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- GSM frequency bands
GSM frequency bands or frequency ranges are the cellular frequencies designated by the ITU for the operation of GSM mobile phones.
GSM frequency bands
There are fourteen bands defined in 3GPP TS 45.005, which succeeded 3GPP TS 05.05:
System Band Uplink (MHz) Downlink (MHz) Channel number T-GSM-380 380 380.2–389.8 390.2–399.8 dynamic T-GSM-410 410 410.2–419.8 420.2–429.8 dynamic GSM-450 450 450.6–457.6 460.6–467.6 259–293 GSM-480 480 479.0–486.0 489.0–496.0 306–340 GSM-710 710 698.2–716.2 728.2–746.2 dynamic GSM-750 750 747.2–762.2 777.2–792.2 438–511 T-GSM-810 810 806.2–821.2 851.2–866.2 dynamic GSM-850 850 824.2–849.2 869.2–894.2 128–251 P-GSM-900 900 890.0–915.0 935.0–960.0 1–124 E-GSM-900 900 880.0–915.0 925.0–960.0 975–1023, 0-124 R-GSM-900 900 876.0–915.0 921.0–960.0 955–1023, 0-124 T-GSM-900 900 870.4–876.0 915.4–921.0 dynamic DCS-1800 1800 1710.2–1784.8 1805.2–1879.8 512–885 PCS-1900 1900 1850.2–1909.8 1930.2–1989.8 512–810
- P-GSM, Standard or Primary GSM-900 Band
- E-GSM, Extended GSM-900 Band (includes Standard GSM-900 band)
- R-GSM, Railways GSM-900 Band (includes Standard and Extended GSM-900 band)
GSM-900, GSM-1800 and EGSM/EGSM-900
GSM-900 and GSM-1800 are used in most parts of the world: Europe, Middle East, Africa, Australia, Oceania (and most of Asia). In South and Central America the following countries use the following:
- Peru - GSM-1900
- Costa Rica - GSM-1800
- Brazil - GSM-850, 900, 1800 and 1900
- Guatemala - GSM-850, GSM-900 and 1900
- El Salvador - GSM-850, GSM-900 and 1900
GSM-900 uses 890–915 MHz to send information from the mobile station to the base station (uplink) and 935–960 MHz for the other direction (downlink), providing 124 RF channels (channel numbers 1 to 124) spaced at 200 kHz. Duplex spacing of 45 MHz is used. Guard bands 100 kHz wide are placed at either end of the range of frequencies.[2]
GSM-1800 uses 1710–1785 MHz to send information from the mobile station to the base transceiver station (uplink) and 1805–1880 MHz for the other direction (downlink), providing 374 channels (channel numbers 512 to 885). Duplex spacing is 95 MHz. GSM-1800 is also called DCS (Digital Cellular Service) in the United Kingdom, while being called PCS in Hong Kong[3] (not to mix up with GSM-1900 which is commonly called PCS in the rest of the world.) Mobile Communication Services on Aircraft (MCA) uses GSM1800.[4]
GSM-850 and GSM-1900
GSM-850 and GSM-1900 are used in Brazil, Canada, the United States and many other countries in the Americas.
- GSM-850 uses 824–849 MHz to send information from the mobile station to the base station (uplink) and 869–894 MHz for the other direction (downlink). Channel numbers are 128 to 251.
- GSM-850 is also sometimes called GSM-800 because this frequency range was known as the "800 MHz band" (for simplification) when it was first allocated for AMPS in the United States in 1983.
- The term Cellular is sometimes used to describe the 850 MHz band, because the original analog cellular mobile communication system was allocated in this spectrum.
- GSM-1900 uses 1850–1910 MHz to send information from the mobile station to the base station (uplink) and 1930–1990 MHz for the other direction (downlink). Channel numbers are 512 to 810.
- PCS is the original name in North America for the 1900 MHz band. It is an initialism for Personal Communications Service.
Another less common GSM version is GSM-450.[5] It uses the same band as, and can co-exist with, old analog NMT systems. NMT is a first generation (1G) mobile phone system which was primarily used in Nordic countries, Benelux, Alpine Countries, Eastern Europe and Russia prior to the introduction of GSM. It operates in either 450.4–457.6 MHz paired with 460.4–467.6 MHz (channel numbers 259 to 293), or 478.8–486 MHz paired with 488.8–496 MHz (channel numbers 306 to 340). The GSM Association claims one of its around 680 operator-members has a license to operate a GSM 450 network in Tanzania. However, currently all active public operators in Tanzania use GSM 900/1800 MHz. Overall, where the 450 MHz NMT band exists, it either still runs NMT, or its been replaced by CDMA. GSM-450 is a provision, it has not seen commercial deployment.
GSM frequency usage across the world
The Americas
In North America, GSM operates on the primary mobile communication bands 850 MHz and 1900 MHz. In Canada, GSM-1900 is the primary band used in urban areas with 850 as a backup, and GSM-850 being the primary rural band. In the United States, regulatory requirements determine which area can use which band.
GSM-1900 and GSM-850 are also used in most of South and Central America, and both Ecuador and Panama use GSM-850 exclusively (Note: Since November 2008, a Panamanian operator has begun to offer GSM-1900 service). Venezuela and Brazil use GSM-850 and GSM-900/1800 mixing the European and American bands. Some countries in the Americas use GSM-900 or GSM-1800, some others use 3, GSM-850/900/1900, GSM-850/1800/1900, GSM-900/1800/1900 or GSM-850/900/1800. Soon some countries will use GSM-850/900/1800/1900 MHz like the Dominican Republic, Trinidad & Tobago and Venezuela.
In Brazil, the 1900 MHz band is paired with 2100 MHz to form the IMT-compliant 2100 MHz band for 3G services.
The result is a mixture of usage in the Americas that requires travelers to confirm that the phones they have are compatible with the band of the networks at their destinations. Frequency compatibility problems can be avoided through the use of multi-band (tri-band or, especially, quad-band), phones.
Africa, Europe, Middle East and Asia
In Africa, Europe, Middle East and Asia most of the providers use 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands. GSM-900 is most widely used. Fewer operators use DCS-1800 and GSM-1800. A dual-band 900/1800 phone is required to be compatible with almost all operators. At least the GSM-900 band must be supported in order to be compatible with many operators.
Multi-band and multi-mode phones
Today, most telephones support multiple bands as used in different countries to facilitate roaming. These are typically referred to as multi-band phones. Dual-band phones can cover GSM networks in pairs such as 900 and 1800 MHz frequencies (Europe, Asia, Australia and Brazil) or 850 and 1900 (North America and Brazil). European tri-band phones typically cover the 900, 1800 and 1900 bands giving good coverage in Europe and allowing limited use in North America, while North American tri-band phones utilize 850, 1800 and 1900 for widespread North American service but limited worldwide use. A new addition has been the quad-band phone, also known as a world phone, supporting all four major GSM bands, allowing for global use (excluding non-GSM countries such as Japan or South Korea).
There are also multi-mode phones which can operate on GSM as well as on other mobile phone systems using other technical standards or proprietary technologies. Often these phones use multiple frequency bands as well. For example, one version of the Nokia 6340i GAIT phone sold in North America can operate on GSM-1900, GSM-850 and legacy TDMA-1900, TDMA-800, and AMPS-800, making it both multi-mode and multi-band. As a more recent example the Apple iPhone 4S supports quad-band GSM at 850/900/1800/1900 MHz, quad-band UMTS/HSDPA/HSUPA at 850/900/1900/2100 MHz, and dual-band CDMA EV-DO Rev. A at 800/1900 MHz, for a total of six different frequencies (though at most four in a single mode). This allows the same handset to be sold for AT&T, Verizon, and Sprint in the U.S. as well as a broad range of GSM carriers worldwide such as Vodafone, Orange and T-Mobile (Excluding-US), many of whom offer official unlocking.
Note that while the Nexus One, like many other devices on the market, may also become available in a UMTS I/II/IV or 2100/1900/850MHz combo,[7] it would still be considered tri-band UMTS, not quad-band, as the hardware is limited to supporting any 3 bands at one time. Further, as HSPA runs atop UMTS, it would not be considered a "mode" by strict definition.
See also
- Cellular frequencies
- Roaming
- UMTS frequency bands
- United States 2008 wireless spectrum auction
- ^ 3GPP TS 05.05 version 8.20.0 Release 1999 Pages 9 and 10
- ^ Rappaport, Theodore S., Wireless Communications: Principles and Practices, 2nd Ed. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall, 2002. p. 554.
- ^ OFTA of HK, Office of the Telecommunications Authority
- ^ http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=MEMO/08/220&format=HTML&aged=1&language=EN&guiLanguage=en
- ^ Ericsson, Nokia Eye 450 MHz GSM technology
- ^ gsm bands
- ^ "Nexus One for AT&T's 3G bands likely in the works". Engadget. 2010. http://www.engadget.com/2010/01/29/nexus-one-for-atandts-3g-bands-likely-in-the-works/.
External links
- GSM Coverage Maps and Roaming Information GSM World's listing of countries, frequencies, and roaming agreements.
- coveragemaps.com - Publications - Current Coverage Maps Charts of GSM/3GSM coverage and frequency usage for the world, Europe, Asia and the Americas
- LDpost.com - History of GSM and More GSM history, technology, bands, multi-band phones
- 3GPP Specification detail TS 05.05 Specification 3GPP TS 05.05 Radio Transmission and Reception
- 3GPP Specification detail TS 45.005 Specification 3GPP TS 45.005 Radio Transmission and Reception
- 3GPP Specifications for group: R4 - Frequencies info for UMTS (TS 25.101/102/104/105)
- Bandplans
- GSM standard
Wikimedia Foundation. 2010.
Look at other dictionaries:
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Veteran lightweight John Gunderson (34-14-2) would like to welcome recent World Series of Fighting signee Jacob Volkmann (15-4) into the promotion's decagon.
"I just don't like the guy," Gunderson on Wednesday told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com). "I don't like any of the s— he says, and I don't like the style he fights. He's gotten on my nerves ever since I've seen him fight."
The UFC vet, whose WSOF debut was delayed by a neck injury, is back to training at upstart Las Vegas gym Syndicate MMA, where he works alongside UFC vets Mike Pyle, Vinny Magalhaes and others.
"We've got the top guys in Las Vegas," Gunderson said. "We've got the best of everything under one roof."
Gunderson anticipates a return to the cage in June, which at the moment doesn't line up with Volkmann's targeted debut in April at WSOF 3.
Volkmann recently signed with WSOF following his release from the UFC. He was cut from the promotion following a submission loss to Bobby Green at UFC 156. His record inside the octagon was 6-4 record.
A WSOF official said upcoming matchups for both fighters weren't finalized. The promotion currently is working to fill its second fight card, which is slated for March 23 at Revel Atlantic City in New Jersey.
Volkmann wasn't available for comment.
WSOF recently announced a three-year broadcast agreement with NBC Sports Network, which broadcast its inaugural event this past November. The deal calls for six events annually.
Gunderson most recently fought this past July, when he lost by second-round submission to David Castillo at a regional event. The setback came after wins against UFC vets Justin Buchholz and Karo Parisyan. In a three-fight stint with the UFC in 2010, he went 1-2.
Gunderson said Volkmann presents a perfect opportunity for a turnaround.
"I would rather fight someone that I don't like and would like to punch in the face," he said. "I'd like to fight someone that would give me motivation."
For the latest on WSOF 2, stayed tuned to the MMA Rumors section of the site.
(Pictured: John Gunderson)

subset: commoncrawl


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Embedded above is a short segment produced by Make about one of our most fundamental circuit components: the resistor. Although brief at just five minutes, it covers resistor basics and the historical development of Ohm's law.
11 thoughts on "Make: The Resistor"
Pretty basic, and really slow…
Whole video should have been 2 minutes, for the content in it.
Good video, but you're right, it's too quick, i'd like something a bit more juicy.
@anonymous: I thought the same..
An excellent Audio Visual supplement to the subject of resistors for anyone young or old, whom maybe be studying Basic Electronics.
I guess it depends on your skill level, I found a useful little video, I enjoyed the paper resistor at the end, very informative.
This is cool none the less.I am always looking for simple ways to get the kids involved in building/hacking/discovering. I am going to do this with them and teach them about resistors.
yeah great well done, wish i'd seen something like this at school, i might have paid more attention and be able to remember the colour codes
This was super boring
This is the most worst thing i've never seen. This is to explain how the resistors work with a perl of humour, but think this humour is too much in this kind of subject…
GDI Consultant
At 5 minutes and free, I wasn't expecting much, but at least mention voltage dividers, and maybe reference how resistors can change charge/discharge rates of caps. By explaining a voltage divider, at least newbies can get an idea how a volume knob works.
I like it! But I have a MINOR problem… or two..
1)Cant find my alligator clips! But I DO have a mutimeter!
2)My Multimeter just says 1., the whole time, unless I touch the positive and negative ends togeter.


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A team of researchers from Stanford University, along with scientists from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, have proposed a new class of robots that could someday roll and hop across the surface of the Martian moon, Phobos. Called 'hedgehogs,' they would be launched from a mothership and then autonomously explore the surface.
The spherical robots would measure about half a meter in width (1.6 feet) and be equipped with spikes to help it along as it rolls around low gravity environments (Phobos has gravity that's 1,000 times weaker than Mars). As the hedgehogs performs its work, it would transmit the details of its findings back to the mothership, the Phobos Surveyor, which is waiting in orbit. And in return, the ship will jointly determine its location and orientation, along with mapping its trajectory.
In order to allow for the movement, the hedgehogs will have three rotating orthogonal flywheels inside it, each aimed in a different direction. The spinning disks have intertial forces that will allow the sphere to move with precision in an environment where traditional rovers would bounce or float with reckless abandon.
After a quick acceleration, each hedgehog will be able to hop for long-range ground coverage (as much as 10 meters high (32 feet) in some circumstances). Further accelerations will allow them to tumble in a way that will allow for fine movements.
Should the proposal be approved, the entire mission could last up to three years.
More information about this project can be found here and here.
Images via Stanford.


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The MetalStrike from Genius is a Joystick With Built-In Air Conditioning. Yeah, I'm just going to leave that one hanging for a bit. I sometimes wonder if when future generations talk about our era and the decades-long financial and environmental apocalypse that it produced, they will mention stuff like this as indicators that our civilization was not just in decline but stick-a-fork-in-em done.Anyway, if hot hands is such a problem for you that you think you can justify the purchase of one of these you should know that it features "Three levels (off/1/2) of air control to keep your hand cool plus feel the effects of flying". It also comes with vibration, force-feedback and 13 programmable buttons. Hang on - Isn't that actually two levels plus 'off'? Hmm. Hand-cooling joystick for sweaty flight-simmers [Boing Boing Gadgets]
More from Kotaku
um... is palm sweat even from heat? I always thought it was more from nervousness/excitement.


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Product code: 307013
The ESBE series F is a valve made of cast iron for use inheating and cooling installations. The mixing proportions are adjusted manually with a handle or, in automatically controlled systems, by means of an actuator. Suitable actuators are ESBE series 90. The valve can alco be equipped with ESBE controllers series 90C, CRA120 or CRA110 and CRB =DN40. Valve series 3F is available in dimensions DN 20-150 with flanged connections. The scale is graded on both sides and can be turned, allowing a choice of mounting positions. Operation angle =90 degrees.


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I guess this was fairly inevitable. Coming off the opening weekend box office success of the sequel Texas Chainsaw 3D, Millennium Films is now moving forward with a follow-up film. The news was first reported by Bloody Disgusting, and Deadline now confirms that production on the untitled sequel is set to get underway later this year in Louisiana. Producer Carl Mazzocone and executive producers Mark Burg, Avi Lerner, Tobe Hooper, Trevor Short, John Thompson, Danny Dimbort, Lati Grobman, and Christa Campbell will all return.
Despite scathing reviews, Texas Chainsaw 3D bested the likes of The Hobbit and Django Unchained to land the number one spot at the box office last weekend with $23 million. BD's report notes that the producers have acquired the rights to make up to 7 Texas Chainsaw sequels, so depending on how further installments fare, Leatherface may be sticking around for some time to come.


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The last thing you want to do when critics are calling your movie tie-in game one of the worst titles of 2010 is release a playable demo for the Xbox 360, yet here we are.
When you've got a completely ass-tastic video game on your hands that could possibly still generate sales from movie fans who don't know any better, it's not a good idea to give players a free chance to see just how bad the game really is. Either Sega is on a brutal honesty kick, or someone over there still thinks Iron Man 2 is good enough to pick up more sales if it gets into the hands of the players.
That would be an incorrect assumption.
I suppose someone out there will download the demo and think it's the absolute bee's knees, but that someone probably isn't reading this, so they're beyond help.
As for the rest of you, here's an excellent chance to see how badly Sega screwed this one up without having to spend any money.
Demo: Iron Man 2 [Major Nelson]


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Discover for free which first names would suit you or your baby !
Meaning of name Evgenia
Etymology : Modern Greek form of EUGENIA
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Origin : Greek
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Who are they?
Evgenia and Murasaki are active, independent, authoritarian and eager to impress. They live with two opposing influences; one of which is characterized by a bossy and ambitious streak that pushes them to take action and firmly take hold of the reins of their destiny without worrying about anybody else. This tendency will be more accentuated if they were born on the 1st, 10th, 19th or 28th day of the month or if they have a life Path Number of 1. The other tendency makes them more passive, conciliatory and cooperative, shy and lazy - and willing to do anything to keep the peace. This will be more pronounced if they were born on a 2nd, 11th, 20th, 29th, or if they have a life Path Number of 2; and will lead them to paradoxical situations where, if left to their own devices, they will become bossy and controlling to the point of appearing conceited, ruthless, arrogant or opportunistic. On the other hand, if they feel well supported emotionally, they tend to soften up and are more willing to compromise. In any case, they possess savvy and are apt to plan, organise and manage, without too much difficulty; thanks to their above average practical intelligence and a firm grasp of concrete reality. They are impatient, impulsive, passionate and very emotional characters; however their feelings tend to be fleeting and volatile, making them capricious at times. They are big-hearted and generous souls although they don´t always know how to express their emotions. As children, they could be shy and apprehensive because their active imagination often plays tricks on them (especially if they were born in February or in November). They therefore require plenty of reassurance and stimulation by conferring them responsibilities from a young age so that they can gain confidence in themselves. However, Evgenia and Murasaki could equally be bold, argumentative or reckless, or all three, especially if they were born in August.
What do they like?
With the master number 11, when it comes to their hopes and dreams, Evgenia and Murasaki are often drawn to explore the social sciences: psychology and education but also parapsychology which could help quench their thirst for magical and marvellous. They could support and take care of others, and provide an attentive ear. If they are unable to cope with the vibrations of this master number (which is karmic), that demand great strength, self-mastery and courage; they will experience the same energies an octave below, with the influence of the number 2: more fragile, passive and happy to follow the crowd, with security, conciliation and peace and quiet as their objectives in life. Their love lives are very important to them, and they count on finding their soul-mate whatever it takes. Romantic and sentimental as they are, they could be tempted to become overly absorbed by their emotional lives; however they won´t feel complete satisfaction unless they are also able to pursue professional fulfilment, because deep down, they are extremely ambitious.
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What do they do?
Evgenia and Murasaki are inclined to work as part of a partnership, association or couple, because they benefit from the emotional support. Otherwise, they will choose to set themselves up in business or exercise a liberal profession, creative activity or an occupation in connection with children, or other people (counselling), or in relation to the world of finance (banking, economy, accounting...).
Discover others girls first names : Éva Evadne Evaline
*To note: :
It sometimes happens that two different first names have the same meaning. This has nothing surprising: both first names have the same figures of numerology. It is as in astrology: two persons belonging to the same sign present the same characteristic...
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Your Name Horoscope !
Thanks to the numerology, we propose you daily a horoscope personalized for your first name. Love, money , Shape: discover what waits for you for today. In Bonus every day find your daily lucky figure .. Horoscope of the first names
Love :Couples: The complicity between the two of you will be reinforced. Singles: An admirer will make themselves known.
Money :You are trying to decide whether or not to make a property investment. Take your time.
Health:You won't see any results without some effort Evgenia .
Your Lucky number : 80


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Marvel's gearing up for the release of The Avengers with some curious promotions, but here's one that's pretty magnificent. Come April, Marvel will give select comics variant covers depicting Earth's Mightiest Heroes as illustrated by the likes of Rembrandt, Michelangelo, and Monet. Here's what they've unveiled so far. I wouldn't mind having that Georges Seurat hang in my boudoir one iota.
By Christian Nauck
By Mike Del Mundo
By Gabrielle Dell'Otto
By Stephanie Hans
By Steffe Schutzee
By Michael Kaluta
By Charles Paul Wilson III
By Greg Horn
By Joe Quinones
By Julian Totino
By Greg Horn
By John Tyler Christopher
By Gurihiru
By Alex Maleev
By Khoi Pham


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It's official. When Walter White and Jesse Pinkman are wrapping up their five seasons of meth-making antics, Danny Amendola and Rob Gronkowski will be able to watch.
Amendola and Gronkowski, who reportedly didn't make the trip from New England to Atlanta, officially have been downgraded from questionable to out.
It's a common outcome for players who are designated on Friday as having a 50-50 chance of playing. Come Saturday, the 50 goes to zero when the player ends up not making the trip to the site of the game.
The fact that home-team players rarely get downgraded from questionable to out reconfirms that team's play games with the injury reports. (I know, you're shocked.) The Patriots, who proclaimed that both players have an equal chance of playing and not playing just a day ago, were forced to concede that the players aren't playing when they left them home.
The fact that the Patriots knew more than 24 hours before kickoff that the players couldn't play suggests that the actual likelihood of the players playing was far closer to doubtful than questionable on Friday.
But all's fair in love, war, and football, which coaches all too often love to compare to war when justifying methods that don't necessarily comply with the letter or spirit of the rules.


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A heap of new music videos represent for science fiction. But the stand-out video this time around is Common's "Universal Mind Control" video, featuring Pharrell as a robot. Not only is the track a hit, but the dancing robot's moves are far and away some of the best robot strides I've ever seen. I dare you not to dance along to this video. Also, Torchwood's John Barrowman has got his own album coming out, and we're bringing you the cheese-tastic video. Who wins — Common or Captain Jack?Common featuring Pharrell - "Universal Mind Control" If you can't dance to this then your heart is made of stone. This could very well be my new favorite singing robot. The track is from the album this Invincible Summer. Click to view Locksley - "All Over Again" Don't smoosh our new rockstars, giant beast. "All Over Again" is from the album Don't Make Me Wait, and the title track is yet another good track from Locksley.
Arsenal - "Estupendo" Great dance-animation which made me think of Tron.
John Barrowman - "What About Us" The man rhymes "don't wanna blame ya" with "we're In Danga." Barrowman's album Music Music Music is out November 24th. Swoon, Torchwood fans, swoon over these ridiculously saccharine lyrics that actually fit quite well with baby-face Barrowman's shtick.


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Autism has been in the headlines again lately.
A new study suggests older mothers are more likely to have a child with autism. Previous research found that risk of autism increased with the age of the father. According to this new study, published in the February issue of the journal Autism Research, every five-year increase in a mother's age raised her risk of having a child with autism by 18 percent.
Also in the news within the past few weeks was a retraction of a controversial autism research study published in 1998. The British medical journal The Lancet retracted the study, which suggested a link between the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine and autism, for making claims that "have been proved to be false," after the study's lead investigator was cited by a U.K. regulatory panel for "acting dishonestly and irresponsibly." It's also important to note that many subsequent attempts to duplicate the study's findings have been unsuccessful.
To put this all in perspective, here's more background on autism, and on the MMR vaccine and other things some believe to be associated with autism:
Autism spectrum disorder affects the brain's development of social and communication skills. Somewhere along the way, something disrupts the normal structural or chemical growth of the brain. The symptoms range from mild (for example, slight social and communication impairment) to more severe (which may also include substantial delays in language development, and unusual behaviors and interests).
Last December, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention increased its estimate of the number of U.S. children with autism spectrum disorder to 1 in 110 children aged 8. (The researchers used data for 8-year-olds because by age 8 most children have been identified as having this disorder for services.) This is an average increase of about 57 percent over the CDC's previous study, held in 2002. These estimates also indicate that 1 in 70 boys and 1 in 315 girls have an autism spectrum disorder, which means its prevalence is four to five times higher for boys than for girls.
The perceived increase in the prevalence of autism in recent years has made it a highly contentious topic with a multitude of exceptionally vocal groups weighing in on the subject. Some argue that there are more diagnosed cases of autism because physicians and the general public have become more attentive to its symptoms. Others are certain that environmental pollutants play a significant role. Many more believe childhood vaccines, particularly the MMR vaccine, are to blame. Some in this group believe that thimerosal, a preservative in the MMR vaccine that contains mercury, had a role in causing autism, even though the Institute of Medicine (part of the National Academy of Sciences) concluded that there is no link between autism and vaccines made with thimerosal. (But because of continued public concern, thimerosal-free vaccines have been licensed since 1999, and today, the MMR vaccine no longer contains thimerosal as a preservative.)
Although these theories may be interesting in the press and help generate awareness about autism, studies have been inconclusive.
As a doctor, I base my medical decisions on sound, reliable science. While more scientific research needs to be done, we have no other significant large-scale studies to associate the MMR vaccine with autism. There are simply too many questions. But we do know for a fact that measles, mumps, and rubella are all very serious illnesses that can lead to severe long-term disabilities and even death. Until we have consistent research showing a connection between the MMR vaccine and autism spectrum disorder, I believe the potential benefits from receiving the vaccine far outweigh the risks. If I had young children today, I would have them vaccinated.
Regardless of your position on this controversial subject, I strongly encourage all parents to have a frank, honest discussion with their children's doctor prior to making any medical decisions, including immunizations. Parents of young children also should watch for any signs of developmental issues with their children and talk to their doctors about any concerns.
Mind your health,
Dr. Black
For more information on Dr. Black, visit the Cedars-Sinai Department of Neurosurgery at www.cedars-sinai.edu/neurosurgery.
Important: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and not Everyday Health.


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Follow RFF News on your cell phone. Text follow rff to 40404 you will receive txt messages with RFF News
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Do you all notice that Rachel's hair is not bright red anymore. Makes me wonder if she's going back to her natural color which I hope she is and think she will look prettier with brown hair. And I notice how fast Brendon's hair is growing back. He has a nice buzz cut style going on now.
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In today's volatile investment arena, secure investments providing competitive returns are few and far between. For those clients who have grown weary of the fluctuating market for stocks and bonds, the steady returns offered by so-called "permanent" life insurance policies may be the solution.
In an environment where traditionally "safe" investments, such as bonds and CDs, are earning returns in the low single-digits, permanent life insurance has emerged as a competitive product where returns steadily rival and exceed more traditional investment vehicles. Considering the premium placed on stability in recent years, investing in a permanent life policy might be the best bargain on the market.
Why Permanent Life?
As the name suggests, a permanent life insurance policy remains in effect for the client's entire life. While these policies are more expensive than term life insurance, which insures the client for only a specific term, they are guaranteed to provide a death benefit as long as the policy is maintained.
In addition to the guaranteed death benefit, permanent life insurance policies allow the policyholder to accumulate cash in the policy that can be withdrawn tax-free in the future. Much like a Roth IRA, the growth realized on the cash value of the policy is not subject to tax, making these policies a powerful savings vehicle for clients who have already maxed out their contributions to traditional retirement accounts.
Further, many of these policies are issued by insurers called "mutuals," which means that they are owned by the policyholders themselves, so profits are not split with public stockholders. This has contributed to their ability to provide steady rates of return even throughout the recent recession. In fact, many policyholders would have to earn between 5% and 6% after taxes each year in order to beat the insurance policy's rate of return—making the insurance policy a better investment than many bonds.
Potential Traps
Purchasing a permanent life insurance policy can be complicated because there are so many options on the market, so it is critical that your clients understand the differences between policies. Perhaps most important is that you advise them of the period of time that must elapse before they begin to see cash value accumulate within the policy. This period will vary based on the policy's fees and premiums.
It is also important that your clients understand that these policies are often much more expensive than a term life insurance policy. Many advisors advocate combining the purchase of term life insurance with an independent bond-investing strategy as a better method for realizing the same level of returns even in a down market.
Older clients must realize that their lower life expectancies will leave them with less time to accumulate cash value in the policy. While the death benefit is guaranteed, some policies take several years before substantial cash value is accumulated. The longer this cash value is permitted to grow, the greater the tax-deferral benefits become.
Like any other investment strategy, whether permanent life insurance will provide the best investment vehicle for your clients depends on their financial position and goals. Despite this, one thing remains certain—for those clients looking for competitive, yet stable, returns, permanent life insurance deserves a closer look.
For additional coverage of this issue and similar ones, we invite you to sign up with AdvisorOne's Summit Business Media partner, National Underwriter Advanced Markets, for a free trial.
You may also be interested in signing up for a free trial with another Summit Business Media partner, Tax Facts Online.


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Corning Optical Communications LLC, part of Corning Incorporated's (NYSE:GLW) Telecommunications segment, introduces OptiSheath® MF2 and MF4 MultiPort Fiber Terminal Solutions for remote radio connectivity in fiber-to-the-antenna (FTTA) applications. The new solutions include terminals with two optical fibers per port (MF2) or four optical fibers per port (MF4), and remote radio cable assemblies (RRCAs). The fiber optic cable assemblies create the fiber optic link between the remote radio unit and a tower-top consolidation terminal.
Designed and third-party tested to the requirements of Telcordia GR-771-CORE, Issue 1, these terminals are available with two, three, four, six or 12 OptiTip® Multifiber Connector ports. The OptiTip Connector features the MT connector ferrule in an environmentally hardened connector body, providing quick and easy connectivity for either tower or rooftop installations.
OptiSheath MF2 or MF4 MultiPort Terminals are also available with or without an integrated cable stub for connection of a custom cable assembly. The integrated cable stub is available in a range of cable lengths, with both flat and round cable designs. The stub can be ordered with a bare end for splicing, or preterminated for plug-in connections. Non-stubbed terminals are used with a cable assembly with one multifiber connector (the OptiTip Vertical Cable Assembly) as an input from the tower base station. Multifiber connector ports support a variety of network designs, and spare ports allow for growth and deferment, reducing opex. The terminal's versatility simplifies inventory and installation techniques, and allows for quicker, easier deployments.
Preconnectorized solutions are beneficial in the tower-top environment for their high quality and rapid installation without needing highly specialized tools. Where a tower-top consolidation terminal is used, the RRCA creates a short link to each remote radio that can be easily placed and connected. The assemblies are made with lightweight, low-profile cables and offer a range of single- and multi-fiber connector options.
To learn more about OptiSheath MF2 or MF4 MultiPort Terminal Solutions for FTTA applications, visit Corning Optical Communications' exhibit (booth #5208) at CTIA Wireless®, May 8-10, in New Orleans.
For additional information on Corning Optical Communications products and services, contact a customer service representative at 1-800-743-2675, toll free in the United States, or (+1) 828-901-5000, international, or visit the website at www.corning.com/opcomm .
About Corning Incorporated
Corning Incorporated ( www.corning.com ) is the world leader in specialty glass and ceramics. Drawing on more than 160 years of materials science and process engineering knowledge, Corning creates and makes keystone components that enable high-technology systems for consumer electronics, mobile emissions control, telecommunications and life sciences.
Our products include glass substrates for LCD televisions, computer monitors and laptops; ceramic substrates and filters for mobile emission control systems; optical fiber, cable, hardware & equipment for telecommunications networks; optical biosensors for drug discovery; and other advanced optics and specialty glass solutions for a number of industries including semiconductor, aerospace, defense, astronomy and metrology.
Media Relations Contacts:
Stephanie Hicks
(828) 291-6016
Joseph M. Dunning
(607) 974-5006


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The 503d Parachute Infantry Regiment in Australia & New Guinea
by Paul F. Whitman
This is the price your customers see. Edit list price
About the Book
Being the "purveyor" of a website about the 503d Parachute Infantry Regiment, I have acquired a number of images from a number of collections. As much as I believe in websites as the educational resource of the future, and have published the images "free to air", there's something sensual - and reasssuringly permanent - about the feel of a book that I can't resist. Thus I am featuring the individual collections in their own publications. This is the second of the current pictorial series.
This book contains only a selection from the collection of images in the possession of Chet Nycum, of 3rd Platoon, "G" Company, 503d PIR. The images aren't all his, though many are. The ultimate photographers of many of the images are lost in the mists of time, or in this case perhaps, the fog of war. Essentially, this is a collection of the way that the paratroopers' see themselves. Many of the images were included in a larger collection which appeared from time to time at reunions of the 503d PRCT. Even at the reunions, many of the images lacked for any type of caption or identification.
In compiling and editing this volume, I determined that this not be a book about the war as much as it is about the faces of the young paratroopers who volunteered to fight it. Those faces express the freshness of their youthful naiveté and inexperience, the hopes and dreams of their future days still writ large in their eyes, and their fears quietly supressed in a air of bravado. Then, after their New Guinea experiences have conferred upon them their moment in passing, you can witness their passage towards being a combat veteran. The boy is now gone and the Paratroooper remains.
About the Creator
Through the Corregidor Historic Society and, more recently the 503d PRCT Heritage Regiment., Paul presents thirteen publications, all connected in some way with Corregidor and the US Armed Forces in the SWPA during WWII. He started developing the Corregidor.Org website about the 1941-42 siege and the 1945 retaking of Corregidor as a penance for being an insolvency lawyer. Now retired, he has produced ten websites, more than a dozen Military History books, and has co-produced, with Peter Parsons, the documentary of the 1945 retaking of Corregidor - "CORREGIDOR - THE ROAD BACK. He married Rosie in 1980, has three adult children, and hates cats. He lives between two shores, Corregidor and Brisbane, Australia.


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Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations of the HZDR
International Collaborations
As an important member in several European research networks the HZDR contributes to international research projects like, for example, the Knowledge and Innovation Community EIT Raw Materials. The Center also maintains close contact with the ESRF in Grenoble, France, the European XFEL near Hamburg, and the Weizmann Institute of Science in Rehovot, Israel.More
Local and National Collaborations
To concentrate competencies and share expertise efficiently, the HZDR works closely with regional and national partners. Thus it collaborates with numerous research facilities in Dresden and is also active in national associations and competence networks.More
Cancer Research in Dresden
Interdisciplinary research is essential to make progress in the fight against cancer. A close cooperation therefore connects the HZDR with the University Hospital and the Technische Universität Dresden at the jointly operated OncoRay Center. Together with the DKFZ in Heidelberg, the three institutions are expanding Dresden to a partner site of the National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT).More


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Oscar-winning actor Kevin Spacey will present the Monte Cristo Award to Oscar and Tony Award winning actor Christopher Plummer at the annual gala fundraiser in New York for Waterford's Eugene O'Neill Theater Center.
The presentation will be made at the Edison Ballroom in Manhattan on Monday night. Spacey was the recipient of the award in 2009.
Directed by Marc Bruni, the evening will feature musical tributes, readings, clips from Plummer's stage roles, and remarks by close friends and colleagues paying homage to a titan of stage, film, and television. O'Neill executive director Preston Whiteway and bioard chairman Tom Viertel will host the ceremony.
The award is given to a prominent theater artist" in recognition of a distinguished career exemplifying Eugene O'Neill's 'pioneering spirit, unceasing artistic commitment, and excellence.'
Previous recipients of the award include: Michael Douglas, James Earl Jones, Harold Prince, Zoe Caldwell, August Wilson, Wendy Wasserstein, Karl Malden and Jason Robards Jr.
The Honorary Committee includes Spacey, Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones, Julie Andrews, Alec Baldwin, Emanuel and Lani Azenberg, André Bishop, Ric Burns, Zoe Caldwell, Antoni Cimolino, Brian Dennehy, Helen Mirren, Jordan Roth, James Schamus, Dean Vanech, Harvey Weinstein, Barry and Fran Weissler.
O'Neill Founder George C. White, Betsy White, O'Neill Chariman Tom Viertel, Pat Daily, and O'Neill Executive Director Preston Whiteway are also on the committee.
Limited tickets still available. Information:www.theoneill.org.


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H fields –>
fields of forel
three circumscript, myelin-rich regions of the subthalamus known as h fields (from Haubenfelder); 1) field H1, corresponding to the thalamic fasciculus, a horizontal fibre stratum at the junction of the subthalamus and the overlying thalamus, is composed of pallidothalamic and cerebellothalamic fibres (brachium conjunctivum) and is separated by the zona incerta from the more ventrally placed field H2; 2) field H2, formed by the lenticular fasciculus and arching over the dorsal border of the subthalamic nucleus, is composed largely of pallidothalamic fibres; 3) field H3 or prerubral field, is a large field of intermingling gray and white matter immediately rostral to the red nucleus, uniting fields H1 and H2 around the medial margin of the zona incerta; its gray matter forms the prerubral nucleus.
See: lenticular loop.
Synonym: campi foreli, Fields">of forel.
H fields
H fields –>


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Scientists are using the power of the web to track and find real disease outbreaks. Every hour, HealthMap, an infectious disease-tracking website, feeds off of news, public health list serves, and the World Health Organisation's online pages to survey the spread of infections. With help from Google, the program has identified 95 percent of all disease outbreaks, sometimes days before the WHO or international disease control agencies can announce them.
Most recently, HealthMap detected the salmonella outbreak in the U.S., which has sickened over 1,000 people, long before the Centre for Disease Control announced that it was happening. By alerting officials and doctors to the most likely diseases in their area, the web tool could help make health care much more efficient and precise. [Discovery]


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Mark Cuban 'Barks' at J.R. Smith for Elbowing Mavs' Wright
Jan 14th 2009 5:20PM by Brett Pollakoff (author feed)
Mavericks' owner Mark Cuban has never been afraid of injecting himself into a situation, and Tuesday night's game against the Denver Nuggets was just another example.
Cuban took exception to an elbow that was thrown by the Nuggets' J.R. Smith to the head of the Mavs' Antoine Wright near the end of the first half. While it didn't connect, Cuban didn't like what he saw, and wasn't afraid to have a little dialogue with Smith about it as the teams headed into halftime.Continue Reading
If Your Name Is Jeff Foxworthy, You Are Apparently a Braves Fan
Jan 14th 2009 5:56PM by Eamonn Brennan (author feed)
On the internet, you learn new things every day. For example: Did you know that the Pittsburgh mayor is changing his last name? Wild, right? I bet you learned about that on the internet today. Want to know what I learned today? That Jeff Foxworthy is a Braves fan, and he is none too pleased about Frank Wren's decision to let John Smoltz play for a team that has a 'B' on their hats rather than an 'A':
"I got a message from the Braves PR department. Derek Lowe was coming in and they wanted me to come talk him into joining the Braves," Foxworthy said. "I was like, not after what you did to my buddy."Continue Reading
Cowboys Reportedly Having 'Serious Discussions About Releasing T.O.'
Jan 14th 2009 6:15PM by Ryan Wilson (author feed)
Terrell Owens is 35 years old and has a $3.1 million roster bonus coming his way in June. Those facts, coupled with the perception that he's not the easiest guy to work with, probably have everything to do with speculation that the Cowboys might release him in the coming months.
Last week, the ' Jean-Jacques Taylor wrote that the organization faced some serious offseason questions, particularly of the "Do we have on staff who can control T.O.?" variety. The obvious answer is: "Bill Parcells," but I'm pretty sure that ship has sailed (or has it?*)
That said, as MDS pointed out at the time, "We should be clear that Owens is in no way, shape or form similar to [the recently released] Pacman [Jones]. Owens is both a much better player on the field than Pacman and a much better person off the field than Pacman. These are not similar situations."Continue Reading
Derrick Favors, Country's Top Prospect, Commits to Georgia Tech
Jan 14th 2009 7:00PM by Will Brinson (author feed)
Derrick Favors, the number one college basketball prospect in the country according to Scout, announced his college decision today and he's going to be a Georgia Tech Yellow Jacket.
Paul Hewitt (right), GT coach, is probably pretty thrilled. Sidney Lowe, who runs the the coffee-less N.C. State Wolfpack, well, probably not so much.
It was mentioned as well during the press conference that the Jackets are hoping to land John Wall, the number one point guard in the country. That seems unlikely though — Wall and Favors only had Memphis as a common recruiting link.Continue Reading
Sam Bradford Returns to Oklahoma to Chase a National Title
Jan 14th 2009 7:30PM by Will Brinson (author feed)
It was rumored before the BCS Championship Game that Sam Bradford allegedly would bolt for the NFL, provided he didn't get injured. The rumor, however unsubstantiated, made a lot of sense considering Bradford's success this season and the likelihood that he would be a top ten pick (to say the least).
But contrary to those reports and the millions of dollars that were waiting for Bradford, he has decided to stay at Oklahoma and sling rocks for at least one more year under big-game coach Bob Stoops.Continue Reading
Derrick Favors Is Very, Very Good: Video Reminder
Jan 14th 2009 8:30PM by Will Brinson (author feed)
Derrick Favors, the number-one ranked college basketball prospect in the country, just announced that he will attend Georgia Tech for his brief stint in the NCAA. As a reminder that Favors is kind of decent, enjoy the following YouTube mashup of him posting a 42-point, 20-rebound, 12-block line.
So, yeah, to say that he's good is probably an understatement — Favors will most likely only be in Atlanta for a single year, but he's going to make Georgia Tech very, very watchable while he's there.
Kobe Bryant to Charge $49.99 Subscription Fee for Website
Jan 14th 2009 8:56PM by Matt Moore (author feed)
Kobe Bryant makes something somewhere north of $30 million dollars a year, at least. He makes $22 million from the Lakers this year. All of his endorsements aren't public knowledge, but you can bet they provide a pretty hefty amount of coin.
So all in all, he's doing pretty well for himself.
Or so you think.
This economy has hit all of us hard. And if you want to survive, you need to treat your assets as a business. You never know when that $30 million a year is going to suddenly vanish into nothing. I mean, that's not really that much more than the average American family makes, you know? Plus, Kobe loves Cheesecake Factory. Do you know how much that costs?
Luckily, Kobe and his people are thinking ahead. They've figured out a way to weather the storm. And it's all in KB24.com.Continue Reading
Mark Sanchez Leaving USC for NFL (a.k.a. 'A Smart Business Decision')
Jan 14th 2009 9:30PM by Will Brinson (author feed)
Mark Sanchez had a pretty good run at USC this year. The team went to the Rose Bowl, pummeled Penn State and has a legit argument to be the national champion.
And he enjoyed his run so much that he's leaving sunny Southern California and heading to the NFL. It seems like an odd thing to do, I suppose, because, well, USC would be a fun place to live and he would be the most popular guy on campus. On the other hand, it makes a whole hell of a lot of sense from a business perspective.
USC is losing a large number of its defensive core to the NFL. But aside from that, think about the various competitors for draft slots he'll be going up against this year versus the potential competition next season.Continue Reading
Ed Podolak's Departure May Not Have Been Necessary, but It's Sad Anyway
Jan 14th 2009 11:45PM by Mark Hasty (author feed)
Look, let's get one thing straight right up front: The University of Iowa did not just discover that Ed Podolak, its longtime radio analyst, liked a good party. Mike Hlas of the Cedar Rapids Gazette confirms that Podolak's good-time proclivities were an open secret in the Hawkeye Nation. So if you think Ed Podolak was forced into retirement because the University didn't like the pictures floating around the internet, please know that it goes deeper than that.
Of course, that doesn't mean that Podolak had to go. While many people are dubious that Podolak actually retired, Hlas says Podolak left of his own volition. That, unfortunately, is what makes an already sad story a little sadder.Continue Reading
LaDainian Tomlinson Revises Stance on Trade Talks, Calls Them 'Ridiculous'
Jan 14th 2009 11:53PM by Will Brinson (author feed)
The LaDainian Tomlinson saga in San Diego is quickly becoming one of the more prevelant themes of an NFL offseason … that hasn't even begun yet.
But we are talking about LdT, and when someone of his stature is suddenly rumored to be on the trade block, only to ignore said trade rumors — which comes just before the team and the San Diego media further the notion that he might have played his last game with the Chargers, well, it becomes kind of a big deal.
Tomlinson has, since the latest reports that Ryan mentioned Wednesday, changed his stance too. He's no longer pretending to not hear people talking; now he's calling the rumors "ridiculous."
Continue Reading


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Hunting for Eggs is just one of the things our youngsters love to do at Eastertime on the East End.
There's no shortage of bunny-related events that will entertain and keep your children busy while creating great memories for the whole family! So hop on over to the Twin Forks and find your Easter treasure.
Here's our list of egg-cellent East End events.
Want more? Check out our Calendar.
Saturday, March 23
Annual Egg Hunt: A Hampton Library Tradition
10 a.m.
Hampton Library, 2478 Main Street, Bridgehampton
This is sure to be a great day on the back lawn for the annual Egg Hunt and storytelling. Rain date, Saturday, March 30, 10 a.m. This is for children up to age 8.
Eggs-travaganza Family Time at Montauk Library
3–4:30 p.m.
871 Montauk Highway, Montauk
Come join the fun playing games and making crafts with your family. Please bring a smock so you don't get your clothes dirty.
Bunny Hop Story and Craft Time at Amagansett Library
3:30–4:30 p.m.
215 Main Street, Amagansett
Bring your family to a great 'bunny' event featuring bunny hops, ears, stories and whatnot!
Easter Egg Hunt
Springs Community Presbyterian Church
10 a.m.
5 Old Stone Highway, East Hampton
$5.00 to hunt for Easter Eggs at this fun local event!
LVIS Annual Easter Egg Hunt
11:00 a.m.
Ladies Village Improvement Society
95 Main Street, East Hampton
Come have some fun and enjoy this time-honored Hamptons Easter tradition!
EQ Chamber of Commerce Annual Easter Egg Hunt
2 p.m.
East Quogue Elementary School, Central Avenue
Prizes and fun for all children-Don't forget to bring your baskets for this fun-filled day! Email Donna Lanzetta at [email protected] or call 631-728-5555. eqny.com
Eggs-trazaganza Family Time
3–4:30 p.m.
Montauk Library, 871 Montauk Highway
Play game and make holiday crafts with your family! Don't forget a smock. Email Julie Ann Korpi at [email protected] or call 631-668-3377. montauklibrary.org
Egg Hunt & Story Time at Hampton Library
10–11 a.m.
2478 Main St., Bridgehampton
Free event for children ages 8 and under. Come participate in the annual egg hunt at the Hampton Library! The action takes place on the gorgeous lawn followed by egg themed stories. Rain date is Saturday March 30. Don't forget your basket.
Westhampton Beach Chamber of Commerce
17th Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Village Scavenger Hunt
11:30 a.m.
The Great Lawn, west end of Main Street, Westhampton Beach
Literally thousands of plastic eggs in a rainbow of colors will be hidden for children to search for and enjoy the surprises inside—chocolate candy, dollar bills, tattoos, coins and miscellaneous other items. In addition, pose for photos with the Easter Bunny. Don't be late, the fire whistle promptly sounds at noon to start the hunt at this free event.
Annual Spring Egg Hunt at Deepwell's Farm County Park
11:00 a.m.
Route 25A and Moriches Road, St. James
Free. Bring your camera and a basket to the front lawn when the hunt begins for children 12 and under.
Sunday March 24, 2013
Easter Egg Coloring at Cittanuova
9 a.m.
29 Newtown Lane, East Hampton
Color Easter eggs at one of East Hampton's favorite Italian restaurants! Call 631-324-6300, cittanuova.com
Saturday March 30, 2013
Annual Penguin Egg Hunt & Family Brunch
Long Island Aquarium & Exhibition Center
10 a.m.–1 p.m.
431 East Main Street, Riverhead
All sorts of prizes await at the annual LI Aquarium Egg Hunt! Win tour boat tickets, vouchers for the Family Fun Center and more. The Family Brunch has seatings at 10 a.m. and 11:45 a.m. in the new Sea Star Ballroom, which is sure to be an awesome venue. $34.95 for adults (members $24.95), children 3-12 and seniors 62 and over $29.95 (members $19.95), free for children 2 and under. Call 631-208-9200, ext H2O (426) for reservations and info. Also, from 2:30-3:30 p.m., kids 2-10 can make their own basket and have fun collecting unique eggs laid by the aquarium's mixed up flightless birds! Registration required, call 516-922-3200. longislandaquarium.com
Bunny Hop Story and Craft Time
3:30–4:30 p.m.
Amagansett Free Library, 215 Main Street, Amagansett
Perfect your bunny hop while sharing bunny tales and wearing bunny ears. This is going to be lots of fun for all! Free stories and crafts for the Easter holiday. Contact Jeanne McDermott at [email protected] or call 631-267-3810. amaglibrary.org
EGGstravaganza! at Quogue Wildlife Refuge
11 a.m.–2:45p.m.
3 Old Country Road, Quogue
Kids get to decorate their own eggs and nests at this outdoor crafts event! Dress appropriately as you are likely to get paint smudges on your clothing. Don't miss out on this chance to inspect the Refuge egg and nest collection and learn a bit more about local wildlife. $5 for children 5-12. Registration is required. Email [email protected] or call 631-653-4771. quoguewildliferefuge.org
Sunday March 31
Annual Easter Egg Hunt
1–2 p.m.
Poxabogue County Park, Old Farm Road, Sagaponack
Please bring a basket and meet at Poxabogue Park, south of the Railroad trestle on Old Farm Road in Sagaponack. Contact Dai Dayton for more information at 537-0660. This event is for children 8 and younger.
Egg Hunt on the Farm! at the Green School
10 a.m.–12 p.m.
739 Butter Lane, Bridgehampton
Have fun on the farm at this exciting Easter egg hunt! Feed farm animals, make art projects, ride ponies and leave with a goodie bag. Be on time—the egg hunt starts at 10:15 a.m. Advanced registration required. Cost is $25 per child and $10 per parent. Call 631-537-1634 to reserve a spot and receive an email with directions. theartfarms.org
Quogue Wildlife Refuge Annual Egg Hunt
9:30-10:30 a.m., 11 a.m.–12 p.m.
3 Old Country Road, Quogue
Create bunny crafts and then hop on down Peter Cottontail's Trail to a special spot on the Refuge for an egg hunt. Each child will receive a special gift. This is a very popular program for children ages 2 to 4, accompanied by an adult, so sign up early! $10 per child. Reservations required. Call 631-653-4771.


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THE SQL Server Blog Spot on the Web
Over the last few years Analysis Services guru Chris Webb and I have been on something of a crusade to enable better access to data that is locked up in countless Excel workbooks that litter the hard drives of enterprise PCs. The most prominent manifestation of that crusade up to now has been a forum thread that Chris began on Microsoft Answers entitled Excel Web App API? Chris began that thread with:
I was wondering whether there was an API for the Excel Web App? Specifically, I was wondering if it was possible (or if it will be possible in the future) to expose data in a spreadsheet in the Excel Web App as an OData feed, in the way that it is possible with Excel Services?
I was wondering whether there was an API for the Excel Web App? Specifically, I was wondering if it was possible (or if it will be possible in the future) to expose data in a spreadsheet in the Excel Web App as an OData feed, in the way that it is possible with Excel Services?
Up to recently the last 10 words of that paragraph "in the way that it is possible with Excel Services" had completely washed over me however a comment on my recent blog post Thoughts on ExcelMashup.com (and a rant) by Josh Booker in which Josh said:
Excel Services is a service application built for sharepoint 2010 which exposes a REST API for excel documents. We're looking forward to pros like you giving it a try now that Office365 makes sharepoint more easily accessible. Can't wait for your future blog about using REST API to load data from Excel on Offce 365 in SSIS.
Excel Services is a service application built for sharepoint 2010 which exposes a REST API for excel documents. We're looking forward to pros like you giving it a try now that Office365 makes sharepoint more easily accessible. Can't wait for your future blog about using REST API to load data from Excel on Offce 365 in SSIS.
made me think that perhaps the Excel Services REST API is something I should be looking into and indeed that is what I have been doing over the past few days. And you know what? I'm rather impressed with some of what Excel Services' REST API has to offer.
Unfortunately Excel Services' REST API also has one debilitating aspect that renders this blog post much less useful than it otherwise would be; namely that it is not publicly available from the Excel Web App on SkyDrive. Therefore all I can do in this blog post is show you screenshots of what the REST API provides in Sharepoint rather than linking you directly to those REST resources; that's a great shame because one of the benefits of a REST API is that it is easily and ubiquitously demonstrable from a web browser. Instead I am hosting a workbook on Sharepoint in Office 365 because that does include Excel Services' REST API but, again, all I can do is show you screenshots.
N.B. If anyone out there knows how to make Office-365-hosted spreadsheets publicly-accessible (i.e. without requiring a username/password) please do let me know (because knowing which forum on which to ask the question is an exercise in futility).
N.B. If anyone out there knows how to make Office-365-hosted spreadsheets publicly-accessible (i.e. without requiring a username/password) please do let me know (because knowing which forum on which to ask the question is an exercise in futility).
In order to demonstrate Excel Services' REST API I needed some decent data and for that I used the World Tourism Organization Statistics Database and Yearbook - United Nations World Tourism Organization dataset hosted on Azure Datamarket (its free, by the way); this dataset "provides comprehensive information on international tourism worldwide and offers a selection of the latest available statistics on international tourist arrivals, tourism receipts and expenditure" and you can explore the data for yourself here. If you want to play along at home by viewing the data as it exists in Excel then it can be viewed here. Let's dive in.
The root of Excel Services' REST API is the model resource which resides at:
Note that this is true for every workbook hosted in a Sharepoint document library - each Excel workbook is a RESTful resource. (Update: Mark Stacey on Twitter tells me that "It's turned off by default in onpremise Sharepoint (1 tickbox to turn on though)". Thanks Mark!)
The data is provided as an ATOM feed but I have Firefox's feed reading ability turned on so you don't see the underlying XML goo. As you can see there are four top level resources, Ranges, Charts, Tables and PivotTables; exploring one of those resources is where things get interesting. Let's take a look at the Tables Resource:
Our workbook contains only one table, called 'Table1' (to reiterate, you can explore this table yourself here). Viewing that table via the REST API is pretty easy, we simply append the name of the table onto our previous URI:
As you can see, that quite simply gives us a representation of the data in that table. What you cannot see from this screenshot is that this is pure HTML that is being served up; that is all well and good but actually we can do more interesting things. If we specify that the data should be returned not as HTML but as:
then that data comes back as a pure image and can be used in any web page where you would ordinarily use images. This is the thing that I really like about Excel Services' REST API – we can embed an image in any web page but instead of being a copy of the data, that image is actually live – if the underlying data in the workbook were to change then hitting refresh will show a new image. Pretty cool, no? The same is true of any Charts or Pivot Tables in your workbook - those can be embedded as images too and if the underlying data changes, boom, the image in your web page changes too.
There is a lot of data in the workbook so the image returned by that previous URI is too large to show here so instead let's take a look at a different resource, this time a range:
That URI returns cells A1 to C15 from a worksheet called "Data":
And if we ask for that as an image again:
Were this image resource not behind a username/password then this would be a live image of the data in the workbook as opposed to one that I had to copy and upload elsewhere. Nonetheless I hope this little wrinkle doesn't detract from the inate value of what I am trying to articulate here; that an existing image in a web page can be changed on-the-fly simply by inserting some data into an Excel workbook. I for one think that that is very cool indeed!
I think that's enough in the way of demo for now as this shows what is possible using Excel Services' REST API. Of course, not all features work quite how I would like and here is a bulleted list of some of my more negative feedback:
That URI provides
the necessary addressability and is a lot easier to remember.
This blog post is as long as it needs to be for a short introduction so I'll stop now. If you want to know more than I recommend checking out a few links:
Any thoughts? Let's hear them in the comments section below!
P.S. If you agree with me that having the same functionality in SQL Server Reporting Services (i.e. rendering a report as an image) would be useful then please vote for it here.
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Nice Article Jaime. There is an unsuported way to make Office365 libraries anonymously accessible, like so:
This may only be possible on the public website after highly cutomizing.
The supported method allows you to invite up to 25 (may have been increased to 50(?) external users to login to your site using their LiveID.
Thanks Josh. In order to make the images embeddable I need anonymous access so the LiveID option isn't feasible.
Can you tell me more about this unsupported method?
Replied via email Re: Anon access.
It involves this solution:
See if you can view this image anonymously:
I think the biggest shortcomming to Excel Web Services is the lack of ability to publish a document programatically. Perhaps there is a way, but I havn't found it. The method to filter data in REST API is set the value of a parameter (named cell). However the parameter has to be setup at the time of publishing otherwise it's not available to Excel Services. This means your
'crusade to enable better access to data that is locked up in countless Excel workbooks that litter the hard drives of enterprise PCs'
would involve a lot of manual effort publishing each doc with valuable parameters. I'm not a big excel user, but it seems to me MS is spending a great deal of effort to make excel more powerful for large datasets. We have named cell parameters, slicers, data connections, powerpivot all serving a similar purpose but usable for only a certain circumstance. What's missing is a single easy way to programatically filter, sort and group. One that's applicable to a sheet of columns and rows, pivot table, charts, External data and Excel Services. My 2 cents.
"•Discoverability of these resources is not easy, we essentially have to handcrank a URI ourselves. Take the example of embedding a chart into a blog post - would it not be better if I could browse first through the document library to an Excel workbook and THEN through the workbook to the chart/range/table that I am interested in? Call it a wizard if you like. That would be really cool and would, I am sure, promote this feature and cut down on the copy-and-paste disease that the REST API is meant to alleviate.
See if you can track this guy down and get them to release this tool:
Sean Boon has begun an interesting blog series where he is analysing data from the Olympics using using
I'm a frequent user of OneNote and so was delighted with today's news that there is now a public API


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March15,2013 Global status report on road safety
AT&T Don't Text While Driving Documentary ( Video Inside)
YASA and LASIP advice to avoid the increase of injuries resulting from road collisions on New Year's Eve
Make sure that the mattress is comfortable, suitable and properly fit in the child bed.
(CNN) -- Justin Bieber was charged with drunken driving, resisting arrest and driving without a valid license after police saw the pop star street racing early Thursday morning, Miami Beach police said.
"What the f*** did I do? Why did you stop me?" Bieber asked the police officer who pulled him over just after 4 a.m., according to the arrest report.
Bieber, 19, was released from a Miami jail an hour after he made a brief appearance through a video link before a Miami judge, who set a "standard" $2,500 bond Thursday afternoon.
He strutted out of the jail dressed in black, with a baggy hoodie covering his head. His pants appeared to be baggy leather. Bieber briefly sat on top of a black Cadillac Escalade, where he waved to screaming fans, before he was chauffeured away.
At the bail hearing, the singer, dressed in an orange jail uniform, stood silently with his lips sometimes pursed as attorney Roy Black represented him in the hearing earlier.
Black told Judge Joseph Farina that he had been retained by Bieber's manager. He said his partner had been denied access to Bieber in jail before the hearing.
Bieber was booked into a Miami jail after failing a sobriety test, Miami Beach Police Chief Raymond Martinez told reporters Thursday.
Bieber "made some statements that he had consumed some alcohol, and that he had been smoking marijuana and consumed some prescription medication," Martinez said.
A Miami Beach officer saw Bieber driving a yellow Lamborghini in a race against a red Ferrari in a residential area of Miami Beach, Martinez said. The cars were speeding at about 55 to 60 mph in a 30 mph zone, he said.
Police report details Bieber arrest
The officer pulled Bieber's car over, but the singer was "was not cooperating with the officer's instructions," Martinez said.
"At first, he was a little belligerent, using some choice words questioning why he was being stopped and why the officer was even questioning him," he said.
He allegedly ignored a police officer's request to keep his hands on the car while he did "a cursory patdown for weapons," the report said.
"I ain't got no f***ing weapons," the arresting officer quoted Bieber as saying. "Why do you have to search me? What the f*** is this about?"
The arrest report describes Bieber as having a "flushed face, bloodshot eyes, and the odor of alcohol on his breath."
Bieber failed a field sobriety test, Miami Beach Police Sgt. Bobby Hernandez told CNN.
Two black SUVs blocked the traffic at 26th and Pine Tree Drive, which "facilitated an open road" for the two cars to race on Pine Tree, the report said.
The Ferrari's driver, identified as 19-year-old Def Jam recording artist Khalil Sharieff, was also arrested on a drunken driving charge, police said.
Sharieff posted a photo on his Instagram account of Bieber in the yellow Lamborghini with a woman behind the wheel early Thursday. "U know bizzle brought that lambo out," he wrote in the caption.
Another posting showed a photo of a Ferrari steering wheel with the caption: "Miami nights ridin thru yo city in that hot wheel."
A tweet posted Wednesday evening on Sharieff's verfied Twitter account linked to a video of him playing basketball with Bieber.
Bieber flew to Miami on Monday.
Another police department in the Miami area is investigating a report that some of its officers escorted Bieber's caravan between Miami strip clubs this week without authorization.
Opa-Locka Assistant City Manager David Chiverton told CNN affiliate WSVN-TV that "at some point, the escort took them at least to two locations that we know of."
"The police administration had no knowledge of this escort, and it is not the norm for those things to occur without the chief and his administration authorizing such escorts," Chiverton told the TV station.
Thursday's incident marks the first time the teen singer has been arrested, although he is under investigation on allegations of egging his California neighbor's home.
Los Angeles County sheriff's deputies used a felony search warrant last week to raid Bieber's mansion in the felony vandalism investigation. They seized Bieber's iPhone and the security camera system, which detectives have been examining for clues about who tossed eggs over a fence that splattered onto the next-door house, causing an estimated $20,000 in damage.
Bieber is having some issues
Deputies have also investigated reports by Bieber's neighbors that he raced his expensive sports car down the streets of the exclusive Oaks community of Calabasas, California, but no charges ever resulted.
One neighbor accused Bieber of spitting in his face during a heated confrontation last March. Deputies have responded to complaints about loud parties at Bieber's place.
The Los Angeles County district attorney's office concluded it couldn't prove the spitting or speeding cases in court, so it declined to prosecute.
Prosecutors also rejected a misdemeanor battery complaint from a photographer who accused Bieber of attacking him in the parking lot of a Calabasas shopping center as he was taking photos of Bieber and his then-girlfriend, Selena Gomez, in May 2012.
"We didn't do this search warrant to send a message," Sheriff's Lt. David Thompson said last week. "That's not what we do, but we hope maybe that understanding the gravity of this will change some of the behavior."


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If a potential candidate for the office of deacon believes in paedo-communion, does that automatically disqualify him for the position?
I want to be cautious here as your question is a sensitive one and may reflect on a situation in your local church. It should also be stated that the answer I give is my own, based on what I believe the OPC has expressed and historically practiced. It is not an "official" answer, but simply that of an OPC pastor—me.
My sense is that if a candidate holds to paedo-communion, it would likely disqualify him from serving as an officer. At a minimum it would be a notable exception to the system of doctrine expressed in the Westminster Standards. This is based on the Larger Catechism question #177, and the way in which 1 Corinthians 11 and the WLC 177 was addressed by the General Assembly committee appointed to study paedo-communion in 1987. A number of other documents can be located through OPC.org that express the OPC's position on paedo-communion, from articles in New Horizons (see for example "The Lord's Supper and Covenant Children"), as well as other questions to OPC.org. If you type in "paedo-communion" a number of items come up.
In short, the OPC has not wavered on the issue of paedo-communion. If a session were to approve a man who held to it, that would have to be noted by the session, the minutes of which would be read by the presbytery. It is hard for me to imagine a presbytery not challenging that decision.
I would add two wrinkles: The first is to wonder in my mind how strongly the person holds to the view and why? Some hold it out of conscience; others out of preference; still others hold it in connection with views such as Federal Vision, which the OPC has identified as an errant movement. A session would likely want to understand why and to what extent a man holds the view. Is he teachable? Is it possible to change or tone down the man's view pastorally for the sake of the man and the church? I would be careful not to disqualify a man without trying to work with him, study and pray with him, and then see where things stood. Depending on where that led, the session could even determine to ask the presbytery for advice. The presbytery may then be in a position to evaluate the details and help the session determine how best to counsel the man and whether or not to go forward. So again, I would be careful to get all the details and do the slow pastoral work. Your question did not necessarily ask all that, thus my attempt to give you a short, straight answer in the beginning. In the end, however, even questions like this prove to have layers that take a while to peel if you want to be thorough.
"Questions and Answers" is a weekly feature of the OPC website. The answers come from individual ministers in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church expressing their own convictions and do not necessarily represent an "official" position of the Church, especially in areas where the Standards of the Church (the Scriptures and the Westminster Confession of Faith and Catechisms) are silent.
The questions come from individuals like yourself. If you have questions about biblical and theological matters, you are invited to send them by e-mail by using the "Pose a Question" link on the OPC home page or by clicking here.
At least one new question is posted each week, so there should always be something new here for you to read. (For those people who would like to look at previous questions and answers, they will continue to be available as well.)
The purpose of the OPC website's "Questions and Answers" is to respond to biblical and theological questions. Matters of church discipline, disputes, or debates go beyond the scope of our work. We recommend that you present your concerns in these areas to the appropriate judicatory. In most cases this will be to a local pastor, elder, or session. We do not want the website to replace personal involvement in, or commitment to, the local, visible church.
While we will respond to every serious questioner, we are not bound to give a substantive answer to every question, should we deem the question to be beyond the scope of our purpose or our own ability to answer.
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Chaplains and Military Personnel


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Matt Butler, VFX Supervisor, said the footage from the set didn't quite look as if the actors were in zero gravity. "In general, what we did is we replaced everything and only kept the face with the exception of a few shots," he said.
Butler, nominated for an Academy Award for his work on Transformers: Dark of the Moon and a 17-year veteran of Digital Domain, faced a real problem with zero gravity. "We don't have zero gravity here," he said, so we're handicapped in having actors look like they are in zero gravity.
Digital Domain replaced all but the faces for a number of scenes to help enhance the movement of the characters. CG made the movements more organic to what it would be like to be in zero gravity, he said. "It's very easy to now make animation that is true to zero gravity."
Wire work is restrictive, said Butler, and there were many problems with the harnesses. It's harder to make changes in photography because it has already being shot but computer rendering can go back and make whatever changes you want.
So why bother having the actors go through the harnesses and pretend to be in zero gravity? "You want actors to perform in an environment that is as close as possible to what they're trying to act," he said. It helps them to know where to look and how to move, and that performance is enhanced by CG.
The impact of CG was a big key in getting the movie made in the first place, according to Ben Proctor, Production Designer. The entire teaser trailer was made with CG. "Early on, we did these for a teaser which was an attempt to raise funds for the movie," he said.
Proctor is a veteran of over 10 years working on such films as Avatar and Tron: Legacy. The 45 second teaser was showed at the Cannes Film Festival and was a big success. "We raised $40 million presale based on the strength of the teaser and so we really tried to invest it with a lot of the look and feel that we wanted for it," he said.
The layouts in the teaser and the original designs ended up in the actual sets, said Proctor. "It substantially feels like the movie that we made."
Once Gavin Hood came on board as the director, Proctor said things began to fall into place. Some of the changes occurred with the main sphere. "Gavin's vision was we can make this a lot more interesting." "Let's see Earth, let's have that sense of kids training in space for space battle," he said.
The designs were changed to find a balance between fantasy and reality. "Trying to come up with something that is clearly a fantasy design but that has the hallmark of reality to give some credibility to the whole thing," said Proctor. Dishes at the end of the sphere looked great on the outside but blocked a lot of the views when inside the sphere. "Somehow we split the difference between NASA designs as we know it and a little bit of elegance of 2001: A Space Odyssey (1969) and some of the great space design movies," he said.
The importance of CG begins in pre-production. Scott Meadows, Pre-Viz Supervisor, said the pre-viz gave Hood time to make key decisions on various shots. Storyboarding and pre-viz were an important part of the planning for the film. "We were pressed for time so we did use storyboards to help finish the designs," he said. Pre-viz can be a big plus in justifying the cost of the movie. "At the end of the day, it really reflected in the film," he said.
Inside the massive CG room at Digital Domain, there are 122 cameras and many lights. The room is built to be big and functional so "we can do pretty much anything," said Gary Roberts, Virtual Production Supervisor.
"We do a lot of pre-viz just to plan out things," he said. A demonstration was made for the press as Hood showed reporters how to film a sequence involving a little mouse and a giant as seen in the movie.
The director shoots a variety of shots until he gets what he's looking for, said Roberts. "We can augment the performances digitally here. There are many ways to do that, including scaling up a performer to be a 26-foot giant." Roberts added that once the basic animation is done, he and his crew can make subtle changes into the final film.
The movie looks and sounds great on Blu-ray as one would expect from this type of film. The special features include two audio commentaries, one with director Gavin Hood and another with producers Gigi Pritzker and Roberto Orci. Between the two commentaries, the viewer learns how the book was adapted for the screen and what changes were made as well as plenty of information on the production of the movie.
Eight featurettes make up Ender's Game: The Making of Ender's Game (49 minutes) covering adapting the book, casting, special effects and production of the film. Deleted and Extended Scenes (almost 11 minutes) include optional commentary by Hood. Finally, there is Inside the Mind Games (almost four minutes) about motion capture and two theatrical trailers (4 minutes).
- Mario Boucher
(select photos by Mario Boucher)


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I saw the word, 'Oxbridge', a portmanteau of Oxford and Cambridge, in a comment to a question asking for a better word for 'invigilator':
Whereas the situation is reversed in the UK, and one in a thousand would recognize proctor -- although even the one in a thousand would be the one who went to Oxbridge and would give it a different meaning altogether.
We have the abbreviation "東大一ツ橋" (Todaihitotsubashi) combining the names of Tokyo University and Hitotsubashi University, both national universities, as a symbolic phrase of elitist schools, though I don't know why Hitotsubashi University singly skewed to economics was paired to Tokyo University out of 783 universities and colleges (in 2012) in Japan.
In the sports area, we have the word "早慶" (Sohkei), an abbreviated combination of Waseda University and Keio University, both private universities excelling in baseball, rugby, soccer and many other sports, as well as in academic achievement.
Is there an American counterpart of "Oxbridge", "Sohkei" and "Todaihitotsubashi," or does "Yale-Harvard" suffice?