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After sleeping surprisingly well I had my ritual pre-marathon breakfast of porridge, and we left Caragh Lake almost exactly on time. This was the first time I have been able to drive to a marathon start directly from home, and I appreciated the luxury. We arrived in Dingle about 40 minutes before the start, parked the car and went to the start area. I kissed Niamh and the kids good bye and entered the starting pen with about 5 minutes to spare. Perfect.
Normally, people cheat on this. They start at the 3-hour mark if they are 4-hour runners, and so on. However, I stood there at the 3-hour sign almost completely on my own. Almost everyone seemed to gather behind the 3:30 marker, and I was there with maybe 5 superfast looking guys. While I'm not entirely useless at running, the front line is not my area, and I felt rather self-conscious. But since I was in the right place according to the pace marker, I didn't move either. It had the advantage that I managed to talk to John O'Regan. We had exchanged messages hoping to bump into each other, and had a few minutes of chat before the start. John had originally planned to run the marathon, but downgraded to the half, and accordingly took off like a rocket from the word go. I wasn't even remotely tempted to stay with him.
I was determined not to start at a suicidal pace, but plenty of others did. A whole mass of people was streaming past me over the first half mile, possibly up to 50 runners. Obviously the better half-marathoners would be able to run a faster pace, but I guessed that a number of marathoners were asking for trouble here. It was difficult not to get sucked into it, and when I checked the Garmin at one stage I was doing 6:20. I slowed down immediately and all-in-all I didn't do too badly, with a first mile of 6:51, almost exactly 3 hours pace. It was a tad faster than I had intended to start, but not a complete disaster either. I also started overtaking runners at that point. Just what were some people thinking at the start?
It depends on your viewpoint, but most people in Kerry would have described today's weather as stunning. The sun was shining and there was not one cloud in the sky. Of course, if you are running a marathon, your view on what constitutes perfect weather is a bit different, and to be running on one of the hottest days of the year wasn't going to be easy. We were in for an interesting day.
The first few miles went very, very well. I was running along at a very easy effort, I felt like jogging along and was completely relaxed and happy. The heart rate was always around 167, at the upper end of what I can hold for a marathon, but not off the scale. Shortly before the 3-mile mark I caught up with a ponytail that looked very familiar. It was Johnny Donnelly, the former(?) drummer of the Irish pop band Saw Doctors, who is on a mission to run 60 marathons in 4 years for charity. He was gracious enough to chat with me for a bit, even though I'm sure he's getting fed up at times with total strangers trying to talk to him when he's running a marathon. Anyway, I was soon away again, overtaking at least a dozen more runners over the next few miles.
I started following the race line, trying to run all corners at the inside of the road rather than running in the middle of the road as I normally do. The road was quite cambered, and I wasn't entirely sure if this was a very good idea, but I sure ran a shorter course than some people out there. It also helped me to stay mentally alert all the time.
The course was very undulating, one little hill immediately gave way to the next one, and you never had the opportunity to settle into a constant rhythm. Shortly after the 7-mile mark I started talking to a runner who recognised me from the Ballydavid race 2 months prior. We talked for a while, about the race and the weather and a guy we both knew (Ireland, and Kerry especially, is small enough for that to happen a lot), and half a mile later he told me to move ahead. A look at the Garmin told me that indeed I had slowed down quite a bit over that stretch. On the plus side, my heart rate had dropped, and over the next few miles it was always at 165 when I checked, even though I was still doing roughly the same pace.
The sunny weather brought home just why we were running here: the scenery was absolutely stunning, and I was able to enjoy it. At one stage I actually told the runners around me "lads, look at the view!!!". We could see the Blasket Islands ahead of us, the Iveragh peninsula to our left, with even the Skelligs in clear view. This was breathtaking!
The race continued to go well, I was at about 7:05 pace or thereabouts, which would give me a 3:05 finish time should I hold it until the end, very close to my existing marathon personal best, but let's not get carried away. I still felt great. Around the 10-mile point the quads started showing the first signs of fatigue, but that's what's to be expected. I was still feeling very good.
After a few more climbs we passed through the village of Dunquin where the half marathon would end. The road suddenly became a lot quieter. I could only see 2 runners ahead of me, 3 maybe on some stretches, but we were all very far apart. I had no idea what position I had in the field, but obviously it was pretty far towards the front. I reckoned I was doing very well.
I had taken my first gel at the 9-mile point and was wondering when I should take a second one. When I got closer to the 15-mile water station I decided not to take one now because I really did not feel like swallowing it, and following my gut instincts (literally) is usually a good idea. However, one volunteer had a bottle of energy drink in his hand, which looked rather appealing. Up to here we had only been offered water. But after one sip I realised in horror that the stuff was carbonised! It so nearly came back up again, and it sprayed out of the bottle all over my hand. Lovely. I still drank the contents though. It was hot and I was thirsty, and I managed to hold it in. Two miles later, as I was approaching the village of Ballyferriter, I saw that my spit was bright orange from that drink. What on earth was that stuff? I decided to keep to water for the rest of the race.
One other thing had happened at mile 15, the runner in front of me entered a portaloo, and I gained one place in the field. Hurray! I gained a second one just after passing through Ballyferriter, when the runner in front of me started walking. Later on, as we were nearing mile 20, the runner from mile 15 re-took his place. He passed me going at some ferocious pace that I could not possible match. On the other hand, I re-gained a place shortly later; I think someone had hit the wall and slowed down markedly. So, I was still two places to the good from the halfway point.
Looking at the chart now I can see that I started losing it around the 19-mile mark. Up to then the pace had pretty much followed the frequent ups and downs of the course, but from here on I started slowing slightly. Having said that, it was not apparent to me at the time. I kept marvelling how well I was feeling, and I was pretty sure I had never felt so fresh at the 20-mile point in a marathon. The contrast to my last marathon, Boston, was particularly striking. Back then I had been in agony since mile 15 and was hanging on for dear life, today I still had plenty in the tank and even though the legs were tired, it was nothing I could not handle.
However, whenever I looked up I could see the mountain looming ahead. It reminded me very much of Connemara's "Hell off the West", and I was in no illusion about the task ahead. This was going to be tough, and just before the 21-mile water station I took my second gel, want it or not. I reckoned I needed a bit of energy.
Up to now we had been following the spectacular Slea Head Drive, but at mile 21 we took a right turn into a very small country road. It even had a grass strip in the middle. That wasn't a problem. The fact that it led straight up the mountain was, though. And by straight I mean straight. No bends, no hairpin corner (switchbacks in America), just straight up. As a result, it was steep. The elevation chart on the web site was wrong. This one had a gradient of over 13 percent at one point, just after passing the 22-mile sign. When we reached the Dingle road it became a bit more reasonable, but there was still almost a mile of climbing left. It was at that point that I overtook the runner from mile 15 again, this time for good because he was walking up the hill, and he didn't look like he was going to run anytime soon. "This is fun, eh" I quipped as I passed. "Pure Magic" he responded in the same spirit.
Fun aside, I was getting into trouble. Both legs started cramping, but it wasn't too bad. Just one spasm every now and then, and with the top of the hill approaching rapidly, I felt I would be able to make it. I did. Just after the 23-mile marker, the worst was over. Or so I thought.
Before the race I had said that ideally I would have a pair of working quads left for the final 3 downhill miles. I was thrilled to find them in perfect working order and proceeded to speed up. I fully intended to make up time lost on the climb, and the pace dropped to 6:45 once more. After going through one sweeping bend the road was complete straight for over 2 miles. We could almost see the end ahead of us! But it was also a bit steeper than was good for me, as I found out when my calves started cramping again, and this time it hurt. And by that I mean it hurt.
That's roughly what I sounded like when my entire right leg went into spasm. Still, it went away and I continued on, but I knew this wasn't the end of it. The next one came exactly at the 24-mile marker, and this time I was in full view of a group of spectators. "Aaaahhh!!!". I had to walk a few steps to get the legs back under control, and I let the worried looking people know that I was ok. I was more embarrassed than hurt. But if I thought that was bad, I had no idea what was in store. People of a nervous disposition might want to skip the next paragraph.
If you look at the pace graph you see two spikes at the downhill part. The first is the walking incident I just mentioned. The other one happened half a mile later. I had not learned my lesson and continued to press the pace, though I wasn't able to go particularly fast any more. But I pressed as hard as I could. And then, without warning, both of my calves went into the most violent cramp I have ever experienced, and both of them at exactly the same moment. That pain was absolutely excruciating, but what was worse was the fact that my legs simply buckled beneath me and I fell backwards to the ground. I managed to catch myself with my hands, ripping a piece of skin off my right hand in the process, but I didn't even notice that at the time. I was writhing in the middle of the road, screaming in agony at the top of my voice. I don't know how long I was like this, but it was definitely for several seconds. Then, by some miracle, I managed to put one leg underneath my body, and when I put some pressure on it the cramp in it subsided. I then managed to repeat the process with the other one, and managed to get back upright. I could see the runner ahead of me, maybe a quarter mile further on, looking behind. He must have heard me screaming. I waved to signal that I was okay, and both of us proceeded towards the end.
Lying on the road I had definitely thought that my race would end there and then, but now, back on my feet, I was pretty sure that I would be able to run the last 1.5 miles towards the end as long as I took it easier. It also helped that the road gradually levelled out, and the flatter it became the more comfortable running was. I jogged towards the finish line at about 8:00 pace, and did not have to deal with any more spasms.
When turning the last corner I could see the finish line straight ahead. The MC welcomed me by number and name – I was quite surprised that he was able to pronounce it, most people don't even try. I milked the occasion for all I could. Cruising into the finish, smiling, waving towards the spectators and doing the aeroplane as I crossed the line (what a t*sser). I heard Niamh shout my name and walked over to give her a kiss, all to the running commentary of the MC. It was only then that I realised that it was our next-door neighbour! That would explain why he knew me, and he proceeded to give the audience my full biography, and almost coaxed me into an interview there and then, which didn't really happen because I was too exhausted to speak. But he did tell me (and everyone else) that I had come 12th, which sounded very impressive. Even the kids were impressed, and that doesn't happen very often. The time was rather modest at 3:12:44. There's no telling how much that hill had cost me, but 5 minutes would be at my lower estimate.
As I've said, when running a marathon, a lot of things can potentially go wrong. I was well prepared, I think I ran a fairly smart race (I gained 3 places in the second half, even with all my troubles), and my nutrition was spot on. I still had plenty of energy left, and I didn't even feel very tired. But the calve muscles completely gave out on me today, which caught me entirely by surprise. I thought that as long as my quads would hold up I would be okay, but that was not the case, obviously. I'm not sure what I could have done differently, but I won't spend time thinking about it right now. I'm too sore for that.
- 12 Sep
- Inaugural Dingle Marathon: 3:12:44, 7:21 pace, HR 165
12th place (out of 314)


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Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan to inaugurate new Indian school in Sharjah….reports Asian Lite News
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate a new Indian school in Sharjah on December 22, local media reported. Vijayan will be making his first visit to the United Arab Emirates after becoming the Chief Minister. The New Sharjah Indian School is located in the Juwaiz area of Sharjah.
A public programme will be held after a formal inaugural function of the New Sharjah Indian School, Khaleej Times reported.
While the existing Sharjah Indian School will retain all the girl students, the New Sharjah Indian School will accommodate the existing boy students from the old school and take more boy students in the new premises.
The two schools will work separately as a boys' and girls' schools, according to officials of Indian Association Sharjah, which manages the largest Indian community school in Sharjah.
The new school project has been going on for one-and-a-half years. Initially the new school will be able to accommodate around 6,000 students in Sharjah. About 12,000 students would be accommodated when the two phases of the new school project are completed.

subset: commoncrawl


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Why Do People Commit Suicide?
- 8 Months ago
- 428
- 4.0
Suicide refers to the act of taking one's own life on purpose. No matter the age of the person or race, how rich of poor they are, it is factual that most people who commit suicide have an emotional or mental disorder. Worldwide, suicide is among the three leading causes of death among people aged 15 to 44. About 30% to 70% of suicide victims suffer from major depression or manic-depressive disorder.
Suicidal behaviour occurs in people with one or more of the following:
• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar disorder
• Drug and alcohol dependence
• Borderline personality disorder
• Depression
• Stressful life events, such as relationship problems or financial issues
It's known that people who commit suicide are trying to run away from a situation that seems impossible to deal with. Many individuals who make a suicide attempt are seeking relief from:
• Feeling guilty or ashamed
• Feeling like a burden on others
• Feelings of loss and rejection
• Feeling like a victim
A person may attempt suicide when there are situations or events that he or she finds overwhelming, such as:
• Emotional trauma
• Unemployment
• Financial problems
• Alcohol or drug dependence
• Death of a loved one
• Suffering from a serious physical illness
• Aging
Most suicide attempts are done in a way that makes rescue possible and these attempts are often a cry for help. If you or a loved one has problems that seem impossible to deal with or has recurrent thoughts of suicide, talk to a mental health professional or a counsellor right away!


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Early Years Maths: Sorting Objects into Baskets
About This Primary Resource
This lesson plan has been kindly shared with us by NRICH, a mathematics project set up by Cambridge University which provide support for those either teaching or learning maths. NRich is run by a group of qualified teachers who work in partnership with teachers and schools to help develop mathematical thinking and problem solving skills. To find out more about NRICH , or to download more high quality lesson plans, go to their website: www.nrich.maths.org/frontpage.


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Ottery bowlers in fine form as they defeat visiting St Thomas
PUBLISHED: 09:21 13 September 2018
Barnwood, from the Gloucester area, was the first of two touring sides to visit Ottery in the past week, writes Michael Smith.
In what was a very entertaining match (each side won two rinks with one rink drawn), the visitors took the match with an overall score of 84 shots to 78.
The winning Ottery rinks were Jill White, Fred Dart, Andrew Evans and skip Richard Bland and Eric Richardson, Carol Bennett, Maureen Phillips and skip Frank Jones, who both won by seven shots.
Next to visit were Devon Presidents, who arrived with five rinks and claimed success on four of them to the one won by Ottery. The visitors won overall by 102 shots to 89, and the winning Ottery rink was that of Clive Russell, Maureen Phillips, Andrew Evans and skip Peter Jones, 32-12.
In a friendly at home to St Thomas, Ottery enjoyed a 63-55 success and by three rinks to one; the best rink was Melvyn Trayhurn, Jean Railton and skip Ray Luscombe, 21-6.
There was more success for Ottery in a meeting with Starcross that was won by four rinks to one and overall by 82 shots to 73. This time the best rink was Moyra Griffin, Gerard McCarthy and skip Gail Hawke, 24-14.
The week ended with the touring team from the Isle of Wight visiting Ottery with an all men's side who took the match 120-102 and by five rinks to one.
The winning Ottery rink was that of Graham White, Clive Russell, Andrew Evans and skip Ray Luscombe, 23-12.
This weekend sees the summer season drawing to a close with the Final Drive on Sunday (September 16). Reports on this and the last few fixtures of the season will be in next week's Ottery Herald.
If you value what this story gives you, please consider supporting the Sidmouth Herald. Click the link in the orange box above for details.


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USC Dornsife professor honored by chemistry journal
Richard Brutchey, assistant professor of chemistry at the USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, was lauded for his work as a researcher by ChemComm, a leading chemical sciences journal published by the Royal Society of Chemistry.
The journal named Brutchey an emerging Investigator, a distinction that recognizes top chemical sciences researchers in the early stages of their careers. He is among 64 international researchers selected for the honor in the journal's Feb. 1 issue.
In addition to the honor, the research paper written by Brutchey and USC Dornsife researcher Federico Rabuffetti also was published.
The paper outlines a sustainable method for the synthesis of a type of complex material called perovskite nanocrystals. The process maximizes the dielectric constant of the material, which allows an energy storage unit, such as a capacitor, to store a greater amount of energy per unit volume.
Brutchey said that the accolade was meaningful because it also highlights the research conducted by the students in his laboratory.
"It's an honor for me and for my students," he said. "It's really recognizing their hard work."
Brutchey's research at USC Dornsife focuses on the synthesis, surface chemistry and applications of inorganic nanocrystals for solar energy conversion and energy storage. His team of researchers develops materials, such as perovskite and semiconductor nanocrystals, with the potential to make high-energy density capacitors and solar cells for applications, such as powering electric vehicles.
"Our research focuses on functional materials that are useful for alternative energy technologies, but we also are placing a high value on developing ways to make these materials in environmentally friendly and sustainable ways," Brutchey explained. "We hope that our work will impact future alternative energy technologies, such as the next generation of high-energy density capacitors."
Brutchey also recently received a Raubenheimer Junior Faculty Award — the highest accolade given to faculty at USC Dornsife — which recognizes outstanding achievements in scholarship, teaching and service.
USC vice dean for faculty Dani Byrd presented Brutchey with the award. She noted that since arriving at USC in 2007, Brutchey has received four grants and published more than a dozen peer-reviewed manuscripts in high-impact journals..
"Since joining USC Dornsife, Richard has built a top lab, bringing together an active research group exploring inorganic nanoscience and technology," Byrd said.
Brutchey uses media tools, such as Twitter, to disseminate his group's research and share news with his peers.
He said that he likes to get students excited about the new frontiers of chemistry.
"What I enjoy most is having undergraduate and graduate students come into the lab and start working on problems that they've come up with, and then come up with their own solutions," he said.
"Seeing them go through that process, and seeing them develop as scientists, is the most rewarding thing as a faculty member."
More stories about: Awards


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Season 6, Episode 608 : Aired on Nov. 10, 2012 Episode Preview
The editors of Woodsmith show you how to combine dovetail joinery, inset brass hardware, and a time-tested design to build a classic campaign chest.
Episode 608 Plans:
Campaign Chest
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Want to advertise your business with us?
Have comments about our show? We'd love to hear your thoughts!


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Our High-Quality Hyundai Car Service Center Has Plenty to Offer Drivers in the Greater Atlanta Area
If cars could talk, life would be so much easier; you would be able to diagnosis problems and address them properly. Unfortunately, this is not the case but that doesn't mean all is lost. As part of our commitment to spectacular auto service, we at Jim Ellis Hyundai Atlanta have created an application for you to use to better track your car's service needs. Available on either iPhone or Android, the Jim Ellis app has plenty alluring features.
Here is what you have to look forward to at the Jim Ellis Hyundai Service Center:
- Roadside Assistance calling
- A system to track service history and vehicle health to determine when maintenance needs to be done
- A safe place to store crucial car information: VIN, license plate number, insurance policy details and navigation codes
- Hyundai service coupons and specials
- Available service advisors ready to answer any and all your questions
- Owner's manuals
- Service appointment scheduler
But the best part of it all? The fact that this application is 100 percent free for you to use.
Quality service is defined by innovation and dedication. It's not only about getting your vehicle running good as new but providing you with the modern technology to better keep track of it all; it's not only about working with knowledgeable Hyundai service center technicians but giving those technicians the proper tools to get things done, courtesy of our car parts center in Atlanta and its genuine Hyundai auto parts. At Jim Ellis Hyundai Atlanta, we go above and beyond what is expected for one reason and one reason only: We honestly care about you and the well-being of your car.
The next time you need your car's oil changed or brakes repaired, consider scheduling an appointment with our Atlanta auto service center. We are proud to serve the greater Duluth, GA, Marietta, Alpharetta and Roswell region with this pledge to great car service. Visit us at 5785 Peachtree Industrial Blvd in Atlanta, GA, or give us a call at (888) 696-2033. We look forward to working with you today.


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Request for a preliminary ruling from the Bundesgerichtshof (Germany) lodged on 26 February 2020 — StWL Städtische Werke Lauf a.d. Pegnitz GmbH v eprimo GmbH
(Case C-102/20)
Language of the case: German
Referring court
Parties to the main proceedings
Applicant: StWL Städtische Werke Lauf a.d. Pegnitz GmbH
Defendant: eprimo GmbH
Other party to the proceedings: Interactive Media CCSP GmbH
Questions referred
Does the concept of 'sending' within the meaning of Article 2(h) of Directive 2002/58/EC 1 cover a situation in which a message is not transmitted by a user of an electronic communications service, via a service provider, to the electronic 'address' of a second user, but, as a consequence of the opening of the password-protected web page of an email account, is automatically displayed by ad servers in certain areas designated for that purpose in the email inbox of a randomly selected user (inbox advertising)?
Does the collection of a message within the meaning of Article 2(h) of Directive 2002/58/EC presuppose that, after becoming aware of the existence of a message, the recipient triggers the programmatically prescribed transmission of the message data by making an intentional collection request, or is it sufficient for the appearance of a message in an email account inbox to be triggered by the user opening the password-protected web page of his e-mail account?
Does a message constitute electronic mail within the meaning of Article 13(1) of Directive 2002/58/EC even where it is not sent to an individual recipient already specifically identified prior to transmission but is displayed in the inbox of a randomly selected user?
Is electronic mail used for the purposes of direct marketing within the meaning of Article 13(1) of Directive 2002/58/EC only where the user is found to be the subject of a burden that is greater than a nuisance?
Does individual advertising meet the conditions governing the presence of 'solicitation', for the purposes of the first sentence of point 26 of Annex I to Directive 2005/29/EC, 2 only where a customer is contacted via a medium traditionally used for individual communication between a sender and a recipient, or is it sufficient if — as with the advertisement at issue in the case in point — an individual connection is established by the fact that the advertisement is displayed in the inbox of a private email account, and thus in an area in which the customer expects to find messages addressed to him personally?


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Issues related to Health & Education
- WHO releases new guidelines to manage obesity in children
- Slowing economy pushes India to 8th spot in valuable nation brand list
Environment, Ecology & Disaster Management
- India Water Week-2017
Bilateral & International Relations
- India invited to join SCO contact group meeting on Afghanistan
Defence & Security Issues
- Union Home Minister inaugurates NIA Hqrs new Office Complex
Science & Technology
- Road Min to promote new technologies in highway projects
For IASToppers Current Affairs Analysis Archive, Click Here
Issues related to Health & Education
WHO releases new guidelines to manage obesity in children
With increasing evidence that childhood obesity is a global epidemic affecting even the poorer nations, the World Health Organization (WHO) has released new guidelines on how trained professionals can better identify obesity.
Key Facts:
- India has the second highest number of obese children in the world after China, according to a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine in June this year.
- A study published in Paediatric Obesity says India will have over 17 million children with excess weight by 2025.
- In 2016, one half of all children overweight or obese lived in Asia and one quarter lived in Africa.
- Ironically, overweight and obesity is found in populations where under-nutrition remains common. The term 'double-burden of malnutrition' is sometimes used to describe this phenomenon.
- According to the WHO document, urbanisation, increased income, availability of fast foods, educational demands, television viewing and gaming have led to a rise in the consumption of foods high in fats, sugar and salt and low physical activity.
- While there have been major public health interventions to promote improved diet and patterns of physical activity in adults, the contribution of antenatal and young-child interventions to reducing the risk of obesity in later life have not been significantly reviewed.
WHO guidelines on obesity:
- The WHO guidelines titled "Assessing and managing children at primary healthcare facilities to prevent overweight and obesity in the context of the double burden of malnutrition" provides updates for the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI).
- The guidelines include counselling, dieting and assessment of eating habits along with the usual weight and height measurements.
- As per the guidelines, routinely providing supplementary foods to stunted and moderately wasted infants and children in primary health-care facilities is not recommended.
- Early prevention is the need of the hour to avoid an entire generation from falling prey to heart ailments, hypertension and diabetic complications.
Problems in Identification:
- Doctors say identification of obesity in children is the main issue as often parents think a chubby child is a healthy child.
- Parents feel the necessity to see a doctor only when their children develop complications.
Most obese children develop early puberty, joint pain and find it difficult to exercise. This in turn results in metabolic syndrome and they end up with Type 2 diabetes.
About WHO:
- The World Health Organization is a specialized agency of the United Nations that is concerned with international public health.
- It was established on 7 April 1948, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
- It is a member of the United Nations Development Group.
Slowing economy pushes India to 8th spot in valuable nation brand list
According to Brand Finance's recently released Nation Brands 2017 report, India is ranked the eighth most valuable nation brand while the United States retained its top position and China took the second spot in the league of nations.
About Valuable Nation Brand List:
- The Brand Finance Nation Brands measures the strength and value of the nation brands of 100 leading countries using a method based on the royalty relief mechanism that Brand Finance uses to value the world's largest companies.
- The report provides each country with a measure of its brand strength in addition to its nation brand value.
Highlights of the report:
- US continues to be at the top the list, followed by China, Germany, Japan and United Kingdom.
- China is the fastest growing nation brand in absolute terms.
- Asian nation brands boom as the West stagnates
- Southern European nations show double-digit growth
- Iceland topped the 'Top 10 best performing nation brands' list. The impetus was provided mainly by the hit TV show, Game of Thrones, which filmed most of its winter scenes in the country.
India's performance
- In terms of valuations, India's National Brand Value 2017 is USD 2.04 trillion, down one percent from last year's USD 2.06 trillion.
- This has pushed India down one spot to eighth on a list of most valuable nation brands compiled by Brand Finance. The country's brand rating, however, improved from 'AA-' to 'AA'.
Pillars of India's Brand Value:
- Brand analysts list democracy, diversity, young population and technological receptivity as the pillars of India's brand value.
- India is seen stronger in attributes related to culture and weaker in attributes related to business.
Status of Indian Brand Value:
- India needs rapid economic growth, accelerated employment, exponential increase in infrastructure and a do-or-die spirit of enterprise.
- India has to not only match, but exceed China's growth rate consistently for a decade or two, if it wants to climb the Index and reliably hold a higher position.
- With so much focus on China, the emergence of India as a top-tier investment destination has not received the notice that it warrants.
- In 2015, India surpassed both US and China to top list of greenfield foreign direct investment (FDI) by volume.
- In 2016, Indian companies were responsible for 272 overseas projects, placing India third as an Asian source country for FDI, behind Japan and China.
Environment, Ecology & Disaster Management
India Water Week-2017
The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, inaugurated India Water Week-2017 today (October 10, 2017) in New Delhi.
- The India Water Week 2017 is going to be held on the theme "Water and Energy for Inclusive Growth,".
- India Water Week-2017 is a platform to elicit ideas and opinions from global-level decision makers, politicians, researchers and entrepreneurs in the field of water resources development and management for mutual benefit and goodwill.
- The government has prepared a strategic plan for ensuring drinking water supply in all rural areas by 2022. By that year, the goal is to cover 90 per cent of rural households with piped water supply.
- The Government of India proposed to complete 99 prioritised Major & Medium Irrigation – AIBP Projects in 18 States along with their CAD works by December 2019 under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) Mission established in MoWR, RD & GR.
About India Water Week:
- In order to establish an international event focused on water resources of India, Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Government of India has been organising India Water Week since 2012 as an annual international event.
- It is a unique platform for deliberating all the related issues and better management of water resources.
- Four editions of India Water Week have been organised so far in 2012, 2013, 2015 and 2016.
- The first event was organised in New Delhi in 2012 and the theme was 'Water, Energy and Food Security: Call for Solutions'.
Need for conservation of water:
- Water is the harbinger of all life on the planet, especially the humankind. With the growing population and improvement in economic status, the demand for available water resources is also increasing.
- As a result, there is an urgency to conserve and utilize the limited availability of water resources in an optimum and efficient manner to satisfy larger needs.
Bilateral & International Relations
India invited to join SCO contact group meeting on Afghanistan
India has been invited to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) contact group meeting on Afghanistan for the first time to discuss the war-torn country's security situation as well as economic potential.
- The meeting is being is held on October 11 in Moscow and comes as a feather in the cap for India's Afghan strategy after successful US backed Indo-Afghan trade and investment show in Delhi.
- The development is viewed as acknowledgement of India's stake in the war-torn country.
- The SCO contact group that had become defunct in 2009 has been revived this year after Russian President Vladimir Putin's intervention.
- At the 2016 summit held in Uzbekistan, the SCO leaders signed memorandums on the accession of India and Pakistan to the organization. India became an SCO member in June this year.
India's engagement with Afghanistan:
- India is working with both US and Russia to contribute to stability of Afghanistan.
- SCO membership has put India into the heart of Eurasian geopolitics, enabling a larger say in Afghanistan, which has a direct bearing on security situation at home. However, India's deeper engagement with Afghanistan has been opposed by Pakistan and its army.
- Pakistan-backed Taliban and Haqqani network continue to target Indian interests and assets in the landlocked country as India strives to achieve "strategic depth".
About Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO):
Seen as a counter to the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), SCO is a Eurasian political, economic and military organisation which was founded in 2001 in Shanghai by the leaders of China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
- These countries, except for Uzbekistan, had been members of the Shanghai Five, founded in 1996; after the inclusion of Uzbekistan in 2001, the members renamed the organisation.
- Its headquarters is located in Beijing, China.
- India, which has had an observer status for the past 10 years, was accepted along with Pakistan as full members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in July 2015.
- It has now eight members: China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India and Pakistan.
- SCO has Afghanistan, Iran, Mongolia and Belarus as observers.
- The SCO has established relations with the United Nations, where it is an observer in the General Assembly, the European Union, Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Commonwealth of Independent States and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
Defence & Security Issues
Union Home Minister inaugurates NIA Hqrs new Office Complex
The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the new Headquarters Office Complex of the NIA at New Delhi.
- NIA will soon inaugurate its new regional office buildings in Guwahati in December, 2017 and Hyderabad in June, 2018.
Autonomy to NIA:
- The Government has initiated steps to grant full autonomy to the NIA in investigations.
- Earlier the NIA sought the Ministry of Home Affairs' (MHA) nod to proceed for action, but now there is no need for MHA's approval and NIA is free to act discretely.
- Even the next Director General of NIA, Y C Modi has been appointed almost two months in advance that would facilitate a smooth transition.
Recent activity:
- The NIA recently launched a crackdown on terrorism funding in the Kashmir Valley sponsored from a hostile neighbouring country and their accomplices abroad.
About NIA:
National Investigation Agency (NIA) is a central agency established by the Indian Government to act as the Central Counter Terrorism Law Enforcement Agency.
- The agency is empowered to deal with terror related crimes across states without special permission from the states.
- The Agency came into existence with the enactment of the National Investigation Agency Act 2008 by the Parliament of India in 2009.
- The agency is headed by a Director General and the officers for the agency are recruited from other agencies like the Indian Revenue Services, State Police departments, Income Tax department, Central Armed Police Forces.
- It also builds a database on all terror-related information and shares it with the states and other law enforcement agencies.
- The NIA has the power to investigate any terrorist attack in the country covering offences including bomb blasts, hijacking of planes and ships and attacks on nuclear installations, incidents related to smuggling of arms, circulation of fake currency and cross border infiltration.
- NIA's emphasis is on using latest scientific methods of investigation and a speedy trial resulting in quick justice.
Can a State Government request the NIA to take over the investigation of a case?
- A State Government may request the Central Government to hand over the investigation of a case to the NIA, provided there is reasonable ground to suggest the commission of a scheduled offence under the NIA Act in the said crime.
Science & Technology
Road Min to promote new technologies in highway projects
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, has decided to implement a 'Value Engineering Programme' to promote the use of new technologies, materials and equipment in highways projects executed either under PPP mode or public funding mode.
Aims of the 'Value Engineering Programme':
- The programme aims at using innovative technology, materials and equipment to reduce the cost of projects and make them more environment friendly.
- Programme is expected to increase the speed of construction, reduce construction cost, increase asset durability and improve aesthetics and safety.
About National Panel of Experts (NPE):
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways reconstituted a nine-member experts' panel (National Panel of Experts) for approving proposals for use of new technologies, material and equipment.
- The National Panel of Experts (NPE) will examine all technical matters involving the new technologies, materials and equipment referred to it by the concerned Engineers or concessionaires/ contractors.
- The NPE will also resolve the technical issues which arise as a result of difference in views between engineers and contractors regarding implementation, besides deciding about the need for of any new or innovative technology/ materials/ equipment before its adoption.


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Recently, I was having a lazy Saturday with my daughter. I was itching to get out of the house, but Ariana
Have you ever wondered how to get kids curious about spelling? If so, read on. Over the holiday break, I read a wonderful new book entitled Spelling It Out by Misty


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Diocese: Diocese of New York and New Jersey
Deanery: New York State Deanery
53 Baxter St
Binghamton, New York 13905
Website: dormitionofthevirginmary.org
Office: 607-797-1058
Parish Contacts
From the West
Take Rt 17 east to Binghamton. Take exit 71 (Airport Rd). At end of exit, turn right. Continue through light and stay on main road. This street becomes Downs Ave. At end of Downs Ave, take a right onto Glenwood Ave. Go 2 blocks and see Baxter St on the left. Continue down Baxter to the very end. Church is on the right.
From the East
Take Rt 17 west into Binghamton. Where Rt 17 and Rt 81 meet and then split, continue on Rt 17 west toward Elmira. Take first exit (Exit 72—Mygatt St). At end of exit make a left under the bridge. At the light, make a right onto Prospect St. Continue on Prospect St until your first left (about 1 mile). Take the left (Holland St) and then the first right (Baxter St). See the Church on the left.
From the North
Take Rt 81 south into Binghamton from Syracuse. Where Rt 17 and Rt 81 meet and then split, take Rt 17 west toward Elmira. Take first exit (Exit 72—Mygatt St). At end of exit make a left under the bridge. At the light, make a right onto Prospect St. Continue on Prospect St until your first left (about 1 mile). Take the left (Holland St) and then the first right (Baxter St). See the Church on the left.
From the South
Take Rt 81 north into Binghamton from Scranton. Where Rt 17 and Rt 81 meet and then split, take Rt 17 west toward Elmira. Take first exit (Exit 72—Mygatt St). At end of exit make a left under the bridge. At the light, make a right onto Prospect St. Continue on Prospect St until your first left (about 1 mile). Take the left (Holland St) and then the first right (Baxter St). See the Church on the left.
Schedule of Services
6:00 PM Great Vespers (7:00 PM from Memorial Day to Labor Day).
Saturday Evening
9:00 AM Hours, Divine Liturgy, Fellowship.
Sunday Morning
6:00 PM to 7:30 PM Church School Classes (from mid-September through mid-May).
Monday Evening
7:00 PM Great Vespers.
Eves of Great Feasts
9:00 AM Divine Liturgy.
Mornings of Great Feasts
6:00 PM Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts; Lenten Meal; Adult Education.
Wednesday Evenings in Great Lent
7:00 PM Akathist.
Friday Evenings in Great Lent
Confessions are available at Saturday Evening Vespers or by Appointment. Common Confession follows Vespers on the first Saturday of the month.
Please call the Rectory at 607-797-1058 for schedule of other services, or to arrange Baptisms, Marriages, Memorials, etc.
Parish Background
The Dormition Church was founded by Russian Orthodox people from Galicia, emigrees from a Carpathian Mountain region north of present-day Czechoslovakia; they will be celebrating its 100th Anniversary Columbus Day weekend 2015 (Please check parish website for updates).
Finding no Orthodox parish in Binghamton, and experiencing tensions within Byzantine Rite Uniate parishes that they visited, a handful of these emigrees met to form a new Orthodox parish.
Fr Borisoff, the rector of the neighboring Endicott parish, contacted Archbishop Evdokim Mischersky about the potential new parish, and he, in turn, assigned Fr Elias Barna. In addition, the parish council had obtained a Certificate of Incorporation signed both by George Bakhmeteff, Ambassador of Russia to the United States, and Michael Oustinoff, Consul General of Russia to the United States. The consent of these 2 Russian dignitaries was necessary because the Dormition Church would be governed ultimately by the Patriarchate of Moscow and would be supported as a mission parish by the Russian Government.
The first service was held on Pascha by Fr Elias in a home of a parish member on March 22, 1915.
Land for the new church and cemetary was purchased. Bishop Alexander Nemolovsky consecrated the land in September, 1915. The actual construction of the church began in November of that year. With the Church basement completed in January 1916, the church services were moved from parishioner homes to the basement. The church construction was completed in October 1916, and was consecrated in November 1916 by Bishop Peter Kiekanik and Bishop Stephen Dzubay. An estimated crowd of 750 were in attendance for this celebration.
It became evident that the new emigrees were finding it difficult in adjusting to life in America. Fr Elias took a keen interest in the social welfare of the parishioners. He urged the establishment of a mutual-aid society and a reading room. These provided aid to the emigrees and helped them become literate.
Over the years parish events multiplied. Parish plays, carolling at Christmas, and Russian School for the youngsters became parish traditions. A small hall was built from the wood of a torn-down building. Parish sponsored dinners were held in the new hall to raise money to support the parish.
In 1927, the Church decided to re-incorporate to prevent the property on Baxter St from being claimed by the Bolsheviks during the Revolution. During these chaotic times, however, much and varied work was done particularly by parish organizations. St Mary's sisterhood held dinners to contribute toward church and hall furnishings. St Ann's Guild not only funded Church improvements byt also aided immigrants in settlement on American soil; it later also provided scholarships to high school students. The local "R" Club functioned to bind Orthodox Christians together socially and support the newly formed church.
In the 1930, under the tenure of Very Rev Michael Perhach, an iconostas was erected and murals were painted on the ceiling of the Church. Stained glass windows were added under the pastorate of Rev Simeon Nemetz. Under the leadership of Very Rev Alexander Pogrebniak, a new hall was erected in 1949. Major structural expansion of the Church took place under Fr Peter Bohush.
During the next 50 years to the present time, energy was directed toward the upbuilding of the liturgical, educational, and ministerial life of the parish. During the tenure of Fr John Klembara, eucharistic renewal began. Fr Boris Vlasenko instituted the practice of Common Confession. Also during his tenure, Lee (Valerian) Dzury was ordained to the Diaconate and served the parish for 17 years in this capacity. With the blessing of Fr Boris, Deacon Valerian established a Bible Study. A hospital visitation group (Sunshine Group) also began to minister to the sick and home-bound during this time.
Under the pastorate of Fr Myron Manzuk, an increased number of parish members became frequent communicants. Saturday Evening Vespers attendance increased, as well. It was during this time that the parish began to celebrate Paschal Matins and Liturgy at midnight.
Regular Sunday communion has become the norm for the majority of the parish community. The Church School program was revamped and moved to Monday evenings. A stream of catechumens, as well as Orthodox Christians from Ethiopia, Russia, and Romania have come into the church making the parish a very diverse group.
Michael Soroka, the new choir director, has continued building the Pan-Orthodox Choir, and has concurrently expanded a reader's program in the parish. Periodically, congregational singing can be heard at Sunday Liturgy. Charitable and social programs have become fixed events in the parish.
Please come and worship with us when you are passing through.


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Wednesday to Sunday!
31 Jan – 4 Feb 2018
More news from Spielwarenmesse: The New Exhibitor Center will move to the newly built hall 3A for the coming Spielwarenmesse from 29.1-3.2.2014, which marks the official opening of the new hall.
Some 60 national and international exhibitors who have never exhibited at Spielwarenmesse before present their products in the New Exhibitor Center every year. Here traders find new business contacts and product ideas for all toy segments in the shortest possible time.
The fair organizer Spielwarenmesse eG takes care of stand organization and planning and the relevant marketing of the first-time exhibitors in the New Exhibitor Center. Besides the complete stand equipment, the companies can take advantage of many marketing measures for attractively highlighting their products.
More information about the New Exhibitor Center and all its exhibitors is available at www.toyfair.de/highlights/new-exhibitor-center.
Over 300 manufacturers from the total of around 2,700 exhibitors will exhibit for the first time at Spielwarenmesse 2014.
05.11.2013 – sd
Spielwarenmesse, the leading international fair for toys, hobbies and leisure, is organized by the fair and marketing services provider Spielwarenmesse eG. The trade fair creates a comprehensive communication and ordering platform for 2,700 national and international manufacturers. The presentation of new products and the extensive industry overview provide a valuable pool of information for annual market orientation for 72,500 buyers and toy traders from over 100 nations.
Fair date: Spielwarenmesse, Wednesday to Monday, 29.1–3.2.2014


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Home > Journals > Affiliated Journals > MISQ > Vol. 17 > Iss. 4 (1993)
Management Information Systems Quarterly
(Un)Structured Creativity in Information Systems Organizations
Daniel Couger, Lexis Higgins, and Scott McIntyre
Distributed Group Support Systems
Murray Turoff and Starr Hiltz
Tailoring Database Training for End Users
Judith Ahrens and Cheten Sankar
User-Database Interface: The Effect of Abstraction Levels on Query Performance
Hock Chan, Kwok Wei, and Keng Siau
Impact of Communication Medium and Computer Support on Group Perceptions and Performance: A Comparison of Face-to-Face and Dispersed Meetings
Laku Chidambaram and Beth Jones
The Effects of Information System User Expectations on Their Performance and Perceptions
Bernadette Szajna and Richard Scamell
Re-Examining Perceived Ease of Use and Usefulness: A Confirmatory Factor Analysis
Albert Sengars and Varun Grover


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For Tor Hagen (above), it was a dream come true – the first ship in the Viking Oceans Cruise Line, christened in his spiritual home of Bergen on Norwegian Constitution Day. A real hat-trick of celebrations. No wonder he has a smile as wide as the North Sea.
The christening ceremony took place on Sunday evening, performed by the mayor of Bergen in front of 20,000 local residents and invited guests. It is the first time in 10 years that a Norwegian-flagged cruise ship has been registered in Norway's second city.
"We believe the arrival of Viking Star signals a new era in destination-focused cruising, and I could not be more proud that she will call my favourite city in the world 'home,'" said Hagen, Chairman of Viking Cruises. "This is a ship that was built for exploration and designed with our Scandinavian heritage in mind, and our guests will experience it from the moment they step on board."
The ceremony was the culmination of a maiden voyage that began on 11 April when the ship left Istanbul. Over the last five weeks, she made stops in what will be regular ports of call in the Mediterranean and Western Europe, including Athens, Santorini, Kotor, Dubrovnik, Venice, Barcelona, Cadiz, Gibraltar, Lisbon, Paris, and London.
Yesterday in Bergen, Viking Star was positioned in the harbour to serve as the backdrop for a first-of-its kind floating concert. As thousands gathered along the waterfront, they were treated to performances by world-renowned artists and musicians – all of whom have a personal connection to Bergen – including Norwegian soprano Sissel, actor Bjarte Hjelmeland, singer-songwriter Sondre Lerche, acclaimed violinist Charlie Siem and comedy duo Ylvis. Following the concert, christening ceremony, and a fireworks display, Viking Star embarkd on a special journey to Oslo; from there she will continue to Copenhagen, Berlin, St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Helsinki and Stockholm.
Viking Star, which carries 930 passengers in 465 all-veranda cabins, has already been widely praised for its clean design – epitomised in the blonde wood "trees" stretching up to the ceiling of the Winter Garden, and the light, airy expanses of its forward-looking double-height Explorer's Lounge. Floor to ceiling windows in its restaurants open out onto the deck to allow al fresco dining, and the ship has the first true infinity pool at sea.
Get the next issue of World of Cruising for a review of Viking Star by editor John Honeywell, who sailed on the ship earlier this month.


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Regular price
Kokopelli (Hump Back Flute Player) Kachina by Jason Curley, Hopi Pueblocottonwood, pigment10" x 3.5" x 3.5"
Kokopelli is the humpbacked flute player in the Mixed Dances. He is considered the god of mist, a seducer of women, a baby maker, and a good luck omen for hunters. Kokopelli is found in all of the Pueblo cultures of the Southwest. It is thought that his hump might just represent a bag of gifts that he uses to seduce the women. In this depiction, Kokopelli's headdress is flowing as he dances and plays the flute. On his back is a dance bustle with the traditional sun symbol in the center.


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Rydges Southbank Townsville located in South Townsville, a perfect starting point from which to explore Townsville. The hotel offers a wide range of amenities and perks to ensure you have a great time. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms, 24-hour front desk, facilities for disabled guests, luggage storage, Wi-Fi in public areas are on the list of things guests can enjoy. Designed for comfort, selected guestrooms offer internet access – wireless, internet access – wireless (complimentary), whirlpool bathtub, non smoking rooms, air conditioning to ensure a restful night. The hotel offers various recreational opportunities. A welcoming atmosphere and excellent service are what you can expect during your stay at Rydges Southbank Hotel Townsville.
If you want to stay at the best hotel in Townsville, Trip.com is here to help! Book your hotel on Trip.com for an amazing travel experience. For trips in Townsville, you can choose hotels around the city center or accommodations near popular attractions. If you travel to Australia, visiting Townsville is a good choice.
Every day, travelers worldwide arrive at Townsville Airport to start their vacations and business trips in Townsville. It's easy to reach Townsville. The city can be reached by plane, train, and car.
When visiting Townsville, you can choose from over 84 hotels with great reviews. When looking for hotels in Townsville, there are likely good options at a nightly budget of just 125 AUD. There are 3 five-star hotels in Townsville at an average price of 1091 AUD per night. There are 35 four-star hotels in Townsville at an average price of 108 AUD per night. There are 30 three-star hotels in Townsville at an average price of 98 AUD per night. As a popular tourist city, Townsville has many renowned chain hotels. In Townsville, there are hotels under the Ibis brand. Travelers who favor this brand can choose to stay there to enjoy the luxury services provided by Ibis. Ibis is the top choice of many travelers in Townsville. Oaks Gateway Suites is one of the most popular hotels in Townsville. If you're still unsure, Trip.com recommends Oaks Metropole Hotel.
In the city center of Townsville, you'll have easy access to St James Cathedral, Hooch and Fellow. For short trips in Townsville, XFire Games, Billabong Sanctuary, Pandanus Park Golf Centre are all good options. You can also visit top-rated attractions like Museum of Tropical Queensland, Botanic Gardens, Jezzine Barracks.
Average Temperature
• January to March: 29.11°C during the day, 25.46°C at night
• April to June: 25.01°C during the day, 20.03°C at night
• July to September: 23.45°C during the day, 17.93°C at night
• October to December: 28.48°C during the day, 24.52°C at night
Average seasonal Rainfall
• Spring: 252.1 cm
• Summer: 41.83 cm
• Autumn: 13.57 cm
• Winter: 72.1 cm


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Keynote Topic:
Marketing to Generation Z & Millennials
The Problem:
Millennials and Generation Z have overtaken Baby Boomers and Generation X as the generations with the most spending power.
The Solution
Millennials and Generation Z have the most pent-up purchasing power of any generations. $24 trillion is the estimated wealth of Millennials by 2020 in the U.S. alone. Millennials and Generation Z won't respond to marketing approaches of the past. Social networks, mobile technology, and the evolving landscape of digital payments have changed how the next generations wants to consume.
Ryan shares clear insights into the buying behaviors and expectations of Millennial and Generation Z consumers. This program delivers proven and actionable strategies for gaining the attention of Millennials and Generation Z and earning their long-term loyalty.
Attendees Gain
This program is available as a customized keynote presentation, a half/full-day workshop, or virtually.
"Ryan was the keynote speaker for our Southeast Toyota Marketing Meetings. We received dozens of unsolicited, positive comments regarding Ryan's "Marketing to the Next Generation" presentation. Ryan was a pleasure to work with, taking time to meet with us several times before our tour kicked-off, to ensure we were aligned with content and message. We could not be happier with the outcome and would highly recommend Ryan."


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|Many Chinese men have unnecessary prostate biopsies because the PSA screening test cutoff of 4ng/ml is too low
The first major study to evaluate PSA screening for prostate cancer in a China has found that the currently-used PSA screening test cutoffs are far too low and will lead to overdiagnosis and over treatment.
Doctors at the Department of Urology of Huashan Hospital, Fudan University in Shanghai, reviewed data from 1,650 men who underwent prostate biopsy for prostate cancer at the hospital from 2003–2011
They found that the overall rate of positive biopsy (47%) was much higher than that seen in western countries (less than 35%), but the positive biopsy rate had fallen gradually over the last ten years.
"This may be due to the fact that PSA testing was not popular in China in earlier years and patients were more likely to be biopsied because they were experiencing other symptoms (e.g. hematuria, dysuria). Therefore, they observed higher detection rates of prostate cancer and dropped thereafter due to widespread use of PSA test," the researchers say.
However, their study also showed that the current benchmark PSA level of 4ng/ml for suspicion of prostate cancer - as used in western countries, was inappropriate for the Chinese population.
Only 5% of men with a total PSA level of 4 ng/mL were diagnosed with prostate cancer, much lower than rates in western countries. Even men with a PSA level of 10 ng/mL had lower risk (15%) than men studied in western studies. The tPSA levels at diagnosis for Chinese men were much higher than levels for men in western countries. The tPSA level at diagnosis fluctuated from 28.6 ng/mL to 50.9 ng/mL (median), while in western trials the median ranged from 11.8 ng/mL to 6.3 ng/L.
"Using a cutoff value of 4 ng/mL for prostate biopsy will cause a large number of men to undergo unnecessary prostate biopsies. Thus, we believe that using a cutoff value of total PSA of greater than 4 ng/mL for prostate biopsy in China is not appropriate," they conclude
"We suggest that when using a PSA of over 4 ng/mL as cutoff value for prostate biopsy, fPSA/tPSA, PSAD or other clinical information should be comprehensively considered before a new cutoff value is set up based on further prospective and larger population studies," they add.
Read more: PLOS One


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Nina's Just Desserts – A Novel
Going from a small town Nina takes us on a journey into New York City, as she dreams of an artistic life filled with travel. She has an opportunity to travel to Tuscany where she is exposed to the art of mosaic craftsmanship. Returning to N.Y.C. she takes on a quest to document the underground subway mosaics. Along the way, she falls in love with a complicated stranger almost derailing all her hopes and dreams. This tale is based in part on my adventure of documenting the subway mosaics, for an exhibit at the New York Transit Museum.
My Animal Lives – Children's Book
My Animal Lives, is a short illustrated story about the different animal instincts we take on through our cycles of life. We are born playful among the fishes, become young pups, awkward giraffes, fast on all four, able to adapt, protective like a bear, knowledgeable as an elephant, as small as a turtle with dreams of wings to fly away. My Animal Lives is a quick read that will make you think of your own animal lives.
New York, Wish You Were Here
Published by Schiffer Publications 2014 – A collection of photography, post cards and trivia about Manhattan neighborhoods.
Did you know that Wall Street was once a stockade that marked the end of the city s limits? That Canal Street was built above a canal? That the spire of the Empire State Building was originally used to dock zeppelin planes? That under the Knickerbocker Hotel a private railroad was built for John Jacob Astor and his guests? That the FDR drive was built on landfill shipped from London after WWII? Or that the Cloisters were reconstructed from several medieval abbeys shipped back to the States? This entertaining and informative walk down memory lane has 192 pages chock full of color photographs, antique postcards, and maps, sure to dazzle new and native New Yorker's alike.
The original paperback version published through CreateSpace 2010, also available on Amazon. A fun picture book on NYC. https://www.amazon.com/New-York-Wish-were-here/dp/146117659X


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Jun 24, 2018 - Lord of the Glens
Fort Augustus was named for the Duke of Cumberland, commander of the victorious Hanoverian army at the Battle of Culloden, that momentous turning point in British (and indeed, European) history, when Britain confirmed its position as a leading protestant power. The fort was built to pacify this central part of the Great Glen, and its remains are still visible, incorporated into the foundations of a gym for a new resort complex on the site of the former Abbey School. Fort Augustus today relies heavily on tourism, especially the summer pastime of watching boats and yachts navigate the flight of locks around which the modern settlement is clustered. The previous settlement, known by the Gaelic name Kilchuimen, was erased in the clearances that followed Culloden; only its burial ground remains. We visited the site on a hike last evening.
Our day started at 8 a.m., when the lock keeper began his work of moving down the flight of five locks that are the heart of this small settlement. Ahead of us lay the impressive sight of Loch Ness, the largest body of fresh water in Britain, deeper than the North Sea. Midday, we moved close to the shore for fine views of Urquhart Castle. This ancient site once housed the hill fort of a Pictish leader. Now it is occupied by the ruins of a large Norman castle, its keep and bailey clearly visible from our decks. It was here that St. Columba, according to his first biographer, performed a remarkable miracle: on a mission to convert the Pits of Eastern Scotland, he bid a monster in the loch to descend to its depths when it threatened to impede his passage. Upon arrival in Inverness, Columba succeeded in converting King Bridei (or Brude) of the Picts by explaining that Christ was his druid.
After a final stretch of canal that overlooks the fast-running, salmon-rich River Ness, we arrived at Muirtown Basin in Inverness in time for lunch. In sight of the sea lock at Clachnaharry, we had completed our transit from the Atlantic Ocean to the North Sea.
In the afternoon, we toured the award-winning visitor center at Culloden, the site of the final Jacobite defeat in 1746. Following Culloden, the forces of the crown determined to rid Scotland of treacherous Catholic Gaels. The Gaelic language and clan system were proscribed, the playing of bagpipes was outlawed, and wholesale forcible eviction and emigration ensued (largely to the Canadian Maritime Provinces). This process was known as the Highland Clearances, in which an uneconomic people were replaced with more profitable sheep.
We ended the afternoon's excursion at Clava Cairns, a late Neolithic/early Bronze Age site consisting of chambered burial cairns and megalithic stone circles. We returned to the ship for a festive Scottish farewell dinner, with haggis and bagpipes, followed by a presentation of Highland dancing in the lounge by local schoolchildren.
Join us for updates, insider reports & special offers.


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Softball (19-5, 6-2 Landmark)
The University of Scranton softball team went 5-3 last week, splitting three doubleheaders before earning an important Landmark Conference sweep of Elizabethtown on Sunday at Magis Field.
The Royals split twinbills at Susquehanna (L, 11-1, W, 1-0), Misericordia (L, 4-2, W, 4-1), and Catholic (L, 2-1, W, 4-3) before taking two from Elizabethtown (W, 3-1, W, 3-0), which clinched a playoff berth for the Royals.
Senior Morgan Rentzheimer (Allentown, Pa./Parkland) became the program's all-time leader in starts by a pitcher with the 66th start of career on Sunday against Elizabethtown. Rentzheimer also tied Scranton's all-time record for strikeouts by a pitcher with the 334th of her career, which came against the Blue Jays.
Freshman Jennifer Sweeney (Dumont, N.J./Dumont) continued her outstanding rookie season both at the plate in in the circle. Sweeney collected a team-leading 13 hits on the week including three home runs while adding six RBI. She also won all four games she pitched in, posting a 0.93 ERA with two complete game shutouts.
Scranton will return to action on Tuesday with a non-conference doubleheader against Keystone starting at 5 p.m. at Magis Field.
Baseball (10-11, 3-4 Landmark)
The University of Scranton baseball team went 2-3 last week as all five games were played at Volpe Field at the Quinn Athletics Campus.
On Monday, April 9, the Royals lost a slugfest against Marywood, 19-18. Sophomore first baseman Kevin Haag (Ossining, N.Y./Ossining/Bridgton Academy) singled twice, tripled, drove in four runs and scored one. Sophomore shortstop Travis Adams (Clark, N.J./St. Joseph's-Metuchen) had three hits, two runs, an RBI and a stolen base.
Two days later, the Royals rebounded to defeat DeSales, 10-7. Haag led the offense with two singles, a double, three RBIs and two runs scored. Senior center fielder Tommy Trotter (Cranford, N.J./Cranford) doubled twice and scored three times.
On Saturday, April 14, the Royals dropped both ends of a Landmark Conference doubleheader against Catholic, losing 12-5 and 6-2. Senior catcher Kevin Nolan (Ossining, N.Y./Fordham Prep) had four hits, a run, an RBI and five stolen bases on the day.
The baseball team capped the week by defeating Catholic, 4-2, in the final game of their Landmark Conference series on Sunday. Senior second baseman Brad Schneider (Ambler, Pa./LaSalle College H.S.) drove in three runs, junior righty Pat Rohr (Audubon, Pa./Devon Prep) worked seven strong innings on the mound for the win, and junior righty Bryan Carmon (Flemington, N.J./Hunterdon Central) pitched two scoreless innings for the save.
The Royals will be back in action on Tuesday, April 17, when they travel to Wayne, N.J. to face William Paterson at 7 p.m.
Men's Lacrosse (8-5, 2-2 Landmark)
The University of Scranton men's lacrosse team dropped its only game of the week, falling at Elizabethtown, 12-6, in a Landmark Conference game on Saturday, April 14.
Sophomore midfielder Joe Hill (South Hempstead, N.Y./South Side) had a goal and an assist to lead the Royals' attack.
The men's lacrosse team will be back in action on Wednesday, April 18, when the Royals travel to Madison, N.J. to face Drew in a Landmark Conference game at 7 p.m.
Women's Lacrosse (7-6, 3-1 Landmark)
The University of Scranton women's lacrosse split a pair of games last week, bouncing back from a 14-11 setback at Oneonta on Wednesday to defeat Elizabethtown 19-13 in a Landmark Conference game on Saturday at Fitzpatrick Field.
In Wednesday's non-conference setback to the Red Dragons, freshman Jill Henson (Baldwinsville, N.Y./Christian Brothers Academy) led all players with four goals while junior Elena Gallo (East Meadow, N.Y./Kellenberg Memorial) netted a hat trick.
On Saturday, Gallo scored a career-high eight goals, including the 100th of her career, and sophomore Shannon Warburton (Wantagh, N.Y./Wantagh) added a career-best five tallies to lead the Royals past the Blue Jays.
Freshman Lauren Devlin (Doylestown, Pa./Central Bucks West) made seven saves in relief to earn the victory in goal.
Scranton will next host Drew in a Landmark Conference on Wednesday at 4 p.m. at Fitzpatrick Field.
Women's Tennis (13-3, 4-0 Landmark)
The University of Scranton women's tennis team remained unbeaten in Landmark Conference play with a pair of victories over the weekend. The Royals defeated Moravian 7-2 on Saturday on the Royal Courts before posting an 8-1 victory at Elizabethtown on Sunday.
The Royals honored seniors Julia Frattaroli (Newtown, Conn./Newtown) and Katherine Loughlin (Binghamton, N.Y./Seton Catholic Central) prior to Saturday's match against the Greyhounds.
Frattaroli, sophomore Nastashia DeNunzio (Dunmore, Pa./Dunmore), junior Emilia Jakubek (Honesdale, Pa./Scranton Prep), and freshman Tatiana Klacko (Scranton, Pa./Scranton Prep) all won two matches apiece to lead Scranton to the win over Moravian.
On Sunday, Frattaroli, DeNunzio, Jakubek, and Klacko again won two matches apiece as the Royals cruised past the Blue Jays to retain sole possession of first place in the Landmark Conference standings.
Scranton will next host Drew in a Landmark Conference match on Wednesday starting at 4:00 p.m. on the Royal Courts.
Men's Tennis (8-3, 3-1)
The University of Scranton men's tennis team won a pair of Landmark Conference matches over the weekend, defeating Moravian on Saturday, 9-0 at the Royal Courts before posting a 9-0 victory at Elizabethtown on Sunday.
Prior to Saturday's match, the Royals honored seniors Christian Aksu (Exton, Pa./West Chester East), Keller McGurrin (Clarks Summit, Pa./Scranton Prep), and Emmett Ryan (Manchester, Mass./Canterbury School).
Aksu, McGurrin, junior Alexander Ochalski (Hopewell, N.J./Hopewell Valley Central), and junior Brian Harkins (New Fairfield, Conn./New Fairfield) won two matches each as Scranton cruised past Moravian.
In Sunday's big win at Elizabethtown, McGurrin, Ochalski, Harkins, freshman Tarquin McGurrin (Clarks Summit, Pa./Scranton Prep), and junior Charles Swope (Malvern, Pa./Great Valley) won two matches apiece to lead the Royals.
Scranton will return to action on Wednesday with a home match against Drew starting at 4:00 p.m. on the Royal Courts.
Women's Track & Field
The University of Scranton women's track & field team competed in the Coach P Invitational at Moravian on Friday and Saturday, facing competition from all three NCAA divisions.
Scranton's top performer on the weekend was sophomore Caroline Banas (Dallas, Pa./Holy Redeemer), who finished fourth in the high jump, clearing 1.60 meters (5 feet, 3 inches).
The men's track & field team will be back in action on Saturday, April 21, when the Royals compete in the All-American Meet at East Stroudsburg University in East Stroudsburg, Pa.
Men's Track & Field
The University of Scranton men's track & field team had five student-athletes earn top-20 finishes at the Coach P Invitational at Moravian on Friday and Saturday, April 13-14, while competing against a mix of competition from all three NCAA divisions.
The top finisher for the Royals was sophomore Eric Bartlett (Sayville, N.Y./Sayville), who was 11th in the 5,000-meter run with a time of 16:25.01.
The men's track & field team will be back in action on Saturday, April 21, when the Royals compete in the All-American Meet at East Stroudsburg University in East Stroudsburg, Pa.
Men's Golf (9-1)
The men's golf team had a good week, going 3-0 in a pair of events as the Royals get their spring season going full swing.
On Friday, April 13, the Royals rolled to a 309-430 win over Keystone at Stonehedge Golf Course in Tunkhannock, Pa. Freshman Thomas McAuliffe (Reiserstown, Md./Loyola-Blakefield) earned medalist honors with a 4-over-par 75, matching his career low. Senior Michael Boland (Dallas, Pa./Holy Redeemer) shot a season-low 76.
A day later, the Royals edged Marywood, 306-309, and defeated Clarks Summit, 306-454, at Scranton Municipal Golf Course in Mt. Cobb, Pa. Junior Erik Ridley (Allentown, Pa./Allentown Central Catholic) led the team with a 74 as the Royals had four golfers shoot 80.
The men's golf team is scheduled to return to action on Wednesday, April 18, when they host Wilkes and Marywood at 1 p.m. at Glenmaura National Golf Club.
Women's Golf (4-4)
The women's golf team dropped a pair of matches against Marywood as the team got its spring season underway last week.
On Thursday, April 12, the Royals fell to the Pacers in match play, 5-0, at Glenmaura National Golf Club. Two days later in a stroke play event, Marywood scored a 363-387 win over the Royals. Junior Maura McDonough (Dunmore, Pa./Holy Cross) led the Royals with a 91 on Saturday.
The women's golf team will be back in action on Thursday, April 19, when the Royals face Keystone at Stonehedge Golf Course at 12:30 p.m. in Tunkhanock, Pa.
This Week in University of Scranton Athletics
Tuesday, April 17
Baseball – at William Paterson (4 p.m.)
Softball – vs. Keystone, DH (5 p.m.)
Wednesday, April 18
Men's golf – vs. Wilkes/Marywood (1 p.m.)
Women's lacrosse – vs. Drew (4 p.m.)
Softball – vs. Marywood (4 p.m.)
Men's tennis – vs. Drew (4 p.m.)
Women's tennis – vs. Drew (4 p.m.)
Baseball – vs. Widener (5 p.m.)
Men's lacrosse – at Drew (7 p.m.)
Thursday, April 19
Women's golf – at Keystone, Stonehedge G.C. (12:30 p.m.)
Saturday, April 21
Men's track & field – at All-American Meet, East Stroudsburg Univ. (9:30 a.m.)
Women's track & field – at All-American Meet, East Stroudsburg Univ. (9:30 a.m.)
Women's golf – vs. Marywood, Glenmaura G.C. (12 p.m.)
Baseball – at Drew, DH (12:30 p.m.)
Men's lacrosse – vs. Susquehanna (1 p.m.)
Women's lacrosse – at Susquehanna (1 p.m.)
Softball – vs. Drew, DH (1 p.m.)
Women's tennis – at Susquehanna (1 p.m.)
Men's tennis – at Susquehanna (1 p.m.)
Sunday, April 22
Men's golf – Glenmaura National Collegiate Invitational, first round (12 p.m.)
Men's tennis – at Juniata (12 p.m.)
Women's tennis – at Juniata (12 p.m.)
Baseball – at Drew (12 p.m.)


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This market insight report on Unnatural Amino Acids gives an insight into the different types of Unnatural Amino Acids (?-Amino Acids, ?-Amino Acid Derivatives, Cyclic Amino Acids & Derivatives, D-Amino Acids, D-Amino Acid Derivatives, DL-Amino Acids, DL-Amino Acid Derivatives, L-Amino Acid Derivatives and Other ) and their application areas such as R&D, Pharmaceutical, Food & Feed, Agrochemicals and Other.
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3.5 Asia-Pacific Unnatural Amino Acids Market
3.6 Rest of World Unnatural Amino Acids Market
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PureCam Connected Car Security System with 16GB SD Card & 4-Month Unlimited Data Plan ($165 value)
|Data Plan
|Includes Unlimited 4G LTE Wireless Data Plan for 4 Month ($165 Value)
|Micro SD Card
|Includes One 16GB Micro SD Card ($10 Value)
|Cloud Storage
|Compatible Wireless Network Carriers
|ATT, T-Mobile
|Compatible Vehicles
|All vehicles manufactured in 1996 or later and come equipped with an OBD-II interface.
|Wi-Fi Hotspot b/g/n 2.4GHz
|Display Screen / Screen Size
|4" Color IPS LCD (800 X 480)
|Recording Resolution / Video Quality
|Front facing 1080P, 720P, VGA
|Night Vision
|Interior infrared
|Automatic Incident Detection / G-Sensor
|Live Streaming
|Yes / HD
|Recording Capacity
|8GB SD Card Storage
|App Compatibility
|iOS 9 or later and Android 6 or later
|Package Contents
|PureCam, OBD-II plug charging cable, adjustable mount, 4 cable management clips, vehicle installation guide
|Memory Card
|8GB, 16GB, or 32GB Micro SD memory card (Micro SD card must be: FAT32 format, MicroSDHC, Class 10 or higher)
|Viewing Angle
|Front Facing Camera: 160°
|Frame Rate
|Front Facing Camera: 30 frames per second
|Loop Recording Duration
|1 or 3 or 5 minutes
|Video Format
|TS Format
|5V, Maximum 2A
|Low Voltage Protection
|Power Source
|Product Dimensions
|4.25" x 1" x 3" / 10.8 cm x 2.54 cm x 7.62 cm
|Item Weight
|4.4 ozs. / 0.275 lbs.
|Wire/Cord Length
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|Recommended Operating Temperature
|-20° to 65°C / -4° to 149 °F
|1.5 GHz, MT8665 Quad Core Processor
|SIM Card
|English, Spanish, French
|Camera Mounting Location
|Mount Type
|Suction Cup
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You can download the Vehicle Installation Guide HERE
PureCam is compatible with T-Mobile.
Your PureCam continuously records while you're driving. Depending on the size of your Micro SD card and resolution of your videos you can record. Please reference chart below.
Please note: The information in the chart above are approximate and may vary based on the individual user scenario.
Your PureCam videos are only shared with users that have scanned your PureCam QR code.
No. The PureCam is only compatible with the cellular network bands used in North America.
No. The camera and your data are private. If you share your PureCam with your family or friends, they will be granted access to view your data and videos.
Yes, you can add up to 3 PureCams to one account.
The PureCam comes bundled with a standard SD card and a data plan. Because of this, the three items will be locked in at 1 each. You are able to adjust the amount of bundles by scrolling further to the bottom and adjusting the number next to the "Add to Cart" button.
The PureCam goes into Parking Mode after 4 minutes if no activity is detected. Parking Mode draws a small amount of power in an effort to preserve battery life. If your battery reaches a low voltage, the PureCam will turn off. The low voltage protection will still allow your car to start. Your battery will recharge as you drive your car.
You will receive a push notification on your phone that a G-sensored event has occurred. The PureCam will be recording, so there will be images of the incident in your cloud memory.
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Hi everyone. Apparently, we didn't relax enough over the long weekend, and we need more time to recharge! Jonathan has one show in the hopper, soon to be published, and we also have audio from the Atlanta Techstravaganza show from not too long ago that we want to get out to you guys.
But have no fear, we will be back for a live show on September 11th! For that show, we are going to have Jason Helmick come turn the tables and interview us this time, so that should be something different.
In the meantime–please send us your feedback! In particular, we are always looking for guest and topic ideas. You can mail the show, or tweet to us @powerscripting.