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Does CBD oil have any negative effects?
There is still little long-term data available on the negative implications of CBD. However, many short-term trials have found that CBD is well tolerated in adults across a wide range of doses.
To date, there have been no significant side effects to the central nervous system, or effects on the mood or vital signs of users.


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CatFish Show #138 – How do you do this again?Friday, February 20th, 2009
Today's show – MP3 or RSS feed – 30 mins Listen Now: What we have been up to! Some therapy that saved our marriage Facebook Terms of Use Recipe – Jerk Chicken Nachos E-mail opinions at cat (at) catfishshow (dot) com! Thanks for staying subscribed. Cat

subset: commoncrawl


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Jerome Oberlton, former Chief Information Officer of Atlanta Public Schools (APS) has appeared before a U.S. magistrate along with cohort Mahendra Patel to face charges of illegally receiving payments and using influence to defraud APS. Both men pleaded not guilty and were released on $25,000 bond.
The FBI, in a statement from the U.S. Attorney's Office, alleges that Oberlton and Patel were in cahoots to defraud the district over a period of time with Oberlton using his influence to award a $780,000 to a nonexistent company in exchange for kickbacks.
Obrelton and Patel have been indicted with charges of conspiracy to defraud APS, which could carry a maximum sentence of five years in prison with a $250,000 fine.
"What started as a friendship between Mr. Patel and Mr. Oberlton resulted in them lining their pockets with funds obtained illegally through kickbacks," stated Veronica Hyman-Pillot, Special Agent in Charge, IRS-Criminal Investigation. "We are committed to 'following the money trail' to ensure that those who engage in these illegal activities are vigorously investigated and brought to justice."
Oberlton's term with the APS lasted from June 2004 through August 2007 and he was in charge of APS's information technology program. Oberlton is facing charges of influencing the request proposal process and causing the winning bidder to be selected in exchange for a kickback for himself and Patel.
Patel was an acquaintance of Oberlton at the time.
"Abusing one's position of public trust for personal gain should not and will not be tolerated," said Mark F. Giuliano, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Atlanta Field Office. "The FBI, in designating public corruption matters as its number one criminal programs priority, asks that anyone with information regarding such activity to contact their nearest FBI field office."
In order to cover up the kickbacks, Oberlton allegedly created two shell companies, Global Technology Partners and later Global Technology Services.
The complaint alleges that Patel used sales commissions for non-existent consulting work from the shell companies to cover up his kickbacks and that the IT company involved paid Oberlton and Patel $60,000 each for almost six months while the company received almost $800,000 in APS project work.
Additionally, the pair have been charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering, mail fraud, wire fraud and conspiracy under color of official right. Each could see a maximum sentence of 20 years and a $250,000 fine. Oberlton also faces charges of bribery and money laundering, which each carry a statutory maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
"As the chief information officer for APS, Oberlton was entrusted with overseeing a program designed to centralize student data," said United States Attorney Sally Yates who told the United States Attorney's office. "Rather than ensuring that vendors were selected based upon what was best for the school system, the defendants are charged with using Oberlton's public position to line their private pockets."
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kurt R.Erskine and Jill E.Steinberg are presiding over the case.
Obrelton last served in Dallas as a school head as the city's school district chief of staff. He resigned from the position last week, after informing Dallas Independent School District Superintendent Mike Miles that he was under investigation and expected to be indicted. He joined Dallas ISD in January.
To stay updated on the case visit the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia at www.justice.gov/usao/gan.


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Rockin' and a Ravelin'
It took about five, maybe six, weeks until I received my Ravelry invitation. During that time, I was so envious every time I heard or read about someone joining Ravelry. I was not patient... Ugh! When will I get my invitation? Well, I can now proudly exclaim "I am a Raveler!"
For those of you still waiting for your invites...they will come. And, take it from me...the later the better...because once you get going on Ravelry, it will consume you. It will reach epidemic proportions. I swear, we're going to need a vaccine for this!
Now, it you haven't actually signed up to get your name on the list yet...run the other way as fast as you can! Just kidding...what are you waiting for? I've been bit...why shouldn't you?
I just opened up My Notebook for the first time over the weekend and I have already added
33 projects (you can access the rss feed to view some of my projects here)
5 queued
40 books
6 faves
4 friends
Yes, that's right...4 friends. Ravelry can make you popular...
They encourage "friendships" by pointing out other Ravelers with similar tastes to yours. And...the first of my projects that was "hearted"as a favorite by another Raveler...I ran in and shared the exciting news with my husband! "Honey, a total stranger just chose one of my photos as a favorite", I gushed. He just nodded. He doesn't get it. How could he? He is a man and he is not a knitter.
Oh, go ahead and laugh...but, just wait. If you are already on Ravelry, you know exactly what I'm talking about; and, if you're still waiting to visit this knitting Neverland ...this knitters' Utopia ...well, you'll see.
By the way, when you are in Ravelry, look me up. My username is IMKnittified...what else? (And, let's not even go into how appropriate it is to have a 'user' name...like it's a drug, which it is.) Anyway, give me a shout out. Let's be friends.


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The Commemoration of the Deliverance of Moscow From the Poles by the Kazan Icon was established in gratitude for the deliverance of Moscow and all Russia from the incursion of the Polish in 1612. The end of the sixteenth and beginning of the seventeenth centuries is known in Russian history as "the Time of Troubles." The country suffered the onslaught of Polish armies, which scoffed at the Orthodox Faith, plundering and burning churches, cities and villages. Through deceit they succeeded in taking Moscow. In response to the appeal of His Holiness Patriarch Hermogenes (May 12), the Russian people rose up in defense of its native land. From Kazan, the wonderworking icon of the Mother of God was sent to the army headed by Prince Demetrius Pozharsky.
St Demetrius of Rostov (September 21), in his Discourse on the Day of Appearance of the Icon of the Mother of God at Kazan (July 8), said:
"The Mother of God delivered from misfortune and woe not only the righteous, but also sinners, but which sinners? those who turn themselves to the Heavenly Father like the Prodigal Son, they make lamentation beating their bosom, like the Publican, they weep at the feet of Christ, like the Sinful Woman washing His feet with her tears, and they offer forth confession of Him, like the Thief upon the Cross. It is such sinners whom the All-Pure Mother of God heeds and hastens to aid, delivering them from great misfortunes and woe."
Knowing that they suffered such misfortunes for their sins, the whole nation and the militia imposed upon themselves a three-day fast. With prayer, they turned to the Lord and His All-Pure Mother for help. The prayer was heard. St Sergius of Radonezh appeared to St Arsenius (afterwards Bishop of Suzdal) and said that if Moscow were to be saved, then people must pray to the Most Holy Virgin. Emboldened by the news, Russian forces on October 22, 1612 liberated Moscow from the Polish usurpers. A celebration in honor of the Kazan Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos was established in 1649. Even in own day this icon is especially revered by the Russian Orthodox nation.
The Kazan Icon is also commemorated on July 21 (8).


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The Treacherous Orchestra, 11 piece high energy folk band from Scotland, Ska sensations Esperanza and American folk blues band Harry and the Henderson to play at this year main concert in the Victoria Hall.
Gaelic supergroup Daimh will headline the Traditional concert in the Heritage Centre and Argyll ceilidh favourite Fergie MacDonald returns to Campbeltown's Friday night Festival Ceilidh.
Mitchell's Glengyle Dalriada Connections concert on Sunday headlines with two vocal and instrumental duos; Tom Callister and Adam Rhodes from the Isle of Man and The Carrivick Sisters from Cornwall.
Survivors Night headlines with Slainte Davaar Allstars and features the return of the Wee Toon Tellers return to Survivors Night for the first time since 2010.
Other artists appearing over the weekend include, Jenn Butterworth & Laura Beth Salter, Scooter Muse with Jil Chambless and friends, Gilchristians, Ciaran Mulholland, Lorne MacDougall, Dalriada Connections Band, Kintyre Schools Pipe Band, Il Brasso, Deep Joy, The Democrats, Session A83, more bands still to be announced.


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Penny Lane
Delaware Winter Festivals and Events
Delaware's historic towns and charming nooks come alive during the holiday season, thanks to Yuletide tours, dazzling light displays, stage classics, festive parades and other events that capture the joy and spirit celebrated each year in the First State. Winter festivals and events in Delaware take place from early November through the first week of January and include holiday-themed exhibits at museums like Hagley Museum and Winterthur Museum, Garden, and Library; house tours in historic Lewes and Odessa; and parades in towns both large (Wilmington) and small (Milton). And while Delaware's beaches are known as the capital of summer fun, the town of Rehoboth offers one of the state's most iconic symbols of the season when it lights its 30-foot tree.
Use the below listings to search for winter season festivals and events.


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Info Agency Main Banner Content
July 24, 2009 Webcast
Submit your questions to the Vote Indiana Team here
July 24, 2009- Indiana Secretary of State, Todd Rokita presided over the fifth in a series of meetings of the Vote Indiana Team (VIT). VIT is a group of government and community leaders being reconvened to evaluate and update Indiana's State Plan to Implement the Help America Vote Act of 2002 (HAVA).
Public Comment Invited on Changes to State HAVA Plan:
The Secretary of State submitted proposed changes to Indiana's Help America Vote Act Plan for public comment on July 29, 2009. To see these changes, click here. Your comments regarding these changes are welcome. Please send comments to the chair of the Vote Indiana Team in writing at the following address:
Todd Rokita
Indiana Secretary of State
200 West Washington Street, Room 201
Indianapolis, Indiana 46204
or by email to the HAVA Administrator. You may also leave comments on the proposed changes at 317-234-VOTE or by contacting the Indiana Election Division toll free in Indiana at 800-622-4941(TDD). You may fax comments to 317-233-3283.
The deadline to receive your comments is 5:00 p.m., Indianapolis time,
Friday, August 28, 2009.
HAVA State Plan Draft 07-28-09 Final Edits.pdf
Thank you.


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In the Blog
Shameless Silent Auction fundraiser gala: Monday, December 9!
Shameless magazine is holding its second annual silent auction and fundraising gala! We hope you can join us for an amazing evening in support of Shameless, an award-winning progressive magazine for teen girls and trans youth.
Come bid on some incredible items, enjoy excellent music (featuring DJ Betti Forde), food (courtesy of the Afghan Women's Catering Group) and drinks (with thanks to Black Oak Beer) and help support our volunteer-run magazine for teen girls and trans youth.
When: Monday, December 9, 2013 Where: Centre for Social Innovation, Annex (720 Bathurst Street, Toronto), in the ING Direct Lounge Time: 6:00-9:00 pm Venue is accessible. ASL interpretation will be available.
Every dollar we raise from the auction goes directly to funding Shameless magazine, helping fuel our mission to bring needed alternative voices to the media landscape.
Tickets are $20, and can be bought online or at the door.
We're pleased to welcome Susan G. Cole and Alice Klein, both of Now magazine, as keynote speakers at this event. The evening will be hosted by Andrea Houston of DailyXtra.
Some of the amazing items available for bid include:
Orchestra tickets from Tafelmusik A personalized cartoon portrait from Evan Munday E-readers from Kobo A coffee date with author Zoe Whittall Matchmaking services from Friend of a Friend Matchmaking A custom skateboard from Oasis Skateboard Factory
and much, much more!
We'd like to give a special thank-you to our generous sponsor, the Canadian Media Guild.
We hope you can join us on December 9th!


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From satellite tracking to GPS to geocaching, the world is hooked on technology. It's not impossible to imagine a time when we slip one step further and move from external devices to internal…literally implanting chips inside people. Prosthetic limbs already prove that the relationship between organic and manufactured can yield incredibly positive results. So, why not CHIP technology? Maybe it really could happen. And if it did, would it be used for the greater social good or for corporate profit? These are the types of ethical and moral questions asked by Syndicate, the cult classic game released back in 1993. Now gamers will again contemplate these same questions as they play through an action packed, epic sci-fi shooter adventure in EA and Starbreeze's remake of the game.
Set in 2069, Syndicate takes players into a dark, Machiavellian world where corporations are vying for market dominance with no government oversight. The people become the causality of this war as these corporations have the technology and power to influence the public via bio-chips installed in their heads. Syndicate blends fast paced action and futuristic settings with innovative chip breach gameplay to provide a unique and brutal sci-fi first person shooter experience.
In the game, players take on the role of Miles Kilo, Eurocorp's latest prototype agent. Through DART 6 bio-chip technology implanted in their heads, gamers can dilate down time, see through walls, breach the digital world and enemies around them using a variety of upgradable hacking mechanics.
Gamers that reserve Syndicate will receive The Executive Package at no extra charge, which includes unique perks for the game's deep 4-player co-op campaign. Like every good executive, players with The Executive Package will be able to stand out amongst their friends as they flaunt their solid gold versions of all loadout guns, utilize golden dart vision, and showcase the executive gold Syndicate logos during co-op missions.
Key Features:
- Chip Enhanced Gameplay: Slow down time, see through walls, and breach your enemy and everything digital in the world with Dart vision – A neural DART6 chip implant that allows you to interface directly with the Dataverse.
- 4-Player Online Co-op: Assemble your Syndicate for global domination. A 4-player, online co-op experience like no other, with chip enhanced gameplay and 9 missions re-imagined from the original Syndicate.
- Visceral FPS Experience: Utilize an upgradable arsenal of futuristic weapons, armor and gear to annihilate your enemies and harvest their chip technology for personal advancement and sinister corporate greed.
- Sci-Fi Fiction: Immerse yourself in the world of Syndicate 2069, with a world-class sci-fi story experience, written by bestselling author Richard Morgan.
More articles about Syndicate


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Mayor's Office
A national environmental organization has selected Lincoln as one of "America's Top 15 Smartest Cities For Transit Innovation." The honor is based on a study conducted by the Smarter Cities team of the Natural Resource Defense Council (NRDC) in collaboration with the Center for Neighborhood Technology (CNT). The study compared U.S. cities based on public transit availability and use; household automobile ownership and use; and innovative, sustainable and affordable transportation programs.
"This is quite an honor for StarTran to be recognized nationally among our peers," said StarTran Transit Manager Larry Worth. "It also reinforces the importance of marketing our services to the public. Ridership is up 10 percent since September 2010, and we've seen steady increases in ridership every month since then. With bike racks being installed on buses and gas prices continuing to increase, we are expecting that upward trend to continue."
NRDC said Lincoln was highlighted because, "Low-income riders pay a mere $7.50 for unlimited bus rides all month long, while households in that city drive the least — on average 16,800 miles per year — of any metropolitan region in the country with populations less than 250,000." Bremerton, Washington; Champaign-Urbana, Illinois; and Yolo, California were other cities honored in the population group.
"Cities like Lincoln that foster compact, walkable, transit-rich communities can reduce reliance on automobiles and help lower at least one expense for households struggling to get by in the current economy," said Scott Bernstein, CNT President.
More information on StarTran is available at startran.lincoln.ne.gov. More information on the national organizations is available at nrdc.org and cnt.org.


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HOTSEAT- New age faith: Why Tom Perriello takes on Goode
Tom Perriello has been to some of the worst hellholes on earth: Sierra Leone, Liberia, Darfur. "I was part of a team trying to force [Liberian dictator] Charles Taylor to leave office without firing a shot," explains Perriello of his Liberian stint.
Maybe that's why taking on firmly ensconced six-term Congressman Virgil Goode for the 5th District doesn't seem that intimidating to the young Democrat. How could the U.S. House of Representatives be worse than genocide in Darfur?
Perriello calls himself a "justice entrepreneur," and says he "looks at political solutions to military conflicts." He's helped found a nonprofit that stresses faith-based solutions to children's health care, and supports a higher minimum wage, environmental stewardship, and responsible solutions in Iraq.
The Charlottesville native, son of pediatrician Vito Perriello, got his sense of social justice at a young age attending local Catholic churches. "I felt called by my faith wherever I saw great human suffering," he says.
After attending St. Anne's-Belfield and getting a law degree from Yale, Perriello could have taken a more privileged path. Instead, he headed to the civil wars in West Africa– and sees nothing unusual about his call to service.
"My Generation X has the highest level of community service– and the lowest voting record," he explains. "We're starting to see politics as a community service, a way to help people on a grander scale."
And frustration fueled his shift into U.S. politics. "I was sick of going to Afghanistan and coming up with political solutions, and coming back and finding politicians here don't care."
Idealism aside, many have gone up against Goode and failed. What makes a political novice (not counting his election to high-school class president) think he can take on Goode when more experienced candidates like Al Weed and Meredith Richards have tried and failed?
"People understand this is a year for change," says Perriello. "It's a good year for a young candidate."
Indeed, with Hillary and Barack drawing record turnouts, Perriello says he's seen a huge amount of grassroots effort, especially trying to bring new voters in who haven't been interested in politics before. Add to that popular former Governor Mark Warner on the Democratic ticket, and Perriello hopes to capture some of that call for change.
And thanks to support from the national Democratic Party, Perriello outraised Goode in the fourth quarter last year nearly three to one, although Goode still sits on the larger war chest. The challenger claims that two-thirds of his donors have voted for Goode– although Goode points out that a lot of Perriello's money comes from out of state.
Perriello says this race is about more than party. "People want better ideas," he insists. "People want solutions." And that's where he thinks his nonprofit background will make a difference. "People from nonprofits find real solutions with little resources," he says. And he's the only 5th District candidate with a Facebook page.
Perriello represents a different, more progressive type of "faith-based" candidacy than the more typical image evoked of conservative Christians who supported George Bush or Mike Huckabee. "Faith is not just something you do on Sundays," he says. "Initially I started out with the burden of Catholic guilt, but in truth, it's been so rewarding. I feel so alive and engaged."
The challenger tools around the huge 5th District, which stretches from Albemarle to the economically ravaged Southside Virginia, in his white pickup truck. "You feel like you drive through two Americas," he says. "People are eager to work to support their families, and the jobs aren't there."
The people he hopes to represent aren't ideologues, according to Perriello. "They're more interested in right and wrong than right and left," and that's pretty much become his campaign slogan.
After this story ran, Perriello's campaign contacted the Hook to clarify that the support from the Democratic National Party has not included money, and that his mention that two-thirds of his donors had voted for Goode refers to one fundraising event only, not all donors.
Age: 33
Why here? Born and raised
What's worst about living here? Too far from Danville
Favorite hangout [besides your house]? My campaign office...oh wait, that is my house.
Most overrated virtue? Moderation
People would be surprised to know: I think Buffy the Vampire Slayer is one of the most brilliant shows ever written.
What would you change about yourself? Finding a short way to describe what I've been doing overseas.
Proudest accomplishment? Helping to force Liberian dictator Charles Taylor from power.
People find most annoying about you: You mean cocktail parties aren't the best time to talk about genocide and human rights abuses?
Whom do you admire? William Wilberforce, who abolished the slave trade in the British Empire.
Favorite book? The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
Subject that causes you to rant? Our culture of instant gratification... and having to wait for stuff.
Biggest 21st-century thrill? The promise of creating stem cells from skin cells.
Biggest 21st-century creep out? The sport of watching celebrity lives unravel.
What do you drive? A 2005 Ford Ranger
In your car CD player right now: The campaign trail inspiration mix my sister made me for Christmas– everything from Ray Charles and Alicia Keyes to the White Stripes to Toby Keith and Willie Nelson.
Next journey? Now, every day is quite literally a journey to the next town in the 5th district.
Most trouble you've ever gotten in? The time I [censored by campaign communications director]
Regret: [blank]
Favorite comfort food: Hot fudge sundaes
Always in your refrigerator: Budweiser, Diet Dr. Pepper, and butter
Must-see TV: SportsCenter
Describe a perfect day. Playing with my nieces and nephews
Walter Mitty fantasy: Becoming Jason Bourne
Who'd play you in the movie? Matt Damon (see above)
Most embarrassing moment? First photo shoot of the campaign
Best advice you ever got? "Make sure running for office is your vocation, not your temptation."
Favorite bumper sticker? Perriello for Congress, of course
9 comments
Tom's an amazing guy and somebody who can really help bring jobs and success back to the 5th. He's humble and bright and really working hard to be the next representative. He's someone the people of both C-ville and Southside are going to be excited to vote for.
What Tom needs now is support from you! Consider donating online or signing up for his campaign email alerts:
What an inspiring individual! It's amazing how much he has accomplished at such a young age. I hope he is successful - too many of Goode's comments and positions have been an embarrassment to Virginia. It is time for a change.
I have met Virgil Goode. I have met Tom Perriello. Tom has quietly accomplished more for others in need through sheer tenacity, hard work, and sharp thinking in just a few years - and virtually under his own power - than Goode has his entire career - despite having had the vast power of his office. Perriello is and will continue to be a force to be reckoned with. This guy is going to rock the House!
Perriello gives me hope!
Perriello is my hero!!
Unless something BIG happens, Perriello probably can't make it this time around. He is getting name recognition, and I believe he will win as time goes on.
I would suggest he receive some improved advice in making TV ads. He looks good, but the content is in question. I think he paints voters as dumb when they can't pronounce his name. I don't know about the race car either. Perriello should be looking more serious-and not silly-funny in the TV spots. I hope to see revisions asap, as this would be to his advantage.
HTe NASCAR thing was a spin off the MAN of the Year movie, where Robin Williams talk about congressmen wearing sponor patches on thier suits LOL. Was a good movie, I though At least some one else saw the movie. Tom looks and sounds like a good man, I would like to see him talk the political courage test for vote smart, but like other above I doubt he gets elected this time around, I have yet to hear from any of this people or see any of his supporters knocking on doors. I faith is a good thing but should not run the politic of this nation, other wise we have our onw supreme preacher or cleric telling the President what to do lol. And un be known to many God doesn't vote, other wise my botherinlaw would be sheriff LOL.
We now have a congressman in the 5th with a little common sense and compassion, imagine that. Tom is going to be a great change. I want the person that is repressenting me to be the person that I can most identify with.


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Gen Y investors pose some interesting challenges to the financial services industry, and some firms may find they need to adapt to serve these clients, a study released at the end of April found.
In "The Millennial Shift: Financial Services and the Digital Generation," Corporate Insight highlighted how millennials' attitudes and behaviors affect the way the financial services industry appeals to them. It laid out the specific challenges for banks, investment firms, retirement plan providers and insurers and gave tips for these sectors to appeal to young clients.
"Generation Y will be a difficult market for the financial services industry to crack," James McGovern, vice president of consulting services at Corporate Insight, said in a statement. "This is a diverse generation that's struggling with serious financial problems like college debt and underemployment."
McGovern noted that millennials put a high value on transparency and aren't always trustful of financial institutions. They may also expect more online and mobile services than firms currently offer, he said.
Furthermore, millennials aren't under any misconceptions about why financial services firms are in business — to make a profit — and Corporate Insight noted that motive isn't a "barrier to entering a relationship with a financial institution. What is a barrier is any perceived attempt to take advantage of consumers by hiding fees or upselling them on products or services they don't need."
Here are strategies that four different types of financial institutions can use to help reach milliennial clients:
Millennials are far more likely to interact with their bank through a mobile platform than in person, Corporate Insight found. Banks will need to make sure their customers can access their account regardless of the device or platform they are using.
Gen Y bank customers also want simple, free checking and, failing that, they want to know what they're paying for. "Banks are notorious for nuisance fees, charging customers for actions outside of their control (e.g., receiving a wire transfer)," the paper noted, suggesting that banks be very clear about what they charge.
According to the Millennial Disruption Index, the four biggest banks were among the 10 least-loved by millennials, and about a third even said they don't think they'll need a bank in the future.
However, Corporate Insight referred to a survey by UBS that found Gen Y consumers see themselves as savers more than investors, which gives banks an edge over investment firms when it comes to securing younger consumers as customers.
Investment Firms
Speaking of investment firms, Corporate Insight concluded that where millennials are concerned, this segment "faces perhaps the biggest challenge of any financial services industry segment covered in this study."
Various studies have found millennial investors tend to be conservative, calling them everything from a "lost generation" to "scarred" investors. In addition to being risk averse, they doubt Social Security will be much help to them when they get to retirement, yet many aren't saving enough.
Firms should focus on "breaking down the psychological barriers that exist between millennials and the financial markets," according to the report. They may be far away from the level of assets many firms are used to dealing with, but Corporate Insight noted they stand to inherit a few trillion dollars over the next 30 years.
The report found that millennials want guidance, but cost is a major factor for cash-strapped consumers. Hybrid firms that offer easy access to guidance, relatively low-cost managed accounts and strong mobile and online services can serve Gen Y investors well.
Retirement Plan Providers
As noted earlier, few millennials are saving enough for retirement and even fewer actually know how much they should be saving. Although retirement plan providers already have "millions of millennial customers," Corporate Insight noted those relationships are usually with an employer rather than the millennial.
The report found that despite millennials being generally regarded as highly focused on technology — "tech-savvy" and "digital natives" were the two most common terms used to describe millennials in the report — plan providers are worse than banks and online brokerages for website design, navigation, functionality and overall user experience.
Mobile is another area plan providers are failing millennial customers. Corporate Insight noted that most major providers do offer apps for Android and iPhone, but they usually only provide basic account information; few allow users to make transactions that way.
It's a tough road for insurers trying to get new business from debt-ridden millennial investors with little disposable income. Corporate Insight suggested property and life insurers take a cue from auto insurers — which haven't struggled as much to win young consumers as drivers are required by law in many states to have auto coverage — and offer quote tools to quickly show young consumers the cost of a renter's or term-life policy.
The report also suggested that this segment stands to gain the most from targeted marketing strategies that take into account the fact that women are more likely to be primary breadwinners for households in this generation than older ones.
Simple demographics are another challenge, though. Millennials are delaying home buying and starting families.
Related on ThinkAdvisor:


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Slater Tools Inc. manufactures quality tool holders and cutting tools for precision turning machines. Rotary Broaching Tools and Screw Machine Attachments are designed and...
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Derived Categories of Coherent Sheaves on Rational Homogeneous Manifolds
One way to reformulate the celebrated theorem of Beilinson is that $(\mathcal{O}(-n),\dots , \mathcal{O})$ and $(\Omega^n(n), \dots , \Omega^1 (1), \mathcal{O})$ are strong complete exceptional sequences in $D^b(Coh\,\mathbb{P}^n)$, the bounded derived category of coherent sheaves on $\mathbb{P}^n$. In a series of papers (\cite{Ka1}, \cite{Ka2}, \cite{Ka3}) M. M. Kapranov generalized this result to flag manifolds of type $A_n$ and quadrics. In another direction, Y. Kawamata has recently proven existence of complete exceptional sequences on toric varieties (\cite{Kaw}). Starting point of the present work is a conjecture of F. Catanese which says that on every rational homogeneous manifold $X=G/P$, where $G$ is a connected complex semisimple Lie group and $P\subset G$ a parabolic subgroup, there should exist a complete strong exceptional poset (cf. def. 2.1.7 (B)) and a bijection of the elements of the poset with the Schubert varieties in $X$ such that the partial order on the poset is the order induced by the Bruhat-Chevalley order (cf. conjecture 2.2.1 (A)). An answer to this question would also be of interest with regard to a conjecture of B. Dubrovin (\cite{Du}, conj. 4.2.2) which has its source in considerations concerning a hypothetical mirror partner of a projective variety $Y$: There is a complete exceptional sequence in $D^b(Coh\, Y)$ if and only if the quantum cohomology of $Y$ is generically semisimple (the complete form of the conjecture also makes a prediction about the Gram matrix of such a collection). A proof of this conjecture would also support M. Kontsevich's homological mirror conjecture, one of the most important open problems in applications of complex geometry to physics today (cf. \cite{Kon}). The goal of this work will be to provide further evidence for F. Catanese's conjecture, to clarify some aspects of it and to supply new techniques. In section 2 it is shown among other things that the length of every complete exceptional sequence on $X$ must be the number of Schubert varieties in $X$ and that one can find a complete exceptional sequence on the product of two varieties once one knows such sequences on the single factors, both of which follow from known methods developed by Rudakov, Gorodentsev, Bondal et al. Thus one reduces the problem to the case $X=G/P$ with $G$ simple. Furthermore it is shown that the conjecture holds true for the sequences given by Kapranov for Grassmannians and quadrics. One computes the matrix of the bilinear form on the Grothendieck $K$-group $K_{\circ}(X)$ given by the Euler characteristic with respect to the basis formed by the classes of structure sheaves of Schubert varieties in $X$; this matrix is conjugate to the Gram matrix of a complete exceptional sequence. Section 3 contains a proof of theorem 3.2.7 which gives complete exceptional sequences on quadric bundles over base manifolds on which such sequences are known. This enlarges substantially the class of varieties (in particular rational homogeneous manifolds) on which those sequences are known to exist. In the remainder of section 3 we consider varieties of isotropic flags in a symplectic resp. orthogonal vector space. By a theorem due to Orlov (thm. 3.1.5) one reduces the problem of finding complete exceptional sequences on them to the case of isotropic Grassmannians. For these, theorem 3.3.3 gives generators of the derived category which are homogeneous vector bundles; in special cases those can be used to construct complete exceptional collections. In subsection 3.4 it is shown how one can extend the preceding method to the orthogonal case with the help of theorem 3.2.7. In particular we prove theorem 3.4.1 which gives a generating set for the derived category of coherent sheaves on the Grassmannian of isotropic 3-planes in a 7-dimensional orthogonal vector space. Section 4 is dedicated to providing the geometric motivation of Catanese's conjecture and it contains an alternative approach to the construction of complete exceptional sequences on rational homogeneous manifolds which is based on a theorem of M. Brion (thm. 4.1.1) and cellular resolutions of monomial ideals à la Bayer/Sturmfels. We give a new proof of the theorem of Beilinson on $\mathbb{P}^n$ in order to show that this approach might work in general. We also prove theorem 4.2.5 which gives a concrete description of certain functors that have to be investigated in this approach.
2000 Mathematics Subject Classification: 14M15, 14F05; 18E30
Keywords and Phrases: flag varieties, rational homogeneous manifolds, derived category
Full text: dvi.gz 134 k, dvi 333 k, ps.gz 1095 k, pdf 592 k.
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Here's How a Girl with No Arms Gets Dressed
Prepare to stop taking a lot of things for granted.
"Tisha UnArmed," a 25-year-old YouTuber born with no arms (and one leg shorter than the other), has been regularly providing her subscribers with an informative glimpse into her daily routines — from showering, to driving, to eating sushi with chop sticks.
In her latest video diary, Tisha demonstrates how she puts on her clothes with the aid of a hook, a "little jig," and an abundance of unyielding tenacity.


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It is not uncommon to hear of players being sanctioned for missing training. However, in the case of Corinthians' defensive midfielder Ralf, the reprimand can be for precisely the opposite – as team-mate Fabio Santos revealed to FIFA.com recently. "People joke that he's a machine, that he never gets tired. On post-match days, some of the starting XI can barely do the recovery work, but he's there doing full training with the rest of the squad. The fitness trainer sometimes has to tell him to ease off."
It is precisely this impressive stamina that has made the holding midfielder such a crucial part of Corinthians' extremely successful system, one that has culminated in their winning the Brazilian national championship in 2011 and the 2012 Copa Libertadores. It has also earned O Timão a place in the final of the FIFA Club World Cup Japan 2012 this Sunday, where they will go toe to toe with UEFA Champions League winners Chelsea FC.
Not that Ralf would assume any credit or boast about this. A reserved figure and softly spoken, he chatted to FIFA.com as he left the Toyota Stadium's dressing rooms after the semi-final victory over Al-Ahly SC on Wednesday.
The player admitted that he can sometimes, shall we say, train excessively, though he is quick to make clear it is never our of selfishness. "People even joke and, at times, call me crazy for having that kind of disposition. However, it's a trait of mine – having that virtue, that will power to always want more, to go looking for more," he said, before clarifying that he never does it "to cause problems for my team-mates."
Rocky road
There is an explanation for the player's remarkable commitment that goes much further than his exceptional physical preparation. In order to sustain that high intensity on the pitch, where he covers acres of space with his long and powerful strides, Ralf need only remind himself of his difficult beginnings and turbulent journey to footballing success.
The 28-year-old was a relative latecomer to the professional game, beginning his journey with modest Paulista side Taboao da Serra. There would later follow a very brief stint with Sao Paulo, where he had little chance to show his worth, so after outgrowing the academy's youth teams he was let go.
However, it's a trait of mine – having that virtue, that will power to always want more, to go looking for more.
His next port of call was Maranhao, some 2,000 km from home, before returning once more to his native state. In 2007 he would join another lower-division Paulista side, XV de Jau, but top-flight football was still some way off. However, with his foot on the ladder, the midfielder began to work his way up, honing his craft at three different clubs until Corinthians came in for him in 2009.
That difficult journey goes some way to explaining the player's fierce determination and commitment. "I do it because I need to, not having had academy training or opportunities to develop at the start of my career. Nowadays I have access to the best professionals, who help me better myself," said Ralf, who frequently stays on after club training to work on key aspects of his game. Once again he insists that in doing so that "it's in no way intended to make things difficult for anyone else."
Leading by example
Ralf is one of the most respected players in a squad that famously works well together, even if he's not presently wearing the captain's armband after Tite's decision to rotate the responsibility and entrust Alessandro with it in recent months. Although not the most talkative, the player leads by example both on the pitch and in his tireless dedication to training. Those who know his story, like Fabio Santos, are even more appreciative of the player's contribution.
"It's almost a sin that he came so late to football," said the Corinthians full-back. "If he'd had the right infrastructure around him to take advantage of, he would have been a certain starter for the Seleção a long time ago. As I see it, people should still look favourably [at what he can offer Brazil]. In this country we don't have anyone who performs his role as well as him. Nor does he rest on his laurels. At 28, the chances are he'll improve even more," he added.
And that is precisely what Ralf himself is hoping for. "I never think I've done enough. The day I start thinking everything is great is the day I should stop doing what I love most, which is playing football," he said as our chat drew to a close. However, that is unlikely to be a problem Corinthians need to deal with any time soon. As the club's coaching staff like to point out, Ralf just never stops.


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Sophia Loren
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Sophia Loren (born 20 September 1934) is an Italian actress.
- I've never tried to block out the memories of the past, even though some are painful. I don't understand people who hide from their past. Everything you live through helps to make you the person you are now.
- As quoted in Valentines & Vitriol (1977) by Rex Reed
- I was born wise. Street-wise, people-wise, self-wise. This wisdom was my birthright. I was also born old. And illegitimate. But the two big advantages I had at birth were to have been born wise and to have been born in poverty.
- Quoted by A. E. Hotchner in Sophia, Living and Loving: Her Own Story (1979), p. 9
- I was not intrigued with the accouterments of success and fame, the furs, jewels, expensive automobiles and mansions... I can assure you that these things were not on my mind when I sat spellbound in that Pozzuoli movie house. It was what these performers on the screen were doing, not what they received for doing it.
- As quoted in Sophia, Living and Loving: Her Own Story (1979) by A. E. Hotchner, p. 63.
- I was blessed with a sense of my own destiny. I have never sold myself short. I have never judged myself by other people's standards. I have always expected a great deal of myself, and if I fail, I fail myself. So failure or reversal does not bring out resentment in me because I cannot blame others for any misfortune that befalls me.
- As quoted in Sophia, Living and Loving: Her Own Story (1979) by A. E. Hotchner, p. 76.
- My philosophy is that it's better to explore life and make mistakes than to play it safe and not to explore at all.
- As quoted in Sophia, Living and Loving: Her Own Story (1979) by A. E. Hotchner, p. 239.
- A woman's dress should be like a barbed-wire fence: serving its purpose without obstructing the view.
- Quoted on Good Morning, America ABC TV (10 August 1979).
- Beauty is how you feel inside, and it reflects in your eyes. It is not something physical.
- As quoted in Morrow's International Dictionary of Contemporary Quotations (1982) by Jonathon Green, p. 340.
- Sex appeal is fifty percent what you've got and fifty percent what people think you've got.
- As quoted in Halliwell's Filmgoer's Companion (1984) Leslie Halliwell
- Nothing makes a woman more beautiful than the belief that she is beautiful.
- As quoted in The Subtlety of Emotions (2001) by Aaron Ben-Ze'ev, p. 204.
- There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of the people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will have truly defeated age.
- As quoted in Hope Notes : 52 Meditations to Nudge Your World (2004) by Wayne Willis, p. 11.
- Being beautiful can never hurt, but you have to have more. You have to sparkle, you have to be fun, you have to make your brain work if you have one. Being a Hollywood beauty was a mixed blessing. Men are men, with all that testosterone, and when a pretty girl comes in front of them what can you expect? The fact that I became one is probably the loveliest, most glamorous and fortunate misunderstanding.
- As quoted in Bombshell (2004) by Lynda Curnyn, p. 196.
- After all these years, I am still involved in the process of self-discovery. It's better to explore life and make mistakes than to play it safe. Mistakes are part of the dues one pays for a full life.
- Quoted in Words of Wisdom and Quotables Quotes (2007) by Dr. A.N.P. Ummerkutty.


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A knee injury has forced Steve Cantwell (7-3 MMA, 1-2 UFC) out of Saturday's UFC 120 event, and his bout with Stanislav Nedkov (10-0 MMA, 0-0 UFC) has been scratched from the preliminary card.
MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) today confirmed with the change with officials while in London, which hosts Saturday's Spike TV-televised event.
"Fighters Only" first reported the injury earlier today.
According to the report, Cantwell "ripped a knee ligament in a training session on Thursday night." He'll receive his base pay ("show" money) for the canceled fight, as will Nedkov.
The former WEC champion was scheduled to fight for the first time in 13 months and looked to rebound from back-to-back decision losses to Luiz Cane and Brian Stann.
In May the Nevada State Athletic Commission cleared the 23-year-old fighter after an issue with his medical paperwork prevented him from being licensed to fight. As a result, he was not cleared for a bout with Vladimir Matyushenko at UFC 108 and sat on the bench as his management worked to clear the hurdle. Although speculation ran rampant about the supposed medical issue, Cantwell and the NSAC never publicly confirmed the details.
Nedkov, a Shooto and World Victory Road/Sengoku vet who recently defeated Kevin Randleman and Travis Wiuff, looked to make his UFC debut with a perfect 10-0 record. The Bulgarian fighter launched his career in his native country in 2006 and has posted nine stoppage victories (five via knockout).
For the latest on UFC 120, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of MMAjunkie.com.


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One of the defining characteristics of conspiracy theorists is how they will switch rapidly between seemingly competing implausible theories to explain unconnected events in any way that confirms their biases. So it is with the anti-GMO lobby, which seems to be behind the latest attempt to exonerate Aedes aegypti mosquitoes for any role in causing Zika or the related outbreak of microcephaly in Brazil and neighbour countries.
A fortnight ago it was GM mosquitoes released by Oxitec which were supposedly behind Zika. This utterly implausible theory appealed to the anti-GMO crowd because it enabled them to scaremonger about genetic engineering while at the same time demonising a potential solution to mosquito control that involved a novel use of genetics in insects and was therefore bad. Along with many others in the pro-science community, I debunked this theory in the Guardian, and it quickly died away.
A couple of weeks later, the old theory is forgotten, and a new one is doing the rounds – and being shamefully promoted, again, by the once-great Ecologist. Again the Zika virus, and, contrary to prevailing medical expert opinion, the mosquitoes are innocent of causing microcephaly. This time the culprit is pyriproxyfen – a larvicide that is added to municipal water supplies in Latin America in order to prevent mosquitoes breeding.
It is interesting that what the two theories have in common is an attempt to blame one of the solutions to Zika and microcephaly for causing it in the first place. This theory has appealed to the anti-GMO crowd because at last – at last! – they have been able to get the name 'Monsanto' into the picture: a necessary bit of clickbait necessary to give the new theory viral traction on social media.
The origination of the story is an Argentine group called 'Physicians in the Crop-Sprayed Villages' – an anti-GMO outfit that campaigns against the use of glyphosate in Argentinian large-scale soya farming. In the past it has made numerous scientifically unsupported claims about glyposate being responsible for cancer and birth defects. In its Zika press release, the group claimed that the larvicide "pyroproxyfen" (spelt wrong, incidentally) "is manufactured by Sumimoto Chemical, a Japanese subsidiary of Monsanto".
Scary! Everyone knows Monsanto is evil – so blaming them and some Japanese 'chemical' company is a great way to confirm biases for anti-GMO types and chemophobes in general. Except that it's completely wrong. For a start the company is called Sumitomo, not Sumimoto. More importantly, as a Monsanto spokesperson told me: "Sumitomo is not owned by Monsanto. However, we do have a long-standing business relationship – they supply us with a couple of herbicides." Guilty! Hang them!
So in reality Monsanto has nothing to do with any of this, but the antis get their headline: "Argentine physicians claim Monsanto larvicide is true cause of microcephaly". And Facebook does the rest.
The science as usual, is somewhat different. As Dr Ian Musgrave at the University of Adelaide explains:
"This claim is not plausible. The pesticide in question is pyriproxyfen, a replacement for the organophosphate pesticides that the mosquitoes are becoming resistant to. Pyriproxyfen acts by interfering with the hormonal control growth cycle of insects from hatching, to larvae, to pupa. This hormone control system does not exist in organisms with backbones, such as humans, and pyriproxyfen has very low toxicity in mammals as a result."
In order to achieve threshold toxicity levels that have been seen in animal studies, a person would have to drink 1,000 litres of water every day. The concentration of pyriproxyfen in Brazilian treated water is 300 times lower than the safe limit set by the World Health Organisation. (h/t Science Media Centre for this and other expert quotes.) And so on.
The toxicity of pyriproxyfen is well understood, and the WHO does not consider it carcinogenic, genotoxic or teratogenic at anything less than extreme doses. There isn't even much correlation between treated areas and microcephaly cases – not least because, as Sumitomo has pointed out in a media response, its larvicide has been used in dozens of countries around the world for two decades already.
The problem with conspiracy theories isn't just that they waste everyone's time and confuse people, but that they are actively harmful. Already, according to the WSJ, one Brazilian state, Rio Grande do Sul, has banned the use of pyriproxifen in drinking water "as a preventive measure". An increase in both Zika and Dengue fever cases can reasonably be expected as a result: many people will suffer and some will die because this new conspiracy theory is polluting the public discourse. But the science deniers get their ideological biases confirmed, which to them is much more important.
As I said in the Guardian, we have seen this before, and we know where it leads.
55 Comments
Thanks, Mark. This is another very timely comment.
As you say, "The problem with conspiracy theories isn't just that they waste everyone's time and confuse people, but that they are actively harmful."
They also divert people's efforts from the real problem and send them running off down blind alleys. Thus we lose potential activists who might otherwise help to tackle genuine problems. Anti-GM activism is the anti-capitalism of fools.↓
Thanks for clearing this up. it had to be said and it will have to be said over and over: scaremongering is evil.↓
I wouldn't call it implausible. The idea that a pesticide could cause developmental problems is well established. And looking at the literature on pyriproxyfen I find that it is both highly likely to bioaccumulate AND does cause skeletal developmental problems at higher concentrations. It also fits the correlation stats just as well or better than the Zika virus.
Until causation is robustly established, pyriproxyfen would need to be on the list to test.
As far as your naive attempts to justify Monsanto's highly unethical track record regarding safety studies. Get over it. You add for yourself no credibility defending Monsanto.↓
@Scott: In the absence of scientific evidence, it's easy to speculate and to spread false rumors. It is even more plausible that it's the that virus causes the malformation.
The facts seem now to be established and your speculation proven wrong:
How does that correlation prove that pesticides can't be the cause? Did they test the sample for pyriproxyfen? Did they test the Mothers for bioaccumulation of pyriproxyfen? Did they test any microcephaly cases that didn't have the Zika virus?
Your source says 462 of 4000 have been confirmed, how many of those confirmed cases of microcephaly had the Zika virus? How many had pyriproxyfen?
Why hasn't Columbia, who don't use pyriproxyfen but have had cases of Zika not had reported cases of microcephaly spike?
While I agree that the risk may be somewhat small that pyriproxyfen in the drinking water is causing this, I don't see how it is ruled out by any means.
Besides, there are safer alternatives like the GM mosquitoes and bacillus thuringiensis israelensis. Since there are safer methods that pouring pesticide directly into peoples drinking water, why risk it?
Scott, questions after questions, but we, you and I, are in no position to answer them. We can only speculate.
Microcephalus is a rare condition. "It is associated with Down's syndrome, chromosomal syndromes, and neurometabolic syndromes. Babies may also be born with microcephaly if, during pregnancy, their mother abused drugs or alcohol, became infected with a cytomegalovirus, rubella (German measles), or varicella (chicken pox) virus, was exposed to certain toxic chemicals, or had untreated phenylketonuria (PKU)."
So if you like we can add pyriproxyfen and Zika to the probable causes and continue to speculate until we know for sure.
But: Monsanto is NOT one of the probable causes, there is no evidence of any conspiracy.
The Zika virus seems to be a potential threat (unless Monsanto is conspiring and playing up the risks) for larger populations. Should we take the risk and do nothing? Or try GM (oh the horror) mosquitoes and bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (what do we know about its danger to unborn life)?
Should we wait until the first case of Zika is reported from an airport near you before taking action?
Mark is spot on: conspiracy theories will not advance us in any way. It is important to be skeptical. Scientists can be wrong or biased for many reasons and is good to highlight these biases, but in the end science has to be judged on rational grounds and on evidence.
"How does that correlation prove that pesticides can't be the cause? Did they test the sample for pyriproxyfen? Did they test the Mothers for bioaccumulation of pyriproxyfen? Did they test any microcephaly cases that didn't have the Zika virus?"
It could have been pink unicorns dancing in the bloody garden, for all we know, and we wouldn't be able to prove that they *weren't* the cause. But many people haven't heard of Occam's Razor.
Viruses have a track record of causing fetal abnormalities. That's why we vaccinate against rubella. And there's solid evidence that Zika is the culprint in all these cases, see: https://www.newscientist.com/article/2077091-whole-zika-genome-recovered-from-brain-of-baby-with-microcephaly/
Quite why anyone would wilfully ignore the smoking gun and implicate some other entirely unrelated factor as the guilty party is beyond me. It just makes people look ideologically driven to the point of being blind.
Because at this time no causal link has been found, only correlation. And the correlation to pyriproxyfen is just as strong or stronger than the correlation to the Zika virus. Both have the potential to be the culprit.
You don't see the irony? Rather than the mosquito spreading the virus, the pesticide used to prevent the mosquito spreading the virus? Increased pest populations would correlate to increased microcephaly without actually being a cause or a vector, because increased pest numbers would be followed by increased pesticide use.
Interesting hypotheses, but still no actual evidence. Nothing more than a just so story until you actually come up with a way to test both hypotheses. They follow the same correlations. Either could be the cause.
What we know isn't the cause is GM mosquitoes. We also know bacillus thuringiensis israelensis is incredibly safe with statistically near zero chances of side effects. Both these measures also have a very high degree of effectiveness either separately or combined.
Why even play with fire when fire is not needed?
"And the correlation to pyriproxyfen is just as strong or stronger than the correlation to the Zika virus. Both have the potential to be the culprit."
Bollocks. microcephaly is growing in communities that don't use pyriproxyfen as well as those that do. the larvicide doesn't work through the nervous system, yet that's what's being damaged in Zika fetuses.
Can't be bothered to respond to the rest of your posting, because it's probably pompous claptrap.
Come on Clyde. You are smarter than that. I know you are. There are cases of microcephaly outside the areas where pyriproxyfen is being put in the drinking water. But there is also cases of microcephaly outside the areas where the Zika virus has spread. That's because Microcephaly has more than one cause. But the correlation to the SPIKE in frequency fits both.
Have you read the EPA documentation on pyriproxyfen? It is not nearly as clear cut a case as you pretend. http://www.epa.gov/ingredients-used-pesticide-products/weight-evidence-edsp-pyriproxyfen
Yes the weight of evidence shows pyriproxyfen is safer than many other pesticides. But there are two areas of concern. The potential for bioconcentration is very high and also some skeletal developmental problems associated with higher concentrations of Pyriproxyfen, even as severe as Cyclopia. It's not proof, but it does seem plausible congenital abnormalities could result from putting pyriproxyfen directly in drinking water. Plausible enough at least for further study.
I didn't find any robust link between microcephaly and Pyriproxyfen though. So still no reason to jump to conclusions. But I sure wouldn't want pyriproxyfen, or any pesticide for that matter, in the drinking water of any of my pregnant loved ones.
Until robust causation can be determined, rather than these correlations, one would have to consider the GM mosquito and bacillus thuringiensis israelensis far far better options.
Rubbish. the most important act is to get of the mosquitoes. Period. And if that microcephalic fetus which had Zika rampaging through the brain tissue isn't a robust example of causation then what is? I know, let's DELIBERATELY infect some pregnant women with Zika and see what happens, shall we?
You're pouring petrol on the flames of a conflagration that should never have been lit in the first place. Show some sense of responsibility and put your chemophobia aside for once.
Yes clyde, controlling mosquitoes is important. But there are other safer and even more effective ways to do that. What part are you missing? When attempting to reduce a known danger, like disease carrying mosquitoes, it is pretty foolish to use a cure that also can cause harm too, unless there are no other options. Well in this case there are other extremely effective options with much lower risk. As close to zero risk as statistically possible.
What part are *you* missing? Pyriproxyfen has been shown to have NO significant effects upon the human nervous system, while the evidence against Zika is mounting daily. As the NYT, no less, has pointed out:
"In a statement on Monday, the [Brazilian] government noted that microcephaly, which causes brain damage, was also growing in communities that did not use the larvicide, pyriproxyfen, and declared bluntly, "The association between the use of pyriproxyfen and microcephaly has no scientific basis."
Graham B. White, a medical entomologist who is a consultant to the United States Defense Department on disease-carrying insects, called the Argentine doctors' assertion "ridiculous" and "not credible.""
*No scientific basis*. Do you know what that implies? Nobody has shown the larvicide to have *any* causal basis in the microcephalic outbreak, let alone come with with a convincing hypothesis. As I have stated beforehand, fixating on imaginary risks while ignoring profound and measurable benefits from technologies seems to be a leitmotif among Green 'thinking'. And the people who spread such ideas are dangerous fools and gambling with the lives and futures of people who they will never meet. Don't be one of them.
"George Dimech, the director of Disease Control and Diseases of the Health Department of Pernambuco in Brazil, gave an interview to the BBC where he pointed out that the city of Recife has the current highest reported amount of cases of microcephaly, yet pyriproxyfen is not used in the region, but another insecticide altogether. He added that "this lack of spatial correlation weakens the idea that the larvicide is the cause of the problem." In addition, the BBC interviewed researchers in Pernambuco, where no evidence has been found of the cases being linked to any environmental cause like an insecticide. Neurologist Vanessa van der Linden stated in an interview, "Clinically, the changes we see in the scans of babies suggest that the injuries were caused by congenital infection and not by larvicide, drug or vaccine."
"Why hasn't Columbia, who don't use pyriproxyfen but have had cases of Zika not had reported cases of microcephaly spike?"
I see where you come from: Google reveals hundreds of press releases all with the same content: Associated Press. A conspiracy of the main stream media? Has anybody checked the source? Has anybody compared the living and medical conditions between Brazil and Columbia, the number and causes of abortions?
Whatever: The alleged Sumimoto/Sumitomo connection with Monsanto is not the cause.↓
The pesticide certainly could be. It has not been ruled out and it is plausible. Read up on it seriously. High degree of bioaccumulation potential, and skeletal developmental problems at higher concentrations. That's a dangerous combination in something you pour directly into drinking water.
Almost guaranteed at some point there will be developmental problems, if not now, later as it bioaccumulates.
No it couldn't. (Hitchens's razor being swiped there).
Monsanto has been ruled out as far as can I see. As Scott mentions, the bacillus thuringiensis could indeed be an alternative, but the choice wasn't up to Monsanto. On the other hand, Monsanto was bashed for using this same bacillus in India.
As for the insecticide, I gather there is strong evidence against it's role:
And what's missing in that CDC report?
There were tests to rule out other contagions that could cause fetal abnormalities: rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes, toxoplasmosis, and HIV. But where's the test to rule out pyriproxyfen, which also can cause congenital abnormalities?
From Wikipedia again:
"A professor from the University of Adelaide in Australia, stated that "The effect of pyriproxyfen on reproduction and fetal abnormalities is well studied in animals. In a variety of animal species even enormous quantities of pyriproxyfen do not cause the defects seen during the recent Zika outbreak."[25] A colleague also from the University of Adelaide stated that "While the evidence that Zika virus is responsible for the rise in microcephaly in Brazil is not conclusive, the role of pyriproxyfen is simply not plausible."[25] Another professor in Australia concluded that "insect development is quite different to human development and involves different hormones, developmental pathways and sets of genes, so it cannot be assumed that chemicals affecting insect development also influence mammalian development."[25]"
They can say it, but it isn't true. I gave you the proof of that with the CDC weight of evidence report. And it is not just one, but multiple studies have found BOTH a high potential for bioconcentration and at high concentrations developmental abnormalities in mammals.
Correction weight of evidence report from the EPA not CDC. Sorry.
A 'higher concentration' of pyriproxyfen is equivalent to drinking thousands of litres of water, day after day after day. Moreover, the *consensus* seems to suggest that the chemical is rapidly broken down both in the body and in the environment.
Zika causes microcephaly. Not pyriproxifen. And if you can't or won't accept that, you can shove it.
Microcephaly in Brazil has increased and so is a problem to those who have it and to a country once relatively spared this illness.
Whatever the cause the addition of effectively an agent to kill insects and parasites into the water supply is foolish. Even the makers, suppliers and scientists agree that this is barmy.
Further research data does show the pesticide does affect mammals despite claims to the contrary. Lower birth weights and even mortality has even made research protocols fail to have the power they were designed to have because of such adverse health effects to mammals tested.
Finally in many so called scientific countries the levels of microcephaly Brazil complain off would be accepted as normal with something like fifty or more "explanations" given for the unavoidable genetic condition they label the new born with.
We have a chance to be honest and cure this scourge or we can just accept it and explain it away again as we are want to do and let science and industry take their almighty dollars once more.↓
What 'further research data'? I haven't seen any such evidence, and believe me, I've been looking.
Then you go on to say 'The Brazilian scientists and doctors have suggested this chemical as a possible candidate for harming the foetus or egg in a mothers womb.'
No they haven't. As Mark POINTS OUT IN HIS ORIGINAL POSTING, 'The origination of the story is an Argentine group called 'Physicians in the Crop-Sprayed Villages' – an anti-GMO outfit that campaigns against the use of glyphosate in Argentinian large-scale soya farming.'
No credible scientific source has suggested that pyriproxyfen causes microcephaly. "The effect of pyriproxyfen on reproduction and fetal abnormalities is well studied in animals. In a variety of animal species even enormous quantities of pyriproxyfen do not cause the defects seen during the recent Zika outbreak."
And then you have the temerity to go on about "indicating the level of ignorance in modern day scientists."
Every time you open your mouth on this or any other subject you come out with utter drivel. You are possibly one of the most scientifically ignorant people I have ever met. People who live in glass houses shouldn't thrown stones.
"Whatever the cause the addition of effectively an agent to kill insects and parasites into the water supply …"
The agent in question isn't killing any insects nor parasites; read it up!
But there is no doubt that Zika as a serious health threat, especially to unborn children.
I would imagine that Fryer also opposes the chlorination of domestic water supplies for the very same reason.
Not sure conspiracy is the correct term, as those that talk of conspiracy are actually conspiring themselves.
Research data DOES show harm is possible to mammals as well as insects from PYRIPROXYFEN.
The Brazilian government has stopped adding this chemical pesticide to the drinking water.
The Brazilian scientists and doctors have suggested this chemical as a possible candidate for harming the foetus or egg in a mothers womb.
Conspiracy is therefore those that want to veto any further investigations into exactly how this chemical may harm the egg of pregnant mothers in a similar way it destroys the eggs of pests.
Hormones actually do work at incredibly tiny levels and so while effects on the parents are small or non existent this isntthe main concern or even any concern. The concern is for the egg and hormonal action at extremely low levels of concentration but high stakes for the eggs exposed.
Just a few years ago research data spoke of the hormone affected in eggs as just a food for the new born animal indicating the level of ignorance in modern day scientists such that we now deny further investigations or leads into the cause of microcephaly at huge cost to both present and future humans to be born.
Thlidomide was the first chemical to alert us to the massive harm from very simple and very safe chemicals. Today, Brazil does still use this very safe chemical alongside many other countries. Nobody wants to prevent medical advances or the destruction of mosquitoes causing harm but cruelty to babies is surely a punishable offense?
I presume the author here would be glad to know what is the cause of current health problems and solving the mysteries must never involve excluding candidates just because it could prove costly for the industry that supports denial or investigations into its products with clarity, honesty and integrity.↓
Wait for it… wait for it… aaaaaannd… Thalidomide.↓
The INCHEM toxicological evaluation of PYRIPROXYFEN shows developmental problems:
Rats 12 out of 42 dead from day 11 to 16 and rat studies normally last for several hundred days.
body weights significantly reduced and hence presumably this would include the head.
Rabbits: abortions spoken of without giving numbers and premature births and talk of skeletal abnormalities.
Hardly no effect on human hormones
further research again shows a 40 per cent similarity of insect and human hormones.
Best to talk from science rather than hype, lies or perhaps unsafe optimism that man made chemicals can't and won't hurt humans.↓
The only difference between a medicine and a poison is the DOSE. Breathing pure oxygen under pressure will KILL you. Too much of any chemical will. That's 'talking from science'.
Hi Clyde we seem to be In Agreement here. Essential chemicals can prove lethal if not used correctly. Surely therefore we need to be even more careful when using dangerous chemicals at levels where a few animals are seemingly unaffected.
Phenoxy biocides do cause exactly the illness seen in Brazil and need higher tier investigations now?
We have the vast data base of the use of phenoxy biocides in Vietnam and odd shaped babies with heads not quite rightanyone a direct result.
I notice the same few, mostly old scientists again brought out to deny phenoxy harm to unborn babies and readvocating a return to putting such biocides in the water supply.
Identifying the highest amount of a biocide which can be tolerated and ignoring effects at higher levels is not just risk analysis but risky where the expert takes zéro risk and the unborn babies take all the risks.
Strange these people talk of a maximum of 0.15 micrograms maximum exposure for workers making these biocides but then talk that we can safely drink thousands of liters of water with the stuff in the water supply?
The final irony is these people admit freely there is NO SCIENCE in their expert analysis but it is ARBITRARY and POLICY BASED.
Quite so!↓
"Phenoxy biocides do cause exactly the illness seen in Brazil and need higher tier investigations now?"
No – they don't.
"The final irony is these people admit freely there is NO SCIENCE in their expert analysis but it is ARBITRARY and POLICY BASED."
No it isn't. There is plenty of science. You just have to go and find it.
The day I find myself in agreement with you is the day the Second Law of Thermodynamics is proven to apply in Hell.
Nobody is sure as yet what causes microcephaly so the arguments you put forward that we mustn't look further into PYRIPROXYFEN and its action on humans is hardly scientific .
It is not rocket science to monitor the exposure of pregnant mothers to this compound and observe the results.
When anyone isn't prepared to face the unthinkable is the time we get to accept health problems in children as unavoidable and just a fault in their genes or some other "explanation".
A simple head count of people with microcephaly in Brazil and USA shows the problem is actually very much worse in USA where to my knowledge ZIKA is not a health issue yet.↓
Fuck off! I never suggested anything of the sort. What I *have* pointed out is that there is STRONG evidence that Zika causes it, and only a moron would deny that and suggest we concentrate our efforts elsewhere.
The only reason you seemed to be so fixated on this larvicide is because you lack the comprehension that viruses can cause deformities. It's like the man who drops his car keys in the dark but insists on looking under a streetlamp because there's more light there.
Stupid. And predictable.
Developmental Biology is a rather new and embryonic science and we need to work together to a better understanding and I fail to see how ignoring obvious adverse exposures develops this new science?
For the chemical spill in Seveso it was discovered that essentially a combination effect made the health damage much worse than that predicted by the science of the time.
Could we have the same here where toxins and endotoxins synergise to cause harm where none is expected from simple science of the past?
No ZIKA caused microcephaly in other countries.
No microcephaly expected at the levels found for PYRIPROXYFEN exposure.
But together has anyone observed the combined effects and with your emotional denial of science and others nobody is very likely too.
Hence perhaps why the microcephaly epidemic in USA is some ten times that of SIDS at its height .
I do agree that viruses cause developmental health issues but let's have the full science and not partial science where the chemical companies have a get out of jail free card?↓
"Developmental Biology is a rather new and embryonic science"
"No ZIKA caused microcephaly in other countries"
Again, really?
"No microcephaly expected at the levels found for PYRIPROXYFEN exposure.
But together has anyone observed the combined effects and with your emotional denial of science and others nobody is very likely too."
Dear God, talk about the pot calling the kettle black. Tell me, have you ever READ a scientific paper, end to end? Have to ever had to do a critical analysis of one? It's always the most blinkered in this society, the Delingpoles, Pollands and Food Babes, who seem to think they have the right to lecture the rest of us on 'science' when in fact they wouldn't recognise a scientific idea if it hit them smack in the mouth.
I doubt very much whether you form your opinions from any sources other than activist websites. I read the research papers. Like I read that paper that Scott kept on citing and found that it had NOTHING in it about pyriproxyfen causing deformities or interfering with any human endocrine pathways. I get my information from the horse's mouth. Not its arse.↓
You spend your time on abusing other people.
You proclaim your own supreme understanding is the only acceptable interpretation of a scientific paper.
You are the one fixated in your argument.
Research does show growth and development health issues for mammals which is almost certain giving the fact that the chemical under suspicion does exactly that to insects.
You are using anecdotal claims by people that people are getting microcephaly without exposure to hormone mimics and ignore scientific fact that most are not eased to ZIKA virus.
In short you take a view of the cause of microcephaly that no one else yet is prepared to accept.
Yoi ignore scientific fact that USA has much higher levels of microcephaly.
In all I think you should look to your scientific impartiality and get a little less emotional in your state,wNts and attitudes that do you absolutely no credit as a fellow human being.
Remember these people have terrible illness and short life expectancy and there is a need to end this illness not known at this level 20 years ago.↓
"You spend your time on abusing other people."
No, I spend my time ridiculing nonsensical ideas.
"You proclaim your own supreme understanding is the only acceptable interpretation of a scientific paper."
No, I read the papers beyond the abstract, unlike you, evidently, and then I go away and make up my mind about them
"You are the one fixated in your argument."
When the evidence changes, my mind changes. The evidence about Zika shows that the virus is the culprit, period.
"Research does show growth and development health issues for mammals which is almost certain giving the fact that the chemical under suspicion does exactly that to insects."
Rubbish. As has been pointed out several times already, the insect and mammalian growth pathways use entirely different signalling mechanisms to control growth. Pyriproxyfen interferes with the insect growth pathway, not the mammalian.
"You are using anecdotal claims by people that people are getting microcephaly without exposure to hormone mimics and ignore scientific fact that most are not eased to ZIKA virus.
In short you take a view of the cause of microcephaly that no one else yet is prepared to accept."
Absolute, tendentious, lying *garbage*. None of these claims are 'anecdotal'. As Mark points out:
"The toxicity of pyriproxyfen is well understood, and the WHO does not consider it carcinogenic, genotoxic or teratogenic at anything less than extreme doses. There isn't even much correlation between treated areas and microcephaly cases – not least because, as Sumitomo has pointed out in a media response, its larvicide has been used in dozens of countries around the world for two decades already."
You ignore scientific fact that USA has much higher levels of microcephaly.
Huh? When did this particular piece of nonsense come from? This is what the CDC has to say about microcephaly in the US:
"Microcephaly is not a common condition. State birth defects tracking systems have estimated that microcephaly ranges from 2 babies per 10,000 live births to about 12 babies per 10,000 live births in the Unites States."
And then we have from the BBC:
"According to the BBC, in 2014, only 150 Brazilian babies were born with the cranial birth defect known as microcephaly; since October alone, however, authorities have reported 3,893 new suspected cases. Some 90% of these cases have been recorded in Brazil's northeastern states, where the country's Zika outbreak — the largest on record — is most pervasive, the BBC says."
"In all I think you should look to your scientific impartiality and get a little less emotional in your state,wNts and attitudes that do you absolutely no credit as a fellow human being."
No, I'm quite happy to be a complete asshole, if that stops halfwits like you spreading nonsense about issues they understand little, if at all. I'll take my cue from the late great Christopher Hitchens:
"Beware the irrational, however seductive. … Don't be afraid to be thought arrogant or selfish. Picture all experts as if they were mammals. Never be a spectator of unfairness or stupidity. Seek out argument and disputation for their own sake; the grave will supply plenty of time for silence. Suspect your own motives, and all excuses. Do not live for others any more than you would expect others to live for you."
The CDC are sending a team out to Brazil to look at the microcephaly cases and do a case control study.
So science is moving forward with nothing proven or disproven as to cause.
Taking the past experience of Vietnam and chemical catastrophes we must surely consider looking for synergy effects of virus and toxins combining to form harm.
But the rapid growth and spread of ZIKA from Brazil in May last year to dozens of countries in South America does make any reputable scientist demand an explanation as to how it got to Brazil and how it spread so rapidly.
Oxitech claim a range of action for its mosquitoes of 4 km . This seems not to agree with the spread seen though.
Did the GMO mosquitoes come and were developed from South American sources or from areas where virus contamination may have caused an unwanted passenger on those mosquitoes used to stem dengue fever?↓
Listen, mate:
The larvicide been used for decades without any prior cases of microcephaly and there is no correlation between current cases and is present use.
Can you not comprehend this simple argument? Do you not understand how *stupid* you are making yourself look?
You say it has been used for years, but used in ponds lakes and things. Yes these lakes and such sometimes ultimately end up being drinking water, but what is going on in Brazil is different. They are literally pouring the insecticide directly in water tanks. It's a recipe for disaster.
Now I don't know if it really is the cause of the health issue outbreaks, but it sure isn't wise to pour an insecticide directly into a water tank, especially when it has been proven to be capable of causing developmental problems in mammals. It's just not a good idea when we have bacillus thuringiensis israelensis available by the ton cheap and just as effective without the chance for side effects.
There is NO direct spatial correlation between larvicide use and microcephaly cases. In fact, if anything there is an inverse correlation (hardly surprisingly). And there's no plausible mechanism by which the larvicide can cause microcephaly in humans. And teratogenicity tests haven't shown anything that might implicate it.
Save your nonsense for somebody more credulous.
PYRIPROXYFEN has been in use for some time but as time goes by it has taken over from other insect regulators largely of the me too variety as they have been shown rk be unsafe. Hence the large scale use of PYRIPROXYFEN is probably just two of your many decades rather spoiling the one two many analogy snd therefore this product while not absolutely new is hardly a long accepted product.
The use of the product in drinking water much more recent and possibly less than a year?
I have not claimed , nor anyone the definitve proof of harm but a use of a pesticide chosen to affect growth and development and similar human problems is too much to ignore in the hunt for causation.
A chemical company would never admit blame but companies denying their liability are common and ongoing.↓
Despite virtually every other credible scientific authority pointing out that it is highly unlikely to be the cause.
And then you go back to trying to implicate GMO mosquitoes.
You typify totally the kind of thinking that Mark has come to despise and which I've always shunned. You understand very little but think you have a right to point the finger at any bogey that looks like it might fit the bill. Let's all Round up the Usual Suspects again, shall we?
You're pathetic. But the problem is too many other people think like you. You may all inhabit the same echo chamber, but the danger is when some sound gets out.
GMO mosquitoes has been ruled out as a cause, the insecticide hasn't. Oh and BTW, there is a very very very good reason insecticides are one of the "usual suspects", and that is a HORRIBLE track record of actually being the culprit!
Ok, propose a mechanism by which the insecticide might cause microcephaly. Go on. We're all agog, here.
In May 2015 the ZIKA virus arrived in Brazil.
Now in most countries west and north for example Bolivia where the WHO announced the first confirmed case of ZIKA on the 16th January 2016.
People surely have the right to ask questions to establish what is the cause and how to stop the spread.
It may turn out to be an unavoidable health issue but if man has taken some hand in its spread either deliberately or by some folly then we have the right to find out and take action.
I get suspicious when people throw up arguments and slate people instead of taking their views and answering them with science . The CDC are looking seriously at this health crisis and it is rare that some good will not come from this and for myself the microcephaly cases in western countries would appear also to have been at near epidemic levels for twenty years and beginning to be accepted as inevitable.
The sudden rise in South America shows there is a cause not genetic as is assumed for most cases in say USA today.
Surely we must look at all possibilities and not reject some as it might hurt the profits of the multinationals?↓
"I get suspicious when people throw up arguments and slate people instead of taking their views and answering them with science."
I get derisive when people ignore the science that's plainly under their nose and start looking for other unrelated targets for blame.
This issue has fuck all to do with 'multinationals'. Diseases can and do spread globally, especially now that air travel is so cheap. Viruses also mutate and cause more severe disease in less adapted populations.
And if you don't want people like slating you, either talk some sense for a change or keep your mouth shut.
The Brazilian government have already announced the stopping of growth and development inhibitors in the water supplies. sensible precautions and in Australia for example water butts where it is physically impossible for mosquitoes to enter cures a problem without added risks.
Now the Brazilian government have announced the abandonment of the novel GMO mosquitoes and are using more standard methods where mosquitoes are sourced locally avoiding any possible risks of unwanted viral loads.
All very sensible fail SEF methods of combatting dengue fever .
While it is possible that ZIKA just arrived it has had more than fifty years to get to Brazil and rather bad for public relations to choose the same time as the introduction of GMO mosquitoes.↓
"…Now the Brazilian government have announced the abandonment of the novel GMO mosquitoes and are using more standard methods where mosquitoes are sourced locally avoiding any possible risks of unwanted viral loads…"
The Brazilian Government can't find it's arse with both hands, let alone tell one kind of mosquito from the other. As for 'unwanted viral loads', how the hell can a GMO mosquito bred in a laboratory for over 100 generations be carryingg Zika, a human RNA virus, down through the generations?
I've come to the conclusion that you are a pretty dim individual who has a very slippery grasp on the concepts behind this technology. Yet you still insist on giving us your opinion on it.
not easy to get a sensible open debate here but just bigoted if the multinationals do it it must be 100 per cent OK .
Sad to say the only 100 per cent I have seen is in the production of sugar and certainly not GMO technology where the company themselves couldn't guarantee single sex mosquitoes so where were their controls to avoid unwanted viruses?
If they sourced them from Africa this would be blatantly dangerous given the fact that they were then used in America plus the fact that health issues in Africa are a ten to hundred times that of anywhere else on the planet.
Lets hope everything is taken into account in the CDC investigation rather than having our hands forced by denying possible reasons for the health problems just because it might upset people as it seems here for example.
Again I can accept I am just an ordinary person and hope others here don't think they are GOD and can dictate what we do and don't do.
Science is about discovery not the almighty dollar and propagation of blatant falsehoods and misery to the world.
Brazil has a serious health problem and those in the know need to help the country not procrastinate and deflect from proper investigation.
I have confidence in the CDC investigation but have reservations about most events leading to this multiple disaster there.↓
This is a perfectly sensible conversation. It's just not the kind you found you really want to be part of once you've started it. And you've dragged in the red herring of 'multinationals', presumably because that's all you can relate to.
You then say "Science is about discovery not the almighty dollar and propagation of blatant falsehoods and misery to the world."
I've forgotten more science than you will ever know. One of the things I haven't forgotten is that good scientific explanations tend to be parsimonious. That is, the hypothesis with fewest assumptions should be selected.
Firstly, the idea that GMO mosquitoes caused this outbreak is utter nonsense because (a) the epicentre of the outbreak was 400 miles away (b) they were released FOUR YEARS before it occurred and nothing was reported then (c) the virus cannot survive without having a host, and nobody reported any major spike in Zika symptoms before the outbreak in the preceding years and (d) it's an RNA virus that cannot infect mosquitoes and stowaway in their genes and (e) the mosquitoes in question can only thrive in a lab and they are male mosquitoes (which don't bite) and would die out anyway, after delivering their lethal genetic payload.
Secondly, the idea that the larvicide causes microcephaly is also utter nonsense because (a) the most heavily hit areas in Brazil have had no treatment with the larvicide (b) microcephaly has been growing in prevalence in treated and untreated areas (c) extensive animal testing has been carried out and shows effects only at huge doses and quite different to those seen in microcephaly and (d) humans and insects have quite different growth hormone pathways.
All the positive evidence gathered to date implicates Zika as the sole culprit in this outbreak.
Sometimes, if you are too ignorant or simply not bright enough to comprehend scientific reasoning, then it's best to keep you mouth shut on sensitive issues. Going around talking garbage is one thing, having an expectation that you will be treated with respect is another entirely.↓
"CDC confirms Zika virus causes microcephaly, other birth defects"
This puts the discussion about the role of PYRIPROXYFEN to rest.↓
Hats off to Scott and John Fryer.
Respectfully, the rest of you do not know what you are talking about – the authorities you tout are just a bunch of scientific/medical mobsters looking to keep the taxpayer money coming in for yet more command economy style vaccine development. Remember Ebola? How many ebola vaccine patents are there dating back to the 1990s? Come on now.
Actually the disscussion has just begun. Zika cannot be the sole cause of a microcephaly outbreak. It is scientifically impossible unless the virus was deliberately engineered.
Have you not read the relavent literature?
The "mechanism":
Pyriproxyfen is a growth inhibitor i.e. a mutagen, meaning it is a hormone disruptor, and yes it would bioaccumulate in the tissues (such as the brain), much like agent Orange (dioxins). The presence of mutagens in the body would enhance any pre-existing pathogenic or non-pathogenic infections and would allow normally benign viruses (such as Zika) further pathogenic potential.
Evans, D. et al. A Possible link Between Pyriproxyfen and Microcephaly. PeerJ Preprints April 14 2016
Have you Studied the National Cancer Institue's Special Virus Cancer Reports from the 1960's and 1970's describing the co-carcinogenic effect of carcinogens, mutagens and oncogenic RNA viruses in the development of Cancer? What about the studies on how enviromnetal pollutants provide oncogenic enhancement to RNA tumor viruses? Obviously you have not read much.
Have you read their research on how they combined viruses together in order to infect different species – how human tumors were tranplanted into mice in order generate a retrovirus that was capable of infecting human cells?
How about how chemcial carcinogens and mutagens can be used to generate expression of ERVs (that is endogenous "inherited" Retroviruses within the cell genome)
What about the Aerosol experiments with RLV (a murine retrovirus) and concurent RLV vaccine trials on human subjects – why did that happen do you think?
what about viral co-infections, how about bacterial, viral, parasite and fungal co-infections?
These experiments were all done by the medical and scientific "authorities" years ago, they just didn't tell you about them. Best of all these records are freely availabe on the internet archive or FOIA request
for those who wish it.
Ben, Clyde and Mark you really need to do some serious research – not just post news articles as bonafied authoritative truth when they are not.
The real issue here is population control i.e the relaxing of Brazil's anti-abortion laws through economic and biological punishment.
Revenge of Rio Tinto


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