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New TomTom GO X30 series now available in North America
Apr 29 2008
New TomTom GO x30 series now available in
North America
~ TomTom GO 930 and TomTom GO 730 feature exclusive IQ Routes™ technology for the first time ~
Concord, MA - April 29, 2008 - TomTom, the world's largest portable navigation solutions provider today announces the availability of its new flagship range: the TomTom GO 930 and TomTom GO 730.
The TomTom GO x30 series comes with a fresh new look and high-quality finish. It features TomTom's award-winning software, the latest navigation features and content including TomTom IQ Routes™, Advanced Lane Guidance and TomTom Map Share™. Drivers have easy access to detailed traffic information through the RDS-TMC Traffic Receiver, which is included in the box on the 930T and 730T models, and also available for separate purchase as an accessory for other models.
The innovative IQ Routes™ technology is based on actual average speeds measured on roads, rather than posted speed limits. This means that the new TomTom GO range determines a route by considering all possible routes and then selecting the one that takes the least time based on recent historical data. In almost 50% of all journeys, this results in a faster route, and saves significant travel time, fuel, and money.
TomTom GO 930 (T)
TomTom's premium model comes with the latest seamless maps of the United States, Canada and Europe stored on the internal memory. The TomTom GO 930 has a recommended retail price of $499 and the GO 930 T has a recommended retail price of $549.
TomTom GO 730 (T)
The TomTom GO 730 comes with maps of the United States and Canada and has a recommended retail price of $449 for the GO 730 and $499 for the GO 730T.
The new TomTom GO x30 series features the latest in navigation with a host of navigation technologies and content:
TomTom IQ Routes™ calculates the fastest route possible using actual average speeds of travel rather than posted speed limits.
Advanced Lane Guidance for a more realistic view and enhanced visual instructions of drivers' surroundings
TomTom Map Share™ technology, enabling users to make updates and corrections to their own maps instantly and to benefit from improvements made by other users, completely free of charge. New Map Share features include the ability to change turn restrictions and posted road speeds
Latest map guarantee so users always have free access to the latest map at time of purchase
Voice address input so that users can drive to millions of cities and street names by simply announcing the address of their destination
Clear voice instructions and text-to-speech to enable street names, places, traffic alerts and SMS messages to be read aloud as part of the spoken instructions
Enhanced Positioning Technology (EPT) for uninterrupted navigation even in tunnels or highly-built areas (TomTom GO 930 only)
TomTom RDS-TMC Traffic Receiver, as a compatible accessory, for detailed traffic information
Large 4.3 inch touch screen with new generation icons and an updated user interface to navigate drivers to their destination even more easily
Enhanced hands-free calling with high-quality sound system via Bluetooth® to allow drivers to keep their eyes firmly on the road while making phone calls in the car
Extensive safety features, including the 'Help Me' menu that give drivers direct access to emergency services and roadside assistance
Built-in FM Transmitter to play music and navigation instructions seamlessly over the car stereo
New smart & fun extras to personalize users' devices, including recording your own driving instructions, view documents, exchange positions via SMS and Bluetooth™ wireless technology and select a favorite car icon on the screen
Free TomTom HOME software and content from the TomTom community to keep your TomTom device up to date at all times
Full range of accessories to match the design and finish of the updated GO range
Product technical specifications
4.3" widescreen 16:9 format LCD (WQVGA: 480*272 pixels)
CPU 400 MHz
TomTom GO 930: 4 GB internal flash memory, TomTom GO 730: 2 GB
SD card slot
High sensitivity GPS receiver
Lithium-polymer battery (up to 5 hours operation)
Dimensions: 118 mm x 83 mm x 24 mm- convert to inches 4.6 x 3.2 x 1
Weight: 7.7 ounces
For more information:
IQ Routes™ technology: www.tomtom.com/iq-routes
Advanced Lane Guidance: www.tomtom.com/lane-guidance
For Public Relations please contact:
Karen CK Drake
PR Manager
Tel: 978-405-1688
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
For Investor Relations, please contact:
Taco Titulaer
Head of Investor Relations
Tel: +31 (0)20 850 0994
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
About TomTom
TomTom NV is the world's leading navigation solutions provider. TomTom's products are developed with an emphasis on innovation, quality, ease of use, safety and value. TomTom's products include all-in-one navigation devices which enable customers to navigate right out of the box; these are the award-winning TomTom GO family, the TomTom XL and TomTom ONE ranges and the TomTom RIDER. Additionally, independent research proves that TomTom products have a significant positive effect on driving and road safety. TomTom offers a portfolio of content and services for TomTom's navigation products, which are easily available through TomTom HOME. TomTom also provides navigation software products that integrate with third party devices; the TomTom NAVIGATOR software for PDAs and smartphones. TomTom WORK combines industry leading communication and smart navigation technology with leading edge tracking and tracing expertise. TomTom's products are sold through a network of leading retailers in 30 countries and online. TomTom was founded in 1991 in Amsterdam and has offices in Europe, North America and Asia Pacific. TomTom is listed at Euronext Amsterdam in The Netherlands. For more information, go to http://www.tomtom.com.


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Angelique Bordey PhD
Professor of Neurosurgery and of Cellular and Molecular Physiology
Biographical Info
Dr. Angélique Bordey holds the rank of Professor of Neuroscience. Dr. Bordey is an active participant in teaching and training of graduate and medical students at Yale School of Medicine. Dr. Bordey is the Editor-in-Chief of the journal Frontiers in Neurogenesis and an executive Editor of the journals Neuropharmacology, Glia, Neuroplasticity, AES Neuro, Neurogenesis, and Fronteirs in Neuroscience. She has served as an Ad Hoc member on several study sections and is presently a member of CMBG NIH study section . She has organized several national and international symposiums, and is frequently an invited speaker. Finally, she is a McKnight awardee and holds several grant fundings.
International Activity
- Neurobiology
Professor Bordey conducts collaborative research with French neurobiologists
Education & Training
- National School of Engineering, Lyon (1991)
- University Louis Pasteur, Strasbourg (1992)
- Ph.D.
- Louis Pasteur University (1995)
- Postdoctoral Fellow
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Neurobiology
Honors & Recognition
- Young Investigator Travel Award to the 2003 American Epilepsy Society Meeting
Epilepsy Foundation (2003)
- McKnight Neuroscience of brain Disorder Award
McKnight Endowment Foundation (2010)

subset: commoncrawl


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Tasty Burritos Recipe
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 envelope taco seasoning
- 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
- 6 flour tortillas (12 inches), warmed
- 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 teaspoons canola oil
- Sour cream and salsa
- In a large skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Stir in taco seasoning. In a small saucepan, cook refried beans over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
- Spoon about 1/3 cup of beans off-center on each tortilla; top with 1/4 cup beef mixture. Sprinkle with cheese. Fold sides and ends of tortilla over filling and roll up.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown burritos in oil on all sides. Serve with sour cream and salsa. Yield: 6 servings.
Reviews for Tasty Burritos
Sort By :
"Very tasty. I agree with some of the other reviewers that smaller tortillas would be better, and they need to be browned over medium rather than medium-high heat."
"My husband LOVES these burritos. Plus, they're so easy to make. I typically make a double batch of the ground beef and refried beans and put the extra in the fridge . Then, it only takes a few minutes to put together and fry up a burrito or two as a snack later on in the week."
"cool recipe"
"This recipe was a HUGE hit in my household, that has extremely picky eaters. I took the suggestions of some other reviewers and popped them in the oven versus stove top because I wanted to cut back on the frying. Now my husband can't even go to the "Mexican" places around here because these were sooo good!!! Thank you!!!!"
"Made as written except put the cheese on top instead of inside. Very good!!!"


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Customer Raves & Reviews
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Prompt Shipping and Beautiful Card
I am truly impressed with the timing that everything was sent and how lovely the invitations came. I love the idea of the cute box with the invitations neatly stacked. As far as the design of the invitation, it was easy to do and the colors that I needed were right there. My theme for my wedding is live laugh love and I couldn't find a nice invitation to use anywhere until I found Magnet Street. Thank you again and as a wedding and event coordinator, I will be recommending this site to everyone I know.
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United Nations University Environment and Sustainable Development Programme (UNU ESD)
Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research
United Nations Human Settlements Agency (UN-HABITAT)
FOI - the Swedish Defence Research Agency
Institute for Environment and Santation Studies, University of Ghana (IESS)
International Network for Bamboo and Rattan (INBAR)
Global Water Partnership
Arabian Gulf University
Ecoprogresso - Consultores em Ambiente e Desenvolvimento
CDKN: Climate and Development Knowledge Network
Climate Business Network (CBNet)
Regional Integrated Multi-hazard Early Warning System for Africa and Asia (RIMES)
Fantsuam Foundation
Global Climate Adaptation Partnership (GCAP)
German Development Institute (DIE)
Women's Environment and Development Organisation (WEDO)
Nexus, Carbon For Development (NEXUS)
Water Research Commission
Doctors for Humankind Foundation
Organizations, institutions and private sector companies at all levels and in a wide range of sectors can become engaged with the NWP by becoming a partner and making Action Pledges. Information about how organizations can become engaged with work on adaptation under the NWP can be found here.
© 2014 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change


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Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
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ATHENS, Ohio – The Miami University volleyball team was able to take a set off of 20th-ranked Ohio on its home court on Friday, but ultimately it fell, 1-3 (18-25, 25-21, 18-25, 15-25). The RedHawks are now 8-7 overall and 0-3 in the Mid-American Conference. The Bobcats improve to 13-2 overall and 3-0 in the MAC.
Freshman outside hitter Maris Below led the RedHawks with 12 kills, while senior libero Madison Hardy recorded 22 digs to become the first Miami player to reach the 1,500 career dig mark.
With a 9-8 lead in set one, Ohio went on an 8-1 run to take control at 17-9. Sophomore middle hitter Jenny Ingle put down two kills, while sophomore outside hitter Annie Reiswig and Below each put down kills of their own to help pull the RedHawks to within five at 13-18. Below recorded another kill off of freshman setter Krista Brakauskas' assist, while junior middle hitter Chelsea Visk had a solo block, but Miami was unable to get any closer as the Bobcats took a 25-18 win.
Despite three kills from Ingle and two from sophomore outside hitter Sarah Chaney, Ohio was able to build a 14-11 lead to begin set two. Ingle and junior outside hitter/setter Meg Riley put down back-to-back kills to pull the 'Hawks to within one, but the Bobcats scored three straight to take a 17-13 advantage and force a Miami timeout. Out of the break, the RedHawks scored six straight points to take a 20-17 lead, highlighted by two blocks from freshman middle hitter Paige Hill and two service aces by Riley. After Ohio scored the next point, another block by Hill and a kill from Visk sparked a 5-3 closing run that gave Miami a 25-21 victory.
Two kills from Hill kept the third set tied at three early. Ohio went on a 6-2 run to go up four, but two kills from Chaney, along with yet another block from Hill helped keep Miami close. Below put down a kill to pull the RedHawks to within two at 15-17, but the Bobcats took over from there, finishing on an 8-3 run to earn a 25-18 victory.
Two kills, a block and a service ace by Riley helped stake Miami to a 5-4 lead in set four. Ohio answered with a 4-1 run to go in front, 8-6, but an OU service error followed by a kill from Below tied the score at eight. The Bobcats went on a 6-2 run to take a 14-10 advantage. Ingle responded with a kill to pull the 'Hawks within three but Ohio finished off a 25-15 win with an 11-4 closing run.
Reiswig and Ingle each finished with eight kills for Miami. Riley had a double-double with 16 assists and 10 digs. Brakauskas led the way with 20 assists, while Hill had four blocks (two solo and two assisted).
Miami returns to action on Saturday when it travels to Kent State for a 7 p.m. match.


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Email from Sirius 2 wk freeview
Posted 02 February 2012 - 10:52 AM
Just wondering.
|...Ads Help To Support This Site...
Posted 02 February 2012 - 11:14 AM
Too often we enjoy the comfort of opinion without the discomfort of thought. -- JFK
Posted 02 February 2012 - 11:17 AM
Posted 03 February 2012 - 12:14 AM
Posted 03 February 2012 - 06:16 AM
The email and letter I received said that only 60 channels would be available during the two week free view. I didn't bother to see what channels would be available.
Cancelled XM in the fall on 2 radios. Got an email from SXM yesterday advising freview for the next two weeks. Tuned in last night and was only able to listen to selected music channels. For the few minutes I was in the car none of the religous channels were available, only music from what I could tell quickly. I did not get to check sports channels. Anyone else get these. Is the freeview for all previous customers or do they select certain former customers to target?
Just wondering.
Posted 05 February 2012 - 10:46 PM


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Club competitions
National team competitions
18-8, 17-21, 21-18, 18-17
EWE Baskets Oldenburg raced away in the first quarter and never looked back as they opened their EuroChallenge Group L campaign with a 74-64 victory over Tsmoki-Minsk.
The hosts wasted no time in taking control of the game with Rickey Paulding's jump-shot putting them up 11-2 six minutes into the game.
Adam Chubb's lay-up three minutes later made it 18-6, and they then scored the first four points of the second quarter to go 22-8 up on Julius Jenkins' jump-shot.
They held their biggest lead when Dominik Bahiense de Mello's lay-up made it 26-11 early in the second quarter.
Minsk responded in a bid to stay alive, with Aliaksei Lashkevich scoring five points in an 11-0 run that made it 26-22 on Aliaksandr Pustahvar's lay-up.
They cut the gap to just one point early in the third quarter with Lashkevich's lay-up making it 35-34, but that sparked a response from EWE Baskets as Paulding hit a three and Chubb followed with a lay-up.
Their lead was out to 48-36 when Robin Smeulders made a lay-up midway through the third period.
Minsk would briefly get the gap back to four in the fourth quarter but EWE Baskets were able to see out the win comfortably enough.
Christopher Kramer finished with 18 points for the victors while Paulding had 16, Jenkins 13, Smeulders 11 and Chubb 10.
Lashkevich led Minsk with 17 points, Pustahvar had 16 and Aliaksandr Kudrautsau 12.
Minsk head coach Andrei Krivonos:"For us playing the first game in the Last 16 of the EuroChallenge was really emotional. You could see that the players started out tentatively and were not quite there in the first quarter. Of course we also had a long trip here, but I will not use that as an excuse. We found our rhythm in the second quarter but as we closed the game we made some poor decisions and rushed our shots a couple of times. We are essentially a new team at the moment, having exchanged most of our foreign players a few weeks back, so we will get better as the round of the Last 16 continues."
Minsk player Aliaksandr Pustahvar:"We are disappointed with the loss. We fought back very well after the first quarter, but every time we got into striking distance of Oldenburg we took bad shots and made costly mistakes. This was because we were so eager to tie the game or even get into the lead, but in the end, playing from behind was really exhausting. Still this game gives us motivation for the coming contests as we know now that we can keep up with the best teams in the competition. We wanted to keep the score close because we have the home game against Oldenburg coming up and the aggregate score counts in the end."
Oldenburg head coach Sebastian Machowski:"We are happy having won the first game in the Last 16, but the way we won was not very attractive. Just like in the Bundesliga game against Ulm we started very well but lost our focus and energy after we had established an early lead. Our decision making was poor at times and we didn't really finish our offensive systems. We kept letting Minsk get back into the game. Still it is a good feeling to start this round with a win. It was fun playing here in Vechta and the crowd gave us a warm welcome and supported us very well. We should have played better for them, but I think we managed to win some new fans during this home game away from home."
Oldenburg player Robin Smeulders:"It was a tough start into the round of the Last 16. We knew that every team making it this far must be a tough opponent, but Minsk put up a formidable challenge tonight. We got into foul trouble early, caused by the physical game of Minsk. With their length and athleticism they caused us some huge match-up problems and made life hard for us, especially in the paint. We were leading from start to finish and every time Minsk got close we started a run, so I think our win was highly deserved."
Christopher Kramer
Aliaksei Lashkevich


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Staffers at the Lenoir County Tax Department are seeing shorter lines of people paying their year-end property taxes in person — as more taxpayers use the mail and online payment options — but it doesn't mean they are any less busy this time of year.
"We still have to process the payments," Collections Supervisor Amanda Lovett said Friday.
Lovett, who has been with the tax department since 2006, noted the traditional long lines have decreased each year for the past five years, especially since the department's online payment system debuted several years ago.
"We do have a lot of mail to process and we do have more online payments. … The majority of people prefer to do it that way," she said.
Owners of real property, business personal property and personal property in Lenoir County have until Jan. 7 to pay taxes owed on that property.
Tax Administrator Darrell Parrish said the deadline is traditionally Jan. 5, but it has been pushed to Jan. 7 since Jan. 5 falls on a Saturday.
"Legally, after Jan. 7 the tax office can enforce collection action," Parrish explained.
Collection actions can include garnishment of wages and foreclosure.
"That's a last resort in most cases, but we can and there may be some that we do," Parrish said.
Interest is also charged on late payments — 2 percent for the first month, and 0.75 percent for each additional month.
Any payment sent by mail that is postmarked with a U.S. post office stamp by Jan. 7 is considered timely, Parrish added.
The tax office will also send out listing forms for 2013 beginning Monday. Anyone who purchased property for business or personal use, such as industrial equipment, a boat or mobile home, after Jan. 1, 2012, must list it with the tax office before Jan. 31, 2013.
Taxpayers can begin listing property Wednesday.
Parrish said the forms also have space to list any personal property that was sold or disposed of in 2012 "so we can take it off and not tax you for it."
Parrish noted the tax department's entire four-person staff for collecting and processing tax payments turned over in 2012, meaning all-new employees are helping taxpayers this year.
"They've done a good job, they really have," he said. "With any employees in a new job there's a bit of a learning curve, but they've done very well."
Lovett also praised her four new charges, who include three people working at the customer service counter and one as a tax collection specialist.
"They've all done an excellent job," she said.
David Anderson can be reached at 252-559-1077 or firstname.lastname@example.com. Follow him on Twitter at DavidFreePress.
LenoirCountytaxpayers have three methods of paying their property taxes by Jan. 7:
In person:
Lenoir County Tax Department
Lenoir County Administration Building
101 N. Queen St.
8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday
The office will be closed Tuesday for New Year's Day
By Mail:
Lenoir County Tax Department
101 North Queen St.
P.O. Drawer 3289
Kinston, North Carolina 28501


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GREENSBORO – It'd be safe to say former North Gaston High standout A.J. Blue is gaining more accolades from teammates and coaches at the University of North Carolina.
It all means that Blue, who remains Gaston County's all-time leader in scoring responsibility and total offense and third in passing and fourth in rushing, will be counted on for a big season.
And there's little doubt his quarterback and his head coach fully expect him to come through.
"His passion for the game is the best on our team by far," UNC quarterback Bryn Renner said during Sunday's ACC Football Kickoff at the Grandover Resort and Conference Center. "The work ethic that he shows and his willingness to work is unbelievable. He's a leader by example."
This came after his head coach, Larry Fedora, called Blue his team's best leader during spring football practice.
To be sure, Blue is expected to fill such large shoes, as he is the projected replacement for the Tar Heels' All-ACC running back Gio Bernard. Bernard racked up 1,981 all-purpose yards last season, highlighted by 1,228 yards rushing and his game-winning 74-yard TD punt return against N.C. State, before leaving for the NFL at season's end.
For a player who accounted for 9,700 yards total offense (5,077 passing and 4,623 rushing) and 824 points in his four-year career at North Gaston, Blue certainly has shown the ability to do just that.
He's certainly gotten the attention of teammates like Renner.
"He's such a physical player," Renner said of Blue. "He's bigger than Gio and he's very talented between the tackles. He can run you over rather than juking you."
While Blue's talents certainly are worthy – he's rushed for 604 yards and nine touchdowns so far in his career – his ability to play after suffering a devastating knee injury during his freshman year of 2009 plays a huge role in the respect he gets from his peers.
Renner was a freshman that season and says Blue's work ethic is legendary.
It's also the reason Blue is expected to thrive in his final collegiate season.
"The whole backfield that we have is talented," Renner said of Blue, Romar Morris and freshmen Khris Francis and T.J. Logan. "A.J.'s been her five years, same as myself. That's a lot of knowledge back there. So we're looking forward to helping the younger guys come along. Romar played some last year. We have T.J. Logan coming in and Khris Francis, so we'll be expecting a lot from a lot of those guys."
You can reach Richard Walker at 704-869-1841 or by twitter.com/JRWalk22


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The Mann Center periodically convenes a small group of influential students to help identify opportunities for student-focused programming and resources related to academic integrity at Samford. The 2012-2013 Academic Integrity Advocates include:
Cassie is a senior biology major from Cullman, AL. She currently serves as a Howard College Ambassador for the 2012-2013 school year, and has previously served on Freshman Forum and the Presidential Advisory Council, and as Director of Health Services and VP of Samford Gives Back for the Community Service Council.
Off-campus, Cassie volunteers in the NICU at the Children's Hospital of Alabama, has been a preschool teacher at the Church at Brookhills, and has tutored at Southtown Housing Projects. She has also worked with vacation Bible schools in Belize for the past three years. After graduation, Cassie plans to become a nurse practitioner and travel around the world as a medical missionary.
Paizley, a senior education major from Athens, AL, is active in a number of Samford student organizations. A vice president of Zeta Tau Alpha, she has also served on Freshman Forum, as a Connections Leader, and as the Director of Special Events for SGA.
Currently, Paizley is the SGA Chief of Staff and a member of the Samford Student Recruitment Team, and engages actively in volunteer work. She is also involved with Campus Outreach and the Church of Brookhills.
Ashley is a second year pharmacy student from Trussville, AL. She is currently involved with the American Pharmacist Association- Academy of Student Pharmacists (APhA-ASP) and the Christian Pharmacy Fellowship (CPF). Outside of school, Ashley enjoys painting and teaches an eighth-grade girls' Sunday School class.
After graduation, Ashley would like to become an ambulatory care pharmacist, with a longer-term goal of teaching in a pharmacy school.
Adrienne is a second year pharmacy student from Montgomery, AL. She is currently the historian of the American Pharmacists Association Academy of Student Pharmacists and will serve as President of the Student Society of Health-System Pharmacy next year. She also currently works at a community pharmacy in the Birmingham area.
This past summer, Adrienne worked with a McWhorter School of Pharmacy faculty member, conducting research focusing on the effects of alternative medicines on chemotherapy drugs. After graduation, she hopes to complete Post-Graduate Year One residency and work as a clinical pharmacist.
Demi, a junior from Mountain Brook, AL, is a nutrition and dietetics major. She is also active in Samford's University Ministries social justice committee. Some of Demi's hobbies include spending time with friends, reading, crafting, and cooking.
Jane Marie is a senior communication studies major from Montgomery, AL. She is Chief Justice of SGA, Director of Membership for the Student Recruitment Team, a member of the Samford Ambassadors, and a Connections Leader.
After graduation, Jane Marie plans to pursue a career in education policy. She currently serves as a tutor at Cornerstone School in Birmingham.
Monica, a senior from Conyers, GA, is a graphic design major. She is co-founder of the Delta Xi Phi multicultural sorority at Samford, on the SGA Multicultural Affairs committee, a member of the School of the Arts' Student Arts Council, and a painter at Shiloh.
After graduation, Monica hopes to work in marketing for a media company as a designer or researcher. She is currently a student board member for the Birmingham chapter of the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA), and a freelance designer. This summer, she completed a 4-summer internship with Comcast in Atlanta, GA.
Bo, a senior from Jacksonville, AL, is majoring in political science and journalism/mass communication. He is currently an intern at Cornerstone Schools of Alabama, and plans to work in education policy within the state of Alabama.
Bo is very active on campus, currently serving as president of the Samford Ambassadors and as vice president of Pi Kappa Phi. Previously, he was the finance chair for the SGA Senate, a Connections leader, and an Orientation leader.
Lydia, a junior from Morton, IL, is actively involved in campus life at Samford. A history major, she is also a Samford cheerleader, a sister of Zeta Tau Alpha and a member of Alpha Lambda Delta national honor society.
Some of Lydia's favorite activities include studying at Panera, sleeping, and going to the movies. After graduation, her career goal is to earn a PhD and teach history.
Kaleigh is a senior art major from Alpharetta, GA. On-campus, she serves as vice president of marketing for Omicron Delta Kappa, vice president of the Samford American Marketing Association, and president of Kappa Pi International Honorary Art Fraternity.
Currently, Kaleigh also participates in service work off-campus, including as a marketing advisor for YouthServe, Inc., as an art partner with VSA - The International Organization on Arts and Disabilities, and as a freelance artist and event volunteer with the Alabama Early Childhood Leadership Academy.
Learn more about past advocates: 2011-2012.


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This page will address the first concept of Maven :
The Project descriptor.
The description will talk about the file where the descriptor reside, and oabut the most revelant part of the descriptor
The descirption will include some tree sample and some pom.xml files.
It will talk about dependencies and versions


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Preschoolers: Child Development (3-5 Years Old)
Developmental Milestones for Preschoolers 3-5 Years of Age
As your child grows into early childhood, his world will begin to open up. She will become more independent and begin to focus more on adults and children outside of the family. He will want to explore and ask about his surroundings even more.
Her interactions with family and those around her will help to shape her personality and individual ways of thinking and moving. During this stage your child will be able to ride a tricycle, use safety scissors, show awareness of gender identity, help to dress and undress himself, play with other children, recall part of a story, and sing a song.
For more information on developmental milestones and warning signs of possible developmental delays, visit Learn the Signs. Act Early.
Positive Parenting of Preschoolers 3-5 Years of Age
Child Safety First (Preschoolers 3-5 Years of Age)
As your child becomes more independent and increases her interaction with the outside world, it is important that you and your child are aware of ways to stay safe. Here are a few ways to protect your child.
Last Editorial Review: 10/9/2009 3:54:19 PM


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Below is a list of winners of Sunday's Cardboard Boat Regatta Categories, and winners from the Galesburg Public Schools Foundation's Rubber Duck Race.
Cardboard Boat Regatta Challenges Participants
Area Bank Robbed
Art in the Park Draws Crowds
Artists from Galesburg and the region gathered in Standish Park, Saturday.
Search Warrant Leads to Heroin, Crack Discovery
Peoria MEG was brought into Galesburg yesterday to execute a search warrant.
School District Budget In Need of Amendments
A few financial maneuvers will need to be completed before the 2014/15 fiscal year budget is finalized in the Galesburg School District.
Hearings Set in Stabbing Death Case
A new court date has been set in the case of a Chicago man in trouble with the law before in Knox County, but now facing murder charges following a stabbing death almost a month ago.
Library Board Talks Finances, Strategic Plan
Early Learning Center Hosts Open House
Some time after purchasing the building from District 205, Learning Connections is showing the community their progress.
Man Charged With Driving Grain Trailer Drunk
A man faces a number of charges for allegedly being intoxicated when he caused the crash of a truck-trailer in rural Warren County late Wednesday night.


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Latest update : 2012-10-10
How do artists and writers see the world? France 24 takes you beyond the headlines to the crossroads where culture meets the news and engages with what's happening in our lives today. From Monday to Friday at 12.15 pm Paris time.
2015-06-02 culture
Amer Shomali: Harnessing black humour to tell Palestinian stories
Multi-disciplinary artist Amer Shomali joins us in the studio to talk about his film, "The Wanted 18". Screened as part of Paris's first Palestinian film festival, the...
2015-06-01 culture
La Fine Equipe: French beatmakers merge hip-hop and electro
Encore! says bonjour to La Fine Equipe. The French DJs and producers are launching their album "La Boulangerie 3", a collection that takes in hip-hop, funk and electro. They talk...
2015-05-29 culture
Edith Piaf tribute's encore run, and jazz festival season in full swing
The Edith Piaf tribute "Hymne à Piaf" is back at Paris' Essaïon Theatre for an encore season, to coincide with the centenary of the iconic French chanteuse's birth. Jazz singer...
2015-05-28 culture
Rapper's delights: 'Hip-Hop, from the Bronx to the Arab Street'
Calling all b-boys and fly-girls! FRANCE 24 checks out a new Paris exhibition entitled "Hip-Hop, from the Bronx to the Arab Street", and it's a real rapper's delight. Currently...
2015-05-27 culture
Film Show: 'The Measure of a Man', 'My Golden Days' and vintage Spielberg
The curtain's down on Cannes and film critic Lisa Nesselson is back in Paris to speak to Richelle Harrison Plesse about her festival highlights, including two films currently...


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Jetty is a project at the Eclipse Foundation.
|Jetty Powered:
private support for your internal/customer projects ... custom extensions and distributions ... versioned snapshots for indefinite support ... scalability guidance for your apps and Ajax/Comet projects ... development services from 1 day to full product delivery
Jetty 6 Architecture
View from 20,000 feet
The Jetty Server is the plumbing between a collection of Connectors that accept HTTP connections, and a collection of Handlers that service requests from the connections and produce responses, with the work being done by threads taken from a thread pool.
While the jetty request/responses are derived from the Servlet API, the full features of the servlet API are only available if the appropriate handlers are configured. For example, the session API on the request is inactive unless the request has been passed to a Session Handler. The concept of a Servlet itself is represented by a Servlet Handler.
Thus a Jetty server may be built using simply connectors and handlers, but without using Servlets.
Contexts are handlers that group other handlers below a particular URI context path or a virtual host. Contexts may use the base ContextHandler, the servlet Context or a Web Application Context. A web application context combines handlers for security, session and servlets in a single unit that can be configured with a web.xml descriptor.
The implementation of Jetty follows some fairly standard patterns. Most abstract concepts such as Connector, Handler and Buffer are captured by interfaces. Generic handling for those interfaces is then provided in an Abstract implementation such as AbstractConnector, AbstractHandler and AbstractBuffer.
The JSR77 inspired life cycle of most jetty components is represented by LifeCycle interface and the AbstractLifeCycle implementation used as the base of many Jetty components.
Jetty provides is own IO Buffering abstract over String, byte arrays and NIO buffers. This allows for greater portability of Jetty as well as hiding some of the complexity of the NIO layer and it's advanced features.
The connectors represent the protocol handlers that accept connections, parse requests and generate responses. The different types of connectors available are based on the protocols , scheduling model and IO APIs used:
- SocketConnector - for few busy connections or when NIO is not available.
- BlockingChannelConnector - for few busy connections when NIO is available
- SelectChannelConnector - for many mostly idle connections or asynchronous handling of Ajax requests.
- SslSocketConnector - SSL without NIO
- SslSelectChannelConnector - SSL with non blocking NIO support.
- AJPConnector AJP protocol support for connections from apache mod_jk or mod_proxy_ajp
The Handler is the component that deals with received requests. The core API of a handler is the handle method:
An implementation of this method may handle the request, pass the request onto another handler (or servlet) or may modify and/or wrap the request and then pass it on. This gives three styles of Handler:
- Coordinating Handlers - Handlers that route requests to other handlers (eg HandlerCollection, ContextHandlerCollection)
- Filtering Handlers - Handlers that augment a request and pass it on to other handlers (eg. HandlerWrapper, ContextHandler, SessionHandler)
- Generating Handlers - Handlers that produce content (eg ResourceHandler and ServletHandler)
See also Writing a Jetty Handler.
The ServletHandler is a Handler that generates content by passing the request to any configured Filters and then to a Servlet mapped by a URI pattern.
A ServletHandler is normally deployed within the scope of a servlet Context, which is a ContextHandler that provides convenience methods for mapping URIs to servlets.
Filters and Servlets may also use a RequestDispatcher to reroute a request to another context or another servlet in the current context.
Web Applications
A WebAppContext is a derivation of the servlet Context that supports the standardized layout of a web application and configuration of session, security, listeners, filter, servlets and JSP via a web.xml descriptor normally found in the WEB-INF directory of a webapplication.
Essentially the WebAppContext is a conveniance class to assist the construction and configuration of other handlers to achieve a standard web application configuration.
Configuration is actually done by pluggable implementations of the Configuration class and the prime among these is WebXmlConfiguration


text:
Notify Me! The product you are searching for is out of stock. If you wish us to notify you when the product is in stock please submit your name and email.
|The Ray Ban Boyfriend Sunglasses features a flat-top frame style glasses with a metalllic logo script at the temples and a 56mm gradient lens. Made in Italy 100% UV Protection


text:
Author Affiliations: Psychiatry Research and Teaching Unit, School of Psychiatry (Drs Steel and Silove and Mss Chey and Marnane), and School of Psychology (Dr Bryant), University New South Wales, Liverpool New South Wales, Australia; and Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland (Dr van Ommeren).
Context Uncertainties continue about the roles that methodological factors and key risk factors, particularly torture and other potentially traumatic events (PTEs), play in the variation of reported prevalence rates of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression across epidemiologic surveys among postconflict populations worldwide.
Objective To undertake a systematic review and meta-regression of the prevalence rates of PTSD and depression in the refugee and postconflict mental health field.
Data Sources An initial pool of 5904 articles, identified through MEDLINE, PsycINFO and PILOTS, of surveys involving refugee, conflict-affected populations, or both, published in English-language journals between 1980 and May 2009.
Study Selection Surveys were limited to those of adult populations (n ≥ 50) reporting PTSD prevalence, depression prevalence, or both. Excluded surveys comprised patients, war veterans, and civilian populations (nonrefugees/asylum seekers) from high-income countries exposed to terrorist attacks or involved in distal conflicts (≥25 years).
Data Extraction Methodological factors (response rate, sample size and design, diagnostic method) and substantive factors (sociodemographics, place of survey, torture and other PTEs, Political Terror Scale score, residency status, time since conflict).
Data Synthesis A total of 161 articles reporting results of 181 surveys comprising 81 866 refugees and other conflict-affected persons from 40 countries were identified. Rates of reported PTSD and depression showed large intersurvey variability (0%-99% and 3%-85.5%, respectively). The unadjusted weighted prevalence rate reported across all surveys for PTSD was 30.6% (95% CI, 26.3%-35.2%) and for depression was 30.8% (95% CI, 26.3%-35.6%). Methodological factors accounted for 12.9% and 27.7% PTSD and depression, respectively. Nonrandom sampling, small sample sizes, and self-report questionnaires were associated with higher rates of mental disorder. Adjusting for methodological factors, reported torture (Δ total R2 between base methodological model and base model + substantive factor [ΔR2] = 23.6%; OR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.52-2.65) emerged as the strongest factor associated with PTSD, followed by cumulative exposure to PTEs (ΔR2 = 10.8%; OR, 1.52; 95% CI, 1.21-1.91), time since conflict (ΔR2 = 10%; OR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.66-0.91), and assessed level of political terror (ΔR2 = 3.5%; OR, 1.60; 95% CI, 1.03-2.50). For depression, significant factors were number of PTEs (ΔR2 = 22.0%; OR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.39-1.93), time since conflict (ΔR2 = 21.9%; OR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.69-0.93), reported torture (ΔR2 = 11.4%; OR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.07-2.04), and residency status (ΔR2 = 5.0%; OR, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.07-1.57).
Conclusion Methodological factors and substantive population risk factors, such as exposure to torture and other PTEs, after adjusting for methodological factors account for higher rates of reported prevalence of PTSD and depression.
Mass conflict and displacement continue to affect large numbers of people worldwide.1 In 2007, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees documented 16 million refugees, 26 million internally displaced persons, and 12 million stateless persons.2 Yet controversy about the mental health needs of conflict-exposed populations persists,3 a problem that is magnified by the wide variability in rates of the most commonly studied psychiatric conditions among affected populations, namely, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. Prevalence rates for PTSD have ranged from 0% in a conflict-affected region of Iran4 to 99% in Sierra Leone5 and between 3% and 86% for depression across surveys.6,7 Identifying the potential methodological and substantive factors that are associated with this variation is vital to determining with any accuracy rates of mental health problems of conflict-affected populations.
Methodological factors, particularly the approach used for sampling and diagnosis, appear to exert a large influence on the prevalence rates yielded by surveys.8 An outstanding question, however, is whether exposure to torture accounts for a significant variation in prevalence, even when methodological factors are taken into account. Torture is a common form of human rights violation, being documented in more than 132 countries worldwide.9,10 Yet controversy persists as to the extent of the adverse psychological consequences of torture,11,12 a contentious issue that extends to other potentially traumatic events (PTEs).13,14 A small body of studies focusing specifically on torture survivors has observed high rates of PTSD and depression, but most of these investigations have been based on convenience samples and nonrandom case-control designs.9,15- 17 There is value therefore in examining the larger body of epidemiologic surveys in which torture and other PTEs18,19 are included in the factors assessed to gauge the relative importance of the former type of abuse on mental health among populations exposed to mass conflict.
This study represents the first meta-regression focusing on the largest to date set of epidemiologic surveys in the refugee and postconflict mental health field. The study goals were (1) to assess the influence of methodological factors and substantive population risk factors in accounting for variation in rates of PTSD and depression across surveys and (2) to evaluate the importance of substantive factors on the prevalence of reported PTSD and depression, namely, levels of reported exposure to torture and other PTEs, sociodemographic characteristics, country of origin, time since conflict, security of residency, and the level of terror in the recovery environment, after controlling for methodological factors.
We searched MEDLINE and PsycINFO to identify published articles reporting the prevalence of depression or PTSD among refugee, conflict-affected populations, or both.20 Populations were identified as being from conflict-affected countries if the country was subject to armed conflict or widespread organized violence. The search applied optimum mental health search criteria by combining Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) with text-based search terms21 and followed the Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology reporting guidelines.22 Mental health content was identified using the MeSH headings for mental health and mental disorders; articles with refugees were identified using MeSH and text key words for refugees; MeSH headings were also used to identify articles indexed by war, genocide, holocaust, terrorism, or torture. Because of minor inconsistencies in database key words, we generated individualized search criteria for MEDLINE and PsycINFO. In addition, we searched PILOTS,23 a bibliographic index providing a comprehensive list of articles and other publications on posttraumatic stress applying the following key words: refugees, asylum seekers, displaced persons, internally displaced person, genocide, holocaust, persecution, torture. Inclusion criteria were articles published between 1980 and May 2009 in the English language; surveys assessing the prevalence of PTSD, depression, or both among displaced, conflict-affected populations, or both; surveys of adults 18 years or older; and a sample size of 50 or more. We excluded countries at war in which the main arena of combat was external to the national borders. We also did not include countries exposed to single or multiple (but geographically circumscribed) human-instigated disasters and terrorist attacks in high-income countries because in those settings the general civilian population is not exposed to a wide range of traumas associated with war and rates of torture are likely to be negligible. Some studies needed careful consideration in relation to our inclusion criteria. In particular, studies involving Palestinian populations residing in Gaza and other parts of Palestine were eligible given the high level of combat and organized violence that has occurred in civilian settings in those locations. Studies undertaken in Israel proper were excluded, however, because they focused primarily on members of the military or on a single category of trauma, usually exposure to terrorist attacks, affecting a minority of the population.24 Other exclusion criteria were combatants in armed forces, clinic samples unless recruited by screening of the target population, and populations exposed to PTEs 25 years or more before the survey.
The Figure shows the relevant articles extracted from MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and PILOTS, yielding a total of 3541 nonduplicate articles. After an initial screen of the titles and abstracts and a subsequent screen of text of remaining eligible articles, 161 articles remained, providing data for 181 surveys (eTable 1; eTable 2 presents reasons for exclusion of omitted articles; and eTable 3 provides bibliographical references for all articles). For prospective surveys, the baseline data set was used except in 2 instances25- 27 in which superior assessment tools were applied in the second survey. Where nonconflict affected populations were included as comparison groups, only data from the conflict-affected sample were extracted.
PTSD indicates posttraumatic stress disorder.
Data extraction included methodological factors and population risk factors (or substantive factors). The methodological data extracted from each survey included sample size, sampling method (probability survey in which every member of the target population had a known likelihood of inclusion; census survey in which all members of the target population were surveyed either by consecutive recruitment or by total population survey; special population survey in which participants were identified because they shared a common feature, such as having been a political prisoner; and mixed sampling survey including partially representative sampling, linkage sampling, convenience sampling, or volunteer samples), response rate, time period of symptoms (point prevalence [current-1 month]; period prevalence [6-12 months or lifetime]), and type of measure (self-report questionnaire or diagnostic interview). We corresponded with the authors of 19 surveys to obtain additional data, with information being provided by 15 authors. The substantive factors extracted included reported prevalence of PTSD, depression, or both; sex (% female); source country, country in which the survey was undertaken; the year(s) of data collection; time since resettlement in another country or since the cessation of major hostilities as determined by information provided by the study authors or by reference to the Political Terror Scale (PTS)28; and residency status (not displaced, displaced internally or externally to the source country, living in a refugee camp, or resettled in a high-income country).
Where data were available, we recorded the percentage of respondents who reported torture. Because the list of other PTEs assessed varied across surveys, we derived an adversity ratio (the average number of PTEs endorsed divided by the total number of PTEs assessed). Level of political violence in a source country was based on the PTS.28 PTS provides an annual assessment of the level of state terror and political violence on a 5-point rating scale based on data collected by Amnesty International and the US State Department country reports. Scores of 4 or higher designate countries in which violence has been rated as affecting large sections of the population, and where reports of murders, disappearances, and torture are common. PTS data were available from 1976 onwards.
We used SAS version 9.1.329 to conduct the meta-regression analyses, examining sequentially the association of methodological factors and substantive factors with reported rates of PTSD and depression. The rates of PTSD and depression were transformed into logits. The Delta method was applied to compute within-study variance, namely, var(logit) = 1/case + 1/non_case.30 Interstudy heterogeneity was examined using the Cochran Q test and I2 index.31 We applied a mixed model with fixed and random-effects components. For the PTSD model, we identified 69% power (based on n = 144, t = 2.21; odds ratio [OR], 1.62; P < .01) to generate a minimally significant OR (1.48 or P < .05); for depression, 87% power (based on n = 117, t = 2.93; OR, 1.91; P < .001) was identified for a minimally significant OR (1.51 or P < .05). The within-study variance was specified using the "parms" statement.29 Tables present the additive variance for each model and the Wald-based ORs and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Regression logits were back-transformed and expressed as absolute prevalence estimates (ie, they were not relative to the reference group). Adjusted prevalence rates have only been reported for variable strata with 5 or more surveys. Population attributable risk (PAR) percentages were calculated according to the formula:
where pi = proportion of population in n categories (i), ORi = odds ratio in each n category (i), and (l) = low exposure category. The PAR% can be interpreted as the percentage of the observed difference of PTSD or depression between the high and low categories that is attributable to the designated methodological or substantive risk factor.
Meta-regression models were calculated as follows. Step 1: For estimates of PTSD and depression, univariable mixed-effects models were calculated to identify methodological determinants of between-study variance. Next, a forward selection procedure including all statistically significant methodological variables was used to construct a multivariable mixed-effects methodological model. This was used as the base methodological model in examining substantive predictor models. Step 2: Meta-regression models examining the association between interstudy variance in PTSD and depression and each substantive factor were next calculated adjusting for the base multivariable methodological model. Step 3: A series of regression models were then calculated to provide average weighted prevalence estimates for PTSD and depression associated with the stratification of methodological and substantive factors.
To ensure adequate power, we dichotomized all variables to produce a series of 2 × 2 cross classifications as follows: (a) methodological: (i) sampling method by sample size; (ii) sampling method by measure; and (iii) measure by sample size; (b) methodological and substantive: (i) torture by sampling method; (ii) torture by sample size; (iii) PTE ratio by sampling method; and (iv) PTE ratio by sample size; and (c) substantive: (i) torture by time since exposure; (ii) torture by PTS level; (iii) PTE ratio by time since exposure; and (iv) PTE ratio by PTS level. As with the substantive factors examined in step 2, all of the substantive models listed in (c) were adjusted for the baseline methodological model identified in step 1.
The 161 articles yielded diagnostic information for 181 surveys that included 81 866 persons from 40 source countries. Study characteristics are shown in eTable 1. A total of 122 surveys (n = 62 069) were undertaken in low- and middle-income countries and 59 surveys (n = 19 797) with refugees and asylum seekers residing in high-income countries. Twenty-five surveys (n = 9856) were undertaken during the 1980s, 73 (n = 29 684) in the 1990s, and 83 (n = 42 326) in the 2000s. Sample sizes ranged from 50 to more than 4000 (median, 201). Reported response rates ranged from 27% to 100% (median, 90.3%); 56 surveys did not report response rates. Reported prevalence rates for PTSD and depression varied widely, from 0% to 99% for PTSD and 3% to 85.5% for depression.
The population prevalence of reported torture was recorded in 84 surveys (n = 42 626), with an estimated prevalence of 21% (95% CI, 17%-26%), an estimate that remained unchanged after excluding surveys specifically targeting torture survivors (n = 7). Population exposure to 1 or more other PTEs was recorded in 120 surveys (n = 55 101), with a weighted average adversity ratio of 0.29 (interquartile range [IQR], 0.16-0.42) (on average, 29% of the total number of PTEs assessed were endorsed across surveys). PTS scores were available for 125 surveys (n = 66 862), with an average weighted PTS score of 4.0 (IQR, 3.0-5.0) for source countries at the time each survey was undertaken. Forty-six surveys (37%; n = 22 582) had PTS scores higher than 4.0, indicating that political violence and terror were pervasive, affecting the majority of the population; 36 surveys (29%; n = 17 715) had PTS scores between 3.1 and 4.0, indicating reports of extensive civil and political rights violations directed against large sections of the population; and 43 surveys (34%; n = 16 528) had a PTS score of 3.0 or lower, indicating reports of political violence and imprisonment targeted against specific subsections of the population.
A total of 145 surveys (n = 64 332) reported PTSD prevalence estimates based on 21 different measures eTable 4), with the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire32 the most commonly used instrument, followed by the Composite International Diagnostic Interview33 and the PTSD Checklist.34 Rates of PTSD showed large intersurvey variability (0%-99%) and heterogeneity (Q = 6119, df = 144, P < .001; I2 = 97.6%), necessitating the use of random-effect regression models.31 The eFigure provides a funnel plot of prevalence by sample size indicating a pattern of asymmetry, with the largest survey samples returning the most conservative prevalence estimates.35 The funnel plot does not support the likelihood of publication bias with the distribution of prevalence estimates across smaller surveys showing no evidence of reduced reporting in the low-prevalence spectrum. The random-effects model returned an overall weighted prevalence of reported PTSD across the 145 relevant surveys of 30.6% (95% CI, 26.3%-35.2%) (Table 1).
Methodological Factors. Table 1 shows the methodological factors associated with PTSD prevalence. Sample size accounted for 9.1% of the variance across surveys. The 17 surveys sampling 1001 or more persons produced the lowest PTSD prevalence estimates (15.7%; 95% CI not available as n > 1000 surveys indexed as reference group), with the rates increasing with progressively smaller samples. For example, the 37 surveys with 100 respondents or less produced a weighted PTSD prevalence estimate of 39.4% (95% CI, 24.3%-56.7%). The PAR comparing large (n > 1000) and small surveys (n < 100) suggested that 43.0% of the observed change in prevalence in the latter group could be attributed to sample size.
Sampling method also emerged as relevant, accounting for 4.4% of intersurvey variance; probability sampling (26.6%) yielded smaller prevalence estimates than surveys applying mixed, nonprobabilistic sampling approaches (37.2%; 95% CI, 26.7%-49.1%). Moreover, PTSD assessments based on self-report questionnaires (34.6%; 95% CI, 25.6%-44.8%) produced estimates 10 percentage points higher than those applying diagnostic interviews (24.6%) with a PAR of 24.9%. Higher prevalence estimates were obtained by surveys reporting point prevalence (32.9%) of PTSD vs period prevalence (17.0%; 95% CI, 10.0%-27.6%). Prevalence rates were not influenced by the response rate or calendar year of survey. A final multivariable meta-regression model applying forward selection criteria included sample size and type of measure and accounted for 12.9% of the intersurvey variance in PTSD prevalence.
Substantive Factors Adjusting for Methodological Factors. Sex (% female), site of survey (high-income country or low- and middle-income country), and residency status were not associated with PTSD prevalence rates, after adjusting for methodological factors. Seventy-seven surveys included data for reported exposure to torture. Torture accounted for the greatest intersurvey variance in reported PTSD (23.6%), after adjusting for methodological factors. Surveys undertaken in which 40% or more of the sample had reported a history of torture returned a weighted average prevalence for PTSD of 46.2% (95% CI, 33.0%-60.0%), 4 times (OR, 4.03; 95% CI, 2.31-7.04) the rate of that obtained from surveys with the lowest rates of torture (≤19% of the sample). The PTE adversity ratio could be calculated for 107 surveys and accounted for 10.8% of the method-corrected variance of PTSD. Reported PTSD rates increased from 11.1% for surveys with adversity ratios of 0 to 0.19 (<20% of PTEs endorsed) to 35.5% (95% CI, 20.8%-53.5%) for studies with an adversity ratio of at least 0.40.
The PTS index for the source country was available for 107 surveys and accounted for 3.5% of the variance in PTSD rates. The weighted average prevalence of reported PTSD was 38.5% (95% CI, 28.6%-49.4%) for samples from countries with a PTS score of more than 4.1 compared with 28.1% for countries with a score of 4.0 or lower. Surveys conducted when the primary conflict was ongoing or had ceased for less than 1 year (n = 49) had a PTSD prevalence of 39.9% compared with those conducted subsequently (2-3 years, 22.1%; 3-5 years, 27.0%; ≥6 years, 22.3%). Of the source countries and regions, Vietnam returned the lowest PTSD prevalence estimate (10%), which differed significantly from rates obtained in surveys with populations from or residents in Cambodia (30.3%; 95% CI, 10.6%-61.3%), Bosnia (28.3%; 95% CI, 11.3%-55.0%), Kosovo (31.6%; 95% CI, 11.9%-61.3%), and 16 countries in Africa (33.5%; 95% CI, 14.2%-60.7%).
Serial Combinations of Methodological and Substantive Factors. We examined PTSD prevalence estimates associated with the serial combinations of methodological factors (Table 2). Sampling method was categorized into models using more scientifically rigorous approaches (probability and census-based) in contrast with convenience or mixed-sampling methods. Similarly, sample size was categorized into large (≥500) and small (<500). The surveys (n = 68) applying nonrandom sampling in combination with a sample size of less than 500 returned an average prevalence rate of 37.0% (95% CI, 26.3%-49.3%) compared with other combinations that returned more conservative rates of PTSD. The 2 models examining sampling method and sample size as a product of measurement type identified a subset of large, well-designed surveys applying diagnostic interviews with lower rates of PTSD (15.4% and 13.2%, respectively), approximately half the prevalence rates yielded by other corresponding method combinations. The PAR percentage was more than 50% in both of these models, suggesting that 50% of the increase in prevalence is attributable to method factors.
The next set of models examined torture prevalence and then PTE ratio by sample size and sampling method (Table 2). A consistent pattern emerged across all 4 models examined, indicating that surveys with populations recording high levels of exposure to torture (≥40%) or cumulative exposure to PTEs (ratio ≥0.3) returned substantially higher PTSD prevalence estimates than those surveys recording lower exposure to either of these 2 factors, irrespective of the sample size or sampling method used.
Further analyses examined for an association of torture and PTE according to the time lapsed since cessation of major hostilities or resettlement and the country level of political terror at the time of the survey (Table 2). The cross-product of torture and time since conflict accounted for 21.1% of interstudy variance in PTSD. The trend line (OR, 1.61; 95% CI, 1.30-2.01) supported a significant linear increase in risk in the expected direction. Samples with the highest exposure to torture (≥40%) that were proximate in time to the conflict (<3 years) returned the highest weighted prevalence of PTSD (53.5%; 95% CI, 36.8%-69.5%). There was an incremental reduction in prevalence for the other derived categories: high torture but extended time (44.4%; 95% CI, 27.7%-62.5%); low torture, recent exposure (26.6%; 95% CI, 17.0%-38.9%); and low torture, extended time (22.3%). A similar pattern emerged for the cross-product of time × PTE adversity ratio, which accounted for a smaller (11.1%) yet significant proportion of interstudy variance in PTSD.
The likelihood of a survey recording higher PTSD prevalence also showed a linear increase when examining the cross-product of torture and the PTS index of country level violence, ranging from 19.2% for surveys conducted in populations recording lower torture rates in countries with lower levels of political terror to a high of 53.5% (95% CI, 36.8%-69.5%) in the greatest torture-exposed populations from countries with the highest ongoing political terror. There was an average 69% (OR, 1.69; 95% CI, 1.37-2.10) increase in PTSD odds across the 4 strata assessed. A similar pattern emerged for cumulative PTE exposure and political terror.
We examined the level of within-strata heterogeneity using the Cochran Q test and I2 index for the cross-products shown in Table 2. Across all strata reported, the Cochran Q test remained statistically significant with the I2 index ranging between 93.1% and 99.6%, indicating substantial interstudy heterogeneity in reported PTSD prevalence.
A total of 117 surveys (n = 57 796) reported the prevalence of depression. Rates of depression ranged from 3.0% to 85.5%, reflecting a substantial degree of heterogeneity (Q = 10 793, df = 116, P = .001; I2 = 98.9%). The most common assessment tool was the Hopkins Symptom Checklist,36 followed by the Composite International Diagnostic Interview33 and the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM37 (eTable 4). The eFigure provides a funnel plot for depression prevalence by sample size. As with PTSD, there was evidence of asymmetry with the largest survey samples returning conservative prevalence estimates.35 There was no suggestion that the distribution of prevalence estimates across smaller surveys represented underreporting in the low-prevalence spectrum. Table 3 presents the results from the random-effects regression models, yielding an adjusted weighted prevalence for depression of 30.8% (95% CI, 26.3%-35.6%) across the 117 surveys.
Methodological Factors. Sample size accounted for 14.6% of the total interstudy variance in the depression prevalence. Surveys based on at least 1001 respondents reported substantially lower depression estimates (13.3%) than those with smaller numbers, resulting in a PAR of 55.1% (Table 3). Surveys using nonprobabilistic sampling strategies produced the highest prevalence estimates (46.9%; 95% CI, 35.0%-59.2%) compared with probability samples (27.3%) and small census surveys (21.2%; 95% CI, 12.3%-34.1%). Surveys that used a self-report questionnaire yielded higher prevalences (36.7%; 95% CI, 27.3%-47.2%) than those applying diagnostic interview (23.2%; OR, 1.91; 95% CI, 1.24-2.95). With regard to diagnostic time frame, point prevalence (34.8%) was associated with a higher prevalence of depression than period prevalence (OR, 0.40; 95% CI, 0.24-0.68; prevalence, 17.6%; 95% CI, 11.2%-26.5%). The multivariable method model, including sample size, sampling method, and measure type, accounted for 27.7% of interstudy variance in depression estimates.
Some measures, such as the General Health Questionnaire38 and Self Reporting Questionnaire-20,39 although including the construct of depression, also measure other elements of mental disorder, a potential source of interstudy heterogeneity. We recalculated the depression model limiting the analysis to the 97 surveys that used measures designed specifically to assess depression. That analysis failed to alter the level of heterogeneity (Q = 9239, I2 = 99%) or interstudy variance accounted for by methodological factors (31.3%); therefore, further analyses included the larger sample.
Substantive Factors Adjusting for the Methodological Factors. Variables that did not affect the prevalence of depression after adjusting for the methodological factors included sex, place of survey, year of survey, and the PTS rating of county-level violence. The PTE adversity ratio (Δ total R2 between base methodological model and base model + substantive factor [ΔR2] = 22.0% across 75 surveys) and the rate of torture reported in a survey (ΔR2 = 11.4% across 55 surveys) were significantly associated with prevalence of depression after adjusting for the methodological factors. Surveys with a PTE ratio ranging between 0 and 0.19 returned a weighted depression prevalence of 13.7%, an estimate that increased to 34.8% (95% CI, 23.7%-48.0%) and 40.0% (95% CI, 28.4%-52.9%) in surveys with a PTE adversity ratio of more than 0.30 and 0.40, respectively. Surveys in which 40% or more of the respondents reported torture returned a weighted depression prevalence of 49.6% (95% CI, 34.2%-64.9%), higher than in surveys in which less than 20% of respondents reported exposure to that abuse (28.1%).
Reported rates of depression also showed a pattern of gradual decline with increasing time since the conflict or resettlement to a safe third (mainly western) country (OR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.69-0.93). Populations located in environments free from conflict for at least 6 years had significantly lower rates of depression (19.2%; 95% CI, 13.0%-27.5%) compared with populations in which the primary conflict was ongoing or in which hostilities had ceased for less than 1 year (34.7%). Residency status was also associated with depression, with displaced populations (38.2%; 95% CI, 27.2%-50.5%) and those residing in refugee camps (39.6%; 95% CI, 25.5%-55.5%) having higher rates of depression than refugees resettled to high-income countries (24.1%). In keeping with the PTSD data, the 15 surveys undertaken among populations originating from Vietnam returned the lowest depression rates (15.7%).
Serial Combinations of Methodological and Substantive Factors. Nonrandom sampling, small sample sizes, and use of self-report questionnaires were all individually associated with higher prevalence rates of depression (Table 4). Surveys applying nonrandom sampling and small sample size, or either of these methodological factors in combination with self-report questionnaires, consistently returned the highest prevalence estimates, ranging between 38.9% (95% CI, 21.7%-59.3%) and 43.4% (95% CI, 29.5%-58.4%). The most conservative depression prevalence rates were recorded in the 8 surveys applying diagnostic interviews to samples of more than 500 persons (8.1%; 95% CI, 4.0%-16.0%), followed by the 26 surveys combining diagnostic interviews with representative sampling frames (17.3%; 95% CI, 11.9%-24.5%).
There were insufficient surveys recording high levels of exposure to torture (≥40%) and large sample sizes or probability surveys to generate stable prevalence estimates (n = 4). With respect to cumulative exposure to PTEs, surveys recording a high exposure level (ratio ≥0.3) returned higher depression prevalence estimates than surveys recording lower exposures did, irrespective of the sample size or sampling method used.
We next examined the combined effects of torture and time since conflict, a product that accounted for 20.5% of interstudy variance in the prevalence rates of depression, adjusting for the methodological model across the 53 surveys reporting both sets of data. The trend line supported a significant linear increase in risk across the derived time by torture categories. Samples with the highest exposure to torture (≥40%) had higher rates of depression than those with lower rates of torture exposure, regardless of time since conflict. The importance of time was particularly notable with respect to surveys in the lower torture category (<40%) in which rates were 34.4% (95% CI, 23.0%-48.0%) when the survey was undertaken proximate in time to the conflict (<3 years) in contrast to an average rate of 20.2% for surveys undertaken at least 3 years after resettlement or the cessation of major hostilities. The comparable analysis for the PTE adversity ratio × time also yielded a significant linear trend, accounting for 21.2% of interstudy variance in depression. Surveys with populations endorsing less than 30% of PTEs in which resettlement or cessation of major hostilities occurred 3 years or more previously reported substantially lower rates of depression (15.6%) compared with surveys recording a PTE ratio of 0.3 and above. Due to the absence of an association between PTS and interstudy variance in depression, we did not undertake further analyses using that variable.
We also calculated the within-strata heterogeneity using the Cochran Q test and I2 index for the cross-products shown in Table 4. Across all strata, the Q test remained statistically significant with I2 index ranging between 92.5% and 99.6%, indicating substantial interstudy heterogeneity in depression prevalence.
Our study addressed a range of issues in the field of refugee and postconflict mental health. First, there has been a need to explain the large differences in rates of PTSD and depression that have emerged from epidemiologic surveys. Second, controversy has persisted about the association of torture and other PTEs with mental disorder across culturally and ethnically diverse populations.11,40
Two previous quantitative reviews8,41 and a series of qualitative reviews15,42- 44 have been undertaken in the field. Fazel et al8 analyzed 20 surveys focusing specifically on refugees resettled in high-income countries and found that methodological factors, including sample size and type of diagnostic measure used, influenced prevalence rates, as did contextual influences including length of resettlement. Porter and Haslam41 and Porter45 derived an effect size index of psychological distress from the heterogeneous outcome measures used in a subset of 59 surveys that compared a displaced population with a nondisplaced control group. Rates of distress were influenced both by methodological as well as ecological-social variables, including restricted economic opportunity, insecure housing, and location of residency. Our review incorporates a larger body of surveys comprising a population of 81 866 persons from 40 source countries and included an assessment of the association between torture and other PTEs and the prevalence of PTSD and depression.
The surveys reviewed suggest that torture is endemic in countries affected by pervasive conflict, with respondents in 29 of 40 source countries reporting exposure. In total, 21% of participants in 84 surveys reported personal experiences of torture. The analysis shows that torture and other PTEs are associated with mental disorder across these settings. After adjusting for methodological factors, reported torture accounted for the highest intersurvey variance of PTSD among the substantive factors (23.6%). Torture also emerged as an important source of variance in depression rates, accounting for 11.4% of the method-adjusted interstudy variance.
Cumulative exposure to PTEs emerged as a high source of intersurvey variance for PTSD and depression but was most strongly associated with the latter outcome. For depression, the PTE adversity ratio was the strongest substantive factor (22% of method-adjusted interstudy variance). The PTEs experienced by refugees and other conflict-affected groups often involve multiple losses and deprivations that, in lesser form in civilian settings, have been reported to be associated with depression.46,47 In addition, the findings consolidate those of individual surveys showing a dose-response effect for PTEs in relation to both depression and PTSD.48,49 There was a tendency toward reduction in mental health risk associated with cumulative PTE exposure as the length of time since conflict or resettlement increased.50
PTSD increasingly is conceptualized not simply as a condition triggered by life-threatening PTEs but one that is shaped by conditions of ongoing threat or insecurity.51,52 To our knowledge, our study is the first to include a society-wide index of terror, the PTS,28 that is independent of the reports of individual respondents. The association yielded, albeit modest, between political terror and the prevalence of PTSD therefore provides confirmation of the association between the general state of political violence in a country at the time and mental health identified by individual self-reports.
The results also support the notion that broader ecological-social factors interact with personal exposure to PTEs in shaping mental health responses.18,53 Populations that were displaced within or external to the source country or living in a refugee camp had higher rates of PTSD than those that were permanently resettled in another country. These data may inform policies and strategies that focus on improving conditions in the recovery environment in mitigating the mental health effects of mass conflict and displacement.54
Methodological characteristics of surveys accounted for 13% and 28% of the interstudy variance in PTSD and depression, respectively. These findings provide guidance for future researchers in designing surveys in the field. Nonrandom sampling, small sample sizes, and use of self-report questionnaires all tend to generate higher prevalence rates. Self-report questionnaires generate point prevalence estimates, explaining the seemingly anomalous finding that 12-month and lifetime prevalence estimates (based on diagnostic interviews) yielded lower prevalence rates.
The weighted prevalence estimates derived from the subset of methodologically robust surveys may provide the most accurate indicator of PTSD and depression rates among conflict-affected populations included in our review. These rates ranged between 13% and 25% for PTSD and are broadly comparable with the World Health Organization's estimate of 20% for the median prevalence of mental disorder that may be expected in societies exposed to humanitarian emergencies.55 An important corollary, however, is that the rate of disorder will depend on the population exposure to the identified risk factors which, as indicated by our analysis, exert a substantial effect on prevalence. Such projections in turn need to be moderated by the recognition that there remains substantial intersurvey heterogeneity in reported prevalence estimates even for surveys using similar methodologies among populations exposed to comparable levels of identified risk factors.
A number of potential limitations exist in our analysis. We have not examined the extent to which the instruments used in the surveys were culturally validated for the specific populations in which they were applied. Shown previously,56 criterion validity has rarely been tested in population-based refugee samples. There is an ongoing debate as to whether measures of common psychological reaction patterns such as depressive symptoms measure disorder or distress.14,57 Although many other mental health variables are salient,54 our review focused only on depression and PTSD, because these are the outcome indices that have been studied sufficiently. The assessment of torture across the majority of surveys reviewed was reliant on self-reports, most commonly based on endorsement of the torture item on the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire,32 leaving open the possibility of variation in personal understandings of the term. The effect of cumulative exposure to PTEs was assessed by the ratio of the population PTE count by the total number of PTEs assessed. The index provides a relative measure of PTE exposure that may obscure the absolute number of PTE events reported. Moreover, the index does not assess the subjective component of PTE exposure.58 Our review was limited to surveys conducted with displaced, conflict-affected populations, or both. In defining this group of surveys, we excluded the subset of studies focusing on terrorist-affected populations in high-income countries. Thus, we cannot generalize our findings (eg, the prevalence rate of torture identified) to other countries affected by different patterns of violence.
Our review also was limited to surveys published in the peer-reviewed English-language literature. Funnel plots did not provide evidence of publication bias.35 Publication bias may be less of a threat to the validity of meta-analytic surveys focusing on observational surveys than it is to reviews of randomized controlled trials.59,60 Nevertheless, there was asymmetry across studies, with larger samples returning more conservative prevalence estimates. The nationally representative population surveys61- 64 from conflict-affected populations all returned low PTSD prevalence estimates, suggesting that the effects of conflict and displacement are not evenly distributed across societies. Finally, the meta-analytic procedures used are limited to the examination of predictors of interstudy variability only and not within-survey variation.65 Initial testing of the present data identified substantial interstudy heterogeneity in prevalence estimates, necessitating the use of random-effects models. The regression models therefore applied more conservative error parameters, which may underestimate the strength of association of some variables.
The results of our analysis indicate that variation in prevalence rates of reported PTSD and depression across surveys can be explained both by methodological factors (sampling and the choice of diagnostic instruments) and substantive risk factors. After adjustment for methodological factors, torture emerged as the strongest substantive factor associated with PTSD and cumulative exposure to PTEs was the strongest substantive factor associated with depression.
Considered as a whole, our findings should encourage researchers to use more methodologically rigorous and valid survey designs when conducting mental health assessments in postconflict settings. These findings should also assist health professionals in their efforts to advocate against human rights abuses and the implementation of international treaties prohibiting the use of torture, to highlight the mental health needs of affected populations, and at an international level to encourage policy makers to ensure that refugees and conflict-affected societies worldwide are assured of secure and supportive recovery environments.54
Corresponding Author: Zachary Steel, PhD, MClinPsych, Center for Population Mental Health Research, Level 1, Mental Health Center, The Liverpool Hospital, Corner of Forbes and Campbell Streets, Liverpool NSW 2170, Australia (email@example.com).
Author Contributions: Dr Steel had full access to all of the data in the study and takes responsibility for the integrity of the data and the accuracy of the data analysis.
Study concept and design: Steel, Silove.
Acquisition of data: Steel, Marnane.
Analysis and interpretation of data: Steel, Chey, Marnane, Bryant, van Ommeren.
Drafting of the manuscript: Steel, Chey, Silove, Bryant, van Ommeren.
Critical revision of the manuscript for important intellectual content: Steel, Chey, Silove, Marnane, Bryant, van Ommeren.
Statistical analysis: Steel, Chey, Marnane.
Obtained funding: Silove, Bryant.
Administrative, technical, or material support: Steel, Chey, Silove, Marnane.
Study supervision: Steel, Silove, Bryant.
Financial Disclosures: None reported.
Funding/Support: This work was supported by grant 300403 from the National Health and Medical Research Council Program.
Role of the Sponsor: The National Health and Medical Research Council Program had no role in the design and conduct of the study; in the the collection, management, analysis, and interpretation of the data; or in the preparation, review, or approval of the manuscript.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the authors solely and do not necessarily represent the views, policies, and decisions of their employers.
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I would like to hear how other people's first experience at a retreat was. I want to know whether it was easy for you or was it difficult your first time.
It was very easy.
However . . . some people are not really sure they want to be on retreat . . .
I remember a weekend retreat I went on. Someone was at the gates which were locked. She tugged at them and said, 'The gate is locked. No bell. I think the retreat is canceled!' and began to walk away . . .
I turned the handle and pushed. The gate was open.
So she had made the initial effort but looked rather disappointed the gate was in fact open . . .
As for the chanting and walking and sitting meditation. I consider that a holiday. I have never had a difficulty having a holiday . . .


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Unseasonably cold weather this weekend could harm fruit trees and some garden plants, according to local horticulture experts.
The area will see below normal temperatures for much of next week, beginning with the mercury dipping to around 30 for the next few late nights and early mornings, said Lara Pagano, a duty forecaster with the National Weather Service in Newport.
The temperatures will be extremely low for this time of year in Jacksonville and New Bern, she said.
During the day the temperature will rise to around 50 with rain expected on Sunday. High temperatures will then hang around 50 degrees next week, Pagano said.
The cold snap will mean loss of flowers for fruit trees and some plants could die, gardening experts said.
George Smith, a landscape designer with Grants Creek Nursery, said there wasn't much that could be done for flowering trees.
"The cold will kill off a few flowers, but overall the trees should be OK," he said.
The trees should have more blooms and bear fruit as long as a deep freeze doesn't last, Smith said.
Frost damage depends upon length of frost duration, according to the Farmers' Almanac.
A light freeze — 29 degrees to 32 degrees Fahrenheit — will kill tender plants with little destructive effect on other vegetation. A moderate freeze — 25 degrees to 28 degrees — means wide destruction on most vegetation with heavy damage to fruit blossoms and tender semi-hardy plants. A severe freeze — less than 24 degrees — will cause heavy damage to most plants, all according to the Almanac.
The N.C. Cooperative Extension suggests gardeners not plant crops such as tomatoes or peppers until after April 21.
Crops already in the ground like lettuce and cabbage should fare decently against any minor frost, but a heavy freeze may kill them, said Lisa Rayburn, a horticulturist with the Extension.
Rayburn said gardeners should cover the crops with plastic. Make sure the plastic is off the crops by using sticks to prop the plastic up, and make sure the plastic reaches to the ground. Moist soil will generate heat when covered in plastic, which will keep the crops beneath the plastic warm.
Contact Daily News Senior Reporter Lindell Kay at 910-219-8455 or firstname.lastname@example.com. Follow him on Twitter and friend him on Facebook @ 1lindell.


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