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An ongoing loss of cardiomyocytes to apoptotic and necrotic cell death pathways contributes to the progressive nature of heart failure. The pathophysiological origins of necrotic cell loss relate to the neurohormonal activation that accompanies acute and chronic stressor states and which includes effector hormones of the adrenergic nervous system. Fifty years ago, Albrecht Fleckenstein and coworkers hypothesized the hyperadrenergic state, which accompanies such stressors, causes cardiomyocyte necrosis based on catecholamine-initiated excessive intracellular Ca2+ accumulation (EICA), and mitochondrial Ca2+ overloading in particular, in which the ensuing dysfunction and structural degeneration of these organelles leads to necrosis. In recent years, two downstream factors have been identified which, together with EICA, constitute a signal–transducer–effector pathway: (i) mitochondria-based induction of oxidative stress, in which the rate of reactive oxygen metabolite generation exceeds their rate of detoxification by endogenous antioxidant defences; and (ii) the opening of the mitochondrial inner membrane permeability transition pore (mPTP) followed by organellar swelling and degeneration. The pathogenesis of stress-related cardiomyopathy syndromes is likely related to this pathway. Other factors which can account for cytotoxicity in stressor states include: hypokalaemia; ionized hypocalcaemia and hypomagnesaemia with resultant elevations in parathyroid hormone serving as a potent mediator of EICA; and hypozincaemia with hyposelenaemia, which compromise antioxidant defences. Herein, we revisit the Fleckenstein hypothesis of EICA in leading to cardiomyocyte necrosis and the central role played by mitochondria.
An ongoing loss of cardiomyocytes via apoptotic and necrotic cell death pathways contributes to the progressive nature of heart failure. As depicted in Figure 1, apoptotic cells are rapidly scavenged by macrophages; they neither disintegrate nor lose their contents to stimulate the immune system. As a result, serum troponin levels are not elevated and a wound healing response is not invoked.1–3 Dying necrotic cells, on the other hand, release troponins and other intracellular contents, which serve as danger signals to the immune system and chemoattractants that promote invasion of inflammatory cells to the site of injury. These cells, together with myofibroblasts, account for subsequent tissue repair. Foci of microscopic scarring are the final outcome. Hence, elevations in serum troponins and cardiac fibrosis are each footprints of cardiomyocyte necrosis. Scattered foci of fibrosis are found throughout both ventricles of the explanted failing human heart and are considered the major component of the pathological structural remodelling of myocardium.4 This would not only implicate the importance of cardiomyocyte necrosis, but would also suggest it to be an ongoing process. The loss of cardiomyocytes and their replacement with stiff fibrillar collagen each contribute to the progressive failure of this muscular pump. Elevations in serum troponins are found in patients hospitalized because of their congestive heart failure (CHF) and are associated with an increased risk of morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular events.5–14 In ambulatory asymptomatic elderly men, followed for 11 years in a community in Sweden, the appearance of elevated serum troponin predicted an increased risk of heart failure.15 Factors other than overt ischaemia with a segment of infarcted myocardium can account for cardiomyocyte necrosis (vide infra). An understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms involved becomes essential to the optimal evaluation and management of these patients. Towards this end, the origins of the CHF syndrome provide crucial insights.
Congestive heart failure has its origins rooted in inappropriate neurohormonal activation. This includes the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis (HPA), the adrenergic nervous (ANS), and renin–angiotensin–aldosterone (RAAS) systems. Their effector hormones are cytotoxic to cardiomyocytes.16–18 Some 50 years ago, Albrecht Fleckenstein and coworkers at the University of Freiburg im Breisgau hypothesized that hyperadrenergic state which accompanies stressor states, such as CHF, would lead to catecholamine-mediated excessive intracellular Ca2+ accumulation (EICA), particularly involving cardiac mitochondria. The ensuing dysfunction of Ca2+ overloaded mitochondria, coupled with the diminished synthesis of high-energy phosphate and structural degeneration of these organelles, would lead to cardiomyocyte necrosis. They validated their hypothesis using isoproterenol-induced cardiac injury in rodents in which cotreatment with a calcium-channel blocker, verapamil, proved cardioprotective.19,20 Later, others confirmed this paradigm and provided further insights into the adverse consequences of elevated plasma epinephrine levels (5000 pg/mL) comparable with those found in man during acute and chronic stressor states.18,21–24 Today, the importance of catecholamine excess that accompanies marked emotional stress or acute stressor states, such as head trauma or subarachnoid haemorrhage, is now recognized as leading to stress-related cardiomyopathy syndromes (e.g. apical ballooning or Takotsubo cardiomyopathy).25
In recent years, two other factors, together with EICA, were identified to be major participants in a signal–transducer–effector pathway to cardiomyocyte necrosis during acute or chronic hyperadrenergic states (see Figure 2). This includes the genesis of oxidative stress, where the rate of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species generation overwhelms their rate of elimination by endogenous antioxidant defences, invoked in response to EICA. Second, the role of the mitochondrial inner membrane permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening which leads to organellar dysfunction, osmotic swelling, and ultimate structural degeneration of these organelles. Other pathophysiological responses that accompany catecholamine excess and which extend beyond the importance of Ca2+ overloading can also be cytotoxic. They cannot be overlooked and include a dyshomeostasis of essential cations which are manifested as hypokalaemia, ionized hypomagnesaemia and hypocalcaemia, hypozincaemia, and hyposelenaemia. Herein, we introduce and highlight this broader perspective of cation dyshomeostasis in revisiting the Fleckenstein hypothesis and cardiomyocyte necrosis.
Acute stressor states are broadly referred to as representing acute bodily injury in one form or another. For example, they include: acute myocardial infarction; major cardiac or noncardiac surgery; thermal or electrical burns; head or musculoskeletal trauma; and subarachnoid haemorrhage or intracerebral bleed. An acute systemic inflammatory response invoked by sepsis or diabetic ketoacidosis is another example. Acute stressor states are inextricably linked to neurohormonal activation involving the HPA axis as well as the ANS and RAAS, and whose effector hormones are integral to acute stressor state-mediated homeostatic responses. Catecholamines, parathyroid hormone (PTH), angiotensin II, and endothelin-1 account for homeostasis gone awry to beget dyshomeostasis at cellular and molecular levels involving the heart and systemic organs. This includes a dyshomeostasis of mono- and divalent cations. At the time of or shortly after hospital admission, a dyshomeostasis of a whole host of electrolytes and trace elements are manifested contemporaneously in critically ill patients (Figure 3). These effector hormones orchestrate the concordant appearance of hypokalaemia, ionized hypocalcaemia and hypomagnesaemia, hypozincaemia and hyposelenaemia. The shift in electrolytes from blood to soft tissues accounts for ionized hypocalcaemia and hypomagnesaemia which will invoke secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) with the parathyroid glands' elaboration of the calcitropic PTH (Figure 4) seeking to restore the homeostasis of these circulating divalent cations through bone mineral resorption. Intracellular cation shifts, particularly catecholamine- and PTH-mediated EICA, converge on mitochondria to induce oxidative stress and raise the opening potential of their inner membrane mPTP (Figure 2). The ensuing loss of intracellular cationic homeostasis and diminished ATP synthesis, together with osmotic swelling of mitochondria, lead to organellar degeneration. Cardiomyocyte necrosis follows with the leakage of troponins ultimately appearing in the circulation as biomarkers confirmatory of necrosis.
Catecholamines promote hypokalaemia. Struthers et al.26–28 administered intravenous epinephrine to normal human volunteers and demonstrated a prompt and marked fall in serum K+ of 0.8 ± 0.19 mEq/L (from 4.0 to 3.2 mEq/L) which was prevented by a β2-adrenergic receptor blocker. A simultaneous fall in serum Mg2+ and Ca2+ also occurred. In patients with acute bodily injury accompanied by haemorrhagic shock, endogenous plasma catecholamines are markedly elevated to promote arteriolar vasoconstriction and in so doing raise fallen arterial pressure. When these levels are further elevated by pharmacological doses of exogenous norepinephrine, epinephrine, or dopamine, given to further raise blood pressure from shock levels, the reductions in serum K+ (<3.0 mEq/dL) and Mg2+ (<1.5 mg/dL) can be more profound and lead to serious atrial and malignant ventricular arrhythmias.29
The underlying K+ balance prior to bodily injury determines the severity of the ensuing hypokalaemia during an acute stressor state. Pretreatment of normal volunteers with a thiazide diuretic predisposed them to marked hypokalaemia in response to epinephrine infusion.30 Spironolactone (Spiro), an aldosterone antagonist, was protective against hypokalaemia in this setting.31 Patients with arterial hypertension or CHF who are receiving long-term thiazide or loop diuretic treatment, respectively, may have marginal K+ and Mg2+ reservoirs, which are then further compromised by a hyperadrenergic state that accompanies bodily injury or acute myocardial infarction leading quickly to marked hypokalaemia and hypomagnesaemia with consequent QTc prolongation and a greater propensity for arrhythmias. Inhaled albuterol can likewise predispose to hypokalaemia and hypomagnesaemia in normal volunteers and those receiving diuretics.27 Chronic excessive use of β2 receptor agonists also lead to marked hypokalaemia and arrhythmias and injury to the heart and skeletal muscle.32 Drug-induced prolongation of myocardial repolarization, as reflected in the lengthening of the QTc interval of the electrocardiogram, usually accompany certain antibiotics, antidepressants, and antipsychotics.33,34 Prolongation of the QTc interval enhances the risk of polymorphic ventricular tachycardia, also known as torsades de pointes. Risk factors for drug-related QTc prolongation include hypokalaemia, sympathomimetics, and the concomitant administration of several of these agents.35 Furthermore, hypokalaemia has been associated with cardiomyocyte necrosis and resultant cardiac pathology.36
Dietary Mg2+ deficiency can cause cardiovascular lesions that eventuate in heart failure.37,38 Elevations in plasma catecholamines associated with an acute stressor state are accompanied by hypomagnesaemia which is related to a cyclic AMP-mediated rise in intracellular Mg2+, together with increased lipolysis and Mg2+ binding to free fatty acids.39 Hypomagnesaemia is common in critically ill children and adults with such predisposing risk factors as hypokalaemia, hypocalcaemia, thiazide and loop diuretics, and sepsis. The hypomagnesaemia prevalent on admission in critically ill patients may worsen during prolonged hospital stay due to ongoing excretory losses and reduced Mg2+ intake.40–42 Moreover, atrial and ventricular arrhythmias appear when hypomagnesaemia is of moderate to marked severity (<1.70 mg/dL).43–45
Contemporaneous hypokalaemia and hypomagnesaemia are common in critically ill patients. The interactions of K+ and Mg2+ are multifactorial and complex, including the importance of Mg2+ deficiency that interferes with K+ retention.46 The ability to successfully correct hypokalaemia mandates the simultaneous reversal of hypomagnesaemia.47–49 The cell membrane's Na+/K+-ATPase pump maintains the crucial electrochemical K+ gradient between high-intracellular K+ concentration with lower K+ concentration of the extracellular compartment (see Figure 5). Activated by Mg2+ this pump requires ATP as its energy source and hence Mg2+ participates in maintaining intracellular K+, which falters during Mg2+ deficiency with suboptimal amounts of K+ pumped into cells. As a result, Mg2+ deficiency contemporaneously begets K+ deficiency. Digoxin, a Na+/K+ ATPase inhibitor, can worsen this dyshomeostasis by limiting renal tubular reabsorption of Mg2+ and thereby raising urinary Mg2+ excretion which exacerbates hypomagnesaemia and further predisposes to arrhythmias in this setting.50 In order to resolve hypokalaemia, the Mg2+ deficiency must first or simultaneously be restored. In the absence of gastrointestinal losses or diuretic and digoxin usage, hypomagnesaemia and hypokalaemia due to impaired renal tubular reabsorption, in the form of urinary K+ and Mg2+ wasting, must be considered. Inheritable renal tubular disorders, such as the Gitelman syndrome in adults and Bartter syndrome in children, should be addressed when prompt resolution of these cations using oral Mg2+ and K+ supplements proves difficult to achieve.51 Regular serum electrolyte measurements should be augmented with serial ECG monitoring of the QTc interval, a useful biomarker of intracellular K+ and Mg2+ levels. QTc prolongation (>460 ms) demonstrates their deficiency while its normalization serves to address the adequacy of their cellular replacement. The attainment of QTc of <460 ms with these supplements may require several additional days compared with the relatively rapid return of their normal serum levels.
Reductions in plasma ionized [Ca2+]o are commonly found in the emergency department and intensive care units in patients having an acute stressor state with elevated plasma catecholamines (Figure 4). The fall in [Ca2+]o correlates with the severity of the hyperadrenergic state and, in turn, the severity of illness. Ionized hypocalcaemia serves as an in-hospital predictor of survival.52–61 Hypoalbuminaemia can contribute to reduced total Ca2+ concentration. In response to hypocalcaemia, the Ca2+-sensing receptor of the parathyroid glands provokes stimulated secretion of PTH. The ensuing SHPT seeks to restore extracellular Ca2+ homeostasis by promoting the resorption of bone Ca2+ and increased Ca2+ absorption from the gut and kidneys. When hypocalcaemia is associated with hypomagnesaemia, PTH secretion may be impaired but can be rapidly resolved by reversing hypomagnesaemia.
The appearance of acute ionized hypocalcaemia in critically ill patients is caused by a shift in Ca2+ from the circulating pool to the intracellular compartment of various tissues, including the heart and skeletal muscle. This cation shift occurs in response to catecholamine-induced intracellular Ca2+ overloading followed by PTH-mediated excessive Ca2+ entry (Figure 4). Thus, catecholamine- and PTH-facilitated intracellular Ca2+ overloading of cardiomyocytes, in keeping with the Fleckenstein hypothesis, converge into mitochondrial Ca2+ overloading and is coupled to the induction of oxidative stress. The ensuing necrotic death of cardiomyocytes is followed by tissue repair and a consequent replacement fibrosis. Such scarring preserves the structural integrity of the myocardium. However, this structural remodelling has adverse consequences. These include compromised myocardial stiffness and ventricular function which collectively serve as substrate for reentrant arrhythmia.
The catecholamine-induced disintegration of necrotic cardiomyocytes is accompanied by the release of troponins, an intracellular enzyme that plays a crucial role in revealing myocardial injury (Figure 2). Catecholamine-induced cardiomyocyte necrosis with increased plasma troponin levels occur in critically ill patients, including those having sepsis, haemorrhagic shock, subarachnoid haemorrhage, trauma, gastrointestinal bleeding, or pulmonary embolus.62–65 The levels to which plasma troponins rise in such patients, however, do not reach the more marked elevations seen with the segmental loss of infarcted myocardium that accompanies an acute reductions in coronary blood flow due to a thrombosed coronary artery.
Hypozincaemia appears in critically ill patients, including those having an acute myocardial infarction66–73 where it persists during much of the first week and then slowly recovers.74,75 It also appears during week 1 following major trauma and is related to excessive urinary excretion and fluid losses, reduced Zn2+ intake and preferential redistribution of Zn2+ to injured tissues.76 Tissue Zn2+ contributes to antioxidant defences, and are integral to wound healing.77–79 Hypozincaemia is frequently associated with hyposelenaemia.77,80,81
Hyposelenaemia has been identified on admission in patients with an acute myocardial infarction, where it correlates with the rise in serum troponin levels.82 In critically ill patients having the systemic inflammatory response syndrome, hyposelenaemia is accompanied by reduced plasma Se-glutathione peroxidase (GSHPx) activity.83 Since thyroid hormone is a selenoprotein, thyroid function can be compromised with hyposelenaemia.
The complex dyshomeostasis of electrolytes and trace elements that occurs with acute stressor states has broad and diverse pathophysiological sequelae, including cardiomyocyte necrosis. To minimize adverse cardiovascular consequences during hyperadrenergic states, systematic and serial surveillance of serum K+, Mg2+, and Ca2+ is warranted. Complementary protective measures should include QTc interval monitoring with serial ECG, a biomarker of myocardial repolarization. Prolonged QTc, due to reduced intracellular K+ and Mg2+ or to drug therapy, raises the vulnerability of the heart to atrial and/or ventricular arrhythmias. The maintenance of serum K+ and Mg2+ within the strictly defined narrow physiological threshold (i.e. K+ ≥4.0 mEq/L and Mg2+ ≥2.0 mg/dL) will inevitably prove most effective in preventing arrhythmias. An awareness of hypozincaemia and hyposelenaemia also broadens our clinical perspective on the acute stressor state paradigm to include their deleterious impacts on the compromised efficiency of metalloenzyme-based antioxidant defences to combat oxidative stress.
Chronic stressor states include: a failure of the heart, kidneys, lungs, or liver, irrespective of aetiological origins; and chronic inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease. We now focus on the chronic neurohormonal activation involving the HPA axis, ANS, and RAAS which are integral pathophysiological features of CHF, and which occurs irrespective of its aetiological origins or patient age. Elevated plasma levels of cortisol, renin activity, angiotensin II, aldosterone, epinephrine, norepinephrine, and endothelin–1 are each found in CHF.84–88
Renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system activation in patients with systolic or diastolic heart failure leads to a salt-avid state with Na+ and water retention that eventuates in the appearance of symptoms and signs of the CHF syndrome. Urinary and faecal excretion of K+ and Mg2+ are increased during CHF based on the endocrine-mediated actions of circulating aldosterone acting at these sites, where high-density aldosterone receptor binding occurs. The loss of these cations is accentuated by loop diuretics commonly used in the management of CHF.47,89 Chronic hypomagnesaemia is frequently associated with hypokalaemia and hypocalcaemia and portends an adverse prognosis.90 Loop as well as thiazide diuretics promote excessive urinary loss of K+ and Mg2+ that can lead to both hypokalaemia and hypomagnesaemia. Combining either of these diuretics with Spiro preserves K+ and Mg2+ homeostasis,30 provided renal function is not markedly impaired (serum creatinine <2.0 mg/dL) and K+ supplements are discontinued.
The importance of hypokalaemia on patient mortality has been well documented. The Digitalis Investigative Group (DIG) trial database involving more than 7700 patients revealed that in ambulatory patients having either systolic or diastolic heart failure, serum K+ <4.0 mEq/L and Mg2+ <2.0 mg/dL were associated with increased mortality.91,92 The same was true in patients with heart failure having associated chronic kidney disease.93 This database also revealed the adverse impact of loop diuretics on death, cardiovascular mortality, and heart failure-related hospitalization in ambulatory patients, including the elderly.94,95 This raises the prospect that prolonged routine use of a potent loop diuretic, in the absence of symptoms and signs of salt avidity, can be quite deleterious and should be discontinued and milder diuretics implemented, if necessary, in salt-sensitive patients.96 However, the loop diuretic can be reinstituted, if and when the patient is again avidly and persistently retaining Na+ and water.
In the Study of Left Ventricular Dysfunction (SOLVD) trial with a cohort of more than 6700 patients, such adverse events were not seen with potassium-sparing diuretics, such as Spiro, amiloride, or triamterene. Indeed, these agents may be associated with reduced risk of all-cause mortality or death from or hospitalization for progressive heart failure.97–99 Spiro, an aldosterone receptor antagonist, conserves both K+ and Mg2+. In the Randomized Aldactone Evaluation (RALES) trial the efficacy and safety of Spiro, when combined with an ACE-Inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker and a loop diuretic, was demonstrated and included a 30% risk reduction for all-cause and cardiovascular-related mortality and sudden cardiac death and cardiovascular morbidities.99
The secondary aldosteronism of CHF in man leads to increased faecal and urinary Ca2+ excretion and consequent ionized hypocalcaemia and, in turn, SHPT with elevated plasma PTH levels.80,100–103 As noted earlier, dyshomeostasis of divalent cations frequently occurs in patients hospitalized with decompensated biventricular failure having a dilated cardiomyopathy. Elevated plasma PTH levels and SHPT are also found in patients with pulmonary hypertension or obstructive airway disease,104,105 in which RAAS activation with secondary aldosteronism is expected due to reduced systemic blood flow that includes renal perfusion. This hormonal profile is found in patients with primary aldosteronism,106–109 where aberrations in serum ionized and total Ca2+, together with elevated PTH, are normalized by either Spiro or adrenal surgery.108,109 Furthermore, elevated PTH is a known stimulus to adrenal aldosterone production and can further account for elevated plasma aldosterone levels. In patients with primary hyperparathyroidism, preoperative PTH levels in excess of 100 ng/mL are independent predictors of abnormally elevated plasma aldosterone levels.110 The impact of chronic aldosteronism on the increased incidence of adverse cardiovascular outcomes in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism remains uncertain.111 However, experimental findings congruently point towards the importance of PTH-mediated intracellular Ca2+ overloading and induction of oxidative stress as major pathogenic events accounting for adverse myocardial remodelling, as contrasted to elevations in circulating aldosterone, per se.112–114
Abnormal elevations in serum PTH (>65 pg/mL), a calcitropic hormone and mediator of EICA in cardiomyocytes and mitochondria,112,115,116 are found in patients hospitalized with decompensated heart failure and those awaiting cardiac transplantation.100,103,117,118 In outpatients having heart failure, elevated serum PTH levels are also identified and serve as an independent predictor of CHF and the need for hospitalization.119–121 Plasma PTH levels were shown to be an independent risk factor for mortality and cardiovascular events in patients undergoing coronary angiography in Austria,122 and increased risk for cardiovascular mortality and the risk of heart failure were predicted in a community-based cohort of elderly men followed longitudinally for 8 years or more in Sweden.123,124 We found SHPT to be especially prevalent in African-Americans (AA) with protracted decompensated biventricular failure, where chronic elevations in plasma aldosterone account for symptoms and signs of CHF.103 Secondary hyperparathyroidism is also related to the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D in AA with CHF.103 The increased melanin content of darker skin in AA serves as a natural sunscreen. Accordingly, the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D, often of marked severity (<10 ng/mL), compromises Ca2+ homeostasis predisposing AA to hypocalcaemia and consequent SHPT.103,125,126 Vitamin D deficiency is also common in Caucasians and Asians with heart failure.119,127–129
Other factors which may be associated with compromised Ca2+ stores and contribute to the appearance of SHPT, especially in AA with CHF, include: reduced dietary Ca2+ intake because of lactose intolerance and an active avoidance of dairy products rich in Ca2+130; and a preference for a high-Na+ diet that enhances urinary Ca2+ excretion. A high-salt diet and consequential hypercalciuria is well known for predisposing patients to ionized hypocalcaemia and SHPT with resorption of bone which is invoked to restore extracellular Ca2+ homeostasis. Over time, osteopenia and osteoporosis appear as an adverse outcome to SHPT invoked by the hypercalciuria of long-term dietary Na+ excess further predisposing to atraumatic bone fractures.131,132 Patients with heart failure have reduced bone density, which is related to SHPT and vitamin D deficiency coupled with reduced physical activity that may be a cofactor of their effort intolerance due to symptomatic failure.100,117,133–137 The risk of such fractures is increased in elderly patients with heart failure,138 where SHPT may be contributory, and which appears to be preventable when Spiro is combined with today's standard of care.139
Elevations in serum troponins, biomarkers of cardiomyocyte necrosis, but not due to acute MI or renal failure, are found in patients hospitalized because of their decompensated heart failure and are associated with increased in-hospital and overall cardiac mortality.5–14 The role of intracellular Ca2+ overloading and oxidative stress, induced by neurohormonal activation that includes calcitropic hormones, catecholamines and PTH, in promoting myocardial cell loss in these patients is not absolutely clear, but must be explored. An ongoing loss of cardiomyocytes contributes to the progressive nature of heart failure.
In addition to hypokalaemia, ionized hypocalcaemia and hypomagnesaemia that accompany increased urinary and faecal losses of these divalent cations with the aldosteronism of CHF, there also is a concomitant dyshomeostasis of Zn2+ with hypozincaemia.81,140 Furthermore, urinary Zn2+ excretion is increased in response to angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin receptor antagonist, commonly prescribed agents in the management of patients with CHF and where hypozincaemia is associated with abnormalities in taste (or dysgeusia).141,142 Serum Zn2+ and Se2+ levels are reduced in AA patients.80,102 This includes those with decompensated failure and compensated failure, as well as with heart disease but without heart failure. Interactions between Zn2+ and Se2+ have been reported.143 Underlying causes for the simultaneous deficiencies of these divalent cations in AA, including inadequate dietary intake, are presently uncertain.
The prooxidant effect representing intracellular Ca2+ overloading that accompanies elevations in either plasma catecholamines or PTH is intrinsically coupled to Zn2+ entry acting as an antioxidant.115,116,144,145 Although less robust, Zn2+ entry is known to occur via L-type Ca2+ channels whereas more substantive amounts ingress by Zn2+ transporters activated by oxidative stress. The release of inactive Zn2+ bound to metallothionein-1 contributes to increased cytosolic-free levels of Zn2+, which can also be achieved by a ZnSO4 supplement or Zn2+ ionophore.145,146 These cumulative salutary observations raise the therapeutic prospect that cation-containing nutriceuticals capable of favourably influencing extra- and intracellular Ca2+ and Zn2+ equilibrium, which is pivotal to combating oxidative injury and promoting repair, could attenuate or even prevent cardiomyocyte necrosis and myocardial scarring.
Selenium is a cofactor of antioxidant selenoenzymes, such as GSH-Px and thioredoxin reductase, that promote optimal antioxidant/oxidant balance.147 Monitoring serum Se levels, Se-dependent enzymatic activities, and Se-GSH-Px mRNA expression are clinically useful in addressing optimal Se supplementation.148,149 Appearance of a dilated cardiomyopathy in greater abundance has been reported in general populations, in which dietary Se2+ deficiencies are found, such as in the Se-poor soil of the Keysan Province of China, or when parenteral nutrition was inadvertently deficient in Zn and/or Se.150–152 The selenium-deficiency-induced cardiomyopathy is often reversible with Se2+ replacement.153
Thus, neurohormonal activation that accompanies CHF is comparable with acute stressor states (Table 1). Together with the adverse impact of loop diuretics, there is a concerted and contemporaneous complex dyshomeostasis of K+, Mg2+, and Ca2+ associated with adverse pathophysiological consequences. Compromised Ca2+ stores related to excretory losses and/or altered dietary intake, together with vitamin D deficiency, predispose to SHPT with compromised cardiomyocyte survival and impaired skeletal health.
Taken together, the multitude of evidence gathered to date congruently supports the Fleckenstein hypothesis which invokes catecholamine- and PTH-mediated intracellular Ca2+ overloading as the most tenable mechanism leading to the induction of oxidative stress, where ROS and RNS, primarily derived from mitochondria in cardiomyocytes and membrane-bound NADPH oxidase in vascular tissue, overwhelm cellular antioxidant defences. This scenario anticipates the question whether ensuing adverse consequences are the result of an excessive generation of prooxidants or due to compromised endogenous antioxidant defences, or both. Zn2+ supplementation, serving as antioxidant, has shown promise in enhancing antioxidant defences in experimental animals receiving aldosterone/salt treatment or having streptozocin-induced diabetes.115,145,146,154 A polynutrient supplement, however, which includes these cations and vitamin D, at a minimum, will likely be necessary. Promising results with a polynutrient supplement have been reported in critically ill patients, including those with heart failure.155–159
Acute and chronic stressor states are each accompanied by neurohormonal activation that includes the ANS. As Fleckenstein and coworkers originally envisaged, the hyperadrenergic state is accompanied by cardiomyocyte Ca2+ overloading, particularly involving their mitochondria, with resultant dysfunction and disintegration of the organelles and ensuing necrotic cell death. More recent studies have identified subsarcolemmal mitochondria-based induction of oxidative stress and opening of their inner membrane mPTP as other major components of the pathophysiological signal–transducer–effector pathway to cardiomyocyte necrosis which eventuates in the release of troponins causing elevated serum troponins and a consequent wound healing response leading to scattered foci of microscopic scarring. Fibrosis is a major component to the adverse structural remodelling of failing myocardium and whose ongoing appearance accounts for the progressive failure of this normally efficient muscular pump.
Furthermore, neurohormonal activation, including HPA axis, ANS and RAAS, and their effector hormones, orchestrate the concordant appearance of hypokalaemia, ionized hypocalcaemia and hypomagnesaemia, hypozincaemia and hyposelenaemia, and is based on the coordinated translocation of cations to injured tissues. Intracellular cation shifts adaptively regulate the equilibrium between prooxidants and antioxidants, a critical determinant of cardiomyocyte survival. The intrinsically coupled dyshomeostasis of Ca2+ and Zn2+, representing prooxidant and antioxidant, respectively, can be uncoupled in favour of increased intracellular-free Zn2+ and antioxidant defences. In so doing, cardiomyocytes that are on the brink of necrotic death can be rescued. The use of nutriceuticals to achieve these lofty goals ought to be considered as complementary to today's standard of care using pharmaceuticals alone.
This work was supported, in part, by National Institutes of Health grants [R01-HL73043 and R01–HL90867] to KTW. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the NIH. Authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose.
Conflict of interest: none declared.
PubMed Central Canada is a service of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) working in partnership with the National Research Council's national science library in cooperation with the National Center for Biotechnology Information at the U.S. National Library of Medicine(NCBI/NLM). It includes content provided to the PubMed Central International archive by participating publishers.


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Mauve Trailer (2015)
23 October 2015 31 mins
Estela is an eight year old girl who has her first approach to mortality through the death of her best friend during a car accident. Estela will face these mortality related situations in a very peculiar manner while she discovers herself in the way.
Watch the official Mauve 2015 trailer in HD below or find more Mauve videos on Vidimovie.

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Top 8 paid iPhone apps on sale for absolutely free today
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Are you using Siri with MacOS Sierra? Here we look at the top 10 Siri Uses on Mac. Read emails Apart from find your emails,Siri will also read them to… Read more »


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Remote Guestbook
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In the wild Horseshoe crabs feed on a number of worms, mullusks and seaweed. They will also eat bits of fish and shrimp that fall to the bottom.
They dig around in the sand and mud to find whatever they can to eat. Basically they are scavengers.
If you are keeping horseshoe crabs in an aquarium, you can feed your horseshoe crab bits of clams, worms, brine shrimp as well as any type of sea food as long as the pieces are small enough for the size horseshoe crab that you have.
Just let the food fall to the bottom and the horseshoe crab will scavenge for them.
One of the problems with keeping a horseshoe crab is making sure that there is enough for them to eat. One of the most common reasons for a horseshoe crab dieing in captivity is starvation.
Another point to keep in mind when keeping horseshoe crabs is make sure you have a sandy bottom for the horseshoe crab to sift through as it's feeding.
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Charlotte's Web Vintage Dolls and Collectibles
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A Little Vintage Shop Specializing in Dolls, Toys and Headvases


text: Hendrik Sattler <email@example.com> writes: > I'll try to hack one up next week (however: never done that before). > Especially, I am missing the Compose-Key. I have an xmodmap entry for it: keycode 0x75 = Multi_key (Use xev to find the keycode. I'm not sure where the keysym semantics are documented, though.) It should obviously be included in whatever drives the console keyboard. I had intended to investigate that but never got round to it. > Altogether, the documentation for X kbd and keyboard driver absolutely > suck :-( Cruel but fair.


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Credit and Blame are at the Heart of Career Success
About the Book:
For better or for worse, the dynamics of credit and blame are at the heart of every team and organization and make or break every career. Unfortunately, credit and blame are rarely assigned in an objective or fair manner, and individual psychology, team dynamics, and corporate culture all influence, and are influenced by, how credit and blame are given and received. Too often, people and organizations get caught up in "the blame game" and the wrong people get blamed for the wrong reasons at the wrong time. The result can be that people are demotivated and demoralized, focus more on organizational politics than on getting the job done, and are too afraid to speak up or experiment with new approaches.
In this book, we consider academic research and theory, as well as real world examples, that illuminate how human evolution, our own life histories, and our personalities impact how we assign credit and blame to ourselves and others, as well as how we react to the credit and blame we receive from others. Credit and blame are also at the heart of workplace relationships, and are critical in determining how teams will develop and interact with each other. We'll explore the situations in which we can all be susceptible to "the blame game" and will present recommendations for how we can win in our careers by refusing to play. By taking a more mindful approach to credit and blame, individuals, teams and organizations can overcome the "blame game" and successfully adapt to new challenges instead of remaining stuck in the past.
Author: Ben Dattner, Ph.D. is an organizational psychologist, and the founder of Dattner Consulting, a workplace consulting firm based in New York City. He has helped a wide variety of corporate and non-profit organizations sort through their credit and blame issues to become more successful. Ben is an Adjunct Professor at New York University, where he teaches Organizational Development in the Industrial and Organizational Psychology MA Program in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. He has also taught Strategic Career Management in the Executive MBA Program at Stern Business School. Ben received a BA in Psychology from Harvard College, and an MA and Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from New York University, where he was a MacCracken Fellow and his doctoral dissertation analyzed the relationship between narcissism and fairness in the workplace. Ben's master's thesis examined the impact of trust on negotiation.
For more information visit: Credit and Blame


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Catch Me If You Can is a musical based on the true story of Frank Abignale in the 1960's. You may have seen the movie version starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks.
The Centennial Musical Theatre Program has a long proud history of providing top notch art entertainment and we hope you will support us by coming out to watch another amazing production.
Order tickets online by clicking on the following link:
Students can also order tickets, paying with cash or cheque, here at school in the alcove.
For more information please visit the Centennial Theatre website:


text:
Carphone Warehouse has placed its biggest ever order for any BlackBerry phone with the imminent Curve 8520, Mobile understands. The pay as you go device is due to hit Carphone's shelves on Monday (17 August) and is expected to sell in high volumes due to its low £130 price tag. Carphone has a three week exclusive on the violet colour variant, while the device will also be available in black. One Carphone staffer told Mobile: 'We're going to be giving it a big push and we're expecting strong sales from it. It could sell like the LG Cookie, as it's a phone with a price tag that's surprisingly low.' The BlackBerry Curve 8520 offers a full QWERTY keypad, Wi-Fi, two-megapixel camera and memory expandable up to 16GB.
Mobile Industry Awards 2017 - B2B & Distribution Finalists
Mobile Industry Awards 2017 – Retail Finalists announced
Mobile Industry Awards 2017 - Best Ruggedised Device
Nazish Dossa Joins Brighstar as UK Managing Director.
Get your FREE copy of Mobile's e-zine and stay up to speed on your PC, laptop or
Get your FREE e-zine
Huawei - 'Our 2017 focus is premium products'
Retail Special
S6 to re-ignite the market
Brightstar 20:20 and HTC join forces
Meeting the challenge of in-building coverage


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The sleigh ride travels through the fields and forest of our 153 acre farm in the quiet Adirondack Foothills town of Greenfield Center NY, just 7 miles from downtown Saratoga Springs and less than 20 minutes from four Northway Exits, 13N, 15, 16 or 17S and 30 minutes from Lake George.
Come and enjoy an approximate 45 minute journey through the fields and forest of our 153 acre farm. By reservation only.
Whether you're out with your sweetie or the whole family you'll enjoy a steaming mug of hot cider by a warm fire or inside our heated lookout room.
$300/hr. for larger groups.


text:
Welcome to MPGH, enjoy your time.
And good luck wit the hacking
Hey to everyone who will be reading this.
I present my self, im GlowingStone (actually i have many names, lol, like so many of ya out there ).
I'm a 16 years old (ya, i know i'm young, but a [real] weed smoker isn't like every person, so you'll find out that i'm not a kid.) boy, with a f'ckin' bad life since he moved city.. Weed smoker for ever, HARD BASS, psy-trance,reggae lover, and computer fanatic since born.
I live in the south of france, but was born in north of the US.
So now, let's start about my presence on MPGH, and my future on here. I started to register, 'cuz i wanted to be a uber op player to fight cheaters on AVA since i started playing 4years ago, and now they are so many op guns users and cheaters, that even a old player (i can't deny i was a gigantic pro on this game..)
Now i want to learn C++, to start programming hacks and so much stuff for different uses. This takes time and skills, wich i have both. I wanna release free hacks for people but also make some special things. Help people that needs it..Etc..
Who know, maybe in a year i'll be famous over here ^_^
So this is the story of GlowingStone, the weed smoker
Good day, good programming, good hacking and good gaming!
Welcome to MPGH, enjoy your time.
And good luck wit the hacking
Contributor 01.27.2012 - N/A
Donator 07-17-2012 - Current
Editor/Manager 12-16-12 - N/A
Minion 01-10-2013 - 07.17.13
Former Staff 09-20-2012 - 01-10-2013 / 07-17-2013 - Current
Cocksucker 20-04-2013 - N/A
Welcome to MPGH
Show us your skillsss
Minion+ : February 2014 - January 2015
Counter Strike: Global Offensive Minion : November 2014 - January 2015
Alliance of Valiant Arms Minion : August 2014 - January 2015
Need For Speed World Minion : January 2014 - January 2015
Rust Minion : January 2014 - January 2015
Call of Duty Minion : January 2013 - January 2015
Editor : December 2012 - April 2013
Donator : March 2014 - Current
Member : October 2010 - Current
Previously known as "Isaakske".
welcome to MPGH
List of Middleman Impersonations
Current Middlemen
Report a Scammer here
Member Since: 5 December 2011
Crossfire Minion Since: 19 Febuary 2013 - 24 October 2014
Minecraft Minion Since: 4 Febuary 2014 - 24 October 2014
BattleOn Minion Since: 26 August 2014 - 24 October 2014
Donator Since: 12 March 2014
Welcome to MPGH.
Crossfire Minion: 28 October 2010Official Middleman: 20 September 2012Trusted Member: 15 February 2013
Official Middleman: 11 April 2013
Official Middleman: 10 January 2015---------------------------------------------------
Global Moderator: 25 December 2012
Head Administrator: 21 March 2013
Welcome to MPGH
Resource Team: Feb/5/2012 - May/5/2012Middleman: April/25/2012 - September/16/12
Welcome to MPGH
good luck
Welcome to MPGH.
Thank you everyone!
I'm currently starting to learn C++, so in a few months i think i'll start programming small things
Just wondered, you only use C++? 'Cuz i heard of people using Java, python or even C#..


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The Geneva® combines an elegant Swiss-inspired design with innovative delivery and rear access doors to create a mailbox that will enhance the décor of any home. The Geneva features a large-capacity, locking door that ensures parcels remain secure, and features a locking rear access door that, when mounted curbside, prevents the need to enter the street to retrieve mail. Accented with beautifully intricate cast scrolls, this mailbox is constructed of die cast aluminum and galvanized steel and is fully powder-coated prior to assembly to prevent corrosion and withstand the harshest weather conditions.
The Geneva Mailbox can be mounted on almost any mailbox post, but we also sell the post designed to match the mailbox.
The round post with the decorative base comes in all four Geneva Mailbox colors. It's a 3" round post with a separate decorative post base cover.
What Color Mailbox?:
Click to Choose Color
Add Mailbox Post?:
No Mailbox Post
Add Decorative Post ($149)
You can add
House Numbers to the front door and/or the sides of the mailbox.
House Numbers on which sides?:
No Numbers Requested
One Side (add $10.00)
Two Sides (add $15.00)
Three Sides (add $20.00)
If you requested House Numbers, please fill in the exact
number you want in the corresponding
box below.
House Number :
What Color Lettering:
No Lettering Requested
House numbers are mailed separately with easy peel N stick instructions.
Black Geneva Mailbox


text:
GraphicRiver White Flowers Banners 3832972
Stock Vector \ Decorative \ Backgrounds
Banner \ Vector \ Editable \ Birthday \ Congratulation \ Element \ Elegant \ Design
Stock Vector - White Flowers Banners 3832972 by MiraBavutti @ GraphicRiver
Stock Vector \ Decorative \ Backgrounds
Set of three banners with white flowers.
- 1 Vector EPS10 file fully editable, with a group for each banner
- 1 Vector AI file fully editable, with a group for each banner
- 1 JPG image 4000×4000px @300dpi, set of three
- 3 PNG image 4000px width @300dpi, one for each banner
Layered: No; Graphics Files Included: Transparent PNG, JPG Image, Vector EPS, AI Illustrator; Minimum Adobe CS Version: CS.
Four Easter Cards; Paper Heart; Retro Heart; White Flowers; Paper and White Flowers; Header Button; Monsters.
Keywords: abstract, background, banner, beautiful, beauty, birth, birthday, card, congratulation, design, elegant, element, floral, flower, frame, greeting, greetings, header, illustration, invitation, nature, ornate, paper, party, postcard, romantic, silhouette, wallpaper, wedding, white.


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ATEX is an intrinsic safety standard that applies to rugged Tablet PCs. To keep workers safe in potentially hazardous environments, the European Union implemented the ATEX regulations (Explosive Atmosphere). Devices that are certified to these regulations do not ignite potentially explosive atmospheres.
Environments that may require ATEX certification include:
Some rugged Tablet PCs include an ATEX certification that allows them to be used in certain hazardous environments. There are various certification levels under the ATEX regulations, so you will need to carefully check to see if the following devices meet your requirements.
ATEX certified devices must carry a sticker that indicates the certification for the device. The following devices are ATEX certified. Check the device description to see what certification level applies.
Need advice on the best ATEX Certified Tablet PC to suit your requirements?
Feel free to enquire online or call 1300 110 101 to talk to our experienced Tablet PC team.
Tablet PC specialise in project and industry applications.
Call us on 1300 110 101 or fill in the form below to talk about your project requirements.


text:
Publisher Square Enix released new images for their upcoming JRPG Final Fantasy XV today, showcasing new glimpses of guns and "machinery" weapons that will be featured in the game.
Sniping mode will be available depending on the gun being used. On the weapons side, a circular saw can cause a lot of damage by spinning at high speeds and comes packing with an Attract Wave option offering two modes - the first shooting out a shock wave, and the second attracting enemies close before obliterating them. All of the screenshots can be found below:
Final Fantasy XV releases worldwide for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One on November 29.


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Matsya University BCom 1st Year Result 2017 RRBMUNIV Alwar BCom Part 1st Result परिणाम
Matsya university BCom 1st Year Result 2017, RRB Matsya University Alwar has declared Bachelor of Commerce 1st year result for all private & regular students who appear in the annual written examination. Students check updates regularly regarding rrbmuniv BCom first year result, Matsya Alwar university BCom first year result for private & regular students. Candidates… Read More »


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Giants vs. Rockies - 7/6/16 MLB Pick, Odds, and Prediction
Colorado Rockies (38-45) at San Francisco Giants (53-33)
MLB Baseball: Wednesday, July 6, 2016 at 10:15 pm (AT&T Park)
J De La Rosa (5-5) (5.98) vs. J Cueto (12-1) (2.58)
The Line: San Francisco Giants -210 / Colorado Rockies +194 --- Over/Under: 7 See the Latest Odds
The Colorado Rockies and San Francisco Giants play a rubber game late Wednesday night.
The Colorado Rockies look for back-to-back wins for the first time this month. The Rockies have allowed 10 runs in their last three games and four or more runs in 10 of their last 12 games. The Colorado Rockies have an ERA of 5.11 and have lost five straight games when allowing more than three runs. Offensively, Carlos Gonzalez leads Colorado with 100 hits, Nolan Arenado has 69 RBI and Charlie Blackmon has 12 home runs. Jorge De La Rosa gets the nod, and he's 5-5 with a 5.98 ERA and 53 strikeouts this season. De La Rosa is 11-6 with a 3.85 ERA and 121 strikeouts in his career against the Giants.
USA TODAY Sports
The San Francisco Giants look for consistency after splitting their last 12 games. The Giants have scored 11 runs in their last three games and five or more runs in 10 of their last 15 games. The San Francisco Giants offense has been swinging well, and they've won 13 of their last 15 games when scoring more than three runs. Brandon Belt leads San Francisco with 87 hits, Buster Posey has 40 RBI and Brandon Crawford has eight home runs. Johnny Cueto takes the hill, and he's 12-1 with a 2.57 ERA and 107 strikeouts this season. Cueto is 5-2 with a 2.35 ERA and 51 strikeouts in his career against the Rockies.
The Rockies are 2-5 in their last 7 Wednesday games and 5-2 in De La Rosas last 7 starts with 4 days of rest. The Giants are 13-3 in their last 16 during game 3 of a series and 15-2 in Cuetos last 17 starts. The Rockies are 2-5 in De La Rosas last 7 road starts vs. Giants.
I have a hard time seeing the struggling Rockies beating Madison Bumgarner and Cueto in back-to-back games. The Giants have been automatic with Cueto on the hill and you have to like your chances of that keeping up.


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And people wonder why the police do what they do!! Dumb ass people!!
That's pathetic. Police officer doesn't want to "dye" but these two gentlemen apparently do want to "DIE". How stupid.
Glen Jones
Thats the worst ive ever seen u wanna be pranksters hope ya get shot man
Then these fucks want to cause riots and kill police officers for their own wrong doings. Fuck #blacklivesmatters. #policelivesmatter. If my life is threatened I call 911, not the hood. Ghetto fucks who don't appreciate life don't deserve life. Enough said.
That's how ya get shot!!!
Thomas Raistrick
Saamiyah Badaloo
Is that funny?
Erica B. Guerra wana dye?
Mason Moore
They wonder why they get shot by mistake. Idiots !
Love the police.
Jordan Harwood
Rama Mohan
Wala tupa!!!!!! Wala nagd aw
Wtf ! Wrong with this people ?
That's not funny that's just dumb
Shannon Baxter
Not funny, think about it ffs
Stupid! !!!!!
Stupid black people.


text:
What does cubby mean?
Definitions for cubbyˈkʌb i
Here are all the possible meanings and translations of the word cubby.
Princeton's WordNet
cubby, cubbyhole, snuggery, snug(noun)
a small secluded room
A small, confined space.
Origin: From cub "stall". Cognate with cagibi.
Webster Dictionary
alt. of Cubbyhole
Cubby is a smartphone-enabled service that affords bag-carrying city travelers information on the whereabouts of the closest participating Cubby partner. Cubby™s custom native smartphone application is designed to geo-locate the closest Cubby partner, facilitate a booking, and assist in the financial transaction. If you must…we're the "Airbnb of coat/bag checks".
Chaldean Numerology
The numerical value of cubby in Chaldean Numerology is: 5
Pythagorean Numerology
The numerical value of cubby in Pythagorean Numerology is: 8
Images & Illustrations of cubby
Translations for cubby
From our Multilingual Translation Dictionary
Get even more translations for cubby »
Find a translation for the cubby definition in other languages:
Select another language:
Discuss these cubby definitions with the community:
Word of the Day
Would you like us to send you a FREE new word definition delivered to your inbox daily?
Use the citation below to add this definition to your bibliography:
"cubby." Definitions.net. STANDS4 LLC, 2017. Web. 23 Nov. 2017. <http://www.definitions.net/definition/cubby>.


text:
Martinez Hotels
Hotel bookings and reviews
Hotels in Martinez
Hotel Ratings and Locations
Complimentary SuperStart Breakfast. Free parking. Located only 30 minutes from San Francisco. Minut...
It's always a great time to visit the fabulous Martinez hotel in sunny California, where fine dining...
Televisions are equipped with premium cable/satellite channels. Bathrooms offer shower/tub combinati...
+44 1273 728862
Your reference is:
Top Hotels in Martinez


text:
I joined this challenge as I seriously need to kick up my reading a notch! I have a TBR list of 35 books or so.. plus minus more or less increasing every day!!
The Rules
My Goals - To read all these books!
To enter all the Mini-Challenges
Reach high, for stars lie hidden in your soul. Dream deep, for every dream precedes the goal ~ Mother Teresa
Blogger, Reviewer, Writer, Photographer, Traveller
The Rules
My Goals - To read all these books!
To enter all the Mini-Challenges
Ugh! I need to get this up ! Dang it the second I think I am ahead LOL We can do this though :)ReplyDelete
Yes we can! *Cheers* I was ahead but all of a sudden I am just on time!!Delete
Nice list, Chene! I hope you'll enjoy all the books you have planned to read.
Good luck on your challenge :)
Lexxie @ (un)Conventional Bookviews
Thank you Lexxie :) Good luck to you as well! I will check out your list too :)Delete
Good luck with your books! I think this is going to be a fun challenge. :)ReplyDelete
Thanks Pamela! I am seriously trying to work through my review list so that I can reward myself so I can read The Mortal Instruments *Sigh* soon <3Delete
Good luck with the challenge, those looks like some great books!ReplyDelete
Thank you Stormi! You have some great books as well :)Delete
What a great list! I hope you can get to them all!!!
Can't wait to read your reviews :)
Happy Reading
Michelle@Because reading is better than real life
Thanks Michelle :) All the best hosting this awesome challenge :)Delete
That's quite a list - I love the mermaids I'm seeing and I haven't read that Keri Arthur book yet, but she is a favorite of mine. Enjoy an I can't wait for the reviews :-)ReplyDelete
Tee hee I know it's quite an overwhelming list... I loved Keri Arthur's Nikki & Michael series! So i hope her writing is just as good here :) I also love magical mermaid books <3Delete
So many mermaid books to enjoy. Good luck on the challenge. I look forward to seeing what you think of your choices.ReplyDelete
Indeed! I did not even realise how many Mermaid books there were until I posted this! I must be going through a mermaid reading phase :)Delete
~ Hearing from you makes me Happy ~
Thank you for taking the time to read my post. I appreciate all comments & read every one of them. I also make sure to visit your site as well if you have one.
Note: only a member of this blog may post a comment.


text: I have been a supporter of the Neuhaus Center since its founding. As the mother and grandmother of dyslecic children I understand the importance of its mission and I belive that it is fullfilling that mission admirably. It not only trains teachers to teach children with learning differences but it raises the awareness of learning differences. Thank you to the Neuhaus Center.


text:
New Delhi, Sep 4: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said teachers play a big role in students' life and added that being a teacher is not like any other career.
"Being a teacher is not like any other career. It is something different. I bow to all the teachers. It is the teachers who make the generations," he said a day ahead of the Teachers' Day.
He said "a teacher can never retire" and added they have a great responsibility towards shaping the future of children.
Modi said: "...you have seen (late former president A.P.J. Abdul) Kalam. He always wanted to be remembered as a teacher," he said.
"We pay tributes to (late president) Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan and mark his birthday as Teachers' Day," Modi said at a programme held here at Manekshaw centre.
The prime minister said: "Leadership quality is essential. You must also be clear why you want to be a leader: to fight elections only or to make a difference."


text:
To contact us please phone 0131 536 1070 between 8.30am and 4pm.
If you would like to speak to a member of the nursing or medical team
please phone between 9am and 12.30 and choose option three. If the line
is busy please choose option one and someone will redirect your call.
The phone is often less busy in the afternoon and evening.


text:
Page 3 of 4
In Ontario, a burgeoning land-based wind initiative has resulted in improved air quality and reduced need for coal-fired electricity. But the province's commitment to green energy stalled when developers started eyeing the shoreline. In February, Ontario placed an indefinite moratorium on offshore wind development, including several projects that would have placed 715 turbines in Lake Erie.
The halt, even if temporary, may be enough to help Cleveland get its offshore wind industry off the ground here first.
"What seems to have happened was a decision was made to develop offshore wind very high up," Wagner says. "When most of the population of Ontario heard about it, they read it in the newspaper. No one ever came to talk to them.
"The other thing is, they wanted to put turbines a mile and a half offshore, so they were in your face."
He believes the situation up north will be sorted out — and offshore development will resume — after Ontario's October elections.
"They will have fewer turbines farther off shore, and they will have conversations with the public," Wagner says. "And once they get going, they're going to move so fast it will make your head spin."
John Wilkinson, Ontario's minister of the environment, indicates otherwise.
"We still have more questions than answers," he tells Scene. "And that is the driving force behind our decision to not move ahead with offshore wind development at this point."
Because offshore wind in fresh water is at such an early stage of development, Wilkinson says, Ontario will monitor research from Cleveland's pilot project and the wind farm in Sweden. This will help Ontario identify whether additional environmental safeguards are needed before the province moves forward.
In Michigan, pending legislation would prohibit using state-owned waters for turbine construction, wind energy transmission lines — even the placement of wind recording devices. Although no offshore wind development is planned in Lake Erie off the small swath of Michigan that lies between Toledo and Detroit, large projects were slated for Lake Michigan until the populace shot them down.
"Current public opinion in our area shows strong support for the ban on industrializing the Great Lakes," says Michigan Representative Ray Franz. Their reasons are numerous: disturbing fisheries and bird migration, navigational hazards for boaters, aesthetics, the high cost of wind energy, and unknown environmental impacts.
"Disturbing the bottom lands of the lakes that have not been disturbed for thousands of years could create a very negative impact," Franz says.
Wagner understands the Michigan problem. "They wanted to put [500-plus] turbines three miles off the nicest beaches of Lake Michigan," he says. "As much as I love offshore wind, I wouldn't want it if those were the beaches I went to. There was a firestorm."
Wagner adds that Michigan, like Canada, has expressed interest in watching how LEEDCo proceeds. He considers that a compliment and a handy advantage.
"Our leadership position is critical here," he says. "While we may only have a small project, we will have the lion's share of the ability to do it. We want them to hire our surveyors and geotech people."
If the LEEDCo project is delayed, New York may present some competition. The state plans to start by putting up to 166 turbines in Lake Erie, but construction won't begin before 2014.
Public outcry hasn't made the kind of dent in the New York project that it has in Ontario and Michigan. County lawmakers there have signed petitions opposing Lake Erie development, citing environmental concerns and negative impacts on tourism and recreation. But these are mere opinions, with no power to stop the state's plans.
"Initially, the power authority said they would consider the wishes of the communities, but it doesn't look like that is happening," says a spokeswoman for Erie County legislator Lynne Dixon.
Unlike in other regions, Wagner says LEEDCo is doing things the right way: starting with just five turbines, so that any unexpected environmental effects can be addressed before more are built. Community meetings, designed to hear residents' concerns at every step, seem to be panning out. Local opposition to LEEDCo's vision, he says, has been all but nonexistent.
"The community as a whole is very supportive of the offshore wind project," says Stefanie Penn Spear, founder and executive director of the local sustainability-promoting group Ecowatch.
"The exciting part of this project is that in addition to generating power from renewable sources, the companies and LEEDCo are very supportive in getting businesses to move to our region to create green jobs," she says.
Ecowatch supports offshore wind — as long as every turbine is sited properly. "When you talk about the future impact of the many proposed wind turbine projects on Lake Erie, my mind goes to all the issues impacting the lake from coal-fired power plants," Spear says. "And they are significant: acid rain, mercury levels. We've got to find a better way to power Ohio. Natural gas is not the silver bullet, because [hydraulic fracturing] to get it creates problems."
Showing 1-10 of 10
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text:
This sheer, multi-tasking oil provides immediate benefits to skin and hair. The lightweight, quick-penetrating blend of 10 natural oils infuses skin and hair with intensive moisture plus potent antioxidants, essential nutrients and fatty acids for a healthy, improved appearance. Organic Moringa Seed Oil provides anti-aging and firming benefits, while a powerful combination of antioxidant-rich Argan Oil, Organic Marula Seed and Grape Seed oils helps reinforce skin's natural defenses, soothe redness, and restore elasticity and suppleness.
- Smoothes hair, improves shine and reduces frizz.
- Provides hydrating and soothing benefits when used as a pre-shave oil.
- Relieves irritation, dryness and flakiness.
- Can be used as a grooming aid for facial hair.
- Suitable for all skin types.


text:
We tested two pairs of Gossamer Gear Lightrek poles in a wide variety of settings and by having many fellow hikers try them out. All were amazed by their comfort and amazingly light weight.
At just over 2 ounces per pole, the Gossamer Gear Lightrek poles virtually disappear in your hands. These are the lightest trekking poles on the market, weighing just a fraction of what the lightest collapsible models weigh. The Lightrek poles are also extremely simple – small, comfortable grips without straps, one-section carbon fiber shafts, and Leki-style carbide tips with a trekking basket. They are quite flexible, especially in the longer lengths, and can't be abused. However, they are stiff enough for on-trail hiking and do an excellent job of absorbing trail vibration. If you're looking for the lightest, most efficient poles, these cannot be beat.
In Brief
- EXTREMELY LIGHTWEIGHT- only 2.3 ounces (62 g) in a 125 cm length – you hardly notice you're carrying them!
- Very flexible, especially in the longer lengths, but stiff enough for on-trail hiking and snowshoeing
- Absorb trail vibration very well
- Fixed-length, non-collapsible
- Comfortable small grips – no straps
- Not the most durable poles – not the best bag for bigger hikers or off-trail hiking
- Our favorite trekking poles!
• Trekking Pole Type
|Fixed length, non-collapsible
• Shaft Material
|Carbon fiber
• Tips
|Carbide flextip
• Grips
• Weight (without baskets)
• Pole Length
|Fixed – 105 cm to 135 cm (41-53 in) lengths available in 5 cm (2 in) increments
• Model Year
Usable Features and Ease of Use
The Gossamer Gear Lightrek poles are extremely simple – they consist of straight carbon shafts, EVA foam grips, and Leki-style tips (with trekking baskets). No compression/locking system, no wrist straps, no angled grips, no ice axe attachments – and none of the weight that goes with them. As you have already noticed, the weight of the Gossamer Gear poles is their greatest asset. The question, is if the compromises made in features are worth it.
First, these are not collapsible poles. While some people adjust their poles often, we rarely readjust poles for climbing, descending, or traversing, instead leaving the poles at the best overall length. When using collapsible poles, we do compress them occasionally when they need to be stashed (for brushy conditions, using an ice axe or umbrella, etc.) and in these instances, we missed the Lightrek's lack of compactability. On the other hand, we did not miss locking mechanisms that may slip or the added weight of collapsible poles. In the end, we found that a fixed length was wonderful in its simplicity and we rarely missed the collapsible option.
With a little bit of creativity, the Gossamer Gear Lightrek poles worked fine with every shelter we had on hand. Shown here with the Bozeman Mountain Works Stealth 0 LITE and the GoLite Trig 2.
|Shelter (pole length needed)
|Usable with this shelter?
|Six Moon Designs Europa 2 (41 in/104 cm)
|depends on shaft length,about 100-110 cm
|Golite Trig 2 (48 in/123 cm)
|depends on shaft length, about 120-130 cm
|MSR Missing Link (54 in/137 cm)
|depends on shaft length, about 130-140 cm
Trekking poles are also often used to support shelters and, depending on pole length, the Lightrek poles can work with a variety of shelters as well. Both the 110 and 125-centimeter poles worked in our floorless Tarptent Squall, a Gossamer Gear Spinnshelter, and various tarp configurations. The 125-centimeter length poles were fine as tent poles for a Six Moon Designs Europa 2 and a Golite Trig 2. When a shelter required a different length, we could get creative by adding a small wrap of duct tape around the shaft and using a clove hitch or elevating the pole a bit with a rock or stick placed underneath. We usually found that setting the poles at an angle effectively lowered the pole height and digging a small hole also worked. However, there are definitely times that you will find the fixed height limiting; we would not be able to use the 110 or 125 length poles with an MSR Missing Link and all lengths are too flexible to use with Teepee-style shelters.
The grips are on the small side – perfect for Amy's small hands but still comfortable for Doug's bigger hands (shown).
The grips of the Lightrek poles are small. They were a perfect fit for Amy's small hands, and were small but still comfortable for Doug's medium-large hands. The grips are built of EVA foam with a comfortable flair at the bottom that can be used to effectively shorten the poles for climbing.
These poles, wisely, come without straps. Because of their flexibility, Glen Van Peski at Gossamer Gear designed these poles to pop out of your hands in a fall rather than breaking. It was a good decision – despite many falls when using the Lightrek poles, we never had one break during a fall. The lack of straps also caused occasional dropped poles on the trail. If a little extra security is desired, loops for attachment straps are included.
The pole tips are similar to Leki models. They offer consistent traction on the trail and were very dependable. The screw-on basket attachment system is a favorite for security and easy basket changes. The Lightrek poles come with trekking baskets but Leki baskets are widely available for snow use as well. Gossamer Gear recommends using the trekking baskets in rocky conditions to keep the fragile shafts from breaking due to leverage when placed in a hole. Good advice that we didn't follow (see Durability below).
Weight/Swing Weight
The Lightrek poles weigh an almost-unbelievable 2.2 ounces (62 g) per pole in the 110-centimeter length and just 0.1 ounces more in the 125-centimeter length. They are so light that you almost don't notice them in your hands. The difference between the weight of these poles and all the other poles we've used was simply astounding.
It's hard to explain just how light these poles are. When swapping from the Lightrek poles to the lightest three-section poles, the collapsible poles felt like tanks. These poles whip very lightly between placements and using them is virtually effortless. During a 48 hour, 75-mile hike with 9,800 feet of elevation gain last fall, the Lightrek poles were a huge factor in Doug's success; they supported and propelled his every step while adding little to his fatigue.
Lateral Stiffness/Stability
It doesn't take much to make the longer poles flex. However, they feel stable enough during normal trail use.
These poles are not very stiff. The stiffness and feeling of stability varies with pole length, conditions, and the person using the poles.
Amy weighs 115 pounds and used the 110-centimeter poles both for backpacking and snowshoeing. She found that the poles were reasonably stiff and not overly flexible. When applying body weight to these shorter poles, they give somewhat but always felt supportive.
Doug weighs 180 pounds and used the 125-centimeter length poles for backpacking, off-trail hiking, and snowshoeing. He also tends to have a rather aggressive style. Doug found the poles to be quite flexible, bending under his body weight and when descending. These are not the most confidence-inspiring poles at this length but they are certainly stiff enough for most conditions. The Gossamer Gear Lightrek poles are stiffer when applying power straight down than when dealing with side loads; they are precise and efficient when pushing off.
When hikers taller and heavier than Doug used the poles (of those that carry heavier, traditional backpacking loads), they found them to be a little too flexible to be usable. Such hikers who still want ultralight poles, may want to opt for the upcoming Gossamer Gear Lightrek Plus model, which will feature stiffer shafts.
Trail Vibration
The Gossamer Gear Lightrek poles are extremely comfortable on the trail. Their carbon shafts flex somewhat during sharp impacts and absorb small trail vibrations. This makes them wonderful for all-day comfort. The longer shafts tended to vibrate slightly after impacts with hard surfaces such as rock or concrete; this was not an issue with the shorter poles.
Two breaks out of six poles.
We experienced two breakages with our poles over hundreds of miles of trail use.
The first was caused by a pole placement in a hole between large talus boulders during a descent. When stepping forward, the leverage was too much and caused the pole to snap in the lower section (a similar placement with an aluminum pole two years ago caused an irreparable bend). It is important to note that if the trekking baskets had been used, as recommended by Gossamer Gear, this break would have been avoided. Lightrek poles carry no warranty but replacement shafts are available for $30; my replacement arrived in less than a week and a half from my initial e-mail.
The second break is a mystery. Amy was using the pole to clear packed-up snow from a snowshoe cleat and the lower pole just snapped. It wasn't cold enough to make the carbon fiber brittle so we have concluded that it was probably previously damaged. In this instance, Gossamer Gear replaced the shaft with no cost.
Despite the fact that one of these breaks was due to user error and the other due to freak causes, it is important to note that the Lightrek poles lack some durability. However, the poles were thoroughly abused over hundreds of miles, both on and off trail. When we did experience breakages, Gossamer Gear promptly replaced the shafts at a reasonable price.
At $95.95, the Gossamer Gear Lightrek poles offer serious performance for the ultralight hiker. They are simple, yes, and not the most stiff or durable poles, but they are insanely lightweight, very comfortable, and effortlessly apply power to the trail. If the trade-offs are worth it to you, the Gossamer Gear poles are an excellent value.
Want to free up a hand for scrambling, using an umbrella, or eating while using Lightrek poles? Attach the poles together at the tip end with a Velcro fastener or small strap and use both poles as one unit. Make sure that one pole is about 4 inches above the other so only one tip touches at a time and your hand only has to wrap around one grip and the pole shaft. Even with both poles in one hand it's still half the weight of most trekking poles!
Recommendations for Improvement
While both of us love our Lightrek poles and rarely want to carry anything else, we do offer the following ideas for improvement:
- Use thicker, stiffer shafts – the minimal weight gain would be worth it *
- Offer thicker shafts for longer lengths for taller, heavier hikers
- Use a slightly larger grip for a better fit with average-size hands
*Editor's note: In Spring 2005, Gossamer Gear will also offer the Lightrek Plus model which will have thicker shafts and a more ergonomic grip made out of Kork-O-Lon, a different EVA material. Early tests of these thicker shafts show that they are stiffer and more durable than the Lightrek pole shafts at only a slight weight increase.


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WXPN 88.5 Welcomes ...
Union Transfer
1026 Spring Garden St.
Philadelphia, PA, 19123
Doors 8:00 PM / Show 8:30 PM
This event is all ages
Nearly three years on from his breakthrough album Here's To Taking It Easy, Phosphorescent returns to the fray with his most stunning record yet: Muchacho. During the last album's 'cycle', one could almost hear jaws hitting the floor witnessing a live band of such infinite verve. Not only did the album draw high praise in the form of Mojo's 'Album of the Month' (#8 End of Year), Sunday Times & The Independent 'Albums of the Week', hit Rough Trade's Top 5 Best of the Year, but the band also supported The National over the course of three sold out nights at Brixton Academy, a show that The Independent gave 5/5 and called "a sublime, joyous gig".
Matthew Houck, for he is Phosphorescent, likes to work. The Alabama native, now resident in Brooklyn has delivered five albums as Phosphorescent since his 2003 debut. Houck has a highly distinctive artistic voice, but also a refreshing, rolled-sleeves approach to his expression, and if he had his way, he'd have twice as many albums under his belt by now. The singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer is envious of the time when prolificacy was expected. "In the '60s and '70s, they were making artists crank out records every six months. With guys like Waylon Jennings, John Prine and even Dylan, I don't think those records would have gotten made in today's climate, because now you're allowed – or even required – to make a grand statement. I have this ideal – and I know it's not possible, because of the way the industry works – of making a record every year."
Houck may not have managed that, but still has an impressive output – one born of commitment and his soul's need to have its say. It was 2007's Pride – a delicate and spare, haunted and haunting work of ragged country, bittersweet southern gospel and forlorn folk-ish drone – that first caused ears to swivel appreciatively in Phosphorescent's direction. He followed it with To Willie, a tribute to country legend Willie Nelson, then 2010's Here's To Taking It Easy, an unapologetically enthusiastic plunge into country rock and rolling Americana. Now, his sixth album flashes yet another colour in the subtly shifting Phosphorescent spectrum.
Muchacho reprises the understated melancholia and sensuous minimalism of Pride, while kicking up a little of Here's To Taking It Easy's dust, but it also strikes out into more adventurous waters via rhythm and electronic textures. It took shape if not quite by accident, then partly as a result of events beyond Houck's control. After spending the best part of 18 months touring his last record, Houck was, in his words "pretty fried." In late 2011, he returned to the Brooklyn Navy Yard studio where he'd recorded his previous two albums, planning "on taking this whole thing down a few notches. I wanted to make music," he explains, "but I was weary, so the spectre of putting anything out and getting back on the road was a bit of a block." In December, he bought a load of old analogue gear and "just starting playing around with it, making these noises. They weren't songs, they were just strange sound pieces. I've always had that element in my work, and one or two weird, ambient pieces seem to squeeze themselves onto every record, but suddenly I was doing a lot of those." Houck also turned into a bit of DIY electrician, since a lot of the vintage gear needed fixing. "I ended up spending a lot of time learning about stuff like impedance matching and ohms," he laughs. "I really got quite nerdy about how it all worked."
Houck also got very enthusiastic about the sonics that would eventually feed into the strikingly raw, Can-like, 'Ride On/Right On', where his simple, whooping vocal and 808 drum beats are the focus, the production is echo-heavy and the guitar little more than abstract background choogling. "I've always been happy with the records I've made," the singer says, "but sonically, I think there's been something lacking. This time, I was getting really excited about the experimental sounds I was making. I was thinking I might make an ambient record that had vocals, but no lyrics. I was actually considering releasing it under another name, or even my own name." So, a much-needed break, plus some enjoyable messing around with noise, without much thought as to how to use it. But, exactly as 2012 turned, Houck's life began to unravel. A domestic crisis meant he had to find another apartment/studio at short notice, in the dead of winter. In accommodation-squeezed New York. His life was falling apart, but almost perversely, "songs just started happening, and there were five or six of them." Houck admits he was "in the middle of a bit of a freak-out," so in the small hours one Sunday, he booked a ticket to Mexico, on a plane that was leaving three hours later. "It sounds really cheesy, but I went down there with a guitar and got a little hut on the beach in Tulum, on the Yucatan Peninsula." He spent a week there, working to finish the songs that would become Muchacho, then went back to NYC, found a new place, fitted it out with his studio and began tracking the record in May 2012.
'Muchacho's Tune' – with its opening braid of twanging guitars, piano and electric keys, its warm, rich reverb and poignant mariachi brass – is the song on which the album turns. "I've been fucked-up and I've been a fool," confesses Houck, who may or may not be the feckless man-boy of the title. This was the first song to come to him fully formed, and it establishes the album's lyrical theme – "that the possibility of redemption through love and romance is not just hopeful, it's also viable. It definitely exists. But what ends up happening is more redemption through some vague means that I don't really understand."
The album is perfectly framed by 'Sun, Arise! (An Invocation, An Introduction)' and 'Sun's Arising (A Koan, An Exit)', the opening and closing tracks respectively. Sweet, healing and hugely potent in their hymnal simplicity, they not only recognise the diurnal rhythm that governs our existence, but also remind us that however dark things might get, the light will always reappear.
'Muchacho's Tune', the somber and majestically slow 'A New Anhedonia' and the seductively loose 'The Quotidian Beasts' are the album's fullest songs in terms of instrumentation and arrangements. Houck called on around 20 musicians at different times to add various parts, including members of the superior five-piece live band that has recently made such an eloquent and physically powerful contribution to Phosphorescent's soulful expression. But the album's composition and production are again all his own. "It's really always me by myself, so much so that with Pride, no one else played anything. I have a group of really great dudes, and I'll happily trumpet how fantastic these guys are, but a band going into the studio, as one? That never happens."
'A New Anhedonia' – a gorgeous, charcoal grey song on which understated piano, soft brush work and ripples of pedal-steel guitar are matched with heavy reverb and gently sighing backing vocals – was the second song to come fully formed to Houck. And the crisis it describes was resolved by the very writing. Anhedonia is a loss of the ability to take pleasure in something the sufferer usually finds enjoyable, and Houck experienced it in those winter months following that grueling tour. It's quite a shock to hear him murmur, "all the music is boring to me" and then describe music as "foreign", but that's how he felt for a short, dark while. "In addition to what was going on in my personal life, music had always been the most reliable thing for me, but I had a few really lost months of not caring about it, of not deriving any pleasure from music. I felt detached and adrift from everything. Oddly enough, I don't think I knew the word 'anhedonia'; it just kind of popped up right around the time of writing that song. That dread was still quite prevalent, even after the batch of songs came together."
If losing one's way results in something as lustrous as the first album taster 'Song for Zula', more artists should find life's maze and walk around for an indefinite period. It is such a glorious gem that unfolds with Houck's cracked vocal stalking the perimeters unabashed. And this amidst an album positively riddled with highlights like 'Terror in the Canyons' and superlative 'A Charm/A Blade'; all barreling piano and stabby horns galore.
It's indicative of Houck's distinctive talent, dedication to his work and trust in his muse, then, that a temporary hurdle didn't become a serious block. "I got clear of it by just getting to work on the recording," he says, simply. Sleeves rolled. Resolve fixed. Muchacho delivered.
Caveman-a five-man vibe collective from NYC-released their first album in 2011. As first albums go, CoCo Beware was something akin to a moody statement of intent, a blueprint for a band quickly learning how to create horizon-wide rock songs that were equal parts intimate and expansive. Initially self-released and later snatched up by Fat Possum for re-release in early 2012, the record brims over with four-part harmonies, crystalline guitar lines, and tracks that see-sawed between echoey lullaby ("A Country's King of Dreams") to shoegaze-by-way-of classic-FM-radio sprawl ("Old Friend"). The album quickly elevated Caveman from local band to watch to a sizable touring draw and formidable live act, as evidenced by stints on the road with the likes of The War on Drugs and Built to Spill. Despite being the work of a brand new band, CoCo Beware displayed a kind of Zen-like ease. It was the sound a five friends settling into a nice groove; the music that happens when, for whatever reason, a lot of seemingly disparate elements finally fall into place.
On their self-titled sophomore album Caveman stretch their legs in a number of different, albeit cohesive, directions. While the dreaded second album experience tends to be fraught for many bands, in the case of Caveman it proved to be the opposite. Having ridden a fast-growing wave of support for CoCo Beware-which, after two years of touring, ultimately culminated in a series of big hometown NYC shows-recording a follow up proved to be a genuine good time for the band.
"We all went up to Jimmy's grandmother's place in New Hampshire," says singer Matthew Iwanusa. "That's where the new record kind of started. It was literally the attic of her barn, lit up by Christmas lights. We'd all sit in this one room together and one by one we'd all go into the bathroom and record ourselves making the most psycho noises possible. It actually felt kind of like a weird breakthrough. We were all confident and comfortable enough with each other to try out these experiments, which extended itself into the making of the new record…which is really just an evolution of this vibe that we'd been cultivating for long time."
With that, the guys holed up in Brooklyn's Rumpus Room to start recording in earnest with Nick Stumpf (who produced the band's debut album) and Albert Di Fiore behind the controls. They routinely turned out all the lights in the studio and "vibed out the space" while recording, which makes sense given the warm, big room feeling that saturates the record. The album is a kind of sonic microcosm-a series of emotional yet tough mini-narratives operating within the same quixotic musical universe.
It's fair to say that the songs on Caveman benefited from a solid year of touring on the band's part. "We really learned how to play together," says keyboardist Sam Hopkins, "the shorter songs from the first record got longer and longer when we played them live. We learned how to stretch ourselves in different ways." As a result, the guitars on Caveman are bigger and more expansive, the rhythm section is tighter and more adventurous, the keyboards more opaque and pronounced. Like a marriage between Tangerine Dream, late period Slowdive, and Lindsey Buckingham, tracks like their new single "In the City" and "Ankles" boast synth lines that sound simultaneously retro and futuristic, while "Pricey" and "Never Want to Know" overflow with guitar sounds that could have miraculously floated off an old Cure album. (It should be noted that James Carbonetti, the band's primary guitar player, also happens to be one of the most highly regarded guitar makers in New York City.) And while Caveman's music could certainly operate on the level of dreamy soundscape and still be excellent, the depth of feeling in front man Matthew Iwanusa's lyrics helps weave the songs deeply into your memory. As is the case with many a band on the rise, the price of popularity often comes at the surprise expense of everyone's own personal life; a topic that fuels many of the record's best tracks. When Iwanusa sings Where's the time to waste on someone else's life? on "Where's the Time" it's hard not to read between the lines. Wonder and regret seem to fuel the record in almost equal measure.
"We all got so close since the making of the last record," explains Carbonetti, "Eventually it was like all of our lives were kind of blending together and several of us found ourselves going through the same kinds of struggles in our personal lives. We also realized that we all kind of loved each other-that we'd passed the friend test-and that we all just wanted to hang out together all the time, basically. All of those feelings eventually bled into the record we ended up making."
The words "dreamy" and "cinematic" and "vibe" might be some of the most lazily overused descriptors in the music-writers lexicon, but it's hard to think of another contemporary band that so completely embraces those terms as both an adjective for what they do and as a goal for the art they are trying to make. "A lot people don't relate to the idea of cinematic music-something that sounds like a film soundtrack-but I love that notion," says Iwanusa. "I love music that conjures a mood, sets a tone, and inspires a certain kind of visual. I hope people can get that from this record: a sound that accompanies this big ship flying through the trees, this big, crazy light that just fills up the sky."
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Ancient trees
Cervantes Travel Blog› entry 3 of 25 › view all entries
I am leaving Perth way too early in the morning for it to feel like a holiday. I am already getting ready to the way of holiday in Oz - you tend to always get up really early.
Leaving Perth I head north for the first stop of the journey. It is not such a long trip north just going a couple of hours north to a small place near Cervantes. It is a little national park - called the Nambung National Park. I have been here once before but back then it was one of those rare rainy days they actually do get in Western Australia a couple of times a year or something like that.
The park is pretty small and you can go on a short hiking trail which leads you straight out into the pinnacles.
One interesting thing is it is a different kind of sand in the area with the pinnacles. Most of the sand in Oz tends to be red due to the large content of iron - or sometimes they do get beautiful white sandy beaches as well. But here at the pinnacles the sand got a yellow color which makes the area stand out from a distance when you are driving towards them on the highway. At least I was sure I had seen this yellow sand patch before when we got close to the pinnacles.


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Chill Out Trailer (2000)
08 September 2000 Drama, Romance
The film tells the story of an unusual love triangle between Johan, Max, and Anna. The action takes place in Berlin after the unification of its eastern and western parts, against the background of its reconstruction and rebuilding.
Watch the official Chill Out 2000 trailer in HD below or find more Chill Out videos on Vidimovie.


text: Highlight the Helpless Brien Straw and Paul Gallant shed light on multiple topics that will make your head spin. Their first topic is about a man in Alabama who decided to strip his clothes off and climb a tree fully nude. They give Pepsi a shout-out for accidentally filling their cans with Alcopop Party Drink, containing 4.5% alcohol. They finish up highlighting the helpless by discussing an interesting study about divorces and a study that declares hitting the snooze button is bad for you. B-Straw & Pauly-G ShowMore from B-Straw & Pauly-G ShowComments Leave a Reply Cancel reply Enter your comment here... Please log in using one of these methods to post your comment: Email (required) (Address never made public) Name (required) Website You are commenting using your Twitter account. ( Log Out / Change ) You are commenting using your Facebook account. ( Log Out / Change ) You are commenting using your Google+ account. ( Log Out / Change ) Cancel Connecting to %s Notify me of new comments via email. Notify me of new posts via email. More From CBS Houston DONATE NOW TO HOUSTON FOOD BANKAll of Houston Radio is banding together to support the Houston Food Bank. Donate now.Dynamo Schedule


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