text:
|Monday to Friday
|9am - 8pm
|9am - 6pm
|Sunday & Bank Hols
|10am - 4pm
Susan works as editorial assistant and researcher on personal finance stories. She also writes on a number of breaking news stories, as well as offering great money saving tips to shopping-savvy consumers.
Clear weather conditions, car parks and A-roads are the biggest causes of accidents for company car drivers, new research shows.
According to figures from Total Accident Management, 53% of high mileage company car drivers have accidents in clear weather. One in 10 accidents occur in car parks and almost a third (29%) occur on major and minor A-roads.
A poll, which collected results from April 2011 to May 2012, found that business drivers have collision rates which are 30% to 40% higher than private drivers.
Weather is not a huge contributing factor to accident rates as a number of business drivers have car calamities in clear weather.
Amanda Mullans, from Total Accident Management said: "If companies and their drivers can be made more aware of how different road types, weather conditions and other external factors have on driving safety, I am sure employers would ensure their employees take appropriate care when driving on company business."
The poll found that the most accidents were recorded on major A-roads(20%) and 11% on B-roads. Some 9% of accidents occurred on minor A-roads. Only 2.27% of accidents took place on motorways.
Although vehicles typically travel at slower speeds in car parks a massive 105 of accidents take place there. In most cases (17%) of incidents involved a driver hitting a parked vehicle, while just over 15% of accidents were as a result of drivers hitting a vehicle in the rear.
A number of drivers who hire cars for business are also at risk of accidents. Car hire excess insurance is typically designed to pay the excess should an accident occur in a rented vehicle.
You can search and compare car hire and car hire excess hire insurance with MoneyMaxim's comparison tool.
- Hiring a car after 8th June 2015? Read this to understand how changes to driving licences will affect car hire.
- Energy Market Update April 2015
- How to protect yourself if your Mobile Phone is stolen - avoid bill shock
- Reclaim Credit on your Gas and Electricity Bills
- Credit Unions – replacing the banks for day to day saving and borrowing?
- Student Insurance – Are You Ready For Freshers?
- Travelling to South Africa with children? Take their birth certificates!
- Standalone Car Hire Insurance Policies – "I'm Sold"!
- Top Tips for Stress Free Car Hire – Picking up your Car


text:
John Aravosis
Follow me on Twitter: @aravosis | @americablog | @americabloggay | Facebook | Google+ | LinkedIn. John Aravosis is the former editor of AMERICAblog, which he founded in 2004. He has a joint law degree (JD) and masters in Foreign Service from Georgetown (1989); and worked in the US Senate, World Bank, Children's Defense Fund, and as a stringer for the Economist. Frequent TV pundit: O'Reilly Factor, Hardball, World News Tonight, Nightline & Reliable Sources. Bio, article archive.
I'll have some of what these boys were smoking… That looks an awful lot of fun!!
Oh that's right!
didn't monty python try this. only they blew up people, didn't they? mrs. smegma, will you stand up please?
don't stand up, mrs. smegma!! don't stand up!!
I have to admit, I always loved blowing stuff up (in a non-"you left the word 'liberty' out of the Pledge" kind of way).
Hahaha…That's fun time!
News (everything)
Fun Stuff

subset: commoncrawl


text:
New York State Library
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[[Image:New York State Cultural Center2.jpg|thumb|right|350px|New York State Cultural Education Center. Includes the State Archives, Library, and Museum.]]
[[Image:New York State Cultural Center2.jpg|thumb|right|350px|New York State Cultural Education Center. Includes the State Archives, Library, and Museum.]]
=== Contact Information ===
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{{New York|New York}}
{{New York|New York}}
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[[Category:United_States_Repositories|{{PAGENAME}}]] [[Category:New_York|{{PAGENAME}}]]
Revision as of 19:35, 27 March 2012
United States New York New York Archives and LibrariesNew York State Library
Contact Information
E-mail: Use the form at the Contact link to email reference requests to the library. Read their instructions about making requests.[1]
Telephone: ((518) 474-5355 - General information. Local History/Genealogy Desk - (518) 474-5161 [1]
Hours and holidays: The library's reference desk can be reached from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, except holidays. Material is retrieved for research at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. daily. Some collections, however, are stored off-site and may require several business days to retrieve. Arrangements should be made prior to visiting the Library.
Directions, maps, and public transportation: {Optional}
Internet sites and databases:
Collection Description [1]
The New York State Library has several areas of interest to family history researchers.
The Local History and Genealogy Section which includes:
The Manuscripts and Special Collections The Manuscripts and Special Collections Unit of the NYSL, established in 1881, contains manuscripts, rare books, maps and atlases, prints and photographs, broadsodes and posters.
{Optional: Internet or guide books describing this collection for genealogists. }
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If you cannot visit or find a source at the New York State Library, a similar source may be available at one of the following.
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In the FamilySearch Research Wiki, you can learn how to do genealogical research or share your knowledge with others.Learn More


text:
Last night, Rihanna and Chris Brown made their first public outing since Rihanna confirmed they were back together last month.
Rihanna was wearing a diamond band on her engagement finger last night. Copyright [PA/Getty]
Rihanna and Chris Brown attended the Grammys together and looked every inch the loved up couple as they cosied up together during the ceremony.
[Related article: Rihanna and Chris Brown's Grammys PDA]
[Related article: Rihanna confirms she's back with Chris Brown]
However, as Rihanna took to the stage to perform, it was clear that the singer was wearing a diamond ring on her engagement finger.
Cue all sorts of worrying thoughts about Chris Brown proposing to her, and the pair actually getting married.
Rihanna and Chris Brown were very cosy last night. Copyright [Rex]And it seems we weren't the only ones concerned that the pair could be engaged.
Tweeters were quick to comment, with one saying: "Rihanna is wearing a diamond on her left ring finger. Really?"
Another said: "Hope that's just an accessory."
Yes, we hope so too.
Rihanna's diamond band sparked engagement rumours. Copyright [PA]Rihanna and Chris Brown's attendance together at last night's Grammys actually marked four years since he assaulted her at a Grammys pre party.
However, the pair looked happy and relaxed as they sat next to each other last night.
Rihanna confirmed that the romance was back on, saying: "I decided it was more important for me to be happy. I wasn't going to let anybody's opinion get in the way of that. Even if it's a mistake, it's my mistake. After being tormented for so many years, being angry and dark, I'd rather just live my truth and take the backlash. I can handle it."
Hmm, we're not so sure WE can handle an engagement.


text:
General Info
I think I like it here
Share laughs, hugs, and orgasms. And for goodness sake, make out!!!
I am exploring my interests and boundaries in a safe & somewhat anonymous environment.
**NOTICE: All entities, institutions, and individuals using this site or any of its associated sites for business, studies, projects, or other purposes, I DO NOT give permission to use any portion of my profile; neither pictures nor videos posted of me, or of those who have given me permission to reproduce and distribute their images in any form or in any forum both current and future. Nor you do have any freedom to reproduce portions of character presented in profile information or exchanges with users, administrators or guests via email, wall post, or forum posts. If you have or do, it will be considered a violation of my privacy and will be subject to legal ramifications.
Turn Ons
White women
Deep & passionate kisses, nibbles on my neck and ears, gripping hair & having my hair played in, tattoos, a lovely smile, confidence and quick wit.
Asses, either bare or in sexy panties(especially in boyshorts) and stockings!!!
Moaning. Pillow talk/talking dirty. Gentle applications of teeth and nails.
Eating pussy!!
Prominent clits, and nipples. Smaller breasts (A or small B cup). Thick lips on the face and the other place are simply awesome. Androgynous women hold a special place in my lust-locker.
Squirters, light bondage, hair-pulling, spit play, snowballs, breath play, and spanking/being spanked :) Sexually liberated women and men turn me on. I find black fetishists very inspiring. (especially fair-skinned ones because the contrast in skin tones when we are connected is visually stimulating.
I like rear entry (her belly flat on the surface), 69, cowgirl.
Turn Offs
Arrogance. Hypocrisy. Bigotry. Poor hygiene. DL guys.
Mainly sci-fi, romantic-comedies, comedies, crime drama, action, anime, and horror.
I have some.
r&b, hip-hop (Esp.The Roots), jazz, punk, ska, reggae,
mostly sci-fi and espionage, but I love novels!
About myself
BA/BS (4 years college)
Marital Status
Time spent online?
Several hours a day
Tobacco Consumption
I'm a non-smoker
Want kids?
Not sure
About my Partner
Ideal partner
Female within 8 years of my age, either bi or bi-curious and desirous of a non-monogamous relationship.
Looking for
Female, Bi-Couple
Age of partner from
Age of partner to
For Activities
Erotic Chat/Email/Phone Fantasies, Group sex(3 or more), Exhibitionism & Voyeurism
Matters a little
Partners genitals should be
Average, Trimmed to be neat, Completely shaved
Tobacco Preference
I dont want my partner to smoke
Alcohol Preference
I dont mind if my partner drinks lightly
Physical Profile
Best Feature
I like all my bodyparts!
Body Type
6 ft 0 in
Hair Color
Hair Length
Facial Hair
Body Hair
Pubic Hair
Shaved or waxed to be neat
Body Decorations
Earrings, Tattoos
Glasses or Contacts
Sexual Diseases
HIV/AIDS negative and tested regularly, Free from sexually transmitted diseases and tested regularly
Work & Living Environment
Living Arrangement
Live alone
Chinese, Greek, Japanese, Italian, Thai, Vegetarian
Sexual Interests
Favorite sexual fantasy
-I have now lived the experience of being with a squirter!!! =D
-My recent fantasy is to play with a double dildo with my lady, a bit of anal/prostate stim for me, and with anal or vaginal for her. Saw it on a "friend"s" video, and I loved it!
-Anal sex with a black fetishist
-Couples play in the same room and perhaps a bit of swapping.
I want to play in a movie theatre or other public space; Hopefully others will enjoy it, and not call the cops :)
Sexually Daring
I'll try most anything once
Sexual Activities
Butt Play, Exhibitionism, Group Sex, Giving Anal Sex, Giving Oral Sex, Handcuffs/Shackles, Massage, Mutual Masturbation, Naturism/Nudism, Public sex, Receiving Anal Sex, Receiving Oral Sex, Strap-Ons, Threesomes, Toys
Sex, When?
Afternoon, Mornings, Weekends, Evenings, Noon, Late Night, Weekdays
Sex, How often?
At least once a week
Practice Safe Sex
Penetration Only
Most Erogenous zones?
Belly, Butt, Inner thigh, Lips, Neck
Role-playing fantasies
Gravedigger/Corpse, Stranger/stranger, Teacher/Student
A dark back alley, A movie theatre, A moving vehicle, In the nature, A dressing room, A swimming pool/hot tub, An airplane, The beach, Under a waterfall
Dirty talk during sex?
Sometimes I really get into it
Making home videos/pics
Have a few videos of myself
Sexual Accessories
Willing to experiment
Toys, Which?
Anal/Climax beads, Butt plugs/probes, Clit stimulators, Cock ring, Dildos/Vibrators, Strap-ons, Vibrating eggs/bullets
Food for play
Frosting, Ice, Whipped cream
Bondage Gear
Blindfolds, Cock and Ball Toys, Handcuffs/shackles, Silk scarves, and more!
Porn Movies, Which?
Amateur, Anal, Interracial, Lesbian, Rimming, Soft, Transsexual
Porn Movies, With?
By myself, Wish my partner would watch with me
Porn Movies, How often?
Top Comments
All Comments
Great body, hot cock, wow
you are so cute and seem so genuine and romantic ;]
Thanks for all the comments! xo
Obrigada, suas fotos são sexy!!! Você é um gatinho!!!
Obrigada,sim sou brasileira.
Love your whole attitude! Hot body too
I'm not even sure what spring is here in Arizona, lol. It's already really warm. But things are going pretty well for me. Thanks! ;]
Stopping by to say hi! =) Hope you're well.
so lovely to see you, cher ...and what a perfectly wonderful thing to say -thank you xx
Hello my brotha, nice to see another BM with a taste for interracial. Check out the ladies on my friend's list, they all have something in common.
you're still looking nice and sexy
well hi there cher -just stopped by to drop some love on you for visiting and leaving such hot, sexy comments for me ;-)
thanks....you are super sexy...i love a man who appreciates making out.
I am still stretching... The last time was a dead stretch in mid January from 8 to 6g. Now I'm coaxing into a 4g or just go somewhere to jump to 2g. I'm not sure yet. But my biggest jump was from a 14g to 8 within a week and half back in July. Luckily I haven't had a blow out so I'm just playing it safe now. :] Don't know if I wanna go past 0g though, but yours seem pretty nice.
I made your day? That's fantastic. :]
you're part of the reason i came back i hope you're aware can't wait to get off to you some more.
Hi there cher -thanks for the cruise and invite -hope you saw something you like n come back to see me again ;-)
Well wished to you..as well.
I'm always a fan of hot performance - its good to actually feel like the person in front of the camera is enjoying doing what they do for themselves but also indulging their exhibitionist streak. And you are a natural born performer!
it depends on the mood and what i have a taste for but mainly always down for pasta
thanks man i try and definitely stay in touch.
Thanks for being a friend, man! Love your cool profile and hot vids and pics!
and thnak you for noticing and great profile too loved every word; lol im liberated for sure!!! stay in touch
Thanks a lot for the comments and the favorite you have yourself a VERY nice body as well and I'm glad you mentioned Let the right one in!
Thanks for stoppin thru showin some love,once again...
okay then, but as of now I enjoy it all... just seems like white guys are alil more sexually open with things...
I copied and pasted most of my profile on here because I'm lazy. Thanks for the compliment
Thank you! :] :]
Oops! Happy belated Valentine's day. Hope it was fun!
thank you very much, i've been very well, how have you been?
Live Chat:login to chat
that is why I do not prefer condoms
BY: flickerswift
My squirting fetish
BY: flickerswift
Vote on all of my Xtube polls, t...
BY: flickerswift
What qualifies as a small penis?
BY: flickerswift
How often do you remain friends/friendly with your ex-es
BY: flickerswift
What are your feeling on friends men/women remaining platonic
BY: flickerswift
4 years ago
5 years ago


text:
20:0504(58)AR - SSA and AFGE Council No. 147 -- 1985 FLRAdec AR
[ v20 p504 ]
The decision of the Authority follows:
20 FLRA No. 58 SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION Activity and AMERICAN FEDERATION OF GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES, COUNCIL No. 147 Union Case No. 0-AR-1022 ORDER DISMISSING EXCEPTIONS This case is before the Authority on exceptions to the award of Arbitrator C. Chester Brisco filed by the Union pursuant to section 7122(a) of the Federal Service Labor-Management Relations Statute and section 2425.1 of the Authority's Rules and Regulations. By Authority letter dated September 9, 1985, the Union was informed that preliminary examination of the exception disclosed an apparent deficiency in meeting the requirements of the Authority's rules of procedure. Specifically, as was noted in the Authority's letter, the Union's exception failed to comply with section 2425.1(d) of the Regulations which requires that a copy of the exception and any opposition shall be served on the other party. The Union was informed of the specific action it had to take to comply and complete the appeal, and was granted 21 days in which to take that action. The Union was advised that further processing of the exception was contingent upon compliance with the cited provision of the Authority's Regulations and was put on notice that failure to comply within the time limit provid


text:
- News
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- Tech
- Communities
- Video
- Multimedia
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Kiev protesters issue ultimatum after vacating city hall
Published on Feb 17, 2014 1:14 AM
KIEV (AFP) - Hundreds of angry demonstrators in Kiev issued an ultimatum to authorities Sunday, demanding amnesty for fellow activists just hours after vacating the highly symbolic headquarters of a protest movement rocking Ukraine.
"We are issuing an ultimatum to authorities - if they do not immediately announce the complete and unconditional rehabilitation (of protesters) in some 2,000 cases, we will retake city hall," Andriy Illenko, a lawmaker from the nationalist opposition Svoboda (Freedom) party, told protesters.
"This ultimatum expires in several hours," he warned, as around 150 protesters gathered in front of the building, some wearing helmets and army jackets, hitting metal batons on the ground.
The opposition had occupied Kiev's city hall since December as part of anti-government unrest that has raged in Ukraine for close to three months after President Viktor Yanukovych ditched a key EU trade pact in favour of closer ties with Russia.
To continue reading, log in if you are a subscriber
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text:
City Council approves newest CIP
A new Capital Improvement Plan for the next five years was approved during the Sept. 18 Wichita Falls City Council meeting.
The CIP is in its seventh year of approval at the city, and provides a planning document for city staff so they can keep projects in perspective, according to Chief Financial Officer Jim Dockery.
The CIP helps councilors and staff focus on the city's capital budgeting needs over several years. The new CIP is effective from Oct. 1 to Sept. 30, 2017.
Dockery said the planning tool includes about $30 million in projects for the 2012-13 fiscal year. The projects already have approved funding sources, and the city is firmly committed to taking on the projects. However the projects listed are only for planning purposes and do not officially fund all the projects for the next five years. City Councilors have to individually approve funding for the projects.
"It captures our major capital projects which are one time expenditure projects over the next five years," Dockery said. "The first year of funding is approved."
Some of the projects for the 2012-13 fiscal year include replacing the utility billing system that captures water meter readings and keeps track of all city utility customers and processes payments; the municipal court's record keeping system; continuation of the circle trail; equipment for the mowing program on the city's right-of-ways; Phase I of the Municipal Airport terminal, the Wichita Falls Intermodal Travel Center; the McNiel Drainage Project and typical street and line repairs.
At the same City Council meeting, councilors approved in a 1 cent property tax hike which will generate additional revenue. Part of that revenue will be used to mow right-of-ways on state maintained highways. Since the state cut back funding for things such as mowing, the city will now mow more in an effort to keep the right-of-ways within the city's code of ordinances.
"It's a planning tool for council and staff. Some of those projects that are very expensive ... may be on the five year plan, but we haven't yet identified how we're going to pay for them. There (are) future decisions that have to be made as to whether or not those projects get done in year two, three or they get pushed out further," Dockery said.
Some of the projects, like the Travel Center and Municipal airport are planned to begin in the coming months.
Construction on the new airport terminal is expected to begin in late October, early November, and construction on the Travel Center is expected to begin by October.
Subscribe to the Times Record News
Need Help? Call us at 1-877-710-6181.
Monday-Friday: 5:30am-8pm / Saturday: 6am-1pm / Sunday: 6am-1pm


text:
The Leading eBooks Store Online
for Kindle Fire, Apple, Android, Nook, Kobo, PC, Mac, BlackBerry...
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Most popular at the top
Resumes for Science CareersMcGraw-Hill Education 2007; US$ 18.00
Master the science of a well-crafted resume! You've worked hard for your college degree; now it's time to take that education and put it to work. Get an edge on the other job applicants with Resumes for Science Careers , a resource packed with expert advice on creating a concise, stylish resume that will instantly get you noticed. With this... more...
The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Perfect Resume, 5th EditionDK Publishing 2010; US$ 16.95
Resum�: revamped for the times, technology, and the recession... The recession has made finding a job harder than ever. Everything now takes place online, and a resum�'s preparation is different than even a few years ago. This new edition has changed with the times, focusing on what's most important in an electronic resum� full of successful... more...
Planning a Scientific Career in IndustryWiley 2010; US$ 47.95
A handy guide for students seeking a scientific career in industry When choosing a career in industry, many of today's graduates with degrees in science and technology don't know exactly what they are looking for, the options they have available, how to position themselves to achieve their goals, or even how to define their own meanings of success.... more...
Write an Irresistible CV: FlashHodder & Stoughton 2011; US$ 7.65
The books in this bite-sized new series contain no complicated techniques or tricky materials, making them ideal for the busy, the time-pressured or the merely curious. Write an Irresistible CV helps you to write and refine a CV that communicates who you are and shows off your skills, talents and all you have to offer. more...
The 2-Hour Job SearchPotter/TenSpeed/Harmony 2012; US$ 12.99
A job-search manual that gives career seekers a systematic,� tech-savvy formula to efficiently and effectively target potential� employers and secure the essential first interview. The 2-Hour Job Search �shows job-seekers how to work smarter (and faster) to secure first interviews. Through a prescriptive approach, Dalton explains how to wade... more...
Write an Irresistible CV: FlashHodder & Stoughton 2011; Not Available
The books in this bite-sized new series contain no complicated techniques or tricky materials, making them ideal for the busy, the time-pressured or the merely curious. Write an Irresistible CV helps you to write and refine a CV that communicates who you are and shows off your skills, talents and all you have to offer. more...
The Resume HandbookF+W Media 2007; US$ 10.95
Only 1 interview is granted for every 250 resumes received-with The Resume Handbook , you can make sure yours is the one on top! Your resume has one purpose: to obtain an interview. In order to create an interview-winning resume, you need to know what to say and how to say it-and The Resume Handbook will show you how. The book focuses on three... more...
7 Keys to a Winning CVHarriman House 2011; US$ 3.95
Do you want to create a CV but don't know where to start? Have you been out of work for a while and need to get back on the career ladder? Are you confused by the conflicting messages of what makes a good CV? Whether you are on your first, second or tenth CV, this dynamic book provides a very simple step-by-step guide to creating a CV that gets interviews! You... more...
Super Secrets of the Successful JobseekerHarriman House 2012; US$ 13.16
With high unemployment and jobseekers fighting for fewer and fewer jobs it's never been more important to get an edge when looking for that next career move. The right experience and qualifications, a good CV and a nicely worded covering letter are no longer enough - they are the bare minimum! In this book, experienced recruiter Simon Gray explains... more...
What to Say in Every Job Interview: How to Understand What Managers are Really Asking and Give the Answers that Land the JobMcGraw-Hill Education 2013; US$ 16.00
CAROLE MARTIN is a professional interviewer, coach, author, and an expert on the subject of interviewing. She runs www.InterviewCoach.com. more...


text:
After Faucke takes off Jack taps Hurley, Sun and Frank to leave with him, telling them there's no time to explain, they just have to go. Hurley thinks they should stick with Sawyer's plan, "Or he'll be really pissed." Heh. Jack: "This is Sawyer's plan. Let's go!" Claire watches them from a distance, looking nearly as evil as her friend.
Faucke catches up with Shell of Sayid who seems different. (Don't worry, Buffy's gone.) He asks where he's been and what took him so long. Shell of Sayid says he was simply doing what he asked, but, "I just shot an unarmed man. I needed a moment." Since when? Faucke : "Did you kill him, Sayid?" Sayid says of course he did. And then he turns to me and whispers that he's no longer a mere shell, before smiling at Faucke. "Go and check, if you like." There's light in his eyes, a soft lilt to his voice.
Anakin Sayid is BACK, but if Faucke knows, he doesn't let on. "Come on, we have a boat to catch." Sayid waits a moment, making me think he's going to run, but eventually, he follows Faucke, which is a good idea, since you can't really outrun a Smoke Monster, even if you're Sayid Jarrah, action hero.
Jacobites: Frank agrees with me and says he hopes Jack knows where he's going, "Because that smoke thing runs a hell of a lot faster than we do." Word, Frank. Why, I bet he runs faster than Burt Reynolds in The Longest Yard. At first, Jack can't see the dock through the trees, but finally, Hurley spots it, and the Elizabeth. The Jacobites join Kate and Sawyer onboard. Frank asks if they're sailing the boat back home, but Sawyer explains that it won't work without a bearing. "For three years, the only way DHARMA folk ever got on or off this island was by sub, so that's what we're doin'." He then addresses Jack: "Nice job, Doc." Jack faints, falls into the water, and drowns. Okay, not really. Before the crew can set sail, an armed Claire appears at the tree line, rifle at the ready. When she wants to know where they're going, Kate explains that they're leaving the island. Claire thinks it's funny they're not waiting for "John." Kate explains that's because whoever he is, he's not John. I think everyone knows that Kate. Then she dangles the carrot: "Come with us. I can get you back to Aaron." Sawyer swears, but Kate tells him to shut up. "She is coming or I am not." A beat. "Come with us, Claire." Claire hesitates, and starts to explain that John promised to get her back to Aaron, but Kate cuts her off. "No. I'm promising you. I was there when he was born, and I never should have raised him. It should have been you. I came back to get you, so you can be with him again. It's the only reason I came back to the island, Claire. So please come with us. Let's go home." Nicely done, Freckles. Kate relieves Claire of her weapon -- and maybe of her fight, yeah? But Claire does caution: "He finds out where gone? He's gonna be mad." Yeah, but he can't kill all of you, Claire. Well, actually, maybe he can kill you. But there are rules and. Well, I'm sure everything's going to be fine, right? < /delusional>


text:
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Check it out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DQ4BSUKQsDg
After quite a long time eventually some news from the LACRIMAS home base: The brandnew videoclip ANTIADORE is finally done! Check out the first teaser clip here: http://smarturl.it/19iavd We can´t wait for your comments and really hope you like the new stuff! 2014 is starting with a couple of real highlights – New Headlinerdates in Germany, many Festivals PLUS our first ever tour in Japan and Southkorea confirmed in May 2014! Please come back from time to time in order to be informed about concert dates. Track us at: www.bandsintown.com/LacrimasProfundere and never miss a concert in your town! Our new album "ANTIADORE" and the back catalogue form "Memorandum" to "TGN" is streaming on Spotify here: http://smarturl.it/x8z5kf so follow us, check out the album (and it's physical and digital configurations which you can order) share and of course, tell us what you think! At the close we would like to thank you for fantastic 20 years and to send a fat THANX TO ALL OF YOU - not least for buying our albums and attending our concerts - you make it possible for us to continue making music! Hope to see you soon out there in 2014! Regards, your LACRIMAS PROFUNDERE ANTIADORE WORLDTOUR 2014: 14.03. Berlin, K17 Support: Down Below 15.03. Rostock, Alte Zuckerfabrik 16.03. Hamburg, Logo 25.04. München, Dark Munich Fest 03.05. Nagoya, Live House M.I.D. (JP) 04.05. Tokyo, Seata (JP) 05.05. Seoul, Dream Hall (KR) 09.05. Frankfurt, Nachtleben 10.05. Poperinge, Dubhfest (BE) 07.06. Wave Gotik Treffen, Leipzig 01.08. Wacken, Wacken Open Air 09.08. Hildesheim, M´era Luna 06.09. Deutzen, Nocturnal Culture Night 24.10. Herisau, Metalvetia Festival (CH)
Japan Dates confirmed! We are happy to announce the next dates of our LACRIMAS PROFUNDERE - ANTIADORE WORLD TOUR 2014. We will share the stage with our friends of MasterPlan and Emergency Gate at 2 Festival shows in Nagoya and Tokyo!!! May 3rd - Tokyo May 4th - Nagoya more dates following soon!
We just want to let you know that last week we shot the video to the song you, (our wonderful fans) chose: ANTIADORE. We had a Great Time and we can´t wait to show you the finished Clip! If anyone would like to be at the "Sneak Preview" of the Clip then come to the "ADERLASS Birthday Party" in OBERHAUSEN with us as Live Guests, a glass of Absinth, LACRIMAS Headlinershow and the great "Aftershow Party", all for 11 Euro entrance fee! Follow the link: http://smarturl.it/8uggm9 - A Great Deal for a Great night!
Oliver´s Stage Jacket with Lacrimas Logo print - he wore it on the Antiadore fotoshoot and in the videoclip to "My Release In Pain" - finally arrived. We definitely have to celebrate this!!! Check out this Coupon for the Mode Wichtig Store (Oliver´s Clothing Endorser) and get 20 % discount on all items. When ready to order simply enter the code in the shopping cart and the amount will automatically be subtracted from the total! Just have a look, but attention: this is strictl...y limited and runs only till October 6! Code is: LACRIMAS! Check it out: http://smarturl.it/0i83fe
Our friends of EMP will sell some selected CD´s like "Songs for the last view" including DVD, or "The Grandiose Nowhere" for only 6,99 EUR! Order now!!! BTW, whats your favorite album of Lacrimas Profundere? Follow the link: http://smarturl.it/qtqm8k
The Clip of "My Release In Pain" just cracked the first 60,000 views. Seen it yet? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_paJ0KoERo
TEASER 1 http://smarturl.it/rdnc81 and 2 http://smarturl.it/dyz8yr - SHARE with your friends and ENJOY! Thank you, thank you for your support, your help and your believe in us all these years! YOU ROCK! Everybody who pre-orders or who have already ordered ANTIADORE via Amazon (Germany: http://smarturl.it/r33fqn - UK: http://smarturl.it/p3dc1v -USA: http://smarturl.it/54lo20 - Canada: http://smarturl.it/rkjas6) or -EMP: http://smarturl.it/q3ugr5 ) and who sends us the confirmation to firstname.lastname@example.com will recieve a very special, exclusive brand new Acoustic-Bonustrack! You will be unable to get this track anywhere else. Exclusive for our great Fans, and to celebrate 20 years of Lacrimas Profundere.
23.02.2013 Winter Ends Festival, Werkstatt, Cologne C U out there, Rockers!!!


text:
Will Baltimore become the next Seattle?
That rather rosy possibility has been on the minds of many in recent weeks, after a couple of the area's alternative rock acts unexpectedly entered the limelight. First, there was Bovox Clown, an Annapolis-based quintet that beat out 2,500 other aspiring video stars to win the MTV Beach House Band Search last month. Then, just a few weeks ago, the Baltimore quartet Love Riot became the first American band ever to win the Yamaha-sponsored Vision Quest international band competition.


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Lazio coach Delio Rossi is in hot water, with the Italian Football Federation investigating an allegation he tried to influence the performance of Lecce against his Lazio side in 2005-06.
The FIGC have released a brief statement this evening where they have claimed that Rossi acted against their sporting rules ahead of the League game which they won 1-0.
"Coach Delio Rossi has been charged with trying to ask, without success, Lazio President Lotito to start talks with Lecce directors in a bid to affect the technical performance of the squad ahead of a match on April 30, 2006," a FIGC note read.
It's reported the Federation acted after they received phone tap evidence which was being gathered as part of an investigation into threats made towards unpopular Biancocelesti chief Lotito.


text:
A system and method for non-invasive biomedical optical imaging and spectroscopy with low-level light is described. The technique includes a modulated light source coupled to tissue to introduce excitation light. Fluorescent light emitted in response to the excitation light is detected with a sensor. The AC intensity and phase of the excitation and detected fluorescent light is provided to a processor operatively coupled to the sensor. A processor employs the measured emission kinetics of excitation and fluorescent light to "map" the spatial variation of one or more fluorescence characteristics of the tissue and generate a corresponding image of the tissue via an output device. The fluorescence characteristic may be provided by exogenous contrast agents, endogenous fluorophores, or both. A technique to select or design an exogenous fluorescent contrast agent to improve image contrast is also disclosed.
1. A method, comprising:
introducing an exogenous fluorescent contrast agent into a biologic tissue, the tissue multiply scattering light with a mean time-of-flight, and the agent having a fluorescence lifetime within a factor of about ten of the mean time-of-flight;
exposing the tissue to an excitation light with a predetermined time-varying intensity;
detecting a light emission from the tissue in response to said exposing;
generating an image of the tissue by mapping spatial variation of a level of a fluorescence characteristic of the tissue from the light emission in accordance with a mathematical expression modeling multiple light scattering behavior of the tissue; and
wherein the agent is selected in accordance with a predetermined relationship between degree of image contrast and at least one of fluorescence yield or the fluorescence lifetime.
2. The method of
3. The method of
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11. A method comprising:
selecting a fluorescent contrast agent as a function of a predetermined time-of-flight for a tissue to be imaged in accordance with a mathematical expression modeling the behavior of multiply scattered light traveling through the tissue, the fluorescent contrast agent having a fluorescence lifetime within a factor of ten of the predetermined time-of-flight; and
providing the fluorescent agent for introduction into the tissue.
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This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/367,148, filed Nov. 22, 1999, now abandoned which was the National Stage of International Application No. PCT/US/98/02354, filed Feb. 6, 1998, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/039,318, filed Feb. 7, 1997 and which is a continuation-in-part of Ser. No. 08/702,060, filed Aug. 23, 1996, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,865,754.
The present invention relates to spectroscopic imaging of heterogeneous light scattering tissue, and more particularly, but not exclusively, relates to in vivo imaging by mapping a fluorescence characteristic of the tissue.
The early detection of disease promises a greater efficacy for therapeutic intervention. In recent years, noninvasive techniques have been developed which have improved the ability to provide a reliable and early diagnosis of various afflictions by detecting biochemical changes in the tissue of a patient. For example, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has successfully monitored the relaxation of spin states of paramagnetic nuclei in order to provide biomedical imaging and biochemical spectroscopy of tissues. Unfortunately, the complexity and expense of MRI diagnostics limit its availability—especially as a means of routine monitoring for disease.
Another powerful analytical technique with an increasing number of applications in the biological sciences is fluorescence spectroscopy. Applications of fluorescence spectroscopy include biomedical diagnostics, genetic sequencing, and flow cytometry. As exemplified by U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,421,337 to Richards-Kortum et al. and U.S. Pat. No. 5,452,723 to Wu et al., several investigators have suggested various procedures to differentiate diseased and normal tissues based on fluorescence emissions through noninvasive external measurements or minimally invasive endoscopic measuring techniques. Unfortunately, these procedures generally fail to provide a viable spatial imaging procedure. One reason imaging based on fluorescence has remained elusive is that meaningful relational measurements of fluorescence characteristics from a random, multiply scattering media, such as tissue, are difficult to obtain. For example, fluorescent intensity, which is a function of the fluorescent compound (or fluorophore) concentration or "uptake" is one possible candidate for imaging; however, when this property is used in an optically dense medium, such as a particulate (cell) suspension, powder, or tissue, the local scattering and absorption properties confound measured fluorescent intensities.
Besides intensity, other properties of selected fluorophores such as fluorescent quantum efficiency and lifetime are also sensitive to the local biochemical environment. As used herein, "fluorescent quantum efficiency" means the fractional number of fluorescent photons emitted for each excitation photon absorbed or the fraction of decay events which result in emission of a fluorescent photon. "Fluorescent lifetime," as used herein, is defined as the mean survival time of the activated fluorophore or the mean time between the absorption of an excitation photon and emission of a fluorescent photon. Like intensity, measurement of these fluorescence characteristics is often limited to well-defined in vitro applications in the research laboratory or in flow cytometry where issues such as scattering, absorption, and changing fluorophore concentrations can be controlled or measured. Moreover, these limitations generally preclude meaningful fluorescence-based imaging of hidden tissue heterogeneities, such as tumors or other diseased tissue regions, which cannot be detected by visual inspection.
With the development of techniques to interrogate tissues using fluorescence in the near-infrared red (NIR) wavelength regime, noninvasive detection of diseased tissues located deep within normal tissues may also be possible since NIR excitation and emission light can travel significant distances to and from the tissue-air interface. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,213,105 to Gratton et al. and U.S. Pat. No. 5,353,799 to Chance are cited as further background concerning NIR interrogation. As in the case of MRI, x-ray, CT, and ultrasound imaging modalities, there is a potential to enhance NIR fluorescence imaging techniques with contrast agents. Typically, contrast agents for in vivo imaging have depended upon preferential uptake into diseased tissue to provide the desired imaging enhancement by absorbing the interrogating radiation. The light absorbing tissue provides an enhanced spatial variation in measured intensity of the radiation to improve image contrast. In the case of a fluorescent contrast agent, the intensity of fluorescent light emitted in response to the absorption may provide this intensity variation. Generally, the larger the difference in spatial variation, as artificially imposed by a contrast agent, the more improved the reconstructed image of interior tissues. Nonetheless, the effectiveness of exogenous contrast agents depends greatly upon the selectivity of the agent for the tissue region of interest. Unfortunately, targeted and site specific delivery of drugs and contrast agents has historically been a limiting factor in both therapeutics and diagnostic imaging. Consequently, additional mechanisms for inducing contrast that are not dependent solely upon tissue selectively of the agent would be advantageous.
Thus, a need remains for a technique to noninvasively image multiply scattering tissue based on one or more fluorescence characteristics. Preferably, this technique includes the implementation of exogenous contrast agents with image-enhancing properties beyond preferential absorption of the interrogating radiation. The present invention satisfies this need and provides other advantages.
The present invention relates to spectroscopic imaging of heterogeneous, light scattering materials. Several aspects of the invention are novel, nonobvious, and provide various advantages. While the actual nature of the invention covered herein can only be determined with reference to the claims appended hereto, certain features which are characteristic of the present invention are described briefly as follows.
One feature of the present invention is a technique for imaging a heterogeneous light scattering material. This technique includes exposing the surface of a material to light from a light source and detecting an emission in response. A spatial variation of a fluorescence characteristic of the material is determined as a function of the emission with a processor. The spatial variation may be characterized by a set of values representative of the fluorescence characteristic as a function of position. An image is generated in accordance with the spatial variation that corresponds to the heterogeneous composition of the material. This technique may be applied in vivo to biologic tissue using external or endoscopic instrumentation to detect heterogeneities indicative of disease. The technique may include the introduction of a fluorescent contrast agent into the material. The fluorescence characteristic detected may be fluorescence lifetime, fluorescence quantum efficiency, a fluorophore absorption coefficient, fluorescent yield (a function of fluorescent quantum efficiency and fluorophore absorption), or another fluorescence characteristic known to those skilled in the art.
Another feature includes introducing a fluorescent contrast agent into a biologic tissue. This contrast agent has a predetermined lifetime and the tissue multiply scatters light with a mean time-of-flight between scattering events. The lifetime and the mean time-of-flight are within a factor of about ten of each other. The tissue is exposed to an excitation light with a predetermined time-varying intensity and a light emission is detected from the tissue in response to this exposure. An image of the tissue is generated by mapping spatial variation of a level of a fluorescence characteristic of the tissue from the light emission in accordance with a mathematical relationship modeling multiple light scattering behavior of the tissue.
In a further feature, the agent may be selected in accordance with a predetermined relationship between degree of image contrast and at least one of fluorescence yield or the fluorescence lifetime. Preferably, the lifetime is in a range of about 0.1 to 10 nanoseconds (ns). A more preferred range is 0.5 to 5 ns. A still more preferred range is about 0.2 to 2 ns. A most preferred value for the lifetime is about 1 ns.
An additional feature includes evaluating ability of a number of fluorescent agents to provide image contrast between different tissue types. This evaluation includes determining a relationship between degree of image contrast and at least one of fluorescence lifetime or fluorescence yield of the agent. One of the agents is selected based on the evaluation. The selected agent is provided for introduction into a biologic tissue to enhance imaging performed in accordance with a mathematical expression modeling the behavior of multiply scattered light traveling through the tissue.
In still another feature, a biologic tissue is exposed to a first excitation light and a first emission is detected from the tissue in response to the first excitation light. A fluorescent contrast agent is introduced into the tissue after this detection and the tissue is then exposed to a second excitation light. A second emission is sensed in response to the second excitation light. Data corresponding to the first emission is compared with data corresponding to the second emission to evaluate contrast provided by the agent. Contrast may be determined as a function of at least one of fluorescence lifetime, fluorescence yield, or quantum efficiency. For a frequency domain form of this evaluation, the image contrast may be evaluated in terms of phase contrast or modulation contrast Moreover, the wavelength of the first excitation light may be selected to be generally the same as the wavelength of the fluorescent light emitted by the agent in response to the second excitation light.
Accordingly, it is one object of the present invention to map a fluorescent property of a light scattering material that varies with the heterogeneous composition of the material to generate a corresponding image.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a spectroscopic technique for noninvasively monitoring fluorescent properties of hidden tissue volumes in a living organism and to monitor selected metabolites of an organism in vivo.
Yet another object is to provide a technique to select and design fluorescent contrast agents who improve contrast for photon migration based imaging. This technique may include the selection of contrast enhancing properties that are not solely dependent upon uptake.
Further objects, features, aspects, benefits, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the drawings and description contained herein.
For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications in the described techniques, methods, systems, and devices, and any further applications of the principles of the invention as described herein are contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.
System 110 includes modulated light source 120 to supply an intensity-modulated excitation light of predetermined frequency and wavelength to tissue 100 via optic fiber 123. Preferably, source 120 is a laser diode of conventional design with a modulated output in the 1-500 MHz frequency range and a monochromatic output in the 100 to 1000 nanometer (nm) wavelength range. The specific wavelength is selected to excite a designated fluorophore in tissue 100. Beam splitter 126 may be employed to direct a small portion of the excitation signal to reference sensor 128 for processing purposes.
System 110 also includes detection subsystem 140 which has optic fibers 143 to detect photons emitted from tissue 100 from a number of corresponding detection sites. Subsystem 140 includes one or more emission sensors 148. Detection subsystem 140 also includes an interference filter to obtain a selected emission wavelength corresponding to emission of a designated fluorophore in tissue 100. In one embodiment, subsystem 140 includes a single sensor 148 and the signals from fibers 143 are multiplexed. Preferably, sensors 128, 148 are Photo-multiplier Tubes (PMTs) or photodiode detectors but other sensor varieties, such as image intensifiers and charge-coupled devices, are also contemplated.
Sensors 128, 148 and source 120 are operatively coupled to heterodyne subsystem 130. Subsystem 130 is configured to obtain information about the phase, AC, and DC intensity of light detected with sensor 128 relative to light detected with the sensor 148 using conventional heterodyning techniques. In one embodiment, heterodyne subsystem 130 includes a signal synthesizer phase-locked to the repetition rate of a laser used for source 120. For this embodiment, subsystem 130 includes an amplifier to gain modulate sensors 128, 148 at a harmonic of a laser repetition rate (when a pulsed laser is used) or at the modulation frequency (when a modulated laser diode is used) plus an offset to provide the desired heterodyning. In one variation of this embodiment, an 80 MHz pulsed laser repetition rate is divided down to 10 MHz and input to the synthesizer, and a heterodyning offset of 100 kHz is input to the amplifiers for sensors 128, 148.
Sensors 128, 148 are operatively coupled to processor 160. Processor 160 includes input/control device 162, output device 164, and memory 166. Processor 160 may be an electronic circuit comprised of one or more components. Similarly, processor 160 may be comprised of digital circuitry, analog circuitry, or both. Also, processor 160 may be programmable, an integrated state machine, or a hybrid combination thereof. Preferably, input device 162 is a keyboard or input control of a conventional variety, and output device 166 is a Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) based video display, printer, or other image display system known to those skilled in the art. Memory 166 is preferably of the electronic (e.g. solid state), magnetic, or optical variety of the type readily available for use with electronic controllers or processors. Furthermore, Memory 166 may include an optical disk memory (CD), electromagnetic hard or floppy disk media, or a combination of these.
In stage 214, light source 120 configured according to the selected fluorophore excites tissue 100. In stage 216, the phase, θobs, and log of AC intensity, Mobs, of the emission at each detection site "i" relative to the excitation light from source 120 are determined at the heterodyne (or offset) frequency. For "Di" number of detection sites, the detected or observed phase and AC intensity are indexed by "i" using the following notation: (θobs)i and (Mobs)i, respectively. Processor 160 stores the relative phase and AC intensity information in memory 166.
In stage 218, a two dimensional grid is established for an area of tissue 100 selected for imaging, and a matrix of grid points is established and indexed by "j". A uniform seed value for the fluorescent yield, yj=(ημa
After establishing this initial estimate of the fluorescence characteristics of yield, ημa
In stage 230, phase and relative AC intensity at each detection site "i" is calculated as a function of the initial estimates of yield and lifetime for each grid point j. The calculated phase and intensity are represented at each detection site i as (θm)i and (Mm)i, respectively. The values for (θm)i and (Mm)i are determined using the diffusion equation approximation of the radiative transport equation. The diffusion equation approximation describes the spatial and temporal transport of light in tissues or multiply scattering media. A coupled frequency domain diffusion equation can be used to predict the excitation and emission fluence rates, Φx(r, ω) and Φm(r, ω), respectively, at any location r within the selected grid of tissue 100 via equations (1) and (2):
Because these optical properties are dependent on the wavelength of light, the coefficients generally differ for the excitation light from source 120 (subscript x) and fluorescent emission detected with subsystem 140 (subscript m). The total absorption coefficient at the excitation wavelength, μa
Both diffusion equations (1) and (2) are linear complex elliptic equations that can be solved as boundary value problems for the complex quantities Φx(r, ω) and Φm(r, ω). This solution employs the method of finite differences to create corresponding finite difference equations. These difference equations are utilized to obtain an approximate solution at each grid point, j. This method of solution is described in other contexts in Fulton et al., Multigrid Method for Elliptic Problems, A Review, 114 American Meteorological Society pp. 943-59 (May 1986); and B. W. Pogue et al., Initial Assessment of a Simple System for Frequency Domain Diffuse Optical Tomography, 40 Physics in Medicine and Biology pp. 1709-1729 (1995). One preferred method of performing this solution is with the MUDPACK routines described in Adams, J. C., MUDPACK: Multigrid Portable Fortran Software for the Efficient Solution of Linear Elliptic Partial Differential Equations, 34 App. Math Comp. p. 133 (1989). For the solution of the diffusion equations, it is assumed that Φm,x(r,ω)=0 on the surface 101 of tissue 100 which is known as the zero fluence boundary condition. It should be recognized that other boundary conditions may be selected and the method of solution varied accordingly.
The diffusion equations (1) and (2) may be solved for a complex number for Φm at each grid point, j. The detected signal at the surface is proportional to the normal component of the gradient of the photon fluence. To approximate the signal at detector site "i" located on surface 101 of tissue 100, the Φm value at an internal grid point closest to the site is selected which follows from the relationship that the normal component of the photon fluence gradient is proportional to Φm just inside surface 101. The calculated phase-lag, θm, and the log of AC intensity, Mm, at the detection sites "Di" are calculated from the imaginary and real parts of the complex Φm value with respect to the phase and the AC intensity of source 120.
The diffusion equations (1) and (2) provide insight into the sensitivity of changing the fluorescent optical properties of tissue 100 on θm and Mm measured at the detector sites i. This insight results from a series of calculations while fixing various parameters of the diffusion equations (1) and (2). These calculations assume circular tissue phantom 300 with an embedded, heterogeneity 302 hidden in phantom background 303 as illustrated in
In order to evaluate the influence of ημa
In order to evaluate the influence of τ, θm, and Mm were calculated at each detection site D1-D20 as the values of τ in the heterogeneity varied from 10−1 ns to 103 ns and the value of τ in the background was held at 1 ns. The background ημa
Referring back to
After the comparison of stage 240 is performed by calculating the merit functions χμ 2 and χτ 2 control flows to conditional 250 to test whether the comparison of the observed values, (θobs)i and (Mobs)i, to the calculated values (θm)i and (Mm)i via the merit functions meets a selected convergence criteria. This criteria corresponds to the degree of tolerable error in determining the yield and lifetime values. For one embodiment, convergence is achieved when any of the following three quantities, (i) χ2, (ii) change in χ2 in successive iterations of loop 220, or (iii) relative change in χ2 in successive iterations of loop 220 is less than a predetermined threshold value of 1.0×10−5. In other embodiments a different comparison calculation and associated conditional may be employed as would occur to one skilled in the art. If conditional 250 is satisfied, control flows to stage 270 and loop 220 is exited; however, if the criteria is not satisfied, execution of loop 220 continues in stage 260.
In stage 260, the yield, (y)j=(ημa
If the convergence criteria is satisfied in conditional 250, then estimation of yield and lifetime for the grid points has reached an acceptable minimum and control flows to stage 270. In stage 270 an image signal is generated by processor 160 from the spatial variation of the yield and/or lifetime fluorescence characteristics. This image signal is sent to output device 164, which displays an image in response. Because the fluorescence characteristics of yield and lifetime typically vary with the biologic environment of the fluorophore, this image is generally indicative of tissue variation and offers the capability to detect heterogeneities 102, 103. For example, laser diodes capable of supplying Near infrared (NIR) light that can penetrate tissue several centimeters, and fluorescent contrast agents responsive to NIR light may be used to provide a viable imaging system. In one embodiment, this to system is adapted for use with an endoscope.
Besides yield and lifetime, the spatial variation of other fluorescence characteristics useful to distinguish diseased tissues may be mapped using the diffusion equations (1) and (2). Such alternative fluorescence characteristics include, but are not limited to, quantum efficiency η and/or fluorescent absorption coefficient μa
It should be appreciated that imaging in accordance with the present invention, such as process 210, includes exposing biologic tissue at the tissue-air interface to an excitation light and detecting the light which has propagated to a detector located some distance away from the source on the air-tissue interface. The time-dependent propagation characteristics of multiply scattered light emitted in response to this exposure are measured. As described in connection with process 210, an intensity-modulated light source may be employed for frequency-domain measurements. The propagating wave of intensity-modulated light is amplitude attenuated and phase-shifted relative to the excitation light owing to the spatial distribution of fluorescence properties. From exterior measurements of phase-delay and amplitude modulation, interior fluorescence properties are determined using a mathematical relationship that models the multiple light scattering behavior of the tissue, such as the diffusion equations (1) and (2). These fluorescence properties may be mapped to provide a corresponding interior image of the tissue, facilitating the identification of hidden heterogeneities.
In an alternative embodiment, measurements may be made in the time domain. For this embodiment, a pulse of light may be launched at the air-tissue interface, which is broadened during its propagation in tissues due to the spatial variation of fluorescence properties within the tissue. The broadened pulse emitted from the air-tissue interface is measured. For this embodiment, the diffusion equation in the time-domain form, or such other mathematical relationship characterizing multiply scattered light propagation through the tissue may be utilized to calculate the fluorescence characteristics as would occur to those skilled in the art. These characteristics may then be mapped to generate a corresponding image in the manner described in connection with process 210.
Both the frequency and time domain approaches account for the time propagation of light through the tissue due to multiple scattering events. For a given photon, the travel time through a multiple scattering media increases with the number of collisions or "scattering events", which corresponds to a longer scattering path. This travel time is known as the "time-of-flight". Typically, time-of-flight is on the order of a fraction of a nanosecond to a few nanoseconds in biologic tissue. For the usual case of many photons each traveling along different scattering paths, a mean "time-of-flight" of the photons may be determined from the frequency or time domain measurements. These time-based measurements are utilized with the corresponding mathematical model to map the fluorescence characteristics.
The fluorescence characteristic map provides an image of tissue that may be based only on intrinsic fluorophores in the tissue or enhanced by introduction of a contrast agent that is selective to tissue volumes of interest. This contrast agent may absorb radiation as in the case of contrast agents for x-ray and CT imaging to provide a corresponding darkening of the image regions for the tissue volumes of interest. Unfortunately, the contrast provided through selective absorption is limited. Accordingly, in another embodiment of the present invention, a technique to select exogenous contrast agents which augment the conventional contrast mechanisms is provided. It has been discovered that fluorescence properties that change with the local biochemical environment often provide greater contrast for reconstruction of diseased tissue volumes that can be afforded by absorption-based contrast alone. Among the properties that offer this local environment contrast mechanism, are fluorescence lifetime τ, i.e., the mean time between the absorption of an excitation photon and the emission of a fluorescent photon; fluorescence quantum efficiency η, i.e., the number of fluorescent photons emitted per excitation photon absorbed; and fluorescence quantum yield y.
It has been discovered that fluorophore contrast agents having a fluorescence lifetime within an order of magnitude—or factor of ten (10)—of photon "time-of-flights" of the tissue being interrogated are surprisingly advantageous in providing contrast for photon migration imaging. One way of utilizing this surprising advantage is to select an agent with a fluorescence lifetime within a factor of ten (10) of the mean time-of-flight predicted for the tissue to be imaged. Typically, by applying this principle, a preferred range for the contrast agent lifetime of about 0.1 to 10 ns results. More preferably, the range for the fluorescence lifetime of the contrast agent is within a range of about 0.5 to 5 ns. A still more preferred range for fluorescence lifetime of the agent is about 0.2 to about 2 ns. A most preferred value for the lifetime is about 1 ns.
It has also been discovered that fluorescence characteristics may influence the resolution of measurements of the detected light emission. For example, in the frequency domain, it has been found that the amplitude of the intensity-modulated fluorescent light emanating from a hidden heterogeneity containing the agent generally increases with quantum yield y or quantum efficiency η. Further, as fluorescence lifetime τ within the heterogeneity increases relative to its surroundings, the phase contrast increases. Conversely, the amplitude of the detected intensity-modulated light decreases with increasing fluorescence lifetime τ within the heterogeneity relative to its surroundings. Through these discoveries, a fluorescent agent may be selected or formulated to provide a desired measurement resolution and fluorescence lifetime contrast suitable for photon migration interrogation of a heterogeneous arrangement of tissue. These discoveries are further described in connection with Examples 4-7 at the end of this description.
Generally, as Examples 4-7 illustrate, the selection or formulation of a suitable contrast agent is performed by determining the relationship between image contrast and fluorescent properties such as lifetime, yield, or quantum efficiency a function of the location of a heterogeneity selective to the given contrast agent. These relationships may be evaluated for a number of different agents to select a preferred agent for a given contrast problem. For frequency domain based evaluation, image contrast may be characterized in terms of phase shift variation, modulation variation, or both. Furthermore, the image contrast may be enhanced by measuring the response of a sample to a first excitation light without the agent to provide a baseline (the "absence" case), and then measuring the response to a second excitation light after introduction of the agent (the "presence" case). Data corresponding to these two responses is compared to evaluate the contrast capability of agent. The first excitation light wavelength may be selected to stimulate intrinsic fluorescent response of the tissue at the same wavelength expected to stimulate agent fluorescence. Alternatively, the first excitation light wavelength may be the same as for the fluorescent light emitted by the agent to enhance separation of intrinsic tissue fluorescence from fluorescence of the agent. Also, multiple comparisons may be performed using different wavelengths to better evaluate the influence of the contrast agent.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the photon fluence equation and Jacobian estimation process is adapted to determine a map of a designated fluorophore uptake concentration. For this embodiment, a first map of chromophore adsorption coefficients μa
After generating the first map, the designated fluorescent contrast agent is introduced, and the total adsorption coefficient μa
Another alternative embodiment measures the emission responsive to each of a number of light source modulation frequencies f. The total number of different frequencies employed is designated Mf. To obtain this additional data, an iteration of loop 220 is performed for each frequency f indexed to m. The number of sources, Sk and detection sites Di are indexed to k and i, respectively. This additional data may be used to enhance imaging results obtained with system 110 or to permit reduction of the number of detection sites or excitation source sites in the evaluation. A representative merit function corresponding to this additional data is given in equation (12) as follows:
Following each acquired image, a phase delay between the image intensifier 430 and the laser diode 424 is induced by stepping the phase of the image intensifier 430 to values between 0 and 360 degrees with the frequency synthesizer 452 under the control of processor 460. Since the gain modulation of image intensifier 430 and laser diode 424 occurs at the same frequency, homodyning results in a steady phosphorescent image on intensifier 430, which is dependent upon phase. Preferably, control between synthesizer 452 and processor 460 is obtained by a conventional GPIB interface. Images from the phosphorescent screen of the image intensifier 430 are then gathered at each phase delay. The incremental phase delayed images are then used to generate a map of phase-shift and intensity modulation ratio between the excitation and emitted light from phantom 400. By applying interference or appropriate optical filters, the emission light may be selectively separated from the excitation light and measured. Camera 434 output may be processed by processor 460 using process 210.
In other embodiments, a wide area illumination source is preferred to provide a larger, more uniform front illumination in a reflective geometry. This illumination approach facilitates faster imaging of multiple sights and a more natural physical correlation between photon migration images and pathology. Also, a camera which has a tapered fiber optic coupler from the image intensifier to the CCD array is envisioned to increase the efficiency of light coupling from the intensifier to the CCD array and reduce the physical size and weight of the imager.
The present invention will be further described with reference to the following specific Examples 1-8. It will be understood that these examples are illustrative and not restrictive in nature. Examples 1-4 involve the computer simulation of the process 210. Simulations of this kind, including the simulation of tissue, are an acceptable means of demonstrating fluorescent spectroscopic imaging performance to those skilled in the art. Examples 1-3 use simulated values obtained by solving the diffusion equations (1) and (2) for θm and Mm under the conditions of table 2 as follows:
The examples simulate tissue phantom 300 of
Example 1 reconstructs fluorescent yield and lifetime with no absorption due to non-fluorescing chromophores. To simulate the experimental data for this example, the fluorescent yield, (ημa
The average values of ημa
The location of heterogeneity 302 was identified as consisting of all the grid points with ημa
Example 2 reconstructs fluorescent yield and lifetime with a simulated chromophore absorption configured to mimic tissue. The same hidden heterogeneity as well as optical parameters and simulation equipment were used as described in Example 1 except that a uniform background chromophore absorption coefficient, μa
Example 3 simulated two hidden heterogeneities in the tissue phantom (not shown in
A 33×33 grid was employed instead of a 17×17 grid. An image corresponding to the mapping of yield is depicted in
Example 4 demonstrates the unexpected advantage of utilizing a fluorescent contrast agent with a fluorescence lifetime within an order of magnitude of the mean time-of-flight of the interrogating photons. This example compares by computational simulation, the contrast offered by a phosphorescent agent with a lifetime of about 1 millisecond to a fluorescent agent with a lifetime of about 1 nanosecond. Referring to
The conclusions of the simulation of Example 4 have further been empirically demonstrated by the experimentation of Example 5. The experimental equipment set-up for Example 5 is comparable to system 110. A tissue phantom is prepared by filling a cylindrical Plexiglas container having a 20 cm diameter and a 30.5 cm height with a 0.5% Intralipid solution (supplied by Kabi Parmacia, Clayton, N.C.). A heterogeneity is provided by placing a cylindrical glass container with a 9 mm inner diameter in the Plexiglas container and filling the glass cylinder with the intralipid solution and a contrast agent. The position of the heterogeneity within the Plexiglas container is adjusted with an x-y translation stage model number PMC200-P supplied by Newport of Irvine, Calif.
Example 5 experimentally confirms the phase contrast simulated in Example 4 by comparing phase contrast Δθ with a Ru(bpy)3 2+ phosphorescent contrast agent in the inner glass container (
The experimental equipment set-up for Example 6 is comparable to Example 5, except a single source and a single detection point were utilized. The source and detector were placed along the circumference a few degrees apart and the inner container was generally positioned along the midline defined between the source and detector. The x-y stage was used to adjust the position of the inner container along this midline to observe corresponding changes in phase shift θ and amplitude.
In Example 6, the response of two different fluorescent contrast agents ICG and 3-3′-Diethylthiatricarbocyanine Iodide (designated "DTTCI" herein and supplied by ACROS Organics, Fairlawn, N.J.) to an intensity-modulated excitation light having a wavelength of about 780 nm was detected. The excitation light was modulated at 80 MHz and 160 MHz in different trials corresponding to lines with different symbol shapes. ICG is an agent approved for hepatic and retinal diagnostic testing with a measured lifetime of about 0.58 nanoseconds and DTTCI is a common laser dye with lifetime of about 1.18 nanosecond.
The phase shift and modulation ratio of the tissue phantom in the absence of the heterogeneity was measured to provide the "absence" case needed to calculate phase contrast Δθ and modulation contrast ΔM. Next, an ICG contrast agent was prepared by adding about a 2.0 μmole ICG concentration to a 0.5% intralipid solution in the inner container. The ICG sample was then exposed to excitation light from the source and the response detected. This detection included measurement of absorption at a wavelength of 780 nm and fluorescence at 830 nm. The resulting phase contrast Δθ at the absorption wavelength (open symbols) and for fluorescence wavelength (closed symbols) for the ICG sample was plotted on the vertical axis of the graph provided in
After ICG sample was tested, a 4.2 μmole concentration of the DTTCI contrast agent was added to the 0.5% intralipid solution in the inner container to provide a DTTCI sample. The different concentration of the ICG and DTTCI contrast agents were selected to provide a fluorescent cross-section that is generally the same for both the ICG and DTTCI samples. The resulting phase contrast Δθ at the absorption wavelength (open symbols) and at the fluorescence wavelength (closed symbols) for the DTTCI sample is plotted on the vertical axis of the graph provided in
For both samples, the fluorescence decay process is single exponential, showing one lifetime, but the analysis and approach can be extended to dyes and contrast agents with more than one lifetime. Upon comparing the fluorescent phase and amplitude modulation generated by the two fluorescent contrast agents, the impact of fluorescence lifetime τ over absorption may readily be observed. Indeed, it has been found that substantial contrast is present when the uptake is only 10:1 over the surroundings or background.
For Example 7, a phantom tissue is prepared by placing a tissue-mimicking Intralipid solution in a Plexiglas container. The excitation light source transilluminates the tissue phantom from the rear along a straight-line distance of about 8 centimeters. An image intensifier/CCD detection arrangement was utilized to detect the response. The experimental set-up for Example 7 was comparable to system 410 illustrated in
Embedded within the middle of the Plexiglas container tissue phantom were two micromolar intralipid solutions of 0.5 ml in separate containers each having a different fluorescent contrast agent. One vessel included an ICG contrast agent and the other vessel included a DTTCI contrast agent. Measurements of the fluorescent phase-shift, AC amplitude, DC intensity, and modulation (AC/DC) were conducted across the front of the phantom tissue in response to a 100 MHz modulated excitation light at 780 nm.
Example 8 is a live tissue study of mammary tissue from a dog, Sugar Limburg, which was a miniature poodle (age 10 years and weight 12.5 lbs.). An in vivo image of the right fifth mammary glad was taken after an in vivo injection with 1.3 cc of a 5% concentration of ICG fluorescent contrast agent. Interrogation was performed with an experimental set-up comparable to Example 7, with an excitation light wavelength of 789 nm and detection at a 830 nm wavelength. The modulation frequency was 100 MHz.
A frozen section of the right fifth mammary revealed two dark spots approximately 1 cm deep from the tissue surface which were histologically classified as reactive regional inguinal lymph nodes with no evidence of metastatic spread. The remaining tissue was classified as lobular hyperplasia with no evidence of tumor.
All publications and patent applications cited in this specification are herein incorporated by reference as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference; including U.S. Patent Application Ser. Nos. 60/039,318 filed 7 Feb. 1997 and Ser. No. 08/702,060 filed 23 Aug. 1996. While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the preferred embodiments have been shown and that all modifications that come within the spirit of the invention are desired to be protected.
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text:
Kiwanis Club awards better grades
The Kiwanis Club of Greater Anaheim participated in awards assemblies at all 24 schools in the Anaheim City School District with more than 4,000 BUG (Bring Up Grades) Awards. Linda Sheehan and Joe Carter, co-chairs of the committee, sought teacher recommendation for the awards. Kiwanis members Frank Barry, Will Cornell, Susan Faessel, June Glenn, Tom Kieviet, Donna Merritt, Shirley McCracken, John Peterson and Mariellen Sereno assisted in the presentation of certificates.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Anaheim meets for breakfast at 7 a.m. Thursdays at the Clarion Hotel. For information, contact Shirley McCracken at email@example.com
Libraries add hours
The Anaheim Library will open for additional hours at two Anaheim branch libraries. Residents will have additional access to print, audio, video and web-based materials and the Summer Reading Fun program at Central Branch Library, 500 W. Broadway, and Canyon Hills Branch Library, 400 Scout Trail.
Central will open one hour earlier at 10 a.m., closing at 8 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays. Canyon Hills new hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. Canyon Hills will also present Teddy Pears' Picnic at 11 a.m. on July 13.
Disney alum gather for breakfast
The annual ABC Breakfast is planned for July 13 at Mama Cozza's at 8 a.m. The breakfast is open to all active and retired Disney cast members. There is a buffet breakfast, 50-50 drawing and the group is collecting items for returning servicemen. Cost in $15. Additional information, contact Bob Penfield at email@example.com
Circus back in Anaheim
"Built To Amaze," the latest Ringling Bros & Barnum & Bailey Circus show, is July 26 through Aug. 4 at the Honda Center in Anaheim.
This year's theme represents what it takes to build the "Greatest Show on Earth." Artists and athletes from all over the world will be there. In addition to the circus show, there are two pre-shows – a chance to see the animals up close and a chance to meet the performers on the arena floor. Call 800-745-3000 or visit the Honda Center box office for tickets. For more information, go to ringling.com.
Quartermania is coming up
On July 20, Quartermania is coming to Anaheim. Anaheim Chamber Women's Division is hosting the quarter auction fundraiser at Anaheim United Methodist Church, 1000 S. State College Blvd., from 10:30 a.m. (preview shopping) through 2 p.m.
There will be a light lunch. Admission is $15. Up to 80 items are part of the quarter auction, and there will be eight opportunity prizes, too. Proceeds benefit the Women's Division Scholarship Program. For reservations or information, call Reon Boydstun Howard at 714-774-0555 or email email@example.com
'Hairspray' coming to local stage


text:
Yu'lon Kite
102,738pages on
this wiki
this wiki
| This article or section is a pet stub. You can help expand it by editing it.
A creature or mob that can become a bound to a player in some fashion.
- Yu'lon Kite
- Item Level 1
- Use: Teaches you how to summon and dismiss this companion.
Yu'lon Kie summons a Flying Battle pet Companion of the same name. It can be crafted by players with level 600 Inscription. It cannot battle.


text:
Due to vendor restrictions this product does not qualify for this offer.
World's Largest Aftermarket Motorcycle Parts and Accessories Superstore!
Input the part number and quantity to add a part directly to your cart.
Due to vendor restrictions this product does not qualify for this offer.
This product fits a variety of motorcycles. Please select yours so we can find the right part and guarantee fitment. Select A Motorcycle
Everyday Low Price: $153.95
Gold Club Price: What's This? $138.56
J&P Part: 602-200
This item qualifies for free ground shipping
This product was proudly made in the USA
Belt Tooth Pitch: 14 mm
Belt Width: 1-1/8"
Kevlar: No
Manufacturer Part Number: BDL-SPC-132-118
Material: High Grade Composite Rubber and Nylon
Number of Teeth: 132
Sold in Units: Each
This product fits a variety of motorcycles. Please select yours so we can find the right part and guarantee fitment. Select A Motorcycle
|Dyna Low Rider EFI FXDLI : 2006
|Dyna Super Glide 35th Anniversary EFI FXDI35 : 2006
|Dyna Super Glide EFI FXDI : 2006
|Dyna Wide Glide EFI FXDWGI : 2006
great deal
Product is factory length as stated and is made with Goodyear rubber so it will hopefully hold up better than the weak stock belt I snapped with my modded motor.
everything was OK...my next purchase be with you...tnks a lot!!!
Great belt. This is a Goodyear belt and should last just about forever. Top quality. Fast shipping. Will definitely recommend this to others that need a top quality belt.
It worked and fit perfectly
no complaints here worked great good quality
had no problem in staling it was a perfect fit on my 02 sportster 1200 and very fast shipping got it in 3 days thanks j&p
The belt came quick all the way to Florida. Perfect fit and cheeper than anywhere else, Thanks.
Excellent service ...I buy all my parts from jp cycle never have had a problem
Nice belt works great on bike
It is a very strong belt and it came at a very good price.
Product was delivered in condition as promised and is the right fit. I would buy again.
I am satisfied with the purchase, tightly packed and arrived in perfect condition, thanks.
The belt is very good quality.
let see how long it last ... looks very cheatly made ... has all kinds of instructions that if it is bent or twisted it will break, not to reassurring ...
Using for a special custon application. Works great!
Call Us 24/7 1-800-318-4823


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Head Youtek IG Prestige Midplus
I demoed IG Prestige MP today, and wow, it is a great racquet! I previously played with Wilson Blx 6.1 95 (18X20), PDR 2012, and Pure Storm Tour GT, and I think IG Prestige MP, compared to them, is very smooth, plush, yet solid and stable. Also, it is very easy to swing and the sweet spot seems to be large to me.
This Prestige MP is strung with Xcel 16, and I think tension is 48lb. I did not have any problem with control today and the feel was very nice. Yet, I did not rip the ball today, since I thought this flexible frame with multi might be too powerful.
If you have used IG Prestige MP, what is the best set up for this? I prefer multi to poly, but hybrid is fine to me. Sweetspot seems to be pretty large with Xcel 16 at 48lb, so I think I need less power and more control. Maybe just a little bit higher tension? Any advice will be welcomed!
Thank you in advance!
I've only tested it and its a great racket, my second favorite (to what I use now). I would say a thin gauged poly would be the best. Maybe the 17l hexablade if you want control and possibly more spin.
I usually string my rackets pretty tight so I'd be the wrong person to ask about tension, its really about what you prefer the Prestige isnt SO low powered that you can't string it between 55-58. The low gage offers more pop and spin, and on the tight string bed I think a thinner control oriented poly keeps the control of the prestige but adds monster spin. Hexablade 17l came to mind because its a softer, control oriented spinny string. The weisscannon strings would be great too.
Any other recommendations???
Yeah, try the Pro. I demoed both and settled on the Pro. Haven't looked back.
I also really liked the mp. I would go with a little higher tension.
I got Tecnifibre Black Code 1.24 @53 and I'm happy with it.
I use TF X1 17 main/Babolat Revenge 17 crosses strung at ~52/49lbs.
One quick question: I have not used a hybrid set up for a long time, maybe used a week or so, and I do not know exactly what difference main/cross and cross/main variation makes. What I mean is if the main is gut/multi and the cross is poly, is it really different from the poly main and gut/multi cross? And I saw some posts saying that poly main is cutting gut/multi cross really fast, so I want to know about it too. If I put gut/multi for main and poly for cross, then the poly cross tension should be higher than main because poly is stiffer?
Thank you in advance!
I demoed the IGPMP with Sonic Pro at 55lbs and found it under powered but loved the frame so I bought one and have VS Touch 16 mains and RPM Blast 17 at 57/53 and it is a beast - a bit over powered but fantastic feel and touch.
When its time for a restring I'm going to bump the poly cross tension up to get some of the control back.
As for tension, I follow the line that as the poly is stiffer you should string it lower, which is the general rule if using a full bed of poly. However, when it comes to professionals, what they believe is important for them. I've seen same tensions on hybrids and lower tensions on crosses even where its a multi.
Big Hitter Blue Rough hybrid at 50 lbs.
I too love the Prestige MP. I had one briefly over the summer and erroneously thought I needed more power, so I've been using the Rad MP ever since. But I've since wizened up and will be switching back to the Prestige MP. The rad MP is fine, but its just too powerful for me. Even with a poly setup and extreme spin, balls are still sailing long.
As surprising as it may seem, I tried a pro with a poly vs a multi and the multi actually felt like it had more control than even the mp.
Full poly at 54.
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Live from the House of Blues
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
|This article does not cite any references or sources. (December 2009)
Live from the House of Blues was a 26 part (one hour each) series on TBS that started airing in January 1995 at 12:05 AM Eastern Time on Friday nights and repeated at the same time on Saturday nights. The timeslot was the same timeslot that another TBS music program, Night Tracks once occupied from 1983 to 1992. It featured live music and was fronted by a rotation of celebrity hosts. The show was produced by Michael Murphy Productions in conjunction with the House of Blues franchise. The program ended its run about a year later.
|This article about a non-fiction television series is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it.


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You Can Book Hotel Rooms Through the Yelp App and Site with Hipmunk
Starting today, Yelp users can book hotels through the Hipmunk travel booking service without ever leaving the Yelp app or web site. »
Starting today, Yelp users can book hotels through the Hipmunk travel booking service without ever leaving the Yelp app or web site. »
When you spot a great accommodations rate, you may be tempted to jump on it. Airfare Watchdog warns to watch out for taxes and fees that can inflate that rate. »
If you're looking to save some money on your holiday travel arrangements, we definitely suggest shopping around and doing your homework, but the folks at The Simple Dollar have another suggestion: pick up the phone and call the hotel manager where you want to stay. Often they have the power to authorize discount rates. »
It can be tricky to book a hotel room if you've never seen the hotel, and online hotel reviews can be spotty and arguably reliable at best. Simplehoney is a new hotel booking service that promises to take the mystery out of finding a hotel you'll love to stay in. Think of it like Pandora for hotel booking—you tell it… »
Flying these days is an uncomfortable, difficult process, but if you're lucky enough to snag a flight with on-board Wi-Fi, or individual monitors in the back of every seat so you can watch TV or listen to music while you're in the air, it can be a bit easier. Flight search and booking site CheapAir updated its search… »
If you're thinking about getting away from home for a little vacation, or you're planning a big summer trip for you and the family, odds are you're not interested in breaking the bank in the process. Let's look at the five sites you voted as the best to find bargains when shopping for cheap airfare, discounted hotel… »


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Loved the historic atmosphere, antiques, old pianos. Music made for a great atmosphere. Service was very attentive and cheerful. Hotel bar and restaurant also good options.
Thin walls, loud neighbors
The hospitality was awesome. It was very well kept.
The extremely small bathroom. It was hard not to drop things in the toilet it was so tight. Also, because this is a historical building you can hear everything through the walls and windows. I would say this is a great place to stay overall, you just have to understand the age of the building.
Room was very nice. Did a king suite. Staff was very courteous. Facility was clean. Nice pool. Ok jacuzzi.
Room wasn't ready till after 6 pm.
Restaurant choice was the very expensive one or the burgers / hot dogs casino. Needs a mid level place. We don't all want to shell out $50 or $60 per person for dinner or eat in a smoke filled casino.
Rooms were beautiful, view was outstanding, spa quality toiletries in bathroom.
Parking could be difficult because of next door casino, paper products in bathroom were very poor quality.
Very clean and attentive.
Location is excellent - 10 minutes away from everything in Prescott.
Breakfast included more items than you normally get from other chain. Will definitely return.
Very good and varied complimentary breakfast in the morning; certainly better than most hotels provide.
Extremely loud water (pipe) noise in our unit when toilet flushed in another room.
Staff, breakfast. Clean room.
Felt more busines orientated.
best breakfast we've seen for a long time. great value for the $$
The price was great and wifi was free. The room was clean and staff was friendly. It was a straight shot to historic downtown or other shopping such as Wal-Mart, Costco, Target & Home Depot.
The lighting in our room was miserable; it consisted of lamps and no overhead so it was very difficult to read the maps & brochures we'd collected, unless we opened the curtains. The room did not have a coffeepot or hair dryer. The parking lot had just been redone, and all the old asphalt was in the empty swimming pool. It's a little hard to figure out how to drive in to the entrance if coming from the east; easier to go past the hotel & turn around further on & come back & make a right turn into the hotel drive.
Breakfast was oK
The hot tub was closed for the season. I was very disappointed this information was not disclosed to us on the reservation website. Secondly, the room ceilings had several cracks. We decided that this will be the last time staying at Confort Inn.
I liked how close it was to town 1.4 miles and it was quiet all night and most of the day
It seemed like several people lived there... Some scary people at that! Next time because of that I might stay at a more upscale rather than cheap!
Great size rooms. Clean n comfortable. Walking distance down town. Would definitely stay here again.
STAFF throughout - dining room to front desk - all super friendly and helpful. The breakfast lady walked around welcoming guests to the buffet and offered suggestions. The reception lady helped direct my grandson and me to the local library. Yes, yes, I know...they were doing their jobs. But they stepped up each day to say Hello.
Only wish I had had more time to enjoy the POOL!!!
The rooms have just been remodeled. The Pic on line does not do it justice. The room was very clean, however, you can smell stale smoke in a smokeless room. The mattress was acceptable
No hair dryer or shampoo etc. But it tells you that on their web.
I would go back .
As you might guess at this price point there are a few undesirables. Dogs barking and kids running wild. When we did go to bed at 10:30p it did quiet down. We turned the fan on to coverup any future outside noise. The pool is dirty maybe because it has not warmed up yet.
Location, location, location. Once you're here you won't need a car. Albertson's, Starbucks right across the street, and of course downtown restaurants and bars just a few blocks away. For being right on a busy street, it was quiet enough on Memorial day weekend for us old farts.
Our room was tiny and dark, but very clean and nice in a funky kind of way.
Very nicely decorated vintage motel, short walk from restaurants/bars in downtown Prescott.
Small room, tiny bathroom, right off of busy street in Prescott, room door didn't do a good job of blocking outside noise. Note, not all room doors directly face the street, but mine did.
Very clean and loved the pool area.
Breakfast eggs and sausage not hot. Staff states the flame went out "again". Bath towels like sand paper.
we liked the breakfast and also enjoyed the whirlpool very much
We enjoyed our weekly stay very much and would recommend LaQuinta to our friends and family
Our stay was wonderful. Friendly and helpful staff. Very clean and quiet. We'll be back!
This was the best hotel I have ever stayed in. It was so charming and had a Mediterranean feel. The bed was so comfortable and the breakfast was great! I would highly recommend this over any chain hotel!!
Good location, very friendly women at check-in, did a nice job of getting us settled in. Nice shower and water pressure, always a concern in older locations.
Room was designed before microwaves and refrigerators became standard, things were a bit awkward--a minor issue.
Clean & affordable.
Too far from downtown.
The parking lot was dirty, beer bottles, cigarette buds and trash. The shower curtain was full of mildew. Sink was clogged, took a long time for water to drain. The carpet had sun flower seeds all over, so you know it hadn't been vacuumed.
The location was in a nice area and close to the other places around town that we needed to access during our visit.
Our room was right by the ice machine and had very thin walls so we could hear people laughing and getting ice all night. I think there were people hanging out by the lobby outside laughing too so we didn't get a good night's rest because of all the noise
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Djokovic into Abu Dhabi final
ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (AP)
Top-ranked Novak Djokovic routed David Ferrer 6-0, 6-3 on Friday to reach the final of the World Tennis Championship exhibition tournament.
Djokovic will face Spain's Nicolas Almagro in the final. A last-minute replacement for Rafael Nadal, Almagro rallied from a set down to beat Janko Tipsarevic 6-2, 7-6 (3), 6-2 in the second semifinal.
Looking for a strong start to the 2013 season, Djokovic wrapped up the first set in only 26 minutes. He struggled early on in the second as Ferrer broke the defending champion to go up 2-1.
But Djokovic broke back courtesy of a delicate drop shot and several crisp winners to make it 2-2. He then broke the fifth-ranked Spaniard a second time to go up 4-2 on the way to an easy victory.
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