text:
- Hadar Cohen
- New York, NY
- United States
Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art
This conversation is closed.
Is the heart overlooked when it comes to intelligence?
The center of the nervous system, the brain, has been popularly defined as the fundamental core of intellectual activity. Yet, in my Bioelectricity class with Professor Nina Tandon, we learned about recent research suggesting that information processing in the body may in fact be more distributed.
For example, there is increasing evidence suggesting that the cardioelectromagenetic field can actually affect human beings in close proximity.These signals are stronger in amplitude when in direct contact, but are still detectable up to several feet away from the source. Through these interactions, the heart transfers energies between human beings. The heart can therefore be characterized as the engine for distributing and controlling energy of the human body.
These extraordinary results illustrate that the heart is not only responsible for blood regulations, but is also a very powerful intelligence system.
This made me wonder, could intelligence be distributed through the body in ways we might not expect? Could this information sent to the brain perhaps even influence emotional states? Or provide insight into some of the unexplained links between "mental" and "bodily" diseases (eg Alzheimer's and cardiac disease etc)?
See: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3547419/
and http://books.google.com/books?id=pvkpdNHhI6cC for more details
Given that the heart and other organs are frequently excluded from the
intellectual discussion, I would like to ask the Ted community, how do
these new findings affect how we view intelligence? How will our
interactions with each other differ if we view more of our bodies as
Apr 11 2013: Yes, I think intelligence is distributed throughout the body, and only now is evidence beginning to catch up with intuition in this and many other areas. This opens up the wider implications in the gulf of understanding - trust even - between intuition and science.
There is good reason why we refer to "the gut" for instinct and "the heart" for emotion, feeling and love, and there is extraordinary evidence from heart transplant patients, who relate that their emotions and interests changed post-operatively, to those of their donor. This phenomenon, known as "cellular memory" has been researched by Dr David Armour at the University of Montreal:
This should come as no surprise, since the heart has been found to contain 40,000 neurons, so is in effect a small "brain".
As a supplementary to your question, it's worth noting that the gut also contains neurons. This from Scientific American:
"The enteric nervous system uses more than 30 neurotransmitters, just like the brain, and in fact 95 percent of the body's serotonin is found in the bowels"
This could mean that there is a link between the "brain" in the gut and disorders such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Depression - and perhaps the misplaced role of SSRIs in prolonging the presence of serotonin in the gut rather than the brain in our head.
Apr 11 2013: Good information Allan!
It does not come as a surprise to me. New research is reinforcing these ideas, which actually go back to ancient times, and demonstrate the interconnectivity with all parts of the body/mind systems.
The ancient practices of yoga, acupuncture, reflexology, etc. and the not so ancient practices of reiki, iridology, etc. are based on the interconnecting body/mind systems:>)
Apr 11 2013: Hi Colleen. You are right - It never ceases to amaze me too, that many ancient wisdoms are only now being 'rediscovered' by modern science.
Apr 11 2013: Yes indeed Allan.....it is called "New Age"......"The New Psychology".......LOL:>)Apr 11 2013: Hi Colleen,
Very interesting that you connected this new research with ancient practice. I find that we often think of ancient practices as antiquated, however, they can definitely open up areas of knowledge for us. It is easy to dismiss the past by claiming that they were less knowledgeable than us, but human intuition proves that we can actually learn quite a bit from analyzing their conventions.
Apr 11 2013: I agree Hadar, that some people would like to dismiss ancient practices, and perhaps some of them SHOULD be dismissed. However, there are many things that were KNOWN by people in ancient times that are still very relevant in modern times, and I think it benefits us to build on that knowledge, which seemed to be very natural for people in ancient times.
The interconnectivity of the body/mind systems seems to have been very well known in ancient times, and for awhile, we dismissed those beliefs in favor of modern technology and science. Now, we are re-discovering the connections again, and in my humble perception, ancient wisdom AND modern technology all fits together!......I LOVE it!Apr 12 2013: Colleem,
I really like how you connect ancient wisdom and modern technology. It is a very unique relation that many overlook. I would love to explore more what this connection really entails of.
But you are right, the inter-connectivity of the body and mind has been a concept that was very widespread in ancient times. It is amazing how they viewed the body as directly affected by the mind. I think this type of awareness of the effects of our systems is highly important in understanding how humans actually function.
Apr 17 2013: Hadar
I agree...it is important to understand the body/mind connections, and I believe in using ALL availabe information:>)
I had some interesting "seeds" planted at a very young age.
My parents had a huge garden, chickens, fresh eggs, meat, fresh veggies, herbs and fruits. We ate fresh from the garden in summer, and canned food for winter months....healthy!
My mom LOVED "Prevention Magazine", which introduced many alternative practices and ideas for keeping the body healthy, and I found it fascinating:>)
I began working at age 13, and one of my most significant jobs, was at age 17, as an operating room technician…assisting for major surgeries…I got to observe the interconnecting systems of live human bodies, and that was a HUGE learning experience.
Jump ahead to age 30, when I was diagnosed with degenerative disc disease in the spine, which is generally a progressively disabling condition. It is common as we age, but I was only 30. After taking pain meds, being in traction and wearing a neck brace, none of which relieved the pain, a fusion of the spine was advised. Well, I had seen THAT done, and was not impressed! I started exploring alternative practices, and of course everything I had been exposed to started to come into play.
As I explored holistic practices I decided to strengthen the muscular system to support the degenerating spine. It wasn't "work", because I started playing tennis, volleyball, sailboat racing, and dancing, as well as yoga….all of which strengthened the upper body. For 10 years, I strengthened the body and mind with alternative practices. I knew that the DDD would not heal, and I managed it pretty well.
What I didn't know, was that what I was learning about the body/mind would be used again, when, at age 43 I sustained a near fatal head/brain injury from a horseback riding accident. Upon regaining consciousness after an emergency craniotomy, my family and I were told I would never function normally again. Time to rebuild..again
Comment deletedApr 11 2013: Hi Allan,
Thanks for posting all these resources, I really appreciate it! These new research findings are fascinating as they definitely make us question what exactly is the function of various body parts and how they interact with each other.
I like how you broadened the question of the relationship between intuition and science. This is something I think about quite often, and I really think should be discussed more.
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Apr 13 2013: Hi Don,
Thanks for that video link. It is fascinating.
I'd like to take a look at all four parts, so may take me some time!Apr 17 2013: I can safely assume that the bulk of information processing happens in the Central Nervous System (CNS), especially when it comes to bodily action that relate to consciousness.
This does not mean that our whole body affects and co-influences our CNS. Our hormones and sensors give a lot of information and influence what we do and think.
I do agree that we do not fully understand all the interactions between all our organs (I think the possible permutations are staggering)
we know that food influences our moral decisions (judges give smaller punishments after a snack).
On a cell level, we can assume there is a lot of regulation and communication going on (with surrounding cells).
Still, it's nerve cells who are speciallized in information processing and passing it on to the other nerve cels
So is there a possibility our heart "thinks"? I don't think so. The article refers to a nerve nucleus: It's function certainy is information processing (as our gut-brain does as well). But the number of cells there probably indicates that it's contribution [to intelligence] cannot be as big as that of the CNS
As for the cardio-electromagnetic field theory... I am very sceptical about that (I see it pop up more often in pseudo-science and new-age than in actual scientific research)
Apr 17 2013: I agree with you Christophe. But I think it's a pity. It looks like just because some people use pseudo-scientific attempts to correlate heart with intelligence, scientists shy away from examining it critically.
Intelligence is under appreciated in my opinion. You are right that information processing is primarily done by CNS and there is no denying that for humans CNS is pretty developed. But what exactly is intelligence?
I think we always define intelligence with the idea of a goal or purpose in mind. A person can be very intelligent while grasping a physical reality and very dumb while managing relationships or emotions. I broached the subject of emotional intelligence in this context.
Purely biologically, where propagation of genes is the ultimate purpose, an organism that has traded a developed and complex CNS for a survival related adaptive trait that helps it to continue for millions of years, can be viewed as biologically intelligent.
I may be wrong, but it appears to me that our idea of intelligence is too outwardly directed, so much that we often say our brain decides this or that, and 'we' are relegated to a living corpse. Can it it be so there is another kind of intelligence within our body, among our organs, a mind blowing concert between different parts of our body to achieve seemingly mundane tasks like drinking a glass of water?
I think that is a very interesting and useful question to ask. I just hope scientists of future will take this question seriously.
Fritzie -
Apr 17 2013: I particularly appreciated hearing from a neuroscientist here. Thank you for contributing!Apr 16 2013: Hadar,
- +1
I survived a heart attack. I can tell you from my experience that one of the most noticeable symptoms of heart attack is a sense of impending doom. Some call it anxiety, but I noticed it's more than that. Now why heart, a muscle basically, under attack makes the brain to send such signals you think?
I heard when a heart attack is imminent, certain hormones are released into blood stream to cause that sense of doom. Do you think it is an alarm system of the body?
I also heard that laughter keeps the heart healthy. Do you think it has scientific basis?
This conversation is drawing to a close, but I hope you will ponder. Thanks.
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Apr 12 2013: Hi Chris,
I completely agree with you that understanding consciousness is highly significant to science. I like your phrase of "materialistic science"- it definitely evokes certain thoughts.
I feel that while scientists have done a great job at exploring the Intellectual Brain, they did not give as much meaning to the Emotional Brain or the Motor Brain. I would love to learn more about these types of brains and how they differ from the Intellectual Brain.
Thank you for posting all this information!Apr 13 2013: How can you have non-materialistic science? Science has to have something tangible to study? Just because we dont know yet how the brain produces consciousness doesnt mean we will never know. The brain governs the entire body and everything in it, so obviously its connected with eveything. The brain is the command and control center everything else in the body is kind of a slave to the brains command, except that which happens anywhere else effects the brain also. Theres actually some pretty good theorys, backed by observation, that could help you better understand what consciousness really is.Apr 14 2013: The problem with your thinking is that it ignores what "science" actually is. Science is the action of studying physical phenomena. If some type of metaphysics existed whether it be telepathy or whatever, then it would have to be able to be studied before science would be able to accept it. Consciousness is a mystery although existing cognitive science does have some theories. However scientists are humble enough to admitt what they dont know. By postulating an idea without evidence is not scientific by any means. You said the brain doesnt produce experience? Well i guess then hundreds of million$$ are being wasted in Neuroscience study brain activity and what its associated with, using MRI. STOP PROMOTING GARBAGE AND CALLING IT REAL. you can believe what you want but if your going to sell PHILOSOPHY call it PHILOSOPHY dont call it SCIENCE.
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Apr 15 2013: Dude for real? You do know i was being vague considering i dont have all the time and space in the world to type.
"Nothing is generated by the brain; thoughts come from our body of consciousness ... collectively known as the mind, aka, the soul."
"Nothing is "produced by" the brain. The brain is a processor, not a generator, nor does it store anything.
The brain processes, period."
Absolute garbage.. like i said dont call your philosophy, science, please. Ill let your ignorance go.. Peace
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Apr 15 2013: Science is the action of making a hypothesis that can be tested, testing it, and drawing a conclusion from the data collected. If you cant test your "theories" than their just "theories" not science. Go worship the sun!
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Apr 17 2013: science doesnt accept anything that doesnt have evidence to validate it. ideas are what make Philosophy but its only where science begins. Science Does not just accept something until proven otherwise..exactly the opposite. the "social brain" is a concept. the reality behind that concept is not fully understood. we are social animals that evolved this way. If you have a question be more specific and ill attempt to answer it.Apr 16 2013: Hi Hadar,
It is interesting to ponder possibilities of an alternate intellectual infrastructure of the human body, however, I don't think that evidence of a cardioelectromagenetic field affecting a human in close proximity is evidence that a deeper intellectual system manifested in the heart or other organs may exist. Why is this alleged cause and effect relationship between an electromagnetic field and a human different from the sense of touch or any other sensory input that the brain perceives? I'm not sure what you mean by "intelligence" though. Many complex and "intelligent" processes occur to make even the simplest of bodily processes possible. At least for me personally, these findings will not have any affect on how I interact with other humans. Even if I do believe a person's heart is "smart", what difference does the source (brain or other organ) of intelligence make? Just my two cents.
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Apr 15 2013: So you transcended duality? When you where in school did you study history? The idea of science initially was motivated equally by an emerging world-view than the method of inquiring itself? Voltaire proclaimed "The Age of Reason Is the War on Superstition". Science emerged to fight Dogma and dissolve the superstitious world view. Makes sense right? Science provides medical explanations while religion and intuition provide demons. Theres a documentary called "Witch Doctor." Its about a Shamans in Africa who tells people (and actually believes) you can be cured of AIDS if you have sex with a virgin, now you can imagine how this played out. In short, Psuedo-scientific new age/ quasi-spiritual non-sense will lead us back to the dark ages. If you want to live in the Empirical world and not the Fantasy world than embrace real science, please. At least Keep your spiritual stuff away from science.. personally you can believe what you want.Apr 15 2013: Carolyn I fully agree with you and have the feeling also that materialism is seen as the way to be and the way to go. The most important aspect and aim of life seems to be now, to die as the richest person possible. It is all about what we have, not what we do or why.
The two major motivators in this world seem to have lost the connection to each other and have also lost their connection to reality. This life is not only about matter and it is also not only about spirit. Both should relate to, and respect, each other and acknowledge their limits.
We basically need a spiritual motivation to use scientific (or physical items) to assist and help each other and society. What science does not see or cannot sensor it says 'does not exist' and the ones 'defending' the Bible have (I'm sorry to say) almost no idea what they're talking about.
Gladly there is now a way to reconnect.
Karmel Blue
Apr 15 2013: Agree materialism is the goal these days and many do not care how many others they trample on to get there. It is clearly a good aim to be reasonably financially secure, roof over your head,food, kids through college, decent car, retirement funding.
- +1
Avarice (greed for money) brings, jealously, often working yourself into the ground, disconnect from community and family, no respect for others including animals. Lives of isolation and ignorance of the world around you. I look at Australia's Billionairess + wealthiest woman in world through mining. Totally oblivious to the world/community around her it appears and total disarray btw family members.
A survey asked ....towards the end of your life....was my life lived worthwhile? Looking back what would you have done differently ? Top answer ...to have stopped to smell the roses...spent more time with my family, not worked so hard. Connected with community.Apr 15 2013: I wish reply chains could go on longer than they do. Pabitra, I think there are several problems that I have with this article and ones like it. First, a lot of the references cited came from something called "subtle energies", which seems highly suspicious to me, and I still don't know what it is. Second, the mechanisms they talk about constantly mix science and pseudoscience (for example, the talk about practitioners adopting a "sincere caring attitude, and thus introducing increased coherence into their cardiac field.") Furthermore, "If we define energy as the capacity to produce an effect, these experiments suggest that an exchange of energy has occurred. It has also been demonstrated that many of these therapeutic effects occur without physical touch, indicating that energy of some kind is radiated or broadcast between practitioner and patient". This is incredibly vague, and doesn't give me any good idea of the mechanisms even adding all the Electromagnetic field stuff into the equation.
Mainstream science journals hold the position that the the evidence for any kind of "energy healing" is lacking, and the studies that do see evidence have been criticized for using bad methodology and "selection bias".
Karmel Blue
Apr 15 2013: Noah yes the 'evidence' is missing. One day though when I'd say the world is more at peace and perhaps do we dare to hope world hunger gone, this 'metaphor' proof might be found.
- +1
There is a large teaching hospital probably the best in my State of Victoria Australia. It has just put in a cancer building of 10 storeys high ... it also includes alternative therapies as well as cancer drugs. Only just been opened and they are collecting the data if and hopefully why the both together might work. First instigated by singer Olivier Newton-John for whom it is named.
The was a heart surgeon there I think and after scrubbs, he would pray (not prey) over his patients ..... his success rate was many times better than any other surgeon.
No explanation to that either ... not yet that isApr 15 2013: Dear Noah,
I am aware what is mainstream science, how it works and validated. But I think there are substantial branches of studies that are arguably outside of mainstream science but are credible by their own processes. Some are observational, some behavioral and some statistical. The scientific process of inquiry and scientific evidence are quite well defined and the publication might not apparently meet that standard but I prefer to keep myself open to all new work and observations from these and believe that will not harm mainstream science in any way.
I also find 'real science' a rather rarefied claim. There is science and there are other things.
Btw, I notice that you feel uncomfortable with semantics of propositions. Unfortunately, science still needs language for communication and language does not follow scientific and evidence based practice. You can check descriptions of postulates by very mainstream scientists about a century back. I did, and it appeared to me that it came from a pseudo-scientist.
I think science is unable to handle the whole idea of healing, let alone energy healing. Some may take a position like how long do we wait till mainstream science finds scientific evidence for nursing and healing to be having positive effect on patients, while tons of personal experience affirming that to be something tangible.
Apr 15 2013: One kind of research/science needs the other. So called proven science of today is often something else or discredited 20 years down the track.
One kind of 'research' cannot stand alone. If Science is to progress it needs to be mindful and encompass 'alternative' belief/science !
Great to think Ms. Cohen has the competence to realise this. Bravo.Apr 15 2013: I think you're aware of the placebo, which is exactly why we have "tons of personal experiences". And the effect disappears when we take the placebo away. You say "I think science is unable to handle the whole idea of healing, let alone energy healing", but if the only way we are going to get an effect is to not study it, something is wrong.
Apr 16 2013: Are you seriously saying all our personal experiences are placebo? Placebo meaning a simulated or otherwise medically ineffectual treatment for a disease or other medical condition intended to deceive the recipient?
Kindly elucidate how science has studied, explained and refuted/proved the process of nursing and healing. Or are you saying nursing and healing are placebo, too?Apr 16 2013: The placebo effect is when a person's health improves just by them thinking it will. That's why when they do drug testing, they give the control group a placebo (a pill that does nothing) so that they can rule out the possibility of the placebo being the reason the drug works. The placebo has been studied extensively, and effects are great, especially when all it needs to do is make a patient feel better (particularly in energy healing, homeopathic medicine, or other alternatives.)Apr 15 2013: I agree. Im appalled at how many people just except this kind of garbage upon faith. I sware pseudo-scientific journals are the Bible of the New Age religion. The same people who like to think they embrace science, really are only distorting it and not even applying its wisdom and method properly. People want to believe in something, If the traditional faith are not working, people will create a new creed with a seemingly higher legitimacy, and thats what this stuff is.
Apr 15 2013: Thank you. But I am surprised that you are appalled. That to be credible and authentic you have to be somehow scientific is a dogma in itself and it has been created by generations of practitioners of science. To prevent seemingly impossible things to be accomplished out of new age fluff, science and scientists have been stereotyped as nerds, just check Hollywood potboilers to see how just impressive machines, funny sounds and assembly of blinking consoles along with some jargon thrown in can make utterly ludicrous ideas seem authentic.The onus of the distortion is squarely on societies and cultures who worshiped machines, productions and material results.
I think you are aware that science can well cease to be an inquiry, can grow into a belief system (which some call scienticism) and warp even the brightest of minds. Newton started one. It took half a century to take the non-deterministic views of natural sciences seriously.
I hope I made it amply clear that i do not accept there is anything such as real science. There is science and there are other things. In my humble opinion, I am unable to discard any inquiry just because it did not follow scientific process and EBP. Therefore Ms. Cohen's question is quite legitimate to me and I am confident I can separate out the voodoo from a reasoned research and you need not worry.
Apr 16 2013: " That to be credible and authentic you have to be somehow scientific is a dogma in itself and it has been created by generations of practitioners of science"- First, thats how science was born as ive mentioned in a differant comment.. Science was born out of conflict with dogma and superstition. Science is a verb, not a noun. The principle behind science is to make claims based on empirical evidence rather than faith or superstition... seems to be a universal and infallible idea for Logic.
Scientists can become dogmatic but not "science." Because real science is based on real facts and real evidence. Newtonian physics is deterministic but for the purpose of his research into the macro-universe yes to this day it is still deterministic. If it wasnt you couldnt have any applied science of physics for example if laws governing our macro-universe where probabalistic than rockets airplanes cars our own motions etc.. couldnt be possible to formulate without a constant re-adjustment. The new paradigm of relativity replaced the classic views because now they had perspective on light, waves, space-time, the particle universe etc... but it didn't change the way physics was already understood relative to the everyday
matter we constantly interact with.. of course you shouldn't discard a theory if it had not yet been verified by science but you shouldn't be Certain of something that hasn't been proven, and definately, and this is what bugs me, no body could discard the oceans of scientific evidence that has already been accepted to re-enforce some "idea" or philosophy they have.Apr 16 2013: I appreciate your passion. However, I have very different ideas about almost everything you are saying.
1. Though it helped greatly to remove, Science was NOT born out of conflict with dogma and superstition. Probably you are mistaken by the scientific revolution that took place in 16th and 17th century Europe. Empirical investigations of the natural world have been described since classical antiquity (for example, by Thales, Aristotle, and others), and scientific methods have been employed since the Middle Ages (for example, by Ibn al-Haytham, and Roger Bacon). More ancient references of science can be found in Hindu philosophies. Science originated as a systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge in the form of testable explanations and predictions about the universe. I see it as an incrementally developing human inquiry rather than a revolutionary idea out of a war or fight.
2. It is good that you see science and scientists as different. 'Scientist' is a relatively modern term coined by William Whewell in the 19th century. Previously there were only natural philosophers. But I am very confused with your statement "Scientists can become dogmatic but not "science." Scientists can be dogmatic, but what is that dogma, then?
3. Universal and infallible idea of Logic is not the forte of science, not exclusively. It better not be because had it been so you would have required no evidence. Logic, as proclaimed, is good enough to establish a truth.
4. I think science is a noun, not verb in dictionaries. As a body of knowledge it should be a noun. Science can appear a verb when scientific and critical thinking is a teaching tool but even then the idea is controversial.
Apr 16 2013: Definately, what you said was the most thought out thing and i respect that. I guess the nature of Language is fallible. I think at some points you are not grasping whats im saying.. and not because it beyond you but because words are semantic. Indeed you are right on certain fronts but i believe you attempt to find the grey areas in what can be interpretted by my words and start an argument. For example the whole scientific revolution thing and Aristotle. I mean yes depending on a broader definition of science you where right however your deliberately ignoring the context in which im writing and my point. I was wrong in using "certainty" because it come across too absolute and yes science is fluid, however science is not build on assumptions.. the conclusions drawn are from sold evidence. Also much of what i convey is a matter of Fact that you can research not perspective.. atleast if your being objective. You totally did not catch what i was attempting to convey about Classical Physics and quantum mechanics. I feel no need to really explain but a huge problem in todays physics is understanding... how matter in the microcosm acts through probabalism and in the macro-universe it has through determinism. How does matter made of matter behaving undeterministically.. act deterministically? Digest what I say!Apr 16 2013: 5. You are making a distinction between everyday 'matter' we constantly interact with and other things that relativistic or quantum physics deals with. Is that a special physics? Your chain of universality and infallibility of logic seems to break down here. I hope you know that a million observations of white swans will not make the proposal 'all swans are white' true but a single observation of a black swan will establish the proposition 'all swans may not be white'. If the knowledge of quantum indeterminacy, relativism and probability did not change the physics the way everyday matter is understood, it appears that science does compromise with practicality and let us know things the way we can comprehend. It does not make everyday matter science beyond question, isn't?
6. I am seriously confused about the certainty that you are implying to be coming from scientific proof. If I have understood anything about science, it NEVER proclaims certainty of anything, not even with oceans of scientific evidence. Science remains falsifiable. That is why millions of students study science, piece through works of people before them, aspire to challenge and falsify one little bit and that's how science progresses. No one has spoken last word about science.
7. Science does not require crusaders like Keith Weissman or Pabitra Mukhopadhyay to be saved from pseudo-science because it is far too great a human quest and far too inclusive than you may care to think.
I think you will benefit from reading the works of Thomas Kuhn.
Apr 17 2013: "If I have understood anything about science, it NEVER proclaims certainty of anything, not even with oceans of scientific evidence. Science remains falsifiable."
Nicely put Pabitra.Apr 17 2013: Thanks Allan! I too have come to like what you say, most often. :)
Apr 17 2013: Certainly it remains falsifiable.. but scientific claims are clearly different than philosophical claims. If there wasnt "constants" in science, building rocket ships and doing surgery would be pretty hard. think about what your saying its not a matter of philosophical debate. Look at all that has come to fruition because of science. Its self-evident that there are absolutes and laws that govern this existence.. Applied science would be irrelavent if everything was always in fluxApr 17 2013: Ok Keith. Give me an applied science based observation of the momentum and position of an electron at any given instant.
Apr 17 2013: That science is a work in progress. i tried telling you already.. matter on the micro-scale behaves differently than on the macro-scale. Much of our lack of understanding of the particle universe lays in the extreme difficulty in studying such phenomena. We have to build billions dollar enormous accelerators to do it ineffiecently. However on the macro-scale we have many laws and absolutes mapped out and understood. How else do you think we can send rockets to mars and achieve great medical knowledge? Not philosophy! A doctor must be certain of his practice... he doesnt remain in your bubble of philosophical doubtApr 17 2013: I tell you how Keith. You can check it. When we send rockets to mars and watch it in monitors, we eat our whole fingernails. You know why? Because we, so certain about science, shit in our pants fearing every second that it will burst into oblivion. Any second.
Doctors are even a worse lot my friend. They perform surgery and say, the operation is successful but the patient died. In other instances, medical doctors, the product of macro level science per excellence, pray. Can you believe it? They pray!
Apr 17 2013: Well its still accomplished bucko! Science is a growing field. I never said we knew everything. Nasa bite its nails and doctors to because they are aware of unaccounted for variable and bad math.. Yes rocket ships have crashed before due to miscalculations. However how many open heart surgeries have successfully been done? Not because of uncertainty but because of a significant body of data and research. Without a significant degree of certainty what has been accomplished the last 100 years would be impossible. Think about it.. would a doctor do a heart transplant if he wasnt at least certain that there was an exact science behind it. yes theres a margin of error but if the laws where constantly changing no body would be confident in applying research to its practical application.Apr 17 2013: Sure. I am feeling sleepy so let's conclude.
Science is a growing field. This exact science is entirely based on statistical success. In last 100 years every day science has separated from micro level science where physics still works. It's not a philosophy anymore.
Apr 17 2013: I still think you have wrong idea but whatever. Micro-level physics is just the least determined science thus far. also Macro-level science has been re-affirmed thousands of times in the areas it is certain of its claims. obviously all fields of study are continually growing. WHen science is Applied in practice its doing so based on proven results.Apr 14 2013: I have. I read the article you posted, and I looked up different uses for magnetic fields in medical practice, some of which have a real basis and some of which are pseudoscientific. What I can dismiss are claims by people that jump to illogical conclusions, citing sources that don't prove what those people are claiming.
Apr 14 2013: Noah,
Is this comment to me? Good job to do your own exploration.
I did not know what, or whom your other comment was addressing, so it helps to put a name on the comment.
Also, it helps to keep the comments in sequence as much as possible. If there is a little red "reply" in the upper right of the comment, you can reply directly to the person. If not, scroll up to the first opportunity to reply.
Apr 15 2013: The brain is a part of a constant reciprocating communicative process with the body. It gets feedback from all over but ultimately the brain is the location where experience occurs.Apr 17 2013: "No Keith, you don't need to say anything again. What would be helpful to any conversation, is for you to be clear regarding what you want to express. "
Read what ive wrote.. how am i not being obvious? im explaining what school children learn in their introductory science classes reguarding the scientific method. Really im coming off frustrated because its like.... what planet are you on? isnt it obvious science is a process of experimentation and claims based on empirical data?
Apr 17 2013: I am on the same planet you are Keith, and I read what you write. I have not EVER argued with you regarding what science is, or is not. Perhaps you are getting lost in your own frustration?
Here is what I wrote to you recently...
"Since you ask Keith....
What is MOST obvious about your comments, in my observation, is your intolerace for other people's thoughts, feelings, ideas, your sarcasm and anger, which simply muddies the water, causing less understanding of what exactly you are trying to express."
If you want people to genuinely listen to you and respectfully engage in conversation, it would be helpful for you to offer the same.
So, again....I have not argued with you regarding what science is, or is not. Why do you want to be disrespectful with your question..."what planet are you on"? Why is that kind of communication necessary for you? What do you gain? What purpose does it serve?Apr 17 2013: Im getting frustrated by repeating my point over and over. Sometimes being direct is the best way to get through to people.. wake them out of their coma haha. I dont mean to offend you if thats what your thinking. WHen i see ridiculous claims i respond accordingly.
Apr 17 2013: If you are frustrated with repeating your point over and over again Keith, don't do it! You are simply frustrating yourself. You don't offend me Keith, you offend yourself. YOUR comments are a reflection of YOU. It doesn't have anything to do with anyone else.Apr 17 2013: thats your subjective opinion. Those who understand my position of defending Real Science may have a different view. Religion is not the biggest threat to science, NO, the biggest threat to science are people who distort it and use it inappropriately. As i have said in response to somebody earlier "i would not adamantly attack someones views on religion or philosophy, but science is worth defending"
Apr 17 2013: Yes Keith, some folks may have a different view indeed......and some maybe the same view:>) YOUR comments are a reflection of YOU, and it doesn't have anything to do with anyone else.
You are arguing with me, and I am not arguing with you. Got that Bucko? I noticed that you like that name for people you converse with, so you must like it for yourself as well:>)Apr 17 2013: "The biggest threat to Science are people who distort it and use it inappropriately"
"Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain"
Sounds like religion to me, Keith.Apr 17 2013: the problem with comments are they are always out of context because the human presence necassary for deciphering context is not here. You may have they wrong idea of my intentions and certainly perception is influenced by subjectivity. Therefore what my comments reflect is more determined on whos reading and how its being processed. You dont have to supply your therapuetics in my conversations with other people. If all human action is driven by motive, whats yours? Some people believe their words and actions arise from a place of reason and altruism when they really are speaking from a self-righteous moral hill-top... not saying thats certainly you, im throwing it out there.. Apart of awareness is understanding that which drives you. Even our apparent friendliness and happy motive may be seeded in the same fear, desire, and ego that spiritual practice is aimed at dissolving.
Apr 17 2013: Keith,
Let me remind you that this thread started with a question from YOU...
"Keith Wessman
7 hours ago: Need i say it again.. Science needs to have proof! at least a way to prove it. Im not against Philosophy.. im against the confusion of the two. Im against Bad Science and miraculous claims made under the pretense of science. WOW! how isnt that obvious? "
My response to you Keith...
"Colleen Steen
6 hours ago: No Keith, you don't need to say anything again. What would be helpful to any conversation, is for you to be clear regarding what you want to express.
Since you ask Keith....
What is MOST obvious about your comments, in my observation, is your intolerace for other people's thoughts, feelings, ideas, your sarcasm and anger, which simply muddies the water, causing less understanding of what exactly you are trying to express."
1.Comments ARE NOT "out of context"......except yours.
2. If you do not want an answer, do not ask the question.
3. YOUR comments are a reflection of YOU and no one else.Apr 17 2013: clearly you didnt process my last message. Take a deep breathe.. and let it go. if somebody says 2 plus 2 equals 5 im not going to accept their viewpoint. Your wrong my comments also reflect the stupidity of many people commenting on this thread. you where being reasonable until you intruded with this life lesson.. others where being "flat- earthers" so i called them on it. With the level of "Science-Denial" that was going on i had to be blunt. what can i say... cry me a river.
Apr 17 2013: Clearly Keith I did indeed process your last message, as well as your previous messages.
YOUR comments reflect YOU my friend:>)Apr 17 2013: Nobody is denying science, least of all me. I happen to love science.
I just deny your particular brand of it.Apr 17 2013: ok Mom
Comment deleted
Apr 15 2013: I think you know what I mean. If not, I'll say it again in a different way: You can't claim something and provide a source that does not back up the claim.Apr 15 2013: If your brain was monitored by MRI and they pricked you or stimulated different parts of your body corresponding regions of your brain would light up. Hey Socrates why dont you read a real science journal. the amazing thing is that real scientists publish all their experiments and data and wait usually before something is considered as true the experiment is replicated many time by many people. For real open up a piece of accepted scientific literature.. you would be surprised. You should try to kick your little folk science thing.. really pathetic, and it upsets me only cause people like yourself mislead other and taint what Science represents. Come on, read the array of garbage you post on this site.
Apr 15 2013: Descending into ad hominem actually devalues any valid wisdom you might have to impart.
Your angry comments are telling me that you are operating on a narrow belief system - a belief that science is the overlord of everything, including human existence and consciousness, which regularly defies logic and is often chaotic.
If you say you have an interest in psychology, then you would know that.
You cannot distil human existence exclusively down to coloured blips on fMRI images and the (as yet not fully researched) role of neurochemicals.
In the field of psychology, you simply have to open your mind up to its behavioural/social aspects of study (both sciences, yet both potentially defying logic) in order to fully comprehend what really does make us tick.Apr 15 2013: When I called you Socrates, yeah, that was sarcasm Bucko. Philosophy is great but it doesnt prove anything. Your Poetic notions although, romantic, are not true. Like i said believe what you want just dont corrupt science or any form of academia with your thought pollution. If you where religious i and everyone could just shrug our shoulders and say "Oh hes just Religious" But No your selling your witchcraft under the pretense of science.. thats what bugs me.Apr 15 2013: The way this comment section works is annoying. Chris, the way I see it, there is no such thing as "materialistic" science. What exactly does "material" mean? If something like spirit energy or ghosts or something could be documented by science as a legitimate phenomenon, it would become the material world, not much different from magnetic fields, dark energy, or whatever. Also, according to string theory, all matter is just a manifestation of energy. So maybe what the universe essentially boils down to is just laws.


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News Detail
Professor Jaroniec is Named Among Top Materials Scientists in WorldPosted Mar. 9, 2011
Chemistry and Biochemistry Professor Mietek Jaroniec was named among the top 100 scientists in the area of materials sceince worldwide. Thomson-Reuters measured impact for researchers by averaging citations from twenty-five publications published since January 2000. Professor Jaroniec's citation impact was more than seven times greater than the average impact of materials science publications.
The full list can be found at http://sciencewatch.com/dr/sci/misc/Top100MatSci2000-10 .
Congratulations Mietek - your research really is Excellence in Action!

subset: commoncrawl


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Efficacy Study of Adalimumab to Treat Interstitial Cystitis
Recruitment status was Active, not recruiting
- Full Text View
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- No Study Results Posted
- Disclaimer
- How to Read a Study Record
The purpose of this study is to evaluate an investigational treatment for interstitial cystitis. Interstitial cystitis is a chronic bladder disease that includes the following symptoms: Urinary frequency during the day,urinary frequency at night, urinary urgency and bladder discomfort relieved by voiding.
Presently, there is no cure for interstitial cystitis. The response to current treatments is poor. Patients with interstitial cystitis have a poorer quality of life. The cause of interstitial cystitis is unknown. This study is evaluating the drug Humira® (adalimumab) for improving the symptoms of patients with interstitial cystitis. Humira® is an injectable anti-inflammatory medication that has been available for use since December 31, 2002. Humira® has been FDA approved for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, ankylosing spondylitis, and Crohn's disease. These diseases have similar characteristics to interstitial cystitis. This study will evaluate an investigational use of Humira® for the treatment of interstitial cystitis.
Interstitial Cystitis
Drug: Adalimumab
Other: inactive drug
Phase 3
|Study Type:
|Study Design:
|Allocation: Randomized
Endpoint Classification: Efficacy Study
Intervention Model: Parallel Assignment
Masking: Double Blind (Subject, Investigator)
Primary Purpose: Treatment
|Official Title:
|An Investigator Initiated, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study Evaluating the Efficacy of Humira® (Adalimumab) For The Treatment of Interstitial Cystitis(IC)
- Improvement of the Baseline O'Leary-Santa Interstitial Cystitis Symptom Index and Problem Index (OSPI) score [ Time Frame: 12 Weeks ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ]
- Improvement of the Baseline Pelvic Pain and Urgency/Frequency patient symptom scale (PUF) score [ Time Frame: 12 Weeks ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ]
- Patient global assessment [ Time Frame: 12 Weeks ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ]
- Physical exam including SQ injection site [ Time Frame: 12 Weeks ] [ Designated as safety issue: Yes ]
- Vital signs [ Time Frame: 14 Weeks ] [ Designated as safety issue: Yes ]
- Adverse events [ Time Frame: 21 Weeks ] [ Designated as safety issue: Yes ]
|Estimated Enrollment:
|Study Start Date:
|March 2011
|Estimated Study Completion Date:
|May 2013
|Estimated Primary Completion Date:
|March 2013 (Final data collection date for primary outcome measure)
|Assigned Interventions
|Experimental: adalimumab
Drug: Adalimumab
80 mg loading dose given subcutaneously followed by 40 mg dose given subcutaneously every two weeks over a twelve week period
Other Name: Humira
|Placebo Comparator: Inactive drug
Other: inactive drug
80 mg loading dose given subcutaneously followed by 40 mg dose given subcutaneously every two weeks over a twelve week period
Other Name: placebo
Detailed Description:
Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a chronic disabling bladder syndrome characterized by urinary frequency, nocturia, urinary urgency, and pain with bladder filling—relieved by emptying. There is no cure for IC and the treatment options are suboptimal. Patients with IC report significant negative effects on their physical and mental quality of life. The etiology of IC is unknown. Certain aspects of IC suggest that autoimmunity may play a role in initiating or sustaining the chronic inflammatory response. Bladder biopsies of patients with IC demonstrate an increase number of mast cells. Mast cell activation with the release of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) may mediate this bladder inflammation. Humira® (adalimumab) is a medication that blocks the effect of TNF. Humira® (adalimumab) is FDA approved for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, ankylosing spondylitis, and Crohn's disease. These diseases are similar to IC. In this study, the hypothesis being tested is that Humira® (adalimumab) will show efficacy at reducing the symptoms of IC.
|Ages Eligible for Study:
|18 Years to 65 Years
|Genders Eligible for Study:
|Accepts Healthy Volunteers:
Inclusion Criteria:
- Males or females ≥18 and ≤ 65 years of age previously diagnosed with Interstitial Cystitis
- Currently have symptoms of urinary urgency, frequency or pain for more than 6 months
- Urinating at least 7 times a day or having some urgency or pain (measured on linear analog scales)
- Must be post-menopausal or surgically sterile or willing to use an adequate form of birth control
- Not pregnant or lactating
- Capable of voiding independently
- Willing to provide informed consent to participate
Exclusion Criteria:
- Have symptoms that are presently relieved on other medications for interstitial cystitis
- Have absence of nocturia
- Have symptoms that are relieved by antimicrobials or antibiotics.
- Have a body mass index (BMI) of >39 kg/m2
- Have uncontrolled hypertension
- Have Type I or type 2 diabetes
- Have active Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection, or who are known carriers (Hepatitis B) at Screening
- Have a positive TB test at screening
- Have had a urinary tract infection for 6 weeks
- Have had bacterial cystitis in previous 3 months
- Have had previous exposure to Humira® (adalimumab)
- Have taken investigational medication within 30 days of screening
- Have any other condition/disease which, in the opinion of the investigator, could compromise subject safety or confound the interpretation of study results
- Are unable or unwilling to comply with protocol requirements
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01295814
|United States, California
|Philip C. Bosch, MD
|Escondido, California, United States, 92025
|Principal Investigator:
|Philip C Bosch, MD
No publications provided by ICStudy, LLC
Additional publications automatically indexed to this study by ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier (NCT Number):
|Responsible Party:
|Philip C. Bosch, M.D., Urologist, ICStudy, LLC
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
|NCT01295814 History of Changes
|Other Study ID Numbers:
|Study First Received:
|February 14, 2011
|Last Updated:
|January 10, 2013
|Health Authority:
|United States: Food and Drug Administration
Keywords provided by ICStudy, LLC:
Interstitial cystitis
Additional relevant MeSH terms:
Cystitis, Interstitial
Urinary Bladder Diseases
Urologic Diseases
Anti-Inflammatory Agents
Antirheumatic Agents
Pharmacologic Actions
Therapeutic Uses
ClinicalTrials.gov processed this record on July 01, 2015


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Home > Squash Racquets > Best Selling Squash Racquets
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Dunlop Apex 110 Squash Racquet
Quantity in Basket: None
Code: DunRacApex110
Price: $74.95 Reg:
Bang for the Buck: $$$$
$25 off for 4th (was $99.95)
Dunlop Apex 110 Squash Racquet Details
Product Specs
Balance: Head Light Headsize: 77.5 in2/500 cm2 Factory Grip: Hydromax Weight: 110g Factory String: Precision String Pattern: 14/18
Description of the Racquet
The Dunlop Apex 110 squash racquet. The Apex 110 is a fantastic lightweight carbon squash racket from Dunlop, styled with a longer 14x18 Powermax string pattern for improved deflection and control. Modeled after the popular Venom 110, the Apex has upgraded HM6 Carbon material in the frame to reducing vibration by up to 10%, offering increased feel and power.
Recommended for the intermediate player and junior players, this Apex 110 squash racquet comes designed with a very lightweight frame, featuring a teardrop head shape with light head balanced properties. The design makes the frame very maneuverable but also very powerful.
Starting in 2013 Dunlop DOES NOT supply a cover with their racquets.
More Information
Need Help Selecting a Racquet? SquashGalaxy Exclusive Racquet Ratings.
If you're unsure about your model or weight...try our DEMO program.
Our favorite Squash wrap grip is the Squash Galaxy Wrap Grip. We've been in the business a long time and always get requests on what our favorite wrap grip is for squash so we went out and made our own! The Squash Galaxy Wrap grip has a smooth and extremely tacky feel and is the appropriate length and size for any squash racquet on the market. It's only $8 to have it installed at the time of purchase.
The Tecnifibre 305 17g string upgrade is recommended because factory string is less playable/durable then the Tecnifibre 305 17g string we suggest.At the time of purchase, the Tecnifibre 305 17g restring upgrade is $21.95. It's normally $36 if you mailed the racquet to us later so you save $14 if you choose the upgrade right away. The tecnifibre will fray before it breaks and that's completely normal so don't worry about it!
If you choose a vibration dampener go with the Silencer (Our favorite), Head Smart Sorb, Head Megasorb, or the BBB (Big Bad Band).
A question we get everyday is "What is Grommet Tape?" It's a piece of tape that goes over the head (bumper) of your racquet. Sometimes you need a restring because of a broken bumper. For an extra buck to add this, it could save you $25-40!!
We recommend an overgrip for players that tend a sweat a lot, want to build up a grip, or wear through wrap grips very often. An overgrip is thinner and wears quicker than re-grips, but can be changed much quicker and easier than a re-grip. We recommend the Wilson Pro Overgrip, but for those looking for the best sweat absorption, durability, and feel... the Overgrip/ Re-grip gives the best combination. Note** when an overgrip is installed, you will not be able to see the re-grip if chose to have it installed.
We get follow up calls/emails everyday thanking us for the upgrades as they really help bring out the performance of the racquet.
COPYRIGHT - SquashGalaxy.com 2014-2015


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|Introduction | Performance overview | RAW noise analysis | Color blindness & sensor quality | Dynamic range and noise source | Conclusion
The Nikon D5000 and the Canon EOS 500D were two main releases for spring 2009. Launched at the same time, and targeting the same market, these two cameras were the perfect subjects to use for an extensive demonstration of the DxOMark Database.
There is a 10-point difference between the two cameras' Sensor Overall Scores. What does it mean? As explained in DxOMark Sensor: The essentials, such a difference corresponds to a sensitivity gap of 2/3 of a stop. But several questions remain open:
Even though the answers to these questions are available on the DxOMark website, we think it useful to provide our readers with a typical case study by showing how we compared the two camera sensors and arrived at the 10-point difference.
To provide photographers with a broader perspective about mobiles, lenses and cameras, here are links to articles, reviews, and analyses of photographic equipment produced by DxOMark, renown websites, magazines or blogs.
With 15 MPix on a 14.0 mm x 18.7 mm sensor in an $800 bridge camera intended for the general public, the appearance of the Canon PowerShot G1X was one of the big events at CES 2012.
Nikon and Canon launched their new top-of-the-line cameras for news and sports photography at the end of 2009. The Nikon D3s replaced the NikonD3, and the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV replaces the Canon EOS 1D Mark III.
New data for the Canon 500D and the Nikon D5000
Read the DxOMark reviews for these new models and a comparison Insight


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Ameriwood is all about Ready-to-Assemble Furniture, and has helped furnish homes across America for over 30 years. Dedicated to style and quality at affordable prices, Ameriwood takes pride in their extensive product line, and they stay true to this commitment with free shipping and the best selection online.
Part of the Dorel Industries family, Ameriwood Industries promises to deliver the best value and cost relationship in the furniture industry. With a specialty in home office and entertainment furniture, Ameriwood has expanded their line to bedroom furniture, garage storage, futons, and even aquarium stands, while still staying dedicated to a commitment for style and quality at affordable prices. Ameriwood Industries has made material choices that reflect a philosophy of offering great value and quality construction, while wasting little, and recycling as much as possible.
With durable and sturdy construction complimented with traditional styles, you will surely find what you are looking for with the broad selection of Ameriwood furniture they offer.
System Build 15" Work Surface
by Ameriwood Industries


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January represents not only the opening of the winter transfer window, but it also signals the start of a negotiating period that enables players to talk to potential suitors for when their contracts run out.
So what bargains are there to be had at the end of the 2012/13 Premier League season? And should some clubs do all they can to keep their current stars at the club? Let us know what you think by leaving a comment below.


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NORTH LIBERTY, Iowa- Several dozen families in North Liberty are cleaning up debris and putting tarps over sections of homes following a storm and high winds Thursday night.
City administrators say two homes in different subdivisions in the northern part of the Johnson County community received heavy damage from straight line winds. Probably three or four dozen other homes had enough damage from lost roof shingles or siding to call insurance adjustors.
One of the most heavily-damaged homes belongs to Iowa City's new Fire Marshall Brian Greer. The family's middle son, Connor, was the only one home at the time the storm blew through. Connor said he looked out into the garage and saw the two overhead doors blowing away. He then shut the door into the home itself and called his mother. She told him to head to the basement.
"I just thought what am I supposed to do and I was worried about the house," Connor Greer said.
The Greer home lost one entire side of the structure to the high winds. A metal canoe inside the garage actually shot through the backyard and took out part of a fence belonging to neighbor Darron Buch. Buch said he went out and grabbed the canoe during the storm so it wouldn't get loose and cause any more damage in the neighborhood.
"I put that (canoe) in a spare garage and knocked on their door in the morning and I said I think I have your canoe in my garage," Buch said.
Greer said several off duty Iowa City firefighters turned out to help him with the cleanup.
Jennifer Montgomery is also someone not usually fazed by bad weatherexcept when it happens to her own home. Montgomery is a volunteer weather spotter with the National Weather Service. But she wasn't home to witness the storm that blew out windows and soaked one of her bedrooms.
"A little too close to home there," Montgomery said adding "If I'd been out chasing that was one thing but when you have your kids with you it's a little too close to home."
Several residents said aside from clean up, it may take time to sort out just what belongs to other people. The wind blew things from yard to yard. Rachel Lode said part of her fence landed in a neighbor's yard. But she got an extra trampoline in return. She didn't know who owned it.
Cedar Rapids, Iowa News, Sports, and Weather
Storm Cleanup Underway in North Liberty
By Dave Franzman, Reporter
Most Popular


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Discover a selection of top forums smash tiesa on the internet. Come to share your passion on forums smash tiesa and meet other fans of smash tiesa. Then, why don't you create your own forum of smash tiesa ?
The forum for the Super Smash Bros Crusade fangame.
free, forum, super, #smash, brothers, crusade, bros, jaklub, dettadeus, mario, link, kirby, pikachu, legend, zelda, pokemon, nintendo, ssbc
Dα♦ is a Mario Kart Wii Competitive Team and Nintendo Gaming Community with the theme of our members showing a tribute to females, the female lifestyle, and femininity. . . no matter their gender.
feminine-themed, gaming, clan, community, dα♦, genders, nintendo, mario, kart, super, #smash, bros., u/3ds, brawl, females, femininity, tribute
The only forum exclusive to Wiimm-Fi players.
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PA Stadium is the home to the upcoming game Project: Axis and the coveted PACL league! Join in on the fun and awesome discussions that are being held by our friendly community!
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The forum for the development team of Project: Smash Bros. X. The forum is split and private, only the devs will be able to see anything of importance.
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Welcome to Hulk Smash Inc!
Offical Base of Bionicle: Showdown and other fan games
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Anything and everything Nintendo. Not really since we're dead.
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Free forum : The Clan for Super Smash Bros. Brawl. The Hollow Brawlers
Competitive SSBB Clan
legendary, #smash, bros, competitive, ssbb, clan


text:
Jan Van Quirm wrote:
As Patrician I don't think he's actually had too many people killed or even executed - I don't think he makes a habit of it.
We don't really know this, because the only people we hear about are the people who are "saved" from death, like Moist. He certainly does execute criminals who deserve to be put to death, since Vimes is self-assured that Carcer will be hanged at the end of "Night Watch."
It is interesting though, that the criminal element of Ankh-Morpork seem a lot more scared of Vimes and the Watch than they are of Vetinari. After all, Vimes once arrested the Patrician!
On the other hand, he does have a habit of throwing mimes into the scorpion pit, which is about as close to execution as you can get, although not necessarily unjustified...
Jeff in Boston


text:
Pronunciation: Hans Bußmeyer
Added on: 2013-01-18 Listened: 1 timesin: composer, classical music
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Only hotels in Valparaiso are listed below. Search for cheap and discounted hotel and motel rates in or near Valparaiso, IN for your personal leisure or group travel. Discover the most favored Valparaiso, Indiana hotel and motel rooms. Browse the Valparaiso area hotels to find the perfect lodging! Please use the provided map of the Valparaiso hotels. Group booking? Search Valparaiso Group Hotel RatesThe Valparaiso center is about 3 miles from Porter County Municipal Airport and 10 miles from Hobart Historical Society.
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Best Buy Fashion #2234
Release Date: 1/1/1978
Product Code: 2234
The long, cute dress had a woven white sleeveless yoke above the long red and white floral skirt. A white vinyl handbag completed this set that coordinated with Barbie® doll's #2220 and #2228 as well as Ken® doll's #2241.
All images and descriptions courtesy of Collector Books, publisher of "Barbie® Doll Fashion: Volume 3" by Sarah Sink Eames.
Production doll may vary from the photo shown above. Mattel reserves the right to modify the fashion/fabrics, sculpt, hair color/style, and accessories. Doll cannot stand alone as shown.
Collector Photos
No one has uploaded any photos.


text:
Adapted from original recipe by Devorah Schecter, Camp Yavneh Meat Chef
10 soft tomatoes4 green peppers2 red peppers2 or 3 hot green peppers10 garlic cloves2 tablespoons sweet paprikaPinch of cayenne to taste1 tsp salt3/4 cup oilTomato paste
Dice peppers into medium to small pieces. Slice spicy peppers into rings and garlic into halves. (I chop the hot peppers into tiny pieces and chop the garlic as well.)
Heat oil. Cut tomatoes into medium to small pieces and add to peppers. Add spices and bring to boil and lower heat. Mix constantly until most of the liquid evaporates. I like to add a bit of tomato paste for color. It also helps to thicken the matbucha.
Taste and adjust any of the seasonings. In Israel, and at camp, Matbucha is used as a dip or as a first course along with hummus, eggplant salad, etc. It can also be used as a shmear for oven baked fish!
Recipes: Appetizers, Vegetarian, Parve, Kosher


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What is Augmented Reality?
You already know what augmented reality is. You just might not know it's called that, and when you've seen it as its best, you probably haven't even noticed it at all.
Put at its simplest, augmented reailty, or AR to its friends, is the art of super-imposing of computer generated content over a live view of the world. It is quite literally the practice of enhancing what's already around us. The most often used example is the one the world is most familiar with and that's television sports analysis. The reality is the footage of the game of football, rugby, cricket or what have you and the augmentations are the arrows of the players' movement and the zonal areas marked out that don't exist on the actual playing surface. For example, the first down line in American football is something that doesn't exist on the real pitch but that the viewer can see nonetheless on the picture beamed over the airwaves and to television screen thanks to the addition of a graphical overlay.
One definition of AR as laid down by Professor Ronald Azuma in his Survey of Augmented Reality paper in 1997, is that it combines the real and the virtual, it's interactive in real-time and that it must register in 3D. Using the example of the first down line, you've got the combination of the computer generated line - the virtual - on top of the real American Football footage; it's present in the real time motion of the game - whether recorded or not - and the graphical line obeys all physical rules of depth as if it existed in the real world. In other words, that it appears underneath the plays feet and behind their legs when they cross it rather than spatially out of sync. It's as if it really is painted on the pitch.
The first down line, of course, represents a very mild level of AR. It's a very small, simple, largely static piece of augmentation and makes up for a tiny per centage of the total view. It's much more reality than virtuality. Nevertheless, according to a second definition by Paul Milgram and Fumio Kishino, it does still exist on a continuum of augmentation which they describe as a line existing between the real world and a totally virtual environment. At the one end would be what you see through your eyes with no device in the way and at the other a completely computer generated world, a virtual reality such as Second Life.
The example of the first down line lies a long way to the left of this scale - just millimetres from the end really - but it's equally possible to have a situation of something you might call augmented virtuality at the corresponding point on the right. By today's standards, anything that fits anywhere on this continuum that isn't right at one of the extremes would be classed as AR.
Now that we're fully versed on what it is we're talking about, let's get practical with a few examples of what AR can do for us and how it works. The key part of AR is that you need to place a layer of virtual information over your view of the real world and, in order to do that, there must be a device in between to display that information upon. There are three main ways of doing that and they all relate to the position these devices occupy.
The first instance is where that display is right up against the eyes of the beholder. These are often referred to as Head-Mounted Displays (HMDs) and will take the form of a visor of some sort or a pair of connected glasses such as those manufactured for consumers by Vuzix. The holy grail of HMDs is contact lens solution and indeed there's plenty of research and development here that will be the subject of other articles in AR Week on Pocket-lint. HMDs are generally a good solution. It leaves the user's hands free and means that their entire visual field can be overlayed with augmentation wherever they turn.
One step away from that are the handheld devices which are most notably these days smartphones but will doubtless include camera-toting tablet computers after the flurry seen at CES and MWC 2011. Either way, there's an advantage here in that these things already exist in quite powerful and convenient forms. The issues, though, are that the user is limited to just a frame, that your hands are tied up and, possibly most problematic of all, is that the more AR is used like this, the greater the chance that people will end up assaulting each other by accident as they spin around with their arms stretched out in front of them or just getting their expensive phones whipped from their grip.
Finally at the other end of the business, and closest to the real world itself, is the method of pasting that computer-generated overlay directly on top of your real environment instead. It's usually done with digital projectors or other devices known in this group as Spatial Displays. The advantages are that the user is required to hold or wear no computer equipment whatsoever and the second key difference is that everyone else can see the AR as well. The downside is that it'll only work on a very specific environment but it's perfect for collaborations like building projects and might even be the future of construction sites. Who needs plans and blueprints when everyone can see where each timber is supposed to go?
There is another slightly different group of devices out there which can be employed for activity specific environments and, in fact, these are what's used for some of the most developed and mature examples of AR around at the moment. These are the Heads-up Displays or HUDs. HUDs are powered and connected transparent view screens with computer graphic LED information displayed over the environment.
Essentially, we're talking about large, fixed, transparent computer screens sat somewhere not to far out in front of the user. The military have been using them for years with screens of fighter jets made just like this and indeed it's where the name HUD comes from. It's a heads-up display because the pilots are able to keep their heads up and looking at the action in front of them rather than having to constantly reference controls and meters on their cockpit panels. They can monitor the speed of other aircraft, compass headings, vectors, wind speed and anything else you could possibly want to know - all by just looking straight ahead. In the next few years, we'll begin to see consumer car windscreens as HUDs but, again, there'll be more on that coming up in AR week.
So, by now you should be thinking that you've pretty much got a handle on what this AR thing is all about and there's even an excellent chance that knew all along anyway. Well done you. But just before we go, spare a little thought for this teaser - does AR have to be all about your eyes?
What about putting a layer of information between your other four senses and the rest of the world? For touch, you could have information sent back to you via haptic feedback, for taste, there could be device mounted on your tongue - as uncomfortable as that might sound - having headphones in your ear is simple enough and there's no reason why there couldn't be similar units for one's nostrils.
So long as the user still has contact and appreciation of the natural world while plugged up with sensors, then there is still the mixing of the real and virtual and that is what AR is all about. A car's increasingly rapid beeps when its bumper gets closer and closer to a static object could be considered AR, the noises of a Geiger counter are a form of AR and, doubtless, someone could invent a small nasal-lining film for hay fever suffers that might emit a strong smell when pollen passes across it.
All the same, for the time being, most of the development and much of the interest of AR lies with the visual mode, largely because it's an excellent medium for getting across more rich information in any one moment, and it's here where much of AR Week will be based. Tune in as we take a closer look at some of the more exciting applications that the future holds.
For more information on what Qualcomm is doing with Augmented Reality please click: http://www.qualcomm.co.uk/products/augmented-reality
And for more on AR Week head over to our AR Week homepage on Pocket-lint


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Questions & Answers
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Get answers from real customers and in-house experts with AnswerBox.
Q:I want to love this shampoo so much, but I have found it's dried up my hair pretty bad!!! Is there any way I can reduce use for better outcome? I want to avoid throwing it out :(Asked on 7/3/2015 by Katie
2 answers
A:I love this shampoo. I am an everyday hair washer but I find it best to
vary the shampoo. I use the Fairly traded honey three times a week, in
between, I use I the stout shampoo and also the sea salt!
My favorite is the Fairly Traded Honey, my very favoriteAnswered on 7/3/2015 by Anonymous
A:Balance this shampoo out with a conditioner! The American Cream would be a great pairing with Fair Trade Honey Shampoo.Answered on 7/3/2015 by Kels from LUSH Direct
Q:I have quite fine and short hair that tends to get weighted down easily, and I get highlights from time to time. I have used daddy-o, but I'm not exactly looking for blonde upkeep, more so something that will keep my hair in good health while occasionally highlighting, and something that will give me a bit of body (and I love the idea of honey shampoo) would this be the right shampoo for me?Asked on 6/17/2015 by Hali
5 answers
A:Yes, this is perfect for you! It's so softening, great for moisturizing, and protecting hair.Answered on 6/19/2015 by Pauline
A:Yes, this is perfect for you! It's so softening, great for moisturizing, and protecting hair.Answered on 6/19/2015 by Pauline
A:Go for it. I wear my hair short from a quarter inch and tapered on the
sides to an inch and a half or so on top. I have very fine, straight hair
and I have been using Fair Trade Honey for over a year. After using this
shampoo once, you will notice an immediate softening of your hair. As an
added bonus you will smell fantastic.Answered on 6/18/2015 by Anonymous
A:I have fine hair, which is colored abd highlihghted and I use the fairly
traded honey shampoo every day. I love it! I feel my hair is really
healthy and also smells great! I strongly recommend this shampoo! It also
gives great body to my hair!Answered on 6/17/2015 by Anonymous
A:I would think so. I love this shampoo as it gives just the right amount of
moisture and leaves hair clean and fluffy.Answered on 6/17/2015 by Anonymous
Q:I'm a black female with locs, and I would like to know if this product will work on may hair.Asked on 1/31/2015 by Renee from Brooklyn, NY
1 answer
A:I recommend checking out Fairly Traded Honey shampoo, as I know several people with dreadlocks who use it because it's very moisturizing and doesn't leave any residue behind. Also check out Big Solid conditioner as a wash out treatment once and a while.Answered on 3/22/2015 by Alexander from LUSH Direct
Q:Because of the honey, will this shampoo lighten brown hair at all?Asked on 1/15/2015 by hobnobber from Colorado
3 answers
A:The honey will add great moisture to your hair, but it shouldn't strip your color away.Answered on 3/21/2015 by Lana from LUSH Direct
A:Not at all! But it will make it edible soft and luscious so watch out around bears!Answered on 1/15/2015 by Anonymous
A:It hasn't lightened my very dark brown hair or my husband's moderately dark
brown hair.Answered on 1/15/2015 by Anonymous
Q:Does this product have an expiration date?Asked on 9/26/2014 by Erica from Wayne, NJ
1 answer
A:Yes, this product does have an expiration date. Our shampoos have a 14 month shelf life, and the expiration date should be listed on a separate round sticker on the product label.Answered on 9/27/2014 by Anonymous
Q:Is this product suitable for kids 2 and 5 years? if not, which product is recommended?Asked on 11/14/2013 by FT
2 answers
A:I'm not a doctor or a chemist, but recommended restrictions on eating honey are usually limited to children under 12 months; perhaps you could extrapolate other applications to this advice. I found the shampoo mild and not overly fragrant. Remember to shake it before every use too. As long as you did a patch test and were with them shampooing their hair, and were careful not to get it in their eyes, I don't see why not.Answered on 11/15/2013 by Anonymous
A:While we don't use ingredients that would be considered "harmful", we always recommend that you check with your physician when using any of our products on young children, since their skin tends to be more sensitive in general.Answered on 11/15/2013 by Kayla from LUSH DIRECT
Q:Is this product sulfate free?Asked on 9/3/2013 by RC
1 answer
A:The Fair Trade Honey shampoo is not sulfate free, it contains Sodium Laureth Sulfate.Answered on 9/20/2013 by Laura C from LUSH Direct
Q:Is this safe to use on color-treated hair?Asked on 5/14/2013 by Starbucks Diva from Dallas, Texas
2 answers
A:We only have one product that has been tested on color treated hair: "Blousey;" however, softer shampoos such as "Fair Trade Honey" tend to be alright! I would recommend staying away from products with a lot of salt, such as "Big," or products with high citrus content--as both salt and citrus naturally strip hair and would wash out the color much quicker.Answered on 9/27/2013 by Kendra M from LUSH Direct
A:YES! Sodium Laureth Sulfate is perfectly safe for color-treated hair. I use Fair Trade Honey all the time, and my hair couldn't be shinier. It also feels cleaner then when I used a "sulfate-free" shampoo.Answered on 6/20/2013 by KP from Harwood, MD
Q:Is this safe for color treated hair? If not, which shampoo would you recommend?Asked on 2/6/2013 by Liz from Boston, MA
1 answer
A:Fair Trade is soft enough for colour treated hair, but it has not been tested on it. We currently only have one shampoo which was designed specifically for use on colour-treated hair, and that is our brand new Blousey shampoo. It's very gentle and super hydrating so it will not pull out the colour as quickly as our other shampoos might. It contains lots of bananas and nourishing butters which will leave your hair extra soft and smooth. You can find it online here: http://www.lushusa.com/Blousey/03739,en_US,pd.htmlAnswered on 8/14/2013 by Anonymous
Q:Is this good for color treated hair?Asked on 11/24/2012 by jeanfrances
2 answers
A:I asked this same question on Facebook and they said it should be gentle enough. This for me made my hair dry. If you are really concerned about it being color safe, go with Blousey it is great.Answered on 2/4/2013 by Dancingbarista89 from Oregon
A:Fair Trade Honey shampoo was created to provide a lot of moisture while gently cleansing the hair, so it should do the trick! If you're looking for a shampoo designed specifically for colour-treated hair, Blousey is your best bet!Answered on 3/12/2013 by Brandy from LUSH
Q:Is this safe for color treated hair?Asked on 11/11/2012 by Lora from Philadelphia
1 answer
A:We only have one product that has been tested on colour treated hair: "Blousey;" however, softer shampoos such as "Fair Trade Honey" tend to be alright! I would recommend staying away from products with a lot of salt, such as "Big," or products with high citrus content--as both salt and citrus naturally strip hair and would wash out the colour much quicker.Answered on 11/22/2012 by Anonymous


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Quarterly Report: 2013, July - September (Q1), Adak
Brice Eningowuk
DCRA Regional Office:
Gov't Type:
Second Class City
Agreement Date:
City of Adak
Assessment Status:
Assessment Date:
Exp Date:
Last Updated:
Community Sanitation Overview:
The City of Adak operates and manages a piped water and wastewater system. The city council is the policy making body for the utility. The surface water is derived from Lake Bonnie Rose, which is located approximately three miles southwest of the core town site. The water utility is operated as a Class A public water system and operates under filtration avoidance; therefore, the only treatment provided is chlorination with required detention for disinfection. Water is treated, stored in four tanks totaling 1.9 million gallons of storage and piped to facilities and housing units. The wastewater treatment system discharges through a marine outfall line to Kuluk Bay. One-hundred percent of homes have complete plumbing. The city collects and deposits refuse at Husky Landfill, the municipal landfill, which is a permitted class III landfill. Bulk fuel is provided by the Adak Petroleum (a subsidiary of the Aleut Corporation), which maintains nine underground tanks with a total capacity of approximately 18 million gallons of marine diesel, gasoline, and jet fuel. Electricity is provided, via diesel generation, by TDX Adak Generating. A feasibility study to provide recommendations for water and wastewater utility downsizing, upgrading, and future utility project planning for the City of Adak was completed in 2004 with two updates, the most recent being in 2011 with the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation: Village Safe Water. The study was contracted to the Anchorage based Bristol Environmental and Engineering Services Corporation. Although the water treatment plant is operating and provides adequate potable water, the City of Adak is attempting to address numerous water and wastewater utility concerns including an aging infrastructure, chronic line loss, and maintaining a water/wastewater utility designed for a large user base. The infrastructure was originally constructed for a military installation with a population of 6,000 that dropped dramatically after the closure of the military base.
RUBA Status & Activities This Qtr:
On July 9, Anchorage RUBA staff finalized the Adak RUBA assessment of management capacity of the city water utility. The Adak Water system is currently meeting all essential indicators. There are three sustainable indicators that have not been met in the area of 'Operation of Utility'. The water utility is on the SNC list for April 2012, the utility does not have an inventory control list nor a critical spare parts list established. The assessment was sent via email to the city , RUBA Program Manager, RUBA supervisor and the VSW Engineer on record on July 10, 2012. A hard copy has also been sent to the city on July 10, 2012.
RUBA Activities for the Coming Qtr:
Anchorage RUBA staff will maintain contact with the City of Adak and provide assistance as requested.
Essential Indicators:
26 of 26
Sustainable Indicators:
25 of 27
Total Score:
51 of 53
Essential Indicators
All revenues and expenses for the utility are listed in the utility budget.
The utility has adopted a balanced realistic budget.
Monthly financial reports are prepared and submitted to the policy making board.
The utility is current in paying all water/wastewater electric bills.
The utility has on hand a year's adequate fuel supply or it has a financial plan to purchase an adequate supply.
The utility is receiving revenues (user fees or other sources) sufficient to cover operating expenses.
Sustainable Indicators
The utility is receiving revenues (user fees or other sources sufficient to cover operating expenses and Repair & Replacement (R) costs.
YTD revenues are at a level equal to or above those budgeted.
YTD expenditures are at a level equal to or below those budgeted.
A monthly manager's report is prepared.
Budget amendments are completed and adopted as necessary.
Finances Comments
The City of Adak adopted the FY13 budget on June 20, 2012. The utility budget anticipates $152,140 in revenues and expenses of $150,783. Transfers from the solid waste, General Funds, and enterprise funds are listed within the budgets as subsidies to the water/wastewater utility. Utility bills from TDX Adak show the city is current with power utility bills. The city receives fuel from the Aleut Enterprise for public facilities on an as needed basis. There is a Water/Wastewater Replacement line item in the Maintenance Reserves in the amount of $20,000. Monthly financial statements were received and show budget vs. actual of all revenue and expenditures for the city and that the city is maintaining the water utility through user fees and subsidy from other funds. The manager provides financial information to the council at council meetings; budget amendments are done as necessary.
Accounting Systems
Essential Indicators
The utility has adopted a collection policy and actively follows it.
The utility bills customers on a regular basis.
An accounts receivable system is in place which tracks customers and reports past due accounts and amounts.
An accounts payable system is in place.
The payroll system correctly calculates payroll and keeps records.
A cash receipt system is in place that records incoming money and how it was spent.
The utility has a cash disbursement system that records how money was spent.
Sustainable Indicators
A chart of accounts is used that identifies categories in a reasonable, usable manner.
Monthly bank reconciliations have been completed for all utility accounts.
The utility has a purchasing system that requires approval prior to purchase, and the approval process compares proposed purchases to budgeted amounts.
Accounting Systems Comments
The collection policy is located in Chapter 4.11 of the City of Adak Code of Ordinances. Water, wastewater, and garbage bills are generated and sent to utility customers at the end of each month. The city utilizes QuickBooks Pro 2012 for the accounts payable, accounts receivable and payroll entries. The cash disbursement and cash receipt system is also entered in QuickBooks and a manual receipt is issued upon payment received. The city also has an accounting firm contracted to handle all payroll tax liabilities along with the QuickBooks entries. The account listing generated from QuickBooks shows all income, expenses, liabilities, assets, accounts receivable/payable, and bank accounts. Monthly bank reconciliations are completed using QuickBooks. There is a purchasing policy in the City of Adak Code of Ordinances, Chapter 4.05.
Tax Problems
Essential Indicators
The utility has a system to accurately calculate, track, and report payroll tax liabilities.
The utility is current on filing tax reports.
The utility is current on making tax deposits.
If there are any past due tax liabilities or recorded tax liens, a lien release has been issued or a repayment agreement has been signed and repayments are current.
Tax Problems Comments
The IRS report dated September 21, 2012 shows that the city is compliant with required federal tax deposits and filing and has no record of a lien. The Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Employment Security Divisions report from September 24, 2012 states that the city is in compliance with state tax filing and deposits and is not on the July-August 2012 Lien Watch.
Personnel System
Essential Indicators
The utility has a posted workers compensation insurance policy in effect.
Sustainable Indicators
The utility has adopted and uses a Personnel Policy, which has been reviewed by an attorney, AML or Commerce for topics and language.
The utility has adequate written job descriptions for all positions.
The utility has adopted and follows a written personnel evaluation process that ties the job description to the evaluation.
The utility has an adequate written hiring process.
The utility has personnel folders on every employee that contain at least: I-9, Job Application and Letter of Acceptance.
The utility has a probationary period for new hires that includes orientation, job training/oversight, and evaluations.
The utility provides training opportunities to staff as needed and available.
Personnel System Comments
The City of Adak has workers compensation with Alaska Municipal League Joint Insurance Association (AMLJIA) from July 1, 2012 to July 1, 2013. Title V in the Adak Code of Ordinances provides the hiring process and a six month probationary period for new city employees. The manager has the authority to appoint, supervise, and remove employees with council approval. The city is working with AMLJIA to update the personnel policies. The manager has all employee folders with I-9s, applications and letters of acceptance filed in a fireproof locked cabinet within the city office. Training is offered to employees; due to the cost of travel, this is not always available. The city manager is working on updating job descriptions and the evaluation process with AMLJIA.
Organizational Management
Essential Indicators
The entity that owns the utility is known; the entity that will operate the utility is set.
The policy making body is active in policy making of the utility.
The policy making body enforces utility policy.
The utility has an adequately trained manager.
The utility has an adequately trained bookkeeper.
The utility has an adequately trained operator or operators.
The utility has adopted the necessary ordinances (or rules and regulations) necessary to give it the authority to operate.
Sustainable Indicators
The utility has adopted an organizational chart that reflects the current structure.
The policy making body meets as required.
The utility complies with the open meeting act for all meetings.
Organizational Management Comments
The city owns the utility and updates the ordinances and operates under the Adak Code of Ordinances, Title 2, Chapter 25: Adak Utilities. The council directs employees to enforce the policies and ordinances. The utility manager is the city manager. The city has a public works foreman that oversees the water operator. The public works staff (water operator) updates the city manager almost daily. The operator is certified in small water systems treated due to expire on December 31, 2013. The city currently has a bookkeeper, who is planning to move off island in July 2012. The city has posted the position and will begin the hiring process once the posting has closed. The city has an organizational chart which is shown in the United States Department of Agriculture business plan. The council meets the first and third Wednesday of each month and posts meeting notices for the public.
Operation of Utility
Essential Indicators
The utility operator(s) are actively working towards necessary certification.
The utility has a preventative maintenance plan developed for the existing sanitation facilities.
Sustainable Indicators
The manager receives a monthly O&M report from the utility operator and routinely "spot checks" the facilities to see that the maintenance items are being completed.
The utility has a safety manual and holds safety meetings.
Utility facilities have not suffered any major problems/outages due to management issues that are unresolved.
The utility is operating at the level of service that was proposed.
The operator provides status reports to the manager on a routine basis.
The utility has completed and distributed its "Consumer Confidence Report".
The utility is not on the "Significant Non-Complier" (SNC) list.
The utility maintains an inventory control list.
The utility maintains a critical spare parts list.
Operation of Utility Comments
The water operator is certified in Small Water Systems Treated, due to expire on December 31, 2013. No major incidents have occurred with the utility. There is possible line loss as there are areas within the service area that have connections to vacant and unusable housing. The utility provides updates to the manager on an as needed basis. The water system is not on the July 2012 SNC list. The city manager is working on finalizing a critical spare parts and inventory lists as these are in draft form. The Navy left behind an excess amount of parts but these are currently not organized and need to be inventoried.
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Considering both direct and indirect valuation methods helps quantify sustainability's value and the impact it makes for shareholders.
Measuring sustainability's value can pose a systematic and universal challenge. The cost of business sustainability initiatives, like most investments, are readily apparent, but some of their indirect benefits are difficult to quantify.
PwC believes that the shareholder value framework can be expanded - using either direct or indirect valuation methods - to accommodate the difficult-to-quantify benefits of environmental sustainability initiatives. Sustainability valuation: An oxymoron? describes both approaches, which can be used to understand and quantify shareholder value created by sustainable business practices and other corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Explore: Sustainable Business Solutions
Sustainability Valuation Services


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APP OF THE DAY: PhotoToaster review (iPhone/iPad)
There are lots of photography apps around including the phenomenally popular Hipstamatic, as well as a few other gems like Shakeit and Colour Splash. We've even rounded up some of the best iPhone photography apps and the best Android photography apps here on Pocket-lint. If you've tried all of those and you're after something a little different then why not check out the new kid on the block - PhotoToaster.
PhotoToaster (iPhone/iPad)
- Format
- iOS 4 or later
- Price
- £1.19
- Where
- iTunes
Like many other photo apps, PhotoToaster enables you to apply lots of different effects to your snaps, making them look like vintage photos if you choose. You can crop your photos using three different frame formats (square, vertical rectangle or horizontal rectangle).
A comprehensive range of presets (split into basic, deluxe and supreme) will let you change the appearance of your snaps. There are plenty of options on offer including coloured filters, along with retro effects to make your pictures look like polaroids, lomo snaps or vintage sepia prints. Sticking to the presets keeps things simple, but if you want a bit more control then you can use the presets for each separate category (lighting, fx, vignettes and borders) or take things further and dive right into the individual slider controls, where you can tweak the settings manually.
The nifty bit is when the effects are applied, the result is live so that you can see what your snap will look like in less than a second. If you don't like it, you can either "undo" what you've just done or select a different effect.
When you're done you can either save the image to your picture gallery or send it via email or SMS or post it to facebook and tumblr. This is a great little app that offers plenty of flexibility so it's well worth a look if you like taking snaps on your iPhone (or your iPad).