror Finish With a Spray Can – posted in Interior / Exterior / Paint – Detailing, washing, waxing,tricks of the trade!: Well I have been planning out my enclosure for my 15 DC XL and wanted something amazing that is really going to turn heads, I looked into suede, plexiglass, carpet, fiberglass. And decided on a combination of them, but Theonly part I didnt know how to accomplish was achieving that show car paint job, a high shine high-gloss. How to get a high gloss mirror finish on MDF or Plywood – posted in Sound Deadening & Fabrication: Hi all, This isn’t car audio related but I’m sure some people on here will have done this in their builds. First and foremost you need to get the wood sealed and smooth. Again myself I’d use a 2K direct gloss black paint as it gives the deepest colour and shine, but with aerosols you may find it easier to apply a few coats of black followed by a few coats of clear lacquer.
The finish is found on a lot of the European cabinets. It is a mirror gloss white over MDF slab doors. I am trying to get some advice on how to do this over MDF. KnowledgeBase: Finishing: General Wood Finishing Would you like to add information to this article?. I like the hi gloss black piano finish look and would like to try and duplicate it. Buy a piano and salvage the wood to make your box. Even the cheaper laquer paint, you can hand-polish them out close to a mirror finish. I work in the car audio custom installation industry and we finish MDF with high gloss paint frequently. Anyone have any ideas on how to achieve a high gloss piano black or other coloured finish to MDF? Im considering car sprays/primer and alot of sanding. Lot of work to get that ‘mirror’ finish. Then apply a coat or two of a good oil paint primer. Get the appropriate size piece of glass cut and use silicone caulking to bond it to a wood backer.
I am looking to make a stand out of mdf for a display in my business. im making it out of mdf as it would be a real shame if i made it out of oak and the glossed it. I want to get the high gloss finish that i see in places like ikea. im pretty jealous really as i have never been able to achieve that quality. Back in the 1970s there used to be this old bloke on the Humbrol paints stand at the DIY exhibition who had examples of furniture he hand-painted with Humbrol and it had a mirror finish. You can easily obtain a glossy finish by applying high-gloss paint. Meade Designs; How to Paint Wood (MDF) to a High Gloss Mirror Finish With a Spray Can. How do I achieve a piano black high gloss finish on wood? up vote 19 down vote favorite. 4. I’m building some speaker cabinets for my living room out of MDF. This usually means the paint was drying as it hit the surface, so adjusting the distance of the spray will help reduce that, which means less work with the sand paper.
High Gloss White Paint On Mdf
How to apply a high-gloss finish by hand, using abrasive polishing. And for beginners, hand-sanding and rubbing is less likely to burn or sand though paint and clear–it’s a safer route. I don’t have a wooden guitar, it wouldn’t still work would it? Paint Spraying MDF is not an easy process which could be done only by spray painting professionals in purpose built workshops. How to Spray High Gloss. I realized spraying MDF is nothing like wood. It is especially bad with gloss or metallic finishes. So what are you to do? Sometimes a project just NEEDS spray paint!. If I wanted a mirror like finish, I could sand the paint with high grit sand paper and finish it with a high gloss lacquer. High gloss spray finishing MDF, furniture, wardrobes and kitchen cupboards and doors. Spraying gloss techniques, final polishing, mirror effect on furniture surface. Will an oil based paint stick to it? Can I just use minwax high gloss polyurethane? I’d like to to finish them with a high gloss paint, but I’m not sure how to achieve it.
A Very High Gloss Finish
Capital Polishers Ltd – Paint sprayers, spray kitchen cabinets London, painting kitchen doors London, kitchen cupboards, kitchen doors, spray paint gloss. A sexy, glossy mirror like finish, lending itself to a contemporary styled kitchen. High gloss paint adds an upcharge, but high gloss laminate or foil doesn’t add much. Ever wonder how expert wood finishers get the mirror-like finish you find on examples of fine furniture? I want to reface oak cabinets and paint them white. I’m not looking for a high gloss finish, maybe a satin finish where the surface is smooth enough to write on without making marks in the surface. For the gloss base coat, should I wet sand the last coat before clear? I always get a smooth mirror finish, but that is only after curing for at least a week. I pretty much just use MDF or plywood for my projects – I’m not brave enough to try doing a real wood or veneer finish just yet Here’s my basic process for spray painting MDF, everyone’s secret recipe is a bit different, but it should point you in the right direction: (not sure if you’re using MDF, but should apply to most any wood) The basic process: (get ready for an information dump after this, haha) 1. Initially buying all the stuff can add up..wax, paint, wood filler, etc., but you usually get enough to last through several projects (aside from the paint colors and clearcoat specifically for the project at hand).
Plastic, metal, fiberglass, mirror, glass, wood, wicker, masonry, plaster, concrete, canvas, ceramics, MDF, laminate and particle board. Matte is very similar to flat paint, satin is akin to an eggshell finish, and gloss is well, glossy. Tell me about specialty spray paints, the metallics, hammered and stone finishes, high heat, chalkboard and frosted species. Would any exterior wood paint work? I’m not going for high gloss as it will be very hard to get a perfect mirror finish. If your looking at a high gloss finish then seal the mdf first,paint with 2 coats of fillet primer and sand flat then paint top coat but you will never manage this with a brush and roller.

domain: design


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During the course of this trek I will try and write daily updates – however if I can’t get a reception due to weather, electrical failure or poor equipment then I’m sorry in advance . I will keep the blogs so you might see nothing for a few days and then a stream of updates.
Continue reading “Bad reception”
Day 3 Chame (2710m)
As we set off on the trail for only our 2nd full days walking my legs felt really stiff- I had slept well the night before but as per my previous post it’s going to take a few days to get my mountain legs working again.
We pretty much climbed all morning following steep trails through green forests – the route seemed endless. On the side of our tracks we found fresh strawberries which were tempting however I was reluctant to eat them as I still have my sensitive European stomach.
Continue reading “Chasing the weather”
Where ever I travel to around the world I’m not keen on buying souvenirs from shops to remind me of a trip. There isn’t many shops at the North Pole but at the South Pole I have to admit I did buy a T shirt from the post office at the Amundsen / Scott base.
Continue reading “Souvenirs”
Day 2 and the sun is shining again – luckily I have bought my umbrella- people always laugh at me for packing this but it’s great if the sun is on you and you don’t need water proofs in the rain – not so good in the Arctic or on top of a windy mountain not matter where you are in the world.
I sweat constantly for the first 4 hours of the trek – I also feel unconditioned at the moment. My legs are tired and…well the list is long! The problem is everything you do is always tough at the beginning- all the students and scouts I speak to I tell them to persevere- stay in there and after a short while things get better – you make new friends or you understand more about your scout group or in my case you get fitter as the days go in.
I met a lady with a small chick in her shop – we sat and drank tea for awhile and played with the little fella.
Continue reading “It’s always tough at the beginning”
Early this morning we set off from Kathmandu through the dusty busy streets and onto the slow but open road. Slow because it all depends on how many cows decided to walk straight across your path or a gang of goats head straight at you.
Continue reading “8 hours in an oven”
I checked in at Heathrow yesterday and watched as my kit drifted away into the luggage hold – I had no choice but to lay my faith in the ai line that it would arrive in a place called Kathmandu after somebody switched it onto the plane in Delhi.
After I have 8 hours I walked through the newly built airport in India and boarded for Nepal.
Continue reading “KATHMANDU”


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Background context: The rates of pseudoarthrosis after a single-level spinal fusion have been reported up to 35%, and the agents that increase the rate of fusion have an important role in decreasing pseudoarthrosis after spinal fusion. Previous studies have analyzed the effects of local insulin application to an autograft in a rat segmental defect model. Defects treated with a time-released insulin implant had significantly more new bone formation and greater quality of bone compared with controls based on histology and histomorphometry. A time-released insulin implant may have similar effects when applied in a lumbar spinal fusion model. Purpose: This study analyzes the effects of a local time-released insulin implant applied to the fusion bed in a rat posterolateral lumbar spinal fusion model. Our hypothesis was twofold: first, a time-released insulin implant applied to the autograft bed in a rat posterolateral lumbar fusion will increase the rate of successful fusion and second, will alter the local environment of the fusion site by increasing the levels of local growth factors. Study design: Animal model (Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee approved) using 40 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats. Methods: Forty skeletally mature Sprague-Dawley rats weighing approximately 500 g each underwent posterolateral intertransverse lumbar fusions with iliac crest autograft from L4 to L5 using a Wiltse-type approach. After exposure of the transverse processes and high-speed burr decortication, a Linplant (Linshin Canada, Inc., ON, Canada) consisting of 95% microrecrystalized palmitic acid and 5% bovine insulin (experimental group) or a sham implant consisting of only palmitic acid (control group) was implanted on the fusion bed with iliac crest autograft. As per the manufacturer, the Linplant has a release rate of 2 U/day for a minimum of 40 days. The transverse processes and autograft beds of 10 animals from the experimental and 10 from the control group were harvested at Day 4 and analyzed for growth factors. The remaining 20 spines were harvested at 8 weeks and underwent a radiographic examination, manual palpation, and microcomputed tomographic (micro-CT) examination. Results: One of the 8-week control animals died on postoperative Day 1, likely due to anesthesia. In the groups sacrificed at Day 4, there was a significant increase in insulinlike growth factor-I (IGF-I) in the insulin treatment group compared with the controls (0.185 vs. 0.129; p=.001). No significant differences were demonstrated in the levels of transforming growth factor beta-1, platelet-derived growth factor-AB, and vascular endothelial growth factor between the groups (p=.461,.452, and.767 respectively). Based on the radiographs, 1 of 9 controls had a solid bilateral fusion mass, 2 of 9 had unilateral fusion mass, 3 of 9 had small fusion mass bilaterally, and 3 of 9 had graft resorption. The treatment group had solid bilateral fusion mass in 6 of 10 and unilateral fusion mass in 4 of 10, whereas a small bilateral fusion mass and graft resorption were not observed. The difference between the groups was significant (p=.0067). Based on manual palpation, only 1 of 9 controls was considered fused, 4 of 9 were partially fused, and 4 of 9 were not fused. In the treatment group, there were 6 of 10 fusions, 3 of 10 partial fusions, and 1 of 10 were not fused. The difference between the groups was significant (p=.0084). Based on the micro-CT, the mean bone volume of the control group was 126.7 mm3 and 203.8 mm3 in the insulin treatment group. The difference between the groups was significant (p=.0007). Conclusions: This study demonstrates the potential role of a time-released insulin implant as a bone graft enhancer using a rat posterolateral intertransverse lumbar fusion model. The insulin-treatment group had significantly higher fusion rates based on the radiographs and manual palpation and had significantly higher levels of IGF-I and significantly more bone volume on micro-CT.
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
- Clinical Neurology
- Growth factors


A bachelor's of science degree in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) plus one full academic year of graduate education in the specialized field; or, a bachelor's degree in a Electrical Engineering plus 3 years of applicable experience; or, a bachelor's degree in a professional Engineering field (BSEE/Computer Engineering (CE)) with a minimum of 5 years of specialized experience.
- Experience with computer networking.
- Experience with Electromagnetic Interface (EMI)/Electromagnetic Environment Effects testing in accordance with MIL-STD-461 and MIL-STD-464, or commercial EMI/E3 standards
- Experience with co-site/antenna testing and desensitization of radio frequency (RF) systems.
- Experience with communications interoperability testing.
- Experience with Army or USMC tactical or combat vehicles integration design development, design review and platform integration activities.
- Experience with the development of vehicle and network schematic (electrical, logical, and physical) and experience with the analysis of system architectures.
- Experience with data collection systems, system stimulation, and test equipment
- Experience with 4 of the 7 GFE Communication Systems and Communication and Security (COMSEC) systems:
- One of the following SINCGARS – VRC-8x/9x or VRC-110
- One of the following Multiband – VRC-103, VRC 114, VRC-116, VRC-117, or VRC-118
- High Frequency – VRC-104
- One of the following L-Band SATCOM – MT-2011 or RT-1981
- DoD encryption devices
Experience with 1 of the 3 GFE Applications:
- One of the following: FBCB2, JCR, or JBC-P
Experience with 1 of the 4 GFE Sensors and Electronic Warfare (EW) Systems:
- LRAS3 Netted
- Shot Detection
- U.S. Army EW System or USMC EW System
Experience with 2 of the 5 modern vehicles and vetronics systems:
- Electrical power generation
- Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J1939/Controller Area Network (CAN)
- Distributed power control
- Embedded control modules
BRTRC offers a competitive salary, exceptional benefits, and a professional work environment.


Graham Reid | | 3 min read
Age shall not weary them?
Guns'N Roses' 2008 album Chinese Democracy arrived 17 years after their previous album of original music and was so long-promised that some suggested China would get democracy before we'd get the album.
The Rolling Stones' recent Hackney Diamonds appeared 18 years after their last album of original material (A Bigger Bang in case you had forgotten).
You'd have thought – in their advanced years – the Stones and Gabriel (74 in a couple of months) might have felt the hot breath of haste on their cheeks . . . but no, they were clearly busy doing something -- or nothing -- elsewhere.
To be fair to Gabriel he did have some releases in that chasm of a couple of decades: eight years on from Up he released Scratch My Back on which he covered songs – with an orchestra – by Bowie (Heroes), Paul Simon (Boy in the Bubble), Neil Young (Philadelphia) and others.
Then there was New Blood (orchestrated versions of songs from his own back-catalogue) and live albums: Live Blood and Back to Front; Live in London.
There were other projects too (concert films), but no album of new music until now.
That said – and again to be fair -- every full moon this year he released a new song, which had been how he intended the Scratch My Back/And I'll Scratch Yours (the Scratch My Back artists covering his songs) to arrive.
Anything involving Gabriel seems to take its time, but now these moontime singles have been compiled as i/o (“in/out” or “inside/outside”, depending on what you read) which arrive on streaming services in a Bright Side Mix by Spike Stent and the same pieces given a Dark Side Mix by Tchad Blake.
There are also In-Side mixes on the expanded CD sets.
You wait decades for an album and then one comes along . . . in three different iterations.
That is a lot of intricately detailed listening – and looking too, there are commissioned artworks with each piece in one edition.
But people have given him the time: the album went straight to number one in Britain and top five in a number of European countries where he is revered as an artist and not just a pop singer.
So, as expected, i/o is full of fascinating sounds, percussion and profound thinking with a cast which includes Eno, longtime musicians Tony Levin (bass) and David Rhodes (guitars), string and horn players, a Swedish male voice choir, an orchestra and the Soweto Gospel Choir.
Despite that collision of talent, this rarely sounds crowded and Gabriel's distinctively snapping, menacing and yearning soulful voice remains central.
The Bright Side Mix of the ballad Playing for Time is classic Gabriel which becomes a heroic swell as he contemplates the passage of time, memory and love: “The young move to the centre, the mom and dad the frame. Any space, any time, any moment that we bring to life. Ridiculous, sublime”.
It sounds more agonised and resigned in the Dark Side Mix.
There's a lot of big thinking here, as on the inspirational Live and Let Live.
The philosophical title track places the singer in the greater picture of life (“stuff coming out, stuff going in, I'm just a part of everything”) and the skeletal and scratchy Dark mix of Four Kinds of Horsemen takes us back to his unnerving songs on his third self-titled solo album in 1980 (aka Melt, a longtime Essential Elsewhere album).
This is Home connects with his world music funk and ironically sounds brighter, more intimate and poppy in the Dark mix: “Here beside the churning sea a calm came over me, 'cause I know this is home. Home is where I need to be”.
There are some slight pieces here which get by on the arrangements and heavyweight lyrics, but over at least two and quarter hours, Peter Gabriel offers ample rewards in this banquet.
i/o is best enjoyed in small servings.


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Officials from the Georgia Department of Transportation will be looking at an intersection at Hart County which was the scene of a fatal car accident last month. An 81-year-old man was struck and killed as he was trying to cross the SR77 from the Lavonia connector in his vehicle. The intersection since then has been the focus of much scrutiny.
After the crash, State Rep Allen Powell requested the Department of Transportation to take a look at the intersection, and see how what kind of road safety enhancements can be made. DOT officials have confirmed that they will be looking at a number of factors, including the daily traffic at the intersection, the spots that see the maximum number of vehicles, and the accident history of the intersection over the past year. They will also look specifically into the fatal accident, including the cause as well as the type of the crash. DOT representatives will also be looking at traffic counts, but that will be done after summer has been ended, because traffic counts are typically lower during the summer.
That means that whatever the DOT decides, and any recommendations it makes, will only come after fall. Even then, it may be weeks and months before any steps are taken to enhance the safety of the intersection.
As we often see in cases where a design defect on a road has been responsible for accidents, there are a series of steps that have to be completed before installation of any safety devices. Even installation of traffic signals can take months of bureaucratic wrangles, while all concerned agencies are brought on board. Besides, even when everybody has agreed that the dangerous spot needs to have some enhancements, funding shortages may place the plans on a backburner. DOT officials tend to have a priority list for undertaking such safety measures. A spot that doesn’t find itself on the list may not be eligible for enhancements, no matter how much residents and motorists in the area find it dangerous.