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For discipling people, I like to use the analogy of rubber bands and shoelaces. People need both enough stretch (rubber bands) and enough support (shoelaces) to be able to move forward. One without the other is incomplete. People need to be stretched and challenged in order to grow. They also need the connectedness of being tied in with others for support.
The writer of Hebrews outlines the dual needs of stretch and support in the context of community:
Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful. And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (Hebrews 10:23-25, NRSV)
Let’s unpack this rich passage, as it has a great deal to say about how we are to disciple one another:
- “let us consider…” The word consider implies intentional thought about how to help another individual. We are to take our time, sit down and consider the best way to spur one another on, recognizing that it may look differently for different people.
- “how to provoke one another…” This phrase speaks to the very nature of community. Some translations use the phrase “spur one another on,” which implies both challenge and encouragement. Community is designed so that we might encourage one another on toward growth. That growth happens in the context of community, and we help move each other toward it.
- “to love and good deeds…” And toward what end are we spurring one another on? To love and good deeds. Not just love, not just good deeds—both. Here we see the highlighting of both the internal and the external, the being and the doing. That’s holistic discipleship.
- “not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some…” Consistent meeting together speaks to the intentionality of the relationships. In any community of people, relationships can fade out if we’re not careful. We need to be intentional about maintaining our discipleship community.
Too often when we think of discipleship, we think of the practices of an individual. Yet Jesus never intended discipleship as something to be done alone. What are some of the specific ways we can support one another in community—as rubber bands and shoelaces—as we go about our journeys of living as disciples of Jesus?
I personally think of three categories: relationships, environments, and processes. As leaders whose goal is to make disciples of Jesus, our work is to create the kinds of environments, relationships, and processes that facilitate discipleship.
- What kinds of environments facilitate discipleship?
- What types of relationships facilitate discipleship?
- What kinds of processes facilitate discipleship?
- And lastly, what can you do to make these types of environments, relationships, and processes readily accessible to anyone touched by your ministry who wants to grow in their walk of discipleship?
*This blog entry was originally posted on loganleadership.com.

domain: sociology


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br Materials and methods br
Materials and methods
Discussion Our results based on the Y2H analysis between the U-box-motif region of E3s and the UBC domain of E2s showed that, among 40 rice E2s, 11 E2s accounted for 70% of the interactions with 17 ARM-U-box E3 Ub-ligases (Fig. 2, Fig. 3). These 11 E2s belong to groups VI, VII, and VIII (Fig. 1 and Supplementary Table S1 and Fig. S2). Thus, a single E2 could interact with multiple ARM-U-box E3s and a relatively small number of E2s interact with a large number of functional ARM-U-box E3 Ub-ligases. This supports the Itraconazole synthesis that the rice system contains E2 hubs for E2–E3 interactions. There are significant sequence identities between rice group VI and VII E2s and human E2s that function as hubs for interactions with E3s . These results suggest that the human E2 hub system may be conserved in rice. However, Y2H results obtained in our current study were based on the interactions between the U-box-motif region of E3s and the UBC domain of E2s. Therefore, we could not exclude the possibility that interactions between full-length E2s and E3s would give rise to different interaction patterns. Unexpectedly, two group VIII E2s (OsUBC29 and OsUBC30), which lack the catalytic Cys residues in their UBC domain and have no Ub-conjugating activity, interacted with numerous ARM-U-box E3s (Fig. 2, Fig. 3). The human UEV protein MMS2 (UBE2V2) forms a functional E2 complex through hetero-dimerization with Ubc13 E2 , . Thus, future studies will examine if rice UEVs are involved in the regulation of E3 Ub-ligase activity by dimerization with other E2s. The rice SPL11 ARM-U-box E3 displayed distinct self-ubiquitination patterns based on its different E2 partners (Fig. 4). SPL11 exhibited poly-ubiquitination activity with group VI E2s (OsUBC14, OsUBC15, OsUBC16, and OsUBC18), mono-ubiquitination activity with group VII OsUBC25, and no activity with group VI OsUBC19. The interaction between SPL11 and OsUBC25 was relatively weak compared to other SPL11–E2 interactions (Fig. 2, Fig. 3). Thus, the mono-ubiquitination pattern of SPL11 with OsUBC25 may be due to the weak interaction. An alternative possibility is that SPL11 E3 and OsUBC25 E2 specifically mono-ubiquitinates substrate proteins. This possibility is supported by UBE2W, a human homolog of OsUBC25, that mono-ubiquitinates substrate proteins with its E3 partner , . A more detailed functional relationship between SPL11 and OsUBC25 remains to be elucidated. Arabidopsis COP10, which is homologous to rice VI E2s, lacks the active site Cys residue and is an inactive E2 . Instead of functioning as an active E2, COP10 interacts with other active E2s and enhances their Ub-conjugating activities. This suggests that seemingly inactive E2s may still participate in ubiquitination regulation. Similarly, rice group VI UBC19 E2 that also lacks the catalytic Cys residue interacts with several ARM-U-box E3s (Fig. 2, Fig. 3) without detectable E2 activity (Fig. 4). Thus, a possible function of OsUBC19 is interacting with other E2s during ubiquitination activity in rice.
Acknowledgments This work was supported by a grant from the National Center for GM Crops (PJ008152) of the Next Generation BioGreen 21 Program funded by the Rural Development Administration, Republic of Korea, to W.T.K.
Introduction The E2 enzyme is the central component in the transfer of ubiquitin (Ub) and ubiquitin-like (Ubl) proteins to targets in diverse conjugation pathways. During the ubiquitination of proteins, an Ub/Ubl is first adenylated by the E1 enzyme, and then transferred to a conserved cysteine residue on the E1 protein through a thioester linkage formed with the terminal carboxyl group of the Ub/Ubl. A subsequent trans-thiolation reaction transfers the Ub/Ubl to a conserved cysteine residue on the E2 enzyme. In the final step of the cascade, the Ub/Ubl is transferred from the E2 to the ε-amino group of lysine residues on protein substrates or the amine group of phosphatidylethanolamine in the case of the autophagy pathway (Ciechanover et al., 2000, Ichimura et al., 2000). This final step is usually mediated by E3 ligases that may function in one of two distinct ways: The HECT-like E3 ligases transfer the Ub/Ubl from E2 to an internal cysteine through a further trans-thiolation step before transferring it to the target, whereas the RING (U-Box) and A20 finger-type E3 ligases appear to only bridge the E2 enzyme and the substrate with the target lysine residues (Aravind et al., 2003, Ardley and Robinson, 2005, Wertz et al., 2004). The role of the E2 enzymes in the Ub/Ubl conjugation cascade, and the importance of the conserved cysteine shared by all catalytically active E2 enzymes in the trans-thiolation reaction are well-established (Berleth and Pickart, 1996, Dye and Schulman, 2007, Hershko et al., 1983, Pickart, 2001). The transfer of Ub/Ubl from E1 to E2 involves a nucleophilic attack by the conserved E2 cysteine on the carbonyl group of the Ub/Ubl-E1 thioester linkage (Pickart, 2001). Experiments have suggested that this reaction is primarily catalyzed by residues on the E1 protein in addition to the E2 cysteine (Wu et al., 2003).

domain: chemistry


text:
Welcome back to Anime Recipes. If this is your first time as a catchup, we look at food that we just cannot resist wanting to sink our teeth into. While some foods will be something that we are unable to eat, such as candy and brand products, other things we can. And thus, this series was born. We have covered sweets, breakfasts, bento and more, and this week, we are looking at an addition that can be added into just about any meal, but you often see it on the side of bento. What is it? Sakura Daikon! Let’s go.
Sakura Daikon from Dagashi Kashi
Sakura daikon is a bit different from a standard treat in that it is something not normally considered a treat but more of an offshoot of the concept of one. It’s not sweet and why it is technically classified as one is a bit odd. However, it is! Sakura daikon normally comes, like we stated above, in bento and its name comes from the pink color that it takes on. You have a few different ways that you can make it. You have the option of using umeboshi (pickled plums) or ginger, but the choice is yours. One thing is for sure, no matter how cute it may look, it is not sweet at all. Rather, it is very tart! The good thing is that this a very easy recipe to make and if you like it, it makes a refreshing small snack right after meals!
What You Will Need:
There is another way to make this with ginger. Just sub out the plum vinegar for slices of fresh ginger. Just note that the flavor will be less sour and will be a bit spicier.
How to Cook It:
1For starter, you need to peel the skin off of the daikon with a potato peeler. A knife works too if you do not have a peeler, just please be careful.
2Next, cut the daikon in half and then thinly slice it. The slices should not be more than about 2-3cm (1in) thick. If you cut this too thickly, it will not be able to absorb all of the flavor and you will just end up eating raw daikon.
3Next, line a plate with the daikon and then sprinkle salt on it. Let it sit for about ten minutes in order to give the salt enough time to draw out the moisture.
4Once ten minutes has passed, wipe the moisture off of the daikon with a paper towel.
5Place the daikon into a Ziploc bag.
6In said bag, add in the sugar, vinegar, and plum vinegar.
7Seal the bag and shake it while massaging the daikon in order to make sure that all of it gets covered with the vinegar and sugar mixture.
8Let the bag sit for about 30 minutes still sealed. Once done, you are free to dig in! Just don’t eat too much at once. The trick is to enjoy it in small doses.
(Note: Daikon is normally very easy to cut, but it is very wide. Be sure to maintain a full grip on the knife while cutting and be sure to pay close attention so that you do not accidentally cut yourself! )

domain: food


This blog belongs to a woman with lots to say on everything under the sun.
Let the riots begin.(I hope the blacks don't disgrace themselves with such stupidity)
If Zimmerman was not acquitted, it would have been a travesty of justice. I am glad the jury in this case were not like the airheads in the OJ case.Black America should look back at the O J Simpson trial and see if any non-blacks went on a rampage when a guilty man was acquitted because those handling that case made too many errors and the jury had no cojones to bring in a guilty verdict.Here's a list of the evidence that was available in the OJ trial and yet he was able to walk away after killing 2 people....and it was mainly because the media made it look like there would be full scale rioting if he was sent to jail.
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Celebrating Black History Month
Six Roses, David Boyce & Michael Cavaseno, take us on a musical journey with a solid performance of Jazz renditions representative of Black-American music.
- Musical Outdoor Storytime
- Tuesday, May 3, 2016, 10:30 am
- Bernal Jazz Quintet
- Wednesday, May 11, 2016, 6:30 pmBernal Heights, Bernal Heights Meeting Room
- The Tales of Hoffmann, by Jacques Offenbach
- Saturday, May 14, 2016, 2:00 pmNoe Valley, Noe Valley Meeting Room


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In the Obama administration — like the Bush administration — talking to the news media can be a firing offense. This helps neither journalism nor good government. The latest case is a top-level National Weather Service official who had the temerity to reveal that looming budget cuts would harm forecasting effectiveness (something that can affect public safety and the profits of business).
This despite President Obama's declarations of openness and the fact that it is illegal (message control and budget discipline — whichever party imposes them — seem to trump those considerations).
According to the Washington Post, the National Weather Service is firing William Proenza, who once headed the National Hurricane Center, for talking about budget shortfalls to the Post.
The Bush administration fired National Park Service police chief Teresa Chambers in 2004 for talking to the news media about her agency's budget; seven years later an appeals board ruled this illegal and reinstated her.
- "Weather Service Moves To Fire Official Who Criticized Budget Cuts in Post Interview," Washington Post, February 1, 2013, by Lisa Rein.
- Previous Story: "Chambers Reinstated; Talking to Reporters No Longer a Federal Firing Offense?" SEJ WatchDog of January 12, 2011.
This is one of the stories in the February 13, 2013 issue of SEJ's biweekly WatchDog. Find the rest of the stories and past issues here.

domain: politics


May 15, 2015
By Kenneth Harper, EBMS Platinum Recording Artist from Florida, 2 Pistols aka 2P, comes back on the music scene hard and with a bang. 2 Pistols is known for his 2008 hit single “She Got It” featuring T-Pain. He is definitely ba...
Also Available on iTunes “NEW SINGLE” Owey – Whoa bit.ly/OweyWhoa Music by Owey & Asco performing Im Living ©:Raw Entertainment / Seven Tre Music Group 2015


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domain: entertainment


text:
My sister is an amazing woman, a dedicated wife and mom, a brilliant beekeeper, vegetable gardener and a stupendous cook! But, well, I don't agree that Broad Beans are yucky ;) ... here's why we will always grow & eat them:
5 reasons to grow broad beans (and two bonus reasons which have nothing to do with their health or gardening benefits!)
1. Broad beans (fava beans, faba beans) are part of the legume family so they fix nitrogen in the soil. So here's my version of nitrogen fixing for the layman...nitrogen occurs in the atmosphere but for it to be of any use to plant, animal or human it has to be converted into ammonia in the soil which is the building block of all plants. This is done through their roots system. Once it is fixed in the soil, it is in a form now available for the next plants to use to grow healthy and strong. As runner and bush beans do not grow in winter here, broad beans are a good way to prepare the soil for the heavy feeding summer crops of tomatoes, corn and squash.
2. Broad beans are prolific food producers. The seed hints at the size of the plant and some of ours grow taller than myself. The flowers start appearing mid winter with the first pods ready to eat by late winter. By spring they begin to get rather starchy, particularly the ones you miss amongst all the foliage. By this time (September) we have hauled in basket loads from just two beds of beans.
3. Because of their massive yield they encourage the inner cook to find interesting ways to use them. I only cook with the tender ones now. They find themselves into soup, stews, shepherd pie and even good old Mac 'n Cheese like today. The tougher older pods are dried out and the seeds kept for next years planting.
4. Broad beans, being part of the legume family, are very high in protein. This makes them a great way for you to get protein in meatless meals. They do also have large amounts of tannin in their skins...the nutritionist advise that once shelled from the pod, they should be boiled quickly to remove the bean skin and just the inside eaten. Since we eat them young before they get to this hard bitter stage, I have never bothered with that.
2 bonus personal reasons:
1. Our rather skittish rescue kitten loves playing jungle cat in the tall broad beans. In fact, today when we were uprooting the now spent vegetables he was sitting in the centre of the patch rather indignant that we were taking away his playground!
2. The broad bean patch attracts snails. This is good on two levels. One, it keeps these critters away from other more delicate plants like my lettuce and, two, the snails are a great treat for my chickens who will munch a couple a day.
|"Oh, alright then, I'll play in the spinach!"|
|Happy chickens cleaning up after plant removal|

domain: agronomy


text:
(From the publisher):
Schiller's only novel, The Ghost-Seer
, is a fascinating, experimental and deliberately fragmentary work. Thrillingly held together by its dramatic plot and operatic setting, the novel mixes first-person narrative with the epistolary form to create a multi-layered fiction of deceptive simplicity.
With the help of his lavish and atmospheric Venetian location, Schiller elaborates the mystery of a masked Armenian and his ghost-seer accomplice, who appear to be leading a rich young German Count to his death. All is not what it seems - and like the apparitionist it debunks, the narration plays with metaphorical mirrors and narrative smokescreens. When the Count falls in love with a beautiful, anonymous woman, his companions suspect he is being duped for political ends. They, like the reader, must unpick the true meaning of the conundrum from a delicate balance of motive and theme.
Original title: Der Geisterseher
Genre: Fiction→ Crime and Mystery→ Detective Story and Detectives
Fiction→ Horror→ Ghosts
Fiction→ General Fiction→ Literary Fiction/classics

domain: library


text:
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domain: design


Tram Browning Black 1246-B NMO Trunk Antenna Mount Equipped with PL-259 Connector and 17 Feet of RG-58 Coaxial Cable
Introducing the Tram Browning Black 1246-B NMO Trunk Antenna Mount - the perfect solution for those seeking a durable and versatile antenna mount for their vehicles. This mount comes equipped with a PL-259 connector and 17 feet of RG-58 coaxial cable, ensuring a reliable connection for your antenna.
• Durable and versatile NMO trunk mount
• Equipped with a PL-259 connector for a reliable connection
• 17 feet of RG-58 coaxial cable included
• Perfect solution for mounting antennas on vehicles
• Sleek black design for a discreet installation.


text:
Edition 8 March 2019, by Stephen Swai
Regardless what you might think of him, there is a never dull moment when it comes to Klaas Dijkhoff, the party leader in Parliament for the People’s Party for Democracy and Freedom (VVD). With VVD leading opinion polls in 2019 and Mark Rutte not having announced his intention to run for re-election, is Klaas Dijkhoff a possible successor?
Politician of the year
Just last year, Dijkhoff was voted politician of the year in the annual online vote organized by current affairs television show EenVandaag. The poll caused great controversy, because all five nominees were men, and saw PVV leader Geert Wilders and GroenLinks leader Jesse Klaver coming second and third respectively. “The panel members felt that Dijkhoff really knew what the issues in the country were,” stated EenVandaag.
Dijkhoff has made a slew of statements that have drawn attention from the Dutch public, but caused polarization it at the same time.
Last year, Dijkhoff made headlines when he suggested that the Netherlands should imitate Denmark by introducing tougher penalties for people from “problem areas” with high crime rates. His “ghetto plan” suggested a string of measures, including compulsory pre-school education and tougher sentencing of criminals. He also backed the introduction of compulsory lessons in democratic values and traditions. “People that will not cooperate should face benefit cuts,” he declared.
In an interview with a newspaper, Dijkhoff said that integration had failed to give people the freedom they wanted. He urged the government to draw up a list of areas where non-western immigrant population stood at above 50% and where unemployment and crime rates were high.
Although his comments dominated the early part of the budget debate and pushed the opposition’s criticism of the plan to scrap the tax on dividends into the background, it was shot down by MPs during a debate on the government’s new spending plans. Socialist Party leader Lilian Marijnissen questioned whether Dijkhoff wanted an introduction of class justice and whether that same approach should be adopted for the Zuidas, the Amsterdam business district, where fraud is more prevalent.
Banning Sinterklaas demonstrationsIn December, a mob attacked a handful of protestors against a Sinterklaas procession by throwing eggs and hurling racist insults. Though Mark Rutte was criticized by MPs for his lackluster response in condemning the attacks, Dijkhoff took the opportunity to urge mayors to ban or relocate demonstrations during the Sinterklaas festivities in 2019. He saw the demonstration as an attempt to disrupt the children’s party and the long-standing Sinterklaas tradition. The Sinterklaas tradition has increasingly received opposition due to its racist practice of blackface.
Some regarded the plea for a ban or relocation of demonstrations as a futile attempt by a charismatic leader. Prohibiting demonstrations is at odds with the constitution. “The government must enable demonstrators to have an audience, which is not possible at an industrial site,” said Jan Brouwer, Professor of Law and Society at the University of Groningen.
Further elaborating on the impossibility of the idea, Brouwer pointed out that previous restrictions by mayors were reversed by judges. “Years ago, the mayor of Arnhem referred protesters to an industrial estate, where they were allowed to protest at 8 am on Saturday, which was later declared invalid by the court,” said Brouwer.
Climate change agreement
The relentless politician was back in the spotlight when he opened the 2019 election year by denouncing what he called the “dramatic” attitude of the coalition parties in regard to the climate change agreement. He said that he didn’t feel bound by the climate agreement that the cabinet had concluded with a number of social organizations and companies, since the common man had too little say in the matter. “If it’s a choice between the cabinet and the interests of ordinary citizens, I will always be on the side of the citizens,” he said.
Dijkhoff focused his condemnation of the climate agreement on the burden placed on the shoulders of the citizens, who would have to pay for its implementation. He said that the Netherlands should not aspire to be a ‘beacon of light’ for the world at the expense of its own citizens. His party opposed switching off gas in older homes and banning gas in new homes in the near future. Banning gas would help the climate, but would result in a bill of €200 billion for homeowners.
As if the whole thing was not dramatic enough, Dijkhoff decided not to show up to a parliamentary debate on climate change, with many political pundits calling it a divisive action that would cause a split in the four-party coalition. This energized the opposition, which celebrated the opportunity presented to them. The opposition MPs decided to boycott the debate because Dijkhoff was not in the house to discuss his comments. “He should be here to debate the damage he has inflicted,” Labour Party (PvdA) leader Lodewijk Asscher was quoted saying. D66 leader Rob Jetten saw Dijkhoff’s backpedaling as a political stunt ahead of the provincial council and Senate elections, and declared that he didn’t take the whole thing seriously.
Later, when he finally showed up for the debate, Dijkhoff said that the general idea in society, that the climate agreement would cause great upheaval, was not correct, nor did it contribute to support for the agreement. During the debate he changed his earlier tone and declared that the climate change agreement could bring some benefits.
Nuclear power plant
Dijkhoff also supported the idea of a nuclear power program. During a national kick-off of the VVD tour Stand-Up politics in the run-up to the provincial elections, Dijkhoff said that he thought a nuclear power plant in the Eemshaven was possible, if sufficient support could be obtained. He elaborated that that a nuclear power station in the Eemshaven should be built in consultation with the people of Groningen. “If there is no support, it will be more complicated. The Netherlands could also use more nuclear energy in the future by cooperating with other European countries,” he added.
According to the polls, there are chances that VVD might lose its majority in the Senate in the March elections. It is expected that climate change will take center stage during the election campaign. Right-wing opposition parties think the government’s climate policy is exaggerated and far too expensive, while opposition parties prefer a more ambitious climate policy.
Asylum children’s pardon
Dijkhoff was also at the center of the debate about the asylum children’s pardon. It all started when the CDA announced, supported by D66, ChristenUnie, GroenLinks and PvdA, that more children asylum seekers and their parents should be eligible for a residency permit. Dijkhoff and his party were firmly against it.
The children’s pardon applies to children who have been living in the Netherlands for five or more years without a residency permit and have become integrated into the Dutch society. Currently, there are about 700 such children. Figures from the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) showed that the vast majority of applications based on an earlier children’s pardon were rejected. In 2016 only one child was given a pardon out of 120 applications. The parties in favor of relaxing the children’s pardon said that the existing agreement was not working in practice and something had to be done to change that.
Initially, the VVD was against the extension, saying the coalition’s 2017 agreement had said that the existing regulations were to stay in place. “The coalition agreement is a foothold”, said Dijkhoff. After a reported stalemate, the VVD stance changed and it agreed to negotiate. The coalition parties agreed to reassess the cases of around 700 child asylum seekers who had not been given refugee status, but have become integrated in the Netherlands. However, once these cases are assessed, the children’s pardon will be abolished completely.
“We had to find a new balance and I think we succeeded. If you decide that you want to change the coalition agreement, we have to talk. The talks were good; it was about the content, because we know what’s at stake,” Dijkhoff stated. After the new agreement, PPV leader Geert Wilders called the VVD a group of quitters and cowards.
It is expected that under the new children’s pardon, about 90 percent of the children asylum seekers, that is, 630 children, will be allowed to stay. Their parents will also stay, thus bringing the total number of people who will receive a residency permit to 1300.
What is next for Dijkhoff? We will have to wait and see, but this is one politician with a plan.


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Deep silent powder, the days when you float down the mountain almost hypnotized by the quiet whisper of activity flying over the tips of your skis, these are the days that skiers dream about all summer. We havent experienced much of that so far this year, but its still just November. Until the big storms line up and move our way, cold temperatures have allowed snowmaking crews to expand the open terrain at Mammoth Mountain.
Laura Johnson with Mammoth Mountain reports that staff planed to open up Stump Alley Express this weekend. Panorama Gondola to Cornice Bowl is also expected to open up this weekend, allowing people to ride from top to bottom.
Johnson reports that snowmaking crews will continue their efforts to open as much terrain as possible. Work continues to build the Superpipe as well. Not bad, considering the 16 inch season total so far this year. Last year at this time 9 inches had fallen, according to the snowfall history on the Mammoth Mountain website.
Besides the 6 inches at the beginning of the month, November has been dry for Mammoth Mountain. Over the 39 Novembers listed on the Mammoth Snowfall History chart, 32 and a half inches is the average for the month, but there were four years with zero inches in November and 10 years with single digit totals for November. The record high was set in 85/86 when 115 inches fell in November. This year has not been a record high by a long shot, but not a record low either.

domain: news


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Plant of the Week 05/01/2021
Q: I have a couple of juniper trees that are turning brown. What is wrong with them?
A: As with most things in life, it depends!..... on what you mean by turning brown.
If you are talking about small brown sacs between green foliage, it is a male juniper that is producing pollen. If the foliage is brown and crispy, the tree could be dying from various causes.

domain: biology


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THE son of real estate tycoon Kwek Leng Beng has been named deputy chief executive officer at City Developments Limited (CDL), the property group said in a Singapore Exchange filing Monday morning. It also announced that it had found a new chief financial officer.
Sherman Kwek Eik Tse, 40, will assist the CEO, Grant Kelley, in overseeing and managing "key operating divisions" within the group, CDL said, adding that he would relinquish his positions as chief investment officer of the group and chief executive officer of CDL China.
It said he had "established a presence for the group in Japan and Australia, as well as spearheaded the expansion and development of the group's projects in China, helping to obtain prime sites in Shanghai, Suzhou and Chongqing".
The group also named a new CFO, Yiong Yim Ming, who had been senior vice-president for group accounts including subsidiaries and joint ventures.
Ms Yiong, 42, is taking over from the group's previous CFO, Goh Ann Nee, who resigned in January this year.
CDL also said that Mr Kwek Leng Beng's nephew Kwek Eik Sheng, 34, has been appointed head of asset management on top of his current role as CDL's chief strategy officer, and his additional responsibilities include developing and implementing asset strategies for the management of the group's asset portfolio "with the view to achieving effective and efficient returns".
These appointments took effect from Monday.

domain: finance


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Is there still some story telling in a photo if nothing but a gray overcast with fog, and as a result snow that looks gray, dominate the scene? At least I gave it a try last weekend during our annual ice fishing event with friends up in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. I was hoping for some great light moments, but they never came this time. One way to suppress the overall gray is to find some colors. The nicely stacked fire wood beside the cabin and a little bit of fresh snow draw the attention away from the gray sky.
In the second image negative space was used to depict the contour of the lake shore. In addition the dark spots of the slushy snow on the ice of Fay Lake tell the story of a gray and relativ warm winter day.

domain: artistic


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520. Fighting is Magic
Sameth on Feb. 11, 2013
This will probably be my last MLP comic. I've lost interest in the show and am kind of cutting all ties with it.
Though…I may end up keeping the figures for these random MLP comics that pop up. Dunno yet.


Interdisciplinary. Community. Advocacy. Humor.
One of Hagen’s most popular scarf workshops, the beautiful hand dyed and hand felted Airey Fairy scarf is possibly the best scarf in the world. In some circles of wise women, it is being hailed as the Wondrous Menopause Scarf because it is both cool and warm whenever needed. Once you take this class you will have the skills and knowledge to continue to make more scarves, larger shawl size or smaller head wrap variations at home. Students will begin the class by picking their roving from the instructor’s hand dyed fine Australian merino wool and then will learn how to lay out and hand felt the full length scarf in the traditional wet felted technique. All materials provided.
Date & Time: Saturday
9 a.m. – 4:45 p.m. (bring a bag lunch)
Registration Deadline: May 25
Instructor: Chad Alice Hagen, visiting artist from Asheville, North Carolina
Materials Fee: $25
For more information or to register, call Sherrard Bostwick at 412.261.7003 x25 or email email@example.com


Last night while watching the game, I let out the occasional yelp and squeal and cheer, as I am wont to do when I view sports (#geauxsaints). A dude friend of mine couldn't get enough of my outbursts. As he said: "I've never seen a girl invested in the outcome of a football game before." (With which I took issue, but that's not the point here.)
Because I don't think anyone working on the man-tastic, mostly banal, generally misogynistic advertising that aired during the game has ever seen a woman watch a sporting event, either. Masculinity was a major theme throughout the commercials, wherein men were encouraged to quit being such wussy turds and man up and BUY STUFF!
A number of commercials were no better, illustrating that, as one of my Twitter friends put it, "If a dude does things that make his partner want to have more sex with him, he's clearly a homo."


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I felt like the Chocolate Monster all day today! I could not get enough chocolate! When this happens I usually just go with it because you can’t fight the monster.
I started with these Andes mints. They were on sale and a really random buy, but I like them because they remind me of a restaurant from my kid-hood.
After digging into this Kashi bar I realized the monster would not be stopped.
So, I stalled it with hot chocolate. This method works okay for at least slowing the chocolate monster’s roll.
I roasted brussel sprouts and onions for dinner. Now I stink. I’m afraid I am going to smell like onions on my run tomorrow. Good thing I run alone! Gross.
I love brussel sprouts so this really was a “Bowl full of Jolly” for me 🙂 *I ate a bunch of cheese and crackers while roasting my veggies, which is why this dinner seems a little lop-sided 🙂
Oh duh, I ate lunch today. It was a turkey wrap with an apple.
And Stacy’s Pita Crumbs…Emphasis on the crumbs. For some reason Ben hates the crumbs and always accuses me of smashing the chips. I guess he doesn’t understand that the bottom of the bag is always crumbs?
I have a long run planned for tomorrow mornning. In the cold. Wish me luck. And warmth 🙂


Sources said that hopes of averting US trade sanctions due to be implemented on 22 March probably now depend on intervention at the highest political level, possibly during a meeting in Washington next week between Mr Clinton and John Major.
The US believes provisions in a new EC directive setting down common rules for procurement in the telecommunications, energy, water and transport sectors are unfair. It allows companies to reject bids for goods with less than 50 per cent EC-made content and includes a 3 per cent price preference for EC products.
America's retaliatory measures would exclude European companies from bidding for federal contracts in the affected sectors.
This week's talks followed an inconclusive first meeting last week between Sir Leon Brittan, the EC external trade commissioner, and the new US Trade Representative, Mickey Kantor. No further contacts are scheduled until mid-March.
In the area of telecommunications procurements, it was agreed at least to attempt to work for a deal based on mutual recognition. This would mean European companies being accepted as American ones in the US and American firms being similarly treated in Europe. Many details remain to be settled, however.
'I would say that on telecommunications we are considerably more advanced, but on the procurement issue as such you could say we are pretty much stuck,' an EC source said.
EC negotiators have offered to waive all provisions in the directive giving preference to European suppliers on condition that the US can guarantee 'compatible, effective and lasting' access to its market for Europeans.
The EC contends that various 'buy America' regulations in the US represent far greater discrimination than anything in its directive, with price preferences for US companies ranging from 6 to 50 per cent.Reuse content


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Fryer’s Roadside will reopen this fall with a retooled menu that will include smoked meats and other barbecue offerings from Money Muscle BBQ, according to a report from Eater D.C.
The popular fried chicken and soft-serve ice cream will remain on the menu.
All Set Restaurant & Bar and Money Muscle BBQ owners Chef Ed Reavis and Jennifer Meltzer announced last week that they purchased Fryer’s Roadside at 12830 New Hampshire Ave.
The restaurant was recently placed for sale with an asking price of $150,000, according to The MoCo Show.
“Chef Ed Reavis and Jennifer Meltzer, owners of All Set Restaurant & Bar and Money Muscle BBQ, are excited to announce that they have purchased Fryer’s Roadside at 12830 New Hampshire Avenue in Silver Spring, Md.,” the announcement reads. “The previous owners of Fryers, a roadside fried chicken and ice cream stand, recently announced that the one-year-old restaurant was available for sale. Effective Saturday, September 17, Reavis and Meltzer will assume ownership of Fryer’s and will close the existing space with plans to reopen later this fall. As fellow independent restaurant owners in Silver Spring, Reavis and Meltzer want to thank the previous owners, Steve Engelhardt and his partners, for their dedication to the community and neighborhood and assure loyal Fryer’s fans that they remain committed to serving great food to Silver Spring and Montgomery County at large. Follow All Set and Money Muscle BBQ on social media and online for updates and news on the new restaurant.”
Eater said that Fryer’s Roadside was an experiment by first-time chef Steve Engelhardt, a former bartender at District Chophouse and The Hamilton who took on a Popeye’s gig during the pandemic to practice his poultry skills. In spite of his novice experience, Washington Post food reporter Tim Carman praised Fryer’s Roadside’s “tasty” bone-in fried chicken and skin-on French fries.
Photo: Reema Desai / Courtesy of All Set Restaurant & Bar
We are expanding our coverage, and we need your help. Click here for more information.


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CF Industries is a leading producer and distributor of nitrogen fertilizers. The company operates seven nitrogen facilities in North America and holds joint-venture interests in further production capacity in the United Kingdom and Trinidad and Tobago. CF makes nitrogen primarily using low-cost U.S. natural gas as its feedstock, making CF one of the lowest-cost nitrogen producers globally.
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Seth Goldstein, CFA, is an equity analyst for Morningstar Research Services LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Morningstar, Inc. He covers agriculture, chemicals, copper, and lithium companies in the basic-materials sector. Goldstein is also the Chair of Morningstar's Electric Vehicle Committee.Prior to assuming his current role in 2017, Goldstein was an associate equity analyst covering the basic-materials sector. Before joining Morningstar, Goldstein was a senior financial analyst for Oasis Financial, a financial analyst for Berkshire Hathaway Energy, and a field operations supervisor for the U.S. Census Bureau.Goldstein holds a bachelor's degree in journalism from Ohio University and a master's degree in business administration, with a concentration in finance, from the University of Iowa. He also holds the Chartered Financial Analyst® designation.


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Fodor's Expert Review Place de la Grande-Paix
Old Montreal (Vieux-Montreal) Plaza/Square Free
If you're looking for peace and quiet, the narrow strip of grass and trees on Place d'Youville just east of Place Royale is an appropriate place to find it. It was here, after all, that the French signed a major peace treaty with dozens of aboriginal nations in 1702. It was also here that the first French colonists to settle in Montréal landed their four boats on May 17, 1642. An obelisk records the settlers' names.

domain: geography


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As many of you have probably heard, the infamous Mass Effect 3 did not exactly go as expected. Specifically, I am referring to the story’s ending. If you are a fan of the game or have been on any gaming forums recently, you would know that players of the game were very disappointed with the ending. Without spoiling the game, I will just say that the decisions you make throughout the story have practically no effect on the outcome of the game.
Angry fans ended up making online petitions requesting that BioWare, the creators of the game, change the ending. Although, at the time, it seemed as if this was just a waste of time, as it turns out BioWare may actually be considering changing the ending. They released a statement saying that they were seriously considering their fans concerns and that they will look into make a change to the ending.
I think that it is incredible that the fans were actually able to sway the decision of a huge company such as Bioware. It really shows that the power is in the consumer’s hands and not the company’s. I don’t really have an opinion on the games ending as I have only spent a small amount of time playing the game, but I am very interested in following this story and seeing what comes out of it.
So tell me what you guys thought of Mass Effect 3’s ending? Did you mind the way the story concluded or are you one of the thousands of gamers who added their name to an online petition requesting that Bioware change the game? Let me know in a comment!

domain: game


There are a host of other variables that may or may not affect the results that you obtain. For the sake of discussion, do you shoot three or five shoot groups over the chronograph. Will a new rifle require a different shooting technique to “break in” a new barrel; will such a process influence the final outcome?
My personal option is to shoot three shot groups, a statement that will no doubt cause headshaking by some who read this. Whenever this subject is raised those in favour of five shot groups mutter something about statistics and then move on. This raises another question.
Who decided that five shots groups should be the norm? Why not ten shot groups? Perhaps twenty! Could there be other reasons why five shot groups are larger than three shot groups? Could it possibly be that the speed of shooting causes extra barrel heating. Further, what about the increased amount of barrel fouling caused by the extra shots? In any particular rifle when exactly, do groups start to “open up” due to barrel fouling?
What I am suggesting is that five shot groups are nothing more than accepted opinion. Yes there are a lot of questions but if we are to achieve any meaningful results they do, I suggest, need to be investigated and answered.
The evidence of twenty five years of hand loading leads me to suggest that after ten shots, in some rifles, barrel fouling will cause a measurable increase of group size This increase would be of concern to a benchrest shooter, possibly to a long range shooter but not worry a hunter after bigger game. Is this the reason that bench rest shooters frequently clean their match grade, lapped barrels?
In addition the amount of fouling is, in my opinion, affected by the type of barrel steel. Is your cleaning process valid and consistent for a particular type of steel? It is possible that my current frequency of cleaning is, for testing purposes, incorrect. If we are really serious should we clean the barrel after each group to apply a further consistency to the testing process?
Is your barrel clean to start with? Are you sure that the group you shoot is reflecting the performance of the rifle and ammunition? Are you, the rifleman, sufficiently experienced to call each shot?
Is there in fact a solution that will allow for these variables so that the result obtained is meaningful? Do different powder and ammunition companies use the same standards to develop loads? Are there in fact any written standards?
Wind velocity is a constant problem that may be overcome by shooting either very early or very late in the day. If you do this it may cause chronograph problems. Temperature may also cause problems at a later time. If you have developed a load that does not exhibit pressure signs in winter there is no guarantee that it will be safe to use in the heat of summer.
Let us assume that you have a rifle with a clean barrel and a batch of suitable ammunition at a constant temperature. The morning is windless; you switch on the chronograph and begin to shoot. This raises the first question. Do you fire a single shot to “dirty up” the barrel before attempting to shoot a group? I believe that this is necessary as few rifles with a clean barrel will print a first shot in the same area as a dirty one. It may also be used to make sure that the chronograph is working correctly.
Do they always test under controlled conditions or are some of their tests outdoors? Can we, as handloaders, hope to duplicate the results that ammunition companies achieve?


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A “laser-guided shoe” that helps Parkinson’s disease sufferers walk without falling is among the medical innovations entered in a Dragons’ Den-style contest to win business mentoring for inventors.
Denmark-born Lise Pape, 34, was inspired to come up with her Path Finder shoe by her father’s illness.
Like many with the condition, he often experiences “freezing of gait” — a sensation that his feet are stuck to the floor — which can lead to falls and injuries.
The unsteady feeling can be helped by visual cues, such as lines on the floor, and Ms Pape, who studied innovation design and engineering for a Masters at Imperial College and the Royal College of Art, made a shoe that emits green light in front of the walker. Early tests suggest that it more than halves “freezing of gait” episodes.
The 14 products in the competition are in the early stages of development and 10 will be picked by a panel headed by science writer Roger Highfield for a 10-week “accelerator” course to advance them closer to the point of commercial production.
The event, organised by the Design Council and MedCity — set up to promote life sciences in London and the South-East — will take place tonight at the Royal College of General Practitioners near Euston station.
Cara O’Sullivan, 22, a Brunel University industrial design and technology graduate, was motivated by her grandfather to design a mobility aid. He suffered a sudden deterioration in his mobility last summer, requiring a walking stick, then crutches and finally a walking frame.
She said: “There was a big financial impact because each was only needed for a few weeks then just left in the corner. It was a waste.”
Ms O’Sullivan has devised a kit of interchangeable aluminium tubes and handles that allows physiotherapists and users to create an adaptable mobility aid that can halve the cost of conventional ones. It also means children can “grow with” the devices.
Other innovations include an electric plug for arthritis sufferers that can be used with one finger and a sophisticated medical alert system.
John Mathers, chief executive of the Design Council, said: “We have a fantastic pool of innovation talent in Britain — it just needs to be harnessed and this scheme aims to do just that.”
Dr Eliot Forster, executive chair of MedCity, said: “Good design is fundamental in creating a product that people want to use and is especially important when it comes to independent living.”Reuse content


Senior Congress leader Digvijay Singh today favoured giving CBI the opportunity to submit its evidence against Special Director of Intelligence Bureau Rajinder Kumar in connection with the college student Ishrat Jahan fake encounter killing case in Gujarat.
Singh said there has been an allegation that the Gujarat Police had carried out the fake encounter and investigation into it has been going on.
“There has also been allegation that some IB officials have done something wrong along with the Gujarat Police. If CBI has the evidence,they should be given the opportunity to prove them,” he told reporters here.
The Congress leader was responding to a question on CBI’s decision to summon the senior IB officer in the Ishrat Jahan fake encounter case.
CBI Director Ranjit Sinha has said the agency had enough evidence to back the summons issued to Kumar,a 1979-batch Manipur-Tripura cadre IPS officer,seeking to examine him again in connection with the Ishrat Jahan fake encounter case probe.
CBI had issued the notices to the officer under the provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure as previous examination of the officer was not satisfactory and replies given by him,the agency said,appeared diversionary.
Congress spokesperson Shakeel Ahmed said since both IB and CBI are orgnizations working under the Centre,things will be hopefully settled and the government will take into consideration the interests of both.


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Contact lenses are very comfortable and so easy to wear but they do require some looking after if not cleaned regularly and properly they can become unhygienic which leads to eye infections. To avoid any issues with your online contact lenses you just need to clean them and care for them properly.
While wearing online contact lenses when placing them in your eye and when removing them you need to handle them gently. Always wash your hands with soap and water to ensure your hands are clean and dry your hands thoroughly – if there is any soap residue it can cause irritation in your eye.
Always follow the instructions listed on the box and always only wear the lenses for the amount of time recommended by your ophthalmologist and NEVER share or swap lenses with anyone else.
Wash your hands before removing your lenses as this helps reduce any possibility of scratching the lenses always put 2-3 drops of lubricating drops into your eye to help make removing the lenses a little easier. Once removed if the edges of your lenses are sticking together place a few drops of solution on the lens and rub gently until they become separated.
Always clean and store your lenses properly, to sterilise pour cleaning solution over both sides for the specified time. Some lenses may need to be rubbed to remove protein; dirt, makeup etc so rub the lens gently with your finger and then use cleaning solution – as available from Lenses Online to wash off any dust and dirt. Don’t use tap water to clean your lenses and don’t mix cleaning solutions.
Once clean your lenses should be stored properly until they are needed again – before storing them fill the case with the prescribed amount of cleaning solution.
Never sleep in your lenses – remove them before going to bed. If you fall asleep with your lenses in tears can’t carry oxygen to your eyes, this will make your eyes dry and the lens can then stick to the eye making removal difficult unless you are using specific Night and Day lenses.

domain: medical


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Although soul music began in the 1950s, with songs like 1954's “I Got a Woman” — it was really the 60s and 70s when I got my groove on to people like Al Green, Marvin Gaye, James Brown and, of course, Ray Charles.
They are all here on this 10-Disc Collector’s Set features more than 130 live, uncut Performances from 1972-1980 – Many of which have never been available before – from the greatest soul singers of the decade including James Brown, Gladys Knight and the Pips, Al Green, Chaka Khan, Patti LaBelle, The O’Jays, Teddy Pendergrass, Spinners, The Stylistics, Bill Withers, Sly & The Family Stone and many more!
I’m sure, many of our subscribers remember watching Burt Sugarman’s The Soul of the Midnight Special. During those days, it came on after The Tonight Show starring Johnny Carson. Sometimes Midnight Special even beat Carson’s numbers.
Barry White once said, “The Midnight Special was one of the greatest music television shows that was ever done.”
Burton Roy Sugarman, 82, the creator and executive producer of The Midnight Special added “As historical documents, these discs are precious and irreplaceable. As pure entertainment, they’re gold. I watch these shows with ever-growing pleasure and feel certain you’ll do the same. I fervently believe that this is among the most sou-satisfying music made.”
Amen, I agree.
I found a lot of my favorites here like “Back Stabbers,” by the O’Jays; “Tired of Being Alone,” Al Green; “In the Midnight Hour,” Wilson Pickett; “I Want to Take You Higher,” Sly & the Family Stone; “Will It Go Round in Circles,” Billy Preston and the incredible late Curtis Mayfield with “Superfly,” “Freddie’s Dead,” and more.
In addition, Time Life has included a bonus DVD featuring “The Midnight Special Presents Marvin Gaye In Concert From The Atlantic Stadium,” a rare, historic live concert performance filmed exclusively for The Midnight Special in 1974 and available for the very first time anywhere. Also included in this completist’s set are 18 Bonus Interviews with top soul stars including The O’Jays, Gladys Knight, Bobby Womack, Patti LaBelle, George Benson, James Brown, Lou Rawls, Teddy Pendergrass, Quincy Jones and more, along with a collectible 40-page book, jam-packed with archival photos and stories about the stars.
If you are into soul music, as I am, this is a must own. www.timelife.com


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Apologies for the radio silence. DDoDH’s various contributors and organisers have been very busy in their working lives and consequently this website has been neglected. The last significant news is detailed below.
The Planning Inspectorate’s ‘consultation’ closed on March 12th. They will submit their findings to the Secretary of State on June 12th. In the meantime, we have been waiting for the lab results of the pollution testing we carried out in January and February. These are now available and we’ll be announcing them this week.
Meanwhile, the Open Floor Hearing at Deptford Lounge on February 5th 2014 was extremely well attended by an estimated 100 local people. Twenty of those stood up to speak in front of the Planning Inspectorate. Speakers included residents from Crossfields estate, Resolution Way, those living near St Paul’s Church, and Deptford High Street Community Garden Association. Dame Joan Ruddock was the first to speak (you can read her speech here).
You can listen to a recording of the hearing on the Planning Inspectorate’s website by going to this page: type ‘Deptford’ into the Filter box, click on ‘Next’ under the Filter box, then scroll down to the microphone sign at the bottom of the page where you should find ‘140205 WW010001 Open floor hearing Deptford Lounge’. They don’t make it easy!


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Saturday, August 23, 2014
the box, Agnes & orchids
Heck- I forgot to write about that box in the last photo- This is a wine box- wooden- you buy at the craft store. We are having a class this fall to make a box for our little BJD dollie. It will be scrap book paper on the outside and part of the inside- The doll will set in a fabric covered section, held with ribbons. OH I cannot wait to do this. I will make one for Alice 1st- then for my Asian doll, I will use origami papers to decorate hers. I will post the photos when they are done. I took a class at Small Studio this summer from Lynne Parrella. I have always admired her work. The class was called Type Face. The letters are blank wood and chip board letters from the craft store. We were to bring 2 faces to make 2 canvases in class. I brought my grandmothers- one was a wedding photo from the early 1920's and the other was an engagement photo from the 1930's. I only finished one - this is my father's mother's wedding photo. I am so happy with how it turned out. Her name was Agnes - hence all the "A"'s on the piece. Lynne was by far the best non-doll teacher I have ever had. She was just a joy and I am grateful to have had the chance to learn from her. These are my orchids. My mom died in January and the one with the flowers has been blooming since mid January - no lie. The other one lost it's flowers in July and now has 2 - yes 2 stems of buds coming up. It is unbelievable that they have bloomed so long. They usually last a couple months - but this is truly a miracle. Whenever my mom & I would buy orchids and the blooms were done on her plant- she did have the patience to wait for over a year to bloom. So I took the plant home and when it started to get a stem for a bloom, the plant went back to her to enjoy. It was a joke with us really - so it is so special that they have bloomed all year. There - that should be all the postings for a little while - now that I figured this out - I will post more often. Thanks for stopping by.


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Bearded dragons, scientifically known as Pogona vitticeps, are fascinating reptiles that have gained popularity as pets due to their docile nature and captivating appearance. Native to Australia, these lizards have unique characteristics, including their ability to change color, their beard-like throat pouches that puff up during displays of aggression or courtship, and their remarkable adaptability to different environments. Bearded dragons are diurnal creatures, meaning they are active during the day and require specific care to thrive in captivity. In this article, you will know about the bearded dragon fat pads.
Bearded Dragon Fat Pads
One aspect of bearded dragon care that is important to understand is the presence of fat pads. Fat pads, also known as adipose tissue, are areas of fat accumulation that can be found in various parts of a bearded dragon’s body. While some level of fat pads is normal and essential for their overall health, excessive fat pads can lead to health complications. In this article, we will delve into the significance of bearded dragon fat pads, the factors influencing their development, the health implications of excessive fat pads, and practical tips for maintaining healthy fat pad levels in your pet.
Understanding Fat Pads in Bearded Dragons
Fat pads in bearded dragons refer to localized areas of fat accumulation beneath the skin. These soft deposits of adipose tissue serve various functions in the reptile’s body. Fat pads are normal and necessary to some extent for a bearded dragon’s overall health. However, excessive fat pad development can lead to health issues and should be monitored closely.
Fat pads are commonly found in specific areas of a bearded dragon’s body. They are most noticeable at the base of the tail, where they contribute to a plump appearance. Additionally, fat pads can be observed along the sides of the body, behind the head, and sometimes around the jowls. Understanding the distribution of fat pads is essential in gauging their size and maintaining a healthy balance for your bearded dragon.
Purpose of Fat Pads in Bearded Dragons
Fat pads in bearded dragons serve several important purposes. Firstly, they act as energy reserves during periods of reduced food availability or appetite. These fat stores allow bearded dragons to survive longer without food, mimicking their natural adaptation to sporadic food availability in the wild. Secondly, fat pads provide insulation, helping regulate the reptile’s body temperature and protecting vital organs. Lastly, fat pads can contribute to the overall body shape and aesthetics of the bearded dragon.
Where Are Fat Pads Located on a Bearded Dragon’s Body?
Fat pads can be found in specific areas of a bearded dragon’s body. The most prominent fat pads are typically located at the base of the tail, giving it a plump appearance. These tail fat pads help provide energy reserves and support the reptile’s mobility. Additionally, fat pads can be observed along the sides of the body, behind the head, and sometimes around the jowls. The size and distribution of fat pads can vary depending on factors such as age, diet, and overall health.
Factors Influencing Fat Pad Development
1: Diet and Nutrition
The diet and nutrition of a bearded dragon play a crucial role in the development and size of fat pads. Providing an appropriate and balanced diet is vital in maintaining healthy fat pad levels. Bearded dragons are omnivorous creatures, requiring a combination of vegetables, fruits, and insects in their diet. Avoid overfeeding your pet with fatty or sugary foods, as this can lead to excessive fat pad accumulation and potential health problems.
2: Temperature and Environmental Conditions
Temperature and environmental conditions also influence fat pad development in bearded dragons. These reptiles are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. Inadequate temperature gradients within their enclosure can impact their metabolism and result in abnormal fat pad growth. Ensure that your bearded dragon’s enclosure provides a suitable thermal gradient, allowing them to thermoregulate effectively.
3: Age and Gender
The age and gender of a bearded dragon can affect fat pad development. Juvenile bearded dragons tend to have smaller fat pads compared to adults. As they mature, the fat pads may become more prominent. Additionally, gender differences may influence fat pad size, with males often developing larger and more noticeable fat pads compared to females. Regular monitoring of fat pad size and consulting with a reptile veterinarian can help ensure your bearded dragon maintains a healthy body condition.
By understanding the purpose of fat pads in bearded dragons and considering the factors that influence their development, you can provide optimal care for your pet and help maintain its overall well-being. Monitoring their diet, ensuring suitable environmental conditions, and observing changes in fat pad size will contribute to a healthy and happy bearded dragon.
Health Implications of Excessive Fat Pads
1: Obesity and Associated Health Risks
Excessive fat pad development in bearded dragons can lead to obesity, which poses significant health risks. Obesity in these reptiles can result in a range of health complications, including metabolic disorders, liver disease, and cardiovascular issues. The excess weight places strain on their internal organs, affecting their overall well-being and lifespan. It is essential to prevent and manage obesity in bearded dragons by ensuring a healthy fat pad size and body condition.
2: Impact on Mobility and Activity Levels
Bearded dragons with excessively large fat pads may experience difficulties with mobility and reduced activity levels. The extra weight puts strain on their joints and muscles, making it harder for them to move and engage in normal behaviors. Limited mobility can lead to muscle atrophy, reduced exercise, and a lower quality of life for the bearded dragon. Maintaining a healthy fat pad size allows them to move freely and carry out natural behaviors, promoting their overall physical well-being.
3: Breeding Difficulties
Excessive fat pad accumulation in breeding-age bearded dragons can lead to reproductive difficulties. Female bearded dragons with large fat pads may experience challenges in producing viable eggs or successfully laying them. Additionally, males with oversized fat pads may have difficulties mating and transferring sperm. Obesity can disrupt their reproductive cycle and decrease their chances of successful breeding. Maintaining healthy fat pad levels is crucial for ensuring proper reproductive function in bearded dragons.
Maintaining Healthy Fat Pad Levels
1: Appropriate Diet and Feeding Habits
Providing an appropriate diet and establishing good feeding habits are essential in maintaining healthy fat pad levels. Bearded dragons require a balanced diet consisting of fresh vegetables, fruits, and properly-sized prey items. Avoid overfeeding or feeding high-fat foods that contribute to excessive fat pad growth. Offer a variety of nutritious foods, ensure proper portion sizes, and consult with a reptile veterinarian or herpetologist to create a suitable feeding plan for your bearded dragon.
2: Encouraging Regular Exercise and Activity
Promoting regular exercise and activity is crucial for managing fat pad size and promoting overall health in bearded dragons. Create an enriching enclosure that encourages natural behaviors such as climbing, basking, and exploring. Provide ample space for them to move around and engage in physical activities. Regular supervised time outside of the enclosure can also offer opportunities for exercise and mental stimulation. Remember to provide a safe and controlled environment during these exercise sessions.
3: Monitoring Weight and Fat Pad Size
Regular monitoring of weight and fat pad size is vital in maintaining a healthy balance for your bearded dragon. Use a reliable scale to track weight changes and keep a record of their body condition. Observe the size and appearance of their fat pads, ensuring they are within the normal range for their age and gender. If you notice significant increases or decreases in fat pad size or weight, consult with a reptile veterinarian for guidance and assessment.
By understanding the health implications of excessive fat pads and implementing measures to maintain healthy levels, you can ensure the well-being of your bearded dragon. By providing an appropriate diet, encouraging regular exercise, and monitoring their weight and fat pad size, you will promote their overall health and minimize the risks associated with excessive fat pad accumulation.
Fat Pad Concerns
1: When to Consult a Veterinarian
It is essential to know when to seek professional advice from a reptile veterinarian regarding fat pad concerns in your bearded dragon. If you notice significant changes in fat pad size, abnormal weight gain or loss, or any other concerning signs related to your overall health, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian. They can provide a comprehensive examination, offer expert guidance, and perform diagnostic tests if necessary to identify and address any underlying issues.
2: Steps to Take if Fat Pads Become Excessive
If you observe that your bearded dragon’s fat pads have become excessively large, there are steps you can take to address the issue. Firstly, review their diet and ensure you are providing a balanced and appropriate feeding regimen. Adjust the portion sizes and consider reducing the frequency of high-calorie foods to promote weight management. Encourage increased exercise and physical activity to promote fat-burning and muscle development. Additionally, monitor their weight and fat pad size regularly, documenting any changes and adjusting their care accordingly.
3: Weight Management Strategies for Bearded Dragons
Implementing weight management strategies is crucial when addressing fat pad concerns in bearded dragons. Begin by assessing their current diet and making necessary adjustments to ensure a balanced nutritional intake. Offer a variety of fresh vegetables, fruits, and appropriately-sized prey items. Avoid overfeeding and limit the intake of fatty or high-sugar foods. Additionally, create an enriched environment that encourages physical activity and mental stimulation. Provide opportunities for climbing, exploring, and supervised time outside the enclosure for exercise. Regularly monitor their weight and fat pad size, making adjustments to their care as needed.
It is important to remember that addressing fat pad concerns should be done gradually and under the guidance of a veterinarian. Rapid weight loss or extreme dietary changes can have adverse effects on the health of your bearded dragon. Working closely with a reptile veterinarian will ensure that you are taking appropriate steps to manage fat pad size while maintaining the overall well-being of your beloved pet.
By knowing when to seek professional help, taking proactive steps to address excessive fat pads, and implementing weight management strategies, you can effectively manage fat pad concerns in your bearded dragon. Always prioritize their health and consult with a reptile veterinarian for personalized guidance based on your specific situation.
In conclusion, fat pads in bearded dragons play a significant role in their overall health and well-being. While a certain amount of fat pads is normal and necessary, excessive fat pad development can lead to health complications such as obesity, reduced mobility, and breeding difficulties. It is crucial to maintain healthy fat pad levels through proper diet, exercise, and monitoring of weight and fat pad size.
By providing an appropriate and balanced diet, encouraging regular exercise and activity, and consulting with a reptile veterinarian when necessary, you can ensure that your bearded dragon maintains a healthy body condition. Addressing fat pad concerns promptly and effectively will contribute to their overall quality of life and minimize the risks associated with excessive fat pad accumulation.
Remember to observe your bearded dragon closely, monitor their fat pad size, and seek professional advice if you have any concerns about its health. With proper care and attention, you can help your bearded dragon thrive and enjoy a happy and healthy life.
Read on: Can bearded dragons eat grapes?

domain: pet


Caterpillar, a brand name best known for their heavy machinery and equipment, has introduced the use of facial recognition technology for the trucks that belong to the mining industry.
These days, mining is among the largest industries that are involved in commercial transport, wherein you will see enormous trucks that are several times taller than the height of an ordinary person. These trucks are being used by the mining companies for hauling massive amounts of earth and rocks. Due to the immense sizes of these trucks that usually have tires that are as huge as 12 feet, these can be extremely dangerous pieces of machinery for the drivers to control and operate.
It is important for the drivers of these haul trucks to have complete concentration and focus on their task at hand during their operation since even the smallest mistake can accidentally put their lives in danger as well as the lives of the other workers within the mine sites. However, round the clock operation of the mine sites makes driver fatigue as a very real and crucial problem and this is where the latest facial recognition technology can come in handy.
The company’s consultancy branch, Caterpillar Safety Services, has teamed up with Seeing Machines, a tech company, with the goal of deploying the said technology in the massive trucks to facilitate detection of fatigue among the drivers.
This software that is installed in the heavy duty trucks make use of a camera, speaker as well as a light system for analyzing any sign of fatigue on the drivers, examples of which are closing of eyes and position of the head.
Every time a potential fatigue has been detected by the system in the driver, the software will then sound an alarm and forward the operator’s video clip to the 24-hour command center for sleep fatigue in the Illinois headquarters of Caterpillar. By this time, a safety advisor is going to contact the driver by radio and let the site manager aware of the incident, with a potential intervention to follow like allowing the driver to take the much needed rest.
Sal Angelone, the fatigue consultant of Caterpillar, said that this facial recognition system can scan for any sign of microsleep, or the involuntary and brief periods of unconsciousness that a tired driver usually experiences. However, the signals are being verified by the employees of Caterpillar at their designated sleep fatigue center.
Right now, Caterpillar is still at the early phase of implementation of this initiative and the company looks forward to expanding this further to cover around 38,000 trucks deployed in different parts of the globe.
The company is undoubtedly having a good head start into different types of technology while it continuously expands its business of heavy equipment. Last year, Caterpillar introduced Cat 540, a rugged mobile phone that has the capacity to withstand different conditions like high temperatures with shock and drop protection.


I have an older 73 boat that I am repowering I removed a Mercruiser 5.0 with the old triangular coupler. I got another much newer 93ish 5.0 from a local shop and bought the conversion coupler for it but come to find out it had a hole in one piston. So out I go for a new engine. I picked up a Mercruiser 260 that was advertised as being newer than i am now thinking it is. question is old engine had a triangle coupler the conversion coupler I had for the middle engine does not fit the new engine and the newest engine has a third hub style coupler that bolts to the crank studs along with the smaller flywheel (12") First what hub do I need to use second do I need to convert to a 14 in flywheel?
Also if any one could help me narrow down what engine I have it would be appreciated I have narrowed it down to about 82 through 86
all the info is
Mercruiser serial # 6774634
GM casting # 14010207


The countries of the Middle East continue to be an extremely attractive market for the automobile sector, thanks to strong ongoing economic growth and a flourishing aftermarket trade.
In a recent report, research firm Frost & Sullivan estimated that the total consumption within the automotive aftermarket in the GCC countries reached as much as $7.5 billion in 2012. With consumption worth $2.01 billion last year, the UAE was the second largest consumer market within the aftermarket in the GCC after Saudi Arabia.
According to Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of Epoc Messe Frankfurt: "Thanks to its superior transport and logistics infrastructure, the region serves as a key import and trans-shipment hub for the aftermarket trade that reaches across the wider hinterland in the MENA region, Iran and Central Asia, South Asia and Eastern Africa."
According to the Frost & Sullivan report, parts and accessories make up the lion's share of the consumption, totaling $4.51 billion. Tires and inner tubes were the next most significant category of the aftermarket consumption, being worth $1.49 billion in 2012. Lubricants and batteries made up the next biggest sectors, at $816 million and $715 million respectively last year.
Going forward, the aftermarket is expected to maintain a healthy rate of growth, with Frost & Sullivan estimating that Parts and Accessories, Lubricants and Batteries would grow at a CAGR of around 13 percent between 2012 and 2017, while consumption of Tyres and Inner tubes would keep pace with a CAGR of 12 percent over the same period.


text:
Browsing, discovering and organising life sciences training resources, aggregated from ELIXIR nodes and 3rd-party providers.
TeSS is ELIXIR’s Training e-Support System, developed by ELIXIR-UK, for disseminating, discovering and packaging training resources, primarily by aggregating information from ELIXIR nodes, but also from various 3rd-party content providers.
New technologies are generating huge amounts of life-science data, which scientists need to transform into new discoveries. However, few researchers have all the right skills to take advantage of this sudden data bonanza.
ELIXIR-UK is responding to this challenge by coordinating European initiatives to training research scientists in computing, statistics and bioinformatics. By plugging the skills gap, ELIXIR-UK aims to strengthen life sciences across Europe and set the agenda for future training needs.
Discover the latest training events and news from ELIXIR nodes and 3rd-party providers here
Browse the catalogue of training materials offered by ELIXIR nodes and 3rd-party providers.
Create training packages by grouping resources that address your particular training topic.
Create training workflows to visualise learning steps and link to resources specific to your training needs.
Browse training providers to discover training resources they offer and follow links to their materials and courses.


Newly inducted Jai Narayan College Head Prefects aspire to become leaders who will help lead the country one day.
Head Girl Esther Rosibula says she wants to be the change she wants to see in the country and wants to serve in the government in the future.
Rosibula says she wants to study Biomedical Science after completing Year 13 and hopes that her role as a leader in the school will boost her confidence and give her certain qualities that will help her succeed in her chosen field.
Head Boy William Fonorito says his future goal too is to serve in the government.
He says for now he wants to help the school in achieving a 100 percent pass rate and he wants to help as many students as he can academically.
Fonorito says he is yet to decide if he will pursue Commercial Law or Software Engineering after completing Year 13.ADVERTISEMENT Listen to the latest news on our 5 radio stations Legend FM, Viti FM, Radio Sargam, FM96 and Navtarang.


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Washington (Jan. 29, 2004) -- As part of the Justice Department's crackdown on illegal tax schemes, a federal court in Fort Worth, Texas, this week permanently barred an Oklahoma City woman and her company from promoting an illegal tax scam that targets African-American business owners.
The permanent injunction order, signed by Judge John H. McBryde of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, also bars Sherri L. Harris and her company from preparing federal income tax returns for others. The order was entered in a civil suit filed by the Justice Department last month.
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Thursday, May 22, 2014
Avetts' live set kicks off new season of "Front and Center"
Set your DVRs Avett fans. The Concord group kicks off Season 3 of Public Television's live music series "Front and Center" on UNC-TV at 2. am. Sunday, May 25. That's Saturday night/early Sunday morning following "Austin City Limits" and "Music City Roots."
The episode was filmed at New York City's McKittrick Hotel. Scott Avett calls the performance "The most intimate set we've played in NYC in recent memory." You can watch a clip of the band playing "Down With the Shine" from this week's episode.
Other artists featured on "Front and Center" this season include jazz musician Jon Batiste, British singer-songwriter James Blunt, indie-rock combo Grouplove, Grammy Lifetime Achievement winner Ginger Baker (Blind Faith, Cream), mysterious funk/R&B outfit Here Come the Mummies, and pop legend Cyndi Lauper celebrating the 30th anniversary of her breakthrough debut "She's So Unusual" among others.
For more information check out http://www.frontandcenter.com/.
Posted by Courtney Devores at 12:56 AM


No winning ticket was sold for the $60 million jackpot in Friday night's Lotto Max draw.
However, one of the six Maxmillion prizes of $1 million each that were up for grabs was won by a ticket holder in Quebec.
A lottery player from Quebec also won the draw's runner up prize of nearly 474-thousand dollars.
The jackpot for the next Lotto Max draw on Feb. 23 will be approximately $65 million, and there will be 10 Maxmillion prizes to play for.
The Canadian Press


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Is usher still dating grace miguel
8701 (2001) produced the number-one singles "U Remind Me" and "U Got It Bad", and top-three single "U Don't Have to Call".It sold 8 million copies worldwide and won his first two Grammy Awards as Best Male R&B Vocal Performance in 20.From US magazine: Usher’s wife-to-be’s ring is so massive, Page Six previously reported “you wouldn’t think it was an engagement ring because it’s so big,” after the couple were spotted ringing in the New Year together at E11even nightclub in Miami. The 36-year-old singer only recently started opening up about his longtime love. Usher is engaged to his longtime girlfriend and business partner Grace Miguel, sources confirm to Us Weekly.The couple have been together since 2009, following Usher’s split from his ex-wife Tameka Foster.PHOTOS: Celebrity engagements “She's happy but they're trying to keep it quiet,” an insider tells Us of the private couple, who looked cozy with one another at the Golden Globes Art of Elysium Heaven Gala in Los Angeles on Jan. Miguel’s ring finger was noticeably adorned with a giant diamond ring at the event.In 1994, he released his self-titled debut album, Usher.
Covers Blake Shelton's 'Neon Light' During Live Performance ET talked to Tameka last May, who admitted that she made "mistakes" in their marriage.
Usher started wooing Grace, an executive at his record label, five years ago, when he was 31 and she 42.
Grace was Usher’s product manager at the record label.
on Friday, Usher finally confirmed rumors that he and girlfriend Grace Miguel had a secret wedding back in September. “Congratulations to you,” Ellen De Generes exclaimed before informing the audience: “He got married! She’s someone who’s been able to support and understand all of who I am.
She has helped me through some of the hardest times in my life and my career.

domain: celebrity


EU leaders approve eurozone banking reform deal
EU leaders meeting in Brussels have given their backing to a common set of rules for managing the closure of failing eurozone banks.
Under a plan earlier agreed by finance ministers, a 55bn-euro ($75bn; £46bn) fund will be set up, financed by the banking industry, over 10 years.
The deal is aimed at building an EU banking union that should minimise the need for taxpayer-funded bailouts.
French President Francois Hollande said it would boost investor confidence.
"Now the European taxpayer, the French taxpayer won't have to pay anything if there were another financial crisis," he said.
Italy's Prime Minister Enrico Letta welcomed the move as "a big step forward".
On Thursday evening the leaders also agreed on steps to improve defence co-operation, including "the EU rapid response capabilities" and "more flexible and deployable EU battle groups". The European Commission has highlighted that there is too much duplication in Europe's armed forces.
Under the banking union plan, a new European resolution authority will be created, to decide when and how insolvent banks are to be closed.
The UK and 10 other non-eurozone economies are not part of the deal.
A resolution fund paid for by the banks themselves would gradually merge national pots into a common European fund.
The idea, says the BBC's business editor Robert Peston, is to minimise the collateral damage from bank failures.
But he says the fact that eurozone finance ministers have retained the powers to decide the fate of failing banks does not augur well for speedy action.
And the 10-year lead time will not reassure the creditors of Spain and Italy, for example, that they will not end up liable.
Moreover 55bn euros is tiny compared with the balance sheets of eurozone banks, our editor says.
EU leaders were keen to finalise a deal before new bank "stress tests" begin next year.
The European Central Bank (ECB) has been put in charge of eurozone bank supervision. The stress tests are expected to reveal that some banks are overexposed, and will require new injections of capital.
New banking union
- The first pillar of banking union will be the ECB's new supervisory body to monitor all 6,000 banks in the eurozone. Germany and some other countries want to retain their own high degree of supervision over smaller banks, which are reckoned to pose less systemic risk
- The second part is the Single Resolution Mechanism, to bail out or shut down problem banks in the eurozone
- The final pillar is a common deposit guarantee, setting an EU-wide deposit guarantee of 100,000 euros (£84,000; $138,000) maximum per saver. There will be a common rulebook covering bank accounts across the EU.
At the summit, UK Prime Minister David Cameron is expected to raise the issue of migrant workers again.
France has seen heated debate about the rules for posted workers - that is, temporary workers brought in from another EU state.
The lifting of labour market restrictions for Bulgaria and Romania next month has made the issue more acute, because of fears in some areas about "social dumping" - that is, cheap foreign workers replacing locals.